Thomas Chalmers

Bitesize Biographies

by Sandy Finlayson

Thomas Chalmers (1780-1847) was the first Moderator of the Free Church of Scotland s General Assembly and much, much more. He dominated the history of the Scottish Church in the mid-19th Century and his influence was felt much further afield,through his visionary thinking, writing and leadership. He was passionate about the proclamation of the gospel to the people of Scotland and through missionary work, to the rest of the world. He was a highly acclaimed pastor, theologian, church leader and
social reformer. Called by Thomas Carlyle the chief Scottish man
of his time, he was also a controversial figure who has attracted
both praise and criticism. This book looks at his life in the context
of his times and also seeks to draw lessons from his life for the church today. All Christians pray Thy Kingdom Come . In reading the life of Thomas Chalmers, we see the impact of one man s passionate belief that God s will would be done on earth as it is in heaven.

152 pages, Paperback

First published January 5, 2015

Reviews

[Chris Flick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great biography on an import but seemingly forgotten Scottish pastor. It’s not technical or academic, very much for the lay reader. It’s easy to read. I read it in a couple of sittings. This book has inspired me to read more of Chalmers’s works (I have currently only read his sermon “The Expulsive Power of a New Affection”) and to continue doing certain things in my ministry.

[Miles Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good short biography of Chalmers. The analysis can be a bit reductive and goofy; a lot of these Evangelical presses do that, but its a good rundown of Chalmers' life for a layperson.

[Sydney Jacques · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was all good information, and very concise, but to be totally honest the book was badly written. I enjoyed it though.