Thomas Goodwin Quotes

Powerful Thomas Goodwin for Daily Growth

About Thomas Goodwin

Thomas Goodwin (1600-1680) was an influential Puritan theologian, preacher, and writer during the English Civil War period. Born on February 9, 1600, in Fen Ditton, Cambridgeshire, England, Goodwin's early life was marked by loss, as he was orphaned at a young age and lived with his uncle, a vicar in Soham. This early exposure to religious teachings would prove foundational for his future vocation. Goodwin pursued theological studies at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, where he excelled academically. However, his Puritan leanings led to conflicts with the Anglican establishment, forcing him into exile in Amsterdam (1627-1639). It was during this period that Goodwin's thought matured under the tutelage of other prominent Puritans such as William Ames and Peter Bulkeley. Upon returning to England in 1640, Goodwin served as a chaplain for Parliamentary forces during the English Civil War. His oratory skills were renowned, with his sermons drawing large crowds. After the Restoration in 1660, Goodwin was arrested and imprisoned for his nonconformist beliefs. He spent much of the remainder of his life under house arrest but continued to write prolifically. Goodwin's major works include "The Fall of Man's First Parents" (1655-1680), a theological exposition on original sin, and "Heaven is a World of Love" (1659), which explores the nature of heavenly joy. His collected sermons, published posthumously as "Works" (1680), remain a significant resource for students of Puritan thought today. Thomas Goodwin's life and work demonstrate his deep commitment to religious study, theological exploration, and faithful ministry despite persecution. His influence can still be felt within Protestant circles today through his enduring contributions to Puritan theology.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"God is not only a God of infinite power, but of infinite wisdom; and to him all things are possible."

This quote emphasizes that God possesses both unlimited power and unbounded wisdom. The first part, "God of infinite power," suggests that there is no limit to what God can do or achieve. The second part, "God of infinite wisdom," implies that God's knowledge and understanding are also without bounds, ensuring His actions are always thoughtful, purposeful, and well-informed. In essence, the quote underscores God's omnipotence and omniscience, reminding us of His limitless capabilities and intelligence.

"The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever."

This quote by Thomas Goodwin suggests that human beings exist primarily for two purposes: to honor God and experience His goodness eternally. In essence, it emphasizes the importance of living a life centered on acknowledging and magnifying God's greatness while also experiencing His love and blessings. This perspective underscores the idea that fulfillment and purpose in life come from a close relationship with God, focusing on His glory and enjoying His presence.

"There is no such thing as good without God: there is no such thing as evil where there is not a choice made against God."

This quote suggests that morality, or what we perceive as "good," is inherently connected to the existence of God. In this view, goodness is defined by divine standards, making it subjective based on one's religious beliefs. On the other hand, evil is seen as a choice against God's will, indicating that moral values are relative to obedience to God or deviation from His teachings. Overall, Goodwin posits that moral judgment is rooted in our relationship with God.

"Sin is a disease, but it is more than a disease; for it is a self-moving, self-active disease, that, as soon as it takes place in any soul, makes that soul to be at enmity with God, and the enemy of God, and seeks nothing but its own increase."

The quote suggests that sin is not just a passive state or condition, but an active force that opposes God within the individual. Unlike a typical disease, sin initiates conflict with God and strives to expand its influence, implying that it has a self-propelling nature. This perspective underscores the damaging impact of sin and emphasizes the need for reconciliation between the soul and God.

"God hath appointed us not only to have our affections upon him, but to receive from him all good things for the sustaining of them, and so he requires us to live by faith, to wait on him, and expect all good things from his hand."

This quote by Thomas Goodwin emphasizes that our relationship with God is not just emotional or intellectual, but should also be practical. We are meant to depend on God for our well-being, not only regarding spiritual growth, but also in physical and material aspects of life. He encourages us to trust Him and rely on His provision, waiting patiently for His blessings instead of relying solely on self or the world. It's a reminder that faith is more than just believing; it involves living in a way that reflects our trust in God.

The children of believing parents, at least their next and immediate seed, even of us Gentiles now under the gospel, are included by God within the covenant of grace.

- Thomas Goodwin

Seed, Next, Gentiles, Covenant

And so Adam, in that his speech to Eve, uttered his faith in the promise made to her of her seed, and so in that respect Adam himself came in under her covenant.

- Thomas Goodwin

Seed, Made, Adam, Covenant

Let us search into the records of Holy Writ, if out of this their great charter, there be not a seal grant of a lesser, though like privilege, and this by virtue of Christ, in that we have the honour to be accounted Abraham's seed as truly as they.

- Thomas Goodwin

Seed, Records, Charter, Grant

I will begin first to search out this right by that magna charta, that great and faithful charter which was made to Abraham, the father of the faithful, in the name of all his seed.

- Thomas Goodwin

Seed, Will, Which, Magna

We have the promise of God's being our God, and of the blessing by Christ for ourselves, as we are Abraham's seed, yet take the whole promise collectively made to him and us.

- Thomas Goodwin

Seed, Christ, Made, Blessing

We were not fathers also to convey the promise, as Abraham was; nor although the promise, as collectively taken, had belonged to us, as to Abraham it did.

- Thomas Goodwin

Promise, Fathers, Also, Abraham

It was both Abraham's and the Jews' privilege also that they should have this promise to all generations.

- Thomas Goodwin

Jews, Generations, Should, Abraham

My brethren, when God first began to love you, He gave you all that He ever meant to give you in the lump, and eternity of time is that in which He is retailing of it out.

- Thomas Goodwin

Love, Meant, Which, Brethren

Christ's riches are unsearchable, and this doctrine of the gospel is the field this treasure is hidden in.

- Thomas Goodwin

Field, Christ, Riches, Doctrine

Judas heard all Christ's sermons.

- Thomas Goodwin

Christ, Heard, Sermons, Judas

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