George Smeaton: Learned Theologian and Biblical Scholar

George Smeaton (1814-1889) was one of Scotland’s leading theologians. With a flair for languages and a gift for exegesis, he clearly and warmly articulated thoroughly biblical convictions on such major points of theology as the atonement and the person and work of the Holy Spirit.

Yet he wrote and taught at a time when Scotland was undergoing huge cultural and theological shifts, and his (sometimes groundbreaking) contributions were sidelined by his colleagues and successors. Subsequently he has been largely forgotten even by those today who share his theological convictions.

In producing this biography, John W Keddie simultaneously recovers Smeaton’s theology and introduces us to Smeaton as a person. This edition is revised from the original version of 2007, incorporating new and updated material. Smeaton’s reverence for the truth goes hand in hand with his personal holiness and it is impossible to read this biography without coming to a greater appreciation of the sound doctrine Smeaton prized and the deep piety he practiced.

Smeaton is an outstanding example of how a gift for profound theological thinking can be expressed in a life of genuine godliness, winning the love and admiration of his contemporaries.

A man of massive intellect and unwearied diligence, of profound erudition and exact scholarship, he consecrated his talents, his time, and the wealth of his learning to the service of God, and the interpretation of his holy Word.

210 pages.

View excerpt here.



Keddie has produced a work of impeccable scholarship; and unlike some scholars who become increasingly obscure, he has used his learning to clarify matters. This is altogether a superb book, beautifully produced and illustrated, and one which all ministers would profit from reading. Buy it for your pastor!

— Evangelicals Now, review by Paul EG Cook

Keddie deals honestly with the turbulent times of controversy experienced by the Free Church in the later nineteenth century, giving us the perspective of George Smeaton on these difficulties.

This book is much more than just an historical account of George Smeaton. It is an excellent read, and one that might enthuse you also to read more of George Smeaton’s printed works. I heartily recommend this superb book to as wide a readership as possible.

— Free Church Witness, review by Richard Ross

Although his books, particularly those on the atonement and the Holy Spirit, have been reprinted several times, little has been written about Smeaton’s life. In light of the fact that he is often overshadowed by contemporaries like Chalmers, M’Cheyne, the Bonars, and Buchanan (remarkable men in their own right). This biography is a welcome contribution on a man of massive intellect and ardent devotion that deserves to be better known.

— Reformation Heritage Books, note by Joel R. Beeke

This book has chapters on subjects such as union controversy, Bible criticism, worship innovations, inspiration, the atonement and the Holy Spirit, all of which are relevant and helpful contributions to our current thinking. But the overriding feature that stands out in the life of this learned theologian is his walk with God.

There is much profit in this book and it is highly recommended.

— Evangelical Times, review by David Budgen