John Owen Richard Baxter And The Formation Of Nonconformity

John Owen (1616-1683) and Richard Baxter (1615-1691) were both pivotal figures in forming the nonconformist landscape of Restoration England. Yet despite having much in common, they found themselves taking opposite sides in the theological debates that swept through Protestantism in the second half of the seventeenth century. By comparing and contrasting the parallel careers of these two men, this book not only explores the development of their beliefs, but also develops a broader understanding of the development of Restoration nonconformity.

John Owen (1616–1683) and Richard Baxter (1615–1691) were both pivotal figures in shaping the nonconformist landscape of Restoration England. Yet despite having much in common, they found themselves taking opposite sides in several important debates, and their relationship was marked by acute strain and mutual dislike. By comparing and contrasting the parallel careers of these two men, this book not only distils the essence of their differing theology, it also offers a broader understanding of the formation of English nonconformity. Placing these two figures in the context of earlier events, experience and differences, it argues that Restoration nonconformity was hampered by their strained personal relationship, which had its roots in their contrasting experiences of the English Civil War. This study thus contributes to historiography that explores the continuities across seventeenth-century England, rather than seeing a divide at 1660. It illustrates the way in which personality and experience shaped the development of wider movements.

"Though we do not normally connect air-raid shelters with peace, I must confess that the fact that I had to live in an air-raid shelter during the 'blitz' of 1940 and 1941 gave me time and opportunity to do the reading necessary for this study in the life and importance of Richard Baxter. Some may consider that this work is merely another example of flogging a dead horse, but ideas which have rocked nations do not die as quickly as horses, and with the emergence of talk on Church reunion it is well that all parties should remind themselves of the origins and purpose of what is termed Nonconformity." -- From the Preface

John Owen (1616-1683) and Richard Baxter (1615-1691) were both pivotal figures in shaping the nonconformist landscape of Restoration England. Yet despite having much in common, they found themselves taking opposite sides in several important debates, and their relationship was marked by acute strain and mutual dislike. By comparing and contrasting the parallel careers of these two men, this book not only distils the essence of their differing theology, it also offers a broader understanding of the formation of English nonconformity. Placing these two figures in the context of earlier events, experience and differences, it argues that Restoration nonconformity was hampered by their strained personal relationship, which had its roots in their contrasting experiences of the English Civil War. This study thus contributes to historiography that explores the continuities across seventeenth-century England, rather than seeing a divide at 1660. It illustrates the way in which personality and experience shaped the development of wider movements.