A Body of Divinity

Testimonials

Submit your testimonial

1. 

   John H. Van Voorhis – 4 August 2014

   I have known of Watson’s “A Body of Divinity” for years, but I did not begin to read it until last year. I have it on my Kindle, thus making it easy for my octogenarian eyes to read, but it is important to own the book as well.

   The book is an absolutely gem. To begin with, every Christian ought to know, if they do not now, that the Westminster Shorter Catechism is a marvelous summary of Christian doctrine. Knowing the Catechism gives the reader a solid foundation of Biblical, Reformed theology. But Watson has written, in a style easily understandable to those without formal theological training, to mine the gold that is contained in the Catechism. By that I mean that Watson’s book is highly experiential, a treasure of Reformed spirituality. I have worked my way through it by reading a portion each day for my devotional time It has been a tremendous blessing and encouragement to me. I highly commend it I would even compare its usefulness with Ryle’s Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.

2. 

   Rev Dr Paul Blackham – 6 September 2014

   This is one of the first theological books I ever read as a boy – together with his volume on The Ten Commandments – so it always held a special place in my affections. I had read it twice in my youth and had dipped back in over the years, but recently got a new copy. Returning to this over the past weeks has been such a joy. Thomas Watson’s style is so easy to read – warm, practical and profound. Each day I have been including a few pages in my morning devotions and I’m urging friends to buy it and do the same! He gets to the real treasure of each doctrine and then explains why it matters so much. Glory to Jesus! Rev Dr Paul Blackham

3. 

   Lex Loizides – 6 August 2015

   I have the joy of owning a Banner first edition of A Body of Divinity and have not subjected it to the numerous underlinings that characterise other engaging books that I have read. Watson has an almost Shakespearean precision of phrasing and a stunning array of incredibly appropriate illustrations. At least two things happen when you read him: you are intellectually sharpened and you are spiritually refreshed. Oh, and a third, you wish that some of his illustrations could still make sense to today’s congregation! A wonderful, wonderful book.

4. 

   Dr. Jenson Lim – 3 November 2016

   This was my first Banner book that I bought in 2000 when I came to the Reformed faith. It was Dr. Peter Masters who recommended this book – it seems he has recommended this to those who grew up in the Met Tab. Despite its Elizabethan English, the way it covers the Westminster Shorter Catechism – with its depth, warmth, challenging yet devotional style of writing makes it worthwhile. Till today I still peruse it for sermon preparation, children’s talk, devotional reading, etc.

5. 

   Judy Notestine – 7 September 2018

   I was late coming to faith, almost 20 years ago, at the age of 57. Although I have been growing and learning through excellent studies and sermons at my church, about a year ago, I developed an intense desire to know more about God. A speaker, in a Ligonier Conference I watched, recommended “A Body of Divinity” as a book that had a great impact on him.
   I go to a women’s Bible study at another church. In the session I attend, we study the Word, itself. The other offerings use books by women authors whom I do not recommend and they typically study “women’s issues.” I have a strong opinion that what women need to study is not “women’s issues”, but rather, solid Bible studies and theology. “A Body of Divinity” was a wonderful find for me. Although first published in 1692, Thomas Watson is a writer for today, as well, with clear explanations of Biblical doctrine, using the structure of the Westminster Shorter Catechism. This is a must read, for sure.

6. 

   Billy – 29 August 2021

   I have feasted on Watson’s Body of Body of Divinity over four times and still thirst for it! So deep a theological mine! I still refer to it and fetch 🔥 from it! I strongly recommend the book! Then proceed to Watson’s other racy works!

7. 

   Billy – 29 August 2021

   I have read it through again and again!