Henry Stebbing facts for kids
Henry Stebbing (1687–1763) was an important English church leader. He was known for his strong beliefs and for debating with others about religion. He eventually became an archdeacon, which is a senior church official.
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About Henry Stebbing's Life
Henry Stebbing was born in Walton, Suffolk, in 1687. His father, John Stebbing, was a grocer. Henry went to St Catharine Hall, Cambridge, when he was 18 years old. He studied hard and earned several degrees, including a doctorate (D.D.) in 1730.
After finishing his studies, Henry became a church leader. In 1713, he became the priest for the parish of Lower Rickinghall in Suffolk. Later, he also became the rector of Garboldisham in Norfolk.
He was chosen to be a preacher for the Society of Gray's Inn in London. The king also appointed him as a chaplain, which meant he gave religious advice to the king. In 1735, he became the archdeacon of Wilts, a very important role in the church. He also became the chancellor of Sarum in 1739. Henry Stebbing died in 1763 and was buried in Salisbury Cathedral. A painting of him from 1757 is in the National Portrait Gallery in London.
Henry Stebbing's Writings and Debates
Henry Stebbing was known for defending the beliefs of the Church of England. He often wrote and debated against people who had different ideas. For example, he wrote against George Whitefield and Benjamin Hoadly, who was a bishop.
His biggest debates were with William Warburton. This long argument started when Stebbing criticized Warburton's book, Divine Legation of Moses.
Henry Stebbing wrote many books and essays. Some of his important works include:
- ‘A Rational Enquiry into the proper methods of supporting Christianity’ (1720). This book looked at how church leaders should support Christianity.
- ‘An Essay concerning Civil Government, considered as it stands related to Religion’ (1724). This work discussed how government and religion are connected.
- ‘A Caution against Religious Delusion’ (1739). This book was written against the Methodists and was very popular, selling many copies quickly.
- ‘Christianity justified upon the Scripture Foundation’ (1750). This was part of the Boyle Lectures, which are talks about defending Christianity.
- ‘Sermons on Practical Christianity’ (1759–60). These were collections of his sermons.
Henry Stebbing's Family
Henry Stebbing had a son, also named Henry Stebbing (1716–1787). His son also became a church leader. He was a fellow at St. Catharine Hall, just like his father. He became a rector in Norfolk and later took over his father's role as preacher at Gray's Inn. He also published a collection of his own sermons.
Images for kids
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A memorial for Henry Stebbing in Salisbury Cathedral.
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A list of rectors at Redenhall Church, showing Henry Stebbing in 1748.
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