Baxter, Richard

Richard Baxter (1615–1691) was a significant English Nonconformist minister and theologian. He rose to prominence in the 1630s with his ministry in Kidderminster, Worcestershire, and became a prolific writer on theological subjects. Following the Act of Uniformity in 1662, Baxter refused a bishopric and was expelled from the Church of England, becoming a leading figure in the Nonconformist movement. His ministry was marked by periods of persecution, including imprisonment, due to his refusal to conform to established church practices. Baxter's theological positions, particularly his views on predestination and a 'faith-law' for Christians, generated considerable debate within Protestant traditions. Despite facing legal troubles and imprisonment, he continued his writing and advocacy for a comprehensive national church until his death.

Born in Shropshire in 1615, Richard Baxter received a rudimentary early education primarily from local clergy. His studies improved significantly when he attended the free school at Wroxeter from approximately 1629 to 1632, under the guidance of John Owen. Baxter later studied divinity, initially focusing on devotional writings by figures like Richard Sibbes and William Perkins, alongside scholastic philosophers. He also engaged with the works of Church of England theologians such as Richard Hooker. His early encounters included meeting Nonconformists like Joseph Symonds and Walter Cradock, influencing his later theological path.

Baxter began his ministry in 1638 as master of a grammar school in Dudley, later moving to Bridgnorth. His time there involved significant engagement with the controversies surrounding Nonconformity and the Church of England, leading to his alienation from the established church, particularly after the 'et cetera oath' and his rejection of English episcopacy. He was elected minister of St Mary and All Saints' Church in Kidderminster in 1641, where he served for nearly nineteen years. During this period, he fostered ministerial associations and implemented reforms. His ministry was interrupted by the English Civil War, during which he served as a chaplain in the Parliamentarian army, aiming to counter sectarian growth and uphold constitutional government.

After the Stuart Restoration in 1660, Baxter moved to London and continued preaching until the Act of Uniformity in 1662. His hope for a place within a reformed Church of England proved futile. He was offered the Bishopric of Hereford but declined, leading to restrictions on his preaching. Baxter's life from 1662 onwards was marked by continuous persecution, including imprisonment for attending or holding conventicles. He faced further legal challenges, including seizure of his property and being compelled to post bonds for good behavior. A notable confrontation occurred in 1685 with Chief Justice Sir George Jeffreys, resulting in a prison sentence for alleged libel in his 'Paraphrase on the New Testament'.