William Bridge facts for kids
William Bridge (born around 1600 – died 1670) was an important English Independent minister, a preacher, and a writer on religious and political topics. He was known for his strong beliefs and for not always agreeing with the official church rules of his time.
Contents
Early Life and Education
William Bridge was born in Cambridgeshire, England, probably around the year 1600. He went to Emmanuel College, Cambridge, a famous university, and earned his Master of Arts degree in 1626.
Becoming a Preacher
In 1631, William Bridge worked as a lecturer, which meant he was a preacher, in Colchester. He was supported by important people like Harbottle Grimstone. However, this was not popular with William Laud, who was the Bishop of London at the time. Laud was a powerful church leader who wanted everyone to follow strict church rules.
From 1637, Bridge lived in Norwich and was a rector (a type of minister) at two churches there. He often disagreed with Matthew Wren, the bishop of Norwich, because Bridge was a Nonconformist. This meant he did not follow all the official rules and practices of the Church of England.
Because of these disagreements, William Bridge had to leave England. He went into exile in Rotterdam, a city in the Netherlands. When Charles I of England heard that Bridge had gone to Holland because he wouldn't follow the rules, the King reportedly said, "Let him go: we are well rid of him."
Return to England and Important Meetings
Later, William Bridge returned to England, settling in Great Yarmouth. He became a member of the Westminster Assembly. This was a very important meeting of church leaders and scholars who met during the English Civil War to discuss how the Church of England should be organized.
At the Assembly, Bridge was part of a small group called the "Five Dissenting Brethren." This group led the Independent faction, which had different ideas from the main group, the Presbyterians. The Independents believed that each church should have more freedom to govern itself, rather than being controlled by a large national church structure. In 1643, this group wrote a document called "An Apologeticall Narration" to explain their beliefs.
In the same year, William Bridge preached in front of Charles I of England. During his sermon, he directly criticized the Queen. He continued to serve as a minister at the Old Meeting House in Norwich for many years until his death in 1670.
Writings
William Bridge was also a well-known writer. His books and sermons often focused on faith and how people could find comfort and strength in their beliefs, especially during difficult times.
- A Lifting Up for the Downcast
This book teaches that faith can help people overcome sadness and discouragement. Bridge explained that believing in Christ's sacrifice brings peace and that when people feel down, they should use their faith to find hope.
- The Wounded Conscience Cured, the Weak One Strengthened and the Doubting Satisfied by Way of Answer to Doctor Ferne (1642)
This work aimed to help people who felt guilty or unsure about their faith. It offered guidance to those who were struggling with their conscience.
- Ioabs covnsell and King Davids seasonable hearing it (1643)
This was a sermon he gave on February 22, 1643.
- The truth of the times vindicated (1643)
Many of William Bridge's works were collected and published together. A large collection called Works of the Rev. William Bridge was first published in 1845 and later reprinted in five volumes in 1989.
Images for kids
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William Bridge.
