Thomas Patient: The Father of the Irish Baptist Church

by Micah L. Caswell, Malcolm B Yarnell III (Foreword)

For generations Baptists have asked, "what does it mean to be a Baptist?" Exploring the life of Thomas Patient is helpful in finding an answer to this question. An English Puritan, then an American Baptist, then an English Particular Baptist, Patient's life of faithfulness and dedication to sound doctrine culminates in his foundational role in establishing the Baptist movement in Ireland. Although unknown by most Baptist historians, this exploration of the convictions and theology of Patient's life and ministry illustrates this under-appreciated figure's role in locating the Baptist identity. Through exploring Patient's extensive and early treatment of the doctrine of believer's baptism, Caswell grounds Baptist identity not fundamentally in the doctrine of soul competency, but rather in the biblical doctrine of believer's baptism. The life and ministry of Thomas Patient reminds readers why Baptists have been called Baptists. The Baptist identity is one distinguished by its unwavering conviction to the biblical doctrine of believer's baptism by immersion.

174 pages, Paperback

Published December 16, 2019

Reviews

[Pig Rieke · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this book, Caswell provides a brief biography of Thomas Patient and an analysis of his beliefs on baptism. Patient was an Englishman, Christian, Colonist, Independent turned Particular Baptist, pastor, chaplain under Cromwell, church planter, and best known as the father of Irish Baptist Churches. While little is known of Patient, Caswell has provided insights into his life based on the scant information available. Because there is so little known about the man, this book likely won’t change your life. But as a historical investigation, it is readable and informative.

[Chance Faulkner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ground-breaking book on Thomas Patient

[S.D. (Davy) Ellison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Caswell’s book serves as a helpful introduction to the little known figure Thomas Patient. His effort is admirable given the little information available on Patient. Thus, at times, there is some repetition. Nonetheless, any future work on Thomas Patient will certainly need to pay attention to this book.