Philip Nichols (evangelical writer) facts for kids

Philip Nichols was an English writer who lived during the 1500s. He was also known as Philip Nicolles or Philip Nicolls. He wrote about religious ideas, especially during the time of King Edward VI.

Philip Nichols was born in Ilfracombe, a town in north Devon, England. He also owned land in south Devon. He was supported by a powerful Protestant leader named Sir Peter Carew. Philip Nichols shared Sir Peter Carew's strong belief in a new way of practicing Christianity, known as the Protestant faith.

Early Writings and Beliefs

In 1548, Philip Nichols became known for writing an open letter. This letter was sent to Richard Crispin, a church official at Exeter Cathedral. Richard Crispin had spoken out against Martin Luther in a sermon. Martin Luther was a key figure in the Protestant Reformation, a movement that changed how many people practiced Christianity.

Philip Nichols' letter was very polite for its time. Its main goal was to show that the Bible should be the most important guide for deciding if religious teachings are true. He believed the Bible was the main "test" for truth in faith.

Life in Exile and Return

When Queen Mary I became queen, life became difficult for Protestants in England. Queen Mary I was a Catholic and did not support the Protestant faith. Because of this, Philip Nichols had to leave England. He went to a place called Aarau, where many other Protestants had also gone to live safely.

Later, when Queen Elizabeth I became queen, Philip Nichols returned to England. Queen Elizabeth I was a Protestant, so it was safer for him to come back. He tried to convince an important government official, Sir William Cecil, to make religious changes happen faster in England. However, he was not successful in this effort.

Between 1562 and 1564, Philip Nichols served as a church leader in Rimpton. This village was part of the Diocese of Wells, which is an area managed by a bishop. We do not know exactly when Philip Nichols was born or when he died.

Published Works

Philip Nichols wrote several books and letters. Here are some of his known works:

• The copie of a letter sente to one maister Chrispyne (published in London by John Daye, 1548). This was the letter he wrote to Richard Crispin.
• Here begynneth a godly new story of .xii. men that moyses (by the co[m]maundement of god) sent to spye owt the land of canaan (published in London by William Hill, 1548). This book was reprinted in 1575.