As pastor, preacher, theologian, and author, William Perkins became one of the most influential Puritans, that spiritual fraternity of gifted preachers that first appeared at the end of the 16th century. Perkins lived for less than two decades after his conversion but used his remaining years in devotion to Christ.
His books on prayer, assurance of salvation, holy living, and the gospel outsold the most popular preachers of his day. His preaching and writing ministry shaped his society such that he is widely considered the father of Puritanism.