William McEwen, Delighting in God and All His Ways: Doctrinal and Practical Meditations on Divinity. Grand Rapids: Reformation Heritage Books, 2023.
In the bustling, reformative landscape of 18th-century Scottish theology, a jewel of pastoral insight shone brightly, albeit briefly, in the ministry of William McEwen. Despite his early death at the age of 27, McEwen left a significant legacy that continues to nourish souls today. His collection of sermons, distilled into ninety-eight concise entries, is masterfully presented in Delighting in God and All His Ways, organized by Gordon J. Keddie. This book is a devotional exploration of Christian doctrine that invites us to find our deepest joy in God.
Born in 1735, William McEwen served at the Associate Congregation in Dundee, Scotland, under the tutelage of notable figures like Ebenezer Erskine and James Fisher, leaders in the Scottish secession from the national church. This grounding in fervent, warm, experiential Reformed theology is evident throughout his writings, which traverse the grand themes of systematic theology—from the perfections of God to the profound realities of death and eternity. McEwen practiced the personal discipline of reworking his sermons into clear, earnest, and heartfelt meditations. Each entry in this book is a testament to McEwen’s rigorous theological acumen paired with a warm, pastoral heart.
What makes McEwen’s work stand out is the accessibility of his profound theological reflections. His language, while rich and occasionally elaborate, remains clear and deeply edifying, making complex doctrines approachable, attractive, and applicable for believers at all stages of their spiritual journey. His insights are not just to be studied; they are to be savoured and lived. McEwen engages the intellect and stirs the affections, making theology an avenue for deepening one’s delight and devotion to God.
This book serves multiple purposes. It is an excellent tool for daily devotions, offering bite-sized yet rich theological reflections that can set the tone for a day lived in God’s presence. It also fits beautifully into family worship settings, where its entries can spark meaningful discussions about the truths of the Christian faith. Additionally, for pastors and lay leaders, McEwen’s work provides a treasure trove of doctrinal clarity and pastoral wisdom that can inform preaching and teaching.
Delighting in God and All His Ways is characterized by its catechetical precision and illustrative style. McEwen’s ability to weave doctrinal fidelity with practical application makes each page a vibrant encounter with the truths of Scripture. The book covers a wide array of topics essential to Christian living, from the nature of God and the fall of man to the glories of Christ and the Christian virtues. This breadth ensures that readers gain a holistic understanding of their faith, anchored in a Reformed theological perspective.
McEwen reminds us that theology is never just for the mind; it is for life. It is about knowing God truly and delighting in Him fully. The legacy of William McEwen, though encapsulated in a brief earthly ministry, offers lasting spiritual nourishment. His writings call us to a deeper, more joyful engagement with the doctrines that shape our lives as followers of Christ.
I heartily recommend Delighting in God and All His Ways to anyone eager to see how deep theology can lead to real delight in God. Whether you are a pastor, a layperson, or a student, you will find in McEwen’s writings a rich resource for growth in both understanding and affection for the Lord. Dive into this book and let the timeless truth of God’s Word refresh and nourish your spirit and renew your pursuit of him.
