The English Connection: The Puritan Roots of Seventh-Day Adventism By Bryan Ball A detailed historical study of 17th century Puritan theology, showing how many of its specific doctrines influenced the development of Seventh-Day Adventism. ISBN-13: 9780227678442 Specifications: 216x135mm, 320pp, Hardback Price: £25.00 • US$52.50 Publication: November 1987 Order this Title Now

About this Book

One of the phenomena that has puzzled historians of the 17th century is the failure of Puritan ideas to have any significant influence in English church history after the Great Ejection in 1662. In The English Connection, Dr Bryan Ball provides an answer to many of the questions that arise as the result of this phenomenon.

This book is a study of the Puritan movement in England, examining its influence on later religious movements and in particular on Seventh-Day Adventism. Dr Ball begins with a comprehensive history of Puritanism, emphasising its reliance on biblical exegesis and exposition - factors which contribute to the drawing together of many strands of 17th century religious thought. He displays his deep knowledge of the period in a detailed exploration of specific doctrinal tenets. Areas covered include: the believer's baptism and the necessity of regeneration, gospel obedience, the seventh-day Sabbath, the return of Christ, the world to come and the new earth.

Dr Ball draws on sources as diverse as John Bunyan and John Owen to prove his thesis that strong common bonds united the 17th century Puritans, giving a firm historico-biblical background for the modern movement of Seventh-Day Adventism. He examines the 'Puritan Spirit' of the 17th century, demonstrating its invigorating effect on contemporary Christian thought and on those who benefit from that tradition today.

Thus Dr Ball's work, as is shown in his title, is not only a historical study of Puritanism, but is concerned to prove the continuity and cohesion of Puritan ideas from their growth in 17th century England to the thriving community of present day Seventh-Day Adventists. This book, which substantiates the traditional roots of an expanding church, will be of interest both to historians of doctrine and of the 17th century, and to all practising Adventists. The chapters dealing with the basic tenets of historical Christianity will appeal to many from the wider Christian community, particularly those who are interested in comparing contemporary Christian thought with traditional Protestant doctrine.

About the Author

Dr Bryan Ball is Head of the Department of Theology at Newbold College. His publications also include A Great Expectation: Eschatological Thought in English Protestantism to 1660.