Jansson, Hans Hendrick

Jansson, Hans Hendrick a Dutch theologian, born at Siddeburen Sept. 3, 1701, was educated at the University of Groningen. His theological instructors there were Otto Verbrugge and Antonius Driessen. Attracted by the spirit and fame of Vitringa, he resorted to the Franeker University, and imbibed the spirit of that celebrated divine. After becoming a candidate for the ministry, he repaired to Utrecht to enjoy the instructions of the distinguished Lampe. He was settled successively at Dirksland (1723-31), Embden (1731-45), Finsterwolde (1745-48), Veendam (1748-52), and Groningen (1752-80).

His first work, by which he made himself known as a worthy disciple of Vitrilga, was an exposition of the Epistle of James. It was commended by competent theologians of his day as being of sterling merit. He occupies in this work high evangelical ground, insisting not on a heathenish morality, but on practical piety. In 1750 he gave to the public an exposition of the Epistle of Jude. In this work he opposes the enthusiasm and mysticism which prevailed around him, and which tended to subvert vital godliness. His next work was on the third chapter of the Prophecy of Zechariah. These were all quarto volumes. Several smaller volumes of an experimental and practical character were also published by him. He enjoyed in a very high degree the love and esteem of the congregations which he successively served. He died March 1, 1780, universally- lamented. See B. Glasius, Godgeleerd Nederland, 2, 169 sq. (J. P.W.)