It seems necessary to write a few words of introduction to Selected Writings of Charles Stanley which is a re-publication, in two volumes, of certain of his articles and tracts.
Few other Christian writers have written in a manner as easily understood on the subject of salvation through faith in the finished work of Christ, or have made it as clear that it cannot be obtained by any effort or work of our own. Mr. Stanley has ably expounded the truth that man in the flesh cannot please God, and that every effort of man to justify himself must only end in his condemnation. He has also set forth in order the grand foundation of how God, who is holy, can be just while justifying the ungodly sinner.
Perhaps the great emphasis given these all-important truths in his writings was partly due to the deep exercise of soul which he passed through, while trying to make himself fit for God. This will be best told in his own words: “For weary months I was struggling under law, seeking to meet the requirements of the law, and always failing. God the Giver, and God the Producer of all He requires was, as yet, utterly unknown. I was returning to my home in a village near Laughton, weary and sorrowful even to despair. I was alone with God in the lane: I fell to the ground in the middle of the road and groaned, Oh Lord, I can do no more, I can go no farther,’ and I felt in my soul that I was lost. It was there the Holy Spirit revealed to me the true and blessed fact that ‘God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life,’ and oh, from that day, what mercy, what depths of mercy!”
The articles contained in these volumes are by no means all that Mr. Charles Stanley wrote. Much other profitable ministry has come from his pen, but that which has been selected for present publication covers a wide range. Certain references to persons and places, having no bearing on the truth presented, have been deleted, as well as anything of a controversial nature.
Mr. Stanley was one of the “young men” who drew water from the deep wells that we may come and drink. Ruth, the Moabitess, was told by Boaz, the mighty man of wealth, to come whenever she was thirsty and drink of that which the young men had drawn. May the Lord increase our thirst and may we not seek to satisfy soul thirst with anything from the “broken cisterns” of this world. Then shall we praise Him for the refreshing drafts drawn for us by His servants. To Him be all the praise!
In either volume will be found a wide variety of subjects so that there may be food for all. Any one who is unsaved will find the Gospel simply and interestingly told and illustrated. He who is still burdened and seeking deliverance will discover God’s complete deliverance set forth. It is recommended that young Christians read these books, for they present Christ as the Object for the soul and the Motive for every right work, which is essential for spiritual growth. And the mature Christian will be refreshed as he finds the precious things of God and of Christ called to his remembrance.
1947 Editor