by Rev. Andrew Thomson
in ePub, .mobi and .pdf formats
Formatted, lightly modernized, and annotated by William H. Gross
"Thomas Boston of Ettrick: His Life and Times" by Rev. Andrew Thomson is a rich and captivating portrayal of a man who restored to Scotland and Europe the true gospel of salvation by grace alone. In this 100-page book, Thomson brings to life the times and struggles of Thomas Boston, who began his ministry at 23 and died at 56. Despite the challenges and darkness that gathered both inside and outside the church during his time, Boston shone brightly as a beacon of hope and light.
Thomson's work is not a modernized memoir, but rather a faithful representation of the man and his ministry, with minimal modernization and few footnotes. The book paints a vivid picture of a shepherd who fulfilled his duties with dedication and selflessness, inspiring those around him to draw nearer to God.
Reading "Thomas Boston of Ettrick" is a humbling experience that will challenge and encourage pastors and believers alike. As one reader wrote, "It shamed me as I considered my own pastorate. Yes, the times are different; the church is different; but the calling is the same."
Filled with grace and wisdom, this book is a timely reminder of the power of faith, hope, and love, and the transformative impact of a life fully surrendered to Christ.
This book will benefit pastors, church leaders, and anyone who desires to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith and the challenges of ministry. It is particularly relevant for those who may be facing similar struggles and challenges that Boston encountered during his time.
One of the best features of this book is that it provides a detailed and vivid portrayal of Boston's life and ministry, which can inspire and encourage readers to imitate his example of dedication, selflessness, and faithfulness to the gospel. Additionally, Thomson's writing style is engaging, and he weaves together historical and theological insights seamlessly, making the book an enjoyable read for anyone interested in Christian history and theology. The minimal modernization and few footnotes also lend the book an authentic and historical feel, allowing readers to better connect with the time and context of Boston's ministry. Overall, "Thomas Boston of Ettrick: His Life and Times" is a must-read for anyone seeking to learn from the example of a faithful servant of God.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE.
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTORY.
CHAPTER 2. FROM BIRTH TO EARLY MANHOOD
CHAPTER 3. STUDENT, TUTOR, AND PROBATIONER.
CHAPTER 4. MARRIAGE, MARROW, AND CALLING
Simprin as Mr. Boston found it — Marriage — Redoubled happiness — Death of first-born child — A strange dream strangely fulfilled — The young minister’s efforts to do good — Growing signs of blessing — Story of the finding of the “Marrow” — All Simprin shares the influence — A call from Ettrick.
CHAPTER 5. MR. BOSTON’S FIRST TEN YEARS IN ETTRICK.
Ettrick scenery, history, and people — Great names— Condition of the parish — The Abjuration Oath — Rebellion — False alarms— Call to another parish — Mr. Boston pleads against his removal — Retained in Ettrick — Universal joy.
CHAPTER 6. The Fourfold State
The “Fourfold State” — Incidents — Vast circulation — Communion festivals — Strangers from afar — “Laying by in store” — A great sorrow.
CHAPTER 7. HOME LIFE, STUDY, PULPIT, AND PASTORATE.
CHAPTER 8. HEBREW STUDIES AND FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE.
CHAPTER 9. GATHERING CLOUDS
CHAPTER 10. THE MARROW CONTROVERSY
The “Marrow” controversy — Principal Haddow — the Marrowmen — Whitfield.
CHAPTER 11. THE LAST DECADE.
A lucid interval — Decaying strength — Busy authorship — “The Crook in the Lot” — Flowers from Mr. Boston’s Garden.
CHAPTER 12. HOME IN SIGHT.
CHAPTER 13. SUPPLEMENTARY.
Self-Estimate — Posthumous Works.