In this episode of The Wandering Pilgrims, we embark on a journey through the life of Matthew Henry, a pastor and scholar whose Bible commentary continues to inspire believers around the world. Born in 1662, Henry's life unfolded against a backdrop of religious upheaval and personal trials, shaping his profound legacy in Christian history.
We begin in Broad Oak, a farmhouse that straddles the border of Wales and England, where Matthew was born into a family of faith. His father, Philip Henry, faced persecution for his beliefs, leading to a unique upbringing that fostered Matthew’s intellectual and spiritual growth. By the age of three, he was reading the Bible, and by nine, he was already writing Latin. His education continued at Thomas Doolittle's Nonconformist Academy, where he honed his theological skills amidst the challenges of nonconformity.
As we explore Matthew's pastoral journey, we highlight his dedication to preaching and community-building in Chester, where he led his congregation through the tumult of the times. His personal life was marked by both joy and tragedy, losing his first wife and yet finding strength in his faith and second marriage. The episode details his prolific writing, including the monumental Exposition of the Old and New Testaments, which remains a cornerstone for many Christians today.
We also examine the historical context of Matthew’s life, from the Restoration of Charles II to the Glorious Revolution, and how these events influenced his ministry. His teachings on prayer and scriptural understanding resonate with the faithful, encouraging earnest devotion and deep study.
Join us as we reflect on Matthew Henry's enduring impact on Christian thought and practice, and consider how his life continues to inspire us to live faithfully in our own journeys.
If you would like to learn more about Matthew Henry and his works, we’ve included some recommended readings below. (affil links)
The Complete Commentary of Matthew Henry: https://amzn.to/4ixcMlI
A Method for Prayer: https://amzn.to/4kWw3yK
Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary: https://amzn.to/4jbR5aX
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