
Carr, Simonetta
Description
Thomas Boston was born in 1676 in Duns, Scotland, during a time of religious conflict. Seeing his father imprisoned for his beliefs, Thomas understood that he too might suffer for his faith someday. As a young pastor, Thomas discovered an important book that helped him understand God’s grace more clearly. As helpful as that book was, it also sparked debate in the Church of Scotland and plunged Thomas and other pastors into a heated controversy. Read how Thomas stood firmly in the face of opposition, defending more than just a book—he was defending the truth of the gospel.
Contents
Introduction
Chapter 1—Growing Up in Challenging Times
Chapter 2—God’s School
Chapter 3—A Life-Changing Book
Chapter 4—Joys and Sorrows
Chapter 5—Defending the Gospel
Chapter 6—Life’s Last Storms
Time Line
Did You Know?
From Boston’s Pen
Acknowledgments
Endorsements
"Thomas Boston was a hero for the gospel just when the Scottish Kirk needed one. With his friends, he stood for the old-fashioned Reformation message of salvation by God’s favor alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone when many others had forgotten or rejected it. There is no one better to tell his story to young people and their parents than Simonetta Carr, and she has not disappointed. Families, congregations, and schools will be blessed by adding this volume to their collection.”
—R. Scott Clark, professor of church history and historical theology, Westminster Seminary California
“This is a wonderful book that introduces young readers to Thomas Boston and his faith and theology. Simonetta Carr brings to life the doctrine and belief of this Scottish theologian by simple, unpatronizing explanations. Through Simonetta’s pen, we see how Boston’s doctrines were more than just textual. His faith truly impacted his life. His belief in the sovereignty of God and the covenant of grace powerfully transformed his experience of death. Six of his children passed away before adulthood—yet he knew that God’s covenant of grace includes both believers and their children. ‘None of them is lost,’ he said. ‘I will see them all at the resurrection.’ Boston was a practical and spiritual man who desired to build up God’s church and evangelize the lost. Through Simonetta’s words, this man though dead yet speaks. The Christian Biographies for Young Readers series continues to strengthen the church.”
—Catherine Mackenzie, children’s editor, Christian Focus Publications and writer for the Trailblazer series
“Thomas Boston knew the power of the gospel to change sinners into beloved children of God, and he was courageous with that gospel. In this elegant new book, Simonetta Carr introduces Boston to a new generation. I pray God will use this effort to raise up more defenders of God’s free and overpowering grace.”
—Stephen G. Myers, professor of systematic and historical theology, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary
About the Author
Simonetta Carr was born in Italy and has lived and worked in different cultures. A former elementary school teacher, she homeschooled her eight children for many years. She has written for newspapers and magazines around the world and has translated the works of several Christian authors into Italian. Presently, she lives in San Diego with her husband, Thomas, and family. She is a member at Christ United Reformed Church, Santee, California.