Isaac Watts

Isaac Watts (1674-1748) is one of the best-known hymn-Writers in history. He wrote over 700 hymns including the well-known “When I survey the Wondrous Cross”, “O God, our help in ages past” and “Jesus shall reign where’er the sun” – hymns which are still sung to this day. Brought up in a non-conformist church and family, Isaac Watts knew what it was to be a pastor whilst also battling prolonged periods of illness. Leading a life, that like us all, was not without difficulty or controversy, he was able to write hymns of almost unparalleled depth and beauty, though they were often unappreciated by his own congregation. This fascinating study considers his life, writings and continuing influence on Christians today, in a way that will illuminate and inspire.

About the Author
Graham Beynon is minister of Grace Church, Cambridge. He is also the course director for TEAM (Training for East Anglia Ministry). His PhD research was on the theology of Isaac Watts. He is married to Charis and they have three children

Endorsements

In this thoroughly enjoyable and stimulating book, Graham Beynon does an excellent job of showing just how relevant Watts and his thought are for today. We get to see how his beautiful hymnody flowed out of deep theological and pastoral convictions, and the result is both challenging and stirring.

Michael Reeves, President and Professor of Theology, Union School of Theology, Bridgend, Wales

I can think of few men who have impacted my life and thought more than Isaac Watts. He is a model pastor, thinker and poet. In this engaging and thorough book, Graham Beynon presents a full and fascinating picture of Watts’ legacy, from his hymns to his pastoral work to his logic. In an age of celebrity pastors, heavy on flash and low on substance, Watts presents an alternate vision: a rigorous mind at work for the glory of God and the good of the church.

Mike Cosper, Pastor of Worship and Arts, Sojourn Community Church, Louisville, Kentucky

Beynon’s own style is uniformly smooth and clear… a worthy and helpful introduction to an important 18th-century character and man of God.

The Monthly Record, Magazine of the Free Church of Scotland

All of us have benefited from the ministry of the hymn writer, Isaac Watts His courage to promote a Biblical theology of hymnody united with his competency to produce hymns of musical excellence while singable for congregations, marked by excellence in style and Biblical faithfulness have provided a legacy which finds its fulfillment in the worship of the triune God of glory. But now, in this volume, Graham Beynon, allows us to meet Isaac Watts, himself, his redeemed life, saturated with the grace of God and absorbed with the glory of God. It will be hard to stop turning the pages.

Harry L. Reeder III, Senior Pastor, Briarwood Presbyterian Church, Birmingham, Alabama