Isaac Ambrose, English minister and author (b. 1604)

Isaac Ambrose (c. 1604 – 20 January 1664) was a prominent English Puritan divine whose life and ministry significantly intersected with the turbulent religious and political landscape of 17th-century England. Known for his deep spirituality, eloquent preaching, and influential devotional writings, Ambrose exemplified the intellectual and theological fervor characteristic of the Puritan movement during a period of profound national upheaval.

His academic journey began at the prestigious Brasenose College, Oxford, where he matriculated in 1621 and successfully earned his Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in 1624. This foundational education equipped him with a robust theological framework, preparing him for a life dedicated to ministry and spiritual guidance.

Following his ordination, Ambrose commenced his pastoral career, securing the curacy of St Edmund’s Church in Castleton, Derbyshire, in 1627. A curacy, in the context of the Anglican Church, typically involved serving as an assistant to the rector or vicar, carrying out pastoral duties and delivering sermons within a specific parish. This early appointment provided him with practical experience in ministering to a local congregation.

By 1631, Ambrose's growing reputation as a compelling preacher led to his appointment as one of the King's Four Preachers in Lancashire. This was a distinguished role, typically granted by King Charles I, intended to propagate royal and ecclesiastical policies throughout the region. Despite his Puritan convictions, his appointment suggests a degree of recognition for his abilities, even if his theological leanings might have diverged from the King's more Arminian or Laudian sympathies.

The escalating tensions leading to and during the English Civil War profoundly impacted Ambrose's life and ministry. As a staunch Puritan, he found himself at odds with the Royalist establishment. He was notably twice imprisoned by commissioners of array—officials appointed by the King to raise troops and enforce royal authority, often targeting those perceived as disloyal or sympathetic to the Parliamentarian cause. These imprisonments underscore the personal risks and severe repercussions faced by ministers who upheld Puritan ideals during this tumultuous era.

Throughout the Interregnum, Isaac Ambrose dedicated his efforts to the establishment and propagation of Presbyterianism in England. Presbyterianism, a system of church governance where authority rests with a series of elected elders (presbyters) rather than bishops (episcopacy), gained significant traction during this period. Ambrose served successively in key pastoral roles, contributing to the development of Presbyterian structures in various communities:

However, the Restoration of the Monarchy in 1660 brought a dramatic shift in the religious landscape. With the re-establishment of the Anglican Church, the Act of Uniformity of 1662 was enacted, demanding strict adherence to the revised Book of Common Prayer and episcopal ordination for all clergy. As a committed Nonconformist who refused to comply with these new mandates, Ambrose was among the approximately 2,000 ministers famously ejected from his living in 1662. This "Great Ejection" marked a pivotal moment in English religious history, solidifying the distinction between the Established Church and dissenting Protestant denominations.

Beyond his active ministry, Isaac Ambrose left an enduring legacy through his influential religious works. His writings, deeply rooted in Puritan piety and practical theology, continued to inspire generations. His most renowned work, Looking unto Jesus (first published in 1657), is a profound and devotional exposition on the person and work of Christ, emphasizing the believer's constant reliance on Jesus for all aspects of salvation and sanctification. Other notable publications include Prima, Media, & Ultima (1650), which also explored themes of Christian experience and assurance. These works solidified his reputation as a significant voice in Puritan literature, valued for their spiritual depth and practical application.

Isaac Ambrose's life encapsulates the challenges and convictions of English Puritanism. From his academic beginnings at Oxford to his steadfast commitment to Nonconformity, his story highlights the enduring power of faith in the face of political and ecclesiastical pressures. His published works remain a testament to his spiritual insight and a valuable resource for understanding 17th-century Reformed theology.

Frequently Asked Questions about Isaac Ambrose

Who was Isaac Ambrose?
Isaac Ambrose was a prominent English Puritan divine, minister, and author who lived during the 17th century (1604-1664). He is known for his influential devotional writings and his steadfast adherence to Puritan and Presbyterian principles amidst significant religious and political upheaval in England.
Where did Isaac Ambrose receive his education?
He studied at Brasenose College, Oxford, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in 1624.
Why was Isaac Ambrose imprisoned?
Isaac Ambrose was imprisoned twice by royalist commissioners of array during the English Civil War. This was likely due to his Puritan convictions and his alignment with the Parliamentarian cause, which put him at odds with the King's forces.
What was the "Act of Uniformity 1662" and how did it affect Ambrose?
The Act of Uniformity 1662 was a law passed after the Restoration of King Charles II, which mandated strict conformity to the Church of England's doctrines and practices. As a Nonconformist who refused to comply, Isaac Ambrose, like many other Puritan ministers, was ejected from his church living in Garstang in 1662, marking the end of his public ministry within the established church.
What is Isaac Ambrose's most famous work?
His most famous and enduring work is Looking unto Jesus (published in 1657), a profound devotional treatise on the person and work of Christ, which remains a classic in Puritan literature.