When we say we are spirit-led, what spirit is leading us? How do we realize in our times the demands and promises of Christ's covenant? How is our inward struggle toward faithfulness and unity connected to the outward work of reconciliation? My hope with this essay is to introduce modern Friends to Nayler's writings, his voice and ideas, so that they may be encouraged or intrigued to read more of his writings themselves and engage in dialogue with this powerful, resourceful, and disturbing Quaker founder.
"To read James Nayler is to connect with Quakerism's initial eruption of insight and obedience," writes Brian Drayton, who has found, in the writings of this influential and controversial Friend, messages that speak to the turmoil of our times, as they spoke to the turmoil of 1650s England. Some central themes in the ministry of James Nayler are explored, with attention to how they address the most basic challenges of faithfulness in what early Friends called "the Lamb's War." Through this exploration, Brian Drayton invites readers into a closer acquaintance and dialogue with the life and works of James Nayler. Discussion questions included.
