John Eaton (divine) facts for kids

John Eaton (born around 1575, died 1641) was an English religious leader. He was known for his strong beliefs as an Antinomian. This was a special way of thinking about faith in the 1600s. Eaton wrote an important book called The Honeycombe of Free Justification. He was a key figure in the Antinomian movement.

Early Life and Education

John Eaton was born in Kent, England, around the year 1575. He went to Trinity College, Oxford, for his education. In 1590, he was the very first student to receive a special scholarship there. He earned his first degree in 1595 and a master's degree in 1603.

After finishing his studies, Eaton worked in several churches. Around 1604, he became the vicar of Wickham Market in Suffolk. He stayed there for about fifteen years. Other religious leaders in the area saw him as a very important Antinomian. Some even thought he helped start this group.

His Work as a Vicar

Even though some people thought Eaton had unusual ideas, he was a very good vicar. His church parish changed a lot for the better. In just a few years, most children as young as twelve could explain their religious beliefs well.

However, his unique way of preaching caused problems. His bishop did not like his ideas. So, on April 29, 1619, Eaton was removed from his position. He was told he was spreading "errors and false opinions."

Despite this, he kept teaching his beliefs. He said he faced "much hurry" and "divers imprisonments" because of it. But he handled these difficulties calmly and bravely.

When Did John Eaton Die?

The exact time of John Eaton's death is not fully known. Some historical records say he died in 1641. They also suggest he was buried in Wickham Market. However, historians have found that some of these early records might have been mistaken.

John Eaton's Writings

John Eaton wrote several important books about his religious ideas. But none of his writings were allowed to be published while he was alive. They were all printed after his death.

Here are some of his well-known works:

• The Discovery of the most dangerous dead Faith (published in 1641). A second version came out in 1642. It included more writings like "Abraham's Steps of Faith."
• The Honey-Combe of Free Justification by Christ alone (published in 1642). This book was put together by Robert Lancaster. He had planned to write a full life story of Eaton, but it never happened.

Some people believed that Eaton made a few mistakes in his ideas about grace. But his books were still very important for those who followed his teachings.