Watson Refuted Being an Answer to the Apology for the Bible, in a Series of Letters to the Bishop Of Llandaff

"Watson Refuted" by Samuel W. Francis is a series of letters challenging a bishop's defense of the Bible and addressing arguments against Thomas Paine's "Age of Reason". The book points out errors and misrepresentations the author believes religious authorities have spread while promoting Christianity, and pushes readers to use reason when thinking about religious beliefs. The author initiates a strong argument about the believability of religious ideas by focusing on the bishop's earlier claims and how they are questioned; he stresses reason and proof, criticizing historical and scientific mistakes made amongst religious leaders. The author brings up ideas about the questionable nature of biblical writings and morally questions biblical stories, especially those that show violence and divine control. This is achieved by using his point of view to encourage critical thought, questioning unproven religious ideas and setting the foundation to further inspect the themes of faith, morality, and power throughout his letters.