Samuel Rutherford of Anwoth: A Study in Pastoral Care

"Samuel Rutherford (ca.1600-1661) was an accomplished man-university scholar, defender of the Reformed faith, prolific author, astute political theorist, formidable defender of Presbyterian church government, Scottish commissioner at the Westminster Assembly from 1643 to 1647. However, Bruce McLennan introduces us to the life and times of Rutherford with a particular view to his pastoral labors. While Rutherford was highly regarded by contemporaries for his contribution to various aspects of Scottish church life, Rutherford made it abundantly clear that his first love, and that to which he believed he was clearly called, was preaching the gospel and shepherding the Lord's people.Table of Contents:PART ONE1. Church and Crown in conflict in the late 16th and early 17th century2. Two somewhat contrasting parts of Scotland in the early 17th century3. A brief survey of the life of Samuel Rutherford4. The growth of a soul: the "banished minister" in AberdeenPART TWO5. Key Emphases in Rutherford's Writings6. Pastoral Advice to his Flock at Anwoth7. Reasoning with souls - making salvation sure8. Pressing the need for Sanctification and Mortification9. Counselling some who had doubts about their standing with God10. Rutherford's Pastoral Concern for children and youth11. Counsel to the bereaved12. Counselling the dying13. ConclusionAppendix 1: The source of early Protestant teachings in AberdeenAppendix 2: How the Reformers coped with the shortage of ministers in the early yearsBibliography"