John Tillotson Quotes

Powerful John Tillotson for Daily Growth

About John Tillotson

John Tillotson (1630-1694), an influential Anglican bishop and orator, was born on February 15, 1630, in Eastington, Gloucestershire, England. His early life was marked by a strong educational background, as he attended the University of Oxford's Queen's College where he distinguished himself as a scholar. Tillotson rose through the ranks of the Church of England, serving as Rector of St Mary Aldermary in London and Bishop of Bath and Wells before becoming Archbishop of Canterbury in 1691. Tillotson's tenure at Canterbury was marked by his commitment to the Anglican faith during a time of religious turmoil. His sermons, known for their clarity, eloquence, and rational approach, were instrumental in shaping the Church's doctrine. One of his most famous sermons, "The Nature of the Eucharist," was published after his death and remains a significant work in Anglican theology. In addition to his religious pursuits, Tillotson was also a key figure in English politics. He served as a chaplain to King Charles II and played a role in the Glorious Revolution of 1688 that deposed James II. Tillotson's works continue to influence contemporary Anglican thought. His sermons, collected under the title "Works of the Reverend John Tillotson," are still widely read and studied. His legacy as a scholar, bishop, and political advisor solidified his place as one of the most important figures in 17th-century England. He died on November 30, 1694, and was buried at Westminster Abbey.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"A good sermon is a life in miniature."

This quote by John Tillotson suggests that a good sermon, or religious speech, should ideally reflect the essence of a well-lived life. It implies that just as a life should embody virtues such as kindness, wisdom, and integrity, a good sermon should convey these same qualities in a compact form, offering guidance, inspiration, and spiritual nourishment to its audience. In other words, the structure and content of a great sermon should mirror the character, wisdom, and purpose of an exemplary life.


"The best way to be acquainted with God is to live much alone."

This quote suggests that solitude provides an opportunity for deep introspection and connection with one's spiritual self, thus leading to a greater understanding of God or a higher power. Living alone, away from the distractions and noise of the world, allows one to focus on self-reflection and contemplation, thereby strengthening their relationship with the divine.


"To know Him more fully, we must follow Him more closely."

This quote by John Tillotson suggests that in order to gain a deeper understanding or knowledge of God (Him), one needs to walk closer with Him in life - following His teachings, principles, and guidance consistently. The implication is that the act of following God will naturally lead us towards knowing Him more intimately as we experience His presence, wisdom, and love in our daily lives. In essence, this quote is a call to action for those seeking spiritual growth: by faithfully following God's path, we deepen our relationship with Him, and consequently come to know Him better.


"He that loves much, prays much; he that prays much, receives much."

The quote suggests a correlation between the depth of one's love and their prayerfulness, as well as between prayerfulness and the abundance of blessings received. The more one loves (and therefore cares deeply), the more they feel compelled to communicate with a higher power or the divine. This increased communication, in turn, leads to a greater flow of blessings or positive experiences.


"Blessed are they who have learned to admire but not to envy."

This quote emphasizes the value of appreciating the achievements, qualities, or possessions of others without feeling envious. Instead, it encourages an attitude of admiration, which focuses on learning from those individuals rather than being consumed by feelings of resentment or inferiority. It suggests that admiration can foster personal growth and understanding, while envy often leads to negative emotions and missed opportunities for learning.


Zeal is fit for wise men, but flourishes chiefly among fools.

- John Tillotson

Wise, Fit, Flourishes, Chiefly

The art of using deceit and cunning grow continually weaker and less effective to the user.

- John Tillotson

Art, Cunning, Effective, Weaker

The crafty person is always in danger; and when they think they walk in the dark, all their pretenses are transparent.

- John Tillotson

Think, Always, Danger, Pretenses

They who are in the highest places, and have the most power, have the least liberty, because they are the most observed.

- John Tillotson

Places, Most, Highest, Observed

Ignorance and inconsideration are the two great causes of the ruin of mankind.

- John Tillotson

Ignorance, Mankind, Causes, Ruin

To be able to bear provocation is an argument of great reason, and to forgive it of a great mind.

- John Tillotson

Mind, Reason, Argument, Provocation

Sincerity is like traveling on a plain, beaten road, which commonly brings a man sooner to his journey's end than by-ways, in which men often lose themselves.

- John Tillotson

Journey, Which, Commonly, Sincerity

A good word is an easy obligation; but not to speak ill requires only our silence, which costs us nothing.

- John Tillotson

Nothing, Costs, Which, Obligation

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