John Winthrop1588-1649

Winthrop Background

• Born in Groton, England on estate his father purchased from Henry VIII.

• He wished to reform the national church from within.• He almost became a clergyman, but instead became a lawyer.• A severe economic depression and Catholic king (Charles I) led

to Winthrop getting permission to emigrate.• The Company of Massachusetts Bay in New England• Winthrop was chosen governor.• Cotton Mather considered Winthrop the “perfect earthly ruler”

and a man of “unquestionable integrity and deep humanity” (91).

“A Model of Christian Charity”

• A sermon that lays out the ideals of a “harmonious Christian community.”

• They would stand as an example of either the triumph or failure of “this Christian enterprise” (91).

• P. 91: God has “disposed” of mankind so that there must be a bit of every kind of person.

• God takes joy in allowing man to dispense his gifts.

• This trip allows Him the chance to “manifest” the work of His Spirit.

“A Model of Christian Charity”

• All men need each other and should form “bonds of brotherly affection” (91).

• Men that are rich should contribute it to God and not be vain about it.

• 2 rules: justice and mercy • Law of nature and grace (moral law and Gospel law)• Conflicts between nature and grace:• Gospel trumps moral (innocence)• Brothers in Christ, but recognize a difference between Christians

and others• Love your neighbor as yourself.

“A Model of Christian Charity”

• There is a time you must sell all and give it to the poor (93).

• You must sometimes give beyond your ability.

• Duty of mercy: giving, lending, and forgiving (93).

• Battle: giving as God says vs. securing your future

• Having wealth is not bad as long as you are willing to help others in need.

• What is the purpose of having Bible verses as answers to each question asked?

• All Christians are one body in Christ and were knit together with love (96).

“A Model of Christian Charity”

• We have a “native desire and endeavor to strengthen, defend, preserve, and comfort” each other (97).

• Why does the Lord love his people according to Winthrop?• It is natural for people to love each other (98-99).• 4 conclusions:• Love among Christians is a real thing.• Love is necessary to the body of Christ.• This love is a divine, spiritual nature and shouldn’t be

undervalued.• Everyone is knit together by this love.

“A Model of Christian Charity”

• P. 99-They haven’t worked together before and are only united as Christians.

• They mutually agree to work together and be governed by a general set of rules.

• They have been given a “special commission” to embark on this journey (100).

• What was the goal of this sermon?

• Did Winthrop achieve the goal he desired?