John Erskine (theologian) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids John Erskine |
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John Erskine by Sir Henry Raeburn
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| Personal details | |
| Born | 2 June 1721 |
| Died | 18 January 1803 |
John Erskine (1721–1803) was an important Scottish theologian, a person who studies religious beliefs. He was born on 2 June 1721 in Carnock, a place near Dunfermline in Scotland. His father, John Erskine of Carnock, was a famous Scottish law expert. His grandfather, John Erskine of Cardross, was a soldier in William of Orange's army during a big change in England's government in 1688, called the Glorious Revolution.
Contents
A Life of Faith and Learning
Early Life and Education
John Erskine was born on 2 June 1721 in Carnock, Fife. He went to school in Cupar and then to the High School of Edinburgh. After that, he earned a Master of Arts degree from Edinburgh University.
He first studied law, but he soon decided to follow a religious path. He was allowed to preach by the church leaders of Dunblane on 16 August 1743.
Serving the Church
John Erskine became a minister in several churches. On 31 May 1744, he was ordained as the minister of Kirkintilloch, a town north of Glasgow. Later, on 21 February 1753, he moved to work at Culross in Fife.
On 15 June 1758, he started working at New Greyfriars Church in Edinburgh. Then, in 1768, he moved to Old Greyfriars Church. There, he worked alongside Principal Robertson, a famous historian. John Erskine stayed at Old Greyfriars until he passed away on 19 January 1803.
His Ideas and Influence
Erskine mostly wrote short books and articles about religious ideas. His sermons, which were his talks in church, were clear and strong. They explained a moderate form of Calvinism, which is a way of thinking about Christian beliefs. His talks combined deep thinking with practical advice on how to live a good life.
He strongly supported sending missionaries to other countries. He often spoke about this at the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, which is the main meeting of the Scottish church. He once famously asked for a Bible during a debate, saying, "Moderator, rax me (that is, hand me) that bible."
Erskine was very interested in the politics of his time. He did not agree with giving more rights to Catholics at that time. He also supported the American Colonies in their fight against King George III. This was partly because Scottish merchants had an advantage in trade with the colonies. In 1766, he received an honorary doctorate degree from Glasgow University.
He was connected to major religious events of his time. These included religious revivals in Scotland, like the 'Cambuslang Wark', and in England, known as Methodism. He was also aware of 'The Great Awakening' in America. He felt he was living in very important times.
In church politics, he was a leader of the evangelical group. This group was often seen as being against the Moderate Party. However, his friendship with Principal Robertson, a leader of the Moderate Party, shows that things were not always so simple.
John Erskine was well-liked and respected. People often asked him to preach in different parts of the country. Even the famous writer Sir Walter Scott praised Erskine in his novel Guy Mannering.
His Final Resting Place
John Erskine died suddenly on 18 January 1803. He is buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh. His grave is on the eastern side, in front of a large memorial. A special window was also put in Greyfriars Kirk to remember him.
Family Life
On 15 June 1746, John Erskine married Christian Mackay. She was the fourth daughter of George Mackay, 3rd Lord Reay. Christian passed away on 20 May 1810.
They had a large family with eight sons and four daughters. Sadly, many of their children died when they were young, including at least one who died in Bengal. Their son, David Erskine of Carnock, was born on 18 April 1770 and died on 16 March 1838.
His daughter, Mary Erskine, married Reverend Charles Stuart of Dunearn.
Remembering John Erskine
A beautiful memorial window was placed in Greyfriars Kirk in the late 1800s to honor John Erskine.
