John Flavel

Date of Birth: 1627

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: 1691

Biography

John Flavel was an influential English Presbyterian clergyman, born in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, in 1627. He was the son of Richard Flavel, a minister who was ejected from his living in 1662 for nonconformity. John Flavel was educated at University College, Oxford, and later became a minister in Dartmouth, Devon. His ministry was notable for its focus on pastoral care, practical theology, and the spiritual well-being of his congregation. Despite facing persecution after the Act of Uniformity in 1662, which led to his ejection from his parish, he continued to preach in secret and write extensively. His works, such as “The Fountain of Life” and “A Saint Indeed,” remain influential in Reformed theology. Flavel’s life was marked by a dedication to his faith and his community, making him a respected and enduring figure in Christian history.

5 Interesting Facts about John Flavel

1. John Flavel was ejected from his parish after the Act of Uniformity in 1662 but continued to preach in secret.

2. He wrote extensively, with some of his most famous works being “The Fountain of Life,” “A Saint Indeed,” and “The Mystery of Providence.”

3. Flavel was known for his practical approach to theology, focusing on how Christian principles could be applied in daily life.

4. He faced significant persecution for his nonconformist beliefs, including threats and fines, yet he remained steadfast in his faith.

5. Flavel’s writings have had a lasting impact on Reformed theology and continue to be read and studied by theologians today.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Flavel

1. “Man’s extremity is God’s opportunity.”

2. “Providences are sometimes dark texts that want an expounding.”

3. “They that know God will be humble, and they that know themselves cannot be proud.”

4. “The greatest difficulty in conversion is to win the heart to God; and the greatest difficulty after conversion is to keep the heart with God.”

5. “There is not a greater discovery of hypocrisy in the world than a man who is zealous for the form of godliness but a stranger to the power of it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a clergyman in the 17th century, John Flavel did not amass significant wealth. His highest net worth would likely have been modest and typical of a minister of his time, focused more on spiritual wealth and community service rather than material gains.

Children

John Flavel had children, but specific details about them are not well-documented. It is known that he had at least one son, who followed in his father’s footsteps in terms of religious dedication.