The Sweet Saint of Scottish Presbyterianism

The Sweet Saint of Scottish Presbyterianism

My biographical assignment led me to the work of Andrew Thomson on the life and times of Thomas Boston. This Mr. Boston, as he was reverently and affectionately addressed and referred to, was the sweet saint of Scottish Presbyterianism. Born in Duns of Berwickshire on March 17, 1676, Boston was destined for greatness. This greatness, however, was to be kingdom oriented and the preparation for it was, for the most part, long and hard. This preparation began with Thomas' early childhood education, after which a short three years of introduction gave occasion for the "supreme influence of the religion of Christ." He came to faith in Christ at an early age under the ministry of Mr. Erskine. Shortly after he was compelled to enter the ministry and sought further education at Edinburgh University. However, due to financial constraints, Mr. Boston was providentially enrolled in "God's school." It wasn't until the winter of 1695 that Boston was able to resume theological studies in a formal setting. He was a student, tutor, and a probationer during this time.

The end of this education period led Mr. Boston to take his first charge as pastor of the church at Simprin. This was a small church that was in dire need of a spiritual shepherd. Mr. Boston was that man, sent from God in the truest sense. Trough his ministry, this church was radically changed. This change came through Boston's commitment to expository preaching, and loving, sacrificial leadership. He devoted seven years of his life here at Simprin prior to receiving a call to become the minister of another parish--the parish of Ettrick. This was a trying time, and because of his love for the Simprin flock, he appealed the assembly's call, yet was willing to do whatever the Lord's will might be. The Lord willed for Boston to serve the needy and weary flock of Ettrick.

Here he spent the rest of his days in unfailing faithfulness to Christ, His message, and His people. He had a growing influence in his preaching, writing, and stand for truth in trying times. His preaching developed as the result of him coming across "the Marrow of Divinity." His writing took shape primarily and most powerfully in his "Fourfold State" of man. His stand for truth came to the fore when he defended the purity of the gospel against the laxity and leniency of the general assembly toward some men who sought to subvert and pervert the gospel truth. He was branded a "Marrowman" and in divine providence, was used to safeguard the truth. This baton of pure gospel truth was shortly afterward picked up by scores of missionaries and the gospel ran its circuit throughout the earth.

Mr. Boston also had difficulties