A giant of a theologian in Cambridge, from student to Fellow and preacher, dying in 1602 (aged 44), Perkins' influence as a Gospel preacher and expositor lasted for generations. This little book is in two parts. The Art of Prophesying was published first in Latin in 1592. Dr Sinclair Ferguson writes: 'Perkins therefore sets out to provide a survey of the nature and contents of Scripture, and of the principles by which we may rightly handle and interpret it. He does this with simplicity, charm and no small practical insight into personal study of the Bible. While not providing a complete system of biblical interpretation, he supplies us with a little handbook of instruction which will still be found valuable today by those who need to review their approach to Bible study and by many who are just beginning it.'
The second portion of the book ' The Calling of the Ministry ' is stirring throughout.