Benjamin Keach, John Gill, John Rippon, and Charles Spurgeon all pastored the same church.

Of these men, do you know who pastored the church the longest?

Not Keach (1668-1704, 36 yrs)
Not Gill (1720-1771, 51 yrs)
Not Spurgeon (1854-1892, 38 yrs)

But Rippon (1773-1836, 63 yrs)

Many remember the church of Horsleydown/Goat Yard Chapel/ Carter Lane/New Park Street/Metropolatin Tabernacle (the same congregation, only in different locations as a result of several moves throughout the years) for being pastored by Keach, Gill, and Spurgeon. And rightly so!

Keach, the confessionalist, is known for his participation in the 1689 General Assembly and for subscribing to the 1689 LBCF. Keach is also known for writing numerous works ranging from ecclesiology & preaching to soteriology & catechesis.

Gill, the theologian, is known for writing the first Baptist systematic theology and for being the first Baptist to write a commentary on every verse of Scripture. Dubbed “Dr. Volumous,” Gill is also known for his prolific writing, interdenom. activity, & defense of the faith.

Spurgeon, the preacher, is known for his preaching ministry. Dubbed, “the Prince of Preachers,” Spurgeon is also known for having published more English words than anyone in history, along with his philanthropy, Pastors’ College, Sword&Trowel publication, & opposition to slavery.

Yet Rippon, the hymnist, lays claim to the longest pastorate at the church. Though we sing some of his hymns today (like “How Firm A Foundation”), few know of Rippon.

Two of his major works, “A Selection of Hymns from the Best Authors” and the “Baptist Annual Register,” deeply shaped the spiritual life of Baptists in the late-18th through early-19th centuries, and encouraged their unity, mission work, and transatlantic cooperation.

In many ways, Rippon served as a bridge between the older, more scholastic, dissenting tradition and the newer evangelicalism.

If you want to read an introduction to Rippon’s life and work, consult Ken R. Manley’s “‘Redeeming Love Proclaim’: John Rippon and the Baptists”

Rippon was a preacher, writer, hymnist, editor, but most significantly in his mind, he was a pastor.

We would do well to remember and read him today!