The Bond of Grace and Duty

Dr. Philip Craig's very impressive work on John Owen establishes that he challenged antinomianism extensively in his Works despite seldom identifying antinomian authors, perhaps anticipating Margaret Thatcher’s later policy of refusing to name her opponents, lest he should unwittingly give them “the oxygen of publicity.” Dr. Craig has demonstrated that he knows his way around the Puritans in general and John Owen in particular. He certainly clears up a great deal of contemporary confusion at the outset by making an important distinction between preparation for grace and preparationism. Philip Craig's work is relevant for the church today, as antinomianism remains a serious issue. I welcome this book's publication and wish it a wide circulation.

Dr. Phil Craig reveals the thorough work of Owen in presenting the true biblical teaching on saving grace, preparation for grace and the pursuit of holiness. I am so thankful that The Bond of Grace and Duty is now available to faithful pastors who shepherd believers’ souls and to theologically engaged Christians who want to grow in grace. Tolle lege!

Philip Craig’s analysis shows very clearly what was at issue here, and how completely and crushingly, without naming names, Owen outflanks and undercuts this widespread Puritan form of easy-believism. It is a thorough, painstaking and definitive piece of work that carries more of a message for the church of our time than doctoral theses usually do. What a privilege it is to introduce and commend such a worth-while book as this.