Paul Baynes facts for kids
Paul Baynes (born around 1573, died 1617) was an English clergyman. A clergyman is a religious leader, like a pastor or minister. He was known as a strong Puritan. Puritans were a group of Protestants who wanted to make the Church of England simpler. Even though he didn't publish books while he was alive, many of his writings came out after he died. His most famous work is a book about the Bible's book of Ephesians.
Paul Baynes' Early Life and Education
Paul Baynes went to school in a place called Wethersfield, Essex in England. He was a student and follower of a famous Puritan teacher named William Perkins.
Baynes studied at Christ's College, Cambridge, which is a well-known university. He earned his first degree (B.A.) in 1593 or 1594. He then got his master's degree (M.A.) in 1597. In 1600, he became a Fellow at Christ's College. This was a special position, like being a senior researcher or teacher.
However, he lost this position in 1608. This was because he didn't agree with some of the rules of the Church of England, which was common for Puritans. After William Perkins, Baynes became a lecturer at the church of St Andrew the Great in Cambridge. Both Perkins and Baynes were seen as the most important Puritan preachers in the town.
How Paul Baynes Influenced Others
Paul Baynes had a big impact on the next group of English Calvinists. Calvinists are Christians who follow the teachings of John Calvin. Baynes influenced people through his students and followers.
For example, William Ames was a student of Perkins and was influenced by Baynes. Also, Richard Sibbes became a follower of Baynes himself. This makes Baynes an important link in a chain of well-known Puritan leaders. These leaders include John Cotton, John Preston, Thomas Shepard, and Thomas Goodwin.
William Ames once quoted Baynes, saying, "Beware of a strong head and a cold heart." This means it's important to have both strong beliefs and a kind heart. This idea was later repeated by Cotton Mather, who was John Cotton's grandson.
Paul Baynes' Important Writings
Even though Paul Baynes didn't publish his works during his lifetime, many of his writings were printed after he died. Here are some of his well-known books:
- Commentary on Ephesians (1618)
- A Counterbane against Earthly Carefulnes (1619)
- The Diocesans Tryall (1621)
- Brief Directions unto a Godly Life (1637)
