Isaac Watts was an important but relatively unexamined figure and this volume offers a description of his theology, specifically identifying his position on reason and passion as foundational. The book shows how Watts modified a Puritan inherence on both topics in the light of the thought of his day. In particular there is an examination of how he both took on board and reacted against aspects of Enlightenment and sentimentalist thought. Watts' position on these foundational issued of reason and passion are then shown to lie behind his more practical works to revive the church. Graham Beynon examines the motivation for Watts' work in writing hymns, and the way in which he wrote them; and discusses his preaching and prayer. In each of these practical topics Watts's position is compared to earlier Puritans to show the difference his thinking on reason and passion makes in practice. Isaac Watts is shown to have a coherent position on the foundational issues of reason and passion which drove his view of revival of religion.

Graham Beynon is Minister at the Grace Church in Cambridge, UK, and Director of Independent Ministry Training, Oak Hill College, London, UK.

Introduction

Part 1: Reason and Passion
Chapter 1: The Role of Reason
Chapter 2: The Place of Passion
Chapter 3: The Art of Preaching

Part 2: The Revival of Religion
Chapter 3: The Art of Preaching
Chapter 4: The Need for Praise
Chapter 5: The Method of Prayer

Conclusion
Bibliography
Index