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Matthew Mead's profound work, "The Almost Christian Discovered," delves into the core of faith, shedding light on the vital distinction between authentic devotion and a mere profession of belief. In this enlightening exploration, Mead addresses a crucial concern that resonated with 17th-century Puritans striving to develop genuine personal piety.
Mead's insights offer a crucial perspective on the deceptive nature of equating public observance with private conviction. He challenges the notion that mere outward displays of faith amount to genuine belief, emphasizing that faith devoid of deep conviction holds no true substance.
Rather than condemning those he refers to as "almost Christians," Mead's intention is compassionate-to awaken them to genuine righteousness before God. His analysis aims to shake complacent souls out of convenient self-deception, guiding them toward earnest self-reflection through the transformative power of God's grace.
With eloquence and clarity, Mead explains how individuals often wear the facade of faith out of habit or with the hope of worldly rewards, oblivious to the superficiality of a belief that hasn't penetrated the depths of heart and mind. This tendency toward hypocrisy, as Mead argues, is a universal stumbling block on the sacred path of spiritual development.
Centuries later, Mead's text remains relevant for those seeking enlightenment on the journey toward a reconciled relationship with the merciful Creator. "The Almost Christian Discovered" serves as a timeless guide and a compelling call to honesty and wholehearted devotion. By shedding the weight of pretended piety, individuals open themselves to be filled with glorious light, walking in new life with Christ, their waiting Redeemer.
About the author
Matthew Mead (Meade) (1630-1699) was an independent puritan divine, and popular reformed preacher and morning lecturer at Stepney Church (London).
C. Matthew McMahon, Ph.D., Th.D., is a Reformed theologian, and pastor of Grace Chapel in Crossville, TN. He is the founder and chairman of A Puritan's Mind, the largest Reformed website on the internet for students of the Bible concerning Reformed Theology, the Puritans and Covenant Theology. He is the founder of Puritan Publications which publishes rare Reformed and Puritan works from the 17th century, specializing in the Westminster Assembly. He is also a managing partner at Reformed.org, and the Center for Reformed Theology and Apologetics.
