Samuel Browne (divine)

Samuel Browne (c. 1600 – 1668) was an English Puritan clergyman and ejected minister. He is best known for his prominent role in religious debates and controversies during the Interregnum and the early Restoration period.

Browne was educated at Cambridge University, though specific details of his college and degree are often debated amongst historians. He became a minister and held various livings before being ejected from his parish in the early 1660s following the Act of Uniformity 1662.

A proponent of reformed theology, Browne's sermons and writings focused on themes of personal piety, the sovereignty of God, and the importance of Scripture. He was involved in several theological disputes, often taking a more moderate stance than some of his contemporaries. While details are scarce, historical records suggest he opposed radical religious sectarianism that emerged during the Commonwealth.

After his ejection, Browne continued to preach privately, facing legal challenges and persecution for nonconformity. He is remembered as a conscientious and faithful minister who remained committed to his religious convictions despite the difficulties he encountered. His legacy lies primarily in historical records of the era, as few of his written works are readily available today.