Thomas Watson Collection (7 vols.)

by Thomas Watson; Samuel Lee; John Adey

Publishers:

Robert Carter & Brothers; Religious Tract Society; Gould, Kendall and Lincoln

and

7 more

, 1816–1855

Overview

The Thomas Watson Collection brings to life the valuable insights of this English Puritan and Nonconformist, including many of his sermons, writings, and discourses.

Living in a time when many suffered for their faith, Watson was ejected from the Church of England under the Act of Uniformity in 1662. In his farewell sermon Watson declared, “I feel I must part with my conscience or with my ministry. I choose, therefore, that my ministry be sealed up by my sufferings.”

He was unreserved, tenacious, and sometimes downright contentious—but always filled with tender awe at the love of God and his desire for the salvation of all souls. Watson’s writings are an encouragement to all Christians walking the narrow way. A popular and passionate preacher, Watson did not often write down his sermons, preferring to speak from the heart. The sermons that were preserved, however, have lasted for generations.

Key Features

• Insight into the Nonconformist perspective of the English Restoration
• Watson’s farewell sermon upon being ejected from the church
• Several biographical sketches of Watson

About Thomas Watson

Thomas Watson (1620–1686) was an English vicar, Puritan, and Nonconformist. He received his MA from Emmanuel College in Cambridge. A popular preacher, Watson was rector of St. Stephen’s parish in Walbrook, London for sixteen years, until he was ejected for nonconformity. He continued a private ministry until the Indulgence of 1672, after which he pastored publicly again at Crosby Hall in London until his retirement. He wrote many books, including The Art of Divine Contentment and The Mischief of Sin—but his main work, Body of Divinity: Contained in Sermons upon the Westminster Assembly's Catechism, reflected his passion for preaching with 176 sermons.