The Puritan era produced many great voices who stood for truth, holiness, and the authority of Scripture. Among them was Matthew Mead (1629–1699), a bold and compassionate Independent Puritan minister who spoke not only to the minds but also to the consciences of his hearers. His life and writings still speak powerfully to our modern Christian walk.
Ministry in Stepney: Leading London’s Largest Independent Church
In 1671, Mead became the pastor of the Independent congregation at Stepney, following the faithful ministry of William Greenhill. At the time, this was London’s largest Independent congregation, and Mead shepherded it with both wisdom and courage.
During a time when nonconformist ministers faced persecution for preaching outside the Church of England, Mead displayed great pastoral ingenuity. In 1674, he oversaw the building of a meeting-house that included concealed attic spaces safe hiding places for worshippers during government raids.
Persecution and Arrest
Matthew Mead’s ministry was not without hardship. In 1682, his congregation was raided and his pulpit destroyed by authorities attempting to suppress non-Anglican worship. Just a year later, in 1683, he was briefly arrested under suspicion of being involved in the Rye House Plot, a failed political conspiracy. Though completely innocent, he was detained and later released after proving his lack of involvement.
These trials did not silence his voice. Instead, they made it stronger. His sermons and writings were full of urgency and passion for the true gospel of Christ.
His Most Famous Work: The Almost Christian Discovered (1661)
Mead’s most enduring book is The Almost Christian Discovered, published in 1661. In this classic Puritan work, Mead exposes the danger of having only outward religion of being “almost” a Christian, but not truly converted.
Drawing from Acts 26:28, where King Agrippa says to Paul, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian,” Mead asks the reader hard questions:
- Do you have the form of godliness but not the power?
- Are you content with moral living, but lack a new heart?
- Are you close to Christ, but still outside of saving grace?
This convicting book is still highly relevant today, especially in an age where cultural Christianity is common but deep, personal faith is rare.
Legacy of Faith and Leadership
Matthew Mead played a vital role in continuing the Pinners’ Hall lectures after the death of John Owen, another prominent Puritan leader. He also helped raise significant funds to support poor clergy, showing that his ministry extended far beyond the pulpit.
He was the father of 13 children, one of whom, Richard Mead, became a well-known physician in 18th-century England. Through both his family and his books, Mead left behind a legacy of gospel-centered faith.
Why You Should Read Matthew Mead Today
If you are seeking Reformed books that are rich in Scripture and speak directly to the soul, Matthew Mead’s writings are a treasure. His pastoral heart, bold preaching, and clear gospel warning are a much-needed voice in our time.
We recommend starting with The Almost Christian Discovered, available now through Reformed Books.This book is a wake-up call to examine your heart, your faith, and your standing before God.
“To sit under the light and yet walk in darkness is to die under the greatest judgment with the greatest guilt.”
– Matthew Mead
Let his words challenge you, convict you, and draw you closer to the true Christ not just almost, but altogether