Book Review: “Personal Declension and Revival of Religion in the Soul” by Octavius Winslow, Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth, 1841 reprinted 1978.

Overview—Give a brief overview of the book, including its theme, perspective and approach.

In typical (post) Puritan style, Winslow gives the overview and theme of his book in its title. Winslow challenges the reader to ask, “What is the present spiritual state of my soul before God?” He then leads the reader through some healthy self-assessment to see where declension has affected ones love, faith, prayer, and doctrine. Winslow concludes his book with spiritual encouragement as he sets before his reader the Lord as restorer and keeper of His people.

Critique—Offer a brief critique of the book, including elements of strength and weakness.

I found “Personal Declension” to be one of the best books I’ve read on the subject of personal spiritual renewal. Winslow is both pastoral and probing as he leaves no stone of the heart unturned. Winslow emphasizes the unshakeable grace of the Lord in preserving his people, yet warns against signs of malaise of the inner life of the believer. His remedies are practical and clear. He helps one to both mourn for their sin and hope for their restoration. One could wish for more exegetical Biblical exposition, but I found Winslow to be well within the realm of historic Biblical orthodoxy.

Application—Offer some specific application to your own ministry— demonstrating the value and relevance of the material in this book.

I hope to return to Winslow as a “physician of the soul” to help remedy my own “spiritual declension”. If Winslow were writing today, a workbook or discussion guide would be included. He suggests, at every turn, that the reader pinpoint the point(s) of spiritual departure, retrace one’s steps, and crucify the cause of declension at the cross of Christ. Personally, the chapter on “Declension in Prayer” was most helpfully convicting and will be revisited!

Best Quote—Be sure to include the page number where the quote can be found.

P. 54” “A decay of love to the saints of God, is a strong evidence of a decay of love to God himself. If we love God with a sincere and deepening affection, we must love his image wherever we find it. It is true, the picture may be but an imperfect copy, the outline may be but faintly drawn; there may be shades we cannot approve of; yet, recognizing in the work the hand of the Spirit, and in the outline some resemblance to Him whom our souls admire and love, we must feel a drawing out of our holiest affections towards the object; we shall not pause before the surrender is made, to inquire to what section of the church of Christ he belongs, what name he bears, or what the color of his uniform; but, discovering the man of God, the meek and lowly follower of Jesus, our heart and our hand are freely offered.”