US History: Module 2

Introduction to Winthrop's Model of Christian Charity

  • Written by Governor John Winthrop in 1630 on board the Arbella.

Contextual Framework

  • Divine Providence: God has ordained that humanity be divided into categories (rich, poor, powerful, and meek) for reasons of glory, preservation, and order.

  • Three Key Reasons:

    1. Conformity to Divine Order:

    • Displays the glory of God's wisdom through diversity.

    • Reflects God's power in governance and stewardship.

    1. Manifestation of the Holy Spirit:

    • Viewed in the moderation of the wicked, preventing oppression by the rich and resistance from the poor.

    • Seen in the exercise of virtues (love, mercy, etc.) among the rich and faith, patience, etc., among the poor.

    1. Interdependence of Humanity:

    • Necessitates social bonds and mutual support between all individuals, highlighting God's glory over material wealth.

Classification of Humanity

  • Two Groups:

    • Rich: Able to live comfortably through their means.

    • Poor: Defined as all others not in that position.

Guiding Principles of Interaction

  • Two Rules: Justice and Mercy.

    1. Justice:

    • Distinct but can inform actions concerning mercy.

    • Justice ensures rights are fulfilled, while mercy allows for compassion.

    1. Mercy:

    • Involves aiding others in distress, performed out of genuine affection.

  • Dual Laws:

    1. Law of Nature: Commands love for one's neighbor as oneself (foundational moral law).

    2. Law of Grace (Gospel): Emphasizes Christian brotherhood and urges mercy even towards enemies (e.g., Matthew 5:44).

Addressing Objections and Clarifications

  • Concern for Personal Security:

    • Reference to Solomon's wisdom in planning for future needs, balanced with the call for generosity in extraordinary times.

Practical Applications of Charity

  • Types of Charity:

    • Giving: Must align with both the ordinary and extraordinary needs.

    • Lending: Should be evaluated based on the borrower's ability to repay; one must lend generously to the needy regardless of risk of loss.

    • Forgiving Debts: Required if the borrower is incapable of repayment unless there is collateral.

Relative Importance of Community and Common Good

  • Importance of charitable actions in times of shared peril or distress, supporting communal efforts and sacrifices beyond self-interest.

  • Curses on Non-supporters:

    • Warnings against neglecting the poor and needy, with references to punitive Biblical examples.

Love as the Foundation of Generosity

  • Definition of Love: A binding force that pleases God and is essential for community strength and unity (citing scriptural examples).

  • Biblical Teachings:

    • Christ's teachings regarding love and mutual support among believers (1 John 3:16, Galatians 6:2).

Dynamics of Mutual Support within the Christian Community

  • Christian unity is tied to love between members of the body of Christ, emphasizing vulnerability and shared burdens (1 Corinthians 12).

  • Importance of Sympathetic Actions: The church as a living body with every member interdependent, calling for collective action in faith and community support.

The Nature and Impact of Charity

  • The centrality of love in motivating charitable acts, creating a cycle of mutual benefit and support.

  • Biblical Examples of Generosity: Referencing historical figures from scripture who exemplified love and charity (e.g., Jonathan and David’s bond, sacrifices of early Christians).

The Call to Action for Winthrop's Community

  • As a cohesive group, Winthrop emphasizes:

    • The need for mutual support and breaking of individualism for the common good.

    • Responsibilities to God and fellow community members must guide actions as settlers.

    • The goal of their endeavor is not just survival but flourishing and serving God through community exemplification.

  • Covenantal Relationship with God: The settlers’ commitments to maintain their covenant obligations will ensure God’s blessings and favor.

  • They are to remember that their actions will be closely watched, creating the imperative to live righteously as a “city upon a hill.”

Conclusion and Ethical Implications

  • Choice Between Life and Death: Their covenant with God requires steadfast devotion, not only to Him but to one another.

  • Importance of righteous living for personal and communal prosperity, as outlined in Deuteronomy 30.

  • Final exhortation to uphold their commitments through love, generosity, and a spirit of fellowship, enhancing the potential for divine favor.