William Webster (theologian) facts for kids

William Webster (born December 1689 – died 4 December 1758) was an English priest and writer. He was part of the Church of England and wrote many books and articles about religious topics.

Early Life and Education

William Webster was born in December 1689 in a place called Cove, Suffolk, England. His father, Richard Webster, was also a clergyman. William went to school in Beccles. Later, he studied at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, a famous university. He earned several degrees there, including a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in 1712, a Master of Arts (M.A.) in 1716, and a Doctor of Divinity (D.D.) in 1732.

Becoming a Priest

William Webster became a deacon, which is the first step to becoming a priest, on 24 June 1713. He worked as a curate (an assistant to a priest) in Depden, Suffolk. On 26 February 1716, he became a full priest. He then worked at St. Dunstan-in-the-West, London.

Later, in 1732, he became a curate at St Clement, Eastcheap. In 1733, he was given the job of rector (the main priest) of Depden. In 1740, he moved to Ware, Hertfordshire, and also worked in Thundridge. He stayed in these roles until he passed away.

William Webster's Writings

William Webster was a very busy writer. He wrote many books and articles on different subjects, especially about religion.

Editing and Translations

In 1723, he helped publish a book called The Life of General Monk. This book was about a famous historical figure named George Monck. Webster wrote an introduction to the book. He also translated a French book about the New Testament into English in 1730.

The Weekly Miscellany

In 1732, William Webster started his own newspaper called The Weekly Miscellany. He used the pen name 'Richard Hooker of the Inner Temple'. This newspaper often included many religious essays. It was sometimes jokingly called 'Old Mother Hooker's Journal'.

The newspaper became known for its discussions about a book called Divine Legation of Moses by another writer, William Warburton. Webster wrote his own thoughts on this topic, which were later published as Remarks on the Divine Legation. Because of this, he was even mentioned in a famous poem called The Dunciad by Alexander Pope.

Writing on Trade

In 1740, Webster wrote a pamphlet (a small booklet) about the wool industry. It was called Consequences of Trade to the Wealth and Strength of any Nation. This booklet was very popular and had many editions. Interestingly, in 1741, Webster wrote another pamphlet that argued against his own ideas from the first one! He used a different pen name, Andrew Freeport, for this second booklet.

Other Important Works

William Webster wrote many other books and essays. Here are some of them:

• The Clergy's Right of Maintenance vindicated from Scripture and Reason (1726) – This book discussed how priests should be supported financially.
• The Fitness of the Witnesses of the Resurrection of Christ considered (1731) and The Credibility of the Resurrection of Christ (1735) – These books explored the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus.
• A Complete History of Arianism from 306 to 1666 (1735) – This was a large two-volume history of different religious beliefs.
• Tracts, consisting of Sermons, Discourses, and Letters (1745) – A collection of his sermons and letters.
• A Vindication of his Majesty's Title to the Crown (1747) – A book supporting the king's right to rule.
• A Treatise on Places and Preferments (1757) – A book about different jobs and positions.
• A plain Narrative of Facts, or the Author's case fairly and candidly stated (1758) – This was a personal appeal where he asked for financial help, as he faced difficulties later in his life.

William Webster passed away on 4 December 1758 in Ware, England.