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Human Nature in Fourfold State
'If there is one book that more than any other stands out as representative of the best of our Scottish religious classics it is Human Nature in its Fourfold State .' — JOHN MACLEOD
Of primitive integrity, entire depravity, begun recovery, and consumate happiness or misery.
It is evident why Boston’s work enjoyed such popularity. So basic is his material, and so thorough his presentation of it, the Human Nature in its Fourfold State speaks to the spiritual needs of every reader. For those who ask about the origin and meaning of human existence, Boston provides the biblical answer; for those who are confused about the Christian gospel, Boston explains its meaning and its power.
Of primitive integrity, entire depravity, begun recovery, and consumate happiness or misery.
It is evident why Boston’s work enjoyed such popularity. So basic is his material, and so thorough his presentation of it, the Human Nature in its Fourfold State speaks to the spiritual needs of every reader. For those who ask about the origin and meaning of human existence, Boston provides the biblical answer; for those who are confused about the Christian gospel, Boston explains its meaning and its power.
512 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1863
112 people are currently reading
387 people want to read
About the author
Thomas Boston
453 books26 followersThomas Boston was a Scottish church leader.
He was born at Duns. His father, John Boston, and his mother, Alison Trotter, were both Covenanters. He was educated at Edinburgh, and licensed in 1697 by the presbytery of Chirnside. In 1699 he became minister of the small parish of Simprin, where there were only 90 examinable persons; previously, he was a schoolmaster in Glencairn. In 1704 he found, while visiting a member of his flock, a book brought into Scotland by a commonwealth soldier. This was the famous Marrow of Modern Divinity, by Edward Fisher, a compendium of the opinions of leading Reformation divines on the doctrine of grace and the offer of the Gospel, which set off the Marrow Controversy.
Its object was to demonstrate the unconditional freeness of the Gospel. It cleared away such conditions as repentance, or some degree of outward or inward reformation, and argued that where Christ is heartily received, full repentance and a new life follow. On Boston's recommendation, James Hog of Carnock reprinted The Marrow in 1718; and Boston also published an edition with notes of his own. The book, being attacked from the standpoint of high Calvinism, became the standard of a far-reaching movement in Scottish Presbyterianism.
The Marrow men were marked by the zeal of their service and the effect of their preaching. As they remained Calvinists they could not preach a universal atonement; rather they were particular redemptionists. In 1707 Boston was translated to Ettrick, Scotland. He was the only member of the assembly who entered a protest against the lightness of the sentence passed on John Simson, Professor of Divinity at Glasgow, who was accused of heterodox teaching on the Incarnation.
Boston has been described as a man of singular piety and amiability, although unduly introspective. His autobiography is an interesting record of Scottish life, full of sincerity and tenderness, and not devoid of humorous touches, intentional and otherwise. His books include The Fourfold State, one of the religious classics of Scotland; The Crook in the Lot, a little book noted for its originality; and his Body of Divinity and Miscellanies. These works had a powerful influence over the Scottish peasantry. Among his works is a learned treatise on Hebrew points. His Memoirs were published in 1776 (ed. GD Low, 1908). An edition of his works in 12 volumes appeared in 1849.
He was born at Duns. His father, John Boston, and his mother, Alison Trotter, were both Covenanters. He was educated at Edinburgh, and licensed in 1697 by the presbytery of Chirnside. In 1699 he became minister of the small parish of Simprin, where there were only 90 examinable persons; previously, he was a schoolmaster in Glencairn. In 1704 he found, while visiting a member of his flock, a book brought into Scotland by a commonwealth soldier. This was the famous Marrow of Modern Divinity, by Edward Fisher, a compendium of the opinions of leading Reformation divines on the doctrine of grace and the offer of the Gospel, which set off the Marrow Controversy.
Its object was to demonstrate the unconditional freeness of the Gospel. It cleared away such conditions as repentance, or some degree of outward or inward reformation, and argued that where Christ is heartily received, full repentance and a new life follow. On Boston's recommendation, James Hog of Carnock reprinted The Marrow in 1718; and Boston also published an edition with notes of his own. The book, being attacked from the standpoint of high Calvinism, became the standard of a far-reaching movement in Scottish Presbyterianism.
The Marrow men were marked by the zeal of their service and the effect of their preaching. As they remained Calvinists they could not preach a universal atonement; rather they were particular redemptionists. In 1707 Boston was translated to Ettrick, Scotland. He was the only member of the assembly who entered a protest against the lightness of the sentence passed on John Simson, Professor of Divinity at Glasgow, who was accused of heterodox teaching on the Incarnation.
Boston has been described as a man of singular piety and amiability, although unduly introspective. His autobiography is an interesting record of Scottish life, full of sincerity and tenderness, and not devoid of humorous touches, intentional and otherwise. His books include The Fourfold State, one of the religious classics of Scotland; The Crook in the Lot, a little book noted for its originality; and his Body of Divinity and Miscellanies. These works had a powerful influence over the Scottish peasantry. Among his works is a learned treatise on Hebrew points. His Memoirs were published in 1776 (ed. GD Low, 1908). An edition of his works in 12 volumes appeared in 1849.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 6, 2016
A staggering achievement in theological study and religious philosophy, Scottish theologian Thomas Boston set out to analyze human nature from a purely Christian perspective. Simply put, Boston sees man in four states: the State of Innocence, the State of Nature (the sinfulness of man's natural state, man's fallen state), the State of Grace (born again, regeneration) and the Eternal State (death).
"The will of man, then, was directed and naturally inclined to God and goodness, though mutable."
In this extended study, Boston pinpoints man's descent from 'habitual righteousness' to abusing the freedom of his own will (note the above quote: 'though mutable', or, 'liable to change'), then achieving a state of regeneration and enlightenment before tasting the joys of heaven upon death. This is old school Christian theology: Deep, hard going, intense, systematically Christian and rewarding in the end. Boston takes on everyone, religious or not, in his study of human nature.
After the short first part on the state of our habitual righteousness, the prose turns apocalyptic in tone (echoing John Knox), as Boston dissects the fallen state in which we exist, church goers or not. I actually think the church goers get it worse than the atheists in this book. So few will readily admit, paraphrasing Boston, that they may engage in all the outward duties of religion, and yet not be born again. The life of every man (in his natural state) is essentially a continued dream out of which he never awakes. And when you realise this, you ask yourself: How many people are truly Christian in these so-called Christian nations? "True religion [is] such a burden to carnal men," says Boston, "he is a spiritual monster." He acknowledges just how many Bibles have gathered dust in Christian households.
"As soon as it appears that we are rational creatures it appears that we are sinful creatures."
So Thomas Boston asks: What is your life? You can't flee from your wrath in a morning dream. It's a lifelong passion, a passion to look within us, where our greatest enemy lies and become enlightened in the knowledge of our sins. Boston sets the reader on a deep journey into the Christian life. As a reader, it provided me with some fascinating insights from the mind of Thomas Boston, with additional support from selected quotes from the Bible. Although I didn't fully agree with certain theories and I, admittedly, passed by some parts in the final section, I give this book nothing but praise for its unbelievably deep, rewarding account of one man and his intense devotion to Christianity.
"He who would walk aright must have one eye upward to Jesus Christ, and another inward to the corruption of his own nature."
"The will of man, then, was directed and naturally inclined to God and goodness, though mutable."
In this extended study, Boston pinpoints man's descent from 'habitual righteousness' to abusing the freedom of his own will (note the above quote: 'though mutable', or, 'liable to change'), then achieving a state of regeneration and enlightenment before tasting the joys of heaven upon death. This is old school Christian theology: Deep, hard going, intense, systematically Christian and rewarding in the end. Boston takes on everyone, religious or not, in his study of human nature.
After the short first part on the state of our habitual righteousness, the prose turns apocalyptic in tone (echoing John Knox), as Boston dissects the fallen state in which we exist, church goers or not. I actually think the church goers get it worse than the atheists in this book. So few will readily admit, paraphrasing Boston, that they may engage in all the outward duties of religion, and yet not be born again. The life of every man (in his natural state) is essentially a continued dream out of which he never awakes. And when you realise this, you ask yourself: How many people are truly Christian in these so-called Christian nations? "True religion [is] such a burden to carnal men," says Boston, "he is a spiritual monster." He acknowledges just how many Bibles have gathered dust in Christian households.
"As soon as it appears that we are rational creatures it appears that we are sinful creatures."
So Thomas Boston asks: What is your life? You can't flee from your wrath in a morning dream. It's a lifelong passion, a passion to look within us, where our greatest enemy lies and become enlightened in the knowledge of our sins. Boston sets the reader on a deep journey into the Christian life. As a reader, it provided me with some fascinating insights from the mind of Thomas Boston, with additional support from selected quotes from the Bible. Although I didn't fully agree with certain theories and I, admittedly, passed by some parts in the final section, I give this book nothing but praise for its unbelievably deep, rewarding account of one man and his intense devotion to Christianity.
"He who would walk aright must have one eye upward to Jesus Christ, and another inward to the corruption of his own nature."
January 26, 2011
One of the most significant works I have read on man in his pre-fallen state, fallen state, regenerate state, and glorified state. Boston is magnificent.
May 3, 2023
A magnificent book—one of the finest I have read, that surpassed the high expectations I had for it.
Rich in doctrine and stirring in exhortation (especially the final two chapters on heaven and hell)—it is especially worthwhile to read Boston’s regular and natural evangelistic pleas for sinners to come to Jesus Christ for salvation. Then to reflect, “these were sermons!” Truly, here’s a model, a worthwhile guide, for how to preach doctrine and how to preach evangelistically.
Friend, tolle lege—take up and read!
Rich in doctrine and stirring in exhortation (especially the final two chapters on heaven and hell)—it is especially worthwhile to read Boston’s regular and natural evangelistic pleas for sinners to come to Jesus Christ for salvation. Then to reflect, “these were sermons!” Truly, here’s a model, a worthwhile guide, for how to preach doctrine and how to preach evangelistically.
Friend, tolle lege—take up and read!
May 10, 2015
Best.Book.Ever.
May 8, 2019
Well...that settles that.
April 18, 2015
Quotes
"While the fire-edge is upon the young convert, he looks upon others, reputed to be godly, and not finding them in such a temper or disposition as himself, he is ready to censure them, and to think there is far less religion in the world than indeed there is." Thomas Boston, Humankind In Its Fourfold State, pp. 237-8.
"The solemn assemblies, and public ordinances, wherein the Judge is upon a transaction of peace with the criminals, are undervalued : men's hearts swim like feathers in the waters of the sanctuary, that sink like stones to the bottom in cares of this life; they will be very serious in trifles of this world, and trifle in the most serious and weighty things of another world. 0 consider the day that is approaching, in which Christ will come to judgment!" Thomas Boston, Humankind In Its Fourfold State, p. 427.
"Man naturally desires to be happy, being conscious to himself that he is not self-sufficient he has ever a desire of something without himself, to make him happy; and the soul being, by its natural make and constitution, capable of enjoying God, and nothing else being commensurable to its desires, it can never have true and solid rest till it rests in the enjoyment of God. This desire of happiness the rational creature can never lay aside, no, not in hell. Now, while the wicked are on earth, they seek their satisfaction in the creature: and when one fails, they go to another: thus they spend their time in the world, deceiving their own souls with vain hopes. But, in the other world, all comfort in the creatures failing, and the shadows which they are now pursuing having all of them vanished in a moment, they shall be totally and finally separated from God, and see they have thus lost Him. So the doors of earth and heaven both are shut against them at once. This will create them unspeakable anguish, while they shall live under an eternal gnawing hunger after happiness, which they certainly know shall never be in the least measure satisfied, all doors being closed on em. Who then can imagine how this separation from God shall cut the damned to the heart! how they will roar and rage under it! and how it will sting and gnaw them trough the ages of eternity!" Thomas Boston, Humankind In Its Fourfold State, p. 480.
"While the fire-edge is upon the young convert, he looks upon others, reputed to be godly, and not finding them in such a temper or disposition as himself, he is ready to censure them, and to think there is far less religion in the world than indeed there is." Thomas Boston, Humankind In Its Fourfold State, pp. 237-8.
"The solemn assemblies, and public ordinances, wherein the Judge is upon a transaction of peace with the criminals, are undervalued : men's hearts swim like feathers in the waters of the sanctuary, that sink like stones to the bottom in cares of this life; they will be very serious in trifles of this world, and trifle in the most serious and weighty things of another world. 0 consider the day that is approaching, in which Christ will come to judgment!" Thomas Boston, Humankind In Its Fourfold State, p. 427.
"Man naturally desires to be happy, being conscious to himself that he is not self-sufficient he has ever a desire of something without himself, to make him happy; and the soul being, by its natural make and constitution, capable of enjoying God, and nothing else being commensurable to its desires, it can never have true and solid rest till it rests in the enjoyment of God. This desire of happiness the rational creature can never lay aside, no, not in hell. Now, while the wicked are on earth, they seek their satisfaction in the creature: and when one fails, they go to another: thus they spend their time in the world, deceiving their own souls with vain hopes. But, in the other world, all comfort in the creatures failing, and the shadows which they are now pursuing having all of them vanished in a moment, they shall be totally and finally separated from God, and see they have thus lost Him. So the doors of earth and heaven both are shut against them at once. This will create them unspeakable anguish, while they shall live under an eternal gnawing hunger after happiness, which they certainly know shall never be in the least measure satisfied, all doors being closed on em. Who then can imagine how this separation from God shall cut the damned to the heart! how they will roar and rage under it! and how it will sting and gnaw them trough the ages of eternity!" Thomas Boston, Humankind In Its Fourfold State, p. 480.
December 31, 2016
The fourfold state of the title is man in paradise, as fallen, as regenerate, and in the future state. In examining man in these four states, Boston provides a full systematic theology. The tone, however, is not academic (though the content is rigorous) but hortatory.
June 28, 2013
Quite good, though quite 18th century as well. Boston wasn't easy reading, but I'm glad I worked through this one.
March 19, 2020
Super mooi boek. Best zwaar om te lezen, maar erg indrukwekkend en ontdekkend
June 15, 2021
Human Nature in its Fourfold State by Thomas Boston (1676-1732) may just be the preeminent work on biblical anthropology (the doctrine of man). Boston, a Scottish Presbyterian pastor who is perhaps best known for his role in the Marrow Controversy, undertakes a very thorough study of the nature and condition of man in the four states described in paragraphs 2-5 of chapter 9 of the Westminster Confession of Faith: The states of innocence (pre-fall), nature (fallen), grace (redeemed), and eternity (glory or damnation). As he says at the beginning of the first chapter,
I believe that he is absolutely right about this. The Christian faith begins with knowing who God is, but next in importance is knowing who we are in relation to God. The overarching story of the Bible is Christ's redemption of sinners, which he accomplished by becoming a man, living a perfect life, dying in our place to pay for our sins, and rising from the grave, defeating death and obtaining our eternal life. We need, therefore, to understand why we are sinners in need of salvation through the covenantal relationship we were made in with Adam, since Christ is the new Adam for those he has redeemed, God having established a new covenant with him (Rom 5:12-21; 1 Cor 15:21,22,45).
I'd go so far as to say that one of the biggest failures of many churches today is their failure to adequately teach on this subject. So many of the cultural challenges facing Christians are answered by a right, biblical understanding of human nature, and the lack of understanding in this area has left Christians impotent in the face of these challenges. So, I would recommend this book to everyone, and I would especially encourage pastors and Christian teachers to read it and to teach these things to their congregations and students.
Despite its age, the book is well-written and easy to read, at least in comparison to some other well-known authors from the time period. Boston is a very lucid communicator, and so it's no wonder that many people loved to hear him preach in his day. He is thorough and to the point, avoiding speculation about things that the Bible isn't clear on, and he lays out his doctrine systematically and supports it all with extensive scripture references. I've bought a copy of The Marrow of Modern Divinity with his annotations, and I am looking forward to getting into that soon as well.
There are four things very necessary to be known by all that would see heaven: 1. What man was in the state of innocence, as God made him. 2. What he is in the state of corrupt nature, as he hath unmade himself. 3. What he must be in the state of grace, as created in Christ Jesus unto good works, if ever he be made a partaker of the inheritance of the saints in light. 4. What he will be in his eternal state, as made by the Judge of all, either perfectly happy, or completely miserable, and that forever. These are weighty points, that touch the vitals of practical godliness, from which most men, and even many professors, in these dregs of time, are quite estranged. I design, therefore, under the divine conduct, to open these things, and apply them.
I believe that he is absolutely right about this. The Christian faith begins with knowing who God is, but next in importance is knowing who we are in relation to God. The overarching story of the Bible is Christ's redemption of sinners, which he accomplished by becoming a man, living a perfect life, dying in our place to pay for our sins, and rising from the grave, defeating death and obtaining our eternal life. We need, therefore, to understand why we are sinners in need of salvation through the covenantal relationship we were made in with Adam, since Christ is the new Adam for those he has redeemed, God having established a new covenant with him (Rom 5:12-21; 1 Cor 15:21,22,45).
I'd go so far as to say that one of the biggest failures of many churches today is their failure to adequately teach on this subject. So many of the cultural challenges facing Christians are answered by a right, biblical understanding of human nature, and the lack of understanding in this area has left Christians impotent in the face of these challenges. So, I would recommend this book to everyone, and I would especially encourage pastors and Christian teachers to read it and to teach these things to their congregations and students.
Despite its age, the book is well-written and easy to read, at least in comparison to some other well-known authors from the time period. Boston is a very lucid communicator, and so it's no wonder that many people loved to hear him preach in his day. He is thorough and to the point, avoiding speculation about things that the Bible isn't clear on, and he lays out his doctrine systematically and supports it all with extensive scripture references. I've bought a copy of The Marrow of Modern Divinity with his annotations, and I am looking forward to getting into that soon as well.
September 30, 2025
Detailed study of the 4 spiritual states a human can be in: innocent (before Fall), fallen, saved, and eternally in heaven or hell. It explains the doctrines of grace (Reformed soteriology) well, and includes plenty of verses. The book is somewhat repetitive.
I read the free modernized ebook from Monergism (the original is also available at the same link).
Notes
The State of Innocence
Of Man’s Original Righteousness
The image of God includes knowledge, righteousness, true holiness (Col 3:10; Eph 4:24).
Flowing from Man's Primitive State
Death penalty for disobedience (Gen 2:17) was temporal, spiritual, and eternal. When Adam & Eve fell, they were legally dead, but execution was postponed for sake of future descendants. Process of physical death began. They spiritually died by losing righteousness and God's favor. They became liable to eternal death, which would have occurred if not for Christ.
The Doctrine of the State of Innocence Applied
The Fall didn't "diminish God's right to demand perfect obedience from His creatures and punish them for disobedience."
The State of Nature
The Sinfulness of Man's Natural State
Verses about total depravity: Job 25:4; Ps 10:4; 14:1-3; 51:5; Jn 3:6; 6:44; 15:5; Eph 2:1-5; Rom 1:18-32; 3:9-18; 6:15-20; 7:8-13; 8:7; Col 1:21; Ezek 36:26; 1 Cor 2:14; Acts 16:14
Do you commit sins you'd be ashamed to commit in front of a child, ignoring that God sees all?
When Jesus healed the man's eyes with mud (Jn 9), He was showing the spiritual blindness of the unregenerate. Isa 6:10 & 44:18 describe the unregenerate as having eyes plastered over.
The Corruption of the Will
Unregenerate have ability to choose and act, and can superficially keep parts of God's law, but can't do anything truly good & pleasing to God because they don't see the spiritual essence of the law; they rebel against it (Eph 2:1; Jn 15:5; Rom 7:8-13; 8:7).
If the will were naturally balanced between good and evil, choosing one would be as easy as the other, and we know that's not true.
Unregenerate don't have free will, but "enslaved lust"; they're free to do evil, but not good, until grace of regeneration frees them.
The Corruption of the Conscience
Adam was as capable of not falling as any of his descendants would've been.
Infants don't have actual sin, but do have sinful nature from original sin, so it isn't unjust that they die (Ezek 18:4).
The Misery of Humanity's Natural Condition
If you've never seen yourself as unregenerate, it's a sure sign you are. "You cannot be on the path to heaven if you have never recognized yourselves as being naturally on the road to hell."
God hates and is displeased with unregenerate (Ps 5:5; 7:11; 11:6-7; Heb 11:6; Pro 1:26, 32; 3:33; 15:8; Deut 28:17; Mal 2:2;; Ezek 5:13).
Even seemingly positive things are curses, not blessings, to unregenerate (Deut 28:17; Pro 1:32; Mal 2:2).
Verses about reprobation: Isa 6:10; 44:18; 2 Thess 2:11
Unregenerate are under covenant of works (Rom 6:14; Mt 5:17-18; Gal 3:10).
God is infinitely just, so He must punish sin, and the execution of His wrath pleases Him. Although God doesn't take pleasure in the death of the unregenerate as the destruction of His creatures, He does delight in it as it's the execution of His justice (Ps 11:6-7; Ezek 5:13; Pro 1:26).
The State of Grace
On Regeneration
Examine your salvation
• Has your mind been illuminated with knowledge of God?
• Do you see the sinfulness of your fallen state?
• Do you understand the seriousness of your sin?
• Do you see Jesus as wise, excellent, sufficient, and all created things as insufficient?
• Has your will become averse to sin and inclined toward righteousness?
• Is God your ultimate purpose (Isa 26:8)?
• Does your will conform to God's will (at least to some extent)?
• Do you receive Christ as He's offered in the gospel?
• Are your hopes placed in God?
• Do you love God and hate your sin?
• Does offending God bring sorrow?
• Do you fear sin more than suffering?
• Have you decreased your love for earthly things and increased your love for God?
• Have you consecrated your body to serve God?
• Do you love believers (1 Jn 3:14; 5:1; Eph 1:15)?
Don't conclude you're not saved because you have remaining sin, as long as you hate it, fight it, and repent (Pro 24:16; Gal 5:17; Rom 7:23). Let the remaining sin humble you, make you more vigilant, intensify your desire for Christ.
Don't conclude you're not saved because you have more intense affection for earthly things than for God. The test isn't the strength of your affections, but whether you'd part with earthly things for Christ.
Mystical Union between Christ and Believers
Union with Christ lasts forever; it can't be broken (Jn 10:28-30; Rom 8:38-39).
All Christians grow spiritually, but not necessarily constantly; there are times Christians go dormant or regress, as trees do in winter.
Don't judge your salvation based on current feelings, but by observing spiritual growth over time.
Don't expect to grow in all aspects equally. At times you may see no growth in certain areas, but don't overlook growth in other areas.
The Eternal State
Difference between the Righteous and the Wicked in Their Death
Many people are more motivated by fear (escaping pain in afterlife) than by hope (enjoying heaven), so they aren't motivated to mortify sin and live holy lives.
When our heart is disentangled from the world and already focused on heaven, then we're ready for heaven (Mt 6:21).
The General Judgment
When God opens book of remembrance, He will read aloud for all to hear each person's indictment and record of thoughts, words, deeds.
When God opens book of life, He will reveal to all those who are elect.
Rev 20:12 says people will be "judged according to their works," but that doesn't mean elect earn salvation; kingdom they are called to was prepared for them from the foundation of the world (Mt 25:34). Their works are result of Holy Spirit sanctifying them, and aren't grounds for, but evidence of, entitlement to heaven.
Universe won't be annihilated, but dissolved, purified, renewed (2 Pet 3:7-13). Flood purified earth without annihilating it (2 Pet 3:6-7).
The Kingdom of Heaven
That saints will see God (Mt 5:8; Rev 22:4) means they will have perfect, complete understanding of God and theology. This is beatific vision. They’ll also physically see Jesus, Who still has His physical body.
On Hell
Wicked will continue to sin eternally in hell, consumed by rage, envy, resentment (Mt 8:12), blasphemy (Rev 16:21).
"It is undoubtedly easier to endure intense convictions in this life if they lead us to Christ than to have them permanently fixed in our conscience and to be eternally separated from Him in hell."
I read the free modernized ebook from Monergism (the original is also available at the same link).
Notes
The State of Innocence
Of Man’s Original Righteousness
The image of God includes knowledge, righteousness, true holiness (Col 3:10; Eph 4:24).
Flowing from Man's Primitive State
Death penalty for disobedience (Gen 2:17) was temporal, spiritual, and eternal. When Adam & Eve fell, they were legally dead, but execution was postponed for sake of future descendants. Process of physical death began. They spiritually died by losing righteousness and God's favor. They became liable to eternal death, which would have occurred if not for Christ.
The Doctrine of the State of Innocence Applied
The Fall didn't "diminish God's right to demand perfect obedience from His creatures and punish them for disobedience."
The State of Nature
The Sinfulness of Man's Natural State
Verses about total depravity: Job 25:4; Ps 10:4; 14:1-3; 51:5; Jn 3:6; 6:44; 15:5; Eph 2:1-5; Rom 1:18-32; 3:9-18; 6:15-20; 7:8-13; 8:7; Col 1:21; Ezek 36:26; 1 Cor 2:14; Acts 16:14
Do you commit sins you'd be ashamed to commit in front of a child, ignoring that God sees all?
When Jesus healed the man's eyes with mud (Jn 9), He was showing the spiritual blindness of the unregenerate. Isa 6:10 & 44:18 describe the unregenerate as having eyes plastered over.
The Corruption of the Will
Unregenerate have ability to choose and act, and can superficially keep parts of God's law, but can't do anything truly good & pleasing to God because they don't see the spiritual essence of the law; they rebel against it (Eph 2:1; Jn 15:5; Rom 7:8-13; 8:7).
If the will were naturally balanced between good and evil, choosing one would be as easy as the other, and we know that's not true.
Unregenerate don't have free will, but "enslaved lust"; they're free to do evil, but not good, until grace of regeneration frees them.
The Corruption of the Conscience
Adam was as capable of not falling as any of his descendants would've been.
Infants don't have actual sin, but do have sinful nature from original sin, so it isn't unjust that they die (Ezek 18:4).
The Misery of Humanity's Natural Condition
If you've never seen yourself as unregenerate, it's a sure sign you are. "You cannot be on the path to heaven if you have never recognized yourselves as being naturally on the road to hell."
God hates and is displeased with unregenerate (Ps 5:5; 7:11; 11:6-7; Heb 11:6; Pro 1:26, 32; 3:33; 15:8; Deut 28:17; Mal 2:2;; Ezek 5:13).
Even seemingly positive things are curses, not blessings, to unregenerate (Deut 28:17; Pro 1:32; Mal 2:2).
Verses about reprobation: Isa 6:10; 44:18; 2 Thess 2:11
Unregenerate are under covenant of works (Rom 6:14; Mt 5:17-18; Gal 3:10).
God is infinitely just, so He must punish sin, and the execution of His wrath pleases Him. Although God doesn't take pleasure in the death of the unregenerate as the destruction of His creatures, He does delight in it as it's the execution of His justice (Ps 11:6-7; Ezek 5:13; Pro 1:26).
The State of Grace
On Regeneration
Examine your salvation
• Has your mind been illuminated with knowledge of God?
• Do you see the sinfulness of your fallen state?
• Do you understand the seriousness of your sin?
• Do you see Jesus as wise, excellent, sufficient, and all created things as insufficient?
• Has your will become averse to sin and inclined toward righteousness?
• Is God your ultimate purpose (Isa 26:8)?
• Does your will conform to God's will (at least to some extent)?
• Do you receive Christ as He's offered in the gospel?
• Are your hopes placed in God?
• Do you love God and hate your sin?
• Does offending God bring sorrow?
• Do you fear sin more than suffering?
• Have you decreased your love for earthly things and increased your love for God?
• Have you consecrated your body to serve God?
• Do you love believers (1 Jn 3:14; 5:1; Eph 1:15)?
Don't conclude you're not saved because you have remaining sin, as long as you hate it, fight it, and repent (Pro 24:16; Gal 5:17; Rom 7:23). Let the remaining sin humble you, make you more vigilant, intensify your desire for Christ.
Don't conclude you're not saved because you have more intense affection for earthly things than for God. The test isn't the strength of your affections, but whether you'd part with earthly things for Christ.
Mystical Union between Christ and Believers
Union with Christ lasts forever; it can't be broken (Jn 10:28-30; Rom 8:38-39).
All Christians grow spiritually, but not necessarily constantly; there are times Christians go dormant or regress, as trees do in winter.
Don't judge your salvation based on current feelings, but by observing spiritual growth over time.
Don't expect to grow in all aspects equally. At times you may see no growth in certain areas, but don't overlook growth in other areas.
The Eternal State
Difference between the Righteous and the Wicked in Their Death
Many people are more motivated by fear (escaping pain in afterlife) than by hope (enjoying heaven), so they aren't motivated to mortify sin and live holy lives.
When our heart is disentangled from the world and already focused on heaven, then we're ready for heaven (Mt 6:21).
The General Judgment
When God opens book of remembrance, He will read aloud for all to hear each person's indictment and record of thoughts, words, deeds.
When God opens book of life, He will reveal to all those who are elect.
Rev 20:12 says people will be "judged according to their works," but that doesn't mean elect earn salvation; kingdom they are called to was prepared for them from the foundation of the world (Mt 25:34). Their works are result of Holy Spirit sanctifying them, and aren't grounds for, but evidence of, entitlement to heaven.
Universe won't be annihilated, but dissolved, purified, renewed (2 Pet 3:7-13). Flood purified earth without annihilating it (2 Pet 3:6-7).
The Kingdom of Heaven
That saints will see God (Mt 5:8; Rev 22:4) means they will have perfect, complete understanding of God and theology. This is beatific vision. They’ll also physically see Jesus, Who still has His physical body.
On Hell
Wicked will continue to sin eternally in hell, consumed by rage, envy, resentment (Mt 8:12), blasphemy (Rev 16:21).
"It is undoubtedly easier to endure intense convictions in this life if they lead us to Christ than to have them permanently fixed in our conscience and to be eternally separated from Him in hell."
July 18, 2024
Before reading anything by Thomas Boston, I had heard from Sinclair Ferguson that in reading Boston young ministers can “learn what authentic Christian ministry looks like, feels like, and sounds like.” This has proved true! In my estimation, Boston is a model gospel minister. For in these rich theological expositions on the fourfold nature of man, Boston demonstrates four qualities that make him such a minister worth modeling:
1) Evangelist. Boston thoroughly preaches the law in its first use, and is constantly appealing to and calling the unbeliever to repentance and faith in Christ!
2) Covenant theologian. Though he only speaks of the covenant works/grace occasionally, this theological framework underpins his entire work.
3) Soul doctor. Following in Puritan fashion, Boston deals so tenderly, penetratingly, and thoroughly with souls and the many doubts that arise in believers.
4) Gospel man. Boston is always directing his hearers ultimately to the gospel for acceptance, assurance, and strength!
**My favorite chapters were 1) The mystical union between Christ and believers and 2)The Kingdom of Heaven
1) Evangelist. Boston thoroughly preaches the law in its first use, and is constantly appealing to and calling the unbeliever to repentance and faith in Christ!
2) Covenant theologian. Though he only speaks of the covenant works/grace occasionally, this theological framework underpins his entire work.
3) Soul doctor. Following in Puritan fashion, Boston deals so tenderly, penetratingly, and thoroughly with souls and the many doubts that arise in believers.
4) Gospel man. Boston is always directing his hearers ultimately to the gospel for acceptance, assurance, and strength!
**My favorite chapters were 1) The mystical union between Christ and believers and 2)The Kingdom of Heaven
May 2, 2023
Written in the 18 th century this book does not pull any punches. Thomas Boston vivid descriptions are unparalleled. He describes the happy condition of the saved and the deep sorrow and eternal pain of the lost. This book is a must for every minister of Christ. It causes us to see the huge importance of earnestly preaching the gospel so that men would be compelled to come to Christ. Otherwise the door will be closed and once that is done there is no more mercy. Highly recommended. I will re read and re listen to this book a number of times. EXCELLENT
July 19, 2024
This book deserves more than 5 stars. It is a thorough exploration of the four states of man: the state of innocence, the state of nature (after the fall), the state of grace, and the eternal state. My copy is an old Banner of Truth edition with 506 pages, and the state of grace is an exceptional section. In that section, chapter one on regeneration and its results and the next chapter on the mystical union between Christ and believers are especially good. The thoroughness with which these are covered is illustrated by their length of 150 pages. Highly recommend.
June 3, 2021
Dated, but excellent book
I selected this book because parts were included in a devotional book I'd purchased over a decade ago. It took me a long time to read through it, but it's well worth the time and effort to read.
I selected this book because parts were included in a devotional book I'd purchased over a decade ago. It took me a long time to read through it, but it's well worth the time and effort to read.
March 30, 2022
Great book on biblical anthropology. Boston is so clear and organized so well. He does a good job of really illustrating his points in each of the fourfold states. If you are wanting to know more about what the Bible says about mankind - who man is, then this book is for you.
January 5, 2024
Masterful treatise on the gospel. Biblically saturated, pastorally warm. First time reading was just to grasp the breadth of it. Next time reading will have to be slower to adequately soak up this rich teaching
February 13, 2025
GOLD! Boston's work is an eloquent, orderly, biblical, and reformed account of man's nature in its "fourfold state" - innocence, nature, grace, and eternity. This is one of the best works of anthropology and soteriology I've ever read!
Want to read
October 17, 2017July 21, 2020
This is a classic for a reason. Thomas Boston traces the biblical teaching on the four states of humanity: 1) Innocence, 2) Nature, 3) Grace, 4) Eternity with clarity and force. His sections on the state of nature (mankind fallen into sin and separated from Christ) and eternity (what we have to look forward to after death) are particularly powerful.
December 31, 2021
what a GRAND SLAM of a book!!!!
June 18, 2023
Richly biblical, impressively thorough, encouragingly pastoral, would reward another reading
September 17, 2023
Unit cu Hristos - tradusa de Magna Gratia.
October 26, 2023
BEST BOOK I'VE EVER READ
March 6, 2025
This is a must-read!
The key issue in the book is the question of how the Lord transfers sinners from their lost state of nature into the state of grace through our Lord Jesus Christ, our redeemer!
The key issue in the book is the question of how the Lord transfers sinners from their lost state of nature into the state of grace through our Lord Jesus Christ, our redeemer!
May 24, 2025
This book by Thomas Boston is worth reading slowly, carefully, and thoughtfully. I plan to read it again next year.
July 28, 2025
Thomas Boston really knew how to probe the heart and expose sin, as well as making plain the remedy in Jesus Christ.
April 19, 2016
This book is a must read for ministers and Christians alike. I do not say this about many books. Get it and read it! Soon!
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