An aching tooth is better out than in. To lose a rotting member is a gain

An aching tooth is better out than in. To lose a rotting member is a gain

Richard Baxter was a prominent English Puritan church leader, theologian, and writer who lived in the 17th century. He was known for his strong beliefs in the importance of personal piety and the need for reform within the Church of England. Baxter's writings often focused on the themes of repentance, salvation, and the importance of living a godly life.

One of Baxter's most famous quotes is, "An aching tooth is better out than in. To lose a rotting member is a gain." This quote can be interpreted in a variety of ways, but in the context of Baxter's beliefs, it likely speaks to the idea of removing sin and corruption from one's life in order to live a more righteous and holy existence.

In the physical sense, an aching tooth can cause immense pain and discomfort. It can affect one's ability to eat, speak, and even sleep. In this way, the tooth can be seen as a metaphor for sin or corruption in one's life. Just as a rotting tooth must be removed in order to alleviate pain and prevent further damage, so too must sin be eradicated in order to live a life of spiritual health and wholeness.

Baxter believed that true repentance and turning away from sin was essential for salvation. He saw sin as a barrier that separated individuals from God and hindered their ability to live a life of faith and obedience. In this sense, losing a "rotting member" – whether it be a physical tooth or a sinful habit – was seen as a gain, as it allowed for spiritual healing and growth.

Baxter's quote also speaks to the idea of self-discipline and the importance of making difficult choices in order to live a life of integrity and righteousness. Just as it may be painful to have a tooth removed, so too may it be difficult to confront and overcome sin in one's life. However, Baxter believed that the temporary discomfort of repentance and self-denial was worth the ultimate gain of spiritual health and closeness to God.