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Puritan Treasures for Today
The Fading of the Flesh and the Flourishing of Faith
The Puritans frequently talked about dying well. That is something we do not discuss much these days, though we should. In this book, George Swinnock presents modern readers with valuable food for thought as he expounds Psalm 73:26, My flesh and my heart but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever. Swinnock combines careful explanation with vivid illustration to reveal the futility of earthly comforts and highlight the inestimable comfort, satisfaction, and joy afforded us in Christ. Displaying the relevance of the Puritans for today, you will find this sorely neglected and sobering topic an easy, thought-provoking, and compelling read.
Table of
Psalm 73 in Context
Psalm 73:26 Explained
Man's Flesh Will Fail Him
The Folly of Living for the Flesh
Be Prepared to Die!
Further Reasons to Be Prepared to Die
How to Be Prepared to Die
Seek to Die Well
God Is Man's True Happiness
God Alone Is Sufficient for Man's Soul
God Alone Is Suitable to Man's Soul
God Alone Is Immortal Like Man's Soul
The Condition of Distressed Sinners and Saints
The Potion of Sinners and Saints in the World to Come Is God Your Joy?
Choose God as Your Treasure
Satisfied and Sanctified
Joy in Full and Forever
Take Comfort
Table of
Psalm 73 in Context
Psalm 73:26 Explained
Man's Flesh Will Fail Him
The Folly of Living for the Flesh
Be Prepared to Die!
Further Reasons to Be Prepared to Die
How to Be Prepared to Die
Seek to Die Well
God Is Man's True Happiness
God Alone Is Sufficient for Man's Soul
God Alone Is Suitable to Man's Soul
God Alone Is Immortal Like Man's Soul
The Condition of Distressed Sinners and Saints
The Potion of Sinners and Saints in the World to Come Is God Your Joy?
Choose God as Your Treasure
Satisfied and Sanctified
Joy in Full and Forever
Take Comfort
170 pages, Paperback
First published November 28, 2009
23 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 26, 2022
Really blessed by this book. All based off of Psalm 73 and God being our full portion and source of joy.
2 quotes I want to remember:
“If you accept this offer, it will be life for you to think of death. You will lift up your head with joy when the day of redemption draws near. Death will release you from both sin and sorrow. Your soul will be at liberty.”
“Choose suffering before sin. Punish your body to keep your soul pure.”
2 quotes I want to remember:
“If you accept this offer, it will be life for you to think of death. You will lift up your head with joy when the day of redemption draws near. Death will release you from both sin and sorrow. Your soul will be at liberty.”
“Choose suffering before sin. Punish your body to keep your soul pure.”
April 16, 2018
The Fading of the Flesh and the Flourishing of Faith is an updated reprint of a lesser known Puritan named George Swinnock. This little book is an extremely devotional, beautiful, encouraging, and convicting read. The Puritans were known for both not giving any lightness to sin and God's holiness, and the joys of salvation and sanctification. George Swinnock is a wonderful example of both of these aspects.
Overall, if you are looking for a book to stir you on to greater love for God and appreciation for the inheritance believers have in Christ, this is the book to read. If you struggle with fear of death, judgment, or lack of passion for the Lord, I would encourage you to read this as soon as you can, it is something you will want to read again and again.
Overall, if you are looking for a book to stir you on to greater love for God and appreciation for the inheritance believers have in Christ, this is the book to read. If you struggle with fear of death, judgment, or lack of passion for the Lord, I would encourage you to read this as soon as you can, it is something you will want to read again and again.
March 19, 2018
Swinnock's little book is a great aid for any Christian who desires to find his ultimate delight in Christ but struggles to do so. In my reading I was greatly encouraged by Swinnock's way of illustrating the excellencies of God. In numerous ways he revealed the truth that God alone can fill every human desire and that if God is our portion we are blessed beyond our wildest imaginations.
Here also is a book that can help the Christian to overcome his fear of death and even cause him to look forward to its coming.
Here also is a book that can help the Christian to overcome his fear of death and even cause him to look forward to its coming.
January 1, 2026
This is only my second time reading from the Puritans. I didn't realize it was even possible to contain so many metaphors and similes in one body of work. #respect
I was also surprised at the numerous questions asked in the book. I was actually really reading this book to find answers, but I found more questions than I even knew to ask. I did learn that many times, the question IS the answer. #paradox
This is an excellent text about death and preparing for death.
I was also surprised at the numerous questions asked in the book. I was actually really reading this book to find answers, but I found more questions than I even knew to ask. I did learn that many times, the question IS the answer. #paradox
This is an excellent text about death and preparing for death.
January 18, 2018
Um verdadeiro tesouro puritano! Uma belíssima exposição do Salmo 73.26.
December 2, 2012
After completing this book, I have come to the conclusion that I probably don't like Puritan authors. I like things short, sweet, and to the point - and this particular author is none of these. Not that there were not some good things in this book, but the author seemed to believe if he said the same thing over and over using different similes that it would be more persuasive. I did not find it so. I am glad that none of the Scriptural authors wrote in this style.
1. p 44 You may say to death, as the women to the prophet, "Art thou come unto me to call my sin to remembrance, and to slay my son?" (I Kings 17:18). What is the relevance of this Scripture to the point that the author is trying to say? This spiritualizing of a simple historical event is unjustifiable in my eyes. Is using a phrase similar to that used by someone in Scripture somehow more pious?
2. p 44 This, on the other hand, is great: While men walk on earth, they usually judge themselves fair, because they can find others who are fouler. However, death will remove their masks and given them a mirror, in which all the spots, dirt, and wrinkles in the faces of their hearts and lives will be visible. Men often flatter themselves, but death never flatters anyone.
3. p 50 How many times did God call me, ministers persuade me, Christ beseech me, and conscience warn me? Neverthelesss, I was a fool! I rejected the entreaties of Christ, stifled the convictions of conscience, scorned the counsels of men, ignored the commands of God, and trampled on Sabbaths, sermons, and seasons of grace. I treated them as worthless things. Now, my day is past, my soul is lost, heaven's gate is shut. Woe it is too late! Another illustration that Swinnock could write.
4. p 54 -55 How much more may a Christian esteem death, for it puts an end to his trials, sins, and troubles. It is a privilege rather than a punishment. "Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord... that they may rest from their labors" ... When you lie on your dying bed, and physicians have given up hope, Christ will visit you and give your soul such a remedy that you may walk in the valley of the shadow of death and fear no evil. Excellent!!!
5. p 66 There must be conformity to God before there can be communion with him.
6. p 71 - 73 Consider the necessity of accepting Christ as your husband. It is impossible to obtain heaven as your inheritance without marrying the One who is the heir. ... Truly, they are nothing more than what you require of your own wife (if you have one). ... Can you love Him with a superlative love as your husband?
Two objections to this section: I would like to know the Bible justification for this bridal mysticism. After doing extensive research, I have never found it; for this reason I object to it. Interesting that in this book, where there is an extensive use of "Biblical" (?) language, there is no reference to Scripture for a comparison of the individual believer as bride and Christ as husband. The church is the bride, and Christ is the husband is the only thing that I can find in Scripture, but I don't believe that you can individualize it - or if you want to I would like to see a Biblical justification.
The second objection is the assumption that this book is meant for male members of the upper middle class. This quote justifies my belief that it is meant for males and my belief that it is primarily for those of the upper middle class is more a tone that comes through, so it is definitely not a hill that I would be willing to die on.
7.p 85 - 86 Do you dread the king of terrors, death? Do not give way to this fear, but bring death up to your soul. Handle it and feel it. There is nothing that should terrify you. In so doing, you will learn to play near the hole of this viper.... You must accustom yourself to the thoughts of death - your change, your translation to bliss, and your entrance to heaven. Another section that I liked.
8. p 94 The comfort that arises from the creature is like the juice of some plums - it fills with wind but yields no nourishment. This is just funny.
9. p 109 However, the Christian's portion is the beautiful image of God, the incomparable covenant of grace, the exceedingly rich and precious promises of the gospel, the inestimable Savior, and the infinitely blessed God.
10. p 114 However, the saint's portion consists entirely of things of value: in wisdom, which is better than silver; in grace, which is worth more than pure gold; and in God, who is more precious than rubies. All that can be desired is not to be compared to God!
11. p 126 Men run and ride, toil, and labor, rise early and retire late, and exert great effort for whatever they regard as their happiness and portion.
This is one of the sections that makes me uneasy. It seems to have a disdain for those who have to work hard in this world to provide for their family. There appears to be the assumption that earning a living comes easily and does not interfere with following God.
1. p 44 You may say to death, as the women to the prophet, "Art thou come unto me to call my sin to remembrance, and to slay my son?" (I Kings 17:18). What is the relevance of this Scripture to the point that the author is trying to say? This spiritualizing of a simple historical event is unjustifiable in my eyes. Is using a phrase similar to that used by someone in Scripture somehow more pious?
2. p 44 This, on the other hand, is great: While men walk on earth, they usually judge themselves fair, because they can find others who are fouler. However, death will remove their masks and given them a mirror, in which all the spots, dirt, and wrinkles in the faces of their hearts and lives will be visible. Men often flatter themselves, but death never flatters anyone.
3. p 50 How many times did God call me, ministers persuade me, Christ beseech me, and conscience warn me? Neverthelesss, I was a fool! I rejected the entreaties of Christ, stifled the convictions of conscience, scorned the counsels of men, ignored the commands of God, and trampled on Sabbaths, sermons, and seasons of grace. I treated them as worthless things. Now, my day is past, my soul is lost, heaven's gate is shut. Woe it is too late! Another illustration that Swinnock could write.
4. p 54 -55 How much more may a Christian esteem death, for it puts an end to his trials, sins, and troubles. It is a privilege rather than a punishment. "Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord... that they may rest from their labors" ... When you lie on your dying bed, and physicians have given up hope, Christ will visit you and give your soul such a remedy that you may walk in the valley of the shadow of death and fear no evil. Excellent!!!
5. p 66 There must be conformity to God before there can be communion with him.
6. p 71 - 73 Consider the necessity of accepting Christ as your husband. It is impossible to obtain heaven as your inheritance without marrying the One who is the heir. ... Truly, they are nothing more than what you require of your own wife (if you have one). ... Can you love Him with a superlative love as your husband?
Two objections to this section: I would like to know the Bible justification for this bridal mysticism. After doing extensive research, I have never found it; for this reason I object to it. Interesting that in this book, where there is an extensive use of "Biblical" (?) language, there is no reference to Scripture for a comparison of the individual believer as bride and Christ as husband. The church is the bride, and Christ is the husband is the only thing that I can find in Scripture, but I don't believe that you can individualize it - or if you want to I would like to see a Biblical justification.
The second objection is the assumption that this book is meant for male members of the upper middle class. This quote justifies my belief that it is meant for males and my belief that it is primarily for those of the upper middle class is more a tone that comes through, so it is definitely not a hill that I would be willing to die on.
7.p 85 - 86 Do you dread the king of terrors, death? Do not give way to this fear, but bring death up to your soul. Handle it and feel it. There is nothing that should terrify you. In so doing, you will learn to play near the hole of this viper.... You must accustom yourself to the thoughts of death - your change, your translation to bliss, and your entrance to heaven. Another section that I liked.
8. p 94 The comfort that arises from the creature is like the juice of some plums - it fills with wind but yields no nourishment. This is just funny.
9. p 109 However, the Christian's portion is the beautiful image of God, the incomparable covenant of grace, the exceedingly rich and precious promises of the gospel, the inestimable Savior, and the infinitely blessed God.
10. p 114 However, the saint's portion consists entirely of things of value: in wisdom, which is better than silver; in grace, which is worth more than pure gold; and in God, who is more precious than rubies. All that can be desired is not to be compared to God!
11. p 126 Men run and ride, toil, and labor, rise early and retire late, and exert great effort for whatever they regard as their happiness and portion.
This is one of the sections that makes me uneasy. It seems to have a disdain for those who have to work hard in this world to provide for their family. There appears to be the assumption that earning a living comes easily and does not interfere with following God.
August 29, 2025
Edwards and Piper plagiarized this work.
January 28, 2018
A spiritually challenging and uplifting meditation on death and living in preparation for our deaths. Highly recommended. I already need to go back and re-read the chapter on "Is God Your Joy?"
May 4, 2015
George Swinnock is always master illustrator, painting mental pictures with his colorful examples to help his audience grasp the topic at hand. This book is highly readable, as are Swinnock’s other writings. I’ve found him to be one of the most devotional and moving of all the Puritans. He is always a joy to read.
In this work, Swinnock reminds us to prepare for death, while at the same time providing comfort for Christians. He expends much energy (with such apparent delight), convincing the reader to choose God as his portion. And the reading of it, as he empties his heart and mind on the page, about the great worth of God, is a sheer joy.
To read this work is to do your soul a great favor. How important it is to remind yourself that this life is short, and that we have eternity to look forward to.
In this work, Swinnock reminds us to prepare for death, while at the same time providing comfort for Christians. He expends much energy (with such apparent delight), convincing the reader to choose God as his portion. And the reading of it, as he empties his heart and mind on the page, about the great worth of God, is a sheer joy.
To read this work is to do your soul a great favor. How important it is to remind yourself that this life is short, and that we have eternity to look forward to.
January 3, 2026
5 ⭐️
What a rewarding read. I agree that modern Christians, especially younger people- like myself, often do not think about death in the way historical Christians viewed it. This is a hard concept to wrap your head around while also being clear to understand in other ways. I think of my great grandmother who had such an assurance of her faith and relationship with Christ that she approached her passing with such peace, faith, and assurance. I hope we all can approach our ends in a similar way. I find this hard to live out in practice as I’m sure many others feel the same way regarding hopes and dreams for the future, but this is such a reminder that, for the Christian, death is really like a release from a prison cell to a place infinitely better to someone who loves you infinitely more than we can understand. I think this would be a rewarding read as a re-read as well.
Additional note: I have just loved the puritan treasures for today series so far. It feels like I have stumbled upon a collection of real treasures from the past. If you have a local library that has a hoopla subscription, I really recommend looking there to listen to or maybe read them for free. Hoopla is my favorite resource for free Christian audiobooks and ebooks. I personally feel like they have options with more rigor and depth than what is offered by my local library’s Libby subscription.
What a rewarding read. I agree that modern Christians, especially younger people- like myself, often do not think about death in the way historical Christians viewed it. This is a hard concept to wrap your head around while also being clear to understand in other ways. I think of my great grandmother who had such an assurance of her faith and relationship with Christ that she approached her passing with such peace, faith, and assurance. I hope we all can approach our ends in a similar way. I find this hard to live out in practice as I’m sure many others feel the same way regarding hopes and dreams for the future, but this is such a reminder that, for the Christian, death is really like a release from a prison cell to a place infinitely better to someone who loves you infinitely more than we can understand. I think this would be a rewarding read as a re-read as well.
Additional note: I have just loved the puritan treasures for today series so far. It feels like I have stumbled upon a collection of real treasures from the past. If you have a local library that has a hoopla subscription, I really recommend looking there to listen to or maybe read them for free. Hoopla is my favorite resource for free Christian audiobooks and ebooks. I personally feel like they have options with more rigor and depth than what is offered by my local library’s Libby subscription.
October 20, 2022
This book was reviewed and endorsed at a recent preachers/men's meeting I attended. Of course, I don't need much convincing when it comes to the Puritans. And Puritan George Swinnock is no different especially when it comes to the style and delivery, which is typical of the Puritans. He actually reminded me of Thomas Watson.
Many are not prepared to die well many of the reasons have to do with an attachment to the flesh and to this world. Swinnock shows the folly of putting confidence either.
Launching from Psalm 73 he plots a course beginning with the failings of the flesh, dying right, and that true satisfaction and joy are to be found in God. Swinnock's very pointed delivery reminds us of the vanity of life and the temporal world.
The book has 170 pgs. and 20 chapters and has an easy-flowing writing style with plenty of words and pictures, that put the subject matter within reach. Once restocked I will be picking up a bunch to give away.
Many are not prepared to die well many of the reasons have to do with an attachment to the flesh and to this world. Swinnock shows the folly of putting confidence either.
Launching from Psalm 73 he plots a course beginning with the failings of the flesh, dying right, and that true satisfaction and joy are to be found in God. Swinnock's very pointed delivery reminds us of the vanity of life and the temporal world.
The book has 170 pgs. and 20 chapters and has an easy-flowing writing style with plenty of words and pictures, that put the subject matter within reach. Once restocked I will be picking up a bunch to give away.
October 7, 2025
When was the last time you really, really contemplated death, particularly your own? Well for the first section Swinnock forces you really face it. Then for the rest of the book he points you to the One who conquered death and is worthy of all our love and loyalty. It is worth reading because it points so beautifully to Christ. It's hard to read because it is very old fashioned.
December 31, 2019
I was introduced to a powerful reformer that I didn’t know. It you want to see how wicked man is, and how glorious it is to have faith in the only one that can change the heart, the Lord Jesus Christ, then read this book. There are some great insights and quotes throughout this read.
July 21, 2024
Rich affirmations of Ps. 73 - namely that God is our good & eternal portion. Particularly loved the last few chapters on finding satisfaction is God as our joy and treasure, and how this should affect our feelings about calamity and death.
August 14, 2024
This is Puritan at its best. Written with a passionate heart, solid theology, and clear as day, it is a tremendous encouragement to the Christian about “living as preparation for death.” Swinnock’s writing is excellent. Must read!
December 30, 2013
This, the first entry in the Puritan Treasures for Today series, presents a modernization of one of Swinnock’s classic works. Throughout its pages, he contrasts the fleeting pleasures of the world and flesh with the life and treasure only God can provide. Swinnock can be overly repetitive at times, and this volume could have used a bit more judicious editing, but it (and this series) is a welcomed addition to the growing interest in Puritan writings.
July 22, 2016
Beautiful and timely. Extremely helpful in ministering to the dying Christian.
October 12, 2016
Good meditations on death, and celebration that God is indeed my portion! Also, helped me examine where and from whom I am seeking joy.
May 1, 2017
I very good and inspiring read, as virtually all puritan works are.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews