There is a charm and intensity about Simon Peter’s character which have in all ages made his Life and Letters peculiarly attractive to his brethren in Christ. Doubtless it is because he is in so many ways like ourselves, that we have felt so drawn to him. Although an apostle, he “was a man subject to like passions as we are,” and by his mistakes we have learned much, while we may well imitate his fervor.
When Peter’s blessed Master became the writer’s — just thirty-two years ago this day — a little bit of his history (Luke 18:28-3028Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. 29And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, 30Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting. (Luke 18:28‑30)), quoted by a servant of God, greatly impressed and helped him spiritually; and the oft-repeated study of his Life, and ministry thereon, has undesignedly led to the unpretending volume now in the reader’s hands. It consists largely of notes of addresses, revised, and extended, while some chapters have been written specially.
The author’s object has been to trace out completely God’s record of His beloved servant, scattered through the New Testament, and briefly to unfold his Epistles.
The book is designed for the lambs of Christ’s flock, to whom, it is trusted, it may, by the Lord’s grace, be helpful.
To the care and blessing of a Master unequaled in grace — as both Simon Peter and the writer have tasted — the volume is now commended.
W. T. P. W.
46 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, 16th December, 1893.