Synopsis
If there is any work among the myriad volumes of Puritan works that can properly be considered a Systematic Theology, Thomas Watson's "A Body of Divinity" is undoubtedly that work. Rich with metaphor, concise, and drenched in Scripture, Watson's seminal magnum opus has endured throughout the centuries as a magnificent cornerstone of Puritan thought. Written as a commentary on the Westminster Shorter Catechism, "A Body of Divinity" exposits the Cathechism, beginning with the question "What is the Chief End of Man?" Watson continues on to matters of Theology Proper (the Attributes of God), Anthropology (the Nature of Man), Christology, the Covenant of Works and the Covenant of Grace (Soteriology), and Eschatology (Last Things). For a study of Puritan thought and theology, "A Body of Divinity" remains a fantastic starting point. Every effort in this edition has been made to correct erroneous Scripture references present in older editions. Printed in 10 pt type. Thomas Watson was an English, Nonconformist, Puritan preacher and author. He was educated at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, where he was noted for remarkably intense study. In 1646 he commenced a sixteen-year pastorate at St. Stephen's, Walbrook. He showed strong Presbyterian views during the civil war, with, however, an attachment to the king, and in 1651 he was imprisoned briefly with some other ministers for his share in Christopher Love's plot to recall Charles II of England. He was released on 30 June 1652, and was formally reinstated as vicar of St. Stephen's Walbrook. He obtained great fame and popularity as a preacher until the Restoration, when he was ejected for Nonconformity. Notwithstanding the rigor of the acts against dissenters, Watson continued to exercise his ministry privately as he found opportunity. Upon the Declaration of Indulgence in 1672 he obtained a licence to preach at the great hall in Crosby House. After preaching there for several years, his health gave way, and he retired to Barnston, Essex, where he died suddenly while praying in secret. He was buried on 28 July 1686.
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