Life Story
Full Name: Samuel Rutherford
Parents: William Rutherford and family
Birthplace: Nisbet, Scotland
Year of Birth: 1600
Date of Death: March 30, 1661
Contribution: Served as a church pastor, theology professor at a Bible college, and author of the famous book The Law, The King.
Early Life and Personal Background:
Samuel Rutherford was born in 1600 in Nisbet, Scotland, to William Rutherford and his wife. Little is known about his childhood or family life. Some say his father was a farmer or worked in a mill. In 1627, Rutherford earned his M.A. from Edinburgh College and was appointed as a professor of Humanity at the same institution. Later, he became the pastor of a church in Anwoth.
Rutherford was known for his dedication, honesty, and love for the people he served. He worked tirelessly for the church, teaching, guiding, and caring for the congregation. People described him as someone who prayed constantly, preached whenever possible, visited the sick, wrote books, and read extensively. He was known to rise as early as 3 a.m. for prayer and study.
Trials and Service:
Rutherford’s early years in Anwoth were marked by sorrow. His wife suffered from illness for several years and eventually passed away, and his two children also died. Despite these personal tragedies, he continued to serve God with a devoted heart.
His teachings were unique and impactful, helping people see their spiritual errors and leading them toward repentance. One elderly listener remarked, “Through his words, he revealed the condition of my heart to me.”
In 1636, Rutherford published a book defending the principles of grace, which sharply criticized the doctrines of the Church of England. This led to charges of sedition, and he was brought before the court. As a result, he was exiled and imprisoned in Aberdeen. Even while separated from his congregation, Rutherford continued to write letters encouraging and guiding his church members. These letters became widely influential.
Later Life and Legacy:
In 1638, amid political conflicts between the English Parliament, the King, and the reformers, Rutherford gradually returned to his beloved Anwoth. The Scottish Presbyterian Church recognized his service and appointed him as a theology professor at St. Andrews College. During his time, he authored the well-known book The Law, The King. This work later caused him legal troubles, including accusations of treason, but he remained steadfast in his faith, famously responding that he was accountable first to God’s judgment.
Samuel Rutherford passed away on March 30, 1661, leaving behind a legacy of faith, courage, and theological scholarship that continues to inspire Christians worldwide.