Grace and Conformity

By Stephen Hampton

Book Description

Stephen Hampton's scholarly exploration unveils a forgotten theological tradition that shaped English Christianity during a pivotal era. This comprehensive study examines ten influential theologians who navigated the complex religious landscape of early 17th-century England, maintaining their commitment to Reformed teachings on grace while embracing the established Church structure.

These Reformed Conformists occupied a unique position, distinct from both Puritan reformers and Laudian traditionalists. Hampton demonstrates how their understanding of divine grace directly influenced their approach to Church governance, worship practices, and spiritual community. Rather than viewing theology and ecclesiology as separate domains, these thinkers wove them into a coherent vision that honored both doctrinal orthodoxy and institutional loyalty.

The book reveals how debates over salvation, divine favor, and Church authority were deeply interconnected in ways that previous scholarship has overlooked. By recovering the voices and writings of these theologians, Hampton illuminates a rich theological tradition that contributed significantly to English Christianity's development during the reigns of James I and Charles I.

For readers interested in how spiritual beliefs shape religious institutions and community life, this work offers valuable insights into the relationship between personal faith and collective worship. The study enriches our understanding of how different Christian traditions have approached the balance between theological conviction and ecclesiastical unity, providing perspective on enduring questions about grace, authority, and spiritual community.