John Biddle, English minister and theologian (d. 1662)

John Biddle (14 January 1615 – 22 September 1662), sometimes also spelled Bidle, stands as a foundational figure in English religious history, renowned for his pioneering advocacy of nontrinitarian theology. He is widely celebrated and often referred to as "the Father of English Unitarianism" for his pivotal role in establishing this distinct theological movement within 17th-century England.

Born in Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire, Biddle displayed exceptional intellectual aptitude from an early age. He was educated at Magdalen Hall, Oxford, where he delved deeply into biblical studies and early Christian writings. It was through this rigorous study that he began to question the orthodox doctrine of the Trinity, a central tenet of mainstream Christianity, which posits God as a single being existing as three co-equal, co-eternal persons: Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit.

Biddle’s theological convictions led him to embrace a nontrinitarian viewpoint. Specifically, his views aligned closely with what would later be understood as Unitarianism. This theological stance emphasizes the absolute oneness of God (Latin: unitas meaning unity) and typically regards Jesus Christ as a distinct, divinely inspired human being, rather than a co-equal person of a triune God. Biddle’s arguments were rooted purely in his interpretation of the Scriptures, which he believed did not support the Nicene Creed's formulation of the Trinity. He published his seminal work, "Twelve Arguments Drawn out of the Scripture," in 1647, a controversial text that openly challenged traditional Trinitarian doctrine and quickly garnered both followers and fierce opposition.

His unwavering commitment to his beliefs came at a significant personal cost in an era marked by intense religious conformity and persecution. During the turbulent period of the English Commonwealth, Biddle faced repeated arrests, imprisonments, and even a death sentence under the Blasphemy Ordinance of 1648, though this was never carried out. His refusal to recant his views, despite severe legal and social pressure, made him a martyr-like figure for religious freedom. He spent considerable time incarcerated, including in the Gatehouse Prison and the Scilly Isles, before finally succumbing to illness contracted during his last imprisonment, dying in 1662.

Biddle's enduring legacy as "the Father of English Unitarianism" stems from his intellectual leadership and his courage in fostering nascent Unitarian communities. He not only articulated a clear nontrinitarian theology but also actively gathered and instructed small groups of like-minded individuals, laying the groundwork for future organized Unitarian churches in England. While early English Unitarianism was heavily influenced by continental Socinianism (which also rejected the Trinity), Biddle developed his distinctive arguments independently, drawing directly from his own biblical scholarship, making his contribution truly indigenous to England.

Frequently Asked Questions about John Biddle and English Unitarianism

Who was John Biddle?
John Biddle was a highly influential English theologian and religious dissenter from the 17th century, known for his advocacy of nontrinitarian beliefs and widely regarded as the founder of organized Unitarianism in England.
What is Nontrinitarianism?
Nontrinitarianism refers to Christian theological systems that reject the mainstream doctrine of the Trinity, which holds that God is three co-equal persons in one being. Nontrinitarian beliefs vary but generally emphasize the absolute singularity of God.
Why is John Biddle called "the Father of English Unitarianism"?
He earned this title because he was the first prominent English scholar to systematically articulate and publicly defend nontrinitarian theology based purely on biblical interpretation. More importantly, he actively formed and instructed groups of followers who shared his views, effectively laying the foundation for the Unitarian movement in England during a time when such beliefs were highly persecuted.
What challenges did John Biddle face?
Biddle faced severe persecution for his religious convictions, including multiple arrests, lengthy imprisonments, and even a death sentence under blasphemy laws. His books were ordered to be burned, and he spent much of his later life in confinement for refusing to renounce his beliefs.
What was the historical context of John Biddle's work?
Biddle lived during a tumultuous period in English history, the 17th century, which saw the English Civil War, the Commonwealth, and the Restoration. This era was characterized by intense religious debate and strict laws against religious dissent, making Biddle's open challenge to orthodox doctrine particularly courageous and dangerous.