This volume presents a critical edition of the immensely influential and popular first version of The Christian Directory, by the notorious Elizabethan Jesuit leader, Robert Persons. It was written during and immediately after the English Mission of 1580-1, which ended with the martyrdom of his companion Edmund Campion. Persons's work, originally entitled The First Booke of the Christian Exercise, appertayning to Resolution, attempts to persuade the reader to be resolved in the service of God. It deals with the motives and obstacles to such resolution. This edition includes a full apparatus of the alterations made to Persons's work by the Edmund Bunny, whose Protestant edition became an Elizabethan bestseller. It will be particularly useful to historians of the Catholic reformation and students of early modern English prose.

This work is a directory for the Christian taken from 1 Corinthians 7:30-31 in 15 powerful and convicting sermons. Christopher Love says that this text may very well be called "A Christian’s Directory" to guide and direct the Christian in his ordinary course in spite of what he may meet here in the world. Whatever his condition is he will find advice and counsel in 1 Cor. 7. If he meets with crosses, troubles and afflictions, his duty is to “weep as if he wept not.” If he meets with prosperity and outward happiness, then his duty is to “rejoice as if he rejoiced not.” If he is in the working class and he gets a great estate, then his duty is to use his wealth so “as if he possessed it not.” This is an extremely practical discourse that will aid the Christian in the basics of life while he lives in world. He shows that the Christian is to live moderately, not in excess. This is not a scan or facsimile, has been updated in modern English for easy reading and has an active table of contents for electronic versions.

Richard Baxter's 'A Christian Directory: Christian Ethics' serves as a comprehensive guide to Christian living and ethical behavior within the context of the 17th century. Written in a practical and instructional style, the book covers a wide range of topics including worship, prayer, family life, and societal responsibilities. Baxter's work is an important piece of English Puritan literature, reflecting the religious and moral concerns of his era. The book is a valuable resource for understanding the moral framework of the time and offers insights into the practical application of Christian principles in daily life. Richard Baxter, a prominent Puritan minister and theologian, was known for his pastoral care and devotion to promoting religious reform. His experiences working as a minister in troubled times influenced his writing, shaping his perspectives on Christian ethics and moral conduct. Baxter's deep understanding of the scriptures and commitment to moral living are evident in 'A Christian Directory', making it a significant contribution to Christian literature. I highly recommend this book to readers interested in exploring the historical roots of Christian ethics and seeking guidance on leading a moral and devout life.