Works by Thomas Watson

  • Art of Divine Contentment: An Exposition of Philippians 4:11
    Description: The Apostle Paul, in Phil. 4:11, says "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." Thomas Watson, an English Puritan preacher, wants to teach readers how to gain the same contentment as Paul. Living in the 16th century, Watson believed that discontentment was a sin, and so wrote the book The Art of Divine Contentment: An Exposition of Philippians 4:11. Watson spends the entire book on this one verse, and in doing so, presents Christians with a comprehensive method for becoming content. Centered on the idea that "A gracious spirit is a contented spirit," Watson believes that Christians can be and should be content because of God's wonderful promises to his people. "The way for a man to be contented," Watson says, "is not by raising his estate higher, but by bringing his heart lower." In our contemporary society where discontent is the norm, disillusioned readers will benefit from The Art of Divine Contentment. Watson's content is God-centered rather than focused on material possessions as so many Christians are today, so it is sure to bring comfort to those who strive to be happy in Christ.

    Abby Zwart
    CCEL Staff Writer
  • Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12 [from Institute of Practical Bible Education]
    Description:
  • Body of Divinity
  • Divine Cordial, or, The transcendent priviledge of those that love God and are savingly called ...
  • Lord\'s Prayer
    Description: Thomas Watson was one of the many non-conformist preachers in 17th century England. He was barred from and then reinstated to the ministry several times, but nevertheless continued to preach. Lord's Prayer is the third volume of Watson's series explaining the tenets of Christian faith - the Ten Commandments and the Apostle's Creed are the subjects of the other two. He gives a lengthy exposition of each "petition" in the prayer, which is found in Matthew 6. Watson is heralded as one of the most readable Puritan writers - his style is simpler and less meandering than many of his contemporaries. Some reviewers suggest this book as a preface to more difficult works on prayer such as those by John Owen. It is a wonderful reference for believers who are looking to improve their prayer lives. Readers will be amazed by the vast meaning packed into these simple words, but also struck by the ease with which it can be prayed. This prayer our Lord taught us is of great importance and should be studied and treasured often.

    Abby Zwart
    CCEL Staff Writer
  • Ten Commandments