An Ecclesiastical History, Ancient and Modern

5b Johann Lorenz von Mosheim. From the Birth of Christ to the Beginning of the Present Century. London, 1765.

Notes

An Ecclesiastical History, Ancient and Modern is a comprehensive work of church history written by Johann Lorenz von Mosheim, a German Lutheran theologian and scholar. Originally published in Latin in the 18th century as Institutiones Historiae Ecclesiasticae, the work was later translated into English—most notably by Archibald Maclaine in the 1760s. The book offers a chronological and analytical account of the Christian Church from its beginnings to the early modern period, examining key theological developments, controversies, church figures, councils, and the relationship between church and state. Mosheim approached church history with a rational, Enlightenment-influenced perspective, aiming for a clear, impartial, and scholarly narrative.

What sets Mosheim’s Ecclesiastical History apart from earlier histories is its attempt to move beyond simple denominational bias. He structured the work around thematic sections—covering doctrine, governance, worship, and daily life—within each historical era, giving readers a broad and nuanced understanding of how Christianity evolved. His influence extended well into the 19th century, with his history widely used in theological seminaries and cited for its intellectual rigor. Though modern scholarship has surpassed some of his methods and findings, Mosheim’s work remains a significant milestone in the development of historical theology and the academic study of church history.

Description

Calf leather binding with five raised bands, red leather label in the second compartment and black leather label in the third compartment with gilt lettering. Some chipping to the upper and lower spine of volume one. Rubbing to the extremities. Fine condition overall.