THANKSGIVING PRODUCES THANKS – LIVING – Part 2

AMERICAN CHRISTIAN HISTORY INSTITUTE
EAGLE’S AERIE

James and Barbara Rose

THANKSGIVING PRODUCES THANKS – LIVING
Part 2

FOUR PRIMARY REASONS THE PILGRIMS CAME TO AMERICA

1.  To protect their children from degeneracy and corruption. “Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father.” Prov. 28:7 “…their dearest children…of best dispositions and gracious inclinations, were…oppressed with their heavy labors, … became decrepit in their early youth, and by the great licentiousness of youth in (Holland) and the manifold temptations of the place, were drawn away by evil examples into extravagant and dangerous courses, getting the reigns off their necks, departing from their parents, … tending to dissoluteness and the danger of their souls, to the great grief of the parents and dishonor of God.” (William Bradford)
2.  To propagate and advance the Gospel of the Kingdom of Christ “Go ye therefore and teach all nations,…” Matt. 28:19 “Lastly, and which was not least, a great hope and inward zeal they had of laying some good foundation, or at least to make some way thereunto, for the propagating and advancing the gospel of the kingdom of Christ in to those remote parts of the world.” (William Bradford)

In the name of God, Amen. We whose names are underwritten…having undertaken, for the glory of God, and advancement of the Christian faith, and honor of our king and country, a voyage…do by these present solemnly and mutually in the presence of God, and one another, covenant and combine ourselves together into a civil body politic, for our better ordering and preservation…” (Mayflower Document)

3. To obtain and preserve Religious Liberty. “Standfast, therefore, in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made you free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” Gal. 6:1 “And some of the chief of that company (of Pilgrims) doubted not to obtain their suit of the king FOR LIBERTY IN RELIGION, and to have it confirmed under the kings broad seal, according to their desires.” (William Bradford)
4. To be as “stepping-stones” unto others for the performing of so great a work.

“..yea, though they should be but even as stepping-stones unto others for the performing of so great a work.” (William Bradford) “I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.” I Cor. 3:6

Reprinted by permission

Check for Part III Tomorrow

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