John Flavel
John Flavel
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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John Flavel was a prominent English Puritan minister, theologian, and author. He is commonly known by his full name, John Flavel.
Birth and Death Dates
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John Flavel was born on 1630 in Halwill, Devonshire, England, and passed away on October 26, 1691, in Dartmouth, Devonshire.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Flavel was a British citizen and served as an Anglican minister, later becoming a Presbyterian. His profession primarily revolved around the ministry, with a strong focus on theology and writing.
Early Life and Background
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Growing up in a Puritan family, Flavel's spiritual upbringing significantly influenced his life choices. His father, Richard Flavel, was a devout man of faith who instilled in John the importance of Christian living. Tragedy struck when John was just five years old, as his parents died within a few days of each other. This event led to John being sent to live with relatives.
Major Accomplishments
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Flavel's academic and ministerial career was marked by several notable achievements:
He graduated from Exeter College, Oxford, in 1650.
Flavel became the rector of Dartmouth in 1660, a position he held until his death.
His sermons were highly regarded for their depth and passion.Notable Works or Actions
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Flavel's literary contributions include:
"The Mystery of Providence" (1678): A treatise on the sovereignty of God in relation to human affairs.
"Rail at the Gospel, and you shall feel the Sting thereof" (1675): A sermon that demonstrates Flavel's ability to tackle challenging topics with conviction.Impact and Legacy
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Flavel's influence extends beyond his writings:
His sermons were highly respected by contemporaries for their insight into biblical truths.
He was known for his unwavering commitment to the principles of Puritanism.Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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John Flavel is widely quoted and remembered due to his enduring influence on Christianity, particularly in the areas of:
Theology: His works demonstrate a deep understanding of biblical teachings and their application to everyday life.
* Preaching: Flavel's sermons were celebrated for their ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
Flavel's contributions have stood the test of time due to his dedication to spreading the message of Christianity, emphasizing the importance of faith in everyday life.
Quotes by John Flavel
John Flavel's insights on:
It is a good sign that our troubles are sanctified to us when they turn our hearts against sin, and not against God.
In short, forbidden fear is merely concerned with self-preservation. It does not take God’s glory into account. On the contrary, it actually desires the removal of what it perceives as dangerous, meaning it desires the removal of God.
When our needs are permitted to grow to an extremity, and all visible hopes fail, then to have relief given wonderfully enhances the price of such a mercy.
O my soul, I am now addressing myself to the greatest work that ever a creature was employed about – I am going into the solemn presence of God about business of everlasting importance!
I look upon every good man, as a good book, lent by its owner for another to read, and transcribe the excellent notions and golden passages that are in it for his own benefit, that they may return with him when the owner shall call for the book again: but in case this excellent book shall be thrown into a corner and no use made of it, it justly provokes the owner to take it away in displeasure. – Funeral of John Upton, Esq.
We must not think that faith itself is the soul’s rest; it is only the means of it. We cannot find rest in any work or duty of our own, but we may find it in Christ, whom faith apprehends for justification and salvation.
A bad heart and a slippery memory deprive men of the comfort of many mercies, and defraud God of the glory due for them.
