A Model of Christian Charity

“A Model of Christian Charity”

• Genre: Nonfiction; sermon; Puritan literature
• Originally Published: 1630
• Reading Level/Interest: College/Adult
• Structure/Length: Single sermon; approximately 20 pages; approximately 42 minutes on audiobook
• Central Concern: This sermon, delivered aboard the ship Arabella en route to the Massachusetts Bay Colony, outlines the religious and societal duties of the Puritan settlers. Winthrop emphasizes communal responsibility, charity, and the importance of the new society being a model for others.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Religious themes and language; archaic language and cultural context.

John Winthrop, Author

• Bio: Born 1587; died 1649; wealthy English Puritan lawyer; led a group of English Puritans to the New World in 1630; served as the governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony; influenced the development of the New England colonies with his writings and leadership
• Other Works: The Journal of John Winthrop (1630-1649); The Humble Request of His Majesties Loyal Subjects (1630); A Short Story of the Rise, Reign, and Ruin of the Antinomians, Familists, and Libertines that Infected the Churches of New-England (1692)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

• The Divine Duty of Charity
• Charity as an Expression of Christian Love
• Exceptional Piety to Create an Exceptional Society

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Guide, students will:

• Develop an understanding of the historical and religious contexts surrounding the establishment of the Massachusetts Bay Colony by the Puritans that incites John Winthrop’s sermon.