Among the greatest voices of the Puritan era stands John Owen (1616–1683) a man known for his towering intellect, deep spiritual insight, and unwavering devotion to Jesus Christ. Owen's works continue to shape Reformed theology, offering profound wisdom on subjects like the Holy Spirit, sanctification, mortification of sin, and the glory of Christ.
If you're looking for Puritan books that combine deep doctrine with heartfelt devotion, John Owen is essential reading.
Who Was John Owen?
Born in 1616 in Stadhampton, Oxfordshire, John Owen was educated at Oxford University, where he earned his B.A. and M.A. by age 21. Though outwardly religious in his youth, it was not until hearing a sermon by an unknown preacher that he experienced true conversion to Christ.
Owen became one of the most prominent Puritan theologians, pastors, and political advisors during the English Civil War and the Commonwealth era. He served as vice-chancellor of Oxford University, chaplain to Oliver Cromwell, and later as a pastor to independent congregations when persecution came after the monarchy’s return.
His Most Powerful Works
John Owen’s writings are vast, but here are a few of his most influential books:
📘 The Mortification of Sin
A timeless classic based on Romans 8:13, this book teaches how to put sin to death by the power of the Holy Spirit. Its famous line, “Be killing sin, or sin will be killing you,” still resonates today.
📘 The Glory of Christ
Written near the end of his life, Owen meditates on the beauty and majesty of Jesus Christ. This book is especially uplifting for those who long for a deeper communion with Christ.
📘 Communion with God
This work explains how believers relate to each person of the Trinity. It's one of Owen’s more pastoral books, offering rich teaching on experiencing the love of the Father, grace of the Son, and fellowship of the Spirit.
📘 The Holy Spirit
A powerful theological study on the work of the Spirit in regeneration, sanctification, and Christian assurance. Owen was among the first to write extensively and biblically on the doctrine of the Holy Spirit.
Why John Owen Still Matters Today
John Owen wrote with both the scholar and the struggling believer in mind. His works address the deep needs of the human soul, confronting sin, exalting Christ, and grounding readers in Scripture.
In an age of shallow spirituality, Owen’s writings challenge modern Christians to pursue holiness, biblical truth, and intimacy with God.
Many pastors, theologians, and lay believers today still turn to Owen as one of the greatest expositors of Reformed theology and spiritual life.
Where to Start Reading John Owen
If you’re new to Owen, here are beginner-friendly editions available at Reformed Books:
These are abridged and edited for easier reading while preserving Owen’s powerful content.
Final Thoughts
John Owen remains one of the most faithful and theologically rich writers in Christian history. His works are not just for scholars; they’re for every believer who desires to grow in grace, battle sin, and see the glory of Christ more clearly.
If you hunger for deeper theology rooted in Scripture and applied to real life, John Owen is a must-read Puritan author.