Samuel Collins (theologian)

Samuel Collins (1576-1651) was an English clergyman and academic, who served as Provost of King's College, Cambridge and Regius Professor of Divinity at Cambridge University.

Collins was born in Warwickshire and educated at Eton College before matriculating at King's College, Cambridge in 1595. He became a Fellow of King's in 1598 and earned his Bachelor of Divinity in 1613 and Doctor of Divinity in 1617.

He was known for his staunch Calvinistic views and his opposition to Arminianism, particularly during the rise of William Laud's influence in the Church of England. He was a key participant in the controversies of the time, engaging in debates and writing against perceived innovations in doctrine and ceremony.

Collins became Regius Professor of Divinity in 1617, a position he held until his death. He also served as Provost of King's College from 1615 until 1645, when he was ejected by Parliamentarian forces during the English Civil War. Despite his ejection, he was later reinstated, holding the position again until his death in 1651.

His works include treatises and disputations on theological matters, particularly focusing on predestination, free will, and the sacraments. While not a prolific publisher, his influence was significant through his academic positions and his participation in the theological debates of his era. He is considered a significant figure within the English Reformed tradition.