Thomas Hooker (1586-1647), The Activity of Faith: or, Abraham’s Imitators
Hooker had already been an important figure among English and Dutch Puritans. He became the first minister in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and later one of the leaders in founding settlements in Connecticut. This sermon, published posthumously in 1651, insists that Christian faith - and thus the reception of God's grace - will manifest itself in good works (p.109).
Grace manifests itself in the life of a believer in good works, not vice versa. There are Christians deeply rooted in the church, who are unredeemed. Faith cannot be inherited from the previous generation simply by following the routines they have set forth for the society. The new generation believes that their acts are enough to warrant the favor of God. They hope in their baptisms, their church attendance, hearing the Word, or receiving the sacraments. They live in ignorance believing that these will bring salvation… utterly surprised to hear that they won’t. The faithful of the church are called to action in this matter and not passivity. The faithful need to tell the churched-yet-unsaved of their faults and reprove them. How can you tell who is saved truly and who is not? “A faithful man is a fruitful man.” Faith produces effects. Much like a fire will burn wherever it is, faith cannot be kept a secret. Abraham had this faith prior to his outward circumcision. This made Abraham a “fruitful Christian.” So believers are then called to follow in the footsteps of Abraham’s faith, not his circumcision.
Tomorrow: Jonathan Edwards
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