The Highway Forums General Discussion Open Forum The Christian's Secret of a Happy Life by Hannah Whitall Smith‎

Is anyone here familiar with this book? It was very popular in the early part of last century. I'm listening to the audio book and I've only heard to chapter 3, but it sounds to me like it is influenced by the Keswick "higher life" movement. Wikipedia says that it was, "...an extremely popular book of Christian mysticism and practical Holiness theology." I'm not sure what Christian mysticism is, but so far I have heard nothing heretical or unorthodox. All points she has made are supported by Scripture.

I would be interested in what other members of this forum think about this book.

In a broad sense, "christian mysticism" would include the teachings of the Keswick movement, higher life, deeper life, et al. The focus is upon the "transcendental/experiential" experience and poo-poos the intellectual. Terms have changed, but in essence this type of unbiblical teaching is seen in many churches across denominations today, e.g., the emphasis upon "having a relationship with God". It is certainly true that a true believer will have various "experiences" in his/her walking in grace (sanctification). And they will vary in intensity. But these experiences are not typical and they cannot be induced through various practices, e.g., fasting, prayer, self-flagellation, or any other ritual. God is the source of all joy and peace. Jonathan Edwards' Religious Affections is a far more biblical understanding of the Christian experience.

Hannah Whitall Smith was a Quaker and eventually was influenced by the Wesleyan-based Holiness movement. Like all these types of 'movements' there is an emphasis upon introspection, which more often than not leads to spiritual depression and a loss of assurance. Personally, I would avoid this woman's teachings.

Was that the theology of we just need to let loose ourselves, and let God?

They did see a higher life as just taking yourself out of the way, stop human efforts, and allowing for the Holy Spirit to fully live and thru us, correct?

Yes, that's what I understand from the little I know about this movement. There are some interesting MP3 audio files here.

They would seem to be saying that we just need to fully asllow for the Holy Spirit to live the life of Christ in and thru us, as way to being more into image of Christ!