Basic HTML Version
Chapter 16—Seeking Freedom in a New World
Though the authority and creed of Rome were rejected, not a few
of her ceremonies were incorporated into the worship of the Church
of England. It was claimed that things not forbidden in Scripture
were not intrinsically evil. Their observance tended to narrow the
gulf which separated the reformed churches from Rome, and it was
urged that they would promote acceptance of the Protestant faith by
Romanists.
Another class did not so judge. They looked upon these customs
as badges of the slavery from which they had been delivered. They
reasoned that God has in His Word established the regulations gov-
erning His worship, and that men are not at liberty to add to these or
to detract from them. Rome began by enjoining what God had not
forbidden, and ended by forbidding what He had explicitly enjoined.
Many regarded the customs of the English Church as monu-
ments of idolatry, and they could not unite in her worship. But the
church, supported by civil authority, would permit no dissent. Unau-
thorized assemblies for worship were prohibited under penalty of
imprisonment, exile, or death.
Hunted, persecuted, and imprisoned, Puritans could discern no
promise of better days. Some, determined to seek refuge in Hol-
land, were betrayed into the hands of their enemies. But steadfast
perseverance finally conquered, and they found shelter on friendly
shores.
They had left their houses and their means of livelihood. They
were strangers in a strange land, forced to resort to untried occupa-
tions to earn their bread. But they lost no time in idleness or repining.
[182]
They thanked God for the blessings granted them and found joy in
unmolested spiritual communion.
165