If we’re honest, we’d have to say that about a lot of our heroes in the faith. They’re “often quoted, rarely read.” But that’s like a man dying of thirst opting for water from a dropper when kegs of life-giving water is beneath his hand!
Early in my Christian life I came across quotes from Stephen Charnock. I didn’t know anything about him, but he kept turning up in the books I was reading. In retrospect, two things are evident to me. First, I was and am incredibly ignorant of the many saints God has given to His church throughout the ages. Second, God was providentially steering me into deep, refreshing waters as He introduced me to men like Charnock.
Those early well-placed quotes were formative, shaping lasting thoughts about the greatness of God and His salvation. But, alas, too many are “often quoted, but rarely read.” That’s why I’m grateful to The Banner of Truth for the publication of the new 5-volume set The Works of Stephen Charnock. I received a set last week and I look forward to taking slow, steady gulps.
Is there anyone you’ve heard quoted often and appreciated but haven’t yet read?