Christian Book Notes

Fraser, James. Am I a Christian? Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust, 2009. 88 pp. $6.00. Purchase at Westminster for $4.20.

Introduction

James Fraser (1639-1698) was a Scottish Puritan who was Parish Minister of Culross, Bass Rock, Blackness, and New Gate Prisoner.  His biography is found in the 2-volume set, The Scottish Puritans.  This Pocket Puritan is extracted from his book Memoirs where he wrote of his sufferings of doubts as to his salvation.

Summary

Fraser discusses twenty grounds by which Satan will attack the believer thus causing him to doubt his salvation.  In all twenty, Fraser provides a biblical response that is both satisfying and loving.  The “secret” (for lack of a better term) for assurance of salvation is to look to Christ at all times.

At the end of the book is a choice excerpt from Alexander Whyte explaining Fraser’s understanding of biblical conversion.  You can actually find this article here.

Review

In a day when we are told we are Christian because of a prayer we read or said or an aisle we walked, Fraser’s dealings with doubt is a breath of fresh air.  I cannot think of anyone who, when being honest, has not struggled with their assurance of salvation.  Fraser offers biblical answers to twenty of the most common “disqualifications” for our salvation.  While the language may be old (it was written in the 1600′s), it is certainly worth reading.

Recommendation

I recommend this book to any who call on the name of Christ as both Lord and Savior.  There will be times when you doubt.  Fraser helps you to answer the challenges and to look to Christ through it all.  He alone will enable you to persevere through those dark days.