Introduction to Henry Scougal and "The Life of God in the Soul of Man"

Chances are you've never heard of Henry Scougal. But he may have been one of the most influential Christian writers of the past 400 years when you consider that George Whitfield and the Wesley brothers credited the book we are about to explore as having revealed to them the nature of true religion.

In his short life (1650-1678, just 28 when he died of tuberculosis) Scougal accomplished much of lasting worth. He was born into a family of Scottish pastors and was destined for the church. A brilliant and hard-working student, he entered college at age 15 and was named a professor of philosophy at just 19. Ordained to the ministry in 1672 he took a pastorate in which he served briefly with distinction before being recalled to the university at Aberdeen as a professor of divinity. There he served out the remainder of his days.

His best-known work, The Life of God in the Soul of Man, was originally a (long) letter to a friend. Another friend was so taken with it that he persuaded Scougal to allow it to be published, which Scougal did only reluctantly, insisting that it be an anonymous work. Its reception undoubtedly surprised him. The book has gone through many editions subsequently; John Wesley made an abridgement that was printed seven times in 66 years. It is composed of three principal sections: The nature of true religion; the excellency and advantage of religion; and the practical elements of religion.

It is my prayer that readers will find the forthcoming journey leads them to new appreciation for the Christ whom Scougal served so well.

Tomorrow: We begin to listen to Henry Scougal.