David Brown (Free Church of Scotland)

David Brown (1803 – 1897) was a Scottish Free Church minister and theologian. He is best known for his contributions to biblical commentary and his role within the Free Church of Scotland.

Born in Aberdeen, Scotland, Brown was educated at Aberdeen Grammar School and Marischal College, Aberdeen, where he graduated with honors. He initially studied law but soon felt called to the ministry. He subsequently studied theology at the University of Edinburgh, where he was influenced by Thomas Chalmers.

In 1836, Brown was ordained as minister of the North Free Church, Aberdeen. He remained in this position for the rest of his active ministry. A staunch supporter of the Evangelical party within the Church of Scotland, he joined the Free Church of Scotland at the Disruption of 1843, leaving the established Church.

Brown served as Principal of the Free Church College, Aberdeen, from 1876 until his death. He was also a prominent member of the Free Church's theological debates, advocating for conservative interpretations of scripture.

Brown is best remembered for his contributions to Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible, where he was responsible for the New Testament portion. This commentary, known for its evangelical perspective and accessibility, became widely used. He also authored several other works, including Christ's Second Coming: Will it be Pre-Millennial? (1846) and biographies of figures such as John Duncan. His scholarship was characterized by a commitment to the authority of Scripture and a focus on practical application.