The Shining Of A Flaming Fire In Zion Or A Clear Answer Unto 13 Exceptions Against The Grounds Of New Baptism So Called In Mr Saltmarsh His Book Intituled The Smoke In The Temple P 15 C

England in the mid-seventeenth-century saw the emergence of numerous religious sects, one of which were the Calvinistic Baptists. During this revolutionary era this group was often accused of heresy by their Reformed contemporaries. At that time Hanserd Knollys, one of the key spokesmen for this body, was personally charged with holding heterodox beliefs, in particular, Antinomianism, Anabaptism and Fifth Monarchism. In addition, subsequent historians have been compelled to defend Knollys against the charge of hyper-Calvinism. All of these charges are serious, and consequently bring into question Knollys' basic orthodoxy. This book systematically examines each of these charges against Knollys by looking at them in their broader historical context, and then comprehensively examining them from Knollys' writings to determine if they are indeed valid. Along the way Knollys' soteriology, ecclesiology and eschatology receive vital and needed elucidation.

Studies In Baptist History And ThoughtThe seventeenth century was a significant period in English history during which the people of England experienced unprecedented change and tumult in all spheres of life. At the same time, the importance of order and the traditional institutions of society were being reinforced. Hanserd Knollys, born during this pivotal period, personified in his life the ambiguity, tension, and paradox of it, openly seeking change while at the same time cautiously embracing order. As a founder and leader of the Particular Baptists in London, despite persecution and personal hardship, he played a pivotal role in helping shape their identity externally in society and internally, as they moved toward becoming more formalized by the close of the country.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1881.

Hanserd Knollys (1609–91) was a godly pastor/leader and prolific writer among the early Calvinistic Baptists of the seventeenth century. His life and ministry demonstrated a heart for the gospel of Jesus Christ. Despite imprisonment and persecution, he preached the gospel continuously and asked nonbelievers to “open the door” of their hearts to Christ. As for believers, he exhorted them to worship God “in spirit and truth,” live holy lives in both “the form and power of godliness,” and prepare and watch for the imminent second coming of Christ. As his friend Thomas Harrison said, “He was a Preacher out of the Pulpit as well as in it.” It is hoped that this summary of his life and timeless message will spur believers to reach the world with the gospel.