April 14, 2004

Joseph Philpot

Joseph Charles Philpot 1802-1869

His preaching and writings were marked by clear views of gospel truth; an ability to set forth the deepest truths in a simple manner; a wealth of similes from the grace of God to open up and explain the things of God; and a clear discernment of the vital distinction between a mere profession of Christ and a true saving knowledge of Him. He was born at Ripple, Kent (where his father was rector). Educated at Oxford University, he was elected a fellow of Worcester College, and appeared to have a brilliant scholastic career before him. But the Lord's purposes being otherwise, he was brought into solemn concern spiritually and led into a deep and gracious understanding of the truth. He first preached in the Established Church at Stadhampton (Oxfordshire). In 1835, however, he was constrained, for the truth's sake, to sever his connection with the Church of England and to resign his curacy and his fellowship. The letter to the provost stating his reasons was published and went into several editions. The same year, he was baptized by John Warburton at Allington (Wilts). The rest of his life was spent labouring among the Strict Baptists. For 26 years, he held a joint pastorate at Stamford (Lines.) and Oakham (Rutland). In addition for over twenty years, he was editor of "The Gospel Standard", where many of his sermons first appeared. Here he ably contended for truth and refuted error, and in his reviews, addresses and meditations maintained a remarkably high standard, both literary and spiritual.

"My desire is to exalt the grace of God; to proclaim salvation alone through Jesus Christ; to declare the sinfulness, helplessness and hopelessness of man in a state of nature; to describe the living experience of the children of God in their trials, temptations, sorrows, consolations and blessings." - J.C. Philpot

Archived articles available on this site
Religious Animal
Little heathen
Cain, Saul, Ahab, and Judas
At the Cross
Dead and dark season
Religion which I want
Whole Apparatus of Religion
The end will make amends for it all
Natural Religiosity
My path
Precious and Glorious
Faults of
Great men

Three Books

Other articles and sermons available at J.C. Philpot archives