Response to Winthrop's "A Model of Christian Charity"
In "A Model of Christian Charity," John Winthrop outlines what hebelieves are the core guidelines for the Puritans in New England. Byutilizing scripture from the Bible, Winthrop establishes clear and concisepoints regarding mercy, justice, and love. His method is effective becausehe is speaking to a body of Christians that will respond to scripture in Winthrop demonstrates the significance of justice and mercy byemphasizing conduct, especially toward others who are in distress. Heechoes the Biblical golden rule that individuals should treat others as
LivingBiblically was no doubt a concern for the Puritans and Winthrop's messagetouches on some serious issues that can often cause conflict even betweenChristians. Winthrop is concerned about the well being of his audience and firmlybelieves that living according to scripture will promote a healthy society. Rather, he should be given the things that heneeds. Brotherly love, in Winthrop's opinion can overcome almost anycircumstance. He recountsseveral examples of love relationships from the Bible to prove his point. He also explains to his audience the best way to go about lending,noting that if an individuals does not have the means to repay a loan, heshould not receive a loan. He is also adamant about forgiving debtors who cannot repay loans. Considering that the Puritans desired to be a model, or acity upon a hill, for others this message surely convicted them to pursuelove, justice, and mercy as God proclaims them to be, not as man perceivesthem. He quotesEphesians 4:15-6 and I John 4:8 as reasons why society should strive toattain this type of perfection within the body of the Church. Winthrop also stresses the importance of love, noting it is the bond ofperfection and that this bond makes work perfect. He uses the body ofChrist and the Church as an example and model for perfection. He also refers to the golden rule when explaining this, citing Matthew7:12. He even reminds his audience that theyshould be kind to their enemies because the Bible has instructed them to doso. The point here is to give to those truly in need because it isBiblical.
Common topics in this essay:
Bible Winthrop,
Christ Church,
Considering Puritans,
Biblical Winthrop,
Puritans Winthrop's,
Christians Brotherly,
John Winthrop,
Living Biblically,
Puritans England,
justice mercy,
golden rule,
|
Acceptance Essays
