John Thomson (Presbyterian minister)

John Thomson (1690 – 1753) was a prominent Presbyterian minister in colonial America, known for his staunch advocacy of theological orthodoxy and his role in the Adopting Act of 1729.

Born in Ireland, Thomson immigrated to America around 1715. He became a minister in the Presbyterian Church and served congregations in Delaware and Pennsylvania. He was a leading figure in the Synod of Philadelphia, the highest governing body of the Presbyterian Church in the colonies at the time.

Thomson was a vocal defender of the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms as the doctrinal standards of the Presbyterian Church. He played a critical role in the Adopting Act of 1729, a compromise designed to address tensions between "Old Side" and "New Side" factions within the Church. This Act required ministers to subscribe to the essential articles of the Westminster Standards, allowing for some liberty of conscience on less critical points. Thomson's efforts were instrumental in achieving a degree of unity and preventing a schism within the Presbyterian Church.

Beyond his involvement in the Adopting Act, Thomson was known for his preaching and theological writings. He authored several books and pamphlets, including defenses of infant baptism and critiques of contemporary religious trends he viewed as unorthodox.

John Thomson's legacy lies in his commitment to Presbyterian theological principles and his contribution to maintaining unity within the church during a period of theological and social ferment. He is remembered as a significant figure in the history of American Presbyterianism.