About this episode

John Snyder explores the letters of Samuel Rutherford, emphasizing the beauty of Christ and the importance of early devotion.

In this week’s episode, John Snyder continues exploring the letters of Samuel Rutherford. Rutherford is known for his poetic descriptions of Christ. Even when his life was difficult, he continued to speak of Christ’s worth and beauty. In this letter to a young Christian, Rutherford gives counsel in two main areas. He urges him to seek Christ early. He also shows why Christ is worthy to be followed at any cost. First, he tells the young man to give Christ his “virgin love.” This means giving Christ the first and best of his affections. His heart should not be claimed by lesser loves. Then Rutherford explains why Christ deserves this kind of devotion. He points to the beauty of creation. He speaks of the sun, the moon, and the stars. Then he stops and corrects himself. Compared to Christ, even these are not truly beautiful. What once seemed bright is dark next to Him. Rutherford’s goal is simple. He wants us to see Christ as He truly is. When we do, everything else changes. We pray this episode lifts your view of Christ and helps you seek Him, no matter what you face today. Show Notes Samuel Rutherford and His Friends by Faith Cook…

People in this episode

Host: John Snyder

Topics covered

• Christian devotion
• Letters of Samuel Rutherford
• Beauty of Christ
• Spiritual counsel
• Seeking Christ

Keywords

• Samuel Rutherford
• Christ
• devotion
• spirituality
• Christianity
• letters
• beauty

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Media Gratiae, Banner of Truth

Books & works: Letters of Samuel Rutherford, Samuel Rutherford and His Friends

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• Praying Together III: Priming the Pump (Originally Published 4.10.25) · April 23, 2026 · 38 min
• Praying Together I: Digging the Well (Originally Published 03.27.25) · April 16, 2026 · 30 min
• Letters of Samuel Rutherford IV: Assurance of Faith · April 9, 2026 · 33 min
• Letters of Samuel Rutherford II: No Poison in Christ’s Cup · March 26, 2026 · 25 min
• Letters of Samuel Rutherford I: Six People Who will Benefit · March 19, 2026 · 23 min
• Letters of John Calvin VI: The Final Farewell of the Reformer · March 12, 2026 · 30 min

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