The (1716–1721) was one of the most significant ideological and theological conflicts within the Church of England during the 18th century . It pitted "High Church" proponents of ecclesiastical authority against "Low Church" Latitudinarians who favored a religion of private conscience. Origin and Key Figures
The controversy had lasting consequences for both English religion and politics: The Church of England and the Bangorian Controv...
: He supported repealing laws that forced non-conformists to participate in Anglican ceremonies, believing that sincerity and liberty of conscience were paramount. Historical Significance and Impact The (1716–1721) was one of the most significant
: On March 31, 1717, Hoadly preached a sermon before the King titled "The Nature of the Kingdom, or Church, of Christ" . Based on John 18:36 ("My kingdom is not of this world"), he argued that Christ had not delegated any temporal authority to his representatives. Historical Significance and Impact : On March 31,
The dispute revolved around the fundamental nature of the Christian Church and its relationship to the state:
: Hoadly rejected the doctrine of apostolic succession , claiming it encouraged a "spiritual power" that wrongly sought to control human conscience.
: Hoadly viewed the Church as an invisible society where individual sincerity was the only true test of faith. Opponents argued this denied the Church's role as a visible, authoritative institution.