Preface
The Christian's Great Interest was fist published in 1668, and many editions
have appeared since. As it is now almost unobtainable, it is reprinted by the
Publications Committee of the Free Presbyterian Church of Scotland, with the
fervent hope that it will have a further wide circulation, and prove a
continued blessing to many. Dr. Owen said, "I have written several folios,
but there is more divinity in it (The Christian's Great Interest) than in them
all." William Guthrie, of Fenwick, was a cousin of the eminent martyr, James
Guthrie, who refused a bishopric and died on the scaffold at the Cross of
Edinburgh in 1661. William desired to go to the execution of his valued cousin,
but was prevented by friends who feared for his life. It was while a student
under Samuel Rutherford, and through his instrumentality, that he received a
calling to the ministry. He was accounted one of the greatest preaches of his
day. His labours were abundantly blessed. He was banished from his church,
amidst bitter persecution, and died a few years later in 1665, at the age of
forty-five, sweetly assured of the crown that awaited him in glory.
W. Grant,
Convener Halkirk,
1951 Caithness