The Authority of Christian Princes over their Ecclesiastical Synods Asserted, written by William Wake and published in 1697, is a major seventeenth‑century defense of royal supremacy over church councils in the Church of England, particularly convocations, the assemblies of bishops and clergy. Wake wrote it in response to a pamphlet arguing for greater independence of Convocation, and he systematically asserts that Christian monarchs — including the English sovereign — have a legitimate and ancient authority to convene, direct, and govern ecclesiastical synods, prescribing what matters they should consider and even presiding over their proceedings. Drawing on historical precedent, legal custom, and the constitutional settlement of the English church since the Reformation, Wake maintained that convocations should not act without royal permission and that the king’s writ was essential both for their meeting and for sanctioning their decisions. Though acknowledging that church councils have a role in doctrine and discipline, his argument reinforces the Erastian principle that the state holds ultimate authority over church structures in the realm, positioning the monarch as guardian of both church and commonwealth.
Description
Rich brown leather, four raised bands, gold leather title band on spine, rubbing on four corners, light repair to spine, intact, and overall good condition.Â
