Christianity in the 14th century ever more complex and subtle in its distinctions and arguments. There was a rise to dominance of the nominalist or voluntarist theologies of men like William of Ockham. The 14th century was also a time in which movements of widely varying character worked for the reform of the institutional church, such as conciliarism, Lollardy and the Hussites. Spiritual movements such as the Devotio Moderna also flourished. Notable authors include: Under church tradition the practice of Hesychasm has it beginnings in the bible, Matthew 6:6 and the Philokalia. The tradition of contemplation with inner silence or tranquility is shared by all
John Spalding (14th-century MP) John Spalding (14th-century MP) John Spalding (fl. 1388), of Kingston upon Hull, Yorkshire, was an English politician and cloth merchant. Nothing is known of Spalding's family. John Spalding of York was also a cloth merchant at this time in the same county, but there is no proof that they were related. Spalding was the coroner for Kingston upon Hull by February 1389 until after Michaelmas 1392. He held the title Searcher of ships, Kingston-upon-Hull from 14 November 1379 until 8 February 1384. He was Bailiff of Kingston upon Hull in 1385–86 and 1398–99. He exported cloth from the port of