The Seraphic Samuel Pearce: The Piety and Theology of a Particular Baptist Pastor
Samuel Pearce’s ministry lasted scarcely a decade, yet his holy character, affectionate preaching and doctrinal faithfulness left a deep impression upon the Particular Baptists of his day. In this concise historical and theological study, Michael A. G. Azad Haykin introduces readers to the man remembered by his contemporaries as “the Seraphic Pearce.” Drawing upon Andrew Fuller’s celebrated memoir, William Jay’s personal recollections, Pearce’s correspondence and his surviving writings, Haykin traces Pearce’s conversion, preparation for ministry and fruitful pastorate at Cannon Street Baptist Church in Birmingham. Particular attention is given to the two great concerns that shaped Pearce’s spirituality: his love for God, grounded in the sovereign grace revealed at the cross, and his love for the lost. His devotion to Christ found expression in earnest preaching, evangelistic labour, support for foreign missions and a remarkable concern for the advance of the gospel beyond Britain. Haykin also outlines how Pearce was a confessional Churchman. He contended for sound doctrine within the Midland Baptist Association, and in his circular letter, The Doctrine of Salvation by Free Grace Alone, Pearce directed readers to the 1677/1689 Baptist Confession of Faith, reminding them of the free grace of God in the justification of sinners. More than a brief biography, this booklet presents Pearce as an example of warm-hearted, Christ-centred and evangelistic Particular Baptist piety. It invites contemporary Christians—and especially pastors—to consider what it means for sound theology, personal holiness and love for souls to belong together. Originally delivered as the inaugural lecture of the Reformed Baptist Study Centre at Trinity Grace Church, Ramsbottom, on 23 June 2026, the booklet includes an introduction by Robert Strivens and is published in partnership with the Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist Studies.