– 3min Read
The Whole Christ: Legalism, Antinomianism, and Gospel Assurance―Why the Marrow Controversy Still Matters by Sinclair B. Ferguson is probably one of the best books Sinclair has ever written and is probably one of the most helpful books a Christian could read. In this book, Ferguson takes us back in time to the Marrow Controversy of the 18th century in Scotland. In this controversy, we find insight into a proper theology of the grace of God.
It all started with a banned book whose author is unknown. The Marrow of Modern Divinity by E. F. was banned by the Church of Scotland in 1720, and to this day still is, (as far as the Committee for Purity of Doctrine is concerned). The supposed author of the book was Edward Fisher. Scottish Puritan Thomas Boston (1676-1732) was one of the men who advocated for the book which would land him a spot in the group that is now called the Marrow Brethren or Marrow Men. These men were under fire because of their stance on justification and their theology of grace.
In the book, Ferguson draws on this historical controversy to assist in the explanation of the grace of God and its nature. This is necessary because there are two deadly ditches on each side of the proper path. On one side we have Legalism; which is the understanding that you must be obedient (righteous) to earn the favor of God and receive His grace. This is closely associated with the Pharisees of the New Testament.
On the other side of the road is the ditch of Antinomianism. Antinomianism gets its name from the Greek ἀντί (anti) and νόμος (nomos), which translates as “anti law.” Originally the law that Antinomianism was against was the Ten Commandments, (of course all the other Old Testament laws as well). Its poor understanding of the grace of God brings about licentiousness. This heresy has molded and developed over the years, but in its genesis, it was simply anti-Decalogue.
The Marrow Men had an excellent Law-Gospel distinction and understanding. One can save, the other cannot, but both belong in the life of the Christian. The proper path that they propose, and Sinclair Ferguson writes about, will help clear up the confusion surrounding the most paramount issues of Justification and Christian living. Every, and I mean every, Christian should read this book. It is a mandatory read for all the men we train here at HBC.
In the book, Ferguson quotes Ralph Erskine, who ponders these things in verse form;
“Thus gospel-grace and law-commands
Both bind and loose each other’s hands;
They can’t agree on any terms,
Yet hug each other in their arms.Those that divide them cannot be
The friends of truth and verity;
Yet those that dare confound the two
Destroy them both, and gender woe.This paradox none can decipher,
That plow not with the gospel heifer.To run, to work, the law commands,
– Ralph Erskine
The gospel gives me feet and hands.
The one requires that I obey,
The other does the power convey.”
Please get yourself a copy of this book and read it! May God bless you.