The Travels of Ungodliness

Among Keach’s writings, The Travels of True Godliness stands foremost for me, surpassed only by its companion, The Travels of Ungodliness or The Progress of Sin. In this companion volume to The Travels of True Godliness, Keach illustrates godliness through its antithesis: ungodliness. Unlike Godliness, Ungodliness—often referred to as Peccatum—is warmly welcomed by many. This book describes the abominable nature and prevailing power of sin along with the subtle tactics of the Devil. You might be convicted, but you will not be disappointed reading this book in which Keach imaginatively and creatively conveys important biblical truths.

Benjamin Keach was one of the most gifted Particular Baptist pastors and authors of the seventeenth century. The Travels of Ungodliness or The Progress of Sin stands as one of his most enduring works. In the same allegorical vein as his earlier The Travels of True Godliness, Keach here depicts Sin as a living, traveling tyrant, the spawn of the Devil, one who corrupts every faculty of the soul. Sin is the relentless enemy of mankind from the Garden of Eden to the present. With vivid, biblical imagery and a sense of pastoral urgency, Keach traces Sin’s advancement through every stage of life and position in society to its ultimate defeat in Christ alone. This allegory is entertaining, convicting, and encouraging. It exposes sin’s subtle strategies while exalting the boundless grace of Jesus Christ. Matthew Hartline has performed a true service to the church by transforming this classic into accessible modern English without sacrificing its doctrinal precision or literary style. In a time when sin is trivialized and Christ’s holiness is minimized, this new edition of The Progress of Sin deserves a wide readership. By the grace of Christ and in the hand of the Spirit, it will awaken slumbering consciences, equip believers to fight the good fight, and point sinners to the only Deliverer who can break sin’s power. I heartily commend it.