Friday 25 November 2011

Philip Doddridge of Northampton








The Good Doctor: Philip Doddridge of Northampton
A Tercentenary Tribute
319pp pbk £9.95
ISBN 0 9526716 3 8
As a pastor, preacher, theologian, educator, author, hymn writer, philanthropist and patriot, Philip Doddridge (1702-51) was a remarkable English Christian by any standard. His faithful, fragrant and far-reaching testimony to Christ made him unique in his day. This tribute introduces us to an attractive personality whose remarkable achievements merit renewed attention. At a time of confusion and uncertainty in church and society, the author believes that a rediscovery of Doddridge’s contribution is long overdue.

To purchase your own copy, please visit http://www.christiancharenton.co.uk/?tid.hl.tgd

REVIEW EXTRACTS
‘A deeply interesting work about a fascinating Christian. ... the book is excellently presented, lavishly illustrated and good value for money’ (English Churchman).

‘Among other biographers ... Alan Clifford’s book is now clearly indispensable. It is also warm, readable and challenging’ (News of Hymnody).

‘Lovers of Doddridge, Northampton, hymns, revival and the history of English Dissent, cannot afford to ignore this book’ (Evangelicals Now).

Dr Clifford has ... done us a real service with the publication of his book in the 300th anniversary of Doddridge’s birth. The book is well written and attractively produced. The narrative is interesting and informative’ (The Banner of Truth).

‘Doddridge’s life and ministry are set out in a very readable way, and Dr Clifford’s enthusiasm for his subject comes through on every page. ... [a] most valuable and stimulating tribute to one of the greatest stars in the Congregational firmament’ (Congregational Concern).

‘A scholarly and well presented book ... comprising a very useful appendix ... This book will make a valuable addition to any library and comes highly recommended’ (Our Inheritance).

‘[In] this enlightening biography ... our hearts warm to a man whose consuming desire was to win souls for Christ and whose strength and life were devoted to the glorifying of God’ (Peace & Truth).

PERSONAL APPRECIATION
I had the privilege of reading this excellent biography of one of God's great servants while on holiday a few years ago, and enjoyed it immensely.  I had one criticism of it which I shared with the author - the reading only lasted for one week! I was disappointed when I had finished it.  I made good this deficit by reading it again, and referring to often.


Then,just this time last year, my work took me to Lisbon in Portugal, and during a period when we were on a break, I was able to locate and visit the British Cemetery there, and also to see the grave where Doddridge is buried, having died of an illness 200 years to the very year before my birth.  It was an honour to see where the great man was laid to rest.

But Dr Clifford's treatment of Doddridge is sympathetic, scholarly, factual and most edifying.  Read it for yourself.

Your copy can be purchased from the published by clicking here.  Please remember, when ordering, to quote TID.HL.TGD.  Thank you.

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