> [!Quote] William Bagshawe
> The vessels are fullest of grace which are nearest to the spring; the more Christ’s glory is beheld, the more men are changed.
This quote is attributed to William Bagshawe, a 17th-century English Puritan minister known as the “Apostle of the Peak” for his evangelistic work in the Peak District.
This saying emphasizes the transformative power of closely contemplating Christ’s glory. Bagshawe suggests that those who remain near the source of spiritual grace—Christ Himself—are most abundantly filled with it. By beholding Christ’s glory, individuals undergo a profound change, becoming more aligned with His character and virtues.
This concept aligns with biblical teachings, such as 2 Corinthians 3:18, which speaks of believers being transformed into Christ’s image by beholding His glory. The context of Bagshawe’s statement likely pertains to the practice of meditation on Scripture and the person of Christ, encouraging believers to engage deeply with their faith to experience spiritual growth and transformation.
# William Bagshawe (1628-1702)
William Bagshawe (1628–1702) was an English Puritan minister, preacher, and writer, often referred to as the “Apostle of the Peak” for his extensive evangelistic work in the Peak District of Derbyshire, England. Born into a prominent family in Litton, he was educated at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge.
Bagshawe became a minister at Glossop and later in Chapel-en-le-Frith but was ejected from his parish position following the [[Act of Uniformity]] in 1662, which expelled nonconforming ministers from the Church of England. Despite his ejection, he continued preaching and ministering to local congregations, often in private homes and remote areas to avoid persecution, aligning with the nonconformist movement during the English Restoration.
Bagshawe was deeply committed to the Puritan emphasis on personal piety, meditation on Scripture, and the transformative power of beholding Christ’s glory. His writings and sermons encouraged spiritual growth and faithfulness under persecution.
He remained active in ministry until his death in 1702, leaving a legacy of faithfulness, pastoral care, and devotion to Christ.