Adoption of Sons, The: A Practical and Experimental Treatise

“… theologically profound and warmly devotional.” — Prof Edward Donnelly

The Adoption of Sons takes us through the key doctrinal, practical and experimental aspects of the precious subject of God’s adoption of sons. This work by the highly respected nineteenth century minister Thomas Houston (1803-1882) had become hard to find, and we are pleased to be able to make it available again for today’s readers. Our edition is enhanced by a biographical introduction by Rev Stephen Steele, Stranraer, and a theological introduction by Rev Ian Macleod, Grand Rapids.

“In my opinion, Thomas Houston’s The Adoption of Sons is superior to all of these [other nineteenth century] volumes and has been unduly neglected.” — Dr Joel Beeke.

212 pages.

View excerpt here.

“… a greatly overlooked work came to the church from the Irish Presbyterian, Thomas Houston. I recall discovering this gem while researching for my dissertation and being helped in my view of both ecclesiology and soteriology. I had to reach all the way to Great Britain to find a copy in a library and settle for a pathetic photocopy for my use all these years. So, needless to say, I’m thrilled that I can now enjoy a readable text. I commend this volume highly and hope you find great benefit for your soul from having read it.”

– Dr. C. N. Willborn, Pastor, Covenant Presbyterian Church (PCA; Oak Ridge, Tennessee); Professor of Church History, Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (Taylors, South Carolina)

“One of the most arresting features of Houston’s discussion of the doctrine of adoption is its trinitarian emphasis. It comes as no surprise that adoption entails a relationship between believers and God the Father, the first person of the Godhead. This is discussed in chapter 3. However, chapters 4 and 5 proceed to argue that believers enjoy an adoptive relationship with the Son and the Holy Spirit as well.

… Houston’s treatise … is thoroughly saturated with Scripture. Not only does Houston refer to those passages in Paul’s letters which refer to adoption, he cites and alludes to many passages from the Pentateuch, Isaiah, the Psalms and Song of Solomon, which speak about God’s fatherly love and the bonds which bind his family together. In fact, “family” is a central theme of this treatise, yet one which is often overlooked in discussions of the doctrine of adoption.”

– Rev Dr Andrew Stewart, review, Vox Reformata 87 (2022)

“I describe this book, ‘a little gem’, and that is no overstatement because this is one of the best treatises ever published on the subject of ‘Adoption’. … This is a brilliant book and will fill the heart of thoughtful readers with gratitude at being adopted by grace and having conferred all the privileges of the sons of God.”

– Prof Robert McCollum, Principal of Reformed Theological College, Knockbracken

” Here is adoption presented in a most exhilarating manner, making us not only delight in it, but desire its fulness in heaven.”

– Rev Trevor Kirkland, review, Free Church Witness