Thomas Boston

Thomas Boston: Standing Firm for the Gospel

Thomas Boston was born in 1676 in Scotland, during a time when believing the truth could land you in prison. As a boy, he saw his own father jailed for his faith, and he knew that following Christ might one day cost him, too.

When Thomas became a pastor, he discovered a powerful book that helped him understand God’s grace like never before. But not everyone agreed with its message. Soon, a great controversy erupted in the Church of Scotland, and Thomas found himself right in the middle of it.

Instead of backing down, he stood courageously for what he believed—not just for a book, but for the truth of the gospel.

Through this inspiring story, young readers will learn how one humble pastor defended God’s grace with wisdom and boldness, leaving a legacy that still encourages believers today.

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 Car was born in Italy and has lived and worked in different cultures. A former elementary school teacher, she home-schooled 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 from Italian to English, and vice-versa. Presently, she lives in San Diego with her husband Thomas and one of their eight children. She is a member at Christ United Reformed Church.