Chapter 1: Taking Heaven by Violence

This is my discussion of the first chapter of Thomas Watson's book, Heaven Taken by Storm, from 2020. 

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• Introducing the text (pp. 1-3)
• Violence Concerning Magistrates (pp. 3-4)In punishing the guilty (p. 3)
  In defending the innocent (pp. 3-4)
  
• Violence Concerning Christians (pp. 4-7)
  What this violence is not (pp. 4-5)An ignorant violence (p. 4)
  
  A bloody violence (pp. 4-5)Toward oneself
  Toward another
  
  What this holy violence is (pp. 5-7)Violent for the truth (pp. 5-6)
  Violent for our own salvation (p. 7)
  
  What is implied in this holy violence? (pp. 7-8)resolution of will
  vigor of affection
  strength of endeavor
  
  the many ways of offering violenceto himself
  to Satan
  to the world, and
  to heaven
  

• Do you agree with Watson’s premise that “it is easy to talk of heaven, but not to get to heaven?” Why or why not?
• How can we both be violent in our pursuit of heaven while also resting totally in the finished work of Christ?
• How do our will, affections, and strength relate to one another? Is there a significance in Watson’s ordering of the three?
• In what ways are you hoping the rest of this book will be a challenge to you?