Review: Archibald G. Brown

Mr. Murray has done the Christian world a great service by writing this biography of Archibald Brown. Mr. Brown was one of the great pastors and preachers of the late 19th and early 20th century yet today he is hardly known. This probably because up to now no complete biography of this life has ever been written.

Archibald Brown came from a wealthy family. But instead of following his father into banking he served the Lord as pastor in several churches in Central London and South Africa. His most notable work was in the East End of London where there he built a church to hold 3000 people whilst still in his twenties. At the same time he personally led extensive relief work to the poor and needy. Mr. Brown was a contemporary and great friend of C. H. Spurgeon. He trained at Spurgeon’s pastor’s college and some years after Spurgeon’s death served as pastor at the Metropolitan Tabernacle.

Like Spurgeon he loved doctrines of grace and loved preaching the gospel. He was, by all accounts a moving and powerful preacher who had the great heart for the lost. Few spoke with more tenderness and compassion.

Mr. Murray writes in an engaging and interesting way. He does not just give us the facts but draws out lessons for us today. There are fascinating sections about apostasy, revivals, sermon preparation and the use of musical instruments in worship.

I heartily recommend this biography. It will give you a glimpse of a man in love with his Saviour and on fire for the Lord.

This review was first posted by Alan Hill on GoodBookReviews.org. The site has been closed as of March 2019