The Reformed Pastor

Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. – Galatians 6:9

 

The Reformed Pastor, the work of Richard Baxter, has been long known and cherished by ministers of various evangelical denominations as among the most inspiring, sacred, and fervent works ever written on the duties and responsibilities of the pastoral office. Many of them have had their own souls and ministries greatly affected as they read the book, much like they might imagine the burning coal from God’s own altar did regarding the lips of the prophet (Isaiah 6:5-6). 

 

Although this book is more directly addressed to pastors, the lessons contained in the book may be applied to all Christians to whom God has given the opportunity and means of influencing others for His kingdom.

 

List of Chapters

 

Part 1 – The Oversight of Ourselves

Ch. 1: The Nature of This Oversight

Ch. 2: The Motives to the Oversight of Ourselves

 

Part 2 – The Oversight of the Flock

Ch. 3: The Nature of This Oversight

Ch. 4: The Manner of the Oversight of the Flock

Ch. 5: The Motives for the Oversight of the Flock

 

Part 3 – Application

Ch. 6: The Use of Humbling Ourselves

 

Part 4 – The Duty of Personal Catechizing and Instructing

Ch. 7: Motives to This Duty

Ch. 8: Objections to This Duty

Ch. 9: Directions for This Duty

 

About the Author

Richard Baxter (1615–1691) preached “as a dying man to dying men.” He was devoted to God and was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. Best known as the minister of Kidderminster in England, his love for God and others resulted in practically the entire town of Kidderminster turning to Jesus during Baxter’s ministry there. Richard Baxter desired unity among Christians, which often resulted in opposition from those who held to church loyalty or theological views rather than to Christ and God’s Word. Baxter had his share of persecution, even being imprisoned on several occasions.