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The Apology of the Church of England

Written by John Jewel

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Church of EnglandAnglican Communion

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About this book

"The Apology of the Church of England" by John Jewel is a historical theological treatise written in the late 16th century. This work aims to articulate and defend the principles of the Reformed Church of England during a time of intense scrutiny and opposition, primarily against accusations of heresy from Catholic critics. Jewel's argument centers on the idea that the English Reformation was not an innovation but a return to the tenets of early Christianity. The opening of the treatise presents a robust defense of truth in the face of lies and misrepresentations, drawing parallels between the experiences of early Christians and the contemporary challenges faced by Jewel and his supporters. Jewel asserts that throughout history, champions of truth have often been maligned, a sentiment he elaborates on by referencing biblical figures who suffered slander and persecution for their faith. Crucially, he positions the Church of England within this legacy, contending that its practices align with the original teachings of Christ and the Apostles, thereby countering claims that it represents a departure from traditional Christianity. This foundation sets the stage for a deeper exploration of doctrine and ecclesiastical authority as the text progresses.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Apology of the Church of England, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 15 hours
  • advanced
  • Defensive
  • Scholarly
  • Polemical

John Jewel's "The Apology of the Church of England" is a foundational theological treatise from the late 16th century, serving as a robust defense of the newly established Reformed Church of England. Written amidst intense Catholic opposition, the work systematically articulates Anglican principles, asserting they represent a return to the pristine doctrines of early Christianity rather than a novel heresy. Jewel masterfully employs historical, scriptural, and patristic arguments to counter accusations, portraying the English Reformation as a restoration of truth. The treatise begins with a powerful assertion of the Church's integrity in the face of slander, setting the stage for a detailed exposition of its faith and practices. Ultimately, it solidifies the intellectual and spiritual legitimacy of the Church of England, positioning it within a continuous legacy of apostolic truth.

“We have departed from them, not from the Catholic Church; not from the Apostles, not from Christ, but from the Pope.”

Key themes

Return to Apostolic Christianity
This is the central organizing theme of the Apology. Jewel consistently argues that the English Reformation is not an innovation or a break from the true Church, but a restoration of the doctrines and practices of the early Christian church, as understood from the New Testament and the first centuries of Christian history. He portrays the Church of England as purifying itself from later medieval corruptions and returning to a 'primitive' faith.
Legitimacy of the English Reformation
This theme underpins the entire Apology. Jewel's ultimate goal is to establish the theological, historical, and moral legitimacy of the Church of England's separation from Rome and its reformed practices. He argues that the Reformation was not a rebellious act but a necessary and divinely guided restoration, aligning the English Church with the true, universal (Catholic) Church of Christ.
Scriptural Authority
Jewel places paramount importance on the Holy Scriptures as the ultimate rule of faith and practice. He argues that any doctrine or practice not found in or directly deducible from the Bible is suspect, and that the Church of England's reforms are entirely grounded in biblical teaching. This aligns with the broader Protestant principle of 'Sola Scriptura'.

Worth discussing

How does Jewel define 'truth' and 'heresy,' and how do these definitions shape his argument?

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