John Jewel Quotes

Powerful John Jewel for Daily Growth

About John Jewel

John Jewel Quotes (1522-1573), an influential Anglican theologian and Bishop of Salisbury during the Church of England's formative years, left an indelible mark on English Reformation thought. Born in Exeter, Devon, in 1522, he was educated at Magdalen College, Oxford, where he developed a deep interest in theology and Church politics. Jewel's life and works were deeply influenced by the tumultuous religious climate of his time. The Reformation had just begun to take root in England under Henry VIII, and Jewel was drawn into this whirlwind of change. His theological views were shaped by the ideas of Protestant reformers such as Martin Luther and John Calvin, while maintaining a strong respect for Catholic traditions and rituals. In 1548, Jewel was appointed Regius Professor of Divinity at Oxford, a position he held until his appointment as Bishop of Salisbury in 1560. As a bishop, Jewel played a key role in shaping the Church of England's liturgy and doctrine, which sought to find a middle ground between Catholicism and Puritanism. Jewel is best known for his work "The Apology of the Church of England," published in 1562. In this seminal text, he defended the Church of England against criticisms from both Roman Catholics and Puritans, arguing that it represented a true continuation of the ancient Catholic Church while embracing the principles of reform. Jewel's influence extended beyond his writings. He was known for his pastoral care, visiting parishes throughout his diocese and offering guidance to priests under his jurisdiction. His death in 1573 marked a significant loss for the Church of England, leaving behind a rich legacy of thoughtful theology and practical pastoral wisdom that continues to inspire scholars and church leaders today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Nothing is more certain than that individuals ignoraunt in one science is proved ignoramus in all."

This quote by John Jewel suggests that a lack of knowledge or understanding in one area of study implies an overall lack of intelligence or knowledge, given that intellectual abilities are transferable across different disciplines. Essentially, being uninformed about a specific topic indicates a general absence of learning, not just in the subject at hand but throughout one's education. It underscores the importance of continuous learning and well-rounded education for personal growth and development.


"When we read the Scriptures we should not seek to extract from them a few passages to support our own prejudices, but rather conform our judgement and feelings to the general tenor of the Holy Scriptures."

This quote emphasizes the importance of reading and interpreting the Bible with an open mind, seeking understanding in accordance with its overall message rather than cherry-picking verses to support personal biases or preconceived notions. It's a call for humility, respect, and faithfulness when engaging with scripture, recognizing that our beliefs should align with the broader teachings of the Holy Scriptures, rather than attempting to manipulate them to fit our own perspectives.


"The Word of God is like a key which opens doors that were closed; it is like a torch which drives away darkness, and causes the way to be lighted up; it is like a rudder which guides the ship in the right channel; it is like an anchor which holds the vessel fast in calm or tempestuous weather."

The quote suggests that the Word of God (the Bible) serves as a powerful tool for understanding and navigating life's challenges. It illuminates our path by opening hidden truths, dispelling spiritual darkness, guiding us through difficult decisions, providing stability in both calm and stormy times, and keeping us anchored to divine wisdom. In essence, it is a beacon of light, guidance, and security in our spiritual journey.


"It is not enough to know the truth, we must live it also."

This quote emphasizes that mere knowledge or understanding of truth isn't sufficient; one must embody and live it as well. It suggests a call for action based on awareness, advocating for not just intellectual comprehension, but practical application of the truth in daily life. The message encourages individuals to put their beliefs into practice, demonstrating the importance of both understanding and living values, principles, or truths.


"The Scripture maketh no man to be a judge who hath not the fear of God before his eyes."

This quote by John Jewel emphasizes that a judge should possess a deep reverence for God, as this fear guides them towards fairness, integrity, and impartiality in their decision-making process. In other words, God's presence serves as a moral compass for the judge, ensuring they uphold justice with respect to both the law and the spirit of righteousness.


But the law of God came from heaven indeed. God wrote it with his finger, it is the fountain of all wisdom, and therefore shall it continue for ever, and never have an end.

- John Jewel

Law, Fountain, Finger, Indeed

But the word of the Gospel is not as the word of an earthly prince.

- John Jewel

Gospel, Word, Prince, Earthly

The word of God is full of sad and grave counsel, full of the knowledge of God, of examples of virtues, and of correction of vices, of the end of this life, and of the life to come.

- John Jewel

Virtues, Grave, Counsel, Vices

The number of witches had everywhere become enormous.

- John Jewel

Number, Everywhere, Had, Witches

Human knowledge is dark and uncertain; philosophy is dark, astrology is dark, and geometry is dark.

- John Jewel

Dark, Geometry, Astrology, Human Knowledge

Among all his creatures in heaven or earth, God hath not made any like unto the sun in the firmament, the beams whereof are beautiful and pleasant, and do give comfort in all places to all things.

- John Jewel

Beautiful, Sun, His, God Hath

Adam was placed in Paradise in perfect estate, and in the company of God's angels; God walked and did talk with him. He heard the voice, and beheld the presence of God.

- John Jewel

Voice, Adam, Placed, Presence

As the body dieth when the soul departeth, so the soul of man dieth, when it hath not the knowledge of God.

- John Jewel

Man, Soul, Body, Hath

The word of God is that unto our souls, which our soul is unto our body.

- John Jewel

Soul, Souls, Which, Unto

If we learn not humility, we learn nothing.

- John Jewel

Learn, Nothing, Humility

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