The Plumb Line | #64 | 06/21/2025

Written in 1746 during the First Great Awakening, 'Religious Affections' is a treatise by Jonathan Edwards that aims to discern the true signs of Christian conversion. Edwards argues that true religion consists largely in holy affections, emphasizing the role of emotions and the inclination of the will in religious experience. He distinguishes between legitimate and illegitimate emotions, providing twelve signs that are uncertain and twelve true signs of gracious affections. The book is a comprehensive guide to understanding the marks of a saving work of the Holy Spirit and the importance of testing one's faith to ensure it is genuine.

In Love Wins, Rob Bell tackles one of the most contentious issues in faith – the nature of hell and the afterlife. With a hopeful and insightful message, Bell argues that eternal life does not start after death but begins right now. He challenges traditional views of hell, suggesting it is more often a self-created prison on earth rather than a literal lake of fire. The book emphasizes that heaven is not just a future reward but something to be worked towards every day. Bell's central thesis is that God's love is so profound that everyone who wants to spend eternity with God can and will, even if they find the right path after death.

John Owen's "The Mortification of Sin" is a classic work of Puritan theology that delves into the spiritual battle against sin. Owen masterfully explores the nature of sin, its pervasive influence, and the believer's ongoing struggle against it. He emphasizes the necessity of relying on the Holy Spirit for victory over sin, highlighting the importance of spiritual disciplines and the transformative power of God's grace. The book offers practical guidance and profound theological insights for Christians seeking to live a life of holiness and obedience to God. It's a timeless resource for understanding the Christian life as a spiritual warfare and the role of the Holy Spirit in overcoming sin. The book's enduring relevance lies in its clear articulation of the ongoing struggle between the flesh and the Spirit, a struggle that resonates deeply with believers across centuries.

This book tells the story of U Thant, the first UN secretary-general of color, who played a crucial role in preventing nuclear war during the Cuban Missile Crisis and mediated conflicts in various regions. Drawing on newly declassified documents, Thant Myint-U reveals U Thant's bold interventions and his commitment to global peace, environmental protection, and justice for newly decolonized nations.