Paradox and Perseverance

Studies In Baptist History And ThoughtThe seventeenth century was a significant period in English history during which the people of England experienced unprecedented change and tumult in all spheres of life. At the same time, the importance of order and the traditional institutions of society were being reinforced. Hanserd Knollys, born during this pivotal period, personified in his life the ambiguity, tension, and paradox of it, openly seeking change while at the same time cautiously embracing order. As a founder and leader of the Particular Baptists in London, despite persecution and personal hardship, he played a pivotal role in helping shape their identity externally in society and internally, as they moved toward becoming more formalized by the close of the country.""Hanserd Knollys was among the most prominent, and probably the most learned, of the early Baptist leaders. In one of the most thorough studies of a seventeenth-century Baptist that we possess, Dennis Bustin shows how the interplay of conscience and conformity worked out in his long life.""--David Bebbington, Professor of History, University of Stirling, UK""Dr. Bustin has written an admirable book that carefully works through significant primary and secondary material. Overall Paradox and Perseverance attains a high scholarly standard, and also enriches our understanding of the religious history of the English Revolution.""--Ian Gentles, from the Foreword""A definitive study of a central figure in the early Baptist story, this work also sets a benchmark for future monographs on Baptist leaders of this era. Utilizing an exhaustive examination of all of the relevant primary sources, Bustin is able to make an informed and judicious assessment of Knollys' significance within his Baptist world and also in the wider historical context. A fine piece of scholarship!""--Michael A. G. Haykin, Principal and Professor of Church History and Reformed Spirituality, Toronto Baptist Seminary, Toronto , and Visiting Professor of Church History, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky, USADennis Bustin's early studies focused on New Testament studies and backgrounds, including a ThM from Harvard University. Following this, he shifted his attention to history earning an MA and PhD from Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. His research continues to concentrate on the Stuart era of British history. Dr. Bustin is currently Associate Professor of History at Atlantic Baptist University in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada.