This is the first book on Irving for many years that shows how his theology and pastoral practice were intricately linked, and how they developed over time. The 19th century Scottish theologian Edward Irving has been the subject of a remarkable resurgence of interest in recent decades, but many studies focus on specific aspects of his thought. This biography portrays Irving's life and ministry as a whole, drawing on previously unused letters as well as his published writings to offer a readable and well-grounded narrative. Apart from the personal interest of this story, Irving's thought and practice as a preacher and pastoral theologian remains worthy of serious attention.