The Magazine Podcast

This week we read some words of comfort and counsel suitable for all weary believers, and especially for pastors who feel stretched beyond what they can bear.    Featured Resources:  – C. H. Spurgeon, 'The Minister's Fainting Fits,' in The Minister's Self-Watch & The Minister's Fainting Fits (booklet), (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2025), p. 40–42. This lecture also appears in Lectures to My Students by the same author.  – Robert Murray M'Cheyne, 'To the Rev. Dan. Edwards' in Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1966, 2024), p. 282.  – Robert Murray M'Cheyne, 'To the Rev. W. C. Burns' in Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1966, 2024), p. 216.  – Robert Murray M'Cheyne, 'To the Rev. W. C. Burns' in Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1966, 2024), p. 289.    New from the Banner:  The Minister's Self-Watch and The Minister's Fainting Fits (booklet)   Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Explore the life of Arnold Dallimore, a devoted pastor and biographer, whose struggles in writing key Christian biographies shaped his legacy. Discover the resilience of his marriage to May amidst financial and mental health challenges during World War II. Delve into the solitary journey of crafting George Whitefield's biography, filled with obstacles and transformative mentorship from Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones. Experience the dedication and impact of Dallimore's work and its lasting influence on the Christian community.

Delve into the influential book that sheds light on the teachings of Charles Spurgeon and the doctrines of grace. Discover personal testimonies that reveal its impact on readers and pastors alike. Explore Spurgeon’s theological legacy and the controversies he faced, particularly his views on baptism and the downgrade movement. The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding key theological concepts, encouraging listeners to engage deeply with the material to enrich their faith journey.

Iain H. Murray, a noted speaker and author, discusses the remarkable life of John Newton, a pastor and hymnwriter from the 1700s. He highlights Newton's transformation from a morally lost sailor to a pivotal figure in the evangelical movement. Murray reflects on Newton's unique approach to pastoral counseling, emphasizing humility and reliance on Christ. The conversation also touches on Newton's legacy of hope and redemption, encouraging listeners to engage with his influential writings.

To learn the backstory of a hymn can be a richly rewarding exercise. The same applies with hymnwriters. This week we consider the life and faith of two wonderful hymnists of yesteryear: Isaac Watts (1674–1748) and Frances Ridley Havergal (1836–1879).    Featured Resources:  – Mark S. Shuttleworth, 'Isaac Watts: The Man Behind the Hymns', The Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 221, February 1982. – Pamela D. Bugden, 'Sweet Singer and Poet of Worcestershire', The Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 503, August–September 2005.    Worthy of note:  The Havergal Trust has been set up by David Chalkley to make the complete works of Frances Ridley Havergal available to the body of Christ in our own day. To date, a number of the titles have appeared as paperbacks, and there is a strong desire to see all volumes published in due course. If you would like to browse the books, or find out more about the project, see below:  https://www.havergaltrust.com/about/about-the-havergal-trust/    Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

There is, writes the Preacher of Ecclesiastes, 'a time to die' (Ecclesiastes 3:2). The believer in Christ is called to be mindful of this time, to prepare for it, and then, when it comes, to commit his or her soul to a faithful Heavenly Father.    Featured Resources:  - Toni Saad, 'Life at all Costs?', The Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 738, March 2025. - Excerpt from Iain H. Murray, David Martyn Lloyd-Jones: The Fight of Faith 1939–1981 (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1990, 2024), Chapter 35, 'Dying ... He Worshipped', pages 746–748.    Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Explore the profound question of how Christians can prepare for death. Dive into historical insights from George Swinnock and Archibald Alexander, advocating for a courageous approach to mortality. Learn about the importance of faith and grace in ensuring a peaceful transition. Discover how a clear conscience and strong belief in God's mercy can bring a sense of peace. The conversation also touches on the value of service and community engagement in facing life's final chapter.

The discussion dives deep into the biblical perspective on death, emphasizing its inevitability and the stark differences in the experiences of believers and unbelievers. Fear of death in modern society is challenged, urging listeners to confront mortality for a richer appreciation of life. Listeners are encouraged to prepare their souls for the afterlife, as spiritual awareness can profoundly impact one’s final moments. The comfort provided by scripture during life's trials is also highlighted, showcasing its significance in navigating grief.

Meditating on the Lord Jesus Christ is a high privilege of the Christian. It strengthens his faith, deepens his love, and calibrates his hope. The Lord Jesus Christ is the One in whom we, by the power of the Spirit, see the glory of the Father.  This week we take time not to pursue another aspect of Christian living, or another profile from church history, but to think about 'God the only Son, who is at the Father’s side' (John 1:18).   Featured Resources:  - Excerpt from John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion (1541), (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2014).  - Charles Hodge, Christ, the God of Christians, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 590 (November 2012).   Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast  

Donald John MacLean, President of Westminster Seminary UK and a trustee of the Banner of Truth, discusses a fascinating collection of revivals from nineteenth-century Scotland. He offers insights into the essence of true revival, contrasting genuine spiritual influence with mere emotionalism. The conversation highlights the urgent need for a spiritual revival today, drawing parallels between the challenges faced in 1840s Scotland and contemporary Western society's skepticism towards the gospel. MacLean's thoughts urge listeners to discern authentic faith amid modern distractions.