May 9, 1687 - Matthew Henry Ordained

Title page of Matthew Henry’s Exposition of the Old and New Testament. Public domain.

As one of the most influential Bible Commentators in Christian history, Matthew Henry was one of the many men who desired to be a priest in England during the period following the Act of Uniformity that restricted non-conformist ministers. Nonconformists, or Dissenters, were Protestants who refused to follow the practices of the Church of England. Because of the persecution, he became a “hidden” pastor to the people of his town of Chester. As an unofficial pastor, he preached outside of the established church system. He built a strong Presbyterian congregation by serving Chester and was ordained on May 9, 1687 by six fellow Presbyterians. The Glorious Revolution and the Tolerance Act of 1689 brought a small amount of religious freedom. His most notable work was Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible, which was esteemed for its devotional and practical insights. Even still, his commentary is widely used in preparation for sermons and Bible studies.

The life of Matthew Henry illustrates commitments to faithfulness even when facing cultural or legal opposition. It also shows how God can use individuals in difficult or restricted circumstances. Henry’s story reminds modern Christians of the value of religious freedom and the cost from which it came and inspires them to invest in teaching and discipleship through writing and preaching. By looking at the lives of people like Henry, Christians can see God’s faithfulness toward perseverance in ministry over a long period of service. Additionally, it encourages spiritual growth and personal devotion. Henry’s story is a reminder that influence extends beyond someone’s lifetime. In Henry’s case, his legacy lives on through his written works.