"Based on the American edition of 1829, entitled A practical view of the prevailing religious system of professed Christians, in the higher and middle classes in this country, contrasted with real Christianity"--Title page verso.

I. Inadequate conceptions of the importance of Christianity -- Popular notions extremely inadequate -- Unreasonable to expect to become proficient in Christianity without inquiry and pains -- Exposure of false maxims -- II. Inadequate conceptions of human nature -- Discrepancy between theory and practice -- Spiritual representation of human corruption -- Objections dismissed about our "natural condition" -- Folly of busying ourselves with what is beyond our comprehension and neglecting what is plain and practical -- III. Inadequate conceptions of God and of Christian behavior -- Leading doctrines concerning Christ and the Holy Spirit as stated in Scripture -- Inadequate conception of Christianity -- The validity of the emotions within religion -- Inadequate conceptions of the Holy Spirit's operations -- Mistaken conceptions of the terms of acceptance with God.

IV. Inadequate conceptions of the terms of acceptance with God -- The discipline of Christianity as stated in Scripture -- Notions of practical Christianity generally prevalent -- The desire for human admiration and applause -- The common error of substituting pleasant manners and business in the place of true religion -- Some other major defects in the practice of most nominal Christians -- Major defect in neglect of the distinctive doctrines of Christianity -- V. The excellence of real Christianity -- The inner consistencies of biblical Christianity -- Higher value set by Christianity on moral than on intellectual attainments -- Intrinsic excellence of the practical precepts of Christianity.

VI. A brief inquiry into the present state of Christianity -- Christianity has raised the well-being and tone of communities -- Effects of adversity and prosperity on religion -- Distinctives of Christianity tend to be ignored -- Objections answered that the author's system is too strict to be practical -- Choice between vital Christianity or none at all -- Evangelical Christianity alone is likely to produce any real amendment -- VII. Conclusion: practical hints for real Christianity -- Practical hints to avoid self-deception -- Advice to some who profess their full assent to the fundamental doctrines of the gospel -- A challenge to unbelievers -- Being true Christians because of the state of our times.