Isaac Watts - (T&t Clark Studies in English Theology) by Graham Beynon

About the Book

An exploration of the theology of Issac Watts showing how his views on the role of reason and the place of passion are foundational to his thought.

Book Synopsis

Isaac Watts was an important but relatively unexamined figure and this volume offers a description of his theology, specifically identifying his position on reason and passion as foundational. The book shows how Watts modified a Puritan inherence on both topics in the light of the thought of his day. In particular there is an examination of how he both took on board and reacted against aspects of Enlightenment and sentimentalist thought. Watts' position on these foundational issued of reason and passion are then shown to lie behind his more practical works to revive the church.

Graham Beynon examines the motivation for Watts' work in writing hymns, and the way in which he wrote them; and discusses his preaching and prayer. In each of these practical topics Watts's position is compared to earlier Puritans to show the difference his thinking on reason and passion makes in practice. Isaac Watts is shown to have a coherent position on the foundational issues of reason and passion which drove his view of revival of religion.

Review Quotes

"Beynon has produced an erudite, brilliant investigation into the work of Watts." - Reading Religion

About the Author

Graham Beynon is Minister at the Grace Church in Cambridge, UK, and Director of Independent Ministry Training, Oak Hill College, London, UK.