Foundations Media

Episode 61 | Waiting on God by Andrew Murray
This video is a review of Andrew Murray’s devotional book, “Waiting on God”. The speaker had previously read and recommended a book titled “Waiting is Not a Waste,” which frequently quoted Murray’s work. This prompted the speaker to read “Waiting on God” to better understand its context and theological underpinnings.The speaker provides a critical analysis of Andrew Murray’s theology, situating him within the late 19th and early 20th-century Wesleyan and holiness movements. He notes that Murray and his contemporaries, associated with the Keswick conference, were well-meaning and held to the core tenets of Christianity. However, they also promoted “higher life” teachings, which suggested that Christians could attain a higher spiritual experience through a “crisis experience,” often referred to as the “baptism of the Holy Spirit” or the “filling of the Holy Spirit”. The speaker points out that this theology later influenced Pentecostalism.A key element of this “higher life” theology is the concept of “quietism,” summarized by the slogan “let go and let God”. This approach to sanctification suggests that believers should passively allow God to work in them, rather than making an active effort in their spiritual growth. The speaker contrasts this with the biblical view of sanctification, which involves the believer’s active participation. The speaker finds this “quietist” perspective problematic, noting that Murray’s book at times suggests that even reading scripture and praying can be a hindrance to this passive waiting on God.For those interested in a more in-depth critique of the “higher life” movement, the speaker recommends the book “No Quick Fix” by Andrew Naselli. He also mentions that this book includes a testimony from John MacArthur about his own experience with and departure from quietism.In conclusion, the speaker advises caution when reading “Waiting on God.” While acknowledging that the book contains some valuable quotes and principles, he warns against uncritically accepting Murray’s theological positions, particularly his views on sanctification and the “higher life”.__Southern View Chapel is an independent Bible church in Springfield, IL, committed to handling the Scriptures accurately through the exegetical teaching of God’s Word. To learn more about us, visit https://svchapel.org/ or follow us on social media:Facebook: / southernviewchapel Instagram: / southernviewchapel Twitter: / official_svc To learn about our hope in Jesus Christ, watch this short video: • The Gospel a member of Foundations Media – https://foundationsmedia.org/