Apostolic Succession and Church Freedom: The Oxford Movement’s Political Discourse and the Church Temporalities Act of 1833

This essay studies the origins of the Oxford Movement, focusing on its political underpinnings, which have historically been underemphasised in favour of its theological aspects. By examining the Church Temporalities Act of 1833 and its repercussions, the study argues that political circumstances significantly catalysed the movement’s emergence. Through an analysis of writings and sermons from influential figures such as John Keble, Richard Hurrell Froude, Edward Bouverie Pusey, and John Henry Newman, this research highlights how the concept of apostolic succession was strategically employed not only as a doctrinal stance but also as a rhetorical and political instrument to advocate for the church’s sovereignty against state interference, also on the issue of episcopal nominations.