Samuel Bold

Samuel Bold (1649–1737) was an English clergyman and controversialist, known for his staunch support of John Locke's principles of religious toleration. Born in Chester, he was educated by a nonconformist minister. Bold served as the vicar of Shapwick in Dorset from 1674, though he resigned or was ejected in 1688. Subsequently, he became the rector of Steeple in the Isle of Purbeck in 1682, a position he held until his death. In 1721, he also took on the adjacent parish of Tyneham. Bold's theological and political stances often led him into conflict. In 1682, his sermon against persecution, published with Awnsham Churchill, and his subsequent "Plea for Moderation towards Dissenters" caused significant outcry. He faced accusations of preaching a "scandalous libel" and was compelled to preach recantation sermons, enduring seven weeks in prison due to fines related to his publications and a letter written in support of a dissenting apothecary. His most significant literary contributions were made in defense of John Locke's works, particularly "The Reasonableness of Christianity" and "An Essay Concerning Human Understanding." Bold published several tracts between 1697 and 1699, including "A Discourse on the True Knowledge of Christ Jesus," which argued that belief in Jesus as the Christ was sufficient for a Christian. He also commented on Locke's essay, earning praise from Locke himself. In addition to his controversial works, Bold also published devotional writings, such as "Christ's Importunity with Sinners to accept of Him" and "Meditations on Death." His final controversial work, "Some Thoughts concerning Church Authority," published in 1724, addressed the Bangorian Controversy. Despite facing criticism, Bold remained a consistent advocate for religious tolerance throughout his life.