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Preparations for Sufferings
The apostle Paul often taught young converts to the Christian faith that 'we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God' (Acts 14:22). For first-century Christians suffering for Christ was an inevitable accompaniment to a life of serious discipleship. In many parts of the world little has changed since those early days. But in the West, Christians have long enjoyed a period of unusual rest from such troubles. However, there are ominous signs that change is on the way. Suffering 'for righteousness' sake' may once again mark the lives of faithful Christians in the West. In this exposition of Paul's words, 'For I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus' (Acts 21:13), John Flavel shows us how vital and excellent a thing it is to prepare ourselves for the onset of sufferings.
176 pages, Paperback
First published March 17, 2014
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About the author
John Flavel
329 books88 followers"John Flavel (c.1627–1691) was an English Presbyterian clergyman, puritan, and author.
Flavel, the eldest son of the Rev. Richard Flavel, described as 'a painful and eminent minister,' who was incumbent successively of Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, Hasler and Willersey, Gloucestershire (from which last living he was ejected in 1662), was born in or about 1627 at Bromsgrove.
Having received his early education at the schools of the neighbourhood, he entered University College, Oxford, at an early age, and gained a good reputation for talent and diligence.
On 27 April 1650, he was sent by 'the standing committee of Devon' to Diptford, a parish on the Avon, five miles from Totnes, where the minister, Mr. Walplate, had become infirm. On 17 October 1650, after examination and the preaching of a 'trial sermon,' he was ordained Mr. Walplate's assistant by the classis at Salisbury. He continued to minister at Diptford for about six years, succeeding the senior minister when he died, and endearing himself greatly to the people, not only by his earnestness, but by his easy dealings with them in the matter of tithes.
In 1656 he removed to Dartmouth, though the Diptford emoluments were much greater. On the passing of the Act of Uniformity (1662) he was ejected, but continued to preach in private until the Five Mile Act drove him from Dartmouth. He kept as near it, however, as possible, removing to Slapton, five miles off, and there preached twice each Sunday to all who came, among whom were many of his old parishioners. On the granting of the indulgence of 1671 he returned to Dartmouth, and continued to officiate there even after the liberty to do so was withdrawn. In the end he found himself obliged to remove to London, travelling by sea and narrowly escaping shipwreck in a storm, which is said to have ceased in answer to his prayers. Finding that he would be safer at Dartmouth he returned there, and met with his people nightly in his own house, until in 1687, on the relaxation of the penal laws, they built a meeting-house for him. Just before his death he acted as moderator at a meeting of dissenting ministers held at Topsham. He died suddenly of paralysis at Exeter on 26 June 1691, and was buried in Dartmouth churchyard. Wood bitterly comments on the violence of his dissent."
-- Wikipedia
Flavel, the eldest son of the Rev. Richard Flavel, described as 'a painful and eminent minister,' who was incumbent successively of Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, Hasler and Willersey, Gloucestershire (from which last living he was ejected in 1662), was born in or about 1627 at Bromsgrove.
Having received his early education at the schools of the neighbourhood, he entered University College, Oxford, at an early age, and gained a good reputation for talent and diligence.
On 27 April 1650, he was sent by 'the standing committee of Devon' to Diptford, a parish on the Avon, five miles from Totnes, where the minister, Mr. Walplate, had become infirm. On 17 October 1650, after examination and the preaching of a 'trial sermon,' he was ordained Mr. Walplate's assistant by the classis at Salisbury. He continued to minister at Diptford for about six years, succeeding the senior minister when he died, and endearing himself greatly to the people, not only by his earnestness, but by his easy dealings with them in the matter of tithes.
In 1656 he removed to Dartmouth, though the Diptford emoluments were much greater. On the passing of the Act of Uniformity (1662) he was ejected, but continued to preach in private until the Five Mile Act drove him from Dartmouth. He kept as near it, however, as possible, removing to Slapton, five miles off, and there preached twice each Sunday to all who came, among whom were many of his old parishioners. On the granting of the indulgence of 1671 he returned to Dartmouth, and continued to officiate there even after the liberty to do so was withdrawn. In the end he found himself obliged to remove to London, travelling by sea and narrowly escaping shipwreck in a storm, which is said to have ceased in answer to his prayers. Finding that he would be safer at Dartmouth he returned there, and met with his people nightly in his own house, until in 1687, on the relaxation of the penal laws, they built a meeting-house for him. Just before his death he acted as moderator at a meeting of dissenting ministers held at Topsham. He died suddenly of paralysis at Exeter on 26 June 1691, and was buried in Dartmouth churchyard. Wood bitterly comments on the violence of his dissent."
-- Wikipedia
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
September 23, 2023
This book is heavy on preparation for physical persecution, so it can be easy to think that this book will not apply to many of us in our more "ordinary" suffering. However, there was so much to glean from this book. This is a comforting read for all Christians. Are we prepared to die for the sake of Christ?
"I am prepared and fitted for the greatest sufferings which shall befall me in the pursuit of my duty; be it a prison, or be it death, I am provided for either: liberty is dear, and life much dearer, but Christ is dearer than either."
"I am prepared and fitted for the greatest sufferings which shall befall me in the pursuit of my duty; be it a prison, or be it death, I am provided for either: liberty is dear, and life much dearer, but Christ is dearer than either."
January 14, 2024
John Flavel is so far my favorite puritan to read. His writings move me deeply, and are still extremely relevant--which is startling when I stop and consider the words were written nearly 400 years ago. The amount of scripture he includes throughout the book to form and support his argument is vast. I would highly, highly recommend.
July 24, 2025
John Flavel‘s ministry took place during the decade of freedom in England’s interregnum, but his writing career occurred entirely after 1662. A period Commonly known as the great persecution. In 1682 Flavel had had 20 years to reflect upon the hardships he and many other Puritans endured during this time. “Preparations for Sufferings” is his attempt to fortify Christians for the evil days in which they are living, and when their government was weaponized to punish them—a subject that is increasingly contemporary.
August 11, 2025
I walked slowly and meditatively through this book paragraph by paragraph, point by point, taking time to look up all the Scriptures etc. It was such a fruitful way to read the old Puritans and I truly want to always be taking sips from a Puritan writer going forward. There is such an abundance of riches ready to be feasted upon. I think Flavel, and this book in particular, will always have a special place in my heart because I read it during a year filled with trials of many kinds, and it has helped me endure.
March 23, 2023
Comfort for Difficult Times
This book is a powerful little book that packs a big punch. While it is short, it is incredibly insightful on the subject of suffering and the purpose of our lives. Flavel's biography is also included, which sheds light on his own experiences with suffering and how they informed his writing.
The book offers practical and biblical advice for those going through difficult times, reminding us of the importance of faith and hope. Flavel's writing is clear and concise, and his messages are delivered with compassion and understanding.
While the book may not be for everyone, those who are looking for a deeper understanding of suffering and its role in our lives will find it to be a valuable resource. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking comfort and guidance during difficult times.
Overall, it is a concise yet powerful read that is sure to leave an impact on anyone who reads it.
3.9/5
This book is a powerful little book that packs a big punch. While it is short, it is incredibly insightful on the subject of suffering and the purpose of our lives. Flavel's biography is also included, which sheds light on his own experiences with suffering and how they informed his writing.
The book offers practical and biblical advice for those going through difficult times, reminding us of the importance of faith and hope. Flavel's writing is clear and concise, and his messages are delivered with compassion and understanding.
While the book may not be for everyone, those who are looking for a deeper understanding of suffering and its role in our lives will find it to be a valuable resource. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking comfort and guidance during difficult times.
Overall, it is a concise yet powerful read that is sure to leave an impact on anyone who reads it.
3.9/5
January 6, 2023
Disclaimer: I only listened to this one on Hoopla.
In John Flavel’s work Preparation for Sufferings, the Puritan author writes to encourage the saints for persecution. While suffering is indicated in the title, the author doesn’t seem to have in mind his first, second, or third wife who died before him or his only child that preceded him in death; rather, the writer having himself experience persecution from the government and society as a Puritan, takes up the Scriptures to prepare his fellow saints for suffering for the name of Christ. The book can be condensed down to two aspects: (1) preparation for afflictions is necessary and (2) the aim of the book to help his readers in said preparation. Jesus promised His followers that they would have trouble in this world. We would be wise to believe Him and make preparations for such occasions as God ordains from His fatherly hand.
In John Flavel’s work Preparation for Sufferings, the Puritan author writes to encourage the saints for persecution. While suffering is indicated in the title, the author doesn’t seem to have in mind his first, second, or third wife who died before him or his only child that preceded him in death; rather, the writer having himself experience persecution from the government and society as a Puritan, takes up the Scriptures to prepare his fellow saints for suffering for the name of Christ. The book can be condensed down to two aspects: (1) preparation for afflictions is necessary and (2) the aim of the book to help his readers in said preparation. Jesus promised His followers that they would have trouble in this world. We would be wise to believe Him and make preparations for such occasions as God ordains from His fatherly hand.
January 20, 2024
A grounding perspective on suffering
While some have stated that this book leans too heavy on a suffering that we do not see today, I would disagree. For one, Americans who have not exposed themselves to other cultures are ignorant in their experience, and two, Christians are still being killed because of their faith today. In its purest form, biblical suffering is any opposition to the worlds ways and submission to Christ’s ways. We all need to crucify the desires of our flesh and rest in the ways of the Father. In Him there is Life!
While some have stated that this book leans too heavy on a suffering that we do not see today, I would disagree. For one, Americans who have not exposed themselves to other cultures are ignorant in their experience, and two, Christians are still being killed because of their faith today. In its purest form, biblical suffering is any opposition to the worlds ways and submission to Christ’s ways. We all need to crucify the desires of our flesh and rest in the ways of the Father. In Him there is Life!
October 28, 2024
Christians will suffer
With our sufferings, God provides amply! Our Lord and savior suffered like none other. As we humbly follow His victory on the cross, knowing the tomb is empty, He provides assurance that we are not alone. Brother Flavel writes beautifully the distilled promises of God. Highly recommended reading especially in this wicked hour. Come LORD Jesus, come quickly!
With our sufferings, God provides amply! Our Lord and savior suffered like none other. As we humbly follow His victory on the cross, knowing the tomb is empty, He provides assurance that we are not alone. Brother Flavel writes beautifully the distilled promises of God. Highly recommended reading especially in this wicked hour. Come LORD Jesus, come quickly!
July 15, 2025
Good
It’s a good reading. You can confirm and understand many ideas and also learn a lot. One of the ideas that stick with me, it’s that I need to be prepare for suffering. That’s something that made me think and reflect a lot.
Why not 5/5? Well for me there are some chapters that basically say the same things and for a moment it turns predictable and tiring reading. Besides that, it’s a good book.
It’s a good reading. You can confirm and understand many ideas and also learn a lot. One of the ideas that stick with me, it’s that I need to be prepare for suffering. That’s something that made me think and reflect a lot.
Why not 5/5? Well for me there are some chapters that basically say the same things and for a moment it turns predictable and tiring reading. Besides that, it’s a good book.
October 22, 2023
Another superb book from John Flavel! This is about preparing emotionally for persecution. Flavel would have known something about this subject as a Puritan pastor during the English Restoration, when Puritans were forced out of pulpits and jailed for preaching. His writing is calm, practical, deep, pastoral, and thoroughly evangelical.
June 6, 2025
This is a powerful and convicting call to Christians to prepare for the temptations and trials that come with suffering. Flavel gives many exhortations from Scripture on the various ways Christians are called to expect suffering and be at work now to arm their hearts for the battle. This is a book I plan to reread many times!
January 25, 2025
"Readiness for sufferings will bring the heart of a Christian to an holy rest and tranquility." This 17th-century book is a gem. Its chapters are relatively short, making it fitting as a 15-minute-a-day read.
August 25, 2023
How To Suffer Well
In this book, John Flavel tells the reader how to suffer well. Biblically rich and full of practical advice, this book should be savored and mediated on.
In this book, John Flavel tells the reader how to suffer well. Biblically rich and full of practical advice, this book should be savored and mediated on.
July 19, 2024
Rich and heavy
December 10, 2024
4.5 overall. It got better and better all the way through.
December 3, 2025
Started it over immediately.
July 25, 2023
Excellent
August 20, 2022
Writing this about a month after finishing the book because I needed some time to think. I cherished Flavel’s teaching, but the thoughts are not what I like to hear. He helped me see the goodness of God, and encouraged me to look for God’s hand in dark places.
Now today I read a little Andrew Peterson tribute to Frederick Buechner, and AP reminds me that God prefers presence over provision. On the same day I read a devotional about Job in which the author points out that God does not answer Job’s questions but offers a vision of His own majesty. And I am reminded that God has promised “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go, I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” (Ps 32:8) Maybe Flavel’s little book is part of that counsel. That is good, that is enough.
Now today I read a little Andrew Peterson tribute to Frederick Buechner, and AP reminds me that God prefers presence over provision. On the same day I read a devotional about Job in which the author points out that God does not answer Job’s questions but offers a vision of His own majesty. And I am reminded that God has promised “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go, I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” (Ps 32:8) Maybe Flavel’s little book is part of that counsel. That is good, that is enough.
June 18, 2016
Wonderful book and very timely for the USA today!! Suffering IS coming to the American church and Flavel shows us clearly what we need to do to be ready. I appreciate the outline in the back of the book by this particular publisher and and less than $7 for the paperback, what a bargain!
December 31, 2021
Wonderful Wisdom for readiness in times of suffering
The language is a bit different, but I really appreciate the wisdom in this book. This was a needed read
The language is a bit different, but I really appreciate the wisdom in this book. This was a needed read
December 30, 2024
oh so good. love flavel! and great to have this book so accessible and not just in his works collection. so encouraging.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews