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diff --git a/13570-h/13570-h.htm b/13570-h/13570-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..3e6e664 --- /dev/null +++ b/13570-h/13570-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,11328 @@ +<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN"> +<html> +<head> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8"> +<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Sketches of the Covenanters, by J. C. McFeeters</title> +<style type="text/css"> + <!-- + body { margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 5%; } + p { text-indent: 1em; + margin-top: .75em; + font-size: 100%; + text-align: justify; + margin-bottom: .75em; } + h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6 { text-align: center; } + hr { width: 50%; } + hr.full { width: 100%; + height: 5px; } + .foot { margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 85%; } + .poem { margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left; } + .poem .stanza { margin: 1em 0em 1em 0em; } + .poem p { margin: 0; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em; } + .poem p.i2 { margin-left: 1em; } + .poem p.i4 { margin-left: 2em; } + .poem p.i6 { margin-left: 3em; } + .poem p.i8 { margin-left: 4em; } + .poem p.i10 { margin-left: 5em; } + .toc { text-indent: 0em; margin-left: 15%; font-size: 80%; margin-bottom: 0em;} + center { padding: 0.8em;} + .imagetable { border: solid 1px #000000; background-color: #F0F0F0; margin: 8px; font-size: 80%; text-align: justify;} + td {padding: 10px} + a:link {color:blue; + text-decoration:none} + link {color:blue; + text-decoration:none} + a:visited {color:blue; + text-decoration:none} + a:hover {color:red} + pre.pg {font-size: 9pt; + margin-left: 3%; } + // --> +</style> +</head> +<body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 13570 ***</div> +<h1>The Project Gutenberg eBook, Sketches of the Covenanters, by J. C. +McFeeters</h1> +<hr class="full" noshade> +<a name="image-0001"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_1.jpg" width="316" height="350" +alt="Modern Church of the Covenanters, Greenock."> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +<h1> + SKETCHES +</h1> +<center> + OF THE<br/> + COVENANTERS<br/><br/> + BY<br/><br/> + +<b>J.C. McFEETERS, D.D.</b><br/><br/> + + MINISTER OF<br/> + The Second Church of the Covenanters, Philadelphia, +<pre> + "That ye may tell it to the generations following; + For this God is our God for ever and ever; + He will be our guide even unto death." +</pre> +</center> +<a name="2H_4_0001"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h3> + THE UNCONQUERABLE COVENANTERS. +</h3> +<p> + "We bind and obligate ourselves to defend ourselves and one another, in + our worshiping of God, and in our natural, civil, and divine rights and + liberties, till we shall overcome, or send them down under debate to + posterity, that they may begin where we end."—<i>Queensferry Paper</i>. +</p> +<a name="2H_PREF"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h3> + PREFACE. +</h3> +<p> + This book is a spontaneous growth, being without pre-meditation or + original intention. A visit to Scotland was the embryo; out of this seed + sprang a stereopticon lecture on "The Martyrs of Scotland;" the lecture + developed into an illustrated serial which was published in the + CHRISTIAN NATION; and the serial, at the request of many readers, + developed into this volume. The book, therefore, was not originally + contemplated; it is a providential growth, rather than a human + conception; and we sincerely trust that it is one of God's eternal + thoughts, blossoming in the sunlight of its own appointed time. +</p> +<p> + May our Lord Jesus Christ add His blessing, and commission these + Sketches to do Him service and glorify His exalted name. +</p> +<p> J.C.M.<br/> +<i>Philadelphia, March 1, 1913.</i> +</p> + + + +<hr> +<table summary="Table of Contents and Illustrations" align=center><tr><td> +<p><b>Contents</b></p> +<br /> +<p class="toc"><a href="#2H_4_0004"> +Chapter I. The Land of the Covenants +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0005"> +Chapter II. The Battle-field of Presbyterianism +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0006"> +Chapter III. Some Early Martyrs +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0007"> +Chapter IV. Knox in the Field of Conflict +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0008"> +Chapter V. Foundation Stones +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0009"> +Chapter VI. The National Covenant +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0010"> +Chapter VII. Contending with the King +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0011"> +Chapter VIII. Men of Might +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0012"> +Chapter IX. Darkness Brooding Over the Land +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0013"> +Chapter X. Approaching a Crisis +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0014"> +Chapter XI. The Advance Guards +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0015"> +Chapter XII. Gathering of the Hosts +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0016"> +Chapter XIII. Renewing the Covenant +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0017"> +Chapter XIV. The Covenanters at Work +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0018"> +Chapter XV. The King Wages War +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0019"> +Chapter XVI. The Solemn League and Covenant +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0020"> +Chapter XVII. High Ideals by the Covenanted Fathers +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0021"> +Chapter XVIII. The Westminster Assembly +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0022"> +Chapter XIX. Division in the Covenanted Ranks +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0023"> +Chapter XX. Crowning the Prince +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0024"> +Chapter XXI. A Sifting Time +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0025"> +Chapter XXII. An Illustrious Martyr +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0026"> +Chapter XXIII. Resisting Unto Blood +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0027"> +Chapter XXIV. Source of the Covenanters' Power +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0028"> +Chapter XXV. Expelling the Ministers +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0029"> +Chapter XXVI. The Field-meetings +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0030"> +Chapter XXVII. The Covenanters' Communion +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0031"> +Chapter XXVIII. The Home Invaded +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0032"> +Chapter XXIX. The Battle of Rullion Green +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0033"> +Chapter XXX. The Oppressor's Revenge +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0034"> +Chapter XXXI. Indulgence, the Six-fold Snare +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0035"> +Chapter XXXII. The Field Meetings Under Fire +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0036"> +Chapter XXXIII. A Massacre +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0037"> +Chapter XXXIV. The Covenanters' Prison +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0038"> +Chapter XXXV. Declaration of Independence +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0039"> +Chapter XXXVI. Ayrsmoss +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0040"> +Chapter XXXVII. The Cameronians +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0041"> +Chapter XXXVIII. The Lone Star +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0042"> +Chapter XXXIX. An Extraordinary Service +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0043"> +Chapter XL. The Societies +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0044"> +Chapter XLI. The Daughters of the Covenant +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0045"> +Chapter XLII. Young Life Under Persecution +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0046"> +Chapter XLIII. The Covenanters' Bible +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0047"> +Chapter XLIV. The Scottish Seer +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0048"> +Chapter XLV. Scotland's Maiden Martyr +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0049"> +Chapter XLVI. The Eldership--A Wall of Defence +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0050"> +Chapter XLVII. A Home Desolated +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0051"> +Chapter XLVIII. Last, But Not Least +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0052"> +Chapter XLIX. The Shepherdless Flock +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0053"> +Chapter L. The Voice of the Martyrs' Blood +</a> +<br /><a href="#2H_4_0054"> +Chapter LI. The Old Blue Banner Yet +</a></p> +</td><td> + +<p><b>Illustrations</b></p> +<p class="toc"><a href="#image-0001"> +Modern Church of the Covenanters, Greenock. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0002"> +In the Highlands +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0003"> +The Old Banner +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0004"> +George Wishart. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0005"> +Knox Administering the Lord's Supper. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0006"> +Mary, Queen of Scots. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0007"> +King James Vi. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0008"> +Melville Before King James. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0009"> +Edinburgh Castle. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0010"> +Souvenirs of the Covenanters. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0011"> +Alexander Henderson. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0012"> +Jean Geddes Throwing Her Stool. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0013"> +Greyfriars' Church. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0014"> +Signing the Covenant. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0015"> +Archibald Johnston. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0016"> +Memorial Stone of Captain Paton. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0017"> +The Martyrs' Monument, Edinburgh. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0018"> +Rutherford in Prison. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0019"> +Westminster Assembly. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0020"> +King Charles I. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0021"> +Archbishop Sharp +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0022"> +King Charles II. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0023"> +Argyle's Daughter Pleading +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0024"> +James Guthrie. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0025"> +The Grassmarket. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0026"> +John Welch, Ejected from his Church +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0027"> +Preaching in the Mountains. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0028"> +The Covenanters' Communion. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0029"> +The Howie Home, Lochgoin. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0030"> +Gravestone at Rullion Green. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0031"> +Rutherford's Monument at Anwoth. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0032"> +Anniversary of a Conventicle. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0033"> +Battle of Drumclog. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0034"> +The Battle of Bothwell Bridge. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0035"> +Dunnottar Castle. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0036"> +Claverhouse. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0037"> +Monument at Ayrsmoss. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0038"> +Four Young Covenanters Discovered +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0039"> +Donald Cargill. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0040"> +Earlston Castle +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0041"> +St. Sebastian Church, Rotterdam, Holland. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0042"> +Consolation in Prison. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0043"> +Andrew Hislop's Martyrdom. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0044"> +Covenanters Bibles +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0045"> +Peden at Cameron's Grave. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0046"> +Choosing Death Rather Than Life +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0047"> +John Brown of Priesthill +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0048"> +A Widow's Sorrow +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0049"> +James Renwick. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0050"> +The Martyrdom of Renwick. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0051"> +The Burial. +</a> +<br /><a href="#image-0052"> +The Banner of the Covenant. +</a></p> +</td></tr></table> +<hr> + + +<a name="2H_4_0003"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + Sketches of the Covenanters +</h2> +<a name="2H_4_0004"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + I. +</h2> +<h3> + THE LAND OF THE COVENANTS. +</h3> +<p> + All history is interesting and much of it is inspiring. Scotland + furnishes a large measure of that quality of history, that awakens the + soul, and appeals to the faculties by which life is transfigured with + moral grandeur. +</p> +<p> + History yields its best results when we use our best powers in pursuing + its paths. Let the creative genius, a healthy imagination, be employed + restoring the scenes of former times, mingling with the people and + participating in their high endeavors; then will the quiet page of + history become a world of thrilling activity. In this manner let us here + endeavor to follow the chain of events which gave Scotland two + Reformations and a Revolution. Let us keep our horizon wide by + resuscitating the former generations and associating with the Covenanted + fathers, who, in their faithfulness to God and loyalty to Jesus Christ, + were like the burning bush, enswirled with fire but not consumed. +</p> +<p> + Scotland—the very name awakens fondest memories, revives holiest + scenes, makes dearest associations throb with life. Scotland—charming + in her romances of love, mighty in her struggles for freedom, pathetic + in her sufferings for Christ, and glorious in her oft-renewed covenant + with God—Scotland in many respects is incomparable among the nations. + The Covenanted Church of Scotland, coming up from the wilderness leaning + upon her Beloved in holy dependence and dauntless faith, while heaven + looks down with admiration—how beautiful, how instructive, how + inspiring! +</p> +<p> + Extending from the north boundary of England, Scotland thrusts her rocky + shores with rugged irregularity into the deep sea on three sides. Her + granite cliffs, resisting the ceaseless waves, teach her people the + lesson of constant vigilance and unconquerable courage. +</p> +<p> + In this country the summer days are long and delightful, the echoes of + good-night linger till the voice of good-morning may be heard. The days + almost touch each other, twilight scarcely leaves the sky. The winter + reverses the order, making the path of the sun short and, bringing it + down close to the hilltops. The storm loves the long night; the winds + rise and sift the treasures of hail and snow over mountain and meadow. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="230"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0002"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_2.jpg" width="228" height="350" alt="In the Highlands"> +<b>In the Highlands</b> +</center> +In visiting the places of deepest interest to Covenanters, the journey + in our day may be made with little fatigue and much comfort. This makes + the wanderings of the persecuted Covenanters to appear in pathetic + contrast which touches the heart with sadness. The scene presented here + is Loch Lubnaig nestling in the bosom of the highlands. The view is + charming, especially while the historic events are revived by a guide + like Rev John McDonald, B D, who is here seen in the motor car, + accompanied by Mrs McDonald and Mrs McFeeters. +</td></tr></table> +<!--IMAGE END--> +<p> + Scotland contains about 30,000 square miles and 4,000,000 souls. The + shores, especially the western and northern, are beautifully fringed + with narrow lochs and steep indentures of the sea, making the coast + picturesque beyond description. The surface is mostly mountainous and + rugged, presenting to the eye natural scenery, which for beauty and + magnificence can scarcely be surpassed. On the mountain side mists + suddenly form, dense as thunder-clouds and bright as snow-drifts. We + were one day pointed to a certain hill where, it is said, Peden was + hunted by dragoons, and found shelter in the heart of a mist-cloud, + which he called "the lap of God's cloak." In answer to prayer he thus + found safety in the secret place of the Most High; heaven seemed to + touch earth where he knelt upon the dripping grass. +</p> +<p> + These mountainous grounds furnish luxuriant pasture for numerous flocks + of sheep. Here is the shepherd's paradise, who, with his dog and crook, + keeps careful watch. While the brow of the mountain is white with mist, + its cheeks are often crimsoned with heather, and its breast verdant with + pasture. The associated colors are very grateful to the eye, while the + sublimity ennobles the heart. +</p> +<p> + Many picturesque lochs nestle among the hills, in whose placid waters is + mirrored the sky in the brilliant variations of day and night. Poets + and novelists have thrown a charm over these waters, and their shady + isles—and deep coves, relating the stories of love and the tragedies of + war. Castles, some in ruins, some in excellent preservation, dot the + country from sea to sea, crowning prominent hill tops, and grimly + telling of the era of savage strife and imperiled life. Splendid cities, + thrifty towns, and modest country homes are an index of the present + prosperous and peaceful conditions. The industry, intelligence, and + happiness of the people are everywhere apparent. Numerous churches, + schools, and colleges bear testimony to the high tide of Christian + civilization, which, through the labors and fidelity of the fathers, + have carried the present generation into enviable prominence. +</p> +<p> + The climate is pleasant and healthful. The asperity of winter is + softened by the ocean streams coming from the south; the heat of summer + is reduced by the high latitude and the mountains. Withal the Lord has + blessed this celebrated country with rare natural advantages for + producing an indomitable and resourceful race. Something in their + environment seems to have given the people more than ordinary qualities + of mind and heart. Through the centuries they listened to the deep music + of the sea, gazed upon the majesty of the mountains, meditated upon the + solitude of the moors, kept vigil over their flocks in the fields, + laboriously tilled the rugged soil; and grew solemn, vigorous, + magnanimous, and unconquerable; they became a distinguished people. +</p> +<p> + But above all this, God in the early ages gave them the Scriptures, and + the Truth made them free. From the dawn of the evangelization of + Scotland there has ever been a band, and sometimes a host, whose heart + God touched, whose lives He enswathed with the fire of zeal for Christ + and His royal rights. They grasped the meaning of the Word of God, heard + His voice calling them into the marvelous light, and lived in the + radiance of His dreadful presence. They stood upon the solid foundation + of the infallible Book, and grew solid as the rocks of granite in their + conviction of truth and right. How much of this Scotch granite is + apparent in the faith and firmness of the present generation? +</p> +<p> + The matchless inheritance we have received from our Covenanted + ancestors, an inheritance of truth, liberty, and high example, should be + more inspiring to us than nature's grandest scenery. Our eyes should be + open to the moral significance of present conditions. We should be alive + to the weighty obligations transmitted by the fathers to their children. + Filled with the spirit and power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and + enthusiastic in our work for God, we should throw our strength into the + service of our Lord Jesus, striving to bring all people into Covenant + with God. The Covenant relation is the normal state of human society. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Locate Scotland on the map. +</p> +<p> + 2. What is the size? What the population? +</p> +<p> + 3. Mention the main physical features. +</p> +<p> + 4. Give some characteristics of the people. +</p> +<p> + 5. What contributed much to their prominence in history? +</p> +<p> + 6. What moral inheritance did the Covenanted fathers leave their + children? +</p> +<p> + 7. What obligation comes with the inheritance? +</p> +<p> + 8. How should the obligation be met in our day? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0005"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + II. +</h2> +<h3> + THE BATTLEFIELD OF PRESBYTERIANISM.—A.D. 200. +</h3> +<p> + The beginning of Scotland's evangelization is pre-historic. The records + fail to give any satisfaction concerning the entrance of the Gospel into + that lovely land. The ruins of numerous altars of stone bear grim + testimony to the idolatrous worship practiced by the early inhabitants. + These are known in history as the Druids. They held their religious + meetings in groves, and evidently offered human sacrifices to their + gods. The oak was accounted by them a sacred tree, and the mistletoe, + when growing upon it, was worshiped. Thus the land of our forefathers, + in the far off ages, was without a ray of Gospel light. The people sat + in darkness, in the region and shadow of death. +</p> +<p> + In the first three centuries of the Christian era, the successive + persecutions at Rome drove many Christians out from that Gospel center, + to wander in all directions over the world. They suffered banishment for + Christ's sake. In their wanderings they became great missionaries. They + loved Jesus more than their lives, and their religion more than their + homes. By them the Gospel was carried to the ends of the earth. It + seems that some of them drifted into Scotland and brought to that land + the bright morning of a day that carried storms in its bosom, and after + the storms, peace, quietness, prosperity, Christian civilization—an + inheritance of light and liberty unparalleled in history. +</p> +<p> + As these witnesses of Jesus told the story of God's love and of Christ's + death, the Holy Spirit came down with power and wrought wondrously upon + the people. They readily believed the faithful saying, "Christ Jesus + came into the world to save sinners." +</p> +<p> + In the later centuries the Gospelized communities developed into an + organized Church, with doctrine, worship, and government based upon + God's Word. These primitive Christians were careful to preserve the + apostolic simplicity, purity, manner, and substance, of Divine service. + The Infallibility of the Bible, the Divinity of Christ, the Inspired + Psalmody, and the Presbyterian form of government, were fundamentals in + the faith of the Church of Scotland from her youth. She appears + exceedingly beautiful in her first love, coming up from the wilderness + with her right hand taking firm hold upon the Lord Jesus Christ, her + gracious Redeemer and mighty Protector. +</p> +<p> + The Church of Scotland was then known as the Church of the Culdees. They + had a flourishing Theological Seminary on the Isle of Iona. The ruins of + it still remain. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="400"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0003"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_3.jpg" width="374" height="350" +alt="The Old Banner"> +<b>The Old Banner</b> +</center> +This Old Banner is Yet to Be Seen at the Home of Mr. John +Howie of Lochgoin. It Has Its Own Unwritten History. As We Placed Our +Hands on the Precious Folds, The Heart Was Asking About The Brave +Standard-bearers Who Carried It in the Hard-fought Encounters, and The +Fearless Covenanters Who Followed It Unto Death. +</td></tr></table> +<!--IMAGE END--> + +<p> + Papal Rome however quickly scented this noble vine, with its rich, ripe + clusters of grapes. Embassies were sent to win these children of light + over to the Papacy. But they had tasted of the freedom and blessedness + in Christ and refused. A long sanguinary struggle ensued, which resulted + in the apparent suppression of the Protestant faith in the Twelfth + century. The ministers in general, under the severity of prolonged + persecution, surrendered their liberty and became servants of the Roman + pontiff. +</p> +<p> + Yet were there always some to resist the cruel conqueror. The excellent + of the earth are always to be found at their unpurchasable value, when + mankind is on the market selling cheap. These had the courage to + challenge popes and kings, who dared to assume the power or the + prerogatives of Jesus Christ. They believed that Christ was the Head of + the Church, and were willing to yield up their lives rather than their + convictions. The doctrine of Christ's supremacy was incarnated in these + worthies, and they became invincible in its defence. As the granite + rocks, beneath whose shelter they worshiped, withstood the blasts of + winter, so these insuppressible men withstood the storms of persecution. + The sovereignty of Christ over Church and nation was dearer to them than + life. They saw the glory of God involved in this fundamental truth, also + the honor of Jesus Christ, and the liberty, purity, and permanence of + the Church. They counted + the pre-eminence of the Lord Jesus Christ worthy of every sacrifice. + They suffered bonds and imprisonment, exile and slavery, torture and + death, for its sake. Their blood watered the moss of the moors and the + heather of the mountains. Thousands and tens of thousands of Scotland's + noblest sons and purest daughters gave their lives freely for the + contested doctrine of Christ's crown rights and royal supremacy. As + these valiant soldiers of the cross fell, their children arose, and, + grasping the banner of the Covenant crimsoned with the blood of their + fathers, carried it defiantly along the firing line of the fierce + battle. The dreadful conflict continued while century followed century. +</p> +<p> + Victory finally crowned the martyrs' cause, and peace spread her white + wings over the crimson field, which in our day yields a rich harvest of + happiness and prosperity. Out of that great struggle we have inherited + the civil and religious liberty, which to-day is the crowning glory of + Great Britain and America. +</p> +<p> + But the victories of our fathers were not final: they only placed us on + vantage ground to continue the struggle, until the whole world shall be + redeemed from every system of false religion and despotic power. Much + land yet remains to be possessed. Animated by their noble example and + encouraged by their success, we should press forward in the same cause, + for the glory of Christ and the salvation of souls. How can we + hesitate? Great obligations have descended from the fathers to us as + their successors; future generations are dependent on our faithfulness. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Describe the religion that prevailed in Scotland before the Gospel + was introduced. +</p> +<p> + 2. What is known concerning the beginning of the Church in this country? +</p> +<p> + 3. What was the success of the Gospel during the early centuries? +</p> +<p> + 4. What were the chief doctrines of the Church in those times? +</p> +<p> + 5. What foe attempted her suppression? +</p> +<p> + 6. Describe the resistance offered by the martyrs. +</p> +<p> + 7. What was the great doctrine around which the battle was waged? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0006"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + III. +</h2> +<h3> + SOME EARLY MARTYRS.—A.D. 1200. +</h3> +<p> + The Roman hierarchy, having gained a foothold on the shores of Scotland, + pushed hard for the ascendancy. At length the Papal religion prevailed. + The black wings of apostasy, as of an ominous bird, were stretched from + sea to sea. Dense darkness fell upon Scotland. The Thirteenth century + was the horrible midnight, during which the people slept helpless in the + grasp of a terrorizing nightmare. Kings combined with priests to crush + all who asserted their right to a free conscience in the worship of God. + The Bible was officially condemned and publicly burned; its perusal by + the people was accounted a crime worthy of death. Poor Scotland! how + ruinously overwhelmed beneath the briny waters of adversity. +</p> +<p> + The providences of God are mysterious. We become mystified and + distressed when we ask for reasons. God's circles are vast; we cannot + take in His horizon. We know however that all His works are done in + truth and righteousness. The wheels of Christ's chariot never move + backward. In getting over the rough places, progress may seem to be + reversed, yet this is an illusion. In every such case the mysterious + operation of providence is merely preparation for advancement. The great + work of redemption goes forward through all stages to perfection. The + storms that dash against the face of spring prevent not the coming of + summer with its abundant harvests and songs of joy. +</p> +<p> + The light of the Gospel seemed to have been quenched beneath the + seething tide of Papal corruption. Still there were incorruptible men + and women here and there, who devoutly worshiped God according to His + Word. Their hearthstone was their church. There may have been many in + those days deeply rooted in the faith, but for most part they remained + invisible. To be known as true to Christ imperiled life. Not many had + the courage to publish their convictions. Yet there were some who arose + in the majesty of redeemed manhood and confessed Jesus, testifying to + His truth in defiance of the powers of darkness. To them truth was + sweeter than life. +</p> +<p> + John Resby is on record as one among the first witnesses, who heralded a + glorious reformation for Scotland. He was a voice crying in the + wilderness, proclaiming the sovereignty of Christ over the Church and + denouncing the pope who claimed to be the representative of the Lord + Jesus. He was quickly silenced by death at the stake. This occurred in + 1407 The spirit of religious liberty was thereby crushed and + disappeared for twenty-five years. +</p> +<p> + Paul Craw was the next to be lifted into prominence by the power of the + Gospel, and thrust into publicity by the courage of his convictions. The + Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him. His love for the truth of the + Gospel filled him with abhorrence of Roman errors; his pity for souls + carried him into the fight for their freedom. He testified boldly + against Papal idolatry, prayer to saints, and the confessional. For this + he was sentenced to suffer in the flames. His martyrdom took place in + 1432. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="300"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0004"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_4.jpg" width="291" height="350" +alt="George Wishart."> +<b>George Wishart.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +George Wishart was a burning and shining light in darkest times. His + pure and vigorous life was lifted up into the presence of God and + devoted to the glory of Jesus Christ and the emancipation of souls from + the bondage of Satan, through the preaching of the Gospel. He finished + his work, a great work, while he was yet a young man. His enemies burned + him at the stake, in 1546, for his faith in Jesus Christ. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Patrick Hamilton was another distinguished hero in this age of darkness. + Nearly a century had passed between the last mentioned martyr and this. + Doubtless lesser lights had appeared, for the record cannot possibly be + complete. Winter snows and summer showers often fell on smoking embers, + where the charred bones and precious names of martyrs are now forgotten, + and the annual sward of green conceals the sacred grounds from the + knowledge of man. Hamilton was a young man of education and refinement + having fairest worldly prospects. However, the Lord showed him "the way, + the truth, and the life," and his soul was fired with the love of God. + He counted all things but "loss for the excellency of the knowledge of + Christ." His enthusiasm carried him boldly into controversy with the + enemies of his Lord, and won for him the honors of a noble martyr. As + the flames leaped around him at the stake, his voice rose calm and clear + on the crisp winter air, exclaiming, "How long, O Lord, shall darkness + cover this realm? How long wilt thou suffer this tyranny of man?" This + man was sacrificed in 1528. +</p> +<p> + The light was rising; spring-time was coming, the early rain of God's + grace was falling upon Scotland. Godly lives now sprang up thick as + flowers in the meadow. They must be uprooted in bunches, thought the + Romanists, or the people, gaining light, will cast off the Papal + religion and be free to worship God according to His Word. During the + next few years many were condemned and executed for their faith. +</p> +<p> + Helen Stark deserves honorable mention. She and her husband were + sentenced to death for their fidelity to Jesus. She begged for the poor + consolation of dying with her husband, pleading that the flames that + would consume his flesh might also consume hers. The privilege was + denied. She stood by him while the fire did its work, and the chariot of + flame bore his soul to heaven. She encouraged him to endure bravely and + glorify God. When life had departed from his quivering body, she was + pushed aside and hastened to a pond of deep water. Withdrawing a babe + from her warm breast where it would never again rest, she gave it to a + woman near by, resigning it to the loving Father of orphans. She was + then +</p> +<p> + plunged into the water where death quickly ended her sorrows. This + martyrdom was in 1543. +</p> +<p> + George Wishart arose at this time in the spirit and majesty of the Lord + Jesus Christ, and displayed the banner of truth with an invincible + faith. His heart was true, pure, fresh, and fragrant as the heart of a + rosebud, through the indwelling Spirit of God. His life was wonderfully + attractive. His eloquence was seraphic; his lips had been touched with a + live coal from the altar of God; his soul was aflame with the Gospel. He + was animated with transfiguring revelations of Christ and His redeeming + truth. He was a burning and shining light. The light he shed was too + bright to last long in those dangerous times. The cardinal, prelates, + and priests consulted for his overthrow. He fell suddenly into their + hands and his death was decreed. To the stake he was hurried where the + flames once more did their work, and another faithful soul appeared + before the Throne, washed in the blood of the Lamb, and arrayed in a + white robe, rejoicing in the victory won through Jesus Christ. At the + stake his executioner begged forgiveness. Wishart kissed his cheek, + saying, "Go, here is a token that I forgive thee; do thine office." One + standing near said to him, "Be of good courage." He replied, "This fire + torments my body, but in no way abates my spirit." This execution was in + 1546. +</p> +<p> + The success of life is not measured by the years we live, but by + loyalty to Jesus Christ and service in the Gospel; the might of our + faith, the healthiness of the soul, the greatness of the heart, and the + intensity of the light shining from a character radiant with the + presence and glory of Jesus Christ. +</p> +<p> + Are we every day trying to make our lives rich, radiant, successful, and + certain of reward, through earnest effort to bring others into the + possession of the blessings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What was Scotland's condition when over-ridden by the Roman religion? +</p> +<p> + 2. How was the true Church kept alive? +</p> +<p> + 3. Describe the sufferings endured by the witnesses of Jesus. +</p> +<p> + 4. Give the death scene of John Resby, Paul Craw, Patrick Hamilton, + Helen Stark, George Wishart. +</p> +<p> + 5. How may the study of the martyrs' lives purify, strengthen, and + ennoble our lives? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0007"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + IV. +</h2> +<h3> + KNOX IN THE FIELD OF CONFLICT.—A.D. 1547. +</h3> +<p> + "The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church." This crimson adage + is a striking truth. "If ye burn any more," quaintly said one who had + observed the effects of the martyrdom of Wishart on the public mind, + "burn them in your cellar, for the smoke infects all upon whom it is + blown." +</p> +<p> + John Knox was then a young man preparing for service in the priesthood + of Rome. He had met Wishart and felt the glow of his warm heart and the + power of his inspiring fellowship. He was a man of eminent natural + abilities to which was added a liberal education. He was recognized as + one who would be a mighty champion on whatever side he took his stand. + God was rich in mercy to Scotland when He caused the Gospel to shine + into the heart of Knox, giving him "the light of the knowledge of the + glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." His towering intellect, + through the study of the Word of God, caught the morning glory of the + Reformation, like a mountain that catches the first rays of the rising + sun. He broke all the bonds that bound him to Papacy, and entered into + the liberty of the children of God in the power of the Holy Spirit. +</p> +<p> + When Knox received his first call to become a pastor, he was overwhelmed + with anxiety at the awful responsibility of preaching the Gospel. He + stood in amazement, but dared not refuse. His humility and + self-abasement prepared him, through the grace of the Lord Jesus, for + heights of power and honor seldom reached by ministers. From that + crucial day he devoted all the energies of body and soul to the + preaching of the Word of God. His public services covered a quarter of a + century. +</p> +<p> + This mighty man of valor threw himself immediately into the thickest of + the fight against Romanism. He struck at the root of the evil. Instead + of skirmishing along the borders about rituals, ceremonies, and + perversion of doctrines, he boldly challenged the Papal system as + Antichrist, and the Pope as "The man of sin." In his estimation the + Romish Church was a fallen Church and had become "The Synagogue of + Satan." He entered the field of conflict clad in the armor of God and + wielded the sword of the Spirit with precision and terrible effect. In + prayer lay the secret of his power. He knew how to take hold upon God, + and prevail like a prince. The Queen Regent, who in those times mustered + the forces of the government at her pleasure, said, "I am more afraid of + the prayers of John Knox than of any army of ten thousand men." +</p> +<p> + The very name of Knox was enough to strike terror into the hearts of his + enemies. On one occasion, having been in Geneva for a time, he returned + unexpectedly. Just then a number of the Reformed ministers, who had been + arrested for preaching against Popery, were approaching their trial. The + court had assembled and were attending to the preliminaries. Suddenly a + messenger rushed into the hall of justice, breathless with haste, + exclaiming, "John Knox! John Knox is come! he slept last night in + Edinburgh!" The court was stunned and immediately adjourned. +</p> +<p> + The life of Knox was often in danger. Once as he sat in his room reading + by candle light a shot was fired at him from the street through the + window. It went harmlessly past him and struck his candle. +</p> +<p> + He received a request on a certain occasion to preach in a city that was + a stronghold of Romanism. He accepted, glad of the opportunity, knowing + also the peril. The archbishop of the city, having an army at his + bidding, sent Knox a warning, saying, that if he preached, the soldiers + would receive orders to fire upon him. His friends urged him not to go. + He replied, "As for the fear of danger that may come to me let no man be + solicitous, for my life is in the custody of Him whose glory I seek. I + desire the hand and weapon of no man to defend me. I only crave + audience, which, if it be denied here unto me at this time, I must seek + farther where I may have it." He went and preached and returned + unharmed. His great courage infused itself into other hearts, and a + multitude of invincible men stood forth with him in the struggle for + liberty and conscience, which he so fearlessly advocated. Every sublime + life is a mighty power for the uplifting of others into the same region + of healthy action. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="405"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0005"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_5.jpg" width="404" height="350" +alt="Knox Administering the Lord's Supper."> +<b>Knox Administering the Lord's Supper.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +John Knox led the Church in the great struggle for pure doctrine and + worship. The vain heart of man is ever inventing additions and + variations in the services of God's house. Many devices had been thrust + upon the early Church of Scotland. Here we see this servant of Christ, + in the administration of the Lord's Supper, giving the people the bread + and the cup as Jesus directed. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The throne of Scotland, with its machinery of government, was against + Knox all his days. Queen Mary was determined to keep the people in + subjection to her own arbitrary will, and the Church subject to her + authority. Knox had several personal interviews with her, taking + occasion at the risk of his life to speak candidly and solemnly, + applying the Word of God to her life and conscience. At one time, + remonstrating against her persecuting rage, he said to her, "Even so, + Madam, if those who are in authority, being stricken with a frenzy, will + murder the children of God, who are their own subjects, the sword may be + taken from them, and they may be imprisoned till they be brought to a + sober mind." The queen was much amazed and her face changed color, but + she was powerless to do him harm. +</p> +<p> + During the lifetime of Knox, the Church of the Reformation grew rapidly + and became mighty in numbers and influence. The first General Assembly was held in 1560, + having 6 ministers and 32 other members, 38 in all. In 1567, just seven + years later, the Assembly numbered 252 ministers, 467 readers, and 154 + exhorters. This, too, was in a time of distress the conditions were + unfavorable, the opposition was very strong. How account for the + success? "Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord." +</p> +<p> + The Church contended for the supremacy of the Lord Jesus Christ, even + unto death. +</p> +<p> + The Church pursued unswervingly the course marked out for her in the + Word of God, in doctrine, worship, and discipline, not troubled at the + cost nor fearing results. +</p> +<p> + The Church refused to be guided by human wisdom or temporizing methods, + either to win numbers or gain favor, depending for success upon the + wisdom that cometh from above. +</p> +<p> + The Church sought to glorify God with simplicity of faith, holiness of + life, purity of worship, and loyalty to the Lord Jesus Christ. Hence the + invincible energy, the wonderful achievements, the magnificent + victories, and the amazing increase. Would not the Church of Christ take + on like activities, proportions, and strength, by following the same + course of fidelity in our own times? +</p> +<p> + John Knox died in 1572, at the age of 67. His last words were, "Come, + Lord Jesus, sweet Jesus; receive my spirit." His latter end was peace. +</p> +<p> + Will we strive to emulate Knox in prayer, courage, self-denial, and + pure-heartedness? Will not his example be to us an inspiration to work + with faith and might, to build up the Church and enlarge the Kingdom of + Christ? He was great because he was humble and trusted in the Lord. The + same way is still open to all who would do great things for God. + Humility, prayer, faith, activity, courage, honor, glory—these are the + successive steps upward. There is yet room in the high places. Knox's + place seems to be vacant. Who will fill it? What an opportunity for + young men to bring their noblest powers into action! +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What great reformer appeared at this stage of the conflict? +</p> +<p> + 2. What was the attitude of Knox toward Romanism? +</p> +<p> + 3. How was his power dreaded by his enemies? +</p> +<p> + 4. What was his demeanor in danger? +</p> +<p> + 5. Describe his interviews with the rulers. +</p> +<p> + 6. Tell how the Church prospered during his ministry; explain the cause. +</p> +<p> + 7. What effect should such a life have on us as we study it? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0008"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + V. +</h2> +<h3> + FOUNDATION STONES.—A.D. 1550. +</h3> +<p> + During the first half of the Sixteenth century the Church struggled + strenuously for a more complete organization. The Word of God was + quietly circulated and believers in Jesus Christ were growing numerous. + But hitherto they had to worship God at their own fireside or burn at + the stake. In the humble cottage, while the raging storm kept spies + away, the father read from the Book of God to his children as they + huddled around the turf fire, and the mother sang Psalms to the little + ones as she knit their stockings or baked the oaten bread. Thus pious + parents instilled into their sons and daughters the truth of Christ + which stirred their blood, and prepared a generation to emerge from the + bondage of Papacy. +</p> +<center> + THE FIRST COVENANT—1557. +</center> +<p> + During these times the Church was found chiefly in groups of Christians + who met secretly for prayer. A company of devout believers came + together to spend the evening hours, or the Sabbath day, in the worship + of God. The meeting was called a Society. In these places prayer was + offered in faith, the Psalms were sung with grave melody, and the Bible + was read with reverence. These hungry souls fed upon the Word. Sometimes + the meetings were held in caves for fear of the enemy. Once a minister, + being pursued, entered one of these caves for safety. As he sat down in + its shelter, he was surprised at hearing soft melody farther back in + that dark retreat. Following the sound of the voices he found a company + of devout worshipers. +</p> +<p> + In those troublous times the Holy Spirit, in His own mysterious way, + electrified the hearts of these hidden ones with the thought of + Covenanting with each other and with God, to stand for life, liberty, + and religion. A day was set and a place appointed for entering into the + holy bond. Notwithstanding the danger incurred, a large concourse of + people assembled and solemnly entered into the Covenant. This occurred + in the city of Edinburgh, December 3, 1557. This Covenant embodied their + purpose, thus, "We by His grace, shall, with all diligence, continually + apply our whole power, substance, and our very lives, to maintain, set + forward, and establish the most blessed Word of God and His Church." + This is known as The First Covenant of Scotland. Two years later, + another bond of agreement was subscribed, on behalf of the Church, by + her most prominent leaders, which was called The Second Covenant. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="325"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0006"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_6.jpg" width="322" height="350" +alt="Mary, Queen of Scots."> +<b>Mary, Queen of Scots.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Mary, Queen of Scots, came to the throne young, beautiful, aspiring, and + unscrupulous. She selected for her counselors, those who were devoted to + the Papal religion. She employed the government, the army, and the + French forces, to suppress the Reformers. The tide of power was against + her. She lost her throne and kingdom, and fled the country. She was + finally beheaded in London. +</td></tr></table> +<center> + THE FIRST GENERAL ASSEMBLY—1560. +</center> +<p> + The First Covenant was a formidable bulwark of defence against Papacy. + The young Protestant Church found in it a strong tower. The battle grew + fiercer. Many of the nobles joined the Covenanted ranks. Two years later + this Covenant was renewed and the cause gained great strength. Among + other leaders Lord James Stuart, the queen's brother, subscribed. He was + a daring defender of the Reformed faith. He stood as a wall of adamant + between the Reformation and his sister, Mary, Queen of Scots, who + employed the government and army to destroy it. After her overthrow he + became regent, ruling the nation with kingly power and extraordinary + ability, having the fear of God and the welfare of the people at heart. + His home was like a sanctuary; the fire burned on the family altar, the + Bible was read at the table, the beauty of holiness graced the + household. In history he is known as Lord Murray, the "Good Regent." He + was assassinated by an ingrate, whom he had pardoned and saved from + execution. Much credit for the First Reformation must be given to Murray + in the State and Knox in the Church, each peerless in his place. In + their day the Church became an organized power and assumed the + appearance of "an army with banners." The First General Assembly met in + Edinburgh, December 20, 1560. The purpose was, "To consult upon those + things which are to forward God's glory and the well-being of His Kirk." + The glory of God! the honor of Christ! the exaltation of the supreme + Name! that is the purpose that sends fire through the veins and sweeps + the soul with holy flames. Give this its true place, and the best work + of life will be done. Then did the Church arise and shine in the glory + of the Lord. Then did she develop in size, strength, and courage, as in + the days of the apostles. Seven years later when the General Assembly + met, the members numbered 773, with a prosperous Church of proportionate + size. The Reformers entered into the work of the Lord with heartiness + and reaped a plentiful harvest. +</p> +<center> + THE FIRST BOOK OF DISCIPLINE—1561. +</center> +<p> + The high principles governing the First General Assembly are seen in the + effort to preserve the purity of the young Church, springing up under + the care of these "valiant men of Israel." One of the first steps taken + was the appointment of a committee to prepare a Book of Discipline. + These devout men copied from no existing form of Church government. They + did not draw even upon Holland or Geneva for resources. They went + directly to the Word of God, as the fountain of all knowledge for the + task on hand. They took counsel and instruction from God in prayer, + placed mind and heart under the guiding power of the Holy Spirit. The + book that came forth was such as we would expect at the hands of such + men, working with such spirit and purpose. Its statements were truth; + its rules were wisdom; its censures were a sword; its authority was + Christ. The General Assembly adopted it. However, it was not in favor + with all. Its standard of doctrine and discipline was too high to please + some. Knox gives the reason: "Everything that impugned their corrupt + affections was mockingly termed 'devout imaginations.' The cause was, + some were licentious, some had greedily gripped the possessions of the + Church, and others thought they would not lack their part of Christ's + coat." Discipline was applied to the Church according to the book. The + unworthy were suspended, and those who failed to measure up to the + standard of knowledge, character, and spiritual life, were refused. + Could there be a clearer demonstration of the power of the Holy Spirit + and the presence of Jesus Christ, than the discipline that removed the + unworthy and refused the unfit, when the Church was so weak in number + and assailed by hordes of enemies? Yet during the first seven years of + this Book of Discipline, the General Assembly grew from 6 to 252 + ministers, and the Church in the same marvelous proportion. Behold + God's seal placed on strict discipline. There is power in purity; + vitality depends much on sanitation. +</p> +<center> + THE FIRST SCHOOLS—1561. +</center> +<p> + The Public School system is the offspring of Protestantism. The human + mind, when liberated by the Gospel of Jesus Christ, aspires after + education, as the eagle soars into the upper air when set free from its + cage. Freedom in Christ Jesus awakens consciousness of rights, powers, + privileges, obligations, and the immeasurable boundaries of mind and + spirit. With such breathings and aspirations these Presbyterian fathers + planted free schools over their country and set the example for the + world. The General Assembly authorized a school for every "parish", and + made attendance imperative. The children of the poor were instructed + free, the rich contributed support. The studies covered "religion, + grammar, and Latin." Also in every "notable town, a college was to be + erected for instruction in logic, rhetoric, and the learned languages." + Such was the work of the General Assembly in the year of our Lord 1561. + Our system of Public Schools is but the extension of the orchard these + fathers planted, in their far-reaching plans and great-hearted purposes. +</p> +<p> + Such were some of the steps taken by the fathers, in the Church of + Scotland, at the dawn of the First Reformation. They were master + builders in laying foundation stones. They were preparing for the + onward movement, which gave to the world the most brilliant example of + Church and State in Covenant with God. The like has not been witnessed + since the days of Jesus of Nazareth. These beginnings were the stately + steppings of God within His sanctuary. The Lord raised up men after His + own heart, and empowered them by the Holy Spirit to perform this + stupendous task. They were men of like passions with others, yet + possessing the rare quality of an inviolate conscience. They were + governed by principle, not expediency; were guided by truthfulness, not + diplomacy; consulted God's law, not convenience; accepted duty at God's + command, not at man's dictate. Not all who were enrolled in the Church + stood the test; some grew faint and fell back from the firing line. But + enough were ever there to glorify God and do His service at any cost. + Scotland's First Reformation reached its climax in 1567. +</p> +<p> + The diligence and success of the fathers in the Lord's work should + inspire us to do the best within our power for the enlargement of the + Church. Are we building, as they built, upon the true foundation, which + is Jesus Christ? Is our building material like theirs—gold, silver, and + precious stones? Are we zealous in making the Church of Christ appear + the glorious Temple of truth, the Sanctuary of the living God, the + Habitation of the Holy Spirit? Are we so consumed with the holy passion + of love, that we cannot rest till we bring others into the house of God? + Are we worthy of our relation to the Covenanted fathers? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Give an account of the First Covenant. +</p> +<p> + 2. Describe the First General Assembly. +</p> +<p> + 3. What was the value of the First Book of Discipline? +</p> +<p> + 4. Describe the founding of Public Schools in Scotland. +</p> +<p> + 5. When was the First Reformation at its climax? +</p> +<p> + 6. How should the success of the fathers inspire us? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0009"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + VI. +</h2> +<h3> + SCOTLAND'S NATIONAL COVENANT.—A.D. 1581. +</h3> +<p> + During the sixties of the Sixteenth century, the Presbyterian Church had + her beautiful summer. The winter seemed to be past and the storms over + and gone; the time of the singing of birds had come. +</p> +<p> + Hitherto the Church had been as a lily among thorns: now instead of + thorns were fir trees, and instead of briers, myrtle trees, to the glory + of the Lord, who is wonderful in counsel and excellent in working. +</p> +<p> + Among the matchless sayings of Jesus, one specific word resounds through + all the ages and falls upon listening ears like thunder from heaven: + "WATCH". Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty, the price of purity, + the price of honor, the price of every thing worth having. The young + Church, vigorous, victorious, and enthusiastic, seems to have been off + her guard at a critical moment and while she slept the enemy sowed tares + among the wheat. +</p> +<p> + The regent, the person who was acting as king while the coming king was + a child, called a convention of ministers and others who favored the + king's supremacy over the Church. The convention at his dictation + introduced Prelacy. This occurred on January 12, 1572, a dark day for + Scotland. +</p> +<p> + Prelacy is little else than Popery modified; Popery in another dress, + trained and taught to speak a softer dialect. The power of Popery had + been broken, but the residuum still remained, and now there appeared + "the strange heterogeneous compound of Popery, Prelacy, and + Presbyterianism" in the Church. +</p> +<p> + The Church awoke to find herself in the grasp of a horrible octopus, + from which she did not escape for three generations, and only then at + the loss of much precious blood. +</p> +<p> + The first effort of the Church, when awakened to her real condition, was + to control the bishops that had come into her ministry, and whom she was + powerless to remove. The next step was to attempt their removal, on the + ground that the office of the bishop was unscriptural. Difficulties + rapidly increased; opposing forces were daily growing stronger; the + Civil government was against the Church; the regent, Scotland's chief + ruler, bent all his energies in the defence of the bishops. From whence + shall light and deliverance now come? Listen to the words that seem to + be on ten thousand lips: "The Covenants; the Covenants shall be + Scotland's reviving!" "The Covenants" now became the watchword of the + faithful. A wave of hopefulness and enthusiasm spread over the Church; + gladness wreathed the faces that had gathered blackness, and strength + throbbed in hearts that were faint. +</p> +<p> + The General Assembly, given strength from the Lord for the occasion, + adopted a form of Covenant for the nation. The Covenant, as written by + Rev. John Craig, was the product of a cultured brain and pious heart. It + is unsurpassed in clear diction, high purpose, majestic spirit, heroic + decision, and solemn appeal to God. It became the ground-work of all + Scotland's subsequent Covenants. +</p> +<p> + But Craig had to meet the test of faith required by his own Covenant. + King James VI., who was now on the throne, after subscribing the bond, + repudiated it, and commanded its author to do the same. Craig replied + that he would never repudiate anything approved by the Word of God. The + Court, in which he was on trial, ordered his head to be shaved, and + other indignities to be done to his person. +</p> +<p> + Again when on trial he was treated with utmost contempt by his judge, to + whom he said, "There have been as great men set up higher than thou, + that have been brought low." The judge, mockingly, sat down at his feet, + saying, "Now I am humbled." "Nay," said Craig, "mock God's servants as + thou wilt, God will not be mocked, but shall make thee find it in + earnest, when thou shalt be cast down from the high horse of thy + pride." A few years later he was thrown from his horse and killed. +</p> +<p> + The fervor aroused by the Covenant swept the Church like a Pentecostal + fire, and spread over all the kingdom as a storm of holy excitement. The + Covenant bond, being signed by the king, the nobles, and a great + multitude of people, was called, The First National Covenant of + Scotland. +</p> +<p> + No greater event had ever stirred the kingdom, no deeper joy had lighted + up her coasts, no higher honor had exalted her people, no brighter glory + had overspread her mountains and moors. That holy Covenant had lifted + her into relationship with God; the kingdom had become Hephzibah, and + the land, Beulah; the nation was married to the Lord. +</p> +<p> + The Covenant bound the Covenanter, the Church, the nation, and + posterity, under a solemn oath,— +</p> +<p> + To adhere to the Reformed religion with all the heart through all time + to come; +</p> +<p> + To labor with all lawful means to recover the purity and liberty of the + Gospel, by removing all human innovations from the Church; +</p> +<p> + To abhor and detest the corrupt doctrines and practices of Romanism; +</p> +<p> + To resist under the oath of God all the evils and corruptions contrary + to the Reformed religion; +</p> +<p> + To defend the country and support the government, while country and + government defend and preserve true religion; +</p> +<p> + To stand in mutual defence of one another in maintaining the Gospel and + the Reformed Church; +</p> +<p> + To permit nothing to divide the Covenanted ranks, or diminish their + power, or swerve them from their high purpose; +</p> +<p> + To become good examples of Godliness, soberness, and righteousness in + the performance of every duty due to God and man; +</p> +<p> + To fear none of the foul aspersions that may be cast upon this Covenant, + seeing it is warranted by the Word of God, and is for the maintenance of + His Church; +</p> +<p> + To recognize the LIVING GOD as the Searcher of hearts, and Jesus Christ + as the Judge, before whom all shall stand in judgment. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="340"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0007"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_7.jpg" width="337" height="350" +alt="King James VI."> +<b>King James VI.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +King James VI. came to the throne of Scotland in 1578, and reigned till + 1625. He was crowned when a boy of 12 years. He subscribed the National + Covenant, saying, "I praise the Lord that I am king in such a Kirk, the + sincerest Kirk in the world." He soon forsook the "Kirk"—the Covenanted + Church—and became a violent persecutor. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Such was the high range of thought, motive, purpose, and action reached + by this Covenant of the fathers, who called upon God in the day of + trouble, and were heard in that they feared. The men who led in this + solemn transaction were distinguished for learning, piety, high-souled + purpose, devotion to their country, and zeal for the glory of Christ. + They were among the excellent of the earth. But the mighty current of + religious enthusiasm that had set in drew to itself, and carried on its + bosom, multitudes who were superficial and vacillating. These quickly + fell away when the counter current set forward; some of them even became + violent persecutors of the Covenanters. +</p> +<p> + The king was among the first to vitiate his oath, and break the + Covenant. His weakness was pitiful; he seemed to turn with every gale + that struck him. The next year he mustered the strength of his + government to overthrow the Presbyterian Church, and reverse the + workings of the Covenant. The Church was aroused and resolute, Andrew + Melville being her recognized leader. A delegation was sent to the king + to remonstrate; Melville was the spokesman. The king was confronted like + a lion in his den. He listened to the following message: "Your majesty, + by device of some counselors, is caused to take upon you a spiritual + power and authority, which properly belongs unto Christ, as the only + King and Head of the Church. Through your highness, some men are trying + to erect a new Popedom, as though your majesty could not be king and + head of this commonwealth, unless the spiritual sword, as well as the + temporal, be put into your hands; unless Christ be bereft of His + authority, and the two jurisdictions which God separated be confounded. + All this tends to the wreck of true religion." +</p> +<p> + Melville sent the truth, like a lancet, into the inflated ambition of + the young king. He winced in the agony of the keen surgery. But Melville + had to meet the consequences of his faithfulness. He was taken to the + tower of London, where he lay in a dismal cell four years. He was + afterward banished and died in a strange land. +</p> +<p> + This Covenant of 1851 placed posterity, equally with the Covenanters of + that day, in oath-bound relation to God. A Public Covenant with God + continues in its moral obligation until its terms are fulfilled. Are we + lifting up our lives into relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ + through our inherited Covenant? Are we fulfilling our sworn duties to + our country, our Church, and our Lord? Are we using all lawful means to + cause true religion to prevail? Are we employing our strength against + all opposing evils? Are we keeping step in the Covenanted ranks that are + marching on, assured that the principles of the Reformation will yet + prevail in every land? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What was the condition of the Presbyterian Church during 1560-1570? +</p> +<p> + 2. How did the Church thereafter decline? +</p> +<p> + 3. To what did the Church resort for her reviving? +</p> +<p> + 4. What effect had the Covenant on the Church? +</p> +<p> + 5. Mention some of the main points in the Covenant. +</p> +<p> + 6. How did the king regard the Covenant? +</p> +<p> + 7. How was his opposition resisted by the Covenanters? +</p> +<p> + 8. In what way do the former Covenants bind the present generation? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0010"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + VII. +</h2> +<h3> + CONTENDING WITH THE KING—A.D. 1582. +</h3> +<p> + The Covenanted Church flourished under the care of the General Assembly + like a well-watered garden. The small band of ministers and elders, who + had organized the Assembly, were richly blest in their labors. They had + assembled at the risk of their lives to give the supremacy of Jesus + Christ its loudest utterance, and the unity of the Church its grandest + expression; and the signal favor of God was their reward. The first ten + years of the General Assembly were the halcyon days of the Presbyterian + Church of Scotland. Under the showers of the Holy Spirit, pious people + sprang up "as among the grass, as willows by the water-courses." The + power of the Papacy was broken and its horrors checked. +</p> +<p> + The clear sky, however, soon gathered blackness. The first cloud was, in + size, and in cunning, too, as a man's hand. The national government had + condemned Popery as a religion, and had confiscated the vast wealth + which the priesthood had amassed and had long enjoyed. This immense + property, including rich revenues, large buildings, broad fields, and + annual harvests, was held for distribution. How shall it be distributed? + That was the burning question of the day, and it started a conflagration + in the Church, that kindled many a fire at the stake. The Civil court + decided that one-sixth should be given to the Church. The Church + accepted the allowance. It was a sweet morsel in her mouth; but bitter, + oh, how bitter in her bowels! +</p> +<p> + Regent Morton held the reins of government at that time. That cunning + ruler in bestowing this gift expected large returns. If the Church get + gold at his hand, she must make concessions on his demand. From that day + the Covenanted Church was in trouble. She was compelled to keep up a + constant warfare for her heaven-given independence, a bitter fight at + the cost of much blood for the right of self-government under her Lord. + The Bride of the Son of God had linked arms with an earthly suitor, and + leaned on him for support, to her shame and sorrow. The Church of + Christ, free-born and independent, endued with divine power, enriched + with the indwelling Spirit, and sufficiently resourceful for all + conditions and obligations, now depended on the State for financial + help. The mistake grew more evident, and its correction more difficult, + as time rolled on. +</p> +<p> + The sovereignty of Jesus Christ is one of the cardinal doctrines of + Presbyterianism. Christ in this form of Church government is glorified + as Lord over all, and blessed forever. Enthroned on the right hand of + the Majesty on high, He rules over a dominion whose limits include the + utmost bounds of creation. On earth He has organized the Church, of + which He is the only Head and King. He has also established the State, + of which He is both King and Judge. The Church and State under Jesus + Christ are mutually independent; each should be cordial and co-operative + with the other; both are directly accountable to the Lord Jesus Christ. +</p> +<p> + Morton saw his opportunity when the Church took the money. In those days + the ruler of Scotland insisted on being recognized as the head of the + Church. Morton put forth his claim of control; the faithful ministers of + Christ resisted. Since the reign of Henry VIII., the Episcopal Church + has acknowledged the reigning sovereign as supreme in her government. In + this position the ruler can use the Church as an arm of his government, + a handmaid in his administration, an instrument in carrying out his + designs, an ally in supporting whatsoever may originate in his heart. +</p> +<p> + Morton attempted to introduce Episcopacy into the General Assembly. Even + there he found some ready to do his bidding; and thus began the long + controversy between Presbyterianism and Episcopacy. The struggle of + Protestantism with Romanism had well-nigh disappeared; the fight was now + between the Presbyterian and the Episcopalian. +</p> +<p> + Morton's leaven quickly did its work; the Assembly became deeply + infected. For more than an hundred years the terrible struggle + continued. In the early years of this fierce conflict, Andrew Melville, + mighty in the power of Jesus, stood in the forefront of the battle. + Melville was scholarly, intrepid, adventurous, highly emotional, and + vehement in the cause of the Church's independence. He had some sharp + encounters with Morton. Morton in a rage said to him one day, "The + country will never be in quietness till half a dozen of you be hanged or + banished." Melville, looking him in the face with his piercing eyes, + replied, "Tush, man, threaten your courtiers after that manner. It is + the same to me whether I rot in the air or in the ground. The earth is + the Lord's. My country is wherever goodness is. Let God be glorified, it + will not be in your power to hang or exile His truth." Morton felt + himself outdared and outdone by the courage and calmness of this humble + servant of Christ. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="500"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0008"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_8.jpg" width="492" height="350" +alt="Melville Before King James."> +<b>Melville Before King James.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Andrew Melville was able to stand before the king because he habitually + stood before God. He was wise and strong to give advice and warning in + the name of Christ to the sovereign of the nation, because he took his + orders from Jesus Christ, the KING OF KINGS and LORD OF LORDS. He was + banished for his faithfulness, and died in France, in 1622, being 77 + years old. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Morton resigned the regency in 1578, to make way for James VI. to ascend + the throne, who continued the war against the Presbyterians. He asserted + that his crown depended on the office of the bishop. "No bishop, no + king," was his motto. He aspired to + become dictator to the Church. The General Assembly resisted his claim. + A delegation was sent to the king with a strong remonstrance against his + tyrannic course. Melville was a member of the delegation, and his + energetic spirit constituted him speaker. The delegation appeared in the + royal court where the king sat among his advisers. The remonstrance was + read; it filled the king with rage. "Who dare subscribe this treasonable + paper?" was asked. "We dare," replied Melville, taking hold of the pen + and calmly writing his name. The others followed the bold example. The + king and his company were overawed by their holy bravery. +</p> +<p> + At another time Melville became so animated in his remonstrance against + the despotic monarch, that he took hold of his arm, and gave him an + admonition such as few kings have ever heard. His passionate eloquence + flowed in a torrent: "I must tell you, Sir, there are two kings, and two + kingdoms in Scotland. There is King James VI., head of the commonwealth; + and there is Christ Jesus, the King of the Church, whose subject King + James is, and of whose kingdom he is not a king, nor a lord, nor a head, + but a member. Sir, when you were in your swaddling clothes, Christ Jesus + reigned freely in this land, in spite of all his enemies." The words + penetrated the guilty soul like flashes from the eye of God. For the + time the men had exchanged places; Melville was king. +</p> +<p> + Melville suffered for his faithfulness; he was banished. Yet he was + rewarded with a green old age and a triumphant death. At the age of + sixty-eight he wrote from the land of his exile, "I thank God, I eat, I + drink, I sleep, as well as I did thirty years bygone, and better than + when I was young. My heart is yet a Scotch heart, and as good, or better + than ever, both toward God and man. The Lord only be praised for this, + to whom belongs all glory." He died in France in 1622. +</p> +<p> + The supremacy of Christ is the glory of the Church. Jesus is the + Fountain-Head of life, love, law, government, and authority. Are we + maintaining this exalted truth with the courage of our ancestors? The + zeal of our fathers, if revived in these days, would electrify the + world. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What financial question in those days ensnared the Church? +</p> +<p> + 2. How was her independence affected by state patronage? +</p> +<p> + 3. What was the great question in controversy? +</p> +<p> + 4. How did the state make use of Episcopacy in the battle with + Presbyterianism? +</p> +<p> + 5. How did Melville resist the king's attempt to rule the Church? +</p> +<p> + 6. What did Melville's faithfulness cost him? +</p> +<p> + 7. What need now to advocate the supremacy of Jesus, and the + independence of the Church? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0011"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + VIII. +</h2> +<h3> + MEN OF MIGHT.—A.D. 1596. +</h3> +<p> + Jesus Christ is "the King of glory; the Lord strong and mighty; the Lord + mighty in battle." His servants, filled with the Holy Spirit and devoted + to His cause, grow like Him in moral courage and irresistible action. + Every age supplies the opportunity for heroic service. +</p> +<p> + The Church has always had mighty men willing to venture their lives, + when religion and liberty were attacked; but at no time has there gone + forth a more illustrious band whose heart God touched, than in the last + years of the Sixteenth century. The tide of defection was then rolling + in upon the Church with desolating violence. The truth of Christ's + supremacy was being submerged beneath the waves of Episcopacy. The right + of Christ to rule His Church was disputed by King James, and claimed as + his own prerogative. The true servants of God writhed in shame and + sorrow, as they saw the diadem of Christ snatched from His brow and + clutched by a presumptuous man. The times demanded men who would not + quail in the presence of the sceptered monarch; or at his threats of + imprisonment, banishment and death. The soldiers of the cross stepped + forth. The "threescore valiant men of the valiant of Israel" were there, + standing about the KING OF KINGS; "every man with his sword on his + thigh, because of fear in the night." +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="350"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0009"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_9.jpg" width="347" height="350" +alt="Edinburgh Castle."> +<b>Edinburgh Castle.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +The Castle is built on a rock that rises with rugged abruptness 300 feet + high. It is inaccessible except on one side, which opens upon the + esplanade, on the foreground of the picture. In this Castle, many + notable martyrs were imprisoned, and there awaited their execution. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Andrew Melville was chief among the captains in those days. His face was + luminous with an inner light; his eye pierced through the countenance of + his adversaries; his bearing overwhelmed his enemies with the innate + majesty of truth and holiness. What a torrent his electrified soul + poured forth when he opened his mouth and protested against the wrongs + done to Jesus Christ and the Church! His eloquence was like a rushing + river, an irresistible Niagara. Like Knox, it was said, "He never feared + the face of man." In private and in public, in the pulpit and through + the press, he reproved kings, princes, judges, and nobles for their + sins. He did his best work when he met them face to face. The dishonor + done to Christ by denying His royal rights made his blood boil, and + fired his soul with vehement love in defence of his Lord and Master. But + he suffered for his faithfulness. He was imprisoned; yet four years + spent in jail, eating bad bread, breathing foul air, sleeping on a hard + bed, groping in the darkness, lonesome in the pest-room, brought him no + regret for preaching Christ. From prison he went into banishment, and + from banishment, + home to heaven. In his last illness he was asked if he desired the + return of health. "No, not for twenty worlds," was his spirited reply. +</p> +<p> + John Davidson also shines in history as a minister of dauntless courage. + He breasted the destructive flood of declension, and endured the + buffeting of the waves. His humility prepared him for great service in + the kingdom of God. He was deeply grieved by reason of the loose + doctrines and practices prevailing within the ministry. The Church was + infected and corrupted with the inventions of man. Through his effort + the General Assembly held a special meeting in 1596, to observe a fast + and renew the Covenant of 1581. The meeting was held on the 30th of + March of that year. The showers of spring were falling, the mountain + streams were flowing, the fields were putting on their soft verdure, the + flowers were appearing in their beauty—all nature seemed to be breaking + forth into holy laughter through her tears. How impressive this emblem + of the memorable meeting, where earnest men prayed and wept and sobbed + and sat in sadness and silence, in the presence of God confessing their + sins! Then, with uplifted hands, they "made promise before the Majesty + of heaven to amend their ways." A great reviving followed, and many + hearts were made glad. Two years later Mr. Davidson met the king, and, + refusing to submit conscience to his tyrannic will, was cast into + prison. +</p> +<p> + John Welch, too, is found in the front ranks of the Church's noblest + defenders. His wife, Elizabeth, daughter of John Knox, was his equal in + courage and steadfastness. His life caught high inspiration from her + faith, and her heart gloried in his heroic spirit; the two mountains + were alike high. +</p> +<p> + King James had determined to crush the General Assembly of the + Presbyterian Church. That Assembly stood in his way as he strode toward + despotic power. He must remove the hindrance, or fail in his ambition. + He commanded the Assembly to hold no more meetings, except by his + permission. Against his royal decree, a few bold-hearted men met on the + first Tuesday of July, 1605. This was the last free General Assembly for + a whole generation. In 1618 this court of God's house disappeared + altogether under the king's despotic rule, till 1638, when Scotland + arose once more in the power of the Lord, and renewed her Covenant. +</p> +<p> + John Welch was one of the few ministers who braved the king's wrath, and + approved of the forbidden meeting. Within a month he was in jail. The + place of his detention was called "Blackness." In his little cell, damp, + dark, foul, and lonely, he had time to reflect. He remembered his happy + home, faithful wife, loving children, garden walks, sweet sunshine, soft + breezes, pleasant Sabbaths, inspiring pulpit, glowing audience—he could + now think of all, and see the cost of fidelity to Jesus. Did it pay? He + could lay his aching head on its hard pillow, and dream of the happiness + that was gone, and awaken to ask if it had been worth while. Did it pay + to be true to Christ? Listen; he speaks from his prison: "We have ever + been waiting with joyfulness to give the last testimony of our blood to + Christ's crown, scepter, and kingdom." +</p> +<p> + Welch found his great strength in prayer. Prayer to him was conversation + with God. His soul was familiar with Jesus. He often arose from his bed + to talk with God. He kept a shawl at hand, when at home, to cast over + his shoulders during these rapturous hours. In the summer nights he + spent much time under the trees in communing with the Lord of heaven. To + him the stars lost their brilliancy in the presence of the Bright and + Morning Star. His soul took many a bath in the ocean of eternal light. + On one occasion his wife listened to his mysterious talk with God. He + was in the agony of earnestness. "Lord, wilt not Thou give me Scotland?" + he cried. Then followed the outpouring of contentment: "Enough, Lord, + enough." At another time, the awful glory of the Lord was let in upon + his soul, till he called out, "O Lord, hold Thy hand; it is enough; Thy + servant is a clay vessel and can hold no more." +</p> +<p> + Mrs. Welch was as heroic as her husband. When she pleaded with the king + for his release, he consented, on condition that Welch would recede from + his position. Mrs. Welch, lifting up her apron in the presence of the + king, replied, "Please, your majesty, I would rather kep his head here!" + referring to the axeman's block, and the head rolling from it into her + apron. +</p> +<p> + The sovereignty of Jesus calls for heroic lives. This royal truth, + defended by the fathers, at the cost of much blood, must yet be lifted + up in the sight of the world. Brave men and women are needed now as much + as ever, even those who count the honor of Jesus worth more than life, + yea, more precious than all that the heart holds dear on earth. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What great principle in the Church was here at stake? +</p> +<p> + 2. How did Christ's servants contend for His supremacy? +</p> +<p> + 3. What notable men did God raise up for the occasion? +</p> +<p> + 4. By what means was the Church again revived? +</p> +<p> + 5. What violence did the Presbyterian Assembly suffer by the king? +</p> +<p> + 6. How long was the Assembly suppressed? +</p> +<p> + 7. What was the secret of power in these defenders of the truth? +</p> +<p> + 8. State the present need of moral heroes. +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0012"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + IX. +</h2> +<h3> + DARKNESS BROODING OVER THE LAND.—A.D. 1600. +</h3> +<p> + The Seventeenth century dawned upon Scotland amidst ominous clouds. + Storms were gathering that swept the land for more than eighty + years—storms of "fire, and blood, and vapors of smoke." The intervals + of sunshine were few. The flock of God, the beautiful flock, suffered + grievously by reason of wolves that entered into the fold in sheep's + clothing. +</p> +<p> + "No bishop, no king," cried King James. He evidently meant, "No Prelacy, + no despotism." He made the Prelatic form of Church government, of which + he was the recognized head, the bulwark of his assumed supremacy over + the Church and his tyranny over conscience, and took every occasion to + assert his power. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="300"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0010"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_10.jpg" width="330" height="350" +alt="Souvenirs of the Covenanters."> +<b>Souvenirs of the Covenanters.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Battle-flag, carried at Drumclog; drum, seen at Lochgoin, said to have + been in use at the battle of Bothwell Bridge; Captain Paton's Bible, + which he gave his wife from the scaffold; his sword, which he wielded + with terrible effect; and a powder horn used in those times. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The General Assembly had appointed the date and place for a meeting in + 1604. The king arbitrarily postponed the meeting one year, and at the + expiration of the year postponed it again. But there were + high-principled men who resisted the domineering monarch. Nineteen + faithful ministers had met with + a number of elders, just as fearless and faithful as the ministers, and + constituted the Assembly against the king's specific orders. Their + defiance of the king's authority was at the risk of their lives. This + was their last free Assembly for thirty years. These men were haled + before the judges, and, being found guilty of disobeying the king, were + sentenced. During the next twelve years the king dominated the Assembly, + after which he dissolved it, permitting no more meetings while he lived. + The Prelatic party henceforth held the power and ruled the Church with a + high hand. +</p> +<p> + The form of worship was changed; human devices, in place of God's + appointments flooded the Church. Departure from the old ways was + especially marked by a measure known as the "Five Articles of Perth." + These were sanctioned by the king, and rigorously enforced in his effort + to subdue all who resisted or protested. Henceforth Presbyterians had to + conform to the new mode of worship, or feel the weight of the law in + confiscation, imprisonment, banishment, or death. +</p> +<p> + These Articles of Perth were sanctioned by the Parliament. This act of + ratification was accompanied by a remarkable demonstration of + Providence. Parliament was then evidently carrying out the will of the + king, for the subversion of the Presbyterian Church, the Reformed + religion, the liberty of conscience, and the rights of the people. + Parliament met for this purpose in Edinburgh, August 4, 1621. The + morning was gloomy. With the advancing hours the clouds grew denser and + darker; the whole sky became covered with blackness; a storm of divine + wrath seemed to bend the very heavens with its weight. Just at the + moment when the Marquis of Hamilton, performing the final act of + ratification in the name of the king, touched the official paper with + the scepter, a streak of lightning blazed through the gloom, and + another, and a third, blinding the guilty men in the presence of their + awful deed. Three peals of thunder followed in quick succession, making + every heart tremble. A momentary pang of conscience must have been felt, + while the KING of heaven spoke in thunder that made their ears tingle, + and in flames that dazzled their eyes. This dismal day, July 25, 1621, + is remembered in Scotland as "Black Saturday." Oh, how black with storm + clouds, with man's guilt, with heaven's rebukes, and with apprehensions + of sorrow and suffering! +</p> +<p> + These were the days of Melville, Welch, and Boyd, who, with other men, + mighty in the Lord, withstood the king to his face, and the government + with its threats and penalties. When the Church was in jeopardy, the + Lord Jesus Christ had His chosen servants, able and willing to defend + the faith. Like the prophets of old, they lifted up their voices in the + high places, wrestled with principalities and powers, uttered their + testimony as with the voice of thunder, and cheerfully sealed their + testimony with their blood. +</p> +<p> + Among the champions of that day, Robert Bruce, an eminent minister of + the Gospel, took his place in the thickest of the fight. He was a large + man, dignified and commanding in appearance; the countenance, physique, + intellect, and spirit denoting true kingliness and strength. He may have + been a descendant of his famous namesake, Robert Bruce, one of + Scotland's great kings; his heart was just as heroic and patriotic. This + soldier of the cross was strong because he lived in the bosom of God's + love; his life was fragrant with heaven's atmosphere. He had a keen + conscience. When urged to accept the ministry he at first refused, but + that refusal caused such remorse that he said, he would rather walk + through half a mile of burning brimstone than have the mental agony + repeated. +</p> +<p> + Bruce, during his early ministry, was greatly beloved by the king. Such + was his delight in him that he was chosen to anoint the king's bride and + place the crown on her head. Three years after this pleasant event he + incurred the king's wrath by discountenancing his majesty's authority + over the Church. Being commanded to perform a certain service in the + pulpit he resolutely refused. To forfeit thus the royal good will, and + take the risk of consequences, required courage of the highest type. + But Bruce was a man of public spirit and heroic mind, equal to the + occasion, through the abiding Spirit of God, that wrought mightily in + him. +</p> +<p> + When matters were going from bad to worse, in his relation to the king, + he attended a meeting with a few other ministers, contrary to the king's + proclamation, to take counsel concerning the Church. A delegation was + appointed at this meeting to wait on the king, and urge their plea for + relief. Bruce was the spokesman. The king received the delegates, but + listened with impatience. He was in bad humor; anger flushed his face. + "How durst you convene against my proclamation?" he said. "We dare more + than that, and will not suffer religion to be overthrown," was the swift + reply. Bruce, after this interview, quickly felt the power of the law. + His property was seized; he was driven from home; and, on permission to + return, was required to cease preaching. This he refused to do, finally + consenting to quit for ten days. That night he fell into a fever, and + suffered such terrors of conscience, that he resolved that he would die + ere he would make a promise like that again. +</p> +<p> + Bruce's strength lay in his familiarity with Jesus Christ. His preaching + was with power, because Christ was with him. On one occasion, being late + for the service, a certain person reported, saying, "I think he will + not come to-day, for I overheard him in his room say to another, 'I + protest I will not go unless thou goest with me.'" He was talking with + Jesus about going to preach. In his prayers he was brief, but "every + word was as a bolt shot to heaven;" and in preaching he was slow and + solemn, but "every sentence was as a bolt shot from heaven." He, having + finished his work, entered into glory, saying pleasantly to his + children, as the dying hour drew near, "I have breakfasted with you this + morning, and I shall sup with my Lord Jesus Christ this night." That + night he entered the heavenly city. +</p> +<p> + They who are truly alive to the holiness, justice, and goodness of God, + and dwell in the radiance of His blessed face, will get views of the + Church and her mission, that will inspire to greatest service and + noblest sacrifices for Christ and His cause. They will arise far above + ordinary life, in effort, enthusiasm, power, and stability in the Lord's + work. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Why did the king insist on having bishops in the Church? +</p> +<p> + 2. How did the Presbyterian ministers oppose them? +</p> +<p> + 3. In what way did the king authorize that which corrupted Church + services? +</p> +<p> + 4. What device for public worship was ratified by parliament? +</p> +<p> + 5. What significant providence accompanied this daring act? +</p> +<p> + 6. What champion of freedom arose at this time? +</p> +<p> + 7. Wherein lay Bruce's great strength? +</p> +<p> + 8. How may we, too, become inspired for service? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0013"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + X. +</h2> +<h3> + APPROACHING A CRISIS—A.D. 1622. +</h3> +<p> + The Church confronts greatest temptations and dangers when at peace with + the world. A period of outward prosperity is almost certain to result in + moral deterioration and produce membership of inferior mould. The + appointments of God in divine worship being few, simple, and spiritual, + are likely to be displaced by the showy, deceptive, sensuous inventions + of man when the Church is honored with success. The Holy Spirit then + withdraws in measure; frigid formality quickly follows; the services, + however beautiful, become artificial and spiritless. +</p> +<p> + God has good reason for sending upon His Church periodical trials, + hardships, persecutions—storms that winnow the wheat, fires that melt + the gold. Such tests of faith purify the Church, run off the dross, + throw out the counterfeits, break off the dead branches. The people of + God are then distinguished; their heroic qualities are called into + action; they become burning and shining lights in the surrounding + darkness. This severe process may reduce the enrollment, yet it + mightily strengthens the ranks. The Lord Jesus would rather have one of + ten if true, than all the ten yea, ten times ten if untrue. Christ Jesus + prefers 300 who can wield the sword of the Lord and of Gideon, to 30,000 + who are indifferent or faint-hearted. +</p> +<p> + The Presbyterian Church made great progress under the Covenant of 1581 + and overspread the kingdom. After ten years of prosperity came another + declension. Again she was reclaimed and revived by the renewing of the + Covenant of 1596. Once more she became exceedingly prosperous and + popular; but her popularity resulted in weakness. Multitudes "joined the + Church" merely for place, privilege, and power. These soon made + themselves felt on the wrong side: they controlled the courts of God's + House. Faithful ministers contended for the truth, resisted the + innovations, protested in the name of Jesus, and suffered because they + would not consent to do evil. They were overpowered and sometimes were + displaced, sometimes imprisoned, sometimes banished. Their farewell + sermons were heart-rending. Amid the sobs and wails of the affectionate + people, the farewell exhortations came from these devoted men of God as + words from heaven. Great excitement and sorrow prevailed in the + churches, as the stricken congregations took leave of the pastors who + loved the truth more than their own lives. Who can wonder at the + indignation that arose like a storm, as the congregation witnessed their + beloved pastor and his wife and children leave their home, and go forth + to wander under the skies of summer or through the storms of winter, not + knowing whither they were going! Should the people be censured for + nailing the church doors against intruding ministers, and refusing to + hear the hirelings sent to fill the pulpit against their will? +</p> +<p> + The Five Articles of Perth, adopted by those who were in power in the + Church and enforced by Civil law, became the pastor's test. The + Presbyterian minister who would not approve of the Five Articles was + deposed. But how could a Covenanter give his approval without perjury? + The Five Articles of Perth were these: +</p> +<p> + Kneeling at the Communion; +</p> +<p> + Observance of Holidays; +</p> +<p> + Episcopal Confirmation; +</p> +<p> + Private Baptism; +</p> +<p> + Private Communion. +</p> +<p> + The first implied the worship of the bread; the second, the homage of + saints; the third, the approval of Prelacy; the fourth, that baptism was + necessary to salvation; and the fifth, that the communion opened heaven + to the dying; all savored of Popery. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="300"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0011"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_11.jpg" width="277" height="350" +alt="Alexander Henderson."> +<b>Alexander Henderson.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Alexander Henderson was born in 1583, and died in the 63rd year of his + age. He began his ministry in the Prelatic Church. Under a sermon by + Robert Bruce, he was convinced of the error of that system—and became a + powerful defender of the Presbyterian faith. He became a distinguished + leader of the Covenanters, taking a prominent part in the Covenant of + 1638, in the Solemn League and Covenant, and in other notable events. + His grave is in Greyfriars' churchyard. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + What minister having any regard for conscience could sign this list of + errors, after swearing the Covenant? Would he not immediately feel his + spiritual life sink below zero? Would not his heart chide him bitterly + for the degradation of his office and manhood? And God is greater than + the heart. +</p> +<p> + David Dickson was one of the ministers who had strength to endure, + rather than bend. He was a young man full of fire and holy power. He had + charge of a flourishing congregation at Irvine. His preaching swayed the + people. They crowded the church to hear him. His appeals melted the + heart and watered the cheeks. He was bold to denounce the Articles of + Perth. The authorities called him up and commanded him to retract; he + refused. A sad farewell to his flock followed. Rather than support + error, however popular and profitable, he would sacrifice the dearest + ties on earth and journey to parts unknown. And this he did. +</p> +<p> + Alexander Henderson, another minister, encountered the displeasure of + the men in power and suffered much at their hands. In his early life he + accepted the Prelatic creed and entered the ministry in favor with the + party. He was sent to a church which, a short time previous, had + experienced the violent removal of their beloved pastor. The people were + indignant at Henderson's coming. They barricaded the door of the church. + The delegates that had come to ordain him, not being able to effect an + entrance through the door, entered by a window. + Henderson was that day settled as the pastor of an absent congregation. + In the lapse of time he won the people. He was faithful and powerful as + a preacher of the Word, and the Lord Jesus honored him in the eyes of + large audiences. +</p> +<p> + One day Henderson went to hear a Covenanted minister, Robert Bruce, at a + communion. He was shy and concealed himself in a dark corner of the + church. Mr. Bruce took for his text, "He that entereth not by the door + into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief + and a robber." The minister having read his text paused, and in + dignified posture, with head erect, scanned his congregation with eyes + that gleamed with holy fire. Such was his custom before beginning his + sermon. Henderson felt the blaze of those eyes. He seemed to be the very + man for whom they were searching. The recollection of having entered + upon his ministry by climbing through a window horrified him. He went + from that meeting determined to investigate Prelacy in the light of the + Scriptures. The result was conviction of the truth and conversion to the + Covenanted cause. Deportation from his devoted flock quickly followed. + He was thereafter found in the forefront of the fight against the + supremacy of the king over the Church, and against Prelacy that upheld + the king in his arrogant assumption of the royal prerogative of the Lord + Jesus Christ. +</p> +<p> + The minister of Christ is the watchman of the Church. He is placed upon + Zion's walls to sound an alarm at the approach of danger. He is charged + with responsibility for the people. If they perish through his neglect + to give warning of dangers, his life for theirs. Faithful preaching may + not be pleasant or profitable to the minister. Declaring the whole + counsel of God may involve the pastor in trouble, demand sacrifices, + result in hardships, controversies, separations; yet the Lord requires + it, the people need it, no safety without it for either the flock or the + shepherd. Without fidelity no power with God, no comfort of the Spirit, + no approval from Christ. Are they who serve as ministers of Christ + willing to sacrifice ministerial support, relationship, popularity, + applause—everything temporal, rather than one jot or one tittle of the + truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Why does God send trials upon His Church? +</p> +<p> + 2. Mention some of the fluctuations in the Church's condition. +</p> +<p> + 3. What class of ministers then had the ascendancy? +</p> +<p> + 4. How did the faithful ministers suffer? +</p> +<p> + 5. What became the test for the pastorate? +</p> +<p> + 6. What faithful young minister declined the test? +</p> +<p> + 7. What was Alexander Henderson's experience? +</p> +<p> + 8. Explain the responsibility of ministers. +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0014"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XI. +</h2> +<h3> + THE ADVANCE GUARDS.—A.D. 1630. +</h3> +<p> + King James VI. continued his warfare against Presbyterianism until his + death. This occurred March 27, 1625. With advancing years he grew more + bitter, using every means to coerce the Covenanters and bring them into + submission. They stood as a wall of fire between him and his cherished + ambition to rule supreme over Church and State. He resolved to break + down that wall and quench that fire. +</p> +<p> + Covenanted Presbyterianism has always stood for liberty, conscience, + enlightenment, progress, and exalted manhood, resisting all tyrants and + oppressors. Presbyterianism recognizes as the crowning glory of man, his + relation to God, all men alike being subjects of His government and + accountable at His throne; all being under law to God and under law to + no man, except in the Lord. Presbyterianism honors every honest man as a + real king, clothed with innate majesty, crowned with native dignity, and + exalted far above the conventional office of earth's highest monarch. + Yet does Presbyterianism sustain all rightful rulers as ministers of + God, and enjoin upon all people submission in the Lord. +</p> +<p> + In the beginning of 1625, while the snow was yet mantling the mountains + in white, the symbol of moral purity and goodness, the king was grimly + planning to debase and corrupt the best people in his realms. He gave + orders to celebrate Easter with a Communion according to the Articles of + Perth, announcing a severe penalty against all who would not comply. The + decree was not enforced, for the Lord came suddenly to the unhappy + monarch, saying, "Thy soul is required of thee." Easter came with its + soft winds and opening buds, its singing brooks and flowery nooks, but + King James was not there; the Judge had called him, death had conquered + him, the grave had swallowed him; his miserable life was broken off + under sixty years of age; and after death, eternity; the long, long + eternity. +</p> +<p> + His Son, Charles I., inherited the father's troubled kingdom, despotic + principles, and wilful doggedness. The young ruler began his reign by + breathing out threatenings against the Covenanters. Yet the Lord in many + ways strengthened His people. He gave them at this time some remarkable + Communions and memorable seasons of refreshing. He pitied them for they + were nearing the fiery trials that would try their faith to the utmost. + To prepare them for the testing times. He led them up into the mountain + of His loving favor and gave them another memorable privilege of + renewing their Covenant. +</p> +<p> + John Livingston, an honored minister of Jesus Christ, was of great + service to the Church at this time. He preached Christ and his contested + truths with power and striking effect. He stood in the strength and + majesty of the Chief Shepherd and fed the flock given into his care. + This flock was very large. Multitudes gathered about him waiting for the + Word at his lips; the church could not hold them. God gave the people + spiritual hunger that brought them from afar; they came over the hills + and along the vales, converging upon the place of worship as doves fly + to their windows. They journeyed solemnly from their homes to the House + of God, both in the calm of summer and in the storms of winter. They + came in the dew of the morning and tarried till protected by the + gloaming. Men and women, old and young, gathered around this man of God + who ministered comfort, strength, and eternal life, through Jesus + Christ, with wonderful power and grace unto their troubled souls. +</p> +<p> + Our Monday service of the Communion originated under Mr. Livingston. The + Sacrament of the Lord's Supper had been administered to a large + congregation. The preaching and serving of tables filled the long summer + Sabbath. It was June 20, 1630. The great congregation had come with + souls lifted up to God in prayer; the church was not large enough to + hold the people, and the churchyard was filled with devout worshipers. + They sat upon the grass like the thousands that were fed by Christ in + the days of old. The soft wind blew upon them as it listed, and the Holy + Spirit, too, came with mysterious power; the vast assembly was deeply + moved. The long Sabbath was followed by a short night. Monday came, and + the people, having been profoundly affected by the services of the + preceding day, were again early on the grounds. They felt that they + could not separate without another day of worship—a day of thanksgiving + to the Lord for the wondrous revelations of His love at His holy table. + Mr. Livingston was constrained to preach, and that day proved to be the + great day of the feast. An unusual awe fell upon the preacher and his + hearers; the Holy Spirit wrought marvelously, melting the hearts of the + vast congregation and filling them with comfort, strength, and + thankfulness. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="410"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0012"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_12.jpg" width="408" height="350" +alt="Jean Geddes Throwing Her Stool."> +<b>Jean Geddes Throwing Her Stool.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Jean Geddes sat convenient to the pulpit on the eventful Sabbath, when + the dean attempted to introduce the new "Prayer Book" in St Giles' + Church. The innovation had by anticipation filled the people with + intense indignation. A storm was brewing. This heroine, unable to + restrain herself, sprang to her feet and hurled her stool at the dean's + head, exclaiming. "Villain, dost thou say mass at my lug?" The dean + dodged the stool and escaped. Confusion followed, and the service for + that day was abandoned. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Mr. Livingston and his people declined to conform to the "Articles of + Perth." A goodly number of other ministers and their churches likewise + refused. The king determined to force them into submission by + authorizing a "Book of Public Worship", called the Liturgy. July 23, + 1637, was the day appointed for its introduction. An attempt to force a + mode of worship upon Scotch Presbyterians! No experiment could be more + perilous to the king; it was indiscretion bordering on insanity. The + very announcement produced an underground swell such as precedes a moral + earthquake. Murmurings, groanings, threatenings, dark forebodings swayed + the nation. These were gusts fore-running the storm. +</p> +<p> + The day for testing the Liturgy arrived. Attention was chiefly + concentrated upon the Church of St. Giles at Edinburgh. The large + auditorium was filled with Presbyterians who were accustomed to worship + God in the plain, solemn manner of the apostles. The suspense preceding + the service was painful. Each heart was beating fast, repressed emotion + was at white heat, the atmosphere was full of electricity, no one could + tell where the fiery point would first appear. At length the dean stood + in the pulpit before the gaze of his insulted audience. He opened the + new book and began. That was enough, the spark struck the powder, the + explosion was sudden. Jean Geddes, a woman whose name is enshrined in + history, and whose stool is a souvenir in the museum,—Jean, impelled by + a burst of indignation, bounced from her seat and flung her stool at the + dean's head, crying with a loud voice, "Villain, dost thou say mass at + my lug?" The unpremeditated deed acted as a signal; the whole + congregation was immediately in an uproar; the dean fled and the service + came to an undignified conclusion. +</p> +<p> +The indignation manifested itself in many other + places that Sabbath. In the Greyfriars' Church, there were deep sobs, + bitter crying, and wails of lamentation. Over the entire kingdom the + excitement was intense. The Scotch blood was stirred; the king had + outraged the most sacred feelings of the people. They held meetings, + prayed to God, and petitioned the king. The king replied to their + petition, like Rehoboam, with blustering insolence. The Covenanters were + not intimidated, their determined resistance was contagious and stirred + vast communities, national sympathy was aroused; the Holy Spirit wrought + mightily upon multitudes. Three days after the king's haughty reply had + been received, a procession, including twenty-four noblemen, one hundred + ministers, and bands of commissioners from sixty-six churches, marched + boldly into Edinburgh and enforced their petition by a demonstration of + strength, with which not even the king could afford to trifle. +</p> +<p> + Do the children of these Covenanters appreciate the value and power of + the truth? Have the fundamental principles of the kingdom of Jesus + Christ become incarnated in our lives? Do the doctrines of the Word + circulate in the blood, throb in the heart, flash in the eye, echo in + the voice, and clothe the whole person with strength and dignity? Is the + Covenant of these ancestors a living bond that binds the present + generation to God, through which His energy, sympathy, purity, life, + love, and glory descend upon us in continual streams of refreshing? + Then will our mission on earth be fulfilled, our work in the Church will + be blessed, our testimony for the Lord will be powerful, and our efforts + to win others for Christ will be fruitful. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. When did King James VI. die? +</p> +<p> + 2. What was he planning when death claimed him? +</p> +<p> + 3. Who was his successor? +</p> +<p> + 4. What course did his son Charles pursue? +</p> +<p> + 5. How did God prepare His Church for the approaching trials? +</p> +<p> + 6. How did Communion Monday service originate? +</p> +<p> + 7. How did the king try to enforce uniformity on the Church? +</p> +<p> + 8. How was the Liturgy received by the Presbyterians? +</p> +<p> + 9. What demonstration of strength by the Presbyterians? +</p> +<p> + 10. What practical lesson here for us? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0015"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XII. +</h2> +<h3> + GATHERING OF THE HOSTS.—A.D. 1637. +</h3> +<p> + "Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear + as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners?" What a beautiful and + striking portrait of the Church in her militant character and service! +</p> +<p> + Terrible as an army with banners! The Church is mighty to subdue the + strongholds of Satan; powerful in the use of spiritual weapons; + invincible in the presence of her enemies. She fights the battles of her + Lord, and though often defeated, moves steadily forward assured of final + victory. How terrible her warfare in the sight of enemies! how admirable + in the eyes of heaven! +</p> +<p> + The first impressive demonstration of numbers, power, and resolution, + given by the Church of Scotland, was in 1637. The king and his advisers + had attempted to force upon the Presbyterians the "New Prayer Book" + against their will. The attempt was as insane as it was despotic. As + well might the king have tried to change the song of the sea or the + course of the stars. The Scotch conscience, enlightened by the Word of + God, strengthened by the Covenant, and guided by the Holy Spirit, was + like Scotland's granite, upon which the storms spend their force to no + effect. +</p> +<p> + To resist the king's purpose, the Presbyterians poured into the Capital + from all directions. Home and flocks were left in the care of the mother + and children, and the crops lay ripening in the warm September sun. The + freedom of the Church was the supreme interest that stirred the blood of + these men. They filled the streets of Edinburgh, thousands moved + determinately and irresistibly through the chief thoroughfares of that + awakened city. There was no confusion, this was not a mob. These were + men of mind, purpose, prayer, and peace; they knew their rights and + commanded respect. They carried their Bibles to show their authority. + Resolution gleamed in the face of the grey-headed and flashed from the + eyes of the young men as they stood side by side. Their adversaries were + overawed and made conciliatory promises. The Covenanters therefore + withdrew. +</p> +<p> + The promises were quickly broken. One month later, a fresh attempt by + the king and his counselors to trample the heaven-given right to worship + God with a free conscience stirred the country. The Covenanters were + alert, they were not caught napping. They concentrated their strength + upon the Capital once more, and this time with a speed that surprised + the government. Their number was greater than before; hundreds of + ministers, and hundreds of noblemen, with strong delegations of elders + from many congregations assembled for the occasion. The vast concourse + of people was too unwieldy to meet in one place; they therefore divided + into four sections, each going in its own direction. They held meetings + for prayer and consultation, realizing deeply the dangers that were + converging upon their Church, their homes, and their persons. They + prepared petitions to be presented to the king. Once more they received + assurance of relief, and quietly returned to their homes. +</p> +<p> + The months rolled past heavily. Mild September had seen the country + greatly agitated; bountiful October had witnessed the recurrence and + increase of violent measures; November now came, chilled with sleety + storms, and vexed with man's perfidy and cruel attempt to crush + conscience. More desperate efforts were again in progress by the king + and those who supported him in his claim of supremacy over the Church + and power to regulate her worship. The Covenanters were apprised, and + for the third time the roads converging upon Edinburgh were filled with + their dauntless ranks. They came on foot, on horses, and in wagons; old + men with white locks and young men with iron nerve; ministers and + elders, noblemen and commoners. These were men who were exalted + into Covenant with the Almighty; they had tasted the sweetness of the + liberty of the sons of God; they had felt the energy of the Holy Spirit + throb in their hearts; they had visions of the KING OF KINGS in His + transcendent glory. They came with one resolve—that Jesus Christ must + not be superseded by the king of Scotland in the government of the + Church. They poured into the Capital in strong, living streams, till the + city was almost deluged with their number. The king's officials were + alarmed. Feigning a bold spirit they commanded the Covenanters to depart + on pain of rebellion. The Covenanters, knowing their rights and power, + refused. After preparing a respectful petition to the king, and a strong + remonstrance against the wrongs they suffered, they elected a permanent + commission of sixteen men to remain in the Capital, to protect their + interests and give notice when danger appeared. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="405"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0013"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_13.jpg" width="404" height="350" +alt="Greyfriars' Church."> +<b>Greyfriars' Church.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Here the Covenanters gathered to renew their Covenant in 1638. The house + was crowded to its utmost capacity with renowned minister, elders, and + nobles. The oath was taken and the Covenant signed in the most + impressive manner. The churchyard contains many graves of celebrated + martyrs. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The new year followed the old carrying trouble in its bosom. The + mid-winter storms drove the flocks to the fold and the shepherd to the + cot; all nature rested from labor, awaiting the coming of summer; but + hostilities against the Presbyterian Church took no rest. The king's + Council was removed from Edinburgh to Stirling; from thence they thought + to spring a crushing surprise upon the Covenanters. The news of this + intention spread as if on the wings of lightning. One day was enough to + give the alarm. The Covenanters were minute-men, with the heart of a + lion, the eye of an eagle, and feet swift to meet the battle call. + Before the sun was hot, the morning after the news, the Covenanters had + crowded Stirling. The city authorities seeing their strength meekly + besought them to disband and return home. These Covenanters were + patient, long-suffering, full of charity, believing all things, hoping + all things. Receiving the promise of better treatment, they drew off as + quickly as they had come. They refused to leave Edinburgh when + threatened; they consented to leave Stirling when requested. Behold the + spirit of these Covenanted Presbyterians! +</p> +<p> + But no confidence could be placed in the king or his representatives. + The land was greatly troubled by the wickedness of its rulers. One wave + of commotion followed another; there was no peace, no safety, no + security. Many weary hearts were crying out, "How long, O Lord?" +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters saw that the king was determined to crush their Church. + The General Assembly had not met for twenty years; that court of God's + House had been stamped out beneath the iron heel of despotism; the + lesser courts had been corrupted; the king had resolved on the + subversion of all. Will not ministers and elders soon be worn out by the + incessant and desperate attacks? The sea is roaring, the waves are + raging, will Presbyterianism be engulfed? will the supremacy of Jesus + Christ go to the bottom? Strong hearts are trembling; much prayer is + arising to heaven; from faithful pulpits fervent appeals are ascending + to God. What shall be the end of these things? Is there no remedy to be + found? "Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there?" Must + these spirited men bow to the will of the tyrant and see their Church + brought into bondage? There were great searchings of heart. +</p> +<p> + "The Covenants! the Covenants!" This has been repeatedly the watch-cry + of Scotland in the throes of distress. The Covenants have been the glory + and strength of the Church in the past; will they not be safety and + stability to the Church in the present? Such was the thought that + throbbed in many hearts at this critical moment. The Holy Spirit was now + clothing Himself with Henderson, Warriston, Argyle, and other princes of + God, preparing them to lead the Church into the renewal of her Covenant + with God. +</p> +<p> + The right to worship God according to conscience, when conscience is set + free by the Spirit and enlightened in the Word, must be jealously + guarded. Every attempt to introduce the devices of man into the service + of the Church should be strenuously resisted. Each innovation in the + worship of God does violence to the most delicate and sacred feelings of + the human heart, and is a reflection on the wisdom of the Lord Jesus + Christ, who has ordained all the services of His House with utmost care + and precision. If the Covenanted fathers protested unflinchingly against + a man-made Prayer Book, what would they have done at the appearance of a + modern pulpit programme of music and hymns? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Describe the militant character of the Church. +</p> +<p> + 2. What three successive demonstrations of strength did the Covenanted + Church give against the new Prayer Book? +</p> +<p> + 3. What was the great issue? +</p> +<p> + 4. How should the Church guard divine worship against corruption? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0016"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XIII. +</h2> +<h3> + RENEWING THE COVENANT.—A.D. 1638. +</h3> +<p> + King Charles believed in the divine right of kings, and the + Presbyterians believed in the eternal right of Christ to rule kings. The + two beliefs could not be reconciled; hence the great struggle. The + attacks on Presbyterianism came in rapid succession and with increasing + violence. The Covenanters sternly resisted these attacks. The nation + seemed to be on the verge of civil war. +</p> +<p> + The leading Covenanters saw in the war-cloud, that which blinded eyes + could not see—the hand of the Lord lifted up against the nation. + Henderson, Rutherford, Dickson, and others of penetrating mind + discovered the moral cause of the troubles and trembled for their + country. The Lord was meting out judgment against sin. Divine wrath was + falling upon the people. Judgment had already begun at the House of God. + The King of Righteousness was girding His sword on His thigh for action. + Who will be able to stand when He arises in wrath to vindicate His own + royal rights? These men feared God and trembled at His word. +</p> +<p> + A day of humiliation and fasting was appointed, many came together for + prayer. There were deep searchings of heart followed by pangs of + conscience and cries for mercy. God gave an alarming view of sin. The + defection of the Church and perfidy of the nation seemed to fill the sky + with lurid flames of divine vengeance. The former Covenants had been + broken; the oath was profaned, the obligations denied, the penalty + defied; the Lord had been provoked to pour out His wrath upon the Land. + The day of reckoning seemed to have come. The sense of guilt and the + weight of wrath bowed many souls to the earth. One supreme desire seemed + to prevail—that they arise and return to Him, from whom they had so + deeply and shamefully revolted. +</p> +<p> + "The Covenants! The Covenants!" This was now the national cry. The + Covenants have ever been Scotland's hope, strength, and glory. The cry + went from house to house, from church to church, from earth to heaven. + It was on the lips and in the prayers of men, women, and children. Hope + revived, enthusiasm spread like flames, the nation was rapidly prepared + for the high honors that were awaiting her. The people in large numbers + were fired with a passion to renew their Covenant with God! +</p> +<p> + The Holy Spirit fell mightily upon many, causing a floodtide of + spiritual life to sweep the country. The leading Covenanters were + endowed with wisdom and courage to direct the holy enthusiasm into the + right channel. It had to be turned by prompt action, to present use, and + conserved for the generations to come, or its strength and volume would + soon be lost. On Sabbath February 25, 1638, the ministers preached on + Covenanting. Next day the people met in their churches and received + notice that, on Wednesday following, their Covenant with God would be + renewed in Edinburgh. The announcement struck a responsive chord. The + country was astir early on the morning of the appointed day. Doubtless + many had spent the preceding night with the Lord Jesus Christ in prayer. + While the stars were still shining, many households, we may be assured, + were called around the family altar, that the father might bless his + house and hasten to Edinburgh. The commissioners who had been appointed + to lead the people in Covenanting were on the ground at break of day. +</p> +<p> + The Covenant of 1581 was chosen for the present occasion. Two + generations had passed since that solemn bond had lifted the kingdom + into holiest relation with God. Nearly all the Covenanted fathers of + that event had finished their testimony and were gone; only here and + there a patriarchal voice was heard telling of that solemn day and deed. + The grand-children had lost much of the fervor, power, purpose, holy + enthusiasm, dread of God's majesty, fellowship with Jesus Christ, and + raptures in the Holy Spirit—had lost many of the countless and + unspeakable blessings descending from the sure Covenant made with God + and kept by their fathers. Fifty-seven years had elapsed and many + changes had occurred. Henderson, by appointment, added to the Covenant + what was necessary to make it applicable to their times. +</p> +<p> + The Holy Spirit came in great power upon thousands and tens of thousands + on that eventful morning; the day was bringing heaven's best blessings + to the Church and the nation. It was still winter; but not frozen roads, + nor drifting snows, nor lowering clouds, nor biting winds, could stay + the people. Many men and women, old and young, were far on their way + before the sun had softened the rasping air. They came on foot and on + horses, in carriages and in wagons, through the valleys, over the + mountains, along the highways and the lanes, pouring into the jubilant + city from all directions as rivers of enthusiastic life. It has been + estimated that sixty thousand came that day to take part in the renewing + of the Covenant, or to give countenance and influence to the solemn + deed. To these spirited people the winter was over and gone, though + February still lingered; the time of the singing of birds had come, + though the earth was clad in her mantle of snow. The season had lost its + rigor upon these Covenanters; their cheeks were red, but not so much + with wintry blasts as with holy animation. It was a summer day to them. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="515"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0014"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_14.jpg" width="511" height="350" +alt="Signing the Covenant."> +<b>Signing the Covenant.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +The Covenant of 1638 was signed first by those who filled the + Greyfriars' Church. The parchment was then brought outside and laid on a + flat tombstone, where those who had assembled in the churchyard eagerly + embraced the opportunity to add their signatures. The people were deeply + moved, as they thus joined themselves and their children to the Lord, in + an everlasting Covenant never to be forgotten. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + At the appointed hour, Greyfriars' Church and churchyard were crowded + "with Scotland's gravest, wisest, and best sons and daughters." + Alexander Henderson constituted the meeting with prayer. His earnest + words were deeply felt, they seemed to bring the Lord of glory out of + heaven. The Earl of Loudon made a solemn address, appealing to the + Searcher of motives. Archibald Johnston unrolled the vast parchment and + read the Covenant in a clear voice. Silence followed—a dreadful pause + during which the Holy Spirit was doing great work on all present. The + Earl of Rothes broke the silence with a few well-chosen words. Another + solemn pause ensued, while all eyes watched for the next act in the + sublime programme. The Covenant was ready for signatures. What name will + have the honor of heading the list on that white parchment? At length + the Earl of Sutherland, an aged elder, with much reverence and emotion, + stepped forward and taking the pen with trembling hand subscribed his + name. Others rapidly followed. The heart went with the name, the blood + was pledged with the ink, the Covenant was for life even unto death. + When all in the church had subscribed, the parchment was carried to the + churchyard and placed on a flat tombstone, where the people outside + added name after name till there was no room, no, not for an initial + letter. The scene was impressive beyond description; the people gave + themselves willingly unto the Lord. Many wrote through blinding tears + and with throbbing hearts; some added the words, "Till death"; some drew + blood from their own veins for ink. Then as the sun was westering in the + cold sky, they lifted up the right hand to Almighty God, the Searcher of + hearts, avowing allegiance to Him with the solemnity of a most sacred + oath. Surely this was Scotland's greatest day. The Church may now be + called Hephzibah, and her land, Beulah. Immanuel is the name of her + Covenant Lord. "Glory, glory, in Immanuel's land!" +</p> +<p> + The evening drew on; the spirited demonstrations of that eventful day, + like a glorious sunset, melted away; but the Covenant, in all its + sacredness, substance, obligations, and strength, remained for the next + day, and the next generation, and all generations to come. Thus was + Scotland's National Covenant renewed in 1638. +</p> +<p> + Let the children of these Covenanters not forget, nor lightly esteem + their Covenant inheritance and obligations. How great the honor! + Remember the accountability, withdraw not from the bond. Relation to the + Lord Jesus Christ by means of the Covenants of the fathers loads + descendants with heavy duties, endows them with bountiful blessings, + entrusts them with the welfare of coming generations, crowns them with + high honors, and brings them into judgment to account for all these + advantages and obligations. Let the children of the Covenants take heed + lest they forget the duties, forfeit the blessings, prove themselves + untrustworthy, and trample their heavenly crown in the dust. Let them + fear lest being exalted to heaven they be cast down to hell. The + Covenants of the fathers bind the children. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What new danger was now threatening Scotland? +</p> +<p> + 2. In what way did the Covenanted ministers explain the trouble? +</p> +<p> + 3. To what did they resort for deliverance? +</p> +<p> + 4. How were the people prepared for Covenanting? +</p> +<p> + 5. How was the nation stirred at the prospect of renewing the Covenant? +</p> +<p> + 6. Describe the great gathering of people in Edinburgh on the appointed + day. +</p> +<p> + 7. Describe the solemn act of Covenanting. +</p> +<p> + 8. What obligations descend from that Covenant upon the present + generation of Covenanters? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0017"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XIV. +</h2> +<h3> + THE COVENANTERS AT WORK.—A.D. 1638. +</h3> +<p> + Wednesday, February 28, 1638, was one of Scotland's greatest days. No + victory on any battlefield is more worthy of anniversary honors. No + birthday of statesman or warrior, no discovery in science or geography, + no achievement in ancient or modern civilization, is more entitled to a + yearly celebration. The notable event of that day is the high water mark + of true greatness and moral grandeur in national life; nothing exceeds + it in the world's history. +</p> +<p> + As the evening drew on, the vast multitude that had congregated in + Edinburgh melted away. The sublime transactions in which they had been + engaged had filled them with awe; the shadow of the Almighty had + overspread them, the glory of heaven had descended upon them, and, being + filled with the peace of God and joy unspeakable in the Holy Spirit, + they departed from the city as quietly as they had come and returned to + their homes. The stars were again out while many were yet traveling, but + the great light that fell upon them was the glory of the Lord, as they + carried the brilliant scenes of the day in their hearts. Every + heart-beat had the solemnity of a vow, a prayer, a song of praise, a + psalm of thanksgiving. What devout worship in those homes that night + when the fathers told the touching story of the Greyfriars' Church and + of Covenant. +</p> +<p> + Within a short time the delegates had reached their respective churches, + in which they rehearsed the renewing of their Covenant with God. The + people were deeply moved, the Holy Spirit fell upon them. The interest + became intense; the fires arose into flames; a Covenanting passion swept + the kingdom; the enthusiasm knew no bounds. The Covenant was studied, + accepted, and subscribed by ministers and magistrates, men and women, + old and young, throughout the four quarters of the kingdom. There was a + voice heard throughout the land, as the "voice of a great multitude, and + as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, + saying, Alleluia; for the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth." The Lord Jesus + Christ was glorified in His people, honored by His Church, and exalted + supremely above the nation's haughty monarch. +</p> +<p> + Yet the Covenant had its enemies; but they were apparently few and for a + while very quiet. These anti-Covenanters stood with the king in his + effort to foist Prelacy upon the people. These he repaid with political + preferments. Hitherto they had claimed to be in the majority and + therefore assumed the right to rule over the Presbyterians. But the year + of Jubilee had come; the Covenant proclaimed "liberty throughout all the + land unto all the inhabitants thereof." This Covenant with God revealed + to the people their dignity, privileges, rights, power, and freedom in + Christ Jesus, KING OF KINGS and LORD OF LORDS. In that light which fell + like the glory of heaven upon Scotland, Episcopacy appeared in its real + strength, or rather in its weakness; in comparison with Presbyterianism + it was a mere faction. +</p> +<p> + King Charles ruled Scotland from his throne in London. The Covenanters + were his most loyal subjects, devoted to him on every principle of truth + and righteousness; yet by no means would they permit him to assume the + rights of Jesus Christ without their earnest protest. They hastened to + report the Covenant to the king at London; their adversaries sent + delegates with equal haste. Both sides tried to win the king. As might + have been expected, the Covenanters failed. He was exceedingly wroth. He + branded the Covenant as treason and the Covenanters as traitors. "I will + die," said he, "before I grant their impertinent demands; they must be + crushed; put them down with fire and sword." +</p> +<p> + The king appointed the Marquis of Hamilton to represent his majesty in + Scotland and to subdue the Covenanters. Hamilton accepted the + commission and entered upon his stupendous task. He was authorized to + deceive and betray, to arrest and execute, to feign friendship and wage + war—to use discretionary power; the manner would not be questioned if + the Covenanters were subdued. +</p> +<p> + Hamilton announced his intention to enter Edinburgh, as the king's High + Commissioner, on the 19th of June. Less than four months previous, the + Covenant had been renewed in that city amid transports of joy; must it + now be trampled in the dust? The effects of the Covenant had fallen upon + the kingdom like spring showers that fill the land with songs and + flowers; must the glory be blighted ere the fruitage be matured? The day + set for the commissioner's coming was perfect. The bright sun, clear + sky, blue sea, green fields, purple hills, soft winds, fragrant + blossoms, tuneful birds—all united to make the coming of his majesty's + commissioner a delight. Nature was in her gayest attire. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="300"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0015"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_15.jpg" width="290" height="350" +alt="Archibald Johnston."> +<b>Archibald Johnston.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Known also as Lord Warriston. He took a prominent part in the renewing + of the Covenant in 1638; was chosen Clerk of the General Assembly, that + same year, and continued in this office several years. He was an able + defender of the Covenanted Church. He attained also to high earthly + honors, yet held fast his integrity, and, when far advanced in years, + suffered martyrdom for adherence to the cause of Christ and His + Covenant. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The road chosen for his journey to the city lay along the strand. He + came in a stately carriage. His official dress was brilliant and + imposing. His associates followed, while a strong military guard added + dignity and a tinge of terribleness to the procession. It was Hamilton's + day of high honor. The proud sea rippled its welcome; the mellow winds + floated the national emblem from many a window; the city was gaily + decorated. The king's sympathizers had done their best for the occasion, + but the Covenanters had excelled them all. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters were by no means ignorant of Hamilton's power and + purpose; yet they recognized him as the king's representative, and + therefore they would do him honor. They were truly loyal. No taint of + treason had ever mingled in their blood. They resolved to give the + commissioner every opportunity to do his duty as ruler, yet stood ready + to resist if he did wrong. They came to the city in force; their number + was estimated at sixty thousand. They thronged the road over which + Hamilton passed, banked the hillsides with earnest faces, raised their + caps in sincere respect for the commissioner, and lifted up their voices + in prayer for their king and their country. When Hamilton saw the + great-heartedness of the people, whom he came to crush, he wept. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters had requested two things: a free General Assembly and a + Parliament. The Church must have the first; the nation must have the + second. The commissioner, in the name of the king, refused both. King + James had abolished the General Assembly in 1618; there had been none + for twenty years. The Covenanters, braving the king's wrath and the + commissioner's power, appointed a meeting of ministers and elders to be + held in Glasgow, November 21, 1638, five months hence, to re-organize + the General + Assembly. A cloud of war immediately darkened the heavens. Had the + king's wrath been lightning, the meeting-place would have been struck; + but his rage was impotent. +</p> +<p> + When the day for the re-organization of the General Assembly arrived, + the delegates from the Covenanted churches were on the ground. The house + was filled with able, earnest, resolute men, true servants of the Lord + Jesus Christ. They had come in His name at His call to do His work. Each + breathed deeply the spirit of reverence; they felt the presence of God; + holy dignity rested on every brow. They had come in the strength of the + Lord and were ready for duty and its consequences. +</p> +<p> + Hamilton with his friends also appeared. He immediately began the work + of obstruction. Alexander Henderson was chosen moderator, and Archibald + Johnston, known also as Lord Warriston, clerk, both of whom had taken an + active part in the renewing of the Covenant. Hamilton made certain + demands all of which were refused. He then attempted to dissolve the + meeting but failed. In a storm of passion and with vigorous threats he + withdrew, leaving the Assembly to pursue its own course. Can we conceive + of sublimer courage than these Covenanters exhibited in standing by + duty, conviction, and principle, owning their Covenant and honoring + Christ Jesus, in the face of the king's wrath? The Assembly continued + its sessions one month. The work was stupendous, and it was thoroughly + done. The Church was cleansed, the ministry purified, true worship + restored, and enactments adopted for the protection of the Reformed + religion. After pronouncing the final benediction, the moderator said, + "We have now cast down the walls of Jericho; let him that rebuildeth + them beware of the curse of Hiel the Bethelite." +</p> +<p> + Behold how these fathers stood at the risk of their lives for the + sovereignty of Jesus Christ! What devotion, what courage, what + self-immolation! How great the moral grandeur of those lives, lifted up + in the service of Christ far above the fear of man! They felt deeply the + presence and power of the Holy Spirit, giving them wisdom, peace, joy, + and success, in their tasks! Had we the same enduement of the Spirit of + God, surely the Lord's work would prosper in our hands! May God grant + it. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. In what spirit did the people retire from the Covenant Convention in + Edinburgh? +</p> +<p> + 2. How was the Covenant received by the nation? +</p> +<p> + 3. How did King Charles regard it? +</p> +<p> + 4. How did he attempt to counteract its power? +</p> +<p> + 5. In what manner did the Covenanters receive his commissioner? +</p> +<p> + 6. When and where was the General Assembly reorganized? +</p> +<p> + 7. With what interference did it meet? +</p> +<p> + 8. What good work did it accomplish? +</p> +<p> + 9. What trust did it commit to future generations? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0018"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XV. +</h2> +<h3> + THE KING WAGES WAR.—A.D. 1639. +</h3> +<p> + The year of our Lord, 1638, exalted the Covenanted Church into + prominence and power. The Covenant in the beginning of the year, and the + General Assembly at the end, were achievements that arose in sublimity + and moral grandeur like mountains, and all the months between, being + filled with spiritual refreshing, were like table lands covered with the + glory of the Lord, and shaking like Lebanon with prosperous fruit. "The + light of the moon was as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun + sevenfold, as the light of seven days." +</p> +<p> + During the next ten years the Church experienced rapid growth. The + Covenant always seemed to give the Church about ten years of + extraordinary prosperity. The Holy Spirit descended in power, + multiplying the ministry and membership exceedingly. New congregations + sprang up in the towns and in the country, and were shepherded by + faithful ministers. True religion, bringing peace, comfort, and + gladness, entered the homes of the people and lodged with them. The + melody of joy and health was heard in their dwellings. The family altar + made the humblest house the Holy of Holies where God was enthroned on + His Mercy Seat, and the lowliest family was a royal priesthood + ministering unto God in the name of the Lord Jesus. +</p> +<p> + Yet all this time the Church suffered violence. She had become a bright + target upon which Satan concentrated the fire of his heaviest artillery. + One onslaught followed another with vengeful malice. The gates of hell + opened wide and the floods dashed fiercely against her; but she was + built upon a Rock, and that Rock was Christ. She was in alliance with + the Lord. Her people were steadfast in their Covenant; they were united, + full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; therefore the distresses resulted + only in her growth. +</p> +<p> + When the king heard that the General Assembly was in session contrary to + his will and acting directly in violation of his decree, he was filled + with wrath. Having sent Hamilton to use policy and craftiness, and + thereby gain time, he mustered an army of nearly 50,000 men, with which + to punish the Covenanters. He also sent a fleet to co-operate with the + land forces. Absolute subjugation was determined. These people must be + despoiled of conscience, liberty, divine worship, religious rights—all + that is most sacred to the human heart. The army is coming. Men, women, + and children must feel the weight of the horses' hoofs and the + warriors' boots, just because they have joined themselves to the Lord in + a Covenant, and are living the life of faith on the Son of God. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters were not dismayed, yet they hesitated to accept war. + Would it be right to take up arms against the government? Ought they to + go forth against their king in battle? Should they use the weapons that + are carnal, and engage in the shedding of blood? Such questions lay + heavy upon their hearts. They pondered, prayed, and fasted, that they + might reach a decision in the fear of God. Finally they resolved to make + their defence by force of arms. Their cause was just. Momentous issues + were involved; their Covenant with God, the supremacy of Jesus Christ, + the independence of the Church, the liberty of conscience, the purity of + Divine worship, the rights of citizenship, the heritage of future + generations, the progress of Christian civilization—all this appealed + to the Covenanters for defence. The trumpet of war sounded, and the + sturdy sons of the Covenant quickly responded. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="410"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0016"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_16.jpg" width="407" height="350" +alt="Memorial Stone of Captain Paton."> +<b>Memorial Stone of Captain Paton.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Captain Paton was a brave defender of the Covenanters. His exploits in + different battles are noted as extraordinary. Finally he was captured + and, on May 9, 1684, executed in Edinburgh. In his last words he + exhorted the people, saying, "Let your way be the good old path, the + Word of God." His joy on the scaffold was triumphant. This memorial + stone is at Fenwick. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + General Alexander Leslie was at the head of the Covenanted army. He led + his forces with rapid marches to meet the king. Friendly troops + converged upon him on the way from all parts of Scotland till his + command numbered 24,000 men. They presented a formidable array. These + soldiers of the Covenant were marching to victory or to death. Courage + in + the countenance and firmness in the step told of an unconquerable + purpose. Onward moved the resolute columns. Every day brought them + nearer the royal hosts that would test their strength. The sight was + thrilling; solid ranks of infantry, sword-girded cavalry, stalwart + cannoneers, and floating banners. The Psalms reverberated among the + hills in worship morning and evening. Well might King Charles pause ere + he strike against this host of God. +</p> +<p> + One day the Covenanters from an eminence beheld their enemy at a + distance of six miles. General Leslie halted, arranging his troops on + sloping grounds, facing the foe. There he prepared for action. Forty + pieces of cannon bristled along the oval summit; the musketry and + swordmen were placed on the hillside and outstretching plain. The + encampment presented an appearance unusual in warfare. At the tent-door + of each captain the ensign of the Covenant was unfurled. On the banner + was inscribed in letters of gold the soul-stirring motto: +</p> +<pre> + FOR CHRIST'S CROWN AND COVENANT. +</pre> +<p> + As the flag rose and fell on the soft summer winds, the men were + reminded of the sacred cause which they loved more than their lives. A + chaplain of highest character was assigned to each regiment. Every + morning and evening the men were summoned by the beat of drum for the + worship of their God. Such were the Covenanters as they waited in the + presence of their foes for a sanguinary struggle. How often they sang + the 3rd Psalm, the 27th, and the 72nd, we know not. The Psalms were the + lion's marrow upon which these lion-hearted heroes fed. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters did not want to give battle; they were merely on the + defensive. They loved peace and longed for it. They shuddered at the + horror of civil war and would avoid it if at all within their power. + They sent an embassy asking for a conference. The king, knowing the + spirit and power of the men with whom he had to deal, consented. During + the negotiations for peace, the king hesitated to grant the Covenanters + their demand. They would have nothing less than a free General Assembly + and a Parliament. The king would not consent. Gen. Leslie replied by + announcing his intention to advance his army within gunshot of the + king's camp. This persuaded the king to come to terms, and a treaty of + peace was ratified, by which the Covenanters received, on paper, all + they asked. The Covenanters returned to their homes rejoicing in their + Covenant Lord, who had given them the victory without the cost of blood, + and in their homes profound gratitude arose to God in their morning and + evening service of worship. +</p> +<p> + The people continued steadfast in their Covenant, enjoying the rights + and privileges of the children of God for a time. The Lord showered His + blessings upon them. Their increase in power and numbers was marvelous. + The king again became alarmed. He resolved on war once more, and within + a year was at the head of another army, determined to reduce the + Covenanters and bring them into subjection to his arbitrary will. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanted fathers would surrender nothing in which the honor of the + Church and the glory of Christ were involved. They were very jealous + concerning all moral obligations and religious truth. They had + convictions, conscience, intelligence, and the fear of God, and dared to + fight for the right. They distinguished pillars of granite from columns + of brick, and were not confused. They knew that gold dust was gold, and + saved the dust as well as the ingots; they would sacrifice nothing. Can + not we get a lesson here that will make the heart throb and the cheeks + burn, as we view the faithfulness and heroism of these Covenanted + ancestors? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What two great events in the Church transpired in 1638? +</p> +<p> + 2. What growth did the Church experience in the next ten years? +</p> +<p> + 3. What new danger loomed up? +</p> +<p> + 4. How did the Covenanters meet the king's army? +</p> +<p> + 5. Describe the army of the Covenanters. +</p> +<p> + 6. How was this struggle ended? +</p> +<p> + 7. How did the king keep his promise? +</p> +<p> + 8. What lessons may we derive from the fathers? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0019"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XVI. +</h2> +<h3> + THE SOLEMN LEAGUE AND COVENANT.—A.D. 1643. +</h3> +<p> + The Solemn League and Covenant touches a tender chord in the heart of + every true Covenanter. It is a solitaire of statesmanship; a precious + jewel of international law, unique and alone; there is nothing like it + in the world. The historical setting of this lustrous stone is intensely + interesting. Out of what mine did the priceless diamond come? By whose + skill was it so admirably cut and polished? By whose hand was it set in + its own historic foil? Such questions are worthy of serious and earnest + thought. +</p> +<p> + King Charles' war flurry against the Covenanters, in 1639, brought him + no honor. Out-matched on the field, outdone in diplomacy, and utterly + defeated in his purpose, he returned to London greatly humiliated. The + journey was long and dreary, even though he rode in his stately carriage + and behind swiftest horses, for he was chafing over his failure to + reduce the Covenanters. In his palace also he found no comfort, his + magnificent apartments brought him no restfulness. He brooded over his + ill-fortune till his blood was tinctured with acid and his heart + soured; a malignant spirit spread its dark wings over him. He had failed + in his military operations; the Covenanters were stronger and more + independent than hitherto; his Prelatic friends were aggrieved with his + treaty of peace; his power to tyrannize over the public conscience was + waning. Such thoughts racked his brain and wrecked his peace of mind. He + grew sullen, miserable, desperate. It was this passionate and despotic + temperament that carried him into the second war with these Covenanters + whom he so thoroughly hated. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters were yet truly loyal to their king. Their loyalty was + high-principled and self-sacrificing, yet at the same time + discriminating. They bound themselves by their Covenant to be true to + their king and their country. The Covenant recognized the king and the + people to be equally under the law of God, subjects of the moral + government of Jesus Christ. While he occupied his rightful place and + exercised legitimate power, they would stand by him till their blood and + treasures were alike exhausted. Such was their oath of loyalty, and it + was kept with sacred care. But they resisted his authority at the point + where he attempted to crush conscience, rule the Church, and usurp the + royal prerogatives of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is KING OF KINGS. There + they drew the line, and drew it so clear, that all the world might see + it, and the blindest king might pause, consider, and not pass beyond. There + they uttered their solemn protest with the Bible in one hand and the + sword in the other. Such encroachments on their rights and liberties, + and upon the honor and supremacy of Jesus Christ, they met on the + battlefield, when peaceful measures had failed. While these interests + were at stake they counted not their lives dear. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="250"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0017"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_17.jpg" width="244" height="350" +alt="The Martyrs' Monument, Edinburgh."> +<b>The Martyrs' Monument, Edinburgh.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +This monument honors the memory of the martyrs who were executed at the + Grass Market. It stands in Greyfriars' churchyard at the head of a small + plot of ground, where about 100 bodies were at sundry times heaped + together. Here lies the dust of Argyle, Guthrie, Warriston, Cargill, + Renwick, and others of equal fame and faithfulness in the Covenant. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The king on this second occasion collected an army of 21,000 men—all he + could then muster—and hastened to punish the Covenanters. He was not + able at this time to rally the hosts of England; that kingdom was not in + sympathy with his enterprise. His haughty will and arbitrary measures + had alienated the strength of England from his support. The English + Parliament was like a trembling volcano, ready to break out and involve + his throne in ruins. A revolution from monarchy to democracy was sending + its advance swell over the land like a tidal wave. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters, ever loving peace and hating war, had exhausted all + honorable measures to avoid a conflict with their king on the + battlefield. Their efforts however having failed, again the call to arms + resounded through their peaceful glens and over their granite hills. The + shepherd again left his flock, the workman closed his shop, the plowman + released his team, and the minister took leave of his people to follow + the fiery war-cloud. Again the banner was unfurled for CHRIST'S CROWN + AND COVENANT; the silken folds rose and fell on the breeze; the golden + letters and sacred motto flashed upon the eyes of the men who were + willing to follow where it led. Gen. Leslie was again in command. He + boldly crossed the Tweed and hastened to give the king battle on English + soil. The armies having come within range of each other, the usual lull + before the battle ensued. The Covenanted columns, standing under their + colors and gleaming with arms and armor in the bright August sun, struck + terror once more to the king's heart. He dreaded to meet this sea of + living, fiery valor, rolling its waves into his very camp. He saw, as on + the first occasion, that a treaty was the better part of valor and + offered peace. The terms being concluded, the Covenanters returned to + their homes, not knowing how long the peace would last. +</p> +<p> + England, too, was at this time greatly agitated. She was making a + desperate effort to throw off the galling despotism of King Charles. The + spirit of progress, enlightenment, and liberty was deeply stirring the + people; they were eagerly reaching after a higher and nobler life. The + grand possibilities of improvement and happiness filled them with + visions of better things, and they grew desperate in their purpose to + obtain freedom. Continued subjection to the heartless autocrat became + intolerable. +</p> +<p> + There was public indignation likewise against Prelacy, for by it the + king was inspired and upheld. In the State the revolt was from monarchy + to democracy: in the Church, from Episcopacy to Presbyterianism. The + king, as the head of the Episcopal Church, not only exercised + jurisdiction over her, but used her as an instrument to enforce his + arbitrary will over the people. The king mounted his war horse once + more. This time it was English against English. Strong armies were + mustered on each side. For four long years a civil war swept the unhappy + kingdom, victory perching alternately on the opposing banners. This was + a war of the Parliament against the king, British rule against brutish + rule, humanity against despotism. Scotland watched the struggle of her + sister kingdom with deepest interest. On the one side she was attached + to her king, notwithstanding his incorrigibleness; on the other, she was + devoted to the principles involved, including the independence of the + Church. +</p> +<p> + While the war-cloud was thickening, the English Parliament sent a + delegation to Scotland to consult with the Covenanters in expectation of + receiving aid. The question was entrusted to a Joint Commission. The + deliberations were deep and far-reaching; the men in council were among + the wisest and best in the two kingdoms. They weighed the momentous + interests involved in the pending war, that eventually convulsed England + and watered her soil with fraternal blood. The liberty of both + kingdoms, the progress of the Gospel, the purity of religion, the + independence of the Church, the inheritance of the Covenants, the onward + movement of Christianity—yea, their own homes, possessions, liberties, + and lives—all were at stake in the crisis that darkened the land. These + men turned to God in prayer to meet the task that burdened their hearts + and taxed their wisdom. +</p> +<p> + Dangers, too, were thickening around Scotland as well as England, like + storm-clouds concentrating for a destructive outburst. The king was + planning to restore the Scottish Prelacy to power; he still hoped to + fight his way victoriously into Edinburgh; he had hired an army of + 10,000 men to invade Scotland; he had watched with apparent complacency, + we will not say his sanction, the slaughter of 200,000 Protestants in + Ireland by the Papists. Such were the conditions in both kingdoms, which + these counselors had to face. Dark were the days when this Joint + Commission was in session. Scotland was harassed by internal foes, + England was convulsed in a dreadful strife, and poor Ireland lay + bleeding from a thousand wounds. But here was a band of men whose hearts + reached up to God for counsel, and they were made equal to the occasion. + They knew how to take hold upon Omnipotence and secure the help of + heaven. They had access to the Eternal Throne, and were able to call + into service God's chariots and angels, and fill the mountains with + armies which, though invisible to mortal eyes, were invincible in the + presence of all the hosts of the king, and all the legions of Satan. + Listen to the cry that goes up from that Council Chamber—"The + Covenants! The Covenants!" +</p> +<p> + Scotland had a beaten path up the mountain of God, leading to the + ever-available Covenant. Again she climbs the heights, and this time + leads her two trembling sisters, England and Ireland, by the hand. And + there, on the top of the mountain where the glory of the Lord shines + like the sun in his strength, the three kingdoms, Scotland, England, and + Ireland, enter into THE SOLEMN LEAGUE AND COVENANT. +</p> +<p> + We would appreciate our Covenanted privileges more highly, if we + considered more carefully the difficulties our ancestors overcame in + reaching the Covenant heights. Let us take heed lest, like a foolish + heir squandering his father's wealth, we waste our inheritance, which is + more precious than gold, more priceless than life. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. How did the Covenanters meet the king's second appeal to arms? +</p> +<p> + 2. How was England disturbed at this time? +</p> +<p> + 3. What Joint Commission was then created? +</p> +<p> + 4. What was its purpose? +</p> +<p> + 5. What did it accomplish? +</p> +<p> + 6. What was the intention of the Solemn League and Covenant? +</p> +<p> + 7. Why should we appreciate our Covenanted inheritance? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0020"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XVII. +</h2> +<h3> + HIGH IDEALS BY THE COVENANTED FATHERS.—A.D. 1643. +</h3> +<p> + The Solemn League and Covenant of Scotland, England, and Ireland is the + high-water mark in the moral progress of nations. But the flood of + Divine glory, which then covered these three kingdoms, quickly subsided + and has remained ever since far below that conspicuous mark. God honored + these nations with the greatest privilege accorded to Civil society, and + brought them into the most blessed relation to himself. But they lightly + esteemed the favor and revolted from the Covenant. He therefore hid His + countenance, withdrawing the assistance and protection which they so + gratefully accepted in distress, but deceitfully rejected when + prosperity returned. The relapse threw them suddenly into direful + conditions of misrule, oppression, and profuse bloodshed, which + continued nearly half a century. +</p> +<p> + The Covenant of the three kingdoms, though short-lived in its beneficent + effect, was of immense value to the world. Like the morning star, it + heralded the coming of a bright day to all nations. The star may be + hidden by thickening clouds, but the sun will not fail to rise. This + Covenant stands as a pledge of the ultimate condition of all nations, + points the way into the shining heights of God's favor, and warns + against the aggravated sin of breaking relation with the Lord. It was + the first blast of the trumpet that will one day announce the submission + of the kingdoms of the world to the Lord Jesus Christ. +</p> +<p> + The Scottish fathers evidently regarded Covenanted union as the normal + relation existing between God and man, God and the Church, God and all + the nations. Any thing less than this was, in their estimation, + sub-normal, imperfect, unworthy, dangerous, disastrous to man, and + offensive to God. They loved their Covenant, flew to it in times of + danger as doves to the clefts of the rock, and reproached themselves for + lightly esteeming the inestimable privilege. +</p> +<p> + These Covenanters took their position at the throne of the Lord Jesus, + and contemplated with rapturous delight His many crowns and the + magnificence of His kingdom. Their vast horizon took in heaven and + earth, time and eternity, God and man. In their eyes the affairs of the + world fell into subordinate relations, while the interests of the Church + loomed up in over-awing proportions. +</p> +<p> + The high ideal for nations entertained by the Covenanters of Scotland + will hardly be excelled while the + world lasts. The Lord gave them a vision of what their country should + be: enlightened with the Gospel, governed in righteousness, protected by + Omnipotence, adorned with churches, a school in every parish, and a + college in every city. The land in that vision was married to the + Lord—Beulah was her name. All destroying vices had fled, all public + evils were rooted out. The heavens were beneficent, the soil yielded its + increase, business was prosperous, the armies were victorious, the + rulers were God's ministers, the homes were filled with peace and + plenty, and resounded with the melody of praise. Such was their + conception of the blessed nation whose God is the Lord. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="440"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0018"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_18.jpg" width="434" height="350" +alt="Rutherford in Prison."> +<b>Rutherford in Prison.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Samuel Rutherford was a devoted minister and faithful Covenanter. He had + charge of a congregation at Anwoth, from whence he was driven by + persecution. For a time he was compelled to abide in Aberdeen. Here he + wrote the famous "Letters" that sparkle like rubies, with precious + thoughts. Out of his heart flowed "rivers of living water." Such + spirituality is seldom seen in mortals. His enemies sought his life, yet + God permitted him to die on a peaceful deathbed. A vision of heaven + seemed to break upon his soul in his last moments, and he died, + exclaiming, "Glory, Glory in Immanuel's land." +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + All this was embodied in the Solemn League and Covenant. By analyzing + that international bond we find that it expresses or implies the + following: +</p> +<p> + Nations originate with God, are dependent on His will, subject to His + authority, and accountable at His throne. +</p> +<p> + They are placed under Jesus Christ to be employed by Him to the glory of + God the Father. +</p> +<p> + The chief end of Civil Government is to suppress wickedness and promote + righteousness, and thus prepare the way for the coming of the kingdom of + our Lord. +</p> +<p> + Civil rulers are God's ministers, and as such, should serve the Lord + Jesus Christ by conserving true religion. +</p> +<p> + Civil rulers should be interested in the union of the Churches, in + Doctrine, Worship, Discipline, and Government, according to the + Scriptures. +</p> +<p> + Civil Government should suppress in Church and State all features of + society that are openly criminal or publicly injurious. +</p> +<p> + The people should enter into a solemn Covenant with their rulers and + with God, to place themselves and their possessions in readiness to + sustain the government in its legitimate work. +</p> +<p> + The nation that keeps Covenant with God shall dwell in safety, grow in + power, and enjoy enduring prosperity. +</p> +<p> + Such was the Solemn League and Covenant. +</p> +<p> + Have the principles of Civil government ever had an enunciation so + candid and heroic, so sublime and comprehensive, so ennobling to man and + honoring to God? These principles were not flashes of a high-wrought + imagination; they were practical. The Covenanted fathers reduced them to + practice. These nations embodied them. The time was short, yet long + enough for a demonstration. +</p> +<p> + What dignity rests on the State that is federally and loyally connected + with the empire of the Lord Jesus Christ! How great the security and + excellence of the government that abides under the banner of Christ! How + powerful and happy the people who are exalted into favor with heaven by + a Covenant that binds God and man! Such was the ideal entertained by + the Scottish fathers; and by heroic self-sacrificing effort, they + exalted the three kingdoms into the untrodden heights. These nations + caught glimpses of the glory, basked for a season in the brilliancy, + tasted the sweetness of the banquet, breathed the exhilarating air, then + fell back. By the perfidy of man the vision was shattered and the + idealization wrecked. +</p> +<p> + We shudder at the loss incurred by these kingdoms in their decline from + their Covenant. What would have been their eminence among nations had + the terms of the Covenant been fulfilled? What would have been their + power and prestige had they, by keeping their Covenant, been sheltered + for the last two and a half centuries from the ravages of rum and Rome, + misrule and tyranny, the violence of unscrupulous men and the wrath of + the offended Lord? What numerous posterity! what fruitful fields! what + prodigious wealth! what industrial prosperity! what educational + institutions! what unparalleled progress! what inexhaustible resources + for development at home and achievements abroad! Enjoying the glorious + millennium two hundred and fifty years ahead of the rest of the + world—what such a start would have done for the British Isles is past + finding out. +</p> +<p> + Priest-ridden Ireland failed because at that time her best blood was + soaking the roots of her green meadows; the massacre of her Protestants + by the Romanists had left her low. Half-hearted England failed because + treachery was lurking in her ranks from the beginning. But Scotland! Oh, + Scotland, wherefore didst thou doubt? Wherefore turned ye back, ye sons + of the mighty, lacking neither bows nor other arms? Heroes of the + Covenant, why fainted ye in the day of battle? Shame on Scotland. The + high places of the field, where once the banner for Christ's Crown and + Covenant triumphantly waved, testify against thy treason. +</p> +<p> + But the Standard unfurled by the Covenanters of Scotland has not been + altogether forsaken. A devoted band of Christ's soldiers still remain + underneath its waving folds. Few, yet fearless, they hold the ground. + There they sustain, day and night, the attacks of the world, the flesh, + and the devil. Their position is ridiculed as impractical; they are + galled by the fire of deserters; they are assailed by the arguments of + statesmen; they are reproached by their own brethren; they are shelled + by Satan's heaviest guns. A thousand voices are shouting, "Abandon your + impracticable position. Come down; ye men of the Covenant, come down." + But the reply is returned in unfaltering tones, "We will not; we cannot. + These heights of righteousness have once been reached by three kingdoms; + they will yet return to the Lord and renew their Covenant, leading other + nations in triumphal procession. They are coming; they are coming. 'All + the kings of the earth shall praise thee O Lord, when they hear the + words of thy mouth; yea, they shall sing in the ways of the Lord: for + great is the glory of the Lord.'" +</p> +<p> + Alexander Henderson, who wrote the Solemn League and Covenant, displayed + therein statesmanship of the highest order. Great men are scarce who can + be compared with Henderson to advantage. Wellington, Nelson, Howard, + Gladstone, and Livingstone; these form a brilliant constellation; but + Henderson is bright as a morning star. He set the pace for the future + statesmen, who will yet lead the nations to God in Covenant and place + the crown of national homage on the head of Jesus Christ. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanter who abides by his Covenant is the truest patriot. The + greatest service that can be rendered to the country is the presentation + of God's ideal for nations. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. How long did the Solemn League and Covenant remain in force? +</p> +<p> + 2. What is its permanent use to the nations? +</p> +<p> + 3. What was the Covenanters' ideal for nations? +</p> +<p> + 4. Give the substance of the Solemn League and Covenant. +</p> +<p> + 5. What caused these nations to abandon the Covenant? +</p> +<p> + 6. Is the Covenant position still held by any? +</p> +<p> + 7. How is truest patriotism best displayed? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0021"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XVIII. +</h2> +<h3> + THE WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY.—A.D. 1643. +</h3> +<p> + The Covenanted Church is much indebted to the Westminster Assembly, for + its magnificent contributions to the Reformed religion. Presbyterian + Churches of every name have reaped rich harvests from the seed sown by + this Assembly. +</p> +<p> + Nothing has done more, if the Covenants be excepted, to give the + Covenanted Church decision, stability, permanence, spiritedness, and + undecaying strength, than the superlative formulas of truth produced by + this illustrious Assembly. Our inheritance received from their hands + should awaken our admiration for the men and our interest in their work. +</p> +<center> + ORIGIN. +</center> +<p> + This Assembly came into existence in peculiar times and for a remarkable + purpose. England was goaded to desperation by the despotism of King + Charles. As king of that nation and head of the Episcopal Church, he + attempted to stifle liberty and conquer conscience. He clashed with his + parliament in London. A great awakening had suddenly spread over all + England. New ideas of life electrified the people, and they arose in the + majesty of their inalienable rights to realize their ideals. The action + and reaction became terrible. The king and the parliament called out + their armies each against the other. England was plunged into a horrible + civil war. The parliament, perceiving that Episcopacy was the bulwark of + the king's tyranny and hostile to the interests of the people, attempted + to abolish that system of Church government. But this destructive act + necessitated a constructive work. Accordingly parliament, by an + ordinance, created an Assembly for settling the Government and Liturgy + of the Church of England." +</p> +<center> + CHARACTER OF THE MEMBERS. +</center> +<p> + The ordinance provided for an Assembly of "learned, Godly, and judicious + divines." Milton, while not in sympathy with their work, called this + "The Select Assembly." Baxter, another disapproving contemporary, said, + "that in his judgment the world, since the days of the apostles, had + never a Synod of more excellent divines than this and the Synod of + Dort." Abundant evidence certifies that in Westminster Hall, in those + days was seen a rare combination of native talent, classic learning, + sanctified conscience, spiritual illumination, and devotion to the truth + as revealed in the Word of God. +</p> +<center> + ENROLLMENT. +</center> +<p> + The complete number of members was 174, of which 142 were ministers, and + 32, elders. Of this + number, four ministers and two elders were commissioners from Scotland. + The Scottish delegation of divines were men mighty in the Scriptures and + powerful in debate. Their influence in making Scripture truths lucid, + and thereby directing the Assembly to right conclusions, was deeply felt + and cordially acknowledged. They declined to sit as regular members of + the Assembly, content with the humbler position of consultative members. + They would not by incorporation become responsible, personally or + representatively, for the deliverances of an Assembly selected and + erected by parliament. These Scotch ministers form a brilliant + constellation; let their names be written in capitals: +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="390"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0019"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_19.jpg" width="388" height="350" +alt="Westminster Assembly."> +<!--IMAGE END--> +<b>Westminster Assembly.</b><br/> +</center> +The Westminster Assembly met in London in 1643. The roll of members + contained 174 names, of which 142 were divines and 32 selected from + parliament. The Covenanters of Scotland were represented by 6 + commissioners, of whom 4 were ministers. This Assembly produced the + Confession of Faith, the Larger and Shorter Catechisms, the Directory + for Public Worship, and the Form of Church Government. These excellent + formulas of Divine truth are carefully compiled and finely polished, + and, being true to the Bible, they will scarcely ever be surpassed. +</td></tr></table> + +<pre> + ALEXANDER HENDERSON ROBERT BAILLIE + SAMUEL RUTHERFORD GEORGE GILLESPIE +</pre> +<p> + "And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, + and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and + ever." The Scottish elders were John Maitland and Archibald Johnston. + Maitland in after years renounced the Covenant and became a powerful foe + of the Covenanters. +</p> +<center> + ORGANIZATION. +</center> +<p> + The Assembly met according to the call, July 1, 1643, in the Church of + Westminster. Dr. William Twisse, President, preached the opening sermon + from Christ's precious promise, "I will not leave you comfortless." + These word's were as apples of gold in pictures of silver, in those + days of woeful distraction. One week later they met again, when the oath + was administered to every member present, in the following words: +</p> +<p> + "I,————, do seriously and solemnly protest, in the presence of + Almighty God, that in this Assembly, whereof I am a member, I will not + maintain anything in matters of doctrine, but what I think in my + conscience to be truth; or in point of discipline, but what I shall + conceive to conduce most to the glory of God, and the good and peace of + His Church." +</p> +<p> + This oath was read every Monday morning to refresh memory and revive + conscience. These men were working for the Kingdom of Christ, in the + presence of the great white Throne; its brightness was flashing + constantly upon their eyes. +</p> +<center> + THE WORK. +</center> +<p> + The work, to which the Assembly gave its attention, as specified by + parliament, was "(1) A Confession of Faith, (2) A Catechism, (3) A + Platform of Government, (4) A Directory for all Parts of Public + Worship." +</p> +<p> + The Confession of Faith: The first attempt was to revise the old creed + of the Church of England. This was abandoned at the Fifteenth Article. A + New Confession was then prepared having Thirty-three Articles, all of + which are pillars of truth, every one ponderous, polished, and precious, + revealing the quarry out of which they were hewn, and the skill of the + workmen by whom they were chiselled. Henderson has been credited with + the honor of preparing the first draft. +</p> +<p> + The Catechisms: The Shorter Catechism was prepared as a summary of + Biblical instruction, appealing even by its literary construction and + elegance to the heart and memory for lodgment. This golden chain is an + ornament of grace that should be worn by every son and daughter of the + Covenant. Rutherford seems to have been the original writer. The Larger + Catechism is an expansion of the Shorter. +</p> +<p> + The Form of Church Government: The Divine right of Presbyterianism + occasioned much discussion. The adoption of this principle was a deadly + blow struck at the theory of Episcopacy—official ranks, tier above + tier, in pyramidal form with the people beneath the pyramid. Equal + authority of ministers in the administration of the Gospel of Christ, + and equal authority of ministers and elders in administering government + in the House of God—these were the great truths announced by the + Assembly with clearness and solemnity, as the voice of God speaking in + the holy Scriptures. +</p> +<p> + The Directory for Public Worship: This Directory superseded the Liturgy. + The Liturgy had been condemned for "giving encouragement to an idle and + unedifying ministry, who had chosen rather to confine themselves to + forms, made to their hands, than to exert themselves in the gift of + prayer, which our Saviour furnishes all those He calls to that office." + A warm discussion arose concerning the mode of receiving the Lord's + Supper. "The communicants orderly and gravely sitting round the table," + was the expression adopted. Successive tables received sanction from + this expression. +</p> +<center> + PSALMODY. +</center> +<p> + Sir Francis Rouse, a member of the English Parliament, had recently + produced his Metrical Version of the Psalms. It was fresh and fragrant + and greatly admired. The Assembly after a careful revision adopted it. + Five years later, having passed through the purifying furnace of + revision at the hands of the General Assembly of Scotland, it was + authorized as "The only paraphrase of the Psalms of David to be sung in + the Kirk of Scotland." The New Version superseded the Old and took its + place in Divine worship on May 1, 1650, the day appointed for its + introduction by the Assembly. +</p> +<p> + The Westminster Assembly convened July 1, 1643, and adjourned February + 22, 1649, covering 5 years, 6 months, and 22 days, having held 1,163 + sessions. They met at nine o'clock in the morning and sat till three in + the afternoon. Each member received four shillings a day, and were fined + one shilling for absence. They kept a solemn fast monthly, at which + occasionally a single prayer lasted two hours. These men knew how to + pray. They became absorbed in prayer and talked with God while He + strengthened them to stand in His presence and receive His answer. +</p> +<p> + Such was the famous Assembly of Westminster divines. The magnitude of + their work can never be measured. Their building is imperishable. + Familiarity with these manuals of doctrine will deepen, broaden, + strengthen, and exalt the human mind. Herein the truth of Christ appears + in the symmetry, significance, magnitude, and omnipotence of a complete + system. One truth may take us to heaven, but the system of truth + treasured up in the heart, will bring heaven to us. Let us study the + system. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What event called the Westminster Assembly into being? +</p> +<p> + 2. What was the character of the members? +</p> +<p> + 3. How many were enrolled? +</p> +<p> + 4. Who were the Scottish commissioners? +</p> +<p> + 5. What was the oath of membership? +</p> +<p> + 6. What was the work assigned to the Assembly? +</p> +<p> + 7. How long did the Assembly sit? +</p> +<p> + 8. What benefit derived from the study of these manuals? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0022"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XIX. +</h2> +<h3> + DIVISION IN THE COVENANTED RANKS.—A.D. 1648. +</h3> +<p> + The 1638 Covenant produced gratifying results in the Presbyterian Church + of Scotland. She was revived, enlarged, strengthened, consolidated, and + fortified beyond precedent. Ten years of marvelous prosperity followed, + and yet she had no easy road to travel. She was still beset by dangers; + enemies were plotting her overthrow; wars were convulsing the country; + the external conditions were extremely adverse; yet she grew, waxed + mighty, and became irresistible in the work of the Gospel. The Church + honored the Lord in His holy Covenant, and He honored her with growth, + success, and victory in the presence of her foes. He was a wall of fire + round about her, and the glory in the midst thereof. These were years of + phenomenal power and splendor unto the Covenanted Church. +</p> +<p> + Then followed the gloaming. The evening of that prosperous day grew very + dark; the darkness increased for forty years; ten thousand midnights + seemed to have condensed their horrid blackness upon Scotland and her + prostrated Church. At length the storm of fire and blood exhausted + itself, but not till a whole generation had wasted away in the anguish + of that protracted persecution. The steps that led to the Church's + prostration and decimation, we may trace with profit; but as it is + crimsoned with the blood of the brave, and marked with many a martyr's + grave, the eye will oft be moist and the heart sick. +</p> +<p> + While the Church stood to her Covenant, she was like an impregnable + fortress, or an invincible army. While she held the truth tenaciously in + her General Assembly, presbyteries, and sessions, and applied it + effectively, she spread forth her roots like Lebanon. But when doubt and + fear, plans and policy, compromise and temporizing entered into her + councils, her gold became dim and her sword pewter. The Lord went not + with her armies into the battle, and they fainted and fell on the field. + A brief review is necessary to understand the situation. +</p> +<p> + The Solemn League and Covenant, in 1643, gave the Covenanted Church of + Scotland a mighty impetus in the right direction, but its effect for + good was brief. The League united the kingdoms of Scotland, England, and + Ireland; and the Covenant placed them under obligations to one another + and to God. These kingdoms were thereby exalted beyond measure in + privilege. The sacred bond had been prepared by the Joint Commission + that represented England and Scotland, the initial step having been + taken by the English Parliament. The king and the parliament were then + at strife. The dominating spirit of Charles, which harassed Scotland had + provoked hostility in England; the strength of that kingdom was nearly + equally divided between the two parties. The people of England, who + aspired after liberty and felt the throb of nobler manhood in their + pulse, had asked Scotland to combine forces against the oppressor. The + outcome was the Solemn League and Covenant which united their armies for + the conflict. +</p> +<p> + This sacred bond was adopted by the General Assembly of Scotland, the + English Parliament, and the Westminster Assembly of divines. Afterward + it received a prodigious number of signatures by the people in public + and private life, and became quite popular. These kingdoms were thereby + placed under solemn obligation conjointly to conserve the Reformed + religion in Scotland, to reform the religion of England and Ireland, and + to root out all systems of evil in Church and State. +</p> +<p> + Scotland was far in advance of the other two kingdoms in enlightenment + and liberty. The Covenanted Church had exalted the Lord Jesus as her + Head, and He had exalted her as the light, life, and glory of Scotland. + The vine had spread its branches from sea to sea. The two sisters were + far behind. She undertook to lift them up; the burden was too heavy; + they dragged her down. She was unequally yoked, and the yoke pushed her + astray. Doubtless there were reasons that justified the course she had + taken, but that course led her into a "waste and howling wilderness." +</p> +<p> + Scotland sent her army to help the English Reformers in their fight for + liberty. The soldiers coming from Covenanted homes, marched, as was + their custom, under the banner emblazoned with the inspiring-words: +</p> +<center> + FOR CHRIST'S CROWN AND COVENANT. +</center> +<p> + They were led by General Leslie. Victory followed victory until King + Charles, overwhelmed with defeat, rode into Leslie's camp in disguise + and surrendered as his prisoner. +</p> +<p> + What now shall be done with the royal captive? This was the question + which called for the wisdom of both nations. The Covenanters urged him + to subscribe the Covenant and return to his throne. He refused. They + pleaded, promising that their flag would lead the forces of Scotland in + his support. He yet refused. They prayed and entreated him with tears to + accept the Covenant and continue his reign. He would not. What could + they then do, but deliver him up to the English army, whose battles they + were fighting? +</p> +<p> + General Leslie led his command back to Scotland. It was disbanded, for + the land again had rest. The suspense, however, concerning the king was + painful. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="300"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0020"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_20.jpg" width="282" height="350" +alt="King Charles I."> +<b>King Charles I.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +King Charles I. came to the throne in 1625, and reigned over Scotland, + England, and Ireland, 24 years. His despotic will carried him into great + excesses of cruelty, and brought upon him mountains of trouble. In + Scotland the Covenanters firmly resisted his encroachment upon their + rights and liberties. He was beheaded by the English Parliament in + 1649. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The Scottish heart yet loved Charles. Though he was false, cruel, + treacherous, and tyrannical, the Covenanters were still devoted to him + as their own king. They prayed, took counsel, sent delegates, did + everything in their power to have him restored. All they asked was his + adherence to the Covenant, their national Constitution of government. + Let him subscribe to this, and Scotland's bravest sons will rally around + him; the Blue Banner will wave over him in bold defiance of every foe. + But he would not yield. +</p> +<p> + The king was now a prisoner in England. While he lay at Carisbrooke + Castle, the Earl of Lauderdale, a Covenanter of some eminence, + accompanied by the Earl of Lanark, was stealthily admitted into his + presence. These men succeeded in making a compromise. Lauderdale and + Lanark agreed to raise an army to bring the king back. The king in turn + agreed to confirm Presbyterianism for three years; the permanent form of + Church Government to be then determined by an assembly of divines, + assisted by twenty commissioners to be appointed by the king. This + private treaty is known in history as "The Engagement." It contained the + elements of a base and disastrous surrender of principle. + Presbyterianism on probation! Built upon the rock of truth, it lasts + while the rock endures. Presbyterianism to be succeeded by an + uncertainty? How could the Church entrust the government of God's house + to the king's commissioners? +</p> +<p> + When "The Engagement" became public, the Covenanted Church was plunged + into a debate that wrought havoc. The peaceful sea was struck with a + storm; the angry waves lashed every shore. The compromise failed, but + the Church was infected, weakened, rent, in twain, and for forty years + was unable to stand in the presence of her enemies. Henceforward there + were two parties: those who held to the Covenant, in its clearness, + fulness, pungent energy, and logical deductions; and those who trimmed, + modified, and compromised divine truth, for the sake of numerical + strength and temporal advantage. One party was governed by principle; + the other by expediency. The entering wedge was followed by other + wedges, until the glorious Church of Scotland was chopped and split, and + thrown about into endless disorder, +</p> +<pre> + "As wood which men do cut and cleave + Lies scattered on the ground." +</pre> +<p> + The Church of Jesus Christ may never traffic in the truth. The least + compromise of Gospel principle is treason against the King of heaven. + The terms offered to the world, while in rebellion against Christ, + should be those embodied in General Grant's famous + demand—"Unconditional Surrender." Anything less than this is treachery. + The truth of the Lord Jesus, which cost His blood in its purchase and + the blood of martyrs in its defence, should be maintained to the very + last shred, with the tenacity of unconquerable faith. Unfaithfulness in + the least degree may result in greatest disaster. Once a ship was cast + upon the rocks, and the lives of the passengers were jeopardized simply + because the compass varied, it was said, a millionth part of an inch. + It requires "hair-splitting" to measure a millionth part of an inch, and + in certain cases it is worth while. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What reaction followed the ten prosperous years after the Covenant of + 1638? +</p> +<p> + 2. Trace the cause of the great distress that befell the Church +</p> +<p> + 3. Why did Scotland aid England with her army? +</p> +<p> + 4. What were the results of the war? +</p> +<p> + 5. How did the Covenanters treat their captive king? +</p> +<p> + 6. What was the agreement known as "The Engagement?" +</p> +<p> + 7. How did it divide the Covenanted Church? +</p> +<p> + 8. What dangers arise from the surrender of truth? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0023"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XX. +</h2> +<h3> + CROWNING THE PRINCE.—A.D. 1651. +</h3> +<p> + The reign of Charles I. came to an unkingly end. The war between him and + the English Parliament resulted in his utter defeat. He delivered + himself up as a prisoner, and "because he mercy minded not but + persecuted still," mercy refused to spread her white wings over his + guilty soul. He was tried for treason by the British Parliament and + sentenced to death. The trial continued one week, during which the + recital of his misrule and cruel deeds must have intensely harrowed his + soul. He yielded up his life by laying his head upon the block to + receive the executioner's axe. One stroke did the fatal work. +</p> +<p> + The death of the king was not with the consent of the Covenanters; to + them it was a poignant grief. With all his faults they loved him still + as their king. Had he accepted the Solemn League and Covenant when a + prisoner in their hands, they would have been at his service to restore + his power and kingdom. They still hoped for his reformation, entreated + him to take the Covenant, and pointed him to a triumphal entry into + Edinburgh. They pleaded with the English Parliament to spare his life, + and sent commissioners to prevent his execution. Through his obstinacy + they failed. But that obstinacy he accounted kingly dignity and + inviolable honor. The Covenanters upon hearing of his tragic death + hastened to proclaim his eldest son king in his stead, granting him the + throne on condition of accepting the Solemn League and Covenant, and + ruling the kingdom according to its terms. He was a young man of + nineteen years; "a prince of a comely presence; of a sweet, but + melancholy aspect. His face was regular, handsome, and + well-complexioned; his body strong, healthy, and justly proportioned; + and, being of a middle stature, he was capable of enduring the greatest + fatigue." +</p> +<p> + Charles II. while emerging from his teens faced a golden future. The + providence of God spread before him prospects of greatness, honor, and + success, which the most exalted on earth might have envied. His heart in + its highest aspirations had not yet dreamed of the moral grandeur and + kingly possibilities, that were granted him when the Covenanters called + him to rule their kingdom. Even Solomon, accepting a crown at the same + age, was not more highly favored. Scotland at this time was exalted into + close relation with heaven; the National Covenant had lifted the kingdom + into alliance with God; the people had been emancipated from darkness, + Papacy, and Prelacy; the Gospel of Jesus Christ had overspread the land + with light. The Covenanted Church had flourished marvelously during the + last decade, notwithstanding the storms that swept her borders; her + branches veiled the mountains, and her fruit overhung the valleys; every + parish was adorned with a schoolhouse, and the cities with colleges. + What sublime possibilities for a king at the head of such a nation! Oh, + that the young prince might have a dream in the slumbers of the night + and see God! Oh, for a vision, a prayer, and a gift, that will fit him + for the glory-crested heights of privilege and power to which he has + been advanced! Charles II. failed, and fell from these heavens like + Lucifer. +</p> +<p> + The young king was crowned by the Covenanters January 1, 1651. The Crown + of Scotland, sparkling with precious stones deeply set in purest gold, + was his splendid New Year's gift. But the gift was more than a crown of + gold and precious stones; it was a symbol of the nation's power, wealth, + people, Covenant, honor, and high relation to God, entrusted to his + keeping. +</p> +<p> + The coronation took place in the dead of winter. The country was gowned + like a bride in white. But the white on this occasion was not the emblem + of purity; rather was it the pallor of icy death. The rigorous storms + seemed to prophesy of trouble; the very winds were rehearsing a dirge to + be plaintively sung over mountains and moors in the coming years. +</p> +<p> + A large assembly of Covenanters met at Scone for the crowning of the new + king. There was much enthusiasm, yet beneath it all there flowed a deep + undercurrent of doubt and fear. Rev. Robert Douglas preached the + coronation sermon. The king listened to deep, penetrating, practical + words from the Book of God. The Solemn League and Covenant was read. He + gave his assent to it with an overflow of vehemence. Archibald Campbell, + the Marquis of Argyle, a prominent Covenanter and statesman, then took + the crown in both hands, and, lifting it above the prince with great + solemnity, placed it upon his head, accompanying the act with an + appropriate exhortation. While the oath of office was being + administered, the prince kneeled in apparent humility, and lifted up his + right hand in a solemn appeal to God. At this point he uttered the awful + vow in the presence of the people: "By the Eternal and Almighty God, who + liveth and reigneth forever, I shall observe and keep all that is + contained in this oath." He also said: "I will have no enemies, but the + enemies of the Covenant—no friends, but the friends of the Covenant." + Thus King Charles II. became a radical Covenanter by profession and + protestation in the most solemn manner. Time proved his guilty + duplicity. +</p> +<p> + The English Parliament, after the execution of Charles I., had passed an + act making it treason to proclaim this prince king. The Covenanters, + having + thus elevated Charles to the throne, must now settle accounts with + England on the battlefield. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="300"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0021"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_21.jpg" width="299" height="350" +alt="Archbishop Sharp"> +<b>Archbishop Sharp</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +James Sharp was a young Covenanted minister in 1661, but withdrew from + the Covenanters and became a persecutor of the most virulent type. The + land could not bear his cruelties. He lost his life at the hands of a + few men, who had been goaded into desperation by his atrocities. He was + slain while driving across Magus moor in 1679. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Oliver Cromwell invaded Scotland with a strong force, determined to + unseat Charles. The Covenanters rallied in defence of their king. + Alexander Leslie was once more in command. The two armies were soon + facing each other, but hesitated to strike Both armies were made up of + soldiers of the cross; both had fought for the Solemn League and + Covenant; prayer ascended habitually from both camps; the singing of + Psalms aroused the heroic spirit in each. What wonder if they feared the + shock of battle! At length Leslie moved down from his advantageous + position, and Cromwell ordered an attack. The Covenanters were put to + flight with terrible slaughter. +</p> +<p> + Had the sweet singer of Israel been on the field after the clash of + arms, doubtless he would have repeated his wail: "How are the mighty + fallen, and the weapons of war perished!" The Covenanters defeated! How! + Why! Ah, there was an Achan in the camp. The king was already perfidious + in the Covenant. His perfidy had blighted the nation, and smitten the + army. Hitherto God had led the armies of the Covenanters; they had won + easy victories, and sometimes bloodless triumphs. But now the Lord turns + His back upon the banner unfurled for His Crown and Covenant. +</p> +<p> + The dread disaster-sent a wail through all Scotland. The grief was great + and the penitential searchings deep. The pious and prayerful inquired of + the Lord to know the cause of His wrath and the way of deliverance. The + eyes of many were opened to see the shadow of greater calamities + approaching. Argyle, Johnston, Rutherford, Gillespie, and others of + kindred spirit, saw in the last battle the stroke of the Lord for the + sins of the nation. The wrath of God, like a bolt of lightning, had + struck that field and thousands lay dead. Greater retributions were + coming; repentance alone could save the country. +</p> +<p> + The king attempted to rally his shattered forces. He raised his standard + at Stirling. His army was small; he wanted more men. Hitherto the army + had been recruited from the homes of Covenanters; the rank and file were + the resolute sons of the Covenant. The Scottish Parliament in bygone + years had made a law called the "Act of Classes", by which only those + who had taken the Covenant were eligible to office in the government, or + position in the army. The statesmanship of the Scottish fathers was + profound; their military wisdom was from above. Civil government is + God's gift to man. Why entrust it to other than His people? The military + power is to guard this trust. Why commit the guardianship to any but the + loyal servants of the Lord Jesus Christ? +</p> +<p> + The king had the Act of Classes repealed that he might increase his + army. He multiplied his regiments, but forgot "The sword of the Lord, + and of Gideon." Three hundred may be better than thirty thousand. He + accepted battle once more with Cromwell, suffered a terrible defeat, + escaped from the country and remained an exile nine years. All honor to + Gen. Leslie, and other faithful officers, who refused to serve after the + ranks had been filled with men who feared not God nor regarded His + Covenant! +</p> +<p> + Can we here find a lesson to lay upon our hearts? Covenanting with God + is, possibly, the highest privilege on earth; Covenant-breaking is, + possibly, the most dangerous sin. What can be worse? The + Covenant-breaker destroys much good; brings wrath upon himself, and + defeat, sorrow, and distress upon those whom he represents. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. How was the reign of King Charles I. ended? +</p> +<p> + 2. What effort on the part of the Covenanters to secure a successor? +</p> +<p> + 3. What were the prospects of the young prince? +</p> +<p> + 4. What brought ruin upon him? +</p> +<p> + 5. Why were the Covenanters now compelled to meet the English in battle? +</p> +<p> + 6. With what result? +</p> +<p> + 7. What was the "Act of Classes." +</p> +<p> + 8. Why was it repealed? +</p> +<p> + 9. What was the effect? +</p> +<p> + 10. What heinousness lies in Covenant-breaking? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0024"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXI. +</h2> +<h3> + A SIFTING TIME—A.D. 1653. +</h3> +<p> + We now enter the most serious period in the history of the Covenanters. + Hitherto we have been on the skirmish line. All we have yet reviewed has + been leading up to the desperate and sanguinary struggle, which lasted + twenty-eight years, costing treasures of blood and indescribable + suffering, yet finally resulting in the wealthy heritage of liberty, + enlightenment, and religion, which we now enjoy. +</p> +<p> + Oliver Cromwell, having defeated King Charles, ruled Scotland five + years. He was titled "Lord Protector", but in reality was a Dictator. + The government was centered more than ever in one man. Many strange + qualities blended in this austere autocrat, some of which command our + admiration. He was stern and painfully severe, yet much sagacity and + justice characterized his administration. During his sway of power the + Reformed Churches in his own realms and on the Continent were by him + heroically defended. He became, in the hand of the Lord, "the shadow of + a great rock in a weary land." The persecuted found shelter under his + shadow, in the providence of the Lord. He avenged the massacre of the + Protestants in Ireland, halted the persecution of Christians on the + Continent, and gave Rome the alternative, to cease the work of + slaughter, or listen to the thunder of his legions at her gates. +</p> +<p> + The Church of the Covenanters however had strange experience at the + hands of Cromwell. In a ruthless and despotic manner he dissolved the + General Assembly, put the Supreme Court of God's house out of existence + to appear no more for thirty-five years. The meeting previous to this + act of violence had been held in the mid-summer of 1653. The ministers + and elders had come from all parts of Scotland, to sit in counsel, or + rather in debate, concerning the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ. The + salubrious air and genial sky of Edinburgh united with, the sacred and + exhilarating interests of the Gospel to arouse all that was noble, and + divine in every heart. The Moderator reverently led the Assembly in + prayer and constituted the court most solemnly in the name of Jesus + Christ. Such a prayer should overwhelm the soul with God's presence, + burden the conscience with responsibilities, make the spiritual world + dreadfully visible, and bring God's servants close to His throne of + judgment. +</p> +<p> + The Assembly had met last year in this prayerful and solemn mariner, but + the business of the Lord Jesus soon degenerated into an acrid, harmful + discussion, that lasted two weeks and ended in confusion. The debate + evidently was now to be renewed with the additional bitterness and + vehemence that had accumulated during the ensuing year. The ministers + and elders having convened, the regular business was under way, when + suddenly the Assembly witnessed what was unexpected—a regiment of + soldiers in the churchyard. Cromwell had sent them. The soldiers, in + bright uniform and bristling with swords and guns, struck amazement into + the hearts of the delegates. The colonel ordered them to leave the + house. They walked out in front of the soldiers and, being escorted + beyond the city limits, were sent home, not to return, under pain of + punishment. +</p> +<p> + The General Assembly had fallen into a state of bitter strife—the snare + of Satan. There were two parties and these were quite well balanced. + Their power for good was greatly neutralized by one another; their + influence for harm was incalculable; the baneful effect spread like a + withering shadow over the land. The two parties, at the beginning, + chiefly differed in the methods employed to accomplish the same end. The + one was governed by expediency; the other by principle. Expediency drew + the majority; principle held the remainder. The majority discounted the + obligations of the Covenant; the minority held to the spirit and letter + of the sacred bond. The party in power precipitated the direful + conditions. This they did by repeated breaches of the Covenant. The + responsibility for the disgraceful proceedings, and the shameful + termination of the Assembly, must be attached to these who made the + discussion a moral necessity. +</p> +<p> + The first shadow that darkened the General Assembly was the discussion + of "The Engagement." Two unscrupulous men—one of them a Covenanter—had + made a secret engagement with Charles I. in his captivity. They had + promised to seat him, if possible, again on his throne; he in turn had + engaged to favor Presbyterianism three years. The Engagement aroused + earnest and violent discussion in the Assembly. The element of strife + had now entered the Supreme Court of God's House, and the downward trend + was deplorably rapid. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="290"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0022"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_22.jpg" width="280" height="350" +alt="King Charles II."> +<b>King Charles II.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +King Charles II. ascended the throne in 1651, but was soon defeated and + driven from the country by Oliver Cromwell. In 1660 his kingdom and + power were restored and he reigned till 1685. His death was sudden and + mysterious, poisoning by his brother, the Duke of York, having been + suspected. He died at the age of fifty-five. He was called the "Merry + Monarch," though his reign was characterized by atrocious cruelty. Under + him the persecution waxed so violent that some of these years were + called "The Killing Times." +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The next vexation was the abolition of "The Act of Classes." The Act of + Classes guarded all places of trust in the government and army. None but + those who expressed sympathy with the National Covenant were eligible to + places of trust. Here was an unparalleled state of civil affairs; the + world had never seen the like. This was a marvelous stride toward the + Millennium. The fathers are worthy of all praise for this unprecedented + effort to build the national government upon the true foundation of + God's will, and administer it by men in Covenant with Jesus Christ, + the KING OF KINGS. This was the first attempt to erect a Christian + government, in which the fear of God should pervade every department and + characterize every official. The abolition of the Act of Classes + involved a great moral issue which the General Assembly had to meet. + Strangely, the Assembly was divided in the discussion; the debate waxed + vehement and bitterly passionate. The majority favored abolition, thus + opening the flood-gates of moral laxity in official stations. These were + called "Resolutioners", because they offered the resolution to this + effect, and supported it: the minority were called "Protesters", because + they protested against it. +</p> +<p> + The discussion continued year after year till all other interests in the + General Assembly were overshadowed. The voice of the Church, once + powerful in guiding public issues, was now despised; the tones were + guttural, sepulchral, alarming, making the blood run in chills. Then + came Cromwell and snuffed the Assembly out like a candle. It was sending + forth ill—odored smoke and but little light. Are we surprised that God + permitted him to quench the noisome spark? +</p> +<p> + The Protesters stood for all that the Covenant embodied. The Covenant + lay heavy upon their conscience; they trembled at its violation. They + saw in the breach of the Covenant the wrath of God against themselves, + against the Church, and against the nation. They believed that nothing + could compensate for the loss incurred by forsaking the Covenant. They + trusted in God with absolute faith; would not resort to expediency for + any purpose; temporized with no principle, no, not for greatest + advantages. They knew that God could send peace, victory, and prosperity + to their country through the Covenant; and that He would send defeat, + distress, and desolation through the breach of it. +</p> +<p> + The Resolutioners grew more and more lax. They may have dreaded to be + termed narrow-minded; they may have sought to be reputed broad and + charitable. They weakened in morals and influence, and lost power and + position when tried by the fires of persecution. They finally melted + away and disappeared among the enemies of the Covenant, as snowflakes + falling on the mire. +</p> +<p> + The Protesters were the Covenanters who continued with the Lord Jesus + Christ in His temptation. When the Covenant called for martyrs, they + were the martyrs. When the cause of Christ demanded witnesses, they were + the witnesses. They gave their testimony with a clear voice, and sealed + it with their blood. These are they whose crimson path we will now + follow, our Lord Jesus permitting, till we come to the last of + Scotland's honored roll—the pleasant, youthful, innocent James Renwick. +</p> +<p> + God requires His Church to receive, proclaim, and defend the truth, the + whole truth, and nothing but the truth, as it is in the Lord Jesus + Christ. This obligation is weighty, and the duty is difficult, yet no + release is granted. The Church that holds most truth should draw most + people; the Church that abandons any truth for any reason must be + unsatisfying to honest souls. The organization that embodies the largest + measure of God's Word is the largest Church; that which contains the + smallest is the least. "Whosoever therefore shall break one of these + least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least + in the kingdom of heaven." These are the words of Jesus. In His sight a + Church is measured, not by the number enrolled, but by the truth + professed, incarnated, and proclaimed. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. How long did Oliver Cromwell rule Scotland? +</p> +<p> + 2. How did he deal with the Covenanted Church? +</p> +<p> + 3. How had the General Assembly previously deteriorated? +</p> +<p> + 4. Give the downward steps. +</p> +<p> + 5. What two parties henceforth in the Church? +</p> +<p> + 6. By whom was the truth preserved? +</p> +<p> + 7. What principle governs the true followers of Christ? +</p> +<p> + 8. What distinguishes the largest Church? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0025"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXII. +</h2> +<h3> + AN ILLUSTRIOUS MARTYR.—A.D. 1660. +</h3> +<p> + Archibald Campbell, the Marquis of Argyle, was the first martyr to + suffer at the hand of King Charles II. Twenty-two years had this + illustrious nobleman been in special training for the honors of a + martyr. He became identified with the Covenanters at the General + Assembly of 1638. From that time he brought his influence, wealth, + power, and office into the service of his Covenant Lord, and grew mighty + in the cause of God. He ripened early in convictions and hallowed + experiences, which won for him the highest distinction conferred upon + mortals—martyrdom. He was in the prime of his years, at the summit of + his earthly career, when he gave his life for the cause of Christ. He + was a true warrior; every drop of his blood was electrified with + heroism. In meeting death he felt the military spirit throb, but + suppressing it he calmly said, "I could die as a Roman, but choose to + die as a Christian." +</p> +<p> + This was a cedar of Lebanon, a choice tree of God, distinguished for its + grace, strength, and height, towering above the trees of the forest. + Therefore the first blast struck it with such deadly force. Then + descended the terrific storm upon the lesser trees, and the mountain of + God's house was strewn with them. The next twenty-eight years were + filled with lamentation, and mourning, and woe. Let us look at the + condition of the Covenanted Church, as this age of horror settles down + upon Scotland. +</p> +<p> + When Cromwell had reduced Scotland, he attempted to convert the + Covenanted Church to Congregationalism. Though he possessed some amiable + qualities, yet this ignoble work was attempted in the spirit of a + Turk—with the Bible in one hand and the sword in the other. A + resolution in favor of Congregationalism was introduced in the General + Assembly of 1652. This was voted down. The military suppression of the + Assembly at its next meeting was Cromwell's bitter revenge. Yet we must + not fail to see the hand of God in the overthrow of the Supreme Court of + His House. As with the Temple at Jerusalem before its destruction, this + Temple was already desolate; the glory had departed ere the storm of + Divine wrath smote it. The resolution of the "Resolutioners," some years + previous, favoring the repeal of the "Act of Classes," was a gross + violation of the Covenant, and the proceedings in the Assembly had + thereby degenerated into bitter debate. The Assembly had lost its power + for good and, therefore, its right to exist; this part of the golden + candlestick had exhausted its oil and God removed the useless part. +</p> +<p> + The Church did not seem to be seriously affected by the abolition of the + Assembly. The process was more like the removal of a tumor than of a + vital organ. God can do without the most excellent parts of the Church's + organization, when they become diseased and endanger the system with + blood poisoning. During the rule of Cromwell, the subordinate courts + were mostly unmolested. The synods flourished; the presbyteries were + uninterrupted in their work; the congregations enjoyed quietness and + refreshing. The strife that existed in the Church was chiefly among the + shepherds, not among the sheep. There were 14 synods, 68 presbyteries, + and 900 congregations, when the persecution began under King Charles II. +</p> +<p> + During Cromwell's administration the land had rest; unusual quietness + prevailed among the clans; there was a great calm. The four angels were + holding the four winds of the earth, till the servants of God were + sealed in their foreheads. The people were diligent in waiting upon the + Lord; the Holy Spirit fell upon them with power, they became intensely + interested in the ordinances of grace. They clustered around the family + altar, through the House of God, hallowed the Sabbath, observed the + Sacraments, and tarried much in secret prayer. Thus they were + unwittingly preparing to enter the dreadful cloud. The vine was taking + deep root, anticipating the storm that was in the air. +</p> +<p> + When Cromwell died the public mind experienced a strange reaction. The + politicians of the two kingdoms, Scotland and England, reverting from + the severe discipline of the "Protector," launched into every excess of + luxuriousness and dissipation. A cry for the return of the profligate + king swept the country from London to Edinburgh. Even the Covenanters + were loud in calling for the banished monarch. They determined not to be + last in bringing back the king. They would, however, renew their + allegiance to him only on condition that he would renew the Covenant + with them. From France, where he had found an asylum, came his + captivating reply, "I am a Covenanted king." He was received with + enthusiastic demonstrations. +</p> +<p> + King Charles organized his government in Scotland by immediately placing + in power the most virulent enemies of the Covenanters. Within one month + they were ready to execute whomsoever they would. The Earl of Middleton + was the head official. When off his guard by indulging in drink, he + divulged the king's secret instructions, confessing that he had been + commissioned to do three things: (1) Rescind the Covenant; (2) Behead + Argyle; (3) Sheath every man's sword in his brother's breast. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="430"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0023"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_23.jpg" width="425" height="350" +alt="Argyle's Daughter Pleading"> +<b>Argyle's Daughter Pleading</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Argyle had two daughters, Anne and Mary. The young king, after having + engaged to marry Anne, forsook her. She became despondent and lapsed + into insanity. Mary, after her father's martyrdom, went to Middleton, + the king's commissioner, and on her knees begged the privilege of taking + her father's head down from the Netherbow Port, a gate of the city, to + bury it with the body. She was refused. Middleton, pointing her to the + door, rudely asked her to leave his presence in haste. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Argyle in those days was one of the great men of Scotland, if not the + greatest. He was recognized in the Council as overshadowing his + associates, in personal excellence, public-spiritedness, + trustworthiness, and executive ability. He was a fine scholar, masterly + statesman, wealthy landlord, brave soldier, and faithful Covenanter. His + magnificent estate lay in Argyleshire, where the mountains are fringed + with lochs in the most picturesque manner. The scenery is charming. One + summer evening as our ship passed along the broken coast, a sunset of + surpassing beauty scattered its blending colors in rich profusion over + clouds, hills, vales, and lochs. The scenery was panoramic and + enchanting. But greater gorgeousness than a thousand sunsets fell upon + the outlook, at the remembrance of the famous Argyle, himself and his + wife and children; his home, hearth, altar, Covenant, and martyrdom What + incomparable grandeur where such hallowed associations throw their + colors! +</p> +<p> + When Charles had first been placed on the throne, ten years previous, + Argyle had the honor of setting the crown upon his head. The king at + that time feigned great friendship and respect for him. He sought, and + received, counsel from Argyle in apparent meekness and with evident + appreciation. On one occasion he remained nearly all night with him in + prayer, for preparation and fitness to rule the kingdom. He even sought + Argyle's daughter in marriage. Such was the former intimacy of the king + with Argyle. But once again on the throne, he determined to crush the + Covenanters, and Argyle was his first victim. +</p> +<p> + When Cromwell was conquering Scotland, Argyle fought him till further + resistance was useless. He even then refused to sign the declaration of + submission, but agreed to keep the peace. This agreement with Cromwell + was the main charge preferred against Argyle. He was tried and + convicted. The sentence was passed upon him on Saturday; he was executed + on the following Monday. He eloquently defended himself. It was a scene + highly tragical—this calm, innocent, dignified man, looking into the + face of his accusers and over-awing them with his bold vindication, and + pathetic appeal for justice. Kneeling down he received his sentence, + which was death by decapitation, his head to be placed above one of the + city gates, as a gruesome warning to all Covenanters. Argyle arose from + his knees and, looking upon his judicial murderers, calmly said, "I had + the honor to set the crown on the king's head, and now he hastens me to + a better crown than he owns." The real cause of his death was his + devotion to the Covenant, and the solemn admonitions he had tendered the + king. +</p> +<p> + His wife, hearing of the decree of death, hastened to his prison. "They + have given me till Monday to be with you," said he. The stricken woman + was overcome. "The Lord will require it; the Lord will + require it;" said she in tumultuous grief. "Forbear, forbear!" replied + Argyle, "for I truly pity them: they know not what they do." He was + filled with inexpressible joy at the thought of honoring Christ with his + blood The fear of death was gone Heaven was so near; glory was ready to + break upon him; the Lord was soon to be seen face to face. He went to + his execution like a prince to his coronation This was the Stephen of + that age, and this the persecution that scattered the Covenanters. +</p> +<p> + We are soft and puny for lack of hardships. The difficult places and + dreaded conditions, through which Christians pass, make life strong, + sublime, triumphant, fruitful in good work, resourceful in the Holy + Spirit, and glorifying to God. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS +</center> +<p> + 1 Who was Marquis Argyle? +</p> +<p> + 2 What service had he formerly rendered the king? +</p> +<p> + 3 Describe the return of the king from banishment. +</p> +<p> + 4 How did the Covenanters receive him? +</p> +<p> + 5 What was the nature of the government he established? +</p> +<p> + 6 What was his attitude toward the Covenanters? +</p> +<p> + 7 Who was his first victim? +</p> +<p> + 8 Describe Argyle's trial and execution. +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0026"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXIII. +</h2> +<h3> + RESISTING UNTO BLOOD.—A.D. 1661. +</h3> +<p> + King Charles had put Argyle to death. The head of the martyred nobleman + had been placed above the prominent gate, called the Netherbow Port of + Edinburgh. There it remained four years, meeting the public gaze in the + glare of day and in the gloom of night. And yet the sight had its + charms. The broad brow and beneficent countenance still retained the + expression of goodness and greatness. The sun-browned features and the + wind-shaken locks, the motionless face and silent lips, made a touching + appeal to the passers-by as they filed through the gateway. Many hearts + were softened, many eyes were moistened, many serious thoughts were + awakened. +</p> +<p> + The death of Argyle only fired the ferocious spirit of the king. The + tiger had tasted blood; now he must drink deeply of the crimson flood + and satiate his cruel heart. With vengeful hatred he reached for Samuel + Rutherford, the venerable minister of Anwoth. Neither feeble health nor + grey hairs could elicit, the king's compassion. A rock never pulsates + with kindness. But ere the officer could lay his hand upon this man of + God, his Lord and Master took him home to heaven. +</p> +<p> + James Guthrie of Stirling, a distinguished minister of Christ, was the + next upon whom the king set his cruel eyes. He was seized and thrust + into prison to await trial for "high treason." High treason! What was + high treason in those days? What had Guthrie done to merit the king's + mortal displeasure? Here is the sum of his crimes: +</p> +<p> + James Guthrie had preached, spoken, written, voted, and protested + against the "Resolution" and the "Resolutioners," because they had + approved of the suspension of the Moral Test for office. +</p> +<p> + He had written and published a message to the nation, entitled "The + Causes of God's Wrath", pointing out the many breaches of the Covenant, + and pleading for repentance. +</p> +<p> + He had declined the king's authority, when cited to be tried for + ministerial services which his enemies accounted treasonable. +</p> +<p> + He had advocated Christ's supremacy over the Church and over the nation, + and had disputed the king's authority in ecclesiastical matters. +</p> +<p> + For pursuing this course of action, James Guthrie was charged with "high + treason." But the rudest terms of the world and the basest charges made + by men are often turned into heaven's fairest badges. The iron chains + that manacled Rutherford he called "gold"; he called his prison "The + King's Palace." +</p> +<p> + How could Guthrie have done otherwise, as a faithful minister of Christ + Jesus, in the high calling of the Gospel? Was he not responsible for the + honor of the Church? Was he not entrusted with the truth and claims and + glory of Christ? Was he not accountable for the souls that waited on his + ministry? +</p> +<p> + Guthrie had an exalted view of the Gospel ministry. He had the eagle's + eye to take in a wide horizon, and the lion's heart to meet dangers and + difficulties. He took his instructions from the Lord, and stood above + the fear of man. He lived with the open Bible in his hand; his soul + delighted in the deep, broad sublime truths of salvation. The ministers + of the Covenant in those days dwelt in the bosom of Jesus Christ, + breathed His spirit, saw His glory, pulsated with His love, and were + irresistibly carried forward in the discharge of the duties of their + high office. They served as the ambassadors of the King of heaven. Only + by dishonoring their office, vitiating their conscience, shrivelling + their manhood, disowning their Lord, and imperiling their souls, could + Christ's ministers do less than James Guthrie had done. Yet he was + charged with "high treason." +</p> +<p> + The trial was set for April 11, 1661. Guthrie came before the tribunal, + full of peace and comfort. He answered for himself in a masterly + speech. His pleading was deeply felt; some members of the court arose + and walked out, saying, "We will have nothing to do with the blood of + this righteous man." +</p> +<p> + He was urged to retract. He was offered a high office in the Episcopal + Church if he would accede to their terms. Such inducements he held in + contempt. Neither threat nor reward could weaken his loyalty to the Lord + Jesus Christ and the Covenant. The closing sentence of his defence was + tender, fearless, and sublime: +</p> +<p> + "My lords, my conscience I cannot submit; but this old crazy body and + mortal flesh I do submit, to do with it whatever ye will, whether by + death, or banishment, or imprisonment, or anything else; only I beseech + you to ponder well what profit there is in my blood. It is not the + extinguishing of me, or many others, that will extinguish the Covenant + and the work of Reformation. My blood, bondage, or banishment will + contribute more for the propagation of these things, than my life or + liberty could do, though I should live many years." +</p> +<p> + The death sentence was passed upon him. He was condemned to be hanged, + his head to be placed above the city gate beside Argyle's. He received + the sentence with great composure. The execution was fixed for the first + day of June. To those who sat in judgement on his case, he replied: +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="300"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0024"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_24.jpg" width="287" height="350" +alt="James Guthrie."> +<b>James Guthrie.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Guthrie was an eminent minister of Christ, and valiant defender of the + Covenant, in the reign of King Charles II. He was the second victim + sacrificed to the king's rage against the Covenanters. On the day of his + execution he wrote a very touching letter to his wife. One quotation: + "My heart, I commend you to the eternal love of Jesus Christ. Pray for + me while I am here, and praise with me hereafter. God be with you!" He + died on the scaffold June 1, 1661. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + "My lords, let this sentence never affect you more than it does me; and + let my blood never be required of the king's family." +</p> +<p> + In such cases doubtless the wife through sympathy is the greater + sufferer. But Mrs. Guthrie was strong in the Lord, and had courage equal + to her trials. She was her husband's faithful helper in the difficult + places. Once when duty imperiled his life, and he was in danger of + halting, she urged him on, saying, "My heart, what the Lord gives you + light and clearness to do, that do." Noble words! nothing wiser or + greater could come from consecrated lips. +</p> +<p> + Just before his death Guthrie was permitted to see his son, Willie, at + that time five years old. The father tenderly fondled his child, so soon + to become an orphan, and spoke words adapted to the innocent heart. So + little did the child comprehend the terrible tragedy, that he could + scarcely be restrained from playing on the street while his father was + dying. But the meaning soon dawned upon him with melancholy effect. It + is said that he never played again. +</p> +<p> + The execution was public and the streets were thronged. Guthrie mounted + the scaffold with a cheerful spirit. He spoke with great deliberation + and earnestness for one hour to the immense throng that crowded close to + hear his last words. He then yielded himself to the executioner, who + placed the death cap over his face. But, as the light of that + bright June day was shut out from his eyes, a vision of entrancing joy + seemed to break upon his soul. In that flash of inspiration he saw + Scotland: The land was covered with the glory of Christ; peace filled + all her borders, and prosperity crowned her industries; churches and + schools adorned her hills and valleys; the mountains and moors were + filled with devout worshipers; the Sabbath poured forth its weekly + blessings; the Psalms arose with solemn music in praise to the Lord + Jesus. The Covenanted Reformation, in that vision, was triumphant. + Lifting the cap from his eyes, he exclaimed with the rapture of a + prophet, and with the shout of a conqueror: +</p> +<p> + "The Covenants, the Covenants shall yet be Scotland's reviving." +</p> +<p> + Thus he died in the full assurance of victory. His head was affixed over + the gate, where it remained many years. The sun bronzed the face, the + storms smote it, the rains drenched it, the snows dashed against it, the + winds swirled the white locks, the stars looked down in silence, the + people looked up in sadness, but James Guthrie was heedless of all. The + soul was mingling with the redeemed in heaven and rejoicing in the + presence of God. Guthrie had gone home to be forever with the Lord. +</p> +<p> + Little Willie often came and sat near the gate, gazing up at the silent + motionless head. He would stay there till night veiled the sombre + features of his father. He seemed to be communing with the spirit that + now lived above the stars. +</p> +<p> + "Where have you been, Willie?" his mother would say, on his return. "I + have been looking at father's head," he would sadly reply. The intense + strain sapped his vitality and he died in early manhood. +</p> +<p> + Have we a conscience like that of the Covenanted fathers? a conscience + that cannot submit to a man? a conscience that can take instructions + only from God? The surrender of conscience to man imperils the soul. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. How did Argyle's death seem to affect the king? +</p> +<p> + 2. Whom did he seize next? +</p> +<p> + 3. What charge was preferred against Guthrie? +</p> +<p> + 4. What was the nature of that "high treason?" +</p> +<p> + 5. How did he defend himself in court? +</p> +<p> + 6. What sentence did he receive? +</p> +<p> + 7. How did he reply? +</p> +<p> + 8. Relate an incident about his wife; his child. +</p> +<p> + 9. What was his death cry? +</p> +<p> + 10. What lesson here regarding a pure conscience? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0027"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXIV. +</h2> +<h3> + SOURCE OF THE COVENANTERS' POWER.—A.D. 1661. +</h3> +<p> + The death of Marquis Argyle was the signal for the utter overthrow of + the Covenanted Church in Scotland. He was chief among the nobles who in + those days stood by the Covenant, and James Guthrie was chief among the + ministers. These mighty men quickly followed each other in watering + God's vineyard with their own blood. +</p> +<p> + The issue now between the king and the Covenanters was clear, direct, + unmistakable, beyond the possibility of evasion. Both parties set + themselves for the desperate struggle; henceforth compromise was out of + the question. +</p> +<p> + The king was determined to abolish the Covenant, obliterate + Presbyterianism, establish Episcopacy, and assume to himself the place, + power, and prerogatives of the Lord Jesus Christ, as head of the Church. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters disputed his right to these pretentious claims at every + point. Especially did they challenge his authority over the Church, and + testify against his blasphemous presumption. They looked with horror + upon his attempt to grasp the crown of Christ, that he himself might + wear it. This they resented and resisted as treason against the KING OF + KINGS. They could not submit to the man who clothed himself with + Christ's supremacy; that robe of royal priesthood must not be worn by + mortal man. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters grew very spirited and fearless in defence of the + independence of the Church. When these two leaders, Argyle and Guthrie, + had been sacrificed, their enemies doubtless thought the people would be + as sheep scattered upon the mountains without a shepherd. But the Good + Shepherd was ever with them and gave them faithful ministers, who fed + the flock amidst their wintry desolations. The Covenanted Church had + noble sons to lift up the head of their fainting mother even when + persecution was at its worst. +</p> +<p> + The Church of Christ was very dear to these Covenanters. They gazed with + rapturous eyes upon her high origin, her mysterious character, her + indescribable glory. She dwelt in the very heart of God; she was the + Bride of the Son of God; she was clothed with the righteousness of God; + she was adorned with all the excellencies of character God could lavish + upon her. The Church was the habitation of the Holy Spirit. The Covenant + was the marriage bond joining her to her Lord and Husband. The love of + the Covenanters for the Church of the Lord Jesus arose in flames of + jealousy when they saw a mere man, a dissolute and sinful man, attempt + to woo her heart and alienate her affections from her Lord and King. + They could not endure it. Her honor and purity were worth more to them + than life itself. +</p> +<p> + The testimony of the Covenanters against the wrongs done the Church was + both pathetic and vehement, ranging all the way from tender tearful + supplication, to pointed fearless denunciation. At times they spoke with + meekness and hope, as if standing on the Mount of Beatitudes; again with + severity and sadness, as if the voice came from the fiery summit of + Sinai. Their eloquence in the sacred office matched the tenderness of + the dove and the terribleness of thunder; distilled like the dewdrop and + smote like pointed lightning. The sword of burnished steel they wielded + to good purpose in self-defence, and the sword of the Word they used + with telling effect in the spiritual warfare for their Lord and His + Church. +</p> +<p> + The strength which the Covenanters possessed and employed in battling + for the rights of the Church, and the prerogatives of their Lord, amazes + the contemplative mind. Their power was always sufficient, new every + morning, fresh every hour, inexhaustible under most excessive strains, + and mighty to win moral victories everywhere. Whence the power? What was + its source? +</p> +<p> + Explain as we may the fortitude, inspiration, enthusiasm, exalted + purpose, indestructible hope, and unconquerable faith of the + Covenanters under the cruel treatment and prolonged persecution they + endured, we must reach the conclusion that their strength lay in their + Covenanted union with the Lord Jesus Christ. Being thus united, the + God's strength was theirs. +</p> +<p> + Their Covenant they cherished with holy awe; its sacredness lay heavy + upon their hearts. It lifted the conscience up into the presence of God. + His throne of judgment was continually flashing its brightness upon + their eyes. A deep consciousness of God's presence, power, and approval, + grew upon them. The dreadful majesty of God overawed them. The + sacrificial love of Jesus Christ set their hearts on flames. The Bible + to them was teeming with promises, shining with doctrines, and terrible + with fiery warnings. They walked on the border line, being often times + even more in the other world than in this. The glory of the Lord fell + upon them, till some of them were compelled to cry out, "Withhold, Lord; + it is enough." Their trials drove them into the arms of their Father; + and, oh, how sweet it was to lie on His bosom when cold and hungry, + weary and sobbing, amidst the sorrows of this world! +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="240"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0025"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_25.jpg" width="239" height="350" +alt="The Grassmarket."> +<b>The Grassmarket.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +The Grassmarket was the place where many martyrs were executed. The spot + where the gallows stood is now marked by a circular pavement on the + street. Here Cargill ascended the ladder, saying that he had less + disturbance of mind than when he was ascending the pulpit. From this + grim elevation the martyrs made many a touching address, as they uttered + their last words, and bade farewell to earth and welcome to heaven. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + But was this the happy condition of many, or merely of a few, in those + days of sad adversity? How with the 100,000 Covenanters while suffering + in their homes, or roaming through the mountains, or hiding in the + caves? We have a record of a few only, but + we are persuaded that many others enjoyed an equal portion of the + abounding love of Christ. The promise of God is ever sure: "As thy days, + so shall thy strength be." Terrible days insure extraordinary strength. + The Lord had a great harvest in those times, ministers and people, men + and women, parents and children—a generation of honored worthies. +</p> +<p> + Samuel Rutherford was one of that mighty host. His life reveals the + secret and source of the Covenanter's strength. He was a small man, not + built to endure hardships. He was of a fair complexion, denoting + gentleness and a tender heart. He was roughly tossed from his earliest + years upon the billows of trouble. An invalid wife claimed his kindliest + attention and received it with utmost care. The children were laid in + short graves, one after another till only a little daughter remained. + The persecutor drove him from home, and Church, and people, to live an + exile in an unfriendly city. At the age of sixty-one, the wrath of King + Charles fell upon him and his life was demanded, but God sheltered him + from the gallows. +</p> +<p> + Through all these trials the heart of this little fair man, with shrill + voice, rapid step, and quick eye, was ever an overflowing well of joy + and praise. He seemed to live in the very heart of God, walked + hand-in-hand with Jesus Christ, and was continually wrapped in the + flames of holiest love. It is said that he rose at three in the morning + to have five hours of prayer and study of the Word in preparation for + the day's work. He seemed to be always among his flock, yet was he ever + ready for the pulpit. +</p> +<p> + This minister, like his blessed Master, could be seen, early and late, + "leaping upon the mountains, and skipping upon the hills," in his + eagerness to visit his people who were scattered widely over the + country. +</p> +<p> + As he walked, his head was erect and his face heavenward; his eyes were + feasting on the glory above the sky. His musings cast him into + transports of joy in Christ. His Covenant with God exalted his soul into + sweetest familiarity with the Lord. The Holy Spirit came upon him in + great power and with superabundance of gifts. +</p> +<p> + Rutherford, having a high-keyed voice, was a poor speaker; but that did + not prevent him from holding multitudes spell-bound. They came from afar + to hear him tell of the love of Christ. He gazed upon visions of + Christ's loveliness, arose in raptures of joy as he discoursed on + Christ's glory, and seemed at times as if he would fly out of the pulpit + in his animation. He was so full of life, of power, of heaven, of glory, + and of God, that his words and thoughts and teachings were pictures, + revelations, inspirations, apocalypses, scenes in the eternal world, + glimpses of the glory of Immanuel and Immanuel's land. +</p> +<p> + Here are some of his spiritual chromos as they took color and language + from his soul: +</p> +<p> + "My one joy, next to the flower of my joys, Christ, was to preach my + sweetest, sweetest Master, and the glory of His kingdom. +</p> +<p> + "I would beg lodging, for God's sake, in hell's hottest furnace, that I + might rub souls with Christ. +</p> +<p> + "Were my blackness and Christ's beauty carded through other, His beauty + and holiness would eat up my filthiness. +</p> +<p> + "Christ's honeycombs drop honey and floods of consolation upon my soul; + my chains are gold." +</p> +<p> + When Rutherford was on his deathbed, his enemies sent for him to stand + trial for treasonable conduct. His treasonable conduct was his fearless + preaching of the Gospel and heralding the royal glory of Christ, which + included severest denunciation of the king's arrogant claim of authority + over the Church. He replied, "Tell them I have got a summons already + before a Superior Judge, and I behoove to answer my first summons; and + ere your day come, I will be where few kings and great folks come." As + he lay dying, he opened his eyes, and his familiar vision of Christ and + the world of glory breaking upon him with unclouded luster, he + exclaimed: "Glory, glory in Immanuel's land." With this outburst of joy + on his lips, he joined the white-robed throng to take up the heavenly + song. +</p> +<p> + The same source of strength is yet available. Power comes through holy + familiarity with God, personal relation to Christ, and the indwelling of + the Holy Spirit. Are we full of power in the Lord's service? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What event intensified the issue between the king and the + Covenanters? +</p> +<p> + 2. Wherein lay the moral strength of the Covenanters? +</p> +<p> + 3. How did they show their love for the Church of Christ? +</p> +<p> + 4. What aroused their jealousy for the Church? +</p> +<p> + 5. How numerous were the Covenanters at this time? +</p> +<p> + 6. Give the character of Rutherford as a typical Covenanter. +</p> +<p> + 7. Quote some of his sayings. +</p> +<p> + 8. Relate his triumphant death. +</p> +<p> + 9. On what condition may we expect to be strong in the Lord? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0028"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXV. +</h2> +<h3> + EXPELLING THE MINISTERS.—A.D. 1662. +</h3> +<p> + "The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church." In the martyrdom + of Argyle and Guthrie blood of the best quality had been shed, and the + most precious seed had been sown. Therefore the harvest will surely be + great, the field will yield an hundredfold. +</p> +<p> + The fidelity of Argyle and of Guthrie, their devotion to Christ and the + Covenant, reappeared in hundreds of noblemen and in hundreds of + ministers all over Scotland. Overawe and subdue the Covenanters by + sacrificing their prominent leaders? Their foes mistook their spirit and + underestimated their strength, knowing little of the deathless + principles of the Covenant that carried them into the service of the + Lord, not counting their lives dear for Christ's sake. The Covenanters + overawed! Will the sun faint and fail beneath the gale? Will the oak + wither at the loss of a few boughs? Will veterans recoil at the first + fire? Rather, will not the fighting spirit be roused? +</p> +<p> + At this time the Covenanters numbered about 1,000 ministers, and + 100,000 communicants. They had 900 congregations. The ministers were not + all staunch; the leaven of compromise had been working; half the number + had become more or less infected. They had weakened in the Covenant and + yielded to King Charles under his vicious administration. The political + whirlpool in its outside circles was drawing them slowly yet surely + toward its horrible vortex. +</p> +<p> + The sifting time had come for the Covenanters. God knows how to shake + His sieve to clean the wheat. He seeks not bulk, but value. Numbers are + nothing to Him; character is everything. He would rather have Gideon + with 300 men up to the standard, than thirty regiments below it. He + preferred one-tenth of Israel to the whole number, and sifted the nation + in Nebuchadnezzar's sieve to get the good wheat separated from the + inferior. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanted Church became loaded down with chaff, weevil, shrunken + grains, and broken kernels—low grades of religious life—and the Lord + shook the bad out of the Church by making it exceedingly painful and + difficult to stay in. The way of faithfulness was filled with hardships. + God made Covenant-keeping dangerous and expensive. The followers of + Christ were compelled to take up the cross and carry it. If true to + their Lord, they must go outside the camp, bearing His reproach. If they + keep conscience pure, they must accept cruel mockings, scourging, + imprisonment, banishment, and death. In this way would God separate unto + himself a "peculiar people, zealous of good works." The others may be of + use in degree, yet to prevent general defection and universal + declension, God winnows the wheat. +</p> +<p> + But who were thrown out of the Presbyterian Church in the reign of + Charles II.? Were they not the strong, unyielding, uncompromising + Covenanters? Who are these separated from their brethren, and driven + like chaff before the wind over mountains and moors? Are they not the + zealous defenders of the Reformed faith? the true soldiers of Jesus + Christ? To the casual eye the scrupulous, strong-headed, hard-fighting + Covenanters were tossed out, and the rest remained at home to distribute + the prey; the lax party had the organization and held the Church; the + strict party suffered disintegration and were banished. But such a view + is only superficial; yea, it is a visual illusion. +</p> +<p> + The Church of Christ depends not on external organization. She can live + without assemblies, presbyteries, or sessions. She can enjoy the fullest + measure of the love of Christ without chapels, masses, or glebes. She + can have power and render service in any community, without ministers, + elders, or deacons. +</p> +<p> + When the Covenanters were driven out by the persecutor, the Covenanted + Church went forth into the wilderness, leaning upon the Lord Jesus + Christ her Beloved. She brought with her all the essentials. She had the + Bible, the Covenant, the faith, the sacraments, the Holy Spirit, the + love of God, and the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. The valleys were + her places of worship; her meeting houses were fitted up with stone + seats, rock pulpits, granite walls, green carpets, and azure ceilings. A + row of stones was her sacramental table, and the purling stream her + baptismal bowl. The mountains round about were filled with angelic + hosts, and the plains were covered with the manna of heaven; the banner + of Christ's love waved over the worshipers, and the glory of God filled + the place. Such was the Church of the Covenanters in the times of + persecution. +</p> +<p> + The king and his advisers in 1662 required of the Covenanted Church what + no faithful self-respecting Covenanter could render. The demands in + substance were: +</p> +<p> + That the oath of allegiance, embodying the king's supremacy over Church + and State, shall be taken. +</p> +<p> + That the ministers in preaching and praying shall not refer to public + sins, whether committed by the king or his parliament. +</p> +<p> + That the administration of the Church shall be, to some extent, + according to the Prelatic form. +</p> +<p> + That the edicts of the king and the enactments of parliament shall not + be questioned, even in the light of God's Word. +</p> +<p> + That the ministers shall comply with these demands, or be banished from + their respective homes, parishes, and presbyteries. +</p> +<p> + Such was the sieve that did the work. What loyal heart could brook these + terms? What minister of Christ, bent on preserving honor and conscience, + could remain in charge of his church? In comparison with the Covenant, + all earthly inducements were as rotten straw, in the judgment of those + whose eyes took in the world of glory and rested on the Lord. +</p> +<p> + Two hundred Covenanted ministers quietly accepted the penalty. On the + last Sabbath of October, 1662, they preached their farewell sermons. The + churches were crowded; the grief of the people was indescribable, + heart-groans broke into loud lamentations. "There was never such a sad + day in Scotland as when the poor persecuted ministers took their leave + of their people." Two hundred more stood their ground and fought the + battle a little longer. These were forcibly ejected. Thus that + desolating blast smote four hundred congregations of Covenanters. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="400"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0026"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_26.jpg" width="400" height="350" +alt="John Welch, Ejected from his Church"> +<b>John Welch, Ejected from his Church</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +John Welch, of Irongrey, was a grandson of the famous John Welch, of the + First Reformation. He was one of the 400 Covenanted ministers who were + driven from their pulpits by the kings edict in 1662. His congregation, + overwhelmed with sorrow, followed him till they came to a brook where + they kneeled down and prayed. Mounting his horse he rode away while they + rent the air with their bitter wails. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The minister with his wife and children departed in deep sorrow from the + pleasant manse and the loving people. Tender ties were sundered and holy + endearments sacrificed; the comforts of life were abandoned, and safety, + shelter, and supplies left + behind. The minister could have retained all had not his conscience + been so tender. But the servant of the Lord may not be bribed. Offer the + true minister of Jesus Christ money, comfort, pleasure, honor, houses, + lands—all that the world can give to corrupt his conscience in his + calling, and you will get a laugh of scorn that will freeze the blood. +</p> +<p> + The winter storms were descending upon the man of God and his + unprotected family, as they walked across the glebe to return no more. + They went out, not knowing where they were going. Night may fall upon + them in a dreary place; to-morrow may come to them without a roof, or a + table, or a fire. Winter may drive them into a cold cave, where possibly + some good-hearted shepherdess may find them, and share with them her + pail of milk and oaten cakes. Withal no complaints. They have taken + joyfully the spoiling of their goods for the sake of Christ. By them the + reproach of Christ was accounted better than the riches of Egypt. +</p> +<p> + Alexander Peden was one of the fighting ministers. He preached till + forced to leave his pulpit. On the day of his farewell service the + congregation was convulsed with grief. Peden had to restrain the wails + of the people again and again. Coming down from the pulpit after + service, he shut the pulpit door and struck it three times with his + Bible, saying with great emphasis, "I charge thee, in my Master's name, + that no man ever enter thee, but such as come in by the door as I have + done." The pulpit kept the solemn charge; no one entered there till + after the persecution; it remained empty twenty-six years. +</p> +<p> + Prelatic ministers were sent to fill the 400 vacant pulpits, but the + people refused to hear them. The time of field-preaching had now come; + the Conventicles in the mountains and moors became the order of the day. +</p> +<p> + The ministration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ—that river of God which + makes glad the city of the Lord—had now reached the precipitous places + where it was broken upon the rocks; yet it continued to flow, and even + increase in volume and strength. The preaching by these ministers in the + desolate places was powerful, impetuous, majestic, thunder-like amid the + mountains, making the kingdom tremble. Great trials make great men. +</p> +<p> + We live in an easy age. Ministers may now have pulpit and salary on easy + terms. They can preserve a good conscience without special self-denial. + No providential issue now to separate the false from the true. But the + ease of conscience in the Church's ministry, and the easy terms of + communion in her membership, may change God's gold and make it dim with + dross, and thus necessitate a furnace. The Lord may suddenly spring an + event upon His Church, that will compel the true to be very true, and + the false to be very false. Where will we stand in case the trial come? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What effect had the death of Argyle and Guthrie on the Covenanters? +</p> +<p> + 2. How does God keep His Church pure? +</p> +<p> + 3. Why is the sifting process needed? +</p> +<p> + 4. Can the Church survive the loss of her external organization? +</p> +<p> + 5. Describe the Covenanted Church in the mountains and moors of + Scotland. +</p> +<p> + 6. What did the king require of the ministers? +</p> +<p> + 7. How did the Covenanters receive his restrictions? +</p> +<p> + 8. How many pastors were driven from their churches? +</p> +<p> + 9. What may again occasion a sifting time? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0029"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXVI. +</h2> +<h3> + THE FIELD-MEETINGS.—A.D. 1663. +</h3> +<p> + Middleton, the king's commissioner, had dictated to the Covenanted + ministers how they should conduct their ministry. They boldly declined + his authority over their work in the Gospel. He then laid down + conditions upon which their pastoral relation must depend. These + conditions have been stated in the foregoing chapter. They may be summed + up in three brief sentences: Acknowledgement of the king's supremacy + over the Church; Agreement to refrain from all public criticism of the + king; Willingness to conduct public worship as the king directed. +</p> +<p> + Such were the terms on which the Covenanted ministers might continue + their work. They were given one month to reach a decision. The conflict + of interests that tried the famous 400 ministers none knew but God. + Home, wife, children, salary, comfort, tender ties, future supplies, and + the welfare of the congregation—oh, how much was involved in that + decision! Can the husband, the father, the shepherd, the watchman arise + and forsake all? Can he suspend the high calling, sunder the holy ties, + abandon the field and flock, and go forth, not knowing whither he goeth? + can flesh and blood endure the ordeal? +</p> +<p> + But look at the other side. Will the servant of the Lord take orders + from man? Will the ambassador of God submit to be muzzled? Will a pastor + of Christ's flock hold his position for what he finds in the flesh-pot? + Will the preacher of righteousness connive at wickedness? Will the + herald of Gospel liberty become a slave to vilest men? Such was the + other outlook. Which way will the man of God take? +</p> +<p> + The Lord made the way of faithfulness hard to travel. Only they, who, + like Caleb, followed the Lord wholly, could walk therein. To make this + choice, the love of the Lord Jesus Christ had to arise in the heart and + surge through all the veins, above love for wife, or children, or house, + or lands, or brethren, or sisters, or self; and it must consume all + these in the flames of its vehemence. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="300"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0027"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_27.jpg" width="293" height="350" +alt="Preaching in the Mountains."> +<b>Preaching in the Mountains.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +The Conventicle preachers were men of dauntless courage. Their souls had + firmly grasped the tremendous verities of the Gospel and Kingdom of + Christ, and the Word of God was as fire in their bones. They chose texts + that resounded like artillery. Just before Cargill was offered up, he + preached from the words: "Gird Thy sword on Thy thigh, O Most Mighty, + with Thy glory and Thy majesty!" How that seraphic preacher swayed the + people with that discourse has not been told. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + And the Lord made the wrong way, also, hard to travel; yea, impassable, + except for those whose sin against light made them exceeding sinful. + What more vile, degraded, contemptible, and criminal, than a minister of + Christ, that is leased to an earthly power, purchased with things that + perish, and controlled by designing men? In this manner would + God separate the precious from the vile and put them far apart. +</p> +<p> + On November 1, 1662, three-fourths of the Covenanted ministers were + brought to this valley of decision. The king's edict took effect upon + those who had been settled within the past thirteen years; the others, + for the time, were exempted. About 700, therefore, stood at the parting + of the ways. Of this number about sixty per centum chose to suffer with + Christ, that they might reign with him; the rest, being faint-hearted, + abode by the stuff. All honor to the Church that could muster such a + proportion of self-sacrificing, ministers! These men accepted the + challenge and went forth, like soldiers, into the field of action, + saying, "We will continue the conflict till we overcome, or hand it down + in debate to posterity." +</p> +<p> + Four hundred ministers expelled from their congregations! four hundred + churches left vacant! four hundred families rendered desolate! forty + thousand of God's sheep, and as many lambs, left to wander in the + wilderness without a shepherd! who can estimate the extent of such a + calamity? who can reckon the sorrows, sufferings, and stupendous losses, + public and private, caused by this iniquitous act of the king? +</p> +<p> + But the four hundred ministers were not silenced. Who can silence + tongues of fire? They were scattered, but not conquered. They took + shelter where it could be found—under friendly roofs, within dismal + caves, under dripping moss-hags, in the open fields, and on mountain + tops. They wandered over desolate moors and on lonely ridges. They + suffered hunger, weariness, sickness, exposure. The rains of summer + drenched them and the snows of winter stiffened them. They were clothed + with plaids, shawls, and threadbare garments. They hastened from place + to place to elude pursuers, and wherever they went they carried their + Bibles. The Bible to them in their desolation was meat, drink, light, + shelter, fellowship,—everything the soul could wish. +</p> +<p> + These men of God were devoted preachers, they loved to preach, had a + passion for preaching. The Word of God that carried them into such + excess of suffering was in their bones as fire, an unquenchable flame; + and in their hearts as rising waters, an overflowing river. As Christ + their Lord and Master preached in summer and in winter, in the house and + in the field, to as many as came, so preached they to one soul, or to + ten thousand. +</p> +<p> + The king sent detachments of his army over the country to compel the + people, who had lost their pastors, to attend services under the + ministers of the Episcopal Church. They refused. The new clergymen + preached to empty pews in many of the Covenanted parishes. The + Covenanters instinctively discovered the haunting places of their own + ministers, and thither they repaired for their preaching. They traveled + far that they might hear the precious Gospel, in its richness and + fulness from consecrated lips. They were hungry for the Word of God and + willingly incurred hardships and dangers to get a feast. These meetings + at first were small; in time they developed into the great Conventicles + at which thousands assembled to worship God. +</p> +<p> + A Conventicle Sabbath was a solemn day. The time and place having been + fixed beforehand, the people were notified in a very private manner. A + kind of wireless telegraphy seemed to have been operated by the + Covenanters. The news spread and thousands came at the call. The place + selected was usually in the depression of a lonely moor, or under the + shelter of a desolate mountain; yet any spot was dangerous. The king had + issued successive proclamations against the Conventicles, and his troops + were constantly scouring the country in search of them. +</p> +<p> + The services were of necessity sensational. At the appointed time the + people were on the ground. Many came a great distance, some of them + traveling under the shades of night. From every direction they + converged. Fathers and mothers with their sons and daughters were there. + The young and the old were equally full of zeal, and the women were + courageous as the men. On the way they would cannily scan the country + from the hilltop, to see if the dreaded dragoons were in sight. +</p> +<p> + The hour for the service having arrived, the audience sat down upon the + grass or on the rocks. The minister took his stand on a prominent spot. + Sentinels occupied elevated points, from whence they could detect and + report the approach of troops. The mountain extended its friendly + shelter over the congregation. The sun shed its light upon them like the + smile of their heavenly Father. The sky spread over them as the canopy + of God's high throne. The winds swept through the bushes and over the + heather with regaling freshness. This was God's sanctuary built without + hands; here His people worshiped in spirit and in truth. +</p> +<p> + The minister from his granite pulpit would catch the inspiration. The + waiting people, the earnest faces, the gleaming eyes, the solemn hour, + the charming scenery, the occasion, the danger, the privilege, the + responsibility, the presence of God, the nearness of heaven—how much + here to awaken all that was noble, courageous, and overpowering in God's + messenger! The fiery, pathetic, powerful eloquence, that echoed among + those rocks and swept through the coves, was beyond the reporter's + skill. Here heaven touched earth; eternity overlapped time; glory + overspread the worshipers. These were days when that which is most + sacred, awful, and sublime burdened men's souls. Here holy oratory + distilled like dew, breathed like zephyrs, crashed like storms, leaped + like devouring flames. The recorded sermons of these ministers are yet + regarded as the very marrow of Christian literature. +</p> +<p> + Have we the zeal of these fathers for the house of our God? Are we + carried to the place of worship at the appointed hour by our love for + Jesus Christ? One glance at the enthusiasm of the Conventicle + Covenanters would surely make the present generation blush. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. State the demands Commissioner Middleton made upon the Covenanted + ministers. +</p> +<p> + 2. How would such a demand agitate the mind? +</p> +<p> + 3. How long had they to decide? +</p> +<p> + 4. What proportion remained faithful under the trial? +</p> +<p> + 5. In what way did these continue their ministry? +</p> +<p> + 6. Describe a Conventicle service. +</p> +<p> + 7. How will present zeal for Divine services compare with their zeal? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0030"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXVII. +</h2> +<h3> + THE COVENANTERS' COMMUNION.—A.D. 1664. +</h3> +<p> + The Lord Jesus Christ loves His Church with love that arises into + flames. "I am jealous for Jerusalem and for Zion with a great jealousy." + The Church is His Bride, His well-beloved, His only one; He has bestowed + His heart upon her. +</p> +<p> + The love of Jesus for His Church has ever been excessive in intensity. + His blood was shed for her redemption. Love laid Him on the altar, where + His life was consumed for her sake. It laid all Covenant blessings at + her feet, placed the angelic hosts at her service, made the universe + tributary to her welfare, opened heaven for her admission, prepared her + throne at the right hand of God, and gave the eternal ages to her for + service and enjoyment, in Jesus Christ her Lord. And this love has never + abated; His voice resounds across the centuries, falling upon her ears + in sweetest accents, saying, "I have loved thee with an everlasting + love." +</p> +<p> + The Lord Jesus asks the Church for reciprocal love. It is His due; + Christ is worthy; nothing less than vehement love will satisfy the + Divine heart. The apostle, in dread of its subsidence, cries out, "Keep + yourselves in the love of God." How readily the Church, in interest and + zeal, becomes cold. Her spiritual pulse sinks till it is scarcely + perceptible; the flames disappear, and the coals lie hidden in their own + grey ashes. +</p> +<p> + With such conditions the Lord is vexed. He gently chides His inconstant + Bride, saying, "Thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from + whence thou art fallen; repent, and do the first works." Then in + unwaning faithfulness He tenderly soliloquizes: "Behold, I will allure + her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably unto her; + and she shall sing as in the days of her youth." The Covenanted Church + was now in the wilderness; the Lord had brought her hither, that He + might woo her back to Himself, and revive her first love. Here He spake + to her heart the words that rekindled the fires of her earliest and + strongest devotion to the Covenant, that holy contract of her marriage + to the Lord. +</p> +<p> + The loving fidelity of the 40,000 Covenanters, or more, who had been + deprived of their ministers by King Charles, was severely tested. The + Lord Jesus, in His crucial providence, was to them as a refiner's fire; + their love was sorely tried in the terrible heat. +</p> +<p> + The first question that appealed to the heart was concerning comfort and + convenience. Their churches were occupied by other ministers. There the + people could have preaching, hear the Word, listen to prayers, sing + Psalms, and receive baptism and the Lord's Supper. True, the services + were spiced and ornamented with details, which the Covenanters disliked, + because they were unscriptural. But could they not find hidden manna on + the sand, and kernels of wheat in the chaff? Could they not get + sufficient food in the new ministrations to sustain their souls? Could + they not reach heaven by the new road as certainly as by the old? Such + were the inquiries that appealed to their love of ease. These sturdy + sons of the Covenant said, "NO." They said it, too, with emphasis like + the lightning that strikes the oak. They said, "Public worship, not in + all parts according to the Book of God, is corrupt; we will not + participate in such services, for the Lord has said, 'Cursed be the + deceiver, that sacrificeth unto the Lord a corrupt thing.'" +</p> +<p> + The second question was concerning the imminent dangers that attended + their own services. Their meetings were held in distant places; in the + lonely mountain, on the homeless moor, in the swampy moss, in the dark + glen, among the rugged rocks, and in the dreary cave—just wherever they + could find a place to worship God in peace. They had no roof for + shelter, no walls to break the storm, no fires for heat. Attending these + meetings involved travel, weariness, hunger, exposure, loss of sleep, + shivering in the cold, every physical strain, besides the risk of life, + liberty, and property, at the hands of the enemy. These heroic sons and + daughters of the Covenant said, "We will go; if we perish, we perish; + though He slay us, yet will we trust in Him." These Covenanters would + not habituate themselves to sinful conditions, nor permit their + conscience to be drugged with the love of ease. They had much of the + spirit of Paul; they counted all things loss for the excellency of the + knowledge of Christ. They consulted not with flesh and blood; not even + with their own flesh, which was often wasted with hunger, fatigue, and + pain; nor with their own blood, which was frequently sprinkled on the + heather and mingled with the mountain rill. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="370"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0028"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_28.jpg" width="364" height="350" +alt="The Covenanters' Communion."> +<b>The Covenanters' Communion.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +These communions were very spiritual and solemn. The people came in + great numbers into the solitudes of the mountain and moorlands, and + there renewed their Covenant at the Lord's Table. The danger added much + to the awe and reverence of these meetings. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The Conventicles, held in these desolate resorts, were awe inspiring, + especially the Communions. Many of the people journeyed at night toward + the selected spot, for troops were overrunning the country to shoot them + down, and day travel was extremely dangerous. They therefore followed + their path in the light of the stars, or under the pale moon. They came + from all directions, converged like streams at the place appointed, and + spread out like an overflowing tide. Sometimes they numbered 5,000, and + more. Men and women, young and old, came and sat down on the broad + green, in quietness and with + unwonted gravity. The men in their kilts, plaids, and caps; the women + in shawls and plain clothes; the boys and girls beaming and bright, and + dressed in their best—all gathered together, sitting down on the grass + or on the rocks. What an inspiration to the minister, when opening his + Bible he gazed upon the earnest faces and caught the gleam of those + expectant eyes! +</p> +<p> + Saturday was Preparation day for the Communion. Preparation services + sometimes lasted till sunset Several ministers were usually in + attendance. At night the grave old elders would meet in clusters, under + the shadow of a rock, or in a cave, or beside the murmuring brook, and + spend hours in prayer. With the dawn of Sabbath the people were astir, + and soon appeared again on the grounds. Then began the solemn services + that lifted their souls into the heavens of joy, and brought them into + the glorious presence of Jesus Christ. +</p> +<p> + We may receive an impression of the greatness of these occasions, from + memorials yet to be seen on some of the sacred places where the + Communions were held. Certain stones near the town of Irongrey remain as + witnesses of these inspiring solemnities. The stones were evidently on + the ground, as witnesses of the wonderful doings of God and His people, + in the days of the Conventicles. Oh, that they could speak! This place + is in the bosom of a mount. Here we find an open space, like unto an + amphitheater, large enough to seat thousands. On this ground are two + rows of stones each row high enough for a seat, and long enough to + accommodate fifty persons. Between them, other stones stand upright, + which evidently supported planks, on which the bread and wine were + passed in front of the communicants. At a little distance are two other + rows of similar construction. Here were accommodations for 200 at one + table service. On one occasion, it is said, sixteen tables were served, + the number of communicants on that day being no less than 3,000. +</p> +<p> + At one end of these four rows stands a small table of stone, from which, + no doubt, the minister gave the bread and wine to the people. Here he + made the table addresses, that were so sweet and refreshing to these + weary souls. What solemn days these must have been. Hungry hearts found + a feast in the desert. The wells of salvation overflowed; the palm trees + of sacred ordinances shed their sweet fragrance, spread forth their + shade, yielded their fruit, for these followers of the Lamb. The + presence of the Lord was deeply felt. These Covenanters worshiped here + in spirit and in truth. Their prayers ascended on the wings of the + winds; the sound of the Psalms mingled with the song of the birds and + the chant of the brooks. The eloquence of the preacher—now rising like + the storm, now falling like a spring shower—now consoling the sad, now + arousing the strong—now exhibiting the loveliness of Jesus, now + depicting the woes of the lost—in its ever-varying notes of tenderness + and power, echoed along the hillside, and died away in the distance. + Some of these sermons are yet in print. +</p> +<p> + These have been regarded, by certain writers, as the greatest days of + the Church since the times of the apostles. How bright and refreshing + the sunshine that poured down from the spiritual heavens upon these + Covenanters! The desert rejoiced and blossomed as the rose. Heaven was + very near. One who survived the persecution said, that if he had any + part of his life to live over again, he would choose these years. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. How should the Church respond to the love of Christ? +</p> +<p> + 2. In what way does her love often fail? +</p> +<p> + 3. How does Jesus reprove His people for growing feeble in love? +</p> +<p> + 4. How has He sometimes undertaken to revive His Church's fidelity? +</p> +<p> + 5. What two questions did the Covenanters face in attending Conventicle + services? +</p> +<p> + 6. Describe a Conventicle Communion. +</p> +<p> + 7. What memorials are found at Irongrey? +</p> +<p> + 8. How may we have the same rapturous joy at communions now? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0031"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXVIII. +</h2> +<h3> + THE HOME INVADED.—A.D. 1665. +</h3> +<p> + Home, by Divine appointment, is a haven of rest for the weary father, a + palace of honor for the virtuous mother, a citadel of defence for the + helpless children. How sacred, pleasant, and ennobling is the Christian + home, when modeled after the Divine pattern! It is a little paradise, a + miniature heaven, a vestibule of the everlasting habitation; it fronts + on the borders of the glory-world. +</p> +<p> + The home of the Covenanters in those days was mostly the abode of virtue + and intelligence, of comfort in the Holy Spirit and abundant grace in + the Lord Jesus Christ. The knowledge of God was the light in which the + household dwelt. The language of the Shorter Catechism was the mother + tongue; the children were dieted on Psalms and porridge; the family + altar was indispensable; the Holy Bible was appreciated more than bread, + and King David's poetry more than roast lamb. The father's prayer at the + hearthstone was vital to the household as the breath of their nostrils; + morning and evening the voice of parents and children mingled together + in the worship of God. +</p> +<p> + To the family that kept Covenant with God the Sabbath came with peculiar + loveliness and inspiration. On Saturday evening special preparation was + made for the coming of the Lord's Day; even the turf was piled beside + the fire, the potatoes were washed and in the pot, and the water carried + from the spring; "the works of necessity and mercy" were reduced to a + minimum. A solemn hush fell upon the fields, and a heavenly light + gleamed upon the house, as the sun ascended the sky. The noise of labor + had ceased, and the human voice was suppressed. The notes of a plover, + or the bleating of a lamb, or the lowing of a cow, might be heard making + the quietness all the more impressive. The morning came pouring out + blessings upon the people, like Christ Jesus on the Mount of Beatitudes, + filling every open heart with sweetness, holiness, and inspiration. The + blessed morning came to lead the father and mother, with their sons and + daughters, up into the mountain of God's House, to stand in the presence + of the Lord of glory, and absorb the brightness that would shine in + their faces for many days to come. The Sabbath was the great day of the + week in the Covenanter's home. +</p> +<p> + Let us get a glimpse of these homes of the Covenanters, as they suffered + when the storms of persecution swept the land. But will not the + dwelling-place of the righteous be protected from harm? Will not the + Lord, in His glorious presence, hover over them as a cloud by day and as + a flaming fire by night? Hath He not said, "Upon all the glory shall be + a defence?" Shall the cruel persecutor then have power to tread on that + sacred threshold? May the ruthless slayer enter this little sanctuary, + where God and His children dwell together in mutual and unquenchable + love? Will the wicked be permitted to draw the sword, and quench the + coals on the hearth, and the fire on the altar, with the blood of the + worshipers? The answer is found in the story of the sufferings of the + Covenanters. +</p> +<p> + God had now begun judgment at His own House. He was testing the fidelity + of His people. The test must touch every point, cover every relation, + and reach the degree of suffering that satisfies His mysterious will. + God cares much, even for houses, fields, harvests, garners, comforts, + conveniences, earthly ties—He cares much for all these as they affect + His people. He cares infinitely more, however, for their moral + cleanness, spiritual growth, untarnished fidelity, unconquerable faith, + and everlasting honor. Therefore He permits the furnace to be heated, + and sometimes heated sevenfold; yet He brings them out of the flames + without the smell of fire on their garments. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="440"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0029"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_29.jpg" width="436" height="350" +alt="The Howie Home, Lochgoin."> +<b>The Howie Home, Lochgoin.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +The house is located in one of Scotland's solitudes. Here the Howies + have lived for 28 successive generations, keeping the altar fire burning + since 1178. The present house is modern, bearing the date 1858; John + Howie, the present occupant, (1912), is the 28th lineal descendant of + one of the first settlers. We had the pleasure of meeting this genial + Scotchman in his meadow, as he was making hay one fine August day. He + immediately laid his fork aside, and brought us to his house, where we + were deeply interested in a fine collection of souvenirs of the martyrs + and their times. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The persecutors, heartless as the rocks and frigid as the iceberg, had + equal disregard for the rights of + men, the delicacy of women, and the innocency of children. A few + incidents will show the general conditions. Nor are these exceptional + cases; thousands, yea, tens of thousands suffered in like manner. +</p> +<p> + A Home at Lochgoin. This is a very ancient residence of the Covenanters. + The Howies have lived here since 1178, the twenty-eighth generation now + occupying the house. The building is stone, one story high, with a loft. + While the persecution raged, this was a chief resort of the Covenanters. + Occupying a solitary place, with a vast out-stretch of waste moorland on + every side, this house was like the shadow of a great rock in a weary + land: the pursued often found shelter under its roof. Hither Peden, + Cameron, Renwick, Paton, and many others repaired, and found a cordial + welcome. On one occasion a group had come to spend the night in prayer. + They felt comparatively secure, because a storm was raging over the + moor. The clouds were pouring down torrents, and the fitful gusts were + playing wildly across the broad expanse of moss and heather. These men + of God knew how to wrestle with the Angel of the Covenant, and betimes + continued their prayers till the break of day. The pursuers had scented + their game; in the morning a detachment of cavalry rode up to the house. + The Covenanters escaped through the back door. To give them more time, + Mrs. Howie stood in front of the soldiers, and disputed their entrance + into the house. A burly dragoon attempted to push in. She grappled him + by the shoulder, whirled him about, and shoved him out with such force + that he fell to the ground. Her Covenanted guests all escaped, and the + soldiers, after a fruitless pursuit, withdrew. For this heroic service + Mrs. Howie suffered much and her life was sought. Often she had to leave + her home, and spend whole nights in the cold, damp moor, with a tender + babe on her breast. +</p> +<p> + A Home near Muirkirk. James Glendinning was a shepherd whose humble + cottage escaped not the notice of the persecutor. Knowing the danger + that enshrouded his home, he arose one evening from his knees after + family worship, and, walking softly across the floor, uncovered the + cradle and gently lifted the babe, which he tenderly placed on the + mother's knee, saying, "I commit you, my dear wife, and this sweet babe + to the fatherly care of the Great Shepherd of Israel. If my days be cut + short, God, the God under whose shadow we have taken refuge, will be to + you a Husband, and to this child a Father." Not long after this, the + home was beset by a company of soldiers. That very night his wife had + constrained him to retire to his hiding-place near by. The soldiers + rudely rushed into the house, expecting to pounce upon him as their + prey. Not finding him they were enraged. Seizing the infant, they held + the struggling form up in the face of the frantic mother, and, flashing + a glittering sword, threatened to cut it into pieces, if she did not + reveal the hiding-place of her husband. At that moment the father, who + had been attracted to the door, seeing the manoeuvres, rushed in. His + soul was on fire; he was just then strong as ten men; he feared not + consequences. "Hold, ye murderers! Back! back!" cried he, waving his + sword in their faces. He sprang toward his babe and rescued it, while he + used his sword with telling effect upon the intruders. The soldiers + retreated, leaving the floor sprinkled with their blood. The family soon + afterward removed to Holland. +</p> +<p> + A Home near Closeburn. James Nivison was a farmer whose hospitable home + afforded comfort and shelter to many who were houseless. He was an + unbending Covenanter. Nothing could daunt his noble soul. Being + threatened with trouble and loss, he once replied, that if the turning + of a straw, in obedience to unprincipled and arbitrary rulers, would + save him from harm, he would not comply. His wife was of equal heroism. + His home was so often beset by soldiers in search of him, that he had to + retire to the solitudes. He one day said to his wife, "My dear wife, + stern necessity demands our temporary separation. God will be with us + both—you at the home, and me in the wilderness." "I will accompany + you," she firmly replied; "I will accompany you. If the archers hit + you, I will be there to staunch your wounds and to bind up your bleeding + head. In whatever danger you may be, I will be at your side, your + affectionate wife, in life or in death." They went out together. Sadly + they closed the door of their pleasant home, to wander, not knowing + where. The mother carried a tender little babe in her bosom. Their first + retreat was found in the woods, then in different caves. They made a + basket of twigs for the infant. The mother, sitting in the mouth of the + cold cavern, would rock her little darling, and sing the soft lullabies + that mingled with the sighing of the winds. They survived the + persecution. +</p> +<p> + Sweet home! The Covenanted home is but an annex of heaven. Home is God's + institution, endowed by Him with the wealth of infinite grace, furnished + with holy ordinances, and consecrated with the blood of Christ. Do we + appreciate the value, the dignity, and the advantage of a Covenanted + home? Do we keep the home bright, cheerful, and inspiring, by worshiping + our Covenant God, and honoring the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Describe a Covenanted home of the olden time. +</p> +<p> + 2. What distresses fell upon these homes? +</p> +<p> + 3. Can we account for these afflictive providences? +</p> +<p> + 4. What is the explanation? +</p> +<p> + 5. Give an incident at Lochgoin; Muirkirk; Closeburn. +</p> +<p> + 6. How should a Covenanted home be appreciated? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0032"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXIX. +</h2> +<h3> + THE BATTLE OF RULLION GREEN.—A.D. 1666. +</h3> +<p> + A young Covenanter once stood on the battlefield of Rullion Green, + pensively pondering over the battle and the heroes whose blood had + watered this soil. Two centuries and more had fled since the engagement, + yet the field appealed to the responsive heart with powerful eloquence. + The beautiful slope, the verdant pasture, the grazing flocks, the broad + valley, the distant hills, the expansive sky, the summer charms—all + blended into a strange enchantment around the young man's soul. The + quiet meditation quickened the heart; the heart aroused the imagination; + the imagination revived the scenes of November 28, 1666, by which this + field was made memorable in the struggle of the Covenanters for civil + and religious liberty. He was deeply impressed with the value of the + Covenant, which was sealed with the blood of the noble warriors who + sleep on this hillside. There he vowed, that if God would ever give him + a home of his own, the home would be called RULLION GREEN. God gave him + a home; a beautiful residence, adorned with this name, graces the city + of Airdrie to-day. +</p> +<p> + The battle of Rullion Green had its cause many days previous to the + actual engagement. We will get the better view by following the chain of + events. +</p> +<p> + Four years before this, to the very month, four hundred ministers had + been expelled from their churches, because they would not forsake their + Covenant, renounce Presbyterianism, and follow the instructions of King + Charles and his Council, in the administration of God's House. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanted people, deeply in sympathy with their ministers, refused + to wait on the preaching of the curates—the ministers of the Episcopal + Church sent by the authority of the king to supply the vacant pulpits. +</p> +<p> + A series of proclamations was then issued to bring the Covenanters into + subjection, each proclamation being severer than the one preceding. +</p> +<p> + The people were enjoined to attend their own parish church, warned + against going to the Conventicles, and threatened with fines, + imprisonment, and exile for frequenting what the king termed + "unwarrantable preaching." +</p> +<p> + To enforce the royal will and overawe the Covenanters, troops were + stationed among the people and commissioned to plunder and kill the + disobedient at will. +</p> +<p> + The sufferings of the Covenanters, at the hands of the soldiers, were + indescribable. Their homes were invaded; their property was confiscated; + their flocks and herds were driven off; their families were broken up; + the aged and delicate, the women and children—all who would not yield + to their demands endured personal violence. The country groaned and + staggered under the cruelty authorized by King Charles, and practiced by + his agents. +</p> +<p> + Conditions became desperate; the wise were driven mad; patience ceased + to be a virtue; endurance was at the point of conflagration. Thousands + had to flee and keep in hiding, to escape personal harm and even the + shedding of their blood. +</p> +<p> + At this juncture of events, four young Covenanters, fleeing from place + to place for safety, came to a dwelling, where they found four dragoons + preparing to roast an old man on a gridiron, to extract information + concerning his money. The sight shocked every noble feeling; their + manhood was aroused, and their courage was greater than their prudence. + They challenged the conduct of the soldiers, and were answered with + drawn swords. The Covenanters came off best. They rescued the aged + victim, disarmed the soldiers, and marched them off at the point of + their own sabers. In the fight one of the Covenanters fired a pistol, + wounding a dragoon. That was "the shot that echoed around the world," + and re-echoed, till it resounded over the green valley of the Boyne, + among the rocks of Bunker Hill, and along the banks of the Appomattox. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters knew that they had now precipitated a conflict, that + would call armies into the field. The king's measures have hitherto been + severe, but now the furnace will be heated seven fold. The Covenanters + must now meet force with force, or be utterly crushed. They attempted to + raise an army. Next morning, the four men were increased to ten, and a + second encounter resulted in the capture of a detachment of the king's + regulars, with one dead. The second day volunteers swelled the number to + 250; the prospects were growing bright. Another engagement resulted in + the surrender of Sir James Turner, the local commander of the royal + forces. Thus far the operations greatly encouraged the Covenanters; they + now hoped to be able to redress their grievances, and compel the king to + withdraw his army, thus bringing the horrors of those times to an end. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="300"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0030"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_30.jpg" width="291" height="350" +alt="Gravestone at Rullion Green."> +<b>Gravestone at Rullion Green.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +The stone, three feet by two, stands at the head of this battlefield. + Beautiful firs pensively wave their soft branches over the grave. Here + lies the dust of the 50 Covenanters who fell on the sloping field in + front of the stone. On that day it was covered with sleet. The fallen + lay all night, some stiffened in death, and others benumbed with the + Sharp November winds. The next morning, the good women of Edinburgh + came, with shrouds for the dead, and blankets for the living, all having + been stripped by the foe. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + King Charles hastily prepared to meet the new conditions. He termed the + uprising, "A formidable insurrection." He massed his troops to crush + "the rebels." The Covenanters spent their time moving from one town to + another to increase their forces. Colonel James Wallace, a brave officer + of considerable military experience, was chosen commander. The recruits + were not numerous. They were also + without discipline, and inefficiently armed, carrying muskets, pistols, + swords, pikes, scythes, pitchforks, and flails. +</p> +<p> + At Lanark they remained a day, renewing their Covenant and issuing a + Public Declaration, stating that the object of their appeal to arms was + the redress of their grievances. The next day they manoeuvred, coming in + contact with detachments of the enemy. The weather was unfavorable; + rain, snow, sleet, and wind united in drenching, chilling, and + depressing the unsheltered and underfed men, and turning the roads, over + which they marched, into deep mire. When the morning of the 28th + arrived, the day of the battle, Colonel Wallace had only 900 men at his + command. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters were moving around the foot of the Pentland hills, a few + miles from Edinburgh, when General Dalziel, with 3000 of the king's + troops, emerged from a pass behind them, and offered battle. Wallace + accepted the challenge. He formed his men for action on the hillside, + having the advantage of the higher ground. The gentle slope extended + down to the spot where Dalziel's war-horse was pawing the ground. The + sun was sinking behind the hills. The day was cold and the country was + covered with sleet. +</p> +<p> + Dalziel ordered an attack by his cavalry. The horsemen formed, each with + blade in hand, and moved rapidly up the rising ground. Colonel Wallace + immediately placed his mounted men in readiness to receive them. The + space between the armies was about half a mile. The Covenanters grimly + watched their approach. The waiting moments were burdened with awe, but + the Covenanters knew how to turn awful moments into power. They carried + the Psalms in their hearts. Some one began to sing. The Psalm was + pensive and the tune solemn. All hearts were responsive; from 900 voices + a wave of sacred music rolled up the mountain-side against the heavens. + The very sentiment seemed to be the stirring of hearts, that were + consciously entering into a forlorn battle: +</p> +<pre> + "O God, why hast Thou cast us off? + Is it for evermore? + Against Thy pasture-sheep why doth + Thine anger smoke so sore?" +</pre> +<p> + They sang three stanzas. While the echoes were dying away, the brave + Colonel ordered a charge. Adown the field his horsemen dashed. They + struck the enemy with terrific force, broke their ranks, and hurled them + back upon their own base. +</p> +<p> + Dalziel ordered another charge. The troops plunge forward to retrieve + their lost honor. Over the blood-stained snow they gallop; nearer and + nearer they approach the stern line awaiting them on the hillside. + Wallace gives the word, and the Covenanters again strike the gleaming + column with clash of swords, once more rolling it back upon itself in + confusion. +</p> +<p> + A third time the cavalry charged up the hill, and a third time the + Covenanters hurled them back. Dalziel at last moved his entire force + forward, which, like a tidal wave, carried all before it. The + Covenanters were swept from the field leaving 50 dead. The battle was + lost, but not the cause. These heroes fought well. The defeat was + certain, in their own minds, even before a shot was fired; but believing + that the cause of liberty now demanded a sacrifice, they freely offered + up themselves on the altar. +</p> +<p> + Rullion Green! How euphonic the name! What music in the words! What + clustering memories to awaken all that is heroic and ennobling in our + hearts! De we appreciate the fruits of the fields, fertilized with the + blood of the fathers? Are we loyal as they were to the Covenants? Do our + lives arise into the heroic spirit, and take on the moral grandeur + exhibited by them? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What led to the battle of Rullion Green? +</p> +<p> + 2. Who commanded on each side? +</p> +<p> + 3. What was the respective strength of the forces? +</p> +<p> + 4. Where was the engagement fought? +</p> +<p> + 5. Describe the battle. How did it issue? +</p> +<p> + 6. For what were the Covenanters contending? +</p> +<p> + 7. What fruits of their sufferings do we now enjoy? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0033"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXX. +</h2> +<h3> + THE OPPRESSOR'S REVENGE.—A.D. 1667. +</h3> +<p> + The sun was sinking behind the Pentland hills, when the last assault was + made upon the Covenanters at the battle of Rullion Green. They, being + driven from the field, were pursued without mercy till night kindly + threw its shadow over the scene of carnage. About 30 were slaughtered in + the flight, and 50 taken prisoners; many of these were speedily + executed. +</p> +<p> + The stars timidly arose and shed their pale light over the crimsoned + field. The night was bitterly cold. The dead lay scattered over the + frosted ground, and the air was burdened with the groans of the dying. + All had been barbarously stripped of their clothing by the ruthless + conquerors. The blood of the dying was chilled in their veins, ere it + oozed from their wounds and froze upon the ground. The tender-hearted + women of Edinburgh came the next day, with clothes for the living and + winding sheets for the dead. An upright stone, two feet by three, marks + the place where these soldiers of Christ, in number about 50, calmly + sleep, awaiting the resurrection of the just. Beautiful fir trees + swaying their soft branches over the grave seem to be singing the dirge + of the fallen heroes. +</p> +<p> + Heroes! This was a forlorn battle. The battle that must be lost, that + other battles may be won, demands heroes of the noblest type; and here + were the men. They were willing to fight in the presence of defeat. + Listen to their resolution just before the battle: "We will follow on, + till God shall do His service by us; and though we should all die at the + end of it, we think the giving of a testimony enough for all." +</p> +<p> + The little army of the Covenanters, broken and bleeding, was now + scattered upon the mountains and completely disorganized. One of these + men, wandering alone, came to a cottage at midnight. He was bleeding, + hungry, weary, utterly exhausted, ready to die. He asked for food and + shelter. The pitiful request was denied, for such kindness, if the + authorities were informed, would endanger the family; and the penalty + might be expulsion, imprisonment, or death. No cup of cold water for + this thirsty soul; no spark of charity to warm this shivering child of + the Covenant. Feeling the chill of death already creeping through his + veins, he touchingly said, "If you find me dead in the morning, bury me + on the hillside, looking toward my home beyond the valley." In the + morning he was found dead, under an oak beside the house. He was buried + as he had requested. A stone, with an interesting inscription, marks the + grave. +</p> +<p> + After this battle the Covenanters were subjected to a period of horrors + that exhaust description. This brief warlike demonstration was by the + government called "The Pentland Rising." The men who had placed + themselves under Colonel Wallace, for the redress of their wrongs, had + come from the adjacent counties. General Dalziel was immediately sent + with an army to punish the people of these districts. Here we must draw + a veil and cover the more shocking barbarities and hideous indignities; + the unmentionable crimes practiced upon these Covenanters, who already + had suffered beyond the limit of patience; upon the men, women, and + children who were as inoffensive, as they were helpless, beneath the + monstrous tyranny of King Charles and his brutal soldiers. +</p> +<p> + The story of pillage may be painted in flames; the story of revenge may + be recorded in vitriol; the story of carnage may be written in blood; + but the story of the horrors that befell the Covenanted families, + especially the delicate and helpless members of the household, must not + be told. The manner in which fathers, husbands, and brothers stood and + died on the door-step in defence of mothers, wives, sisters, and + daughters may be related; but the inhumanity that followed must not be + mentioned. Purity shudders at the horror; the heart sickens at the + thought; the eyes instinctively turn away. +</p> +<p> + General Dalziel quartered his army upon the Covenanters, sent troops in + all directions to raid the country, disinherited those who were engaged + in the "Uprising", subjected to arrest all who were suspected, and + reduced the people to extremest poverty. The soldiers lived in the homes + of the Covenanters, compelled the family to provide boarding, and + proudly tyrannized over the household. They devoured, or destroyed the + crops; slaughtered, or drove off the flocks and herds; tortured, + imprisoned, and shot the people according to their pleasure. The prisons + were overcrowded with old and young, men and women, the sickly and the + dying. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="360"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0031"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_31.jpg" width="359" height="350" +alt="Rutherford's Monument at Anwoth."> +<b>Rutherford's Monument at Anwoth.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Rutherford's pastorate at Anwoth was pleasant and prosperous. His church + was filled with people, and his home was the abode of peace. Yet that + blessed home was disturbed by the persecutor. Rutherford was condemned, + and compelled to abide at Aberdeen as a prisoner, "six quarters of ane + yeir." The glory of the Lord was there upon him, and he called his + prison, "Christ's Palace." +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Three men under the king were chiefly responsible for these atrocities, + and all three were reprobate Covenanters. Their names can be mentioned + only with abhorrence and detestation; the Earl of Lauderdale, the Earl + of Rothes, and Archbishop Sharp. Lauderdale, formerly known as John + Maitland, one of the Scotch Commissioners at the Westminster Assembly, + shined in that bright galaxy as a morning star; but like Lucifer, son of + the morning, he fell from the glory-crested height. Rothes was the son + of the Earl of Rothes, celebrated for his active part + in the Covenant of 1638. Archbishop Sharp was a Covenanted minister, + previous to the restoration of King Charles. Such were the chief actors + in these scenes of infernal cruelty practiced upon the Covenanters. + Surely they could not have been so atrociously wicked, had they not been + previously exalted to heaven in privilege and by profession. Satan could + not have been the devil, had he not first been an angel. +</p> +<p> + Some prisoners taken at Rullion Green were, after their execution, + utilized by the government, for the intimidation of the Covenanters. + Their heads were set up in public places in various cities, as a + gruesome warning to all others. These men, when on the way to Rullion + Green, had paused at Lanark to renew their Covenant. There they lifted + up the right hand to heaven, making their appeal to God. Now those right + hands are cut off and set up on spikes over the gates of the city—a + grim admonition to the living. +</p> +<p> + Some of the prisoners were reserved for the slower process of law, and + the severer operations of cruelty. John Neilson became conspicuous + through the tortures he endured, the noble spirit he displayed, and the + death by which he glorified God. He was a man renowned for his wealth, + as well as for great-heartedness. The preceding year Sir James Turner, + when commanding the king's troops, despoiled him of his property; yet + when that lawless officer had been taken prisoner by the Covenanters, + Neilson pleaded for him and saved his life. Now Neilson is in his hands. + Will the kindness be returned? Ah, kindness returned! Rather feel for a + pulse in the cold granite or look upon the white marble for a loving + smile. +</p> +<p> + The Court questioned Neilson, but his answers were not satisfactory. + They tortured him, but could extract nothing further. They thrust one of + his legs into an iron boot, and crushed it with a wedge, driven between + the flesh and the iron; yet nothing but groans were extorted from him. + Filled with wrath, because a confession involving others could not be + elicited, they passed the death sentence on him. He went cheerfully to + the scaffold. +</p> +<p> + Hugh M'Kail, a young minister of Jesus Christ, was another victim. He + was a man mighty in the Scriptures and full of the Holy Spirit. His lips + were touched with a live coal from the altar of God, his eloquence was + seraphic. In one of his impassionate outbursts he had said, "The Church + in all ages has been persecuted by a Pharaoh on the throne, a Haman in + the state, and a Judas in the Church." Archbishop Sharp heard of the + terse statement. The lightning had struck the mark. Sharp appropriated + the caricature, and saw Judas personified in his own character. He never + forgave the young minister. +</p> +<p> + M'Kail was put on trial for his connection with the Pentland Rising. He + candidly confessed his part in the insurrection. The Court then demanded + information concerning the leaders; he had none to impart. They then + tortured him with the iron boot; the only response was groans. He + swooned in the dreadful agony. +</p> +<p> + This noble young minister was sentenced to die. He received the sentence + with serene happiness. When on the scaffold, he was filled with + unutterable joy; his victory over fear and death was complete; his soul + was clothed with immortal bliss. His highest hopes were now turning into + realizations that were ten thousand times brighter and more glorious + than his most sanguine expectations. The Lord Jesus was at his side; the + heavens were opening to receive him; in a few moments his face would + shine in the light that dazzled angels, and his voice would mingle in + the chorus of the redeemed round about the throne. What wonder that he + poured forth the ecstasy of a transfigured soul in these his last words: + "Welcome, God and Father; welcome, sweet Jesus, the Mediator of the new + Covenant; welcome, blessed Spirit of grace, and God of all consolation; + welcome, glory; welcome, eternal life; welcome, death. O Lord, into Thy + hands I commit my spirit; for Thou hast redeemed my soul, Lord God of + truth." +</p> +<p> + These were the winter days of the Church. But the winter was like + summer in fruitfulness. How nobly did she endure the inclement season + and produce fruit of excellent quality! We are enjoying the summer time + of peace and comfort, of privileges and advantages. How much more + abundant should be our labors of love than even theirs, in the Lord + Jesus Christ! A comparison, we fear, would put us to great disadvantage, + perhaps to shame. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What cruelties practiced on the Covenanters on Rullion Green field? +</p> +<p> + 2. Describe the wounded Covenanter seeking shelter. +</p> +<p> + 3. What horrors followed the battle? +</p> +<p> + 4. What atrocities committed by Gen. Dalziel's troops? +</p> +<p> + 5. What three men were in great part responsible for the cruelties? +</p> +<p> + 6. Describe the sufferings of John Neilson. +</p> +<p> + 7. Relate the sufferings of Hugh McKail. +</p> +<p> + 8. How did he meet his death? +</p> +<p> + 9. What special advantages have we for serving God? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0034"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXXI. +</h2> +<h3> + INDULGENCE, THE SIX-FOLD SNARE.—A.D. 1665. +</h3> +<p> + The Covenanters, after the Pentland Rising, were placed under martial + law. Every district was garrisoned and overrun with troops. The + military, having been empowered to plunder, pillage, and punish at their + caprice, did not hesitate to shoot down innocent people without trial, + leaving them weltering in their own blood. King Charles accounted the + Covenanters rebels to be subdued with fire and sword. He was determined + upon their subjection, or destruction. "Better," said one in his + service, "that the land bear whins than whigs." The Covenanters were + called whigs; the whins were worthless bushes. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters rebels! Be it remembered that Scotland was under a + Constitutional government, and the Constitution was embodied in the + Covenant. Also, the king and the people had accepted the Covenant on + oath. Yet in the face of all this, King Charles attempted to rescind the + Covenant, destroy the Constitution, and assume absolute power. Ah, was + not Charles the rebel? Was not he the traitor, the revolutionist, the + autocrat who attempted to turn things upside down? The Covenanters were + the Old Guard, who stood for law, justice, government, and + constitutional rights, on the accepted basis—God's law and Covenant. + Nor did the Old Guard ever yield the field; they occupy it yet. +</p> +<p> + True, the Covenanters did decline the king's authority in certain + particulars! But were they not justifiable? A glance at the situation + will solve the question. +</p> +<p> + The king, having expelled the Covenanted ministers, substituted others + of his own choice. The Covenanters refused to hear them. +</p> +<p> + The king restricted the Covenanters to their own parishes in public + worship. They went where they pleased. +</p> +<p> + The king forbade marriages or baptisms, except by Episcopal ministers. + The Covenanters went to their own ministers for these services. +</p> +<p> + The king ordered them to observe the Episcopal form of worship. They + believed this to be unscriptural, and refused. +</p> +<p> + The king commanded the people to deliver up their ministers to the + authorities for punishment. This they would in no wise do. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters rebels, because they declined the king's authority in + matters like these? How could they have done otherwise? Two courses lay + before them; resist the tyrant's will, or submit as his slaves. Blessed + be the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave them light, strength, courage, and + victory. These fathers of the Covenant chose to suffer and be free; to + endure the king's wrath and keep a pure conscience; to disdain every + suggestion of compromise and continue the conflict. The invitation to + come down, and consult on the plains of Ono, was answered by its own + echo—O, no. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters, like the Israelites, flourished while in this great + tribulation. They were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and + multiplied, and waxed exceeding mighty; and the land was filled with + them. The more they were afflicted, the more they multiplied and grew. + Their ministers were numbered by hundreds; the people, who assembled in + Conventicles, by tens of thousands. Oppression could not crush them; the + furnace, though heated seven times more than it was wont, could not + singe their garments. Their adversaries became alarmed and began to + devise other measures. Their device was diabolical wisdom. Satan, having + had more than three thousand years since he failed on Israel in Egypt, + was now better up to his work. The king proposed to indulge the + ministers. The royal indulgence was surely a product of the bottomless + pit. The snare was laid six times and caught many unwary souls. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="335"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0032"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_32.jpg" width="331" height="350" +alt="Anniversary of a Conventicle."> +<b>Anniversary of a Conventicle.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +The people of Scotland delight to do honor to the memory of the martyrs. + In many places they hold anniversary meetings on the grounds made + memorable by some signal event in the times of persecution. Here is the + picture of one of these thrilling meetings, held on the scene of a + Conventicle near Loudon-hill. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The First Indulgence was granted in 1669. The expelled ministers were + offered pardon, and permission to return to their churches on certain + conditions stipulated by the king. Forty-two accepted the Indulgence, + and by that very act conceded the king's right to expel, and to recall, + the ministers of Christ, at his own pleasure. The great principles for + which they had suffered were thereby sacrificed—the supremacy of the + Lord Jesus Christ over His Church, and the Church's independence under + Christ. +</p> +<p> + What were the conditions upon which these ministers returned? We give + them in substance: +</p> +<p> + 1. They must attend the meetings of the Prelatic ministers. +</p> +<p> + 2. They must permit none of the people from other parishes to attend + their services. +</p> +<p> + 3. They must refrain from speaking or preaching against the king's + supremacy. +</p> +<p> + 4. They must not criticize the king or his government. +</p> +<p> + The Indulgence, with such conditions, was accepted by forty-two + ministers. Are we surprised? Do we wonder that so many relaxed under the + strain of persecution, and returned to their own vine and fig tree? Let + not censure, from her bowers of ease, be too severe. The hardships of + these men were great, the sufferings excessive, the outlook dark. They + were worn and sickly; they were filled with pain by exposure to storms, + living in caves, and sleeping on the ground. Their lives were in + jeopardy every hour. Yet it must be said that these ministers sacrificed + much for which they had long and nobly battled; they capitulated on + terms dictated by the enemy, surrendered their rights as the ambassadors + of Christ, and accepted conditions that made them bond servants of King + Charles. They were caught in the snare. +</p> +<p> + The Second Indulgence was issued in 1672. Eighty ministers were selected + by the king for this bait, and most of them swallowed it. Yet among the + eighty some inflexible men were found on whom the deceitful offer had no + effect. They knew how to endure hardness as good soldiers. One of them + on receiving the legal notice at the hand of an official said, "I cannot + be so uncivil as to refuse this paper offered me by your lordship." Then + letting it fall to the ground, he added, "But I can receive no + instructions from you, regulating my ministry; for then I would be your + ambassador, not Christ's." He was immediately thrust into prison, and + continued there till death. The Third Indulgence was another snare, + equally deceitful and injurious. +</p> +<p> + The other three were offered by King James VII., and all were of the + same nature, only each being more lenient, seductive, and Satanic, than + the one preceding. The Indulgence was a dragnet, drawing large hauls of + hungry fish, and leaving them to squirm on the shores of sinful + compromises. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters who remained faithful were greatly diminished. The + ministers were decimated until few were left. Yet as the banner of the + Covenant fell from the hand of one, it was snatched up by another, and + defiantly given to the breeze. At no moment did the battle cease for + lack of heroes. +</p> +<p> + The Indulgence did what sword, pillage, prison, torture, exile, + gibbet—all could not do; it shattered the Covenanted forces and wasted + their power. The fiercest fires of persecution only fused the elements, + and consolidated the mass of metal. But the fruit of Indulgence was + debate, dissension, distraction, division, and decimation. The tree is + known by its fruit; the fruit was bad, very bad. The non-Indulged + charged their brethren with betrayal of Christ and His cause. The + Indulged retorted, that the king's offer opened the way back to the + churches, and refusal to accept protracted the evil times. Thus the host + of God was divided against itself; Judah against Israel, and Israel + against Judah. Archbishop Sharp had boasted, that by the Indulgence he + would throw a "bone of contention" among the Presbyterians. He judged + rightly. +</p> +<p> + The cause of Christ still demands self-sacrifice. Fidelity to Jesus + Christ is hard on the flesh; it always has been and always will be. The + friendship of this world is enmity against God, and against all who + sincerely love God. To make terms with the world is to forfeit God's + love. The Church has lost much of the heroic heart, the militant power, + the iron nerve, and the fire of the Holy Spirit, by reason of ease, + indulgence, compromise, and inordinate desire for the friendship of the + world. "If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him; if we deny Him, He + also will deny us." +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Why were the Covenanters styled rebels? +</p> +<p> + 2. How did the king try to suppress them? +</p> +<p> + 3. On what points did they refuse to obey the king? +</p> +<p> + 4. Were they justifiable? On what grounds? +</p> +<p> + 5. How did the persecuted people increase? +</p> +<p> + 6. What new attempt to divide and destroy them? +</p> +<p> + 7. How many Indulgences were offered? +</p> +<p> + 8. On what terms were ministers permitted to return home? +</p> +<p> + 9. What effect had the Indulgences on the Covenanters? +</p> +<p> + 10. What present danger along the line of Indulgence? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0035"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXXII. +</h2> +<h3> + THE FIELD MEETINGS UNDER FIRE.—A.D. 1679. +</h3> +<p> + The king's Indulgence did double work on the persecuted ministers. The + Indulgence was a surgical knife that removed the spinal nerve of the + Indulged; and it was a sharp sword launched at the heart of those who + refused the Indulgence. The proclamation that offered pardon announced + desperate measures against all who declined the offer. The persecution + thereby grew fiercer and the sufferings more insufferable. +</p> +<p> + The Indulgence thinned the Covenanted ranks; many ministers withdrew + from the Old Blue Banner with its golden motto: "FOR CHRIST'S CROWN AND + COVENANT." Home! sweet, sweet home had charmed the heart. The Indulged + were no more worthy of being called Covenanters. They had lost zeal, + courage, place, and name among the worthies. Some however repented and + returned to the solitudes. Their home, as they had crossed the + threshold, was to them no more like home, but a gloomy prison, a dreary + waste, an intolerable place, because the heart condemned them, and God + was greater than the heart. These went back to their brethren, to endure + hardness as good soldiers for Christ's sake. Persecution with all its + hardships, in comparison with the Indulgence, was a paradise while the + love of Jesus Christ enamored the soul. +</p> +<p> + The ministers who remained loyal to the Lord and the Covenant were + pursued by men who drove like Jehu. The Conventicles, however, + continued. The Covenanters swarmed on the grounds where the preaching + was appointed. They refused to hear the curates of the Episcopal Church, + and likewise the ministers who had returned through the king's + Indulgence. The latter had forfeited their confidence and respect. The + people, forsaking the parish churches, traveled to the moors and + mountains for their preaching. There they found their own ministers, the + unconquerable ambassadors of Christ, the uncompromising messengers of + God. +</p> +<p> + A price was placed upon the heads of these ministers, by the government + of King Charles. They were hunted like partridges upon the mountains. + Let them be brought in, dead or alive, and the prize will range in value + from $500 to $2,000. The people were commanded to refuse them bread, + lodging, fellowship, all kindness and support, that they might perish + without a helping hand or a consoling word. To attend their preaching + was accounted a crime to be punished by the judges, an act of rebellion + worthy of imprisonment or death. +</p> +<p> + The ministers were not overawed, nor were the people intimidated. + Field-preaching characterized the times. Conventicles were more numerous + and the attendance larger than hitherto. It was estimated that, on a + certain Sabbath, an aggregate of 16,000 attended three meetings held in + one county. Men, women, and children traveled miles and miles to these + sequestered spots among the hills and on the moors, in defiance of all + threats and in face of all clangers. There they stayed through the long + Sabbath hours, listening to the rich, sweet Gospel of Christ, while the + ministers spoke with earnestness as from the very portals of eternity. +</p> +<p> + The Conventicles flourished in spite of every effort to suppress them. + The king and his counselors became alarmed and sent the "Highland host," + a vicious army of 10,000 strong, to extinguish these hated + Field-meetings. The Covenanters suffered at their hands, as by a foreign + invasion. The military atrocities, horrible before, were now barbarous + in the extreme. "Fire, and blood, and vapors of smoke" marked the path + of these brutal men as they raided the country. Yet the Conventicles + were not extinguished. +</p> +<p> + To meet the conditions of increasing terror, the Covenanters came to the + Field-meetings armed and ready for self-defence. Sentries were + stationed on the hills that towered above the worshipers, and the + discharge of a gun was the signal of danger. At the approach of + soldiers, the people quietly dispersed, if escape were possible; if not, + then the armed men drew out and lined up for battle. Many a time the + worship of God was suddenly turned into the clash of arms. +</p> +<p> + The Lomond-hills formed good places for these meetings. On one occasion, + a large concourse of people had assembled amidst these sheltering + heights. Rev. John Wellwood, a young minister whom the soldiers could + not catch, was feasting these hungry souls with the Word of life. Some + of his sermons are still extant. They are rich in nourishment, nervous + with earnestness, and flashing with fiery eloquence, he lived in the + dark days, but died exclaiming, "Now, eternal light! no more night, nor + darkness to me." While the people this day were feasting on his words, + the signal announced the approach of the dragoons. The people quietly + moved up the "brae." The soldiers rode up and delivered five volleys + into the crowd. The balls whizzed among the men, women, and children, + but none were hurt. A ledge of rock prevented an attack. The captain + commanded them to dismiss. "We will," they replied, "when the service is + over, if you promise us no harm." The promise was given, yet the + treacherous troops dashed upon the hindmost and captured eighteen. +</p> +<p> + An attack was made also on a Conventicle held at Lillies-leaf moor. A + large number of people had assembled. The famous John Blackader was + preaching. The alarm shot was fired when the minister was in the middle + of the afternoon sermon. He at once closed the service with a few words + to allay fear. The people stood in their places, showing no excitement. + The troopers came up at full gallop and formed in battle line in front + of the Covenanters. The soldiers were astonished at the calmness of the + people. A sullen pause followed; not a word, not a movement. The officer + broke the silence, shouting, "In the name of the king, I charge you to + dismiss." The reply was immediate: "We are here in the name of the King + of heaven, to hear the Gospel, and to harm no man." Such unexpected + calmness and fortitude wilted the officer. Another painful pause. What + next? No one knew. The suspense was suddenly broken by a woman who + stepped forth from the midst of the Covenanters. She was alone; her + movements showed decision; her eyes were flashing; her face was flushed + with indignation. She went straight for the officer, seized the bridle + close to the horse's mouth, and wheeled him about, vociferating, "Fye on + ye, man; rye on ye; the vengeance of God will overtake you for marring + so good a work." The officer was dazed as by an exploding + shell. The woman was his own sister. He was crest-fallen, and withdrew + the dragoons, while the people went home unharmed. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="430"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0033"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_33.jpg" width="426" height="350" +alt="Battle of Drumclog."> +<b>Battle of Drumclog.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +The battle of Drumclog was fought on Sabbath, June 1, 1679 Claverhouse + with 240 dragoons attempted to break up a Conventicle near Loudon-hill + He was met by 250 Covenanters under Hamilton, and put to rout, leaving + 20 dead on the field. The Covenanters had 1 killed and 5 wounded. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + One of these armed Field-meetings was held at Drumclog. It was a sweet + summer Sabbath, June 1, 1679. The Covenanters had come in large numbers + They covered the green sward, sitting among clumps of moss and heather. + They were far from the abode of man; nothing there to break the solemn + stillness of the Lord's day, except the notes of the heather-cock and + the plover. Loudon-hill stood near like a mighty champion. The air + breathed softly across the field, and the sky bent silently over the + worshipers; the hearts of the people were lifted up in sweet Psalms that + echoed over the hills, and a serene joy filled all The Holy Spirit came + mightily upon the people; the Lord was among them. Thomas Douglas was + the minister. He was one of the three mighties, who afterward issued the + Sanquhar Declaration disowning King Charles II. as a tyrant. The sermon + was half finished when a signal shot was heard. Mr. Douglas immediately + closed the Bible, saying, "You have the theory; now for the practice." + 250 resolute men hastily sprang to their feet, lined up, and marched off + to meet Claverhouse who was coming with 240 dragoons. The Covenanters + halted on an elevation to await the attack. While waiting they sang the + 76th Psalm to the tune of "Martyrs." The Psalm was very appropriate; + well fitted to arouse the military spirit: +</p> +<pre> + "In Judah's land God is well known, + His name's in Israel great; + In Salem is His tabernacle, + In Zion is His seat." +</pre> +<p> + The troops galloped forward and fired. Their fire drew a vigorous + response. The Covenanters aimed with deadly precision; the fighting was + desperate; hand-to-hand encounters were frequent. The troops broke and + fled, leaving 20 dead on the field. The Covenanters had 1 killed and 5 + mortally wounded. Hamilton, Hackston, Paton, Balfour, Cleeland, and Hall + were the noble captains that won the day in the name of the Lord of + hosts. +</p> +<p> + These fighting Covenanters, who could fight as well as pray, have won + for their posterity the privilege of worshiping God in peace. There is + nothing now to hurt or annoy in God's mountain. How punctual, diligent, + and appreciative ought we to be in the service of our Lord Jesus Christ! +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What was the double effect of the Indulgence? +</p> +<p> + 2. What new effort to suppress the Conventicles? +</p> +<p> + 3. Give the character of the Highland host. +</p> +<p> + 4. How did the Covenanters prepare for self-defense? +</p> +<p> + 5. Describe the Conventicle at the Lomond-hills; Lillies-leaf moor; + Drumclog. +</p> +<p> + 6. Who were the Covenanted captains at Drumclog? +</p> +<p> + 7. How should we appreciate peaceful worship? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0036"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXXIII. +</h2> +<h3> + A MASSACRE.—A.D. 1679. +</h3> +<p> + The victory at Drumclog was followed up by the Covenanters with vigor. + Claverhouse, with his broken ranks, was hotly pursued. He fled from the + field on a wounded horse; nor did he halt till he reached Glasgow, 25 + miles away. The pursuers followed him half the distance. He began that + Sabbath with the beat of drums, and ended it with defeat and shame. +</p> +<p> + Next morning these Covenanters had doubled their number; 500 men stood + harnessed for war, determined to overtake the foe, renew the fight, and + win other victories. That forenoon, with Hamilton in command, they + boldly dashed into Glasgow to strike the broken forces of Claverhouse; + but they were repulsed. They retired to an encampment much dispirited. + As was usual with the Covenanters, they began to enquire into the moral + cause of this reverse. They felt that God for some reason was + displeased. The investigation revealed the fact, that Thomas Weir, who + had joined them with 140 horsemen, had been a dragoon in Dalziel's + ranks at Rullion Green, where the Covenanters were defeated. +</p> +<p> + A committee was appointed to wait on Weir and investigate his case. They + were roughly received. He gave no satisfaction for having been on the + enemy's side on the former occasion. The Covenanters were quick to reach + Bible conclusions and at once classed him with Achan who in the days of + Joshua brought defeat upon Israel. Weir with his detachment was + summarily dismissed. A resolution was then adopted that none, who had + forsaken the Covenant or were guilty of the sins of the times, be + admitted into the army. This was a heroic step, a return to the solid + basis, the old Covenant grounds that had been abandoned in 1650, when + the "Act of Classes" was rescinded, and the doors opened to admit + unfaithful men into places of public trust. Sir Robert Hamilton, at the + head of half a regiment of Covenanters, thus nobly attempted to rebuild + the walls of Zion and set up the gates, even in troublous times. These + were men of God who knew the Lord of hosts, in whose eyes fidelity is + everything and numbers are nothing. They were afraid of nothing but sin. +</p> +<p> + The martial spirit of the Covenanters rapidly spread during the week; + they flocked to the standard that was again lifted up for CHRIST'S CROWN + AND COVENANT. +</p> +<p> + Beneath the waving folds of the Blue Banner 5,000 men had rallied when + Saturday's sun was sinking in the west. They had unbounded confidence in + the cause for which they adventured their lives; a holy enthusiasm knit + them together. They were ready for battle "with hand strokes," as they + said to Hackston, one of their noble captains. They had accepted the + responsibility of war and were determined to win or die. The Sabbath was + approaching. They planned to enter into its sweet rest and offer the + appointed worship; then on Monday morning, march upon the enemy and + strike for freedom. But, alas, how quickly fairest prospects may be + covered with darkness! The sun set that evening behind an ugly cloud. +</p> +<p> + Hamilton had held a council of war on Thursday. He had the benefit of + the wisdom and advice of Donald Cargill, Thomas Douglas, John King, and + John Kidd, ministers eminent among the Covenanters. That Council adopted + a public Declaration, stating their reasons for taking up arms. This + statement embodied: +</p> +<p> + 1. Their purpose to defend the true Reformed religion; +</p> +<p> + 2. Their adherence to the Solemn League and Covenant; +</p> +<p> + 3. An acknowledgment of public sins and duties; +</p> +<p> + 4. A denunciation of Popery, Prelacy, and Erastianism. +</p> +<p> + The Declaration was proclaimed to the army and published to the world. + On these impregnable grounds the little army was consolidated; they felt + themselves strong in the Lord, and able in His name to fight His + battles. +</p> +<p> + On Saturday night, when quietness had fallen upon the camp, John Welch + arrived with an additional force of 440 men. This should have been an + inspiration, but it was the very opposite. Welch was a prominent + Conventicle minister; "a diligent, fervent, successful, unwearied + preacher." He was a fearless man; a price equal to $2,000 had been set + upon his head by the government. Such a man should not be disparaged. + Yet, he it was who introduced the confusion of tongues that resulted in + the utter dissipation of the army, and the consequent defeat of the + Covenanters at Bothwell Bridge. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="325"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0034"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_34.jpg" width="322" height="350" +alt="The Battle of Bothwell Bridge."> +<b>The Battle of Bothwell Bridge.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +The Battle of Bothwell Bridge was fought on Sabbath, June 22, 1679 The + king's forces numbering 15,000, under the Duke of Monmouth, assailed + 5,000 Covenanters under Robert Hamilton. For three hours Captain + Hackston, with 300 Covenanters, held the bridge. At length their + ammunition was exhausted, and the royal army forced their way across. + The Covenanters took flight and were savagely slaughtered in the + stampede 400 were slain, 1,200 captured, and the rest scattered. A + granite monument has been erected at the bridge in honor of the + Covenanters. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Welch was dissatisfied with the Declaration. It was too forceful for + him. He would tone it down, that it might soothe the king, placate the + Duke of Monmouth, condone the Indulged ministers, and restore Weir to + the ranks. He presented a new Declaration as a substitute for the one + already in force. For two weeks, even till the enemy was lining up for + battle, he agitated the question. The majority was always against him. + At last Hamilton, the commander, contrary to his convictions, yielded + for the sake of peace. He hoped by this means to save his distracted + army, that with solid ranks he might meet the foe and win the fight. + But he sadly mistook policy for wisdom. The battle of Bothwell Bridge + was lost that moment. The battle was lost before a shot was fired. + Hamilton surrendered before he met Monmouth. He had displaced the truth + for the sake of harmony. His flag is already furled, there will be no + fighting now except by the heroes of the van-guard. The Divine favor + that gives victories has been withdrawn. The martial spirit has fled + from the leader and his men are weak as women. +</p> +<p> + On Sabbath morning, June 22, 1679, the king's army, 15,000 strong, was + massed on the north bank of the Clyde; on the south side, the + Covenanters numbering 5,000 confronted them. The narrow bridge lay + between them. Hackston, Paton, and Balfour, with 300 Covenanters stood + at its south end. The rest of the army was behind them on the moor with + gunshot, standing in eleven solid squares; six banners waved proudly + over them. They had one cannon, two detachments of cavalry, and a body + of skirmishers. +</p> +<p> + Monmouth orders his troops across the bridge. A solid column pushes + forward broad as the bridge is wide; step follows step in that dread + procession, when lo, a spreading puff of smoke rises on the bank in + front, and a cannon ball is hurled among them, while muskets pour forth + volleys of death. The bridge is strewn with bleeding men and the broken + ranks fall back. The Duke orders another charge. A second column moves + hurriedly over the gory path of their fallen comrades to meet the same + fate. Again and again, the attack and the repulse. They attempt to ford + the river, but Balfour with his sharpshooters hurls them back, while + many a brave man lies down in the cool stream to rise no more. The + bridge drips with blood; the Clyde is crimsoned. After three hours the + Covenanters' ammunition fails, and Monmouth rushes the bridge. The + Covenanters meet them with swords, but are overpowered; they fall back + upon the main body and find it unfit for action. +</p> +<p> + The royal army was soon across. They line up for the general engagement, + but hesitate to give battle; they have tested the courage of the + Covenanters, and have a dread of results. Hamilton is awaiting his + opportunity. His intention is to rush the enemy into the river. He + orders a forward movement, but the order fails. Wherefore does his army + hesitate? Ah, many of the officers have disappeared. Terror is creeping + over the masses like a death chill. Welch and his friends have left; + Weir with his 140 horsemen takes fright and flees; Hamilton loses his + head and his cavalry stampedes; the army is thrown into confusion; all + is lost. In the fight only 15 were killed; in the flight 400 were + slaughtered. +</p> +<p> + Monmouth, seeing the panic, ordered a pursuit which resulted in a + running butchery, a horrid massacre. A body of 1,200 surrendered; these + were compelled to lie flat on the ground all night. If in their wounds + or achings they moved head or hand, an admonition was delivered from a + musket. A change of posture, then a sharp crack, a whizzing bullet, a + bleeding victim, a death struggle, a pallid corpse. +</p> +<p> + That was a sad Sabbath for the Covenanters. Defeat, dishonor, and + distress turned the day into a painful memory. The calamity, doubtless, + arose out of the compromise of Covenanted principles. Welch's wisdom + proved to be foolishness; Weir's strength, weakness; Hamilton's + compliance, defeat. +</p> +<p> + The sacrifice of truth can never be productive of good. Loss, sorrow, + defeat, and death are in the train of any policy that buries principle. +</p> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. How did the Covenanters follow up their victory at Drumclog? +</p> +<p> + 2 What reverse did they suffer? +</p> +<p> + 3 How did they account for it? +</p> +<p> + 4. What was the growth of their army? +</p> +<p> + 6. Who introduced confusion into their ranks? +</p> +<p> + 7. What was the subject of debate? +</p> +<p> + 8. How did it terminate? +</p> +<p> + 9. Describe the forces at the battle of Bothwell Bridge. +</p> +<p> + 10. Describe the battle and its issue. +</p> +<p> + 11. What lesson may we learn from this defeat? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0037"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXXIV. +</h2> +<h3> + THE COVENANTERS' PRISONS.—A.D. 1680. +</h3> +<p> + "They who profess Christ in this generation must suffer much or sin + much," exclaimed one of the Scottish martyrs. The enemy was in power and + every means was employed to compel the Covenanters to abandon their + Covenant with God, break relation with Jesus Christ, and thus destroy + their testimony. To accomplish this, the king and his courtiers + subjected these inoffensive people to cruelties most shocking. While + they remained steadfast in their Covenant, the violence increased; when + any of them relaxed, one step of defection necessitated another, till + they stood in the enemy's camp. The same process is ever true. +</p> +<p> + The massacre at Bothwell Bridge brought upon the Covenanters extreme + distress. Their sufferings hitherto had been as a continual dropping on + a very rainy day, with fitful gusts striking here and there; now a + hurricane sweeps the country, bringing ruin and desolation in its broad + path. Every available force was put in operation for the utter + annihilation of the Covenanters. Their ardor for Christ and His royal + rights must be quenched in their blood, and their testimony to the truth + must be silenced. The king, the courts, the army, the bishops—all were + combined for the overthrow of the Presbyterian system of faith and the + Covenant of God. Upon the ruins of the temple of liberty, erected by the + Reformers, King Charles had determined to build his castle of absolute + despotism. He knew that the glory of Christ's supremacy would never fade + out of the skies of Scotland, while Covenanters preached, prayed, and + sang Psalms; nor would his despotism flourish while there were + Covenanters to challenge his impious claim of authority over the Church, + and iniquitous attempt to rule man's conscience. Hence the desperate + attempt to overawe and suppress them. +</p> +<p> + After the battle of Bothwell Bridge, the first stroke of excessive + cruelty fell upon the 1,200 prisoners who had surrendered on the field. + They lay all night upon the cold ground huddled together like sheep, + surrounded by a strong guard. It was a night of horror. The sentinels + watched every motion, and shot at any hand or head that dared to stir. + In the morning they were marched from their mossy bivouac, leaving the + green field dotted with crimson pools, and strewn with the dead who had + received fatal shots; there they lay in garments rolled in blood. +</p> +<p> + The prisoners were tied together, two and two, and driven to Edinburgh, + as cattle to the slaughter. The journey was dreary, during which they + suffered from hunger, weariness, cruel mockings, and barbarous + treatment. In the Greyfriars' churchyard, there yet remains the small + enclosure, into which these prisoners were driven like so many dumb + animals. Here they were kept to await their sentence. Twelve hundred + men, with scarcely comfortable standing room, without decent clothing, + without sanitary accommodations, without proper food, without shelter, + detained for months within these stone walls under a merciless + guard—who can conceive of their sufferings? They had been stripped, all + but naked; the hard ground was their bed; the sky was their roof; they + were exposed to the heat of day, and the chill of night; the rains of + July drenched them; the snows of November blanketed them. +</p> +<p> + During these wearisome months the number of prisoners constantly grew + less, and mostly by melancholy means. Some of them subscribed a bond + confessing themselves to be rebels and promising unconditional obedience + to the king. The hardships of their condition, the threats against their + lives, and the entreaties of relatives overpowered conscience. They were + released only to be reproached, distressed, tormented, and pillaged at + home, by the soldiers who overran the country. Their unholy bond + sacrificed their peace with God, and brought no protection from man. + Such is the effect of every compromise of God's people with the world. +</p> +<p> + Disease also reduced the number. Sickness arising from exposure, + neglect, and ill fare, wrought havoc with their lives. The living + watched carefully over their dying companions, as they lay on the cold + hard ground, destitute of every earthly cordial and comfort. But the + Balm of Gilead they had in plenty; the consolations of God were + abundant; the promises distilled sweetness upon their lips; prayers + filled the place with incense; the Psalms were as the music of heaven in + their ears; the gates of glory opened wide for the dying; pain, sorrow, + and darkness vanished from the soul, as it went forth from the earthly + tabernacle to enter into the Eternal City. +</p> +<p> + Quite a few were condemned to death and executed on the scaffold. + Prominent among these, were John Kid and John King, two ministers of + Christ. They received their sentence with serenity and went hand in + hand, to the place of execution. Their conversation was cheerful. Their + outlook was far beyond the scaffold, and the city towers, and the high + hills outlined on the sky, and even beyond the glowing sun that was then + smiling in the west. What magnificent scenery their eyes must have + rested upon, as they now had come to Mount Zion, the city of the living + God, the innumerable company of angels, the spirits of just men made + perfect! Already in triumphant faith they were walking the golden + streets, with palms in their hands crowns on their heads, and songs in + their hearts. Kid was a witty man, usually overflowing with innocent + mirth; even in sight of the gallows his humor was insuppressible. + Looking into King's face he made a pun on their own names, saying, "I + have often heard and read of a kid sacrificed, but I seldom or never + heard of a king made a sacrifice." +</p> +<p> + Four hundred of these Covenanters remained unmoved by threats, promises, + sufferings, or protracted hardships. The painful weeks and months might + wear them out, but they continued firm in the faith and testimony, + resolved to honor their Lord and His Covenant while they had breath. + They remembered the promise, "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will + give thee a crown of life." They were of the unbending type. +</p> +<p> + The king's council, hopeless in attempting to bring them to terms, + resolved to finish the irksome task by shipping all to distant lands. + They placed 243 on a small sail-ship, which was tossed on the Atlantic + ocean until engulfed amidst the waves. The remainder were never + transported. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="475"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0035"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_35.jpg" width="470" height="350" +alt="Dunnottar Castle."> +<b>Dunnottar Castle.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +The castle rock projects into the sea, on the east coast of Scotland, + and rises with rugged sides out of the water to the height of 160 feet. + It is connected with the mainland by a narrow neck. Here is the "Whigs' + Vault," a dismal underground room, hewn out of the rock, where many + Covenanters suffered imprisonment. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Many Covenanters were confined in places even more intolerable than + this. Dunnottar Castle became one of these notable spots. The castle + stands on a + rock that projects into the sea. Here still exists a deep dark room, + called the "Whigs' Vault," where 167 Covenanters were crowded together. + Forty-five of these were women. The room is 56 feet long, 16 wide, and + 12 high, having two small windows. This outrageous disregard for sex, + decency, health, and every natural right, aroused even the indignation + of the governor's wife, at whose request the women, after some days, + were removed to another vault. The prisoners suffered the horrors of + these dark foul pits three months. But the Lord Jesus Christ did not + forsake them; they were sustained by His abundant grace. He heard their + mournful cries and upheld their faith. Some breathed out their lives on + the hard stone floor, with no pillow on which to rest their aching + heads. Blessed termination of the horrid cruelty! Even there the "pearl + gate" opened wide, and the ransomed soul arose in power, and walked + forth into the marvelous light of the world above. They who survived + death were offered liberty on condition of taking the king's oath, and + acknowledging his supremacy over Church and conscience. They + persistently refused to do this. How great the loyalty of these men and + women to the Lord Jesus Christ! Imprisonment with all its bitterness was + sweeter to them than liberty with a defiled conscience. +</p> +<p> + The Bass Rock, too, was a penitentiary for the Covenanters. This is a + lofty green rock arising boldly out of the sea near Edinburgh, having + steep rugged sides, being accessible only at one point. Thither they + brought, in the latter years of the persecution, the overflow of + prisoners after the inland jails had been crowded. The rock is very + desolate. This was the Covenanters' Patmos. Here Alexander Peden, John + Blackader, and many others spent months and years, walking round and + round over the storm-battered cliffs, or sitting on the ledges looking + landward thinking of the desolated home, the broken family, the wasted + Church, and the guilty land. When the waves dashed against the rock, and + the breakers leaped high; when storms darkened the land, and billows + whitened the sea; when nothing was heard but the noise of the waters, + the roar of the tempest, and the scream of the sea-fowl, even then was + the Holy Spirit there to illuminate these prisoners of hope. They held + communion with God; visions of glory lighted up their dreary home; they + moved amidst the scenery of heaven; the Bass rock was peopled with + angels. Blackader has left on record some rich experiences he there + enjoyed. +</p> +<p> + We are free to worship God according to conscience and the Word. But let + us not forget that our liberty is the blossom, and our privileges the + fruit, of the rough black root of persecution suffered by our + forefathers. Had they not been faithful, we would have had to fight the + battles they fought, and suffer as they suffered, or have perished in + darkness. Will not we, for the sake of coming generations, be likewise + faithful? The Lord Jesus grant us strength and success. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What was done with, the prisoners taken at Bothwell Bridge? +</p> +<p> + 2. How did they suffer in Edinburgh? +</p> +<p> + 3. Describe their prison, and their hardships. +</p> +<p> + 4. What two of their ministers were executed? +</p> +<p> + 5. Describe Dunnottar Castle. +</p> +<p> + 7. Describe the Bass Rock. +</p> +<p> + 8. For what was it used in those times? +</p> +<p> + 9. How may we meet the obligations descending from the fathers? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0038"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXXV. +</h2> +<h3> + DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE.—A.D. 1680. +</h3> +<p> + The persecution of the Covenanters under King Charles II. had now + continued twenty years. These were years of slaughter, and the horrors + were still deepening. +</p> +<p> + The battle of Bothwell Bridge was followed by a climax of suffering and + sacrifice. The wrath of the king, vented through the dragoons, fell upon + every district where the Covenanters were located and followed them into + their hiding-places. They were required to take the oath of loyalty, or + suffer the direful consequence. Some were haled to the judges to be + sentenced, others were shot like game where they were found. Like a fire + that breaks out in a city and mercilessly devours while the flames find + fuel, so this fire seemed destined to spread and devour till the last + drop of Covenanted blood would sizzle on the coals. +</p> +<p> + The persecutors were in degree successful. Four hundred ministers, in + 1662, had refused to receive orders from the king for the exercise of + their ministry; they gave up home and all its comforts, rather than + admit the king's claim of supremacy over the Church of Christ. These + were now reduced to less than one hundred. Some were martyred, some were + banished, some had died of old age and some of exposure; but many, if + not most, had been constrained to accept the Indulgence and were gone + back home. Their first love had been chilled by the wintry blasts. Their + zeal for the Lord Jesus and His testimony abated as the hardships + increased. Worn with suffering, emaciated with hunger, exposed to + danger, grey with sorrows, and the darkness deepening with no relief in + prospect, they weakened and accepted the terms of a false peace. But let + them not be judged with harshness. Our Lord has said of such, "The + spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak." The struggle lasted eight + more years, during which time there were sixty ministers standing by + their Covenant instead of four hundred, and even these sixty, almost to + a man, counted it expedient to suspend their testimony and keep silence. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="335"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0036"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_36.jpg" width="332" height="350" +alt="Claverhouse."> +<b>Claverhouse.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Claverhouse was a captain of dragoons, who pursued the Covenanters and + slaughtered them with savage atrocity. He outlived the persecution, but + was killed the next year, 1689, at the battle of Killiecrankie, fighting + against the accession of the Prince of Orange. "A shot in the left eye" + sent the reeking soul into the presence of God, whom he, in aweful + blasphemy, had promised to take into his own hands. He died at the age + of forty-six. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The real Covenanters however were not conquered. Death had slain + thousands, and defection tens of thousands, yet the faithful had not + lost heart. There was still a vigorous force of loyal men and women, + earnest quiet people, who stood fearlessly by the Covenant and Testimony + of Jesus Christ. They were called, "The remnant." With these the + Holy Spirit was pleased to clothe Himself, for the good fight of faith + which they continued with unabated ardor. They stepped into the firing + line where the shock of war was heaviest, and became the aggressive + party, demanding from the king their Covenanted rights. The Lord was + ever with them; they heard Him saying, "Be of good cheer; I have + overcome the world." Their zeal and energy were but the crested waves of + Omnipotence, the Lord's own strength surging along the strand of time, + and dashing against the rocks of wickedness and misrule—waves of Divine + energy that must yet overflow every land, overcome the whole world, and + cover the earth with glory, as the waters cover the sea. +</p> +<p> + These strong-spirited, unbending Covenanters believed that the time had + now come for a forward movement, and they accepted the task as from the + Lord. They were not merely unconquerable; they were determined to + conquer. At the beginning of the persecution they were passive, meekly + submitting to reproach, spoilation, imprisonment, and death, for + Christ's sake. This continued till patience was exhausted. +</p> +<p> + Their second attitude was that of self-defence. Oppression maketh a wise + man mad. The people came armed to the Conventicles, and with swords and + muskets met the troops that attacked the meetings. These acts of + self-defence developed into two distinct efforts to raise an army for + the redress of grievances. All this time the Covenanters recognized + Charles II. as their king. +</p> +<p> + The third attitude was that of revolution. They now had reached this + point. They challenge the king's right to reign. They resolve to take + the crown from his head, and place it upon the brow of a man worthy of + the honor, one who "feared God, and hated covetousness." What a daring + task! what courage exhibited by these men! what unbounded confidence in + the righteousness of their cause as they against all odds, all earthly + advantages, and all human wisdom, proclaim the king's forfeiture of the + throne, and face the consequences of that proclamation! +</p> +<p> + This was a forlorn battle. The distant outlook was hopeful and the final + success was assured; but the present struggle must be sanguinary and the + sacrifice of life dreadful. Every man that enlists in the army at this + stage must expect to die on the field. This bold position of the + Covenanters will surely be met by all the powers of darkness that can be + massed against them. They now unfurl the Banner for Christ's Crown and + Covenant on the very highest grounds; the persecution will therefore be + waged, if possible, with tenfold greater fierceness. The king with all + his engines of destruction will fight them most desperately; Satan with + all his hosts will assail them ferociously. How can the noble band + escape annihilation? +</p> +<p> + But who will lead the Covenanters in such a struggle? Who will command + these "little flocks of kids," when the hosts of Syria fill all the + country round about? Where are the ministers now, when the trumpet blast + proclaims a revolutionary war against the king? While the dread notes + echo from mountain to mountain, the most of them are in caves, + hidden—like Obadiah's prophets. Three, only three, step forward. These + lions of the Covenant are Cameron, Cargill, and Douglass. They grasp the + old battle-banner, and carrying it to the new position call upon the + Covenanted sons of freedom to rally under its floating folds. The + "remnant" gave a noble response. +</p> +<p> + This self-sacrificing band was merely the advance guard of a great army + that was now mustering in the providence of God for the restoration of + civil and religious liberty. Little did they expect to win under + existing conditions, but they could hold the hordes of darkness back, + till the Lord Jesus would bring up His mighty forces for the decisive + battle. They could throw themselves upon the enemy, and with the impact + stay their progress. They laid down principles and began action that + eight years later resulted in the Revolution under the Prince of Orange. + Cameron, Cargill, and Douglass began the Revolution, and William, Prince + of Orange, finished it. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters engaged in this forward movement were henceforth called + Cameronians. Richard Cameron was the leader. On the first anniversary of + the battle of Bothwell Bridge, June 22, 1680, he with 21 mounted men + rode into the quiet town of Sanquhar. They came in a martial spirit; + each horse carried a Christian swordsman; they were armed for war. + Reaching the heart of the town, they dismounted and reverently offered + prayer. They then read aloud a Declaration of War against King Charles. + This they nailed to the post at the crossroads. What a heroic + celebration of the first anniversary of their greatest defeat! The paper + carried this declaration: +</p> +<p> + "We do disown Charles Stuart as having any right, title to, or interest + in, the crown of Scotland for government. +</p> +<p> + "We, being under the Standard of our Lord Jesus Christ, do declare a war + with such a tyrant and usurper, and all the men of his practices as + enemies to our Lord Jesus Christ and His cause and Covenants." +</p> +<p> + The men then quietly rode away, while the people read the Declaration + with mingled joy and terror. The lions roared on the hills of Sanquhar, + and the king's throne trembled; within a few years the monarch and his + dynasty had disappeared from the earth. +</p> +<p> + These Covenanters prepared also another declaration which was called + the Queensferry Paper. It contained the following statement of the + principles, for which they contended: +</p> +<p> + "The avowal of the Scriptures as the only rule of faith and action; +</p> +<p> + "The promotion of the Kingdom of God by every possible and lawful + method; +</p> +<p> + "Adherence to the Covenanted Reformation of the Presbyterian Church; +</p> +<p> + "The disowning of all authority which opposes the Word of God!" +</p> +<p> + With deathless bravery, they added the following: +</p> +<p> + "We bind and oblige ourselves to defend ourselves and one another, in + the worship of God and in our natural, civil, and divine rights, till we + shall overcome, or send them down under debate to prosperity, that they + may begin where we end." +</p> +<p> + The fathers have finished their work. They nobly sustained the cause in + their day; they gave their blood freely for its success; but they were + not permitted to see the ultimate victory. The Covenant principles for + which they contended are the hope of the world. The Covenant holds forth + the highest standard for the Church and the nation. This standard must + be reached, or prophecy must fail. The struggle has descended upon us in + "debate." Will we be true to the task laid on us by the fathers, who + unfalteringly carried the Banner of the Covenant amid fiercest battles? + Will we be a strong link, or will we be a broken link, connecting the + worthy past with the golden future? Which? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. How did the true Covenanters become diminished? +</p> +<p> + 2. With what spirit did the "remnant" sustain their trials? +</p> +<p> + 3. What successive attitudes toward the king did they assume? +</p> +<p> + 4. When did they proclaim a revolutionary war against the king? +</p> +<p> + 5. Who were their leaders? +</p> +<p> + 6. Where was the declaration of war issued? +</p> +<p> + 7. What was the nature of the Queensferry declaration? +</p> +<p> + 8. Under what obligations were future generations placed? +</p> +<p> + 10. What task here has fallen to us? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0039"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXXVI. +</h2> +<h3> + AYRSMOSS.—A.D. 1680. +</h3> +<p> + Ayrsmoss is a household word among Covenanters. Here is one of the + numerous spots where temporary defeat has been transformed into + permanent glory. A granite monument with suitable inscription marks the + place and honors the fallen heroes. This is the field where Richard + Cameron with a hardy group of Covenanters met the foe, and fought the + first fight of Scotland's Revolutionary war against King Charles II. +</p> +<p> + Ayrsmoss lies in the heart of a wide solitude. The eye takes in a wild, + broken surface in all directions. Loneliness broods in the very air. The + heart grows heavy and the eyes dreamy, while we sit on a tuft of rushes + and gaze at the monument that bears the names of the worthy dead. + Reverie readily rehabilitates the landscape, and, in vision, the field + is covered again with the horrors of the engagement. The horsemen are + dashing upon each other, the air is shattered with the discharge of + guns, swords are flashing in the evening sunlight, men are falling, + blood is flowing, the Covenanters are fleeing, and—Cameron lies on the + field dead. +</p> +<p> + Richard Cameron had sounded the keynote of freedom, that reverberated + all over Scotland, and down into England, and over into Holland, and at + length struck the ears of William, Prince of Orange. Cameron and his + Covenanted associates, having disowned the authority of King Charles, + disputed by force of arms his right to reign. They had preferred three + charges against him. These were: +</p> +<p> + (1) Perjury; (2) Usurpation; (3) Tyranny. +</p> +<p> + The king had grossly violated the Covenant to which he had given his + oath. The Covenant was the Scottish Constitution of government, and the + wilful subversion of it was treason. +</p> +<p> + He had usurped authority over the Church, posing in the prerogatives of + the Lord Jesus Christ and trampling on the people's rights in the + worship of God. +</p> +<p> + He had impoverished, imprisoned, exiled, and even slaughtered his + subjects in great numbers, without other fault than their refusal to + submit conscience to his tyrannic will. +</p> +<p> + Therefore, as perjurer, usurper, and tyrant, he must face the + arbitrament of war. The proclamation has been published; the dauntless + sons of the Covenant have forced the issue. In the name of the Lord of + hosts they have unfurled the Banner for Christ's Crown and Covenant. It + may often be torn with bullets and stained with blood, but it will never + be folded till the cause of Christ and freedom prevail. These + Covenanters have resolved "to continue the struggle till they overcome, + or hand it down to posterity, that each generation may begin where the + last ended." Such was the solemn bond that bound these Covenanters by + their own voluntary action one to another, and all to God and freedom in + the worship of God through Jesus Christ. It also joined all coming + generations into an indivisible and invincible solidarity for the + defence of liberty, the triumph of righteousness, and the glory of + Christ in His Church. +</p> +<p> + The Declaration of war had been proclaimed in Sanquhar. There Cameron + with his band of twenty-one men appealed to the God of battles and + grasped the sword. They stood a few moments gazing solemnly at their + Declaration, now nailed to a post and speaking to the nation. Holding + their horses by the bridle, they tarried long enough to sing a Psalm to + the God of nations, then mounted. Ere the tramp of their steeds had died + away on the streets of Sanquhar, the news of the daring deed was + spreading over the hills. The royal army, more than 10,000 strong, was + quickly on the track of these daring revolutionists. +</p> +<p> + Cameron quailed not at the consequences of that day's work. His soul + was on fire for the honor of the Lord Jesus Christ. He had expressed a + desire to die fighting against the avowed enemies of his Lord. He never + doubted the final issue; victory was sure in the end, whatever might be + the reverses at the beginning and the losses by the way. "LET CHRIST + REIGN," he exclaimed with prophetic fire; "LET CHRIST REIGN, is a + standard that shall yet overthrow all the thrones of Europe;" and he + spoke as if his flashing eyes saw the thrones reel, and his quick ears + heard the crash of their fall. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="250"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0037"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_37.jpg" width="246" height="350" +alt="Monument at Ayrsmoss."> +<b>Monument at Ayrsmoss.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +This monument marks the grave of Richard Cameron and eight other + Covenanters, who fell on this moorland fighting for religious liberty. + The place is reached by passing from the road over a wide mossy field. + The solitude is oppressive with solemn tragic memories. These heroes + were martyrs who faithfully sealed their testimony with their blood. + This battle was fought on July 22, 1680. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + One brief month lay between Sanquhar and Ayrsmoss. Cameron and his + little company moved cautiously over the desolate places. They roamed + across the dreary moorlands, slept amidst the flowering heather, and + pillowed their weary heads on the moss. The cold ground was their + mattress; the chilling mist was their covering; the arching sky was + their roof; the silent stars were their sentinels; the Lord God Almighty + was their keeper. Thus they awaited the day of battle. Cameron betimes + enjoyed the hospitality of friends who risked their lives in receiving + him under their roof. +</p> +<p> + July 22, 1680, was the eventful day. The little band had strolled into + the heart of this waste moor. Here were threescore valiant men, of the + valiant of Israel. "They all held swords, being expert in war: every man + had his sword upon his thigh, because of fear in the night." The actual + number was sixty-three, twenty-three men were mounted. They hung about + Cameron who never wearied in preaching Christ to their hungry souls. + This day his voice was unusually solemn. He had an inward assurance that + the sun, which was now flooding the landscape with glory and taking the + chill of the night out of his veins, would glance its setting rays upon + his blood and theirs, poured out upon that field. It was now 4 o'clock; + the men were resting on the little knolls that studded the moor; their + horses were grazing by their side; all eyes were often scanning the + horizon; any minute danger might loom up. +</p> +<p> + "They come!" cried one who saw a troop verging on the moor. In a moment + the sixty-three were on their feet; the horses were mounted and every + man drew his weapon. Captain Hackston, a veteran in the Covenanted + cause, took command. Cameron offered a prayer; his recorded prayer was + not a plea for safety nor for victory, but that God would "spare the + green and take the ripe." They chose their ground, and waited the coming + of Captain Bruce with 120 troopers. With grim determination they watched + the dragoons cover the ground. Every man was ready, every nerve was + steady. The Covenanters had the courage of conscience; they knew they + were in the right; their hearts sustained them; their Covenant + reinforced them; they were assured of + ultimate success. They will certainly achieve all that is best for this + time, and for this occasion. Even a crushing defeat will be a moral + victory. The outcome will be according to the will of God, and a + necessary event in the progress of Christ's kingdom. +</p> +<p> + These men were sent forward, to stand on the firing line, and show the + spirit, the courage, and the faith of the soldiers of Christ; behind + them the spiritual world was filled with the armies of God. His + twenty-thousand chariots and thousands of angels, were coming up for the + successive engagements, that will yet fill the world with righteousness + and the heavens with praise. +</p> +<p> + Bruce and his troop were received with a deadly volley; many of their + saddles were emptied. Hackston led his horsemen in a desperate charge; + he almost split the enemy's force in two; but his men being few, the + dragoons enveloped him. His horse bogged; he dismounted, and used his + sword with fearful effect. At last he fell, bleeding from many wounds. + The Covenanters were overwhelmed and driven from the field. Nine lay + dead, among whom was Richard Cameron. Twenty-six were killed on the + other side, so steady the nerve and deliberate the aim of the + Covenanters in the face of crushing odds. The war for freedom was now + on; the first blood was shed and had consecrated Ayrsmoss. But the prize + of liberty was of high value; other fields must yet be crimsoned with + streams flowing from many a heart. +</p> +<p> + Our enjoyment of civil and religious liberty is so constant and ordinary + that we scarcely wait a moment to think of the original cost. What pangs + of sorrow, what years of hardships, what streams of blood our fathers + paid for the inheritance of truth and freedom they have left their + children! Let us be careful to appreciate the blood-bought blessings + lest they flee away. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What monument has been erected at Ayrsmoss? +</p> +<p> + 2. What previous proclamation occasioned this battle? +</p> +<p> + 3. What charges did the Covenanters prefer against the king? +</p> +<p> + 4. How long after the declaration till this fight occurred? +</p> +<p> + 5. How did Cameron and his associates employ their time? +</p> +<p> + 6. Who appeared in search of them? +</p> +<p> + 7. How many men were on each side? +</p> +<p> + 8. Who won the battle? +</p> +<p> + 9. How account for God's people suffering defeat? +</p> +<p> + 10. What was the cost of the liberty we enjoy? +</p> +<p> + 11. How should we guard it for other generations? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0040"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXXVII. +</h2> +<h3> + THE CAMERONIANS.—A.D. 1681. +</h3> +<p> + Richard Cameron had fallen in the battle at Ayrsmoss; but the cause had + not failed, nor would he be forgotten. "The righteous shall be in + everlasting remembrance." His years were brief, but his work was great. + He was fresh and hearty, in the very prime of his life when he met + death. The sun had only reached the meridian of his sky. While his + powers were glowing with divine energy, and his ministry was making the + deepest impression, the Lord called him home to glory. The translation + from earth to heaven was sudden and sublime. One of the poets has + painted his own conception of the event in a brilliant poem, entitled, + "The Cameronian's Dream." That noble life, so full of zeal, action, and + power, left a lasting imprint on the Church of the Covenanters. So + mighty was his influence that the people who stood strictly to the + Covenant were henceforth called Cameronians. +</p> +<p> + The field of Ayrsmoss presented a sad sight that evening. The departing + day may have flung over it a glowing sunset, but nothing could relieve + the gloom. The light was fading as the dragoons left, taking with them + Captain Hackston and a few other bleeding prisoners. Night settled + softly upon the moorland; the shout of the captains had given place to + the stillness of death. Nine noble defenders of the Covenant lay + pulseless in the dewy grass. The friends, soon as safety permitted, came + and, gathering the bodies together, solemnly and sadly buried them in + one broad grave. The present monument marks the spot where the precious + dust awaits the resurrection. +</p> +<p> + The head and hands of Cameron were cut off and carried in ignoble + triumph through the streets of Edinburgh. The head was elevated on the + point of a spear and borne in front of the prisoners to the city jail. + Cameron's father was a prisoner there at that time. The head and hands + were presented to him, with the sneering question, "Do you know them?" + The aweful shock quickly gave place to a gush of fatherly affection. The + blood, the pallor, even the stare of the lifeless face, seemed to + disappear in the heart-kindlings of the aged parent; to him the + countenance was sweet as ever, the eyes were beaming, the lips were + vocal, the brow was wreathed with holy dignity. A thousand tender scenes + of the past must have rushed in upon the soul of the agitated father. He + took up the cold pieces, dearer to him than his own flesh and, while + tears flowed plentifully, kissed them, saying, "I know them; they are my + son's; my own dear son's: the Lord can harm neither me nor mine; good is + the will of the Lord." +</p> +<p> + Cameron lived in the most critical period of the Covenanted cause. His + life of service and sacrifice arose into gigantic strength just when the + Covenanted Reformation seemed to be ready for burial. The floodtide of + Indulgence had almost submerged the testimony of the Covenanters. Many + of the ministers had been caught in that Satanic snare. The remainder + were overawed, or disabled with disease and old age. Yet there was a + host of brave men and honorable women, thousands in number, who without + a leader faced the increasing' fierceness of the persecution, and + continued their testimony for Christ in defiance of the king's wrath. + These were called the Society People, and Cameron during his public + ministry was their standard-bearer. +</p> +<p> + Cameron and the Society People, afterward known as the Cameronians, have + been severely criticised for their exclusiveness. They refused to hold + fellowship with the Indulged ministers who had assented to the king's + supremacy over the Church, and likewise with the Field-ministers, who + had become mute on the Covenanted testimony. They are often represented + as having been stern, censorious, and uncharitable in the extreme. A + glance at Cameron's commission will show how baseless is the charge. +</p> +<p> + Richard Cameron received ordination in Holland, four months after the + battle of Bothwell Bridge. The ordination service was very solemn and + touching. The presbytery felt that they were commissioning a servant of + God to do a work that would cost his life. While the ministers rented + their hands on Cameron's head in the act of ordination, he was told by + one of them, that the head whereon their hands were laid would one day + be severed from his body and set up before the sun and moon for public + view. Such was the vision of blood that moved before his eyes during the + eight months of his ministry. At that same time he received also the + exhortation: "Go, Richard; the public Standard of the Gospel is fallen + in Scotland; go home and lift the fallen Standard, and display it + publicly before the world. But before you put your hand to it, go to as + many of the Field-ministers as you can find, and give them your hearty + invitation to go with you." +</p> +<p> + True to his commission Cameron went. He sought out the Field-ministers. + They now numbered about sixty. These were keeping close to their + hiding-places; their voices scarcely went beyond the mouth of their + caves; they counted their blood more valuable than their testimony for + Christ and His Covenant. Twenty years of unabating hardships had + unnerved them; the late avalanche of the king's wrath had overwhelmed + them; they were mostly mute in witnessing for Christ, as the rocks + behind which they were hiding. +</p> +<p> + Of the sixty ministers Cameron found only two who were willing to stand + with him and hold up the Banner of the Covenant before the eyes of the + nation. One of these, Thomas Douglas, quickly disappeared leaving + Cameron and Cargill alone to lead the Covenanted people of God in the + fight that was growing harder every day. These two dauntless ministers + of Christ accepted the responsibility, knowing too well the price to be + paid was their own blood. And they have been censured for their + exclusiveness. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="400"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0038"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_38.jpg" width="395" height="350" +alt="Four Young Covenanters Discovered"> +<b>Four Young Covenanters Discovered</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +These young men had left their homes to save their lives. They lived + among the hills, hid in the caves, slept on the ground, had little to + eat, and were always in danger. They evidently had come here to sun + themselves after a chilly night, and to comfort one another in Jesus + Christ. They were found and sentenced to be shot. They said to their + accusers, "If we had a hundred lives, we would willingly quit them all, + for the truth of Christ". +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Twenty years previous, the Covenanted ministers numbered one thousand. + More than half of these had violated the Covenant by a resolution in + 1650, to open the offices of public trust to men without moral + qualification. Will the minority be censured for not following them? In + 1662, the ministerial brotherhood was again rent in twain by the king's + decree requiring them to submit, or quit the manse. Four hundred refused + to comply. Will they be censured for withdrawing from their brethren who + remained? In later years the Indulgences followed, one after another, + capturing all except sixty. Will the sixty be censured for not following + the others in submitting to the king's supremacy over the Church? And + now all but two suspend the public testimony for Christ's crown. Will + the two be censured for separating from the sixty, and holding forth the + Banner of Christ? +</p> +<p> + Cameron and Cargill, with the Society people, stood on a basis separated + from their brethren who had stepped off the basis, and had left them to + struggle alone against mighty odds and fierce enemies, for the + Covenanted Reformation to which all were bound by a solemn oath. These + men, with the Society people at their back, stood by their Covenant and + the oath of God, the others had departed. Censure the Cameronians for + exclusiveness? Rather, be sincere and censure them for not slipping, and + stumbling, and falling away, like their brethren from Covenant + attainments. These worthies stood on the heights from which the others + had departed, and waving the old battle-worn colors of the Covenant + appealed unto them to come up and occupy the ground where they had + formerly stood. +</p> +<p> + The Cameronians maintained a high position; but it was not chimerical or + theoretical; it was practical and Scriptural; here was solid ground, a + rock-foundation. On it were no sidings, no off-sets, no bogs. The truths + they held were clear, clean-cut, adamantine, foundational, and + unchangeable. Their oath bound them to defend the sovereignty of Christ, + the kingdom of God, and the Reformed religion. +</p> +<p> + The banner still floats up there in the care of a few successors. Under + the Lord of hosts, the Captain of the Covenant, they continue to this + day without a thought of retreating, and trailing their colors in the + dust. They are confident that Churches and nations will yet reach the + heights of Covenant doctrine and fidelity under Jesus Christ. The bane + of the Churches to-day is the slanting ground, adown which an evil + influence is steadily drawing the people lower and lower. But in the + last days the Holy Spirit will be poured out upon all flesh; then shall + the world have a spiritual resurrection, and a glorious ascension to + Covenant grounds, through the Lord Jesus Christ, "to whom be dominion + and majesty for ever and ever." "The mountain of the Lord's house shall + be established in the top of the mountains; and shall be exalted above + the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it." +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Describe Ayrsmoss on the night after the battle? +</p> +<p> + 2. What did the enemy do with Cameron's body? +</p> +<p> + 3. How did Cameron's life and death impress the Covenanters? +</p> +<p> + 4. Why were the Cameronians called extremists? +</p> +<p> + 5. Were they justifiable in separating from others? +</p> +<p> + 6. Who joined Cameron in carrying out his commission? +</p> +<p> + 7. What is the true position of Covenanters? +</p> +<p> + 8. What is their mission in the world? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0041"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXXVIII. +</h2> +<h3> + THE LONE STAR.—A.D. 1681. +</h3> +<p> + Donald Cargill was at this time the only minister of the Society people. + He was the Lone Star appearing in the firmament of the Covenanted + Church. The night was very cloudy. The storm of persecution had darkened + the land; the defection of the Church had deepened the darkness; the + wrath of the Lord, against the persecuting nation and the + Covenant-breaking Church, had covered Scotland with a woeful night. The + stars had disappeared till one alone, a solitary orb, had power + sufficient to pierce the deadly gloom with its lustrous rays. +</p> +<p> + Donald Cargill was the Elijah of his day, the solitary standard-bearer + of the Covenant after the death of Cameron. Doubtless there were seven + thousand, yea, seven thousand twice told, who had not bowed the knee to + Baal; but they were hidden in caves and in holes of the rocks, waiting + for some terrible display of the power and glory of the Lord. There were + many stars, but the night was too dark for them to shine; also they had + become almost nebulous. Even Alexander Peden, Scotland's fiery prophet, + who never weakened in the Covenant nor waned in his brilliant + career—even he did not identify with the Cameronians in the declaration + of war against King Charles and the demand for his abdication. Cargill + was the lone leader of the dreadless Covenanters in their new and + aggressive movement. +</p> +<p> + The last years of Cargill were his best, and his last services were his + greatest. He grew like the cedar, increasing in strength, usefulness, + and dignity till cut down by death. His zeal leaped into flames with the + adverse winds: he did his noblest works when he was most sorely pressed. + He conducted divine services even when wounded and bleeding; he carried + the gashes of the sword into the pulpit and the scars of battle down to + the grave. A glance at his wonderful career should be inspiring. +</p> +<p> + Even in childhood Cargill was noted for prayer. He grew up on a + beautiful farm where the fields dip into the shady valley and ascend the + lofty hills. Rugged nature taught the opening child-life to take on much + beauty, grandeur, and dignity. He loitered often on the confines of the + higher world in his meditations and in prayer. But especially the altar + of worship, the family Bible, the fireside catechising, the stern + discipline, and the solemn Sabbaths moulded the boy and awakened the + powers that distinguished the man. Family religion, which was strict, + solemn, and awe-inspiring made heroes of the men of the Covenant. + Without family religion the children may be expected to become moral + imbeciles and spiritual ciphers. +</p> +<p> + When Cargill was yet a youth, he was known to spend whole nights in + prayer. What those nights must have been to that young heart! What + unfoldings of the Gospel and of the love of God! What revelations of the + beauties of Christ, the preciousness of His blood, and the treasures of + His Covenant! What insight into the value of the soul and its commission + from God! What views of stewardship, accountability, rewards, + punishments, destiny, eternity! What visions of the kingdom of the Lord + Jesus Christ, His royal rights, His glory and majesty, His jealousy over + the Church, His indignation against evil, His vindication of right! What + those nights of prayer must have been to that boyish heart! The Holy + Spirit came down upon the tender suppliant; the glory of the Lord shone + round about him; the heavens bent and burst with blessings above his + head; he made many an incursion into the upper world. What a wonderful + life we may expect to arise out of a beginning like this! Look out for + the boy that spends whole nights in prayer, or even whole hours talking + with God! Assuredly the outcome will be amazing. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="230"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0039"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_39.jpg" width="225" height="350" +alt="Donald Cargill."> +<b>Donald Cargill.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Donald Cargill received the martyr's crown in 1681, after passing + through 20 years of persecution. He died on the scaffold at the age of + 71. Standing beneath the rope he exclaimed, "This is the sweetest and + most glorious day that ever mine eyes did see." He sang Psalm 118, from + the 16th verse. Then crying out in a rapture of joy, "Welcome, Father, + Son, and Holy Ghost, into Thy hands I commit my spirit," he entered + within the veil. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Courage was prominent among the qualities that brought Cargill to the + front and made him one of Scotland's many mighties. He was afraid of + nothing except God's displeasure. His towering intellect, polished with + education, instructed in the Bible, and irradiant with the Holy Spirit, + gave him a wide horizon. He made the throne of the Lord Jesus Christ his + viewpoint, and therefore saw things in their true relation. He had a + strong, spiritual grasp of the truths of Christ and His universal + dominion. He saw Jesus crowned with many crowns; the Church united to + Christ in marriage; and all the universe subject to Christ for the + Church's sake. Cargill's clear and comprehensive view of Christ and His + universal dominion enabled him to take the right side in the great + struggle that was then shaking Scotland's foundations. He wisely chose + the strong side. He cast his lot in with the poor "remnant," who were + hunted, captured, and executed as fast as the bloodhounds of King + Charles could do their cruel work. Most men called this the weak side, + but Cargill's eyes took in the spiritual world. He gazed upon the + infinite power of God, the omnipotence of truth, the armies of heaven. + He knew that all the forces of righteousness were moving forward in + matchless harmony in support of the "remnant" who kept faith with the + Lord Jesus Christ. In the consciousness of this almighty strength, which + was at his back, how could he be afraid? +</p> +<p> + Cargill accepted the office of the Gospel ministry with a deep sense of + unworthiness. When urged to enter the ministry he hesitated and spent a + day in fasting and prayer to discover the mind of the Lord. God spoke to + him by sending into his heart the irresistible command: "Son of man, eat + this roll, and go speak unto the house of Israel." He took this to be + the answer, as these words rang in his ears day and night. He hesitated + no longer; from that time he was consecrated to the work of the Gospel, + and his zeal made him a bright target for the foe. +</p> +<p> + His regular service on one occasion fell on the anniversary of the + king's restoration to the throne. The house was crowded; the country was + rejoicing with the king, though he had already launched upon the crimson + tide of persecution. Casting a glance over the audience and judging that + many had come to do the king honor, his soul flamed into indignation, + and his eyes flashed with scorn for the crowned murderer. "We are not + here," said he, "to keep this day as others keep it. We thought once to + bless the day when the king came home again, but now we have reason to + curse it. If any of you have come to solemnize this day, we desire you + to remove." Then arising into passionate vehemence, he cried, "Woe, woe, + woe unto the king! His name shall be a stench while the world stands, + for treachery, tyranny, and lechery." From that day they sought his + life to take it away; yet he lived and preached twenty more years. +</p> +<p> + Cargill's life was tossed about on roughest waves. He made many narrow + escapes. Near his early home lies a deep valley, adown which a mountain + stream rushes within a rock-rimmed channel, churning itself into milky + whiteness. On one occasion he was pursued by soldiers all the way from + Dundee, nine miles distant. He fled down the steep cliff and leaped the + chasm. The soldiers following him came to the spot but dared not to + jump. Cargill walked up the opposite embankment and escaped. Being + reminded one day that he had made a good leap he humorously replied, + "Yes, but I had a good run before the leap." +</p> +<p> + At another time he saw a group of soldiers approaching in search of him. + He coolly walked forward and, taking a square look at them, went on. + They not knowing him personally never once thought that a man of such an + airy countenance could be the one for whom they were searching. At + Queensferry the house still stands where he and Captain Hall were + arrested. The brave Captain threw himself between Cargill and the + officer. The struggle was a tough one; Hall was mortally wounded; + Cargill, too, was much hurt but escaped. But this did not prevent him + from keeping his engagement at a Conventicle; he preached in his wounds. + Nothing but death seemed able to check this man of God in the work of + the Gospel. His greatest service however is yet to be related. +</p> +<p> + Have we incorporated the element of Divine strength into our lives? Do + we make the throne of Jesus our viewpoint, from whence we see all things + related to Him, and through Him to each other? Do we stand for the + right, however weak that side may seem, knowing that all the powers that + be of God are on that side? The times call for heroic lives, men who + will not flinch under reproach, nor apologize for their convictions; men + who will support the truth at any cost, and denounce sin at every + hazard. Can the Church now furnish such men? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Who succeeded Cameron as leader of the Society people? +</p> +<p> + 2. Tell something about Cargill's early life. +</p> +<p> + 3. How was he influenced to become a minister? +</p> +<p> + 4. What objection had he to the king's anniversary? +</p> +<p> + 5. What dangers did he meet? +</p> +<p> + 6. How did he persist in the work of the Gospel? +</p> +<p> + 7. Describe the strong side of every good cause. +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0042"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XXXIX. +</h2> +<h3> + AN EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE.—A.D. 1681. +</h3> +<p> + The severity of the persecution had now driven the Conventicles into the + most solitary places. Very few ministers at this period ventured, under + any circumstances, to preach at the Field-meetings. Cargill survived + Cameron a little more than one year. They had been accustomed to attend + these meetings together; their fellowship in the ministry of Christ was + a mutual joy. They were equally yoked and made a strong team. Where the + two preached the people had a great feast. But death had separated them; + Cargill keenly felt the bereavement. He was thereafter like a dove + mourning the loss of its mate. He preached a touching sermon on the + Sabbath after Cameron's death, taking his text from King David's elegy + over the death of Abner: "There is a prince and a great man fallen this + day in Israel." +</p> +<p> + Cargill was now seventy years old; grey, worn, and weakened with the + terrible experiences that had crowded into his persecuted life. His last + year was a fitting climax, the best of all his years in the Lord's + service. The notes of his trumpet were always vigorous and decisive; + one blast, however, was especially loud, long, and clear, the like of + which the world had never heard. +</p> +<p> + This preacher of righteousness denounced sin with unsparing keenness. He + was no respecter of persons; the king got his share of reproof and + admonition, equally with the lowliest in the land. He was very jealous + for the Lord God of hosts, and could brook no indignity to Christ. +</p> +<p> + King Charles had done dishonor of the darkest kind to the Lord Jesus. He + had grasped at the Crown of Christ, had broken the holy Covenant, had + crushed the Church, and had shed the blood of the saints. The sight of + such horrible wickedness made Cargill's blood boil, and his sermons + arose betimes in passionate eloquence against the guilty king. On one + occasion he poured out upon the royal head a triple woe. This could + never be pardoned by the crowned murderer of God's people. The king + pursued him with vengeful wrath. A price equal to $1,200 was offered for + his head, alive or dead. Twenty years and more the bloodhounds of + persecution were on his track. Twenty years, with the sword hanging over + the head, makes a solemn life. Twenty years, amidst the hardships and + horrors of persecution, gives a rich experience. Twenty years, in the + furnace heated seven times more than it is wont, makes a pure soul. + Twenty years, hiding under the shadow of the Most High, makes a powerful + preacher. It was said of him, as of his Master, though in a lesser + sense, "Never man spake like this man." His voice reached wide circles, + resounded across broad glades, and echoed from rugged mountain sides. + Thousands were melted by his tender words, and many were swung into line + with the Covenant by his forceful logic. He spoke out of deep + experience, pleading as a man who stood in the glare of Christ's + judgment seat. While he preached, the eternal world seemed irradiant + about him. Some of his discourses have been preserved by the press. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="355"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0040"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_40.jpg" width="351" height="350" +alt="Earlston Castle"> +<b>Earlston Castle</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +This castle is very ancient. The Earlstons were zealous reformers for + many generations. They suffered much in the persecution, and furnished + at least one martyr, William Gordon, a young man who was apprehended on + his way to the battle of Bothwell Bridge, and shot on the road. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Cargill's sermons and prayers were usually short. He once received a + gentle reproof for his brevity. He was holding a Conventicle; the people + had come a long distance for the preaching; they hungered and thirsted + for God and His Word. The great congregation was feasting on the rich + abundance of the Gospel, and hanging on the lips of the minister, when + he suddenly stopped. He had finished. One of the hearers, who felt that + only a slice of bread was given, when a loaf was needed, approached him + and said, "Oh, sir, 'tis long betwixt meals, and we are in a starving + condition, and it is sweet and good and wholesome which ye deliver; but + why do ye straiten us so much for shortness?" Cargill replied, "Ever + since I bowed the knee in good earnest to pray, I + never durst pray or preach with my gifts; and when my heart is not + affected, and comes not up with my mouth, I always thought it time for + me to quit. What comes not from my heart, I have little hope that it + will go to the heart of others." He was able to distinguish between the + product of his own gifts and that of the Holy Spirit. The one is like + bubbles on the water for hungry souls; the other like the grapes of + Eschol. +</p> +<p> + The most notable event in the career of Cargill was the excommunication + of the king, and six of his accomplices, from the Covenanted Church. + These seven men were the chief persecutors at that time. Formerly they + had been Covenanters, but had abandoned the Covenant, and had fallen + into excessive wickedness. The Church had never dealt with their cases; + she had lost the power. The Church courts were controlled by the king. + But shall discipline, therefore, fail? Can the Church no more sustain + her laws, and administer her censures? Is she incapacitated? + Extraordinary conditions justify extraordinary methods. Cargill + conceived the bold purpose of issuing these cases, and inflicting the + censures, solitary and alone, as a minister of Christ Jesus. Not in the + spirit of revenge, nor as a vain anathema, but by the authority of God, + in the name of Christ, and with profound sense of responsibility did he + mete out the spiritual penalty unto these blood-stained and impenitent + transgressors. The indestructible vitality of the Church thus reappeared + in that dread act. +</p> +<p> + This action was taken at a Conventicle held at Torwood early in the + autumn of 1680. The attendance was large. The people knew not what was + coming. Cargill was much animated. After a powerful sermon, he proceeded + with the act of excommunication. The form was this: +</p> +<p> + "I, being a minister of Jesus Christ, and having authority from Him, do, + in His name, and by His Spirit, excommunicate, cast out of the true + Church, and deliver up to Satan, Charles II., upon these grounds: (1) + His mocking of God; (2) His great perjury; (3) His rescinding all laws + for establishing the Reformation; (4) His commanding armies to destroy + the Lord's people; (5) His being an enemy to true Protestants; (6) His + granting remission and pardon to murderers; (7) His adulteries." +</p> +<p> + Cargill knew that he would be adversely judged, by future generations, + for what he had done; many would regard the excommunication as + unreasonable and unwarrantable. He, therefore, adventured his reputation + and authority on a prophecy, which he uttered in his sermon on the next + Sabbath: "If these men die the ordinary death of men, then God hath not + spoken by me." King Charles was poisoned; the Duke of York died raving + under the sentence; McKenzie died with blood flowing from many parts of + his body; the Duke of Monmouth was executed; Dalziel died while + drinking, without a moment of warning; Lauderdale sank into dotage + through excessive indulgence; the Duke of Rothes passed into eternity in + despair. The prophecy had its terrible fulfilment, to the last man. "It + is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." +</p> +<p> + Not much now remained for Cargill to do. A few more Conventicles, the + acknowledgment of Christ's supremacy before the judges, a public + testimony on the scaffold; then the blood can flow, and seal the truth, + which he loved so well to preach. His pursuers at length discovered him. + Great was the rejoicing of his enemies when he was found, and bound, and + hastened to prison. His trial was swift, issuing in the death sentence. + His execution quickly followed. When he came to the gibbet, he placed + his back against the ladder, and addressed the throng that had gathered + to witness his last struggle. The venerable face beamed with happiness. + That morning he had written some of his flowing thoughts. Here is one of + them: "This is the most joyful day I ever saw; my joy is now begun never + to be interrupted." His soul was stirring with divine raptures; the + glory of heaven was breaking around him. The thrill of youthful life + again quickened his pulse; he wheeled about and mounted the scaffold, + saying, "The Lord knows I go up this ladder with less fear and + perturbation of mind than ever I entered the pulpit to preach." Having + reached the platform, where the rope was waiting for his neck, he bade + adieu to earth, and welcome to heaven. "Farewell," he exclaimed; + "Farewell, all relations and friends in Christ; farewell acquaintances + and all earthly enjoyments; farewell reading and preaching, praying and + believing, wanderings and reproaches and sufferings. Welcome joy + unspeakable and full of glory. Welcome Father, Son, and Holy Ghost! into + Thy hands I commit my spirit." What was death to a man like that but the + beginning of glory! The black scaffold was lighted up with the radiance + that streamed through the pearl gates. +</p> +<p> + How much does the spirit of zeal, courage, witness-bearing, and + discipline, stir the descendants of the martyred Covenanters in the + present day? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What may be said of Cargill's last years of service? +</p> +<p> + 2. How many years of persecution did he suffer? +</p> +<p> + 3. What aroused him against the king? +</p> +<p> + 4. What official act did he perform on the king and six others? +</p> +<p> + 5. What was the nature of this excommunication? +</p> +<p> + 6. How did he protect himself against wrong criticism? +</p> +<p> + 7. Was his prophecy fulfilled? +</p> +<p> + 8. How did Cargill die? +</p> +<p> + 9. What service is much neglected in the Church in our day? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0043"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XL. +</h2> +<h3> + THE SOCIETIES.—A.D. 1682. +</h3> +<p> + After the death of Cameron, the Covenanters of the Cameronian type + formed themselves into societies for the worship of God, for their own + spiritual edification, and for the defence of the Covenant. Half a dozen + families or more, having the same faith, spirit, and purpose, met + together on the Sabbath day, to engage in social worship. This was + called a society. +</p> +<p> + Those were days of woeful declension. Defection had swept the great body + of Covenanters from their basis. Under the strain of persecution and the + snare of the royal Indulgence, many ministers and people had abandoned + wholly, or in degree, Reformation grounds. The Society People alone + refused to make concessions by which truth would be suppressed, + conscience defiled, or any divine principle surrendered. They stood by + the Covenant, and accepted the consequences, including hardest service + and greatest sufferings. +</p> +<p> + The Society People have been censured for exclusiveness; they refused to + associate with others in the worship of God, and would hear no ministers + except their own. But why? Consider their reason, then let them be + judged. These people stood alone simply because they had been left + alone; these soldiers of Christ had been deserted while holding the + ground won by their fathers at the cost of much blood. They stood where + the Lord Jesus Christ had placed them, giving them a solemn charge to + keep the oath, and defend His royal rights. Should they then be + reprimanded, for not joining in the general stampede? What saith the + Lord? "If any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him." +</p> +<p> + From the fortress of the Covenant these veterans of Christ heroically + waved the Blue Banner, declaring to their brethren, and to the world, + that by the grace of God they would never surrender. They were the real + Covenanters, the true blue, the old stock. They were not a faction; they + were the remnant. They stood on the original ground; the others had + broken the Covenant and had departed. These were the core, the center, + the substance, the personnel, the integral force, the organized body, + the visible form, of the Covenanted Church in those days. The Societies + were the continuity of the Church that had flourished in the days of + Knox, and took on later and greater glory in the times of Henderson. + They were the same Church, holding the same faith, the same Covenant, + and the same services. +</p> +<p> + The Society People were not the branch; they were, the trunk from which + the branches had fallen. The branches were strewn around; but the trunk, + though broken and disfigured, was still deeply rooted in Covenant soil, + and full of life. +</p> +<p> + The persecutors more than ever concentrated their fire upon these + people. They were pursued and shot like game. Liberal rewards were + offered for their leaders. Yet they stood by their Covenant; they would + not yield an hairbreadth. Fidelity to Christ swallowed up every other + consideration; it was the burning passion of their lives. +</p> +<p> + These societies were numerous, extending over a wide area. They were + held together by delegations which met quarterly. By this means harmony + of spirit, purpose, and action was preserved. They stood like a square + of veterans, facing the enemy on every side. They even took aggressive + steps, delivering in the most public manner their testimony against the + tyranny of the king and the defection of the Church. The minutes of + these General Meetings have been preserved; they furnish interesting + reading. +</p> +<p> + After the death of Cargill these people had no minister. A few + ministers, like Alexander Peden, were still untainted, but they would + not join these strong-headed Covenanters in their war against the king. + They regarded the Society People as extremists and fanatics. The + societies suffered more seriously from reproach and misrepresentation by + the brethren than from persecution, though that was growing fiercer + every day. But these were men who reckoned with conscience and with God; + not with consequences nor with man. Fidelity to Christ was their first + and only choice. +</p> +<p> + These immovable Covenanters were now undergoing the severest trial of + faith. They were hunted, seized, tortured, shot, hanged, destroyed, in + the most infernal manner. They were shown neither mercy nor justice. But + the most crushing distress was the reproach heaped upon them by + retrograde Covenanters. By these they were defamed as dangerous men, + disloyal to their country and a disgrace to religion. All the ministers, + through fear or with scorn, had forsaken them. This was harder to endure + than fire, gibbet, and sword combined. They issued a pathetic call to + the pastors to come back and tend this flock of God. The call was like + the wail of lost children crying for a father's care and pity. It + contained these assuring words: +</p> +<p> + "We will hear all ministers, whether in houses or fields, who will + preach according to the Word of God, our Covenants, Confession of Faith, + and Catechisms, Larger and Shorter, that will embrace this, our call." +</p> +<p> + The call was presented to as many as could be found, and was declined by + every one. These that declined their call were the ministers who, twenty + years previous, had been expelled from their churches, because they + would not abandon their Covenant and submit to the king. And these were + the people who had followed them into the wilderness, gathered about + them in great Conventicles, enjoyed wonderful Communions under their + ministry, and adventured their lives in their defence. Now the flock was + forsaken; the shepherds had fled. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="260"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0041"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_41.jpg" width="258" height="350" +alt="St. Sebastian Church, Rotterdam, Holland."> +<b>St. Sebastian Church, Rotterdam, Holland.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +In the times of persecution many Covenanters fled to Holland for safety. + Here they found a city of refuge. The city council gave them the use of + this church for worship. The building is very ancient, and yet it is in + a good state of preservation. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + These people, however, were not to be despised. They were numerous; a + few years later, upon an emergency, they mustered a regiment for their + country's defence without the beat of a drum, and announced that another + regiment or two would follow if needed. They were courageous; they gave + a most aggressive testimony at Lanark against the king and the + defections of the times. They were intelligent; they ably defended their + principles and position both in speech and in print. They were + consecrated; they made their appeal always to God, to the Covenant, to + conscience, and to the enlightened judgment of Christendom. +</p> +<p> + The General Meeting resolved, in 1682, to educate four young men for the + ministry, among whom was James Renwick. These were sent to college. + Renwick was ordained in 1684. +</p> +<p> + Each society endeavored to hold a meeting every Sabbath for Divine + worship. This went far to supply the spiritual nourishment which the + ministers had + failed to give. The "Society" is a sweet memory, lingering still in the + hearts of some of our aged people. There are Covenanters who can yet + recall the old-fashioned prayer meeting, then known as the Society which + descended from the times of persecution They can remember how half a + dozen families, sometimes more, sometimes less, came quietly together on + Sabbath morning to one of their homes. The atmosphere, within and + without, was pervaded with holy awe. A quiet joy, subdued with gravity, + beamed in all faces. The largest room in the house was crowded with men, + women, and children; the chairs were supplemented with boards, cushioned + with quilts, for seats. At 11 a.m. the worship of God began. +</p> +<p> + Order of exercises: +</p> +<ul><li> + A Psalm announced, a blessing invoked singing the Psalm, reading a + chapter, and prayer by the leader. +</li> +<li> + Bible verse announced, statement of doctrine and remarks. +</li> +<li> + A second Psalm, chapter, and prayer. +</li> +<li> + Reading in the Confession of Faith or in a sermon. +</li> +<li> + A third Psalm, chapter, and prayer. +</li> +<li> + The children reciting Psalms and Questions. +</li> +<li> + The Shorter Catechism recited by the whole house. +</li> +<li> + A fourth Psalm, followed with a short prayer. +</li> +<li> + Adjournment at 3 p.m. +</li> +</ul> +<p> + These societies were the deep roots of the Covenanted Church. By means + of them, she became thoroughly indoctrinated in the Word of God and His + holy Covenant. In these meetings the elders became like ministers in the + knowledge of Christ, and the people like elders. The feeble in Israel + waxed strong as the house of David, and the house of David as the angel + of the Lord. There were giants in those days. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanted Church must revive the society spirit and exercises, if + she would recover her vitality; she must resume these spiritual + athletics if she would feel the glow of healthy vigor. These roots have + suffered decay; therefore the trees are easily upturned. When Social + worship of God characterizes the Church, the people will take on + strength and be able to stand amidst the spiritual landslides and + general defection that characterizes the times in which we live. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. How did the Covenanted Societies survive the general defection? +</p> +<p> + 2. How did they succeed when they had no ministers? +</p> +<p> + 3. What separated them from others in worship? +</p> +<p> + 4. What caused them the greatest grief? +</p> +<p> + 5. How did they entreat the ministers to come to them? +</p> +<p> + 6. On what terms would they have received the minister? +</p> +<p> + 7. How were the societies unified? +</p> +<p> + 8. How did the General Meeting provide a ministry? +</p> +<p> + 9. Give a description of an old-time prayer-meeting. +</p> +<p> + 10. Why should these exercises be revived? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0044"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XLI. +</h2> +<h3> + THE DAUGHTERS OF THE COVENANT. +</h3> +<p> + The persecution of the Covenanters brought into display the rarest + virtues and highest qualities of womanhood. Many women chose to give up + their happy homes, and wander in solitudes, dwell in caves, suffer in + prisons, hear the death sentence, and go to the gallows, rather than + violate their Covenant with God. They cheerfully accepted their full + share of service and sacrifice in Scotland's struggle for civil and + religious liberty. They faced the terrors of that conflict with a noble + spirit; they were man's worthy helpers in those trying times. Thousands + of incidents of feminine heroism might be cited; we have room for merely + a few. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanter's marriage, in those days, was both serious and romantic. + The bride always loves to open her eyes upon rosy prospects, but + persecution in that generation shattered the beautiful dream. Her future + was then like a landscape, over which storm followed storm, with only + alternate blinks of sunlight. Husband and wife were in jeopardy every + hour; to-morrow the wedding gown might be the winding sheet. When John + Knox found the woman of his choice, he said, "My bird, are you willing + to marry me?" She replied, "Yes, Sir." Then tenderly and firmly he + added, "My bird, if you marry me, you must take your venture of God's + providence, as I do. I go through the country on foot, with a wallet on + my arm, and in it a Bible, a shirt, and a clean band; you also may put + some things in for yourself; and you must go where I go, and lodge where + I lodge." "I'll do all this," she blithely answered. They lived long, + and were happy in the bonds of that blessed wedlock. Once as they + journeyed across the county she took the hand-baggage, and hastening + ahead sat on the hilltop awaiting his coming. As he came up she + humorously said, "Am not I as good as my word?" +</p> +<p> + The women often showed fidelity to Jesus Christ and His Covenant that + amazed the persecutors. They scorned the suggestion of relief for + themselves or their families that would compromise the truth of Christ. + John Welch, of Ayr, lay in prison fifteen months because his preaching + did not please the king. The dungeon in which he was confined is yet + pointed out in Blackness Castle, a dark, dismal, pestilential vault. A + recent traveler said that he had gotten enough of its horrors in five + minutes to do him. But poor Welch had to abide there "five quarters of + ane yier." Mrs. Welch visited the king in person to plead for his + release. "Yes," said the king, "if he will submit to the bishops." + "Please Your Majesty," said Mrs. Welch, holding up the corners of her + apron, "I'd rather kep his head here." The faithful wife was willing to + witness her husband's execution, rather than have him betray the cause + of Christ or break his Covenant with God. +</p> +<p> + Many a martyr got his inspiration for duty from God, through his noble + wife. When James Guthrie came to a difficult task, he seemed to + hesitate. Great interests were involved. May he not modify a certain + ministerial action so as to save his life, provide for his family, and + continue to shepherd his flock? Who would not pause in presence of such + a serious consideration? His wife, observing his perplexity, came into + his presence with a cheery countenance and an assuring voice, saying, + "My heart, what the Lord gives you light and clearness to do, that do." + The light carried him into the service; the conscience was set free from + the temporary disturbance; yet the decision brought him to the scaffold; + it placed upon his brow the martyr's crown. The worthy wife sadly went + into widowhood, and the children into orphanage, through that strong, + womanly spirit which could brook no deviation from duty. +</p> +<p> + The women frequently were placed in embarrassing positions. In marriage + they were not always equally yoked. When the husband was a persecutor, + faithfulness in the house and fidelity to Jesus required the highest + wisdom on the part of the wife. Lady Anne Rothes occupied such a home. + Both she and her husband were born Covenanters. The Covenant principles + were bred in the bone, instilled into the thoughts, and impressed on the + conscience, at the parental fireside, at the family altar, in the house + of God, and at the Table of the Lord, while they were under the care of + their parents; but the young man forsook his father's God, dishonored + the Covenant, and cast off religion. He became a profligate and + persecutor. The woman, through the abundant grace of God, remained true + to the Covenant. Her position, however, involved her in many a dilemma. + The wedlock that promised to be a blessed union proved to be a galling + yoke. The husband was placed in power by the king, and granted the title + of duke. On one occasion, when entertaining Archbishop Sharp, the two + grew merry over their plan to put certain Covenanters to death. The + tender-hearted woman, sitting with them at the table, was greatly + distressed, yet she wisely concealed her feelings. Having the + information, however, she was able to send out timely warning to the + Covenanters. In this way she saved their lives, not once, nor twice. + Rothes, too, in his better moments, assisted her in protecting the + persecuted. When about to send his soldiers to apprehend the + Covenanters, at times he would say to her with a twinkle in his eye, "My + lady, the hawks will be out to-night, so you had better take care of + your chickens." +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="410"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0042"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_42.jpg" width="406" height="350" +alt="Consolation in Prison."> +<b>Consolation in Prison.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Helen Johnston, afterward Lady Graden, was the daughter of the + celebrated Archibald Johnston, who sealed the Covenant with his blood. + Through much tribulation she learned to sympathize deeply with those who + were condemned to die for their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Here she + is seen visiting an aged prisoner of Christ, Robert Baillie. She is + leading the Bible, and conversing upon the consolation of God's grace. + She attended him on the scaffold, where he gave up his life for the + truth. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The women of the Covenant were compelled to pass through many painful + scenes. Often their hearts were heavily burdened, yet they were mightily + sustained by the Holy Spirit. Captain John Paton, after a wonderful + record on the battlefield in defence of the Covenant, won his last fight + on the scaffold. He went joyfully to his death, glorying in victory + through his Lord Jesus Christ. As he stood on the platform from which he + would soon step into eternity, he held forth his well-worn Bible, from + which he addressed the crowd that stood around the gallows. Then bidding + farewell to earth, and welcome to heaven, he commended his wife and + their six children to the care of his Covenant God. At that moment, the + sorrow-stricken woman, reaching up her trembling hand, received from him + his Bible with a blessing—a double token of her husband's deathless + love. Then in the twinkling of an eye, she saw his body twirling in the + death struggle, while his soul entered into glory. That Bible is still + preserved at Lochgoin. +</p> +<p> + The horrors which women deliberately faced, in their devotion to Christ + and His servants, seem almost incredible. How great the love of woman + whose heart God's love has filled! How deep, how tranquil, how + inexhaustible, how majestic, how like the love of Jesus is the love of + that woman whose heart rests in + her Covenant God! It is measured in part by the stupendous tasks she + accepts and the crucial emergencies she endures for the sake of others. + When Robert Baillie, burdened with years and weakened with disease, lay + in prison waiting for his sentence, his wife was ill and unable to visit + him. But the angelic heart of her sister, Lady Graden, then found its + opportunity. The authorities would permit her to visit the dying man, + only on her consent to become a prisoner with him. She agreed to the + conditions, and entered the dark sickly cell. His pale face was quickly + lighted up with her presence, and the Word of God, which she read to him + in the dim candle-light. Night and day she watched over him with + sympathetic interest. At length he was brought out for trial, and + sentenced to die. She accompanied him to the gallows, stood by him when + swung off; saw him cut down, watched while his body was quartered and + prepared for shipment, to be placed on exhibition in four cities. And + when the service of love was fully finished, and neither hand, nor + tongue, nor eye could do anything further, she went home to console her + sick sister. +</p> +<p> + And what shall we say more of Isabel Alison, Marion Harvie, Margaret + Dun, Barbara Cunningham, Janet Livingston, Anne Hamilton, Margaret + Colville, Marion Veitch, and the long list of worthy women, which the + pen of man will never complete? +</p> +<p> + The Covenanted Church is largely dependent on the women for spirit, + courage, fidelity, and activity in the service of Christ. The grace of + God, abounding in the women, will cause the Church to arise and do + valiant work. When mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters beam with + devotion to Christ and His Covenant; when their voice is resonant with + holy courage in the Lord's cause; when their lives are sublime with + deeds of heroic faith; then will the Church become "beautiful as the + morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army + with banners." Jesus said unto her, "O woman, great is thy faith; be it + unto thee even as thou wilt." +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. In what spirit did the women endure the persecution? +</p> +<p> + 2. Give an incident in courtship. +</p> +<p> + 3. Describe the loyalty of Mrs. Welch, both to her husband and to the + Covenant. +</p> +<p> + 4. Relate Mrs. Guthrie's spirited advice to her husband. +</p> +<p> + 5. Tell about Mrs. Paton. +</p> +<p> + 6. What were some of the difficulties faced by Lady Rothes? +</p> +<p> + 7. Describe the service of devotion by Lady Graden to Robert Baillie. +</p> +<p> + 8. How is the Church dependent on woman, for spirited and successful + work? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0045"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XLII. +</h2> +<h3> + YOUNG LIFE UNDER PERSECUTION. +</h3> +<p> + When the shepherd is smitten, the sheep will be scattered. When the + father is persecuted, the family will suffer, the mother and children + cannot escape. The fire that enfolds the oak with a sheet of flame will + not pause at the more beautiful maple or the flowering shrubs. +</p> +<p> + God's Covenant with the fathers included mothers, sons, and daughters. + It also embraced future generations. "The promise is unto you, and to + your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord + our God shall call." The Covenant of our fathers was their acceptance of + God's promise on His own terms. The terms were these: unswerving + fidelity to His truth, and steadfastness in His service. They who were + true in spirit, honest at heart, firm in purpose, and consistent in + life, were able to enter into the deep, broad, marvelous meaning of the + Covenant. The secret of the Lord was with them. The Holy Spirit came + upon them with power, shed light, gave strength, ministered comfort, + inspired hope, produced courage, wrought wonders. In their presence the + wilderness blossomed as the rose; gardens sprang up in the solitary + places; the apple tree bore fruit in the woods. The Lord Jesus Christ + was with them in the rich abundance and wonderful variety of His grace; + they dwelt in the heavenly places; glory covered the ground whereon they + trod. +</p> +<p> + The children of the Covenanters, being included in the Covenant, + suffered with their parents in the persecution, and received also the + recompense of reward. A few of these lovely lives may be mentioned, but + the fascinating story of thousands will never be told. The few, however, + will suggest the many. We look at a bunch of violets, then think of the + acres of delicate beauty bathing in the warm sunbeams and fluttering in + the soft winds. +</p> +<p> + The young Covenanters in those days confronted severest conditions and + learned hardest lessons in discipleship. Sometimes they had to forsake + father and mother to prove themselves worthy of Christ. Andrew Forsyth, + verging on manhood, was required to drink this bitter cup. The family + had not yet espoused the Covenanted cause. One day Andrew was entrusted + with a flock of sheep for the market. He was over night on the way. As + he lay that night guarding his sheep in the field, he heard solemn + music. Following the sound, he came to a moss-hag, where a group of + Covenanters were worshiping God. A moss-hag is a cut on the hillside, + formed by frost and rain; and overhung with moss, heather, and other + growths. In such places the pursued Covenanters often hid themselves. + The cold grotto was their house; the damp earth their bed; the hole cut + out of the hill without hands their sanctuary. Andrew listened with + breathless interest. They were singing a Psalm of David. Then followed + an earnest prayer. Tie could not endure the suspense, but revealed + himself to the little company. They received him gladly, and spent hours + talking of Christ, His precious blood, His amazing love, His royal + glory, and His unrivalled supremacy. Andrew was a Covenanter when he + went home. His father was angry, his mother was sorry, and he had to + leave. In a distant moor he made himself a bed under a booth of heather + and moss, and supported himself by working for the neighboring + shepherds. The dragoons heard of his affiliation with the Covenanters, + and were quickly on his path; his life was ever in danger. One day they + fired on him, but he escaped and reached his mossy den, carrying a + bullet wound received from their fire. There he lay several days, + suffering, bleeding, hungry, lonely, and helpless, yet full of peace and + joy in the Lord. Often did he think of his father's house, and his + mother's love; of the gentle hands that had in other days smoothed his + bed and made his bread; yet his heart bloomed with thoughts of the love + of Jesus Christ and His sweet promises. His religion had cost much, but + he never regretted the bargain by which he had lost the world and gained + his soul. At length a shepherd found him, and kindly ministered to his + wants. This good boy lived to be an old man, whose grey hair was a crown + of glory. +</p> +<p> + The young people often manifested presence of mind equal to those of + riper years. Bessie Willison was one of those brilliant characters. Once + she heard of a Field-meeting to be held under trying circumstances and + resolved to attend it. It was winter; the ground was covered with snow; + the place was distant and difficult to reach; the weather was rough; the + journey was perilous; dragoons might be met at any turn of the road. + What girl would brave such hardships for a day's preaching? Bessie + arrayed herself in her winter wraps, and started early in the morning. + She was willing to endure hardness for the Lord's sake. She could face + the driven snow, or sit on an icy stone, or laugh at the blasts that + reddened her cheeks, in order to hear the Word preached by a true + servant of God. She walked alone; yet not alone, for her heart burned + within her while the Lord talked with her by the way. As the road led + around a hill, she suddenly came upon a troop of dragoons. They drew up + their horses, soldier-like, and spoke rudely to her; she replied with + much dignity. They persisted in their vile language, taunting her and + railing on the Covenanters. But even with their horses, guns, swords, + and rough speeches, they were unable to daunt the lonely girl. Conscious + of purity, and flaming with indignation, her eyes flashing into their + faces, she administered a reproof that cut like a lancet. They shrank + and made room for her to pass on without further molestation. What + inspiration would come to the Field-meeting from the presence of a + Covenanter like that! The Lord was with her, and therefore she brought + joy and strength to others. +</p> +<p> + The little children, too, had their difficult places in Scotland's hard + fight for liberty. The persecution still increased in violence. At + length when for any reason a town had fallen under the king's + displeasure, all the inhabitants were subject to punishment. On one + occasion, the people had been warned of the coming of dragoons. The + parents, not being able to take their children with them, and hoping the + "bairns" would find pity, left them and fled to a hiding-place. The + children were sharply interrogated by the soldiers concerning their + parents, but gave no satisfaction. They were then led to a field and + placed in front of the soldiers. This greatly terrified them, but they + would reveal nothing. The officer commanded his men to take aim. Up went + the guns; the sight was dreadful for children; yet they would give no + information. "Lead us to the hiding-place, or you will be shot," cried + the officer. There were sobs, tears, and trembling, but no response. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="470"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0043"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_43.jpg" width="464" height="350" +alt="Andrew Hislop's Martyrdom."> +<b>Andrew Hislop's Martyrdom.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Andrew Hislop was but a youth when he suffered death for Christ's Crown + and Covenant. He was taken while crossing a field, and sentenced to die + on the spot. He bravely faced the guns that were levelled at his brow. + Many, other boys of that period were equally heroic. Four of them, who + were captured in a group, replied thus to their captors, when told that + they must be shot: "We are to die, you say? Glorious news! Christ is no + worse than He promised." +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + "Will it hurt much, Janet?" said a little boy, as he clasped the hand + of his sister. +</p> +<p> + "I dinna ken, Willie," replied the sister tenderly, "but I'm sure it + will na last lang." +</p> +<p> + "Fire!" shouted the officer. The terrible volley flashed from every gun. + Some of the children dropped, thinking they had been shot. The soldiers + had been told to shoot over their heads to frighten and not kill. The + officer, outmatched by the brave children, and we hope heartily ashamed + of himself, led his men away. As they rode off, the children sang: +</p> +<pre> + "The Lord's my shepherd; I'll not want; + He makes me down to lie + In pastures green; He leadeth me + The quiet waters by." +</pre> +<p> + Their sweet voices mingled with the dying clatter of the horses' hoofs. +</p> +<p> + The young bridegroom and his bride were also involved in hardships that + tried their souls. The soldiers that raided the country had equal + disregard for old age, youth, and infancy. The mother, whether + surrounded by a houseful of children, or clasping her first infant on + her bosom, found no pity. One morning the dragoons surrounded the house + of a happy couple, John and Sarah Gibson. They had come to seize both, + whether to kill or imprison was not yet determined. John was absent; + Sarah, seeing the troopers gallop toward the house, poured a prayer over + her babe, as it lay asleep in the crib, and fled in terror, hoping that + sweet infancy would appeal to their hearts. A ruffian rushed in, and + grasping the babe, shouted, "The nurse is not far away." He made it + scream, to bring the mother back. She heard its pitiful cry; her heart + was breaking, yet she was utterly powerless. She might expose herself, + but she could not help the infant. They carried it away. She was almost + insane with grief. The soldiers, going back from the house, met the + father, but he was not identified. They, being bewildered on the moor, + compelled him to be their guide. He saw the child, but did not recognize + it as his own. The officer, ashamed of the cruel deed, ordered the man + who had carried off the babe to take it back to the house. He galloped + off and laid it again in the crib. The mother quickly clasped it to her + bosom. That night the father returned. Telling of his adventures, he + mentioned the babe he had seen with the soldiers. The mother, bursting + into tears, arose and laying the infant in his arms said, "This is the + babe you saw." +</p> +<p> + The young people are the hope of the Church. The congregation whose + young people are loyal to Christ and true to the Covenant is greatly + blessed of God. The Covenant embraces children, claims their allegiance, + calls for their service, honors them with responsibilities, and lays at + their feet the privileges and beatitudes of the kingdom of heaven. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Does the Covenant of the fathers include posterity? +</p> +<p> + 2. How did the children suffer in the persecution? +</p> +<p> + 3. Describe the case of Andrew Forsyth. +</p> +<p> + 4. How did Bessie Willison meet her trials? +</p> +<p> + 5. Tell about the little children of a persecuted town. +</p> +<p> + 6. Describe the cruelty done to the babe of Mr. and Mrs. Gibson. +</p> +<p> + 7. What may the Church expect, when her young people are true? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0046"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XLIII. +</h2> +<h3> + THE COVENANTERS' BIBLE. +</h3> +<p> + The Covenanters dearly loved the Bible. They esteemed it very highly for + the sake of God, its Author. They believed in its inspiration, + genuineness, infallibility, majesty, and power. The Bible inspired? Yes, + the Covenanters had no troublesome thoughts on that question. The Holy + Spirit, in their estimation, was the source of that Book; the contents + were all His own. He produced every sentence, formed every clause, chose + every word found in the original Hebrew and Greek Scriptures, and filled + all brimful and overflowing with God's own meaning. He did all this + through the men who were employed as the inspired writers. The + Covenanters believed in the verbal and plenary inspiration of the Bible. +</p> +<p> + They discovered also a second inspiration. The Holy Spirit inspires the + devout reader. He opens the heart to receive the Scriptures, and He + opens the Scriptures to yield their meaning. Then, and only then, the + Bible appears in its true greatness. Then is it the effective voice of + God, tender as the sob of a babe, and majestic as thunder; it then is + the temple of living truth, filled with the glory of the Lord's + presence; it then is the revelation of the eternal world, showing the + beauty of holiness, the mystery of the cross, the conquest of death, the + horrors of sin, the doom of the lost, the joy of the saved. Oh, what a + Book the Bible is to the inspired reader! It becomes transparent. The + light of the face of Jesus flashes from the lines and between the lines, + through the words and amidst the letters, turning the page into heaven's + bright scenery, and the chapters into the unveiling of the wonders of + redemption. Such was the Book of God to the Covenanters, as they passed + through the fires of persecution. +</p> +<p> + The homeless Covenanters, wandering from place to place, carried the + Bible with them. It was their faithful guide and constant companion. + When they were hungry, it was their food; when thirsty, it was their + drink; when forsaken, it was their friend; when wounded, it was their + balm; when pursued, it was their refuge; when condemned, it was their + advocate; when executed, it was their welcome into heaven. When they + retired to the darksome caves, its promises made the dripping stones + shine; when they sought shelter in the mountains, the music of the + Psalms cheered their hearts; when their blood bedewed the moss, the loud + cry on Calvary sanctified their pain; when they sat on the Bass Rock + begirt with waves and swept by storms, the visions, creations, and + tumultuous grandeurs of Patmos were reproduced in the spiritual + experience of these illuminated sufferers, by means of the Word of God. + To these devout Covenanters, the blessed Book yielded up its wealth, + breathed its deepest love, revealed its hidden glory. In their spiritual + visions, the desert blossomed at their feet, gardens flourished around + them, harvests ripened for their sickle; summer drove back the dreary + winter; they verily dwelt in Immanuel's land. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters loved the Bible more than their lives. In it they found + eternal life, and counted all things but loss for the excellency of the + knowledge of Christ. Many instances are on record, showing their + willingness to die, rather than abandon, or conceal, the Book of God. + One man, M'Roy by name, was shot on the spot, because he was found + reading his Bible. It was Sabbath, a sweet summer day. That morning he + drove his cows to pasture, carrying the sacred Book with him. The field + is a beautiful place for personal devotions. Here the soul can luxuriate + in prayer and meditation, holding fellowship with heaven. A solemn + stillness had fallen upon the broad landscape; nothing was heard but the + notes of the plover, the bleating of the lambs, and the grazing of the + cows. M'Roy sat down on the soft grass, and opened the Book of God. He + was then in his element; he delighted in the law of the Lord. The sun + poured down its blessings upon the fields, and a light much brighter + spread around his soul; the fragrant air fanned his brow, and sweeter + aroma from the "mountain or myrrh" refreshed his spirit. His heart was + beating fast with the joys that were crowding into his inner life. He + was preparing, though he knew it not, for a crisis. Suddenly and rudely + the spiritual reverie was interrupted. Captain Lagg, with a company of + horsemen, was dashing across that field, when their eyes fell upon the + lonely herdsman. They galloped to the spot where he sat in solemn + composure. +</p> +<p> + "What book is that you are reading?" Lagg gruffly asked. +</p> +<p> + "It is the Bible, Sir," meekly replied M'Roy, looking up into the face + of the rough soldier, who held his weapon ready for action. The + confession sealed his death. +</p> +<p> + "Your cows must find another herdsman," sternly returned Lagg, who + immediately delivered the fatal shot. The bleeding body struggled a + moment on the heath, then the ransomed spirit took its flight to + brighter realms. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="440"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0044"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_44.jpg" width="436" height="350" +alt="Covenanters Bibles"> +<b>Covenanters Bibles</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +In this group of Bibles, Peden's is the largest; Cargill's is underneath + it, and Captain Paton's to the left. We had the privilege of using + Cargill's Bible in 1896, at a Conventicle service held on the Cargill + farm. We felt deeply impressed, while reading from the pages upon which + the piercing eyes of the martyr had often flashed. The book still bears + the marks of rain-drops, received, doubtless, while being used in the + outdoor meetings held by the Covenanters. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The Bible won the young, as well as the more matured. It warmed, + strengthened, purified, and ennobled the hearts of sons and daughters, + affording comfort and arousing heroism equal to that of fathers + and mothers. Andrew Hislop, while yet a youth, was overtaken as he + hastened to a hiding-place, and was put on trial for his life, while he + stood before the soldiers in the field across which he was running. His + Bible was found on his person. His mother's home had been demolished by + Claverhouse some time previous; she and her children had been compelled + to face the future without food or shelter. She had been charged with + harboring Covenanters; therefore her residence had been destroyed, her + provisions seized, and her children scattered; all were now being hunted + for their lives. Claverhouse had found Andrew. He was allowed a short + time for prayer. His prayer brought the needed blessing with more than + lightning-speed; sufficient grace and strength were immediately given. + His face shined with courage; his eyes gleamed with contempt for danger + and death; a halo of victory seemed to wreathe him; the Holy Spirit + filled his soul with joy; his lips took up the Psalmist's inspired + challenge, and the solemn music smote the ears of his foes, as he sang— +</p> +<pre> + "The mighty Lord is on my side, + I will not be afraid; + For any thing that man can do + I shall not be dismayed." +</pre> +<p> + The dragoons were unable to endure the glory of that face, or the + sweetness of that voice. He was ordered to draw down his "bonnet" over + his eyes, and receive the volley. He sternly refused, lifting it higher + on his dauntless brow, and affirming that he could look the musketeers + in the face, while they delivered the murderous fire. Then holding out + his Bible, he haled them to the Judgment-seat, where they would be + judged by that Book. +</p> +<p> + "Shoot," cried Claverhouse. Not a gun was discharged. The men were + overawed by the sweet innocency and intrepid spirit of the youthful + Covenanter. +</p> +<p> + "Shoot that bonnie young man!" exclaimed the officer, who had charge of + the men appointed to do the bloody work. "I'll fight Clavers and a' his + men first." Three others were found sufficiently hardened to do the + cruel deed. The young hero fell, and expired. As the horsemen rode away, + the stricken mother hastened to the spot. The young heart had ceased to + beat; the eyes opened no more upon her kindly face. Sadly she gathered + up the oozing brains, for which she had brought a clean napkin, knowing + too well what had occurred; she then prepared the body for burial. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters endeavored to keep the Bible ever close at hand. It was + the open book in the house the desk-book in the shop, the pocket-book in + the field, the guide-book on the road. When they had a breathing spell + at their work, they inhaled its fragrance, fed upon its manna, drank + from its wells of salvation, plucked the ripe fruit of its orchards. A + glance at its sacred pages, now and then through the day, supplied + strength, wisdom, comfort, and courage so much needed. But this pious + habit imperiled life. Arthur Inglis one day, while resting his team at + the plow, sat down on the furrow, with his open Bible. He was suddenly + sighted by the wary dragoons, who were scouting the country. They + spurred their steeds, and were quickly drawn up around their victim. The + fact that he was reading the Bible was sufficient to convince them that + he was worthy to die. Neither judge nor jury was necessary for + conviction. He received the deadly volley and fell, expiring in the + furrow where he sat. +</p> +<p> + The Bible, how we should prize it! Our fathers, when they opened the + Book of God, knew not but ere they closed it their blood would stain the + page upon which the eyes were feasting; yet they relished it more than + their necessary food. How will our delight in the Word of God compare + with theirs? +</p> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. How did the Covenanters esteem the Bible? +</p> +<p> + 2. What kind of inspiration did they ascribe to the Bible? +</p> +<p> + 3. What second inspiration needed to understand it? +</p> +<p> + 4. What was the Bible to these sufferers? +</p> +<p> + 5. Describe their devotion to the Word of God; the experience of McRoy; + Andrew Hislop; Arthur Inglis. +</p> +<p> + 6. How ought we to esteem the Bible? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0047"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XLIV. +</h2> +<h3> + THE SCOTTISH SEER.—A.D. 1685. +</h3> +<p> + Alexander Peden was a burning and a shining light in the dark night of + Scotland's persecution. His career in the ministry of the Gospel glowed + with mysterious splendor. His natural powers flashed with supernatural + glints, or rather, with excessive spiritual light, by the indwelling + Holy Spirit. God, through persecution, made many mighty men. +</p> +<p> + Peden was born in 1626, when King Charles was trying hard to stamp out + Presbyterianism. He was twelve years old, when the Covenant renewed at + Greyfriars' Church thrilled the kingdom. He was twenty-four when Charles + II. took the throne, and wrought havoc with the Reformation. When + thirty-six, he was driven from his church at Glenluce by the wrath of + the king. When forty-eight, he was banished to the Bass Rock, where he + rested, like an eagle on its aerie, his soul betimes soaring above all + clouds, and calmly viewing the ransomed in presence of the eternal + Throne. At sixty, he gave death a royal welcome, uttering predictions, + bestowing blessings, and giving signs, like one of the prophets of old. + Thus his singular life fell into periods of twelves, each arising above + the other, like mountain upon mountain, in ruggedness and majesty, until + his noble spirit took its flight from the scenes of earth. +</p> +<p> + A great distress befell him on the day appointed for his licensure. A + serious charge was preferred against him, affecting his moral character. + His licensure, therefore, was deferred. Greatly humiliated, he withdrew + to a solitary place, and spent twenty-four hours in prayer. He was all + night alone with the Angel of the Covenant, and wrestled till he got the + blessing. A prayer lasting twenty-four hours, poured forth from the + heart, will work wonders. He has not told us how he sat by the murmuring + waters, pouring out his complaint; nor how that day was to him like + night, and the night like outer darkness; nor how he mingled his sighs + with the moaning of the winds, and his tears with the drops of the + night; but he has told how that the Lord answered him. Returning to the + house he said, "Give me meat and drink, for I have gotten what I was + seeking; I will be vindicated." His innocency was soon made clear by the + criminal making a public confession of guilt. +</p> +<p> + Peden was called to the church of Glenluce, where he remained as pastor + three years. His preaching was earnest, pointed, and powerful. He was + greatly beloved by his flock, and the work of the Lord prospered in his + hand. But his ministry in that field was violently interrupted by the + vengeance of King Charles, which fell upon the Church in 1662, driving + 400 ministers from their parishes. Peden possessed a militant spirit, + and ignored the day set by royal authority for the arbitrary vacation. + He boldly continued overtime. At length the strain was so great that he + had to go. His farewell sermon was preached from Acts 20:31: "Therefore + watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to + warn every one night and day with tears." The text was peculiarly + appropriate to the occasion. The house was crowded; tumultuous emotions + surged through the audience; the anguish found vent in weeping, wailing, + and loud lamentations. The sermon was frequently interrupted with the + grief. The service continued until night. He never again preached in + that pulpit. +</p> +<p> + The gift of prophecy distinguished Peden in a striking manner, giving + him a unique place in history. He spoke with accuracy of many events, + without information other than that received directly from God. But this + will astonish no one who is acquainted with man's power in prayer. + Prayer was the secret of Peden's prescience. God proceeds on established + principles, in His dealings with His people. "The secret of the Lord is + with them that fear Him." "And the Lord said, Shall I hide from Abraham + that thing which I do?" Peden's prayers on certain occasions lasted all + night. Communion with God was his delight; he lived in the presence of + the Almighty; his hiding-place was in the brightness of the light + shining from the face of Jesus Christ. His heart was burdened with the + interests of Christ's kingdom. Therefore God gave him eyes to see much + that was hidden from others. +</p> +<p> + He was sixty miles away when the Covenanters fell on the field of + Rullion Green. News then traveled no faster than a horse. That evening + he was sad. A friend inquired the cause. He replied, "To-morrow I shall + tell you." That night he retired to his room, but went not to bed; he + spent the hours in prayer. Next morning he said, "Our friends, that were + in arms for Christ's interest, are now broken, killed, taken, and fled, + every man." +</p> +<p> + He was forty miles away on the dismal Sabbath, when the Covenanters were + slaughtered at Bothwell Bridge. He had an engagement to preach. The + people assembled in a solitary place for the service. They were hungry + for the Word of God, but Peden did not appear. At noon they sent to know + the cause. He replied, "Let the people go to their prayers; I neither + can, nor will preach this day, for our friends are fallen and fleed + before the enemy; they are hagging and + hacking them down, and their blood is running like water." +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="450"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0045"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_45.jpg" width="447" height="350" +alt="Peden at Cameron's Grave."> +<b>Peden at Cameron's Grave.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +When Peden was old, he wandered one day to the grave of Cameron. There + he sat down in deep meditation. Desolation brooded over the scene. The + solitude of his life, too, was crushing. His dearest companions in + persecution had fallen in the hard-fought battle. They had received + their crown, and were with the Lord in glory, while he was yet pursued + like a partridge on the mountains. His heart heaved a heavy sigh, and + from his lips came the memorable words, "O, to be wi Richie." +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + One day while preaching, he arose in a flight of inspiration, + exclaiming, "I must tell you, in the name of the Lord, who sent me unto + you this day, to tell you these things, that ere it be very long, the + living shall not be able to bury the dead in thee, O Scotland; and many + a mile shall ye walk, or ride, and shall not see a farm-house, but + ruinous wastes, for the quarrel of a broken Covenant and wrongs done to + the Son of God." +</p> +<p> + This servant of God had profound knowledge of Bible doctrines. He had a + masterly conception of the crown rights of Jesus Christ, and the + fundamental principles of His kingdom. He had vivid views of the + excellence of holiness, and the atrocity of sin. This filled him, like + the Psalmist, with horror at the doom of transgressors. His inner life + was fiercely swept with the contrary passions of love for righteousness, + and hatred for iniquity. His soul was the scene of terrific conflicts. + His preaching and praying against the powers of darkness often revealed + an internal tragedy. One night while preaching to the Covenanters who + had assembled in a sheep-house, he cried out, "Black, black, black will + be the day, that shall come upon Ireland; they shall travel forty miles, + and not see a reeking house, or hear a crowing cock." Then, clapping his + hands with dramatic effect, he exclaimed: "Glory, glory to the Lord, + that He has accepted a bloody sacrifice of a sealed testimony off + Scotland's hand." +</p> +<p> + Peden could not brook any departure from Christ and His Covenant. + Covenant-breaking was, in his eyes, a most aggravated sin. He was quick + to see the Lord coming to avenge the quarrel of His Covenant, and his + soul was filled with dread. +</p> +<p> + Here are some of his utterances: +</p> +<ul><li> + "Oh, my heart trembles within me, to think what is coming on the + backsliding, soul-murdering ministers of Scotland! +</li> +<li> + "He is not worth his room, that prays not half his time, to see if he + can prevent the dreadful wrath, that is coming on our poor motherland. +</li> +<li> + "Thirty-six years ago our Lord had a numerous train of ministers in + Scotland, but one blast blew six hundred of them away, and they never + returned. +</li> +<li> + "I shall tell you the right way of covenanting with God; it is when + Christ and believers meet; and our Lord gives them His laws, statutes, + and commandments; and charges them not to quit a hoof of them; no, + though they should be torn into a thousand pieces. And the right + Covenanter says, Amen." +</li> +</ul> +<p> + Peden never married. During twenty-four years of wanderings, his life + was pathetically lonely. When death was approaching, he returned to the + old home, to spend his last days amid the scenes of his childhood. His + brother still dwelt there. He received a cordial welcome, though his + presence imperiled the family; for the dragoons were still pursuing him. + To that true and tender soul, how beautiful must have been the green + fields, the rippling brooks, and the familiar hills, where he had roamed + when a child! They made him a cave on the hillside; a bush covered its + entrance. There he was hidden from the enemy, and there he lay in his + last illness, and ripened for heaven. +</p> +<p> + When near his end he predicted, that, bury him where they would, the + enemy would lift his body. Forty days after his burial, the spiteful foe + raised his body, and buried it among the graves of criminals. Thus they + attempted to disgrace this servant of Jesus Christ. But in later years + his memory was so dearly cherished, that many good people requested to + be interred beside him, and the grounds around that grave in time became + a beautiful cemetery. +</p> +<p> + Communion with God is the secret of power, and of spiritual vision; and + faithfulness in God's Covenant is the secret of Divine communion. The + possibility of living in holy familiarity with God the Father, and with + our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the Holy Spirit, learning the thoughts + of God, feeling the thrill of His power, viewing His far-reaching plans, + and co-operating in His glorious work—is this only a fascinating dream? + Nay, the Covenanters of the martyr-spirit found it to be a realization. + Do their children strive after the same attainment? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. What gift specially distinguished Peden? +</p> +<p> + 2. What distress did he meet at his licensure? +</p> +<p> + 3. How did he overcome it? +</p> +<p> + 4. Where was his first pastorate? +</p> +<p> + 5. Why did he leave Glenluce? +</p> +<p> + 6. What remarkable prophecies did he utter? +</p> +<p> + 7. Repeat some of his sayings. +</p> +<p> + 8. What occurred to his body after burial? +</p> +<p> + 9. How may we attain to a similar familiarity with God? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0048"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XLV. +</h2> +<h3> + SCOTLAND'S MAIDEN MARTYR.—A.D. 1685. +</h3> +<p> + King Charles II. died February 6, 1685. Few tears were shed, many hearts + were glad, at his departure. He was called the "Merry Monarch," in + allusion to his frivolous spirit and gross dissipation. "Wherever you + see his portrait, you may fancy him in his court at Whitehall, + surrounded by some of the worst vagabonds in the kingdom, drinking, + gambling, indulging in vicious conversation, and committing every kind + of profligate excess." +</p> +<p> + Charles left behind him a gory path. Pools of blood, precious blood, the + blood of the saints, marked it all the way through the twenty-five years + of his reign. Where did that horrible path lead? We shudder at the + answer; we draw a veil over the scene; we are careful not to speak our + thoughts. But the strong-hearted martyrs followed the vision to the end. + "Would you know what the devil is doing in hell?" exclaimed John Semple, + one of the Covenanted ministers. "He is going with a long rod in his + hand, crying, Make way, make room, for the king is coming; and the + other persecutors are posting hither." How like the scathing irony of + Isaiah, in describing the death of the king of Babylon! "Hell from + beneath is moved for thee, to meet thee at thy coming." An ovation in + the lower world! What horrid mockery there awaits the chieftains of + crime! +</p> +<p> + A curious coincidence occurred at this time. Alexander Peden, on a + certain night, was conducting family worship. He was hundreds of miles + distant from the king. While reading from the Bible, he suddenly + stopped, and exclaimed, "What's this I hear?" He uttered the strange + words three times. Then after a brief pause, he clapped his hands and + said, "I hear a dead shot at the throne of Britain. Let him go; he has + been a black sight to these lands, especially to poor Scotland. We're + well quit of him." That same night the king fell in a fit of apoplexy, + or as some say, by a dose of poison, and died within five days. His + brother, the Duke of York, succeeded him on the throne. +</p> +<p> + James VII, the new king, inherited Charles' work of slaughter, and + continued it with revolting savagery. He, too, was infatuated with the + thought of being supreme over the Church, and became infuriated with the + purpose of overthrowing Presbyterianism, and suppressing the + Covenanters, now called "The Cameronians." Had he paused to consider, + surely he would have hesitated to follow the man, who had gone to meet + his Judge, to answer for the blood that was crying against him for + vengeance. We tremble at the thought of the naked soul facing the + accusations of the slain, and receiving righteous retribution for its + cruel deeds. How great the infatuation of the successor, who determined + to follow the same path! +</p> +<p> + Among those who suffered under king James, the family of Gilbert Wilson + is worthy of special notice. Neither Gilbert, nor his wife, had espoused + the Covenanters' cause; but they had three children who claimed the + enviable distinction; Margaret, aged eighteen years, Thomas, sixteen, + and Agnes, thirteen. These children had been deeply moved by the stories + of bloodshed, that were then recited, night by night at many a fireside. + Their sympathy with the persecuted was aroused unwittingly, and they + absorbed the principles of the Covenant; somehow, and it could not be + explained, they became Covenanters, and that of the noblest type. Their + parents were shocked, for their property, and freedom, and even their + lives were involved. The children were required to abandon the Covenant, + or quit their home. They chose the latter, sad and terrible as it was. + These young hearts had grasped one of the highest and hardest truths in + the religion of Jesus Christ—"He that loveth father or mother more than + me is not worthy of me." +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="380"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0046"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_46.jpg" width="374" height="350" +alt="Choosing Death Rather Than Life"> +<b>Choosing Death Rather Than Life</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Margaret McLaughlin was a widow, 63 years of age; Margaret Wilson a girl + of 18. False accusations were preferred against them, but the real + ground of their death was their faith in Jesus Christ and piety before + God. They were offered life, if they would renounce the Covenant. They + chose death rather than forfeit God's favor, by breaking Covenant. + Several costly and beautiful monuments have been erected in Scotland to + their honor. The strand where they died is still marked by stakes, which + are replaced from time to time. The place is near Wigtown, in the south + of Scotland. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + One day they walked slowly and sadly away from their beloved parents, + and their pleasant home. From a distance they cast a farewell glance + upon the scenes of their childhood, then quickened their pace to reach + the solitudes and escape the soldiers. The dragoons came to the house, + but missed their prey. They were very angry, and enjoined the parents, + under a heavy penalty, to refuse their children food and shelter; yea, + all human kindness. The children pursued their way, not knowing whither + they were going. The desolate moors, the dreary mountains, the damp + caves, the chilly moss-hags were before them, but their resting-place + this night must be determined by the setting of the sun. We have not + been told where they wrapped themselves in their plaids for sleep, but + it was likely on the ground. They sadly missed the cozy bed their mother + used to make. Where they had to stop was so shelterless, silent, chilly, + and lonely. They were weary, hungry, defenceless, trembling like + nestlings cast violently out of the nest. Margaret the oldest was a + mother to the others. She loved her Bible. It contained God's many + promises, one especially precious on a night like this: "Fear thou not; + for I am with thee; be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen + thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand + of my righteousness." With such assuring words, they fell asleep in each + other's arms, their heads resting on the bosom of Christ's everlasting + love. The sun arose, and they, wandering on, found the Covenanters, with + whom they shared the privations, yea, also the consolations, of + persecuted life. +</p> +<p> + Having heard that King Charles was dead, the two sisters supposed that + the persecution had abated, and ventured to the house of Margaret + McLaughlan, an old faithful friend. Here they were discovered and + arrested; and, with this aged widow, were cast into prison. Agnes was + ransomed by her father, at a price equal to $500. The two Margarets were + sentenced to die. The manner of their death was peculiar and very + shocking. +</p> +<p> + On May 11, 1685, they were taken to the sea-shore to be drowned. While + the tide was low two stakes were driven deep into the oozy sand, one + close to the water, the other nearer the shore. To the first Margaret + McLaughlin was bound; to the second, Margaret Wilson. The shore was + crowded with people. Major Windram, with his troop, had charge of the + execution. This man himself like Gilbert Wilson had two daughters and a + son. They, too, like the Wilson children, had become aroused at the + deeds of blood, and remonstrated with their father against his atrocious + cruelty, in persecuting the Covenanters. One after another they had + sickened and died, each charging their death on him, as God's vengeance + upon his deeds. This man, after all his bitter experience, was hard + enough to watch these women die beneath the briny waves, and show them + no pity. The tide slowly recovered its strength; higher and higher it + arose around the more distant woman—up to her face—over her head—then + a death-struggle. "What think you now of your companion?" said a soldier + to the young maiden, as the head of the aged martyr rose and fell on the + waves. "What do I see but Christ, in one of His members, wrestling + there," she calmly replied. "Think you that we are the sufferers? No, it + is Christ in us; for He sends none a warfaring on their own charges." + The tide crept up upon this second martyr like the death-chill, but her + heart was strong and fearless in the Lord. Her voice arose sweetly above + the swash of the waves, reciting Scripture, pouring forth prayer, and + singing Psalms. The tide swelled around her bosom, ascended her naked + neck, touched her warm lips, yet the heavenly music continued. But now a + breaker dashes over the uplifted face; the voice is silenced; the head + droops upon the water. At this moment a soldier rushed forward, and + dragged her to the shore, hoping that she had received enough of the sea + to frighten her into a confession, and thereby securing her release. The + gasping girl was asked to renounce her Covenant. She refused. "Dear + Margaret," said a friend in melting tones, "Say, 'God save the king!' + say, 'God save the king!'" With sweet composure, she answered, "God + save him if He will, for it is his salvation I desire." Her friends, + rushing up to the officers, exclaimed, "O, Sir, she has said it; she has + said it." "Then let her take the oath, and renounce her Covenant," he + replied with cruel harshness. She answered with emphasis, "I will not; I + am one of Christ's children; let me go." They plunged her back into the + heaving waters; the struggle was brief. The lifeless form was cast upon + the strand, and soon borne off by loving hands. The limp body was now + free from all sorrow and suffering. The beautiful casket was empty; the + shining jewel had been taken to adorn the crown of the KING OF KINGS, + and to flash forever in the glory of heaven. +</p> +<pre> + "The tide flowed in, and rising over her lips, + She sang no more, but lifted up her face, + And there was glory all over the sky, + And there was glory all over the sky, + A flood of glory—and the lifted face + Swam in it, till it bowed beneath the flood, + And Scotland's Maiden Martyr went to God." +</pre> +<p> + The young people who are governed by the Word of God, and strengthened + by a Covenant with God, and steadfastly aim at the glory of God, will + have the Holy Spirit in rich abundance. When love to Jesus arises into a + holy passion, subordinating all earthly interests and relations, be + assured that extraordinary services, sacrifices, achievements, + victories, and honors are awaiting. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. When did King Charles die? +</p> +<p> + 2. What terrors must such a man have to meet at death? +</p> +<p> + 3. Who was his successor on the throne? +</p> +<p> + 4. What was his character? +</p> +<p> + 5. What notable family suffered under him? +</p> +<p> + 6. Relate the sad circumstances of the Wilson children. +</p> +<p> + 7. What happened to the sisters and their elderly friend? +</p> +<p> + 8. What was the manner of the death of the two Margarets? +</p> +<p> + 9. Describe the martyrdom of Margaret Wilson. +</p> +<p> + 10. How may the young people arise in strength for church service? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0049"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XLVI. +</h2> +<h3> + THE ELDERSHIP—A WALL OF DEFENCE.—A.D. 1685. +</h3> +<p> + The eldership has ever been a tower of strength in the Covenanted + Church. The elders have been pilots at the helm, when the ship was + driven by fiercest storms, and the ministers had altogether disappeared. + They have been the homeguards, when the most desperate assaults were + made upon their beloved Zion. They have been leaders, moving forward + with wise, fearless, and persistent step, when Christ's cause demanded + aggressive testimony for down-trodden truth, and against uprising error. +</p> +<p> + The Presbyterian Church has derived her distinctive name from the office + of the elder. Elder, Presbytery, Presbyterianism, Scriptural Church + Government, Christ's supremacy unlimited and unrivaled—these thoughts + are links in a chain, all made of the same gold. Presbyterianism is the + doctrine of Christ's sovereignty, crystalized into form, and reduced to + practice; the Headship of Jesus over His Church finds therein its + grandest expression. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanted Presbyterians recognized only one form of Church + government as Scriptural—that invested in the elders. They rejected all + other forms, as human inventions, without Divine warrant, an injury to + the Church, an infringement upon Christian liberty, a seizure of + Christ's crown rights and a blot upon His royal glory. +</p> +<p> + The elders are Christ's delegates, appointed to administer His + government in the Church. They are empowered by His will, accredited by + His Spirit, directed by His Word, entrusted with His authority, and + accountable at His throne. To the elders are committed, directly or + indirectly, all the interests of Christ's Church. What awful + responsibility! Surely the elder may pause at the threshold of the + sacred office, and, with trembling lips exclaim, "How dreadful is this + place!" +</p> +<p> + The Presbyterian Church of Scotland, in her palmy days, numbered about + 1,000 congregations, each under the care of a session. The elders may + therefore be estimated at 6,000 effective men, when the twenty-eight + years' persecution struck the Covenanters. The value of this force can + never be known, in advising, comforting, defending, and leading the + broken congregations of God's people, amidst the storms that desolated + their beloved Zion. +</p> +<p> + The minister, being assisted and encouraged by a faithful band of + elders, was able to do great work in his parish, and the Church + flourished exceedingly between the Covenant of 1638 and the persecution + which began in 1660. During the persecution, the order of the Church + being broken up, the election and ordination of elders had almost + ceased. Yet, as the regular eldership melted away by death and + defection, there were other sons of the Covenant, who, in spirit, + service, suffering, and leadership, became elders in fact, and were duly + recognized and honored. +</p> +<p> + The service of the elders in those days appeared in many forms. Captain + Henry Hall, of Haughhead, did splendid work in a variety of ways. He + often placed himself between the enemy and the field-meetings, in + defense of the Covenanters. He was a large man, formidable and fearless. + Many a time, with sword in hand, he rode his dashing charger upon the + king's troops, occasionally breaking their ranks. He was chiefly + distinguished, however, for his willingness to sacrifice all he + possessed, in the interest of the Church. He opened up his house for the + licensure of Richard Cameron, when such a meeting jeopardized his life, + family, and property. He also opened up his farm for field-meetings, + despite the wrath of the king, and the danger of being raided by the + troops. A Communion, held on his grounds, was long remembered for the + gracious work of the Holy Spirit. George Barcley was the minister on + that occasion. The people had come from their rocky retreats and + distant homes in great numbers. The preaching was refreshing, and the + Lord's Table furnished a great feast for hungry souls. The people, not + fully satisfied with the bountiful provisions of the Sabbath, came again + on Monday, and swarmed over the green field, waiting for another + service. During the sermon a shower descended, but the audience did not + seem to mind it. The minister himself was quite pleased, remarking while + the rain was falling, "I am as sensible of the drizzle of the dew of + heaven upon our souls, as of the rain upon our bodies." Elder Hall died + of wounds received while defending Donald Cargill, June 3, 1680. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="240"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0047"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_47.jpg" width="233" height="350" +alt="John Brown of Priesthill"> +<b>John Brown of Priesthill</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +John Brown was notable for meekness, intelligence, and fervent love, in + the Lord Jesus Christ He studied for the ministry, but an impediment in + his speech turned him from that path. He became known as the "Christian + carrier"—an expressman, in modern language. His devotion to the + Covenant secured for him the martyr's crown. He was shot in his own + dooryard, May 1, 1685. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The elders of those times were profoundly intelligent in the principles + of the Covenant for which they suffered. They were Bible men, who + delighted in the law of God, and drank deeply at the fountain-head of + knowledge. They were experts in the Confession of Faith, the Larger and + Shorter Catechisms, and the Church Covenants. John Nisbet, of Hardhill, + was a hero on many a field, defending minister and people from the + merciless troopers; but his greatest service was in the use of the sword + of the Spirit. His last testimony abounds with lovely passages of + Scripture, beautiful and fragrant as a bush abloom with roses. His + witness for the truth came from a rich heart; his protest against error + was solemn as an affidavit. His testimony shows deep experience in the + Lord, + and gives faithful warning to Covenant-breakers. Here are some of his + words: "I close with Christ in that way of redemption, which He hath + purchased. I give my testimony to the Holy Scriptures, for they are the + rule men are to walk by. I leave my testimony against all wrongers of my + Lord's crown." This man died on the scaffold; he ascended the ladder, + rejoicing and praising God, saying, "My soul doth magnify the Lord; my + soul doth magnify the Lord. I have longed, these sixteen years, to seal + the precious cause and interest of my precious Christ with my blood" He + suffered December 4, 1685. +</p> +<p> + Many of the elders were filled with spiritual enthusiasm. They had such + vivid views of the Lord Jesus and of the glory of the world to come, + that their souls were poured out in exclamations of wonder. Robert + Garnock, of Stirling, seemed at times to be caught up to the third + heaven, where he saw and enjoyed what he was unable to utter. He could + express the inexpressible only by the repetition of Oh! Oh! Oh! + Referring to a season when no one was permitted to see him in prison, he + said, "Oh, but I had a sweet time! The Lord's countenance was better + unto me, than all the company in the world." In his dying testimony, he + pleaded in the following manner: "Oh, will ye love Him? Oh, He is well + worth the loving, and quitting all for! Oh! for many lives to seal the + sweet cause with! If I had as many lives, as there are hairs on my + head, I would think them all too few to be martyrs for the truth. Oh, if + I could get my royal King Jesus cried up and down the world! Oh, but I + think it very weighty business, to be within twelve hours of eternity! I + will get my fill of love this night, for I will be with Jesus in + paradise. Welcome, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost; into thy hands I commit + my spirit." +</p> +<p> + Those elders were men of hope. They were enlisted in a winning cause, + and knew it. In the thickest of the fight, the cloud was dark, and the + thunder deafening; yet they knew that victory would ultimately perch on + their banner. Their triumph was assured in Christ, who had said, "Be of + good cheer; I have overcome the world." Robert Miller, of Rutherglen, + was, by his courageous hopefulness, an inspiration to the afflicted + Church. Pointing to the future, he exhorted his fellow-sufferers to hold + out, for glorious days were coming. "And now I dare not doubt," said he, + "but Christ is upon His way to return again. Oh, be earnest with Him! + Employ your strength holding up the fallen-down standard of our Lord. If + ye be found real in this duty, ye shall either be a member of the Church + Militant, and see the glory of the Second Temple, which shall be a + glorious sight; or else ye shall be transported, and be a member of the + Church Triumphant; so ye shall be no loser, but a noble gainer, either + of the ways." He was martyred one winter morning, in the early dawn; + the shadows of night still lingered, for the murderers may have dreaded + the light. Before the sun had risen, his spirit took its flight to the + realms of eternal brightness. +</p> +<p> + Are the elders of the Covenanted Church worthy of their predecessors? Do + they measure up to the standard of fortitude in the faith, + self-immolation for the truth, intelligence in the Scriptures, + enthusiasm in Christ, and hopefulness that has no sunset? Are they + leaders of the people in every good enterprise? Are they defenders of + the flock against all defection? Are they carrying the banner of Christ + forward, even beyond the ministers, where the testimony for King Jesus + requires it? For all faithful elders, seats in glory are prepared round + about the throne of God. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Whence did the Presbyterian Church get its name? +</p> +<p> + 2. What is the only Scriptural form of church government? +</p> +<p> + 3. What dread responsibility attached to this office? +</p> +<p> + 4. How did the persecuted Church keep up her force of elders? +</p> +<p> + 5. Describe the service some of them rendered; Hall, Nisbet, Garnock, + Miller. +</p> +<p> + 6. What questions should our elders apply to their own conscience? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0050"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XLVII. +</h2> +<h3> + A HOME DESOLATED. +</h3> +<p> + "See the top of yon hill?" said the shepherd's wife, pointing to the + highest crag of Cairn Table. "Keep that in yir e'en, and ye'll come to + John Brown's grave." Our way lay through a pathless moor, covered deep + with grass, rushes, and moss; and we had asked direction to the spot + where the martyr's body sleeps. +</p> +<p> + The day was wet, the pasture was beaded with drops, and the rushing + streamlets disputed our crossing yet a passionate longing to see the + place where John Brown, known as the "Christian Carrier" had lived, and + was buried, overcame every difficulty. The walk covered three miles. At + length we ascended a knoll, and, lo, the monument stood before our eyes, + and almost at our feet. Now we were on ground, where one of the most + tragic scenes of Scotland was transacted. Cargill very beautifully said, + "The moors are flowered with martyrs' graves." Here is one of these + flowers; a century plant it is, watered with precious blood, and abloom + in sweet solitude. +</p> +<p> + The buildings are gone; not a trace of them is left. The grave was made, + it is said, where the martyr fell, in front of his cottage. It is + enclosed with a stone wall breast high. A flat stone lies over the + remains, bearing a copious inscription. The solitariness is oppressive; + death and desolation here bear undisputed sway. The blood ran in chills, + as the cold grey stones gave their testimony, amid the gusts that played + with the heather, and the drizzle that sprinkled our bare heads. The + thoughts of the heart played wildly; imagination refused to be bridled; + in a moment former conditions were, in vision, revived. The monument had + given place to the dwelling, and the dreariness was astir with the + scenes of busy life. +</p> +<p> + The country around, was then, as it is now, somber as a desert. The + silence is solemn; we bated our breath; the lips shrank from speaking; + aught except a prayer, or the melody of a Psalm, seemed out of place. + The outlook on every side is without an inhabitant; yet, even here, the + persecutor sought his prey, and did his cruel work. +</p> +<p> + Many years had this home been a sanctuary in the wilderness, and a + refuge for the hunted Covenanters. John Brown and Isabel, his wife, were + like Zacharias and Elizabeth, "both righteous before God, walking in all + the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless." They had two + children, a babe in the mother's arms, and Janet, five years old, a + child by a former wife. Morning and evening God's worship perfumed + their humble dwelling. These hearts, filled with the love of Jesus, + poured forth His praise every day, but especially on the Sabbath, which + they kept with great care. Their hospitality was munificent: they + entertained angelic strangers. The latch-string was on the outside, and + many a Covenanter, driven by storms, or hunted by dragoons, found a + welcome here. They came wearied with journeying, wasted with hunger, + weakened with sickness, and worried with trouble, and found rest, + comfort, and inspiration in this habitation, where God was pleased to + dwell. +</p> +<p> + A society of Covenanters held its meetings in this home. Several + families came across the broad moor on Sabbath morning, and remained + till evening. Sometimes they traveled both ways under star-light, for + fear of the enemy. The day was devoutly spent in prayer, reading the + Word, singing Psalms, and conversing on the heart-stirring doctrines of + redemption. They spoke much concerning the duties and dangers of the + times. This society continued to meet, till broken up by the martyrdom + of its men; one after another was pursued and shot down like game on the + mountains. +</p> +<p> + John Brown's home became a rendezvous for the Delegated meetings of the + United Societies. This thickened the dangers that were gathering around + his life. He had a presentiment that his blood would be shed for the + cause of Christ, yet he accepted duty at every hazard, and rejoiced in + privileges however perilous. +</p> +<p> + After the death of Donald Cargill, the Cameronians for a while had no + ministers. They stood, however, unfalteringly by their Covenant. They + even grew aggressive in their testimony; hurled new challenges at the + king; took forward steps in the battle for conscience, liberty, and the + royal rights of Christ. The societies, numbering several hundred, were + able to unify and utilize their strength, by means of the Delegated + meetings. The second meeting of these delegates was held in this + consecrated home. Sixteen men, representative Cameronians, competent and + fearless elders, gathered around this hearth, where the turf-fire + glowed, while the March storms swept the moorland. Here they deliberated + how the Covenanters might continue the struggle, and intensify it by + striking harder blows against error, and giving stronger testimony to + the rights of their kingly Saviour. They were at no time planning for + ease, safety, or deliverance. "We only fear," said one, "that our + sufferings will end before the reformation begins." The glory of Jesus + Christ was their objective point. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="470"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0048"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_48.jpg" width="465" height="350" +alt="A Widow's Sorrow"> +<b>A Widow's Sorrow</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +Claverhouse and his troopers found John Brown on his farm digging turf. + It was in the morning. His fields were still dripping with dew, and his + soul moist with distillings of the 27th Psalm, which he had sung at + family worship. He was brought home, and shot at his door, in presence + of his wife and child. Mrs Brown suffered "neither fainting nor + confusion, but her eyes dazzled when the shots went off," according to + her own story. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + Alexander Peden in his wanderings, drifted into this home, on the night + previous to the awful tragedy that occurred in the front yard. How + surpassingly + kind is God's providence! Surely Peden was sent of God to fill these + hearts with comfort, courage, and triumph in Jesus Christ, for the + trial, which was now at their door. Peden held John Brown in highest + esteem. Of him he said, "He was a clear, shining light, the greatest + Christian I ever conversed with." What a night of prayer and inspired + fellowship those men must have had together. Their souls were then in a + state of highest tension; both were fired with zeal for the Covenant of + the Lord, and melted with sorrow for the desolated Church. +</p> +<p> + Next morning, May 1, 1685, they were up at dawn for family worship. The + first verses of the 27th Psalm were sung. How wonderfully appropriate + for such a morning! The Psalm is the shout of faith: +</p> +<pre> + "The Lord's my light and saving health, + Who shall make me dismayed? + My life's strength is the Lord; of whom + Then shall I be afraid?" +</pre> +<p> + John Brown then went to the field, spade in hand to dig turf. Peden + lingered; he was sad; the shadow of the great distress had fallen on his + tender spirit. Taking his farewell of Mrs. Brown, he paused and said, as + if to himself, "Poor woman; a fearful morning; a dark, misty morning!" + He then went his way. +</p> +<p> + "Oh, mother, a great many horsemen are coming down the hill with + father," cried little Janet, rushing into the house. +</p> +<p> + "The thing that I feared is come upon me," cried the mother, "O, give me + grace for this hour," she prayed, lifting her eyes to heaven. Then + taking her babe in her bosom, and Janet by the hand, she went out to + meet the soldiers, praying as she went. Claverhouse was in command. She + pleaded that her husband's life might be spared; but not words nor tears + could move the hardened man. +</p> +<p> + "Will you pray for King James and his supremacy?" said Claverhouse to + his prisoner. +</p> +<p> + "Jesus Christ is the Supreme Head of His Church," was the fearless + reply. +</p> +<p> + "Will you attend the curate's service?" continued Claverhouse. +</p> +<p> + "I cannot attend where God's law is not honored," responded Brown. +</p> +<p> + "Go to your prayers, for you shall immediately die," cried Claverhouse. + Even the soldiers were horrified at the awful threat. +</p> +<p> + "Isabel, this is the day I told you of, before we were married," said he + tenderly to his wife. "You see me now summoned to appear before the + Court of heaven, as a witness in our Redeemer's cause. Are you willing?" +</p> +<p> + "Heartily willing," she answered, her voice tremulous with affection for + him and submission to God. Her heart was breaking, yet she would cheer + up the martyr spirit of her husband. +</p> +<p> + "That is all I wait for," he said, then added in a rapture of joy, "O, + death, where is thy sting? O, grave, where is thy victory?" He prayed + for Covenant blessing upon mother and children, soon to be left so + lonely; adding, "Blessed be thou, O Holy Spirit, that speaketh more + comfort to my heart, than my oppressors can speak terror to my ears." +</p> +<p> + "Shoot" said Claverhouse to the soldiers, drawn up for the bloody work. + Not a gun was discharged. The brutal leader then fired the deadly shot. + The martyr fell at the feet of his wife, and after a brief struggle the + noble spirit departed. "What think you of your husband now?" said + Claverhouse to Mrs. Brown. "I always thought well of him, but more now + than ever," she quietly replied. "You deserve the same fate," said the + brutal man. "And if you had the power, I would receive it," she + defiantly responded. "But O, how will you answer for this day's work?" + she continued. "I'll take God in my own hand," he replied. The soldiers + silently and sullenly rode away, ashamed of the horrible deed. Mrs. + Brown, with her children, sat down beside the outstretched martyr, and + poured out her great sorrow. +</p> +<p> + John Brown might have saved his life, and his family, by relaxing in his + Covenant, and joining another Church. The family that keeps Covenant + with God will surely be tried; difficulties and hardships must be met. + But the victory is always to them who cling close to the Lord, in + personal holiness, in family worship, and in Covenant-keeping. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Describe the location of John Brown's home. +</p> +<p> + 2. What meetings were held in this cottage? +</p> +<p> + 3. What interests were here under deliberation? +</p> +<p> + 4. Who visited the home the evening before the sad event? +</p> +<p> + 5. How was John Brown captured? +</p> +<p> + 6. Describe the death of this martyr. +</p> +<p> + 7. How could John Brown have saved his life? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0051"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XLVIII +</h2> +<h3> + LAST, BUT NOT LEAST.—A.D. 1688. +</h3> +<p> + James Renwick was the last martyr publicly executed for adhering to + Scotland's Covenant. He was a child of maternal vows. His mother + dedicated him to the Lord, praying that he might live, and do worthy + service for Christ. She saw her prayer answered; yea, more than + answered; it became, also, a sword that pierced through her own soul. + She had not asked too much; but great prayers always imply + self-immolation. +</p> +<p> + The Renwick home was beautiful for situation. It was located near the + quiet town of Moniaive. The building is gone, but the place is kept in + remembrance by an attractive monument. The cottage stood on a hillside, + overlooking a charming valley, and beyond the valley, a range of + mountains reaching to the clouds, glistening with snow in the winter, + and purple with heather in the summer. Young Renwick was a passionate + lover of nature. Oft did he sit on this grassy slope, where stands the + monument, and gaze, and ponder, and dream, till filled with amazement. + Well did he know, that all the magnificence of earth and sky was but the + shadow of the glory beyond, the frills of the Creator's robe, the + evidence of a personal God. This boy, like young Samuel, did not yet + know the Lord. He knew his Bible, his prayers, his Catechism, his + Psalm-book, and his church; but he had no personal acquaintance with + God. This he eagerly sought. One day, as he gazed upon valley and + mountain, a wave of melancholy dashed upon his soul, and he exclaimed, + "If these were devouring furnaces of burning brimstone, I would be + content to go through them all, if so I could be assured that there is a + God." Such agonizing for an experimental acquaintance with God is sure + of reward. God revealed Himself. No great light breaking through the sky + fell upon him; but there came an inner illumination by the Holy Spirit, + which increased till his penetrating eyes saw God in everything; every + bush was burning with His glory; every mountain was clothed with His + majesty; all the heavens were speaking His praise; and yet he saw a + thousand-fold more of the beauty of the Lord in the holy Covenant, and + in the poor despised Covenanters who kept the faith, than in all the + grandeur of nature. Renwick in this deep experience had his introduction + to God. Oh, what a life we may expect of such a man! An introduction to + God must result in a wonderful character. Look out for the boy, who + says that he must find God; his life will yet be transfigured with real + greatness and moral grandeur. +</p> +<p> + At the age of nineteen Renwick finished his university education. That + year he witnessed the affecting sight of Donald Cargill's martyrdom. The + execution was public; curiosity and sympathy had collected an immense + throng around the scaffold, to see the old minister die. Renwick was in + the crowd. He was not yet a Covenanter. He pressed forward to hear and + see all he could. The sight was deeply affecting. The venerable man of + God walked triumphantly to the place of execution. His hair was white + with years and cares, his face serene as an angel, and his voice clear + and strong in his last testimony. He ascended the ladder with firm step, + and joyfully sealed the Covenant with his blood. Renwick gazed and + trembled; his heart beat fast, and his eyes grew moist. From that day he + was a Covenanter. He there, and then, resolved to give his life for the + same noble cause. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="265"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0049"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_49.jpg" width="261" height="350" +alt="James Renwick."> +<b>James Renwick.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +James Renwick was the last martyr of the Covenant, who suffered by + public execution. His short life was a miracle of devotion to the + Societies, whose fidelity to Christ and their Covenant had inflamed the + enemy with rage, and thereby greatly increased the violence of the + persecution. He had a marvelous victory over death, being in a transport + of joy on the way from the prison to the scaffold. His soul was + overflowing with happiness, in anticipation of the marriage supper of + the Lamb, of which he was about to partake. +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The first notable service Renwick rendered to the Covenanters was his + part in the public testimony given by the Society People, at Lanark, + January 12, 1682. The death of Donald Cargill had bereaved the societies + of their only pastor. They had no minister now, who would grasp the + fallen Banner of the Covenant, and hold it forth, in defiance of the + persecutor's rage. These people were the real Covenanters; they + counted the Covenant of their Lord more precious than all the blood + that could be poured out for its sake. Nor were they to be despised. + They numbered at least 12,000. These were men and women noted for high + principle, public spirit, intelligence, and courage. They seized the + Banner of the Covenant, and kept it unfurled with utmost fidelity, while + waiting for God to send them a standard-bearer. The persecution waxed + hotter and hotter. The murderous guns were ever echoing over moors and + mountains, in the desperate effort to exterminate the unconquerable + societies. Yet they grew bolder, and more aggressive, in their testimony + against the king, the Episcopacy, the Indulged ministers, and the silent + shepherds. It was in mid-winter, when storms were a shelter from the + foe, that forty armed Covenanters, including James Renwick, entered the + town of Lanark, and there delivered a new Declaration of rights and + wrongs, that made their enemies gnaw their tongues for pain. +</p> +<p> + We find Renwick, soon after this, studying theology in Holland. After + twenty months he appeared before Presbytery for ordination. This is the + man who has had his introduction to God. Now we will see what his + acquaintance with God will do for him. Acquainted with God! Oh, how + singular that will make any man! Acquainted personally with God, with + His sovereignty, His holiness, His love of righteousness, and His + hatred of sin! The man who is thus honored will be peculiar indeed. He + will have deep insight, unswerving purpose, strong character, + unhesitating courage. He will not deviate an hairbreadth from the law of + God, as he sees it. He will not yield his convictions for any + consideration. He will stand alone against the forces of all worlds + combined, rather than compromise one jot of revealed truth. The pleading + of friends and the threats of enemies will alike fall heedlessly upon + his ears. He will consider every word of Christ, and every gem in His + crown, worthy of all the blood that may flow for its sake. Such was + James Renwick at this time. +</p> +<p> + There were no ministers of his own denomination to ordain him. The + Church in Holland was not a Covenanted Church, but a branch of the + Presbyterian Church, and at that time it was burdened with corruptions. + But it was not guilty of Covenant-breaking, like the Church of Scotland. + Therefore he sought ordination in Holland. Now, this is the man who is + acquainted with God. Observe what he does. In his trial sermons, he laid + bare the errors and faultiness of the Holland Church. What a daring step + for a student of theology! What a breach of ordinary courtesy! He placed + conventional etiquette on the altar of truth, and consumed it in the + flames of zeal for God's House, and the purity of Divine worship. He + would, then and there, give faithful testimony; for the opportunity + might no more return. Presbytery listened with amazement; yet his + arguments were so Scriptural, and his manner so gracious, they cordially + sustained him. Next came the act of subscribing the creed before + ordination could be granted. This he positively refused to do, for it + had not the approval of his conscience. They yielded here also, + permitting him to sign the Standards of the Church of the Covenant. He + won his way. Decorum was nothing to him, in comparison with conscience + and God. He then came back to Scotland, and visited the ministers, + pleading with the Indulged to return to the Covenant, and entreating the + silent ones to come out of their caves, and make the land ring again + with their voices. He was small in person, slender and delicate, and + scarcely yet out of his boyhood. He everywhere met with repulse. Vexed + and disappointed, he went alone, in the strength of the Lord, to the + little flocks scattered over the wilderness. The societies gathered + about him; the Field-meetings were revived; the Lord poured out His Holy + Spirit in great power; the shout of a king was again heard in the camp + of the Covenanters. +</p> +<p> + Renwick's ministry lasted about four years. During this time he seemed + to be the most hated man in the world; reproach, revenge, and hatred + rolled over his head like breaking waves. He was called a deceiver, a + fanatic, a schismatic, a traitor. He was pursued by malicious rumors to + blacken his name, and by armed men to shed his blood. Yet he continued + steadfastly on his way. Winter storms and summer rains could not abate + his ardor. Neither the advice of friends, nor the wrath of foes, could + swerve him, no, not one moment, nor one hairbreath. His spirit was on + fire while his body was emaciated. A thousand arrows were flying around + this dove, some of them drinking its blood, yet was it singing. +</p> +<p> + One night he appeared at the door of John Brown. He was graciously + received. A storm was sweeping the moor. As he sat by the glowing fire, + drying his dripping garments and warming his shivering body, he + remarked, "Reproach has not broken my heart; but the excessive + traveling, and many exposures, have weakened my body." +</p> +<p> + His mother and sisters visited him when in jail, awaiting his execution. + Looking into their sad faces, he cheered them up, by exclaiming, "Oh, + how can I contain this, to be within two hours of the crown of glory! + Let us be glad, and rejoice. This death is to me, as if I were to lie + down on a bed of roses." When the drum sounded the signal for the + execution, he cried out, "Yonder, the welcome warning; the Bridegroom is + coming; I am ready, I am ready." He died with the words of assurance on + his lips: "Lord, into Thy hands I commend my spirit." +</p> +<p> + Are present Covenanters acquainted thus with God? Have they the + all-inclusive view of His glorious Trinity, His personal presence, His + revealed will, His exacting requirements, His omnipotent grace, His + redeeming love, His mediatorial kingdom, His everlasting Covenant? Have + they the view that will keep them steadfast, progressive, and + enthusiastic in His service? They, who have an abiding acquaintance with + God, will eventually develop a life, that will be clear as the sun, deep + as the sea, firm as the rock, and strong as the cedar. +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Where was James Renwick born? +</p> +<p> + 2. How was he troubled with doubts regarding God? +</p> +<p> + 3. How did the death of Cargill affect him? +</p> +<p> + 4. What was his first notable service in the Covenant? +</p> +<p> + 5. Where did he study theology? +</p> +<p> + 6. How did he testify against the errors of the Church of Holland? +</p> +<p> + 7. What success did he have in his ministry? +</p> +<p> + 8. What was his great sorrow? +</p> +<p> + 9. Wherein lay his unwavering strength? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0052"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + XLIX. +</h2> +<h3> + THE SHEPHERDLESS FLOCK. +</h3> +<p> + Renwick received the martyr's crown at the age of twenty-six. His limp + body was borne from the scaffold to Greyfriar's churchyard. A spot of + ground, a few yards square, had been allotted there for criminals. The + Covenanters in these days were accounted criminals by the civil + authorities. Here the ground was stirred again and again, till the + bodies of 100 martyrs were heaped together, and Renwick's was the last. + A suitable stone bearing his name, and referring to the others, now + graces this hundredfold grave. What a cluster of gems the Lord will find + here, in the day when He makes up His jewels! +</p> +<p> + When the Blue Banner fell from Renwick's lifeless hand, Alexander + Shields grasped it. He was scarcely worthy. Though he had served well + and suffered much in former years, yet once he had lapsed. This + temporary defection, while pardonable, proved to be a symptom of + inherent weakness that unfitted him for leadership. For his fault he + shed tears, but they could not remove the stain, nor restore + confidence. The fearless Covenanters continued the struggle, their own + spiritual momentum being sufficient to carry them forward with or + without leaders. The persecution had now reached its eventide; the + sunset was showing some rosy tints; a bright day would soon be dawning. + This year, 1688, William, Prince of Orange, with an army of 15,000, + disputed the right of King James to the throne. The persecutor was able + to give the Covenanters no more attention. The coward fled without a + battle. He lost his kingdom, and, with his fall, the house of the + Stuarts sank into oblivion, as had been predicted by the Covenanters. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="485"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0050"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_50.jpg" width="481" height="350" +alt="The Martyrdom of Renwick."> +<b>The Martyrdom of Renwick.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +James Renwick went to the scaffold in triumphant joy. There he read the + 19th chapter of Revelation—the prophecy of Christ's great battle and + victory—and sang part of the 103rd Psalm. He then lifted his eyes + heavenward, and said, "And now, Lord, I am ready. The bride, the Lamb's + wife, hath made herself ready." He suffered February 17, 1688, aged + twenty-six years. It was said by his enemies that he was the "stiffest + maintainer of Covenanted principles." +</td></tr></table> + +<p> + The Revolution filled the Covenanted Societies with high hope. They + became enthusiastic supporters of the new king, expecting him to + inaugurate a reign of righteousness. A Convention of statesmen met in + Edinburgh, to readjust public affairs and restore peace. Claverhouse, + too, was there, still dripping with the blood of the martyrs. He had + dashed suddenly upon the scene with his troops to break up the + Convention, and give battle to King William's supporters. The Convention + was without a sufficient guard. The delegates were in danger. To whom + could they look for protection? Listen! The call is to the Cameronians; + to the men who have borne the brunt of persecution for twenty-eight + years, and are now quietly returning from the moors and caverns to + their desolate homes. To these who have been hated and hunted and + tortured and hacked to pieces—to these the government now appeals for + help. These, after all they have suffered, are the Reliables. They are + the recognized patriots, who stand ready for any sacrifice, and are + worthy of any trust, in the name of liberty and righteousness. "We are + coming," was their quick reply. A regiment was mustered in one day + without the beat of a drum; two others were offered. The poor + Covenanters were not now despised. +</p> +<p> + The persecution being over, the Church endeavored to resume her + operations. The General Assembly convened October 16, 1690, after a + violent suspension lasting forty years. This Assembly was most + remarkable for its membership. There sat together three active + Cameronian ministers, threescore other ministers pale from their hiding + places, a large group of the Indulged ministers who had gone home years + ago, a number of curates who had slipped into the vacancies, and a list + of bishops who had been in the service of the persecuting government. + Such being the blend, the aroma was anything but sweet. Alexander Peden + had prophesied of this Assembly years before. He said, "The Indulged, + and the lukewarm ministers, with some young things that know nothing, + will hive together in a General Assembly; the hands red with blood, and + the hands black with defection, will be clasped by our ministers; and + ye will not ken who has been the persecutor, and who the sufferer; and + your testimony will be cut off at the web's end." How true the + prediction! +</p> +<p> + Rev. Hugh Kennedy was chosen Moderator. The choice indicated the spirit + of the Assembly. This man had accepted the Indulgence, had given thanks + for the Toleration, and had debarred from Communion the Covenanters who + had fought at Bothwell Bridge. The liberals had the meeting. Moderation, + compromise, unionism, a nauseating agreeableness pervaded the Court, + like the miasma that broods over a stagnant pond. +</p> +<p> + The three Cameronians, Alexander Shields, Thomas Linning, and William + Boyd, had courage to represent the Covenanted Societies, by presenting + their petition for the restoration of the General Assembly on + Reformation grounds, according to the Covenant of 1638. The petition was + treated with contempt; it was not even read in the Assembly. The three + ministers winced, faltered, yielded. They fell beneath the popular wave, + to rise no more. These men, who had bravely faced persecution, were at + last overcome by blandishment. The Covenanted cause was at stake in that + Assembly, as truly as it ever had been in the presence of Claverhouse + and his dragoons; and here the leaders surrendered. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanted Societies refused to follow their faithless guides into + the General Assembly, to disappear there in the strange blending of + religious forces. These were men of conviction; they did not vary with + the weather; they thought for themselves. Some of them were aged and had + seen the Covenant Temple of 1638, with its strong foundation and + imposing structure. They had seen the Reformation in its glory—the + Covenanted Church of Christ, purified, strengthened, and exalted, under + the care of Henderson, Johnston, Guthrie, Argyle, and others whose + hearts God had touched; and now they saw this reconstruction. Ah, how + inferior! it was far removed from the true foundation; it was + conspicuous only for its hay, wood, and stubble; they saw and wept. The + Covenanted cause was practically abandoned. What Satan could not win by + fire and sword, he had won by the enchantments of peace. +</p> +<p> + The Assembly submitted to the king's supremacy over the Church. King + William, like the former rulers, had seized the gem of Christ's + authority and set it in his own crown. For this royal truth the martyrs + had died. Now their blood was reckoned an unnecessary expenditure. The + Covenant was ignored, and its principles set aside; the Church was + placed on a new basis. Thus the glory of Scotland's Reformation sank + behind a fog-bank that has never yet cleared away. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanted Societies resolved to maintain their organization, as + the true representatives of Scotland's Reformation Church; the + legitimate successors of Knox, Melville, Guthrie, Cameron, Cargill, and + Renwick; the rightful heirs of the Covenant, its obligations and + blessings; the devoted witnesses of Jesus Christ, going forth unto Him + without the camp, bearing His reproach. They had much for which to + contend. The supremacy of Christ, the independence of the Church the + Covenant of the fathers, the testimony of the martyrs, the purity of + Divine worship, the dignity of Church discipline—all had suffered at + the hands of this Assembly. Against the great defection they resolved to + lift up a testimony. They would not deny their Covenant Lord, by + entering into relation with Church or State, as at that time constituted + and administered. These Covenanters were ridiculed as a fanatical, + narrow-minded faction. James Renwick had been taunted with the question, + "Do you believe that none, but those of your principles, can enter + heaven?" "I never said so," he replied; "but I do say, These are + principles worth suffering for." A noble reply to the sarcastic question + which often reappears. +</p> +<p> + Narrow-minded! Breadth may be viewed from various positions. He, who + attempts to broaden himself by accepting error, becomes the narrow man. + Every error adopted means a truth rejected. This process may continue + till the heart is so contracted that there is no room for either God or + man. Ah, the irony of such broadness! How different with him who will + not surrender a hairbreadth of truth! He is the broad man; broad as the + law of God, broad as the Gospel of Christ, broad as the principles of + the everlasting Covenant, broad as the kingdom of heaven. Those + Covenanters were the broadest men of their day. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters would not receive Gospel services from ministers who had + broken Covenant with them and with God. Sixteen years this flock was in + the wilderness without a shepherd. They came together in societies for + spiritual fellowship and the worship of God. The Lord sustained them, + and maintained their cause. At length He sent them a minister, John + McMillan; and thirty years later another, Thomas Nairn. By these the + Reformed Presbytery was organized, August 1, 1743. +</p> +<p> + Sir Robert Hamilton was the peerless champion of the pastorless people. + He exhorted them, saying, "Labor to keep the good old way, seeking to be + found in His way when He cometh, keeping the Word of Christ's patience, + standing fast to your post, and close to your Master, in readiness to + follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth; for the winds are now let loose; + and it is to be feared, many shall be blown away." +</p> +<p> + And the pastorless people spake often one to another, saying, + "Wherefore, we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have + grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and Godly + fear: for our God is a consuming fire. Let us go forth therefore unto + Him without the camp bearing His reproach." +</p> +<p> + And Jesus encouraged them, saying, "He that endureth to the end shall be + saved. Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of + life. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, + even as I also overcame, and am set down with, my Father in His throne." +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Who succeeded Renwick as leader of the Covenanters? +</p> +<p> + 2. What was his character? +</p> +<p> + 3. When did the Revolution take place? +</p> +<p> + 4. How did the Cameronians regard it? +</p> +<p> + 5. When was the General Assembly reorganized? +</p> +<p> + 6. What was its general character? +</p> +<p> + 7. How many in it represented the Covenanted Societies? +</p> +<p> + 8. What course did they take? +</p> +<p> + 9. What line of action did the Societies follow? +</p> +<p> + 10. Who were the men of broad principles in those times? +</p> +<p> + 11. By whom was the Reformed Presbytery organized? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0053"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + L. +</h2> +<h3> + THE VOICE OF THE MARTYRS' BLOOD. +</h3> +<p> + The mountains and moors of Scotland are decorated with the tombstones of + the martyrs. The descendants of the Covenanted fathers have erected many + memorials in the places made sacred with the blood of the martyrs. The + memorials range from the humble stone to the costly monument. The + fathers have not been forgotten; yea, they are still highly esteemed for + the heroic struggle, by which every son and daughter has a birthright to + the richest inheritance of Christian liberty on earth. +</p> +<p> + The persecution lasted twenty-eight years, with few "blinks" to take the + chill of horror out of the air. During this time, 18,000 persons, it is + said, suffered death, or utmost hardships, for their faith in Jesus + Christ. Of this number, 7,000 went into voluntary banishment; 2,500 were + shipped to distant lands; 800 were outlawed; 680 were killed in battle, + or died of their wounds; 500 were murdered in cold blood; 362 were, by + form of law, executed. We have no account of the number that perished in + shipwrecks, or succumbed to the horrors of transportation; nor of + hundreds that were shot at sight by the soldiers who ravaged the country + for years; nor of the thousands who wasted away through cold, hunger, + and exposure in the mountains and moors. Gloomy caves, dripping + moss-hags, and unmarked graves, were asylums of mercy to multitudes, who + are without any earthly record; but their names are written in heaven. + Truly Scotland has been consecrated to the Lord. The blood of the + martyrs has watered her heather, crimsoned her streams, stained her + streets, and bedewed her fields. Scotland is the Lord's. The blood means + much. +</p> +<center> + THE BLOOD EMPHASIZES THE TRUTH OF CHRIST. +</center> +<p> + The blood of the martyrs testifies to the value of the truth—the + superlative importance of all revealed truth. Their blood placed + emphasis on the sovereignty of God, the supremacy of Christ, the + inspiration of the Bible, the preciousness of the Gospel, the + independence of the Church, the liberty of conscience and the thousand + and one co-related doctrines of salvation. These Covenanters took their + position at Christ's throne, where the rainbow of the Covenant arches + the heavens; and from that point of view the plan of salvation lay + before them, in matchless detail and glorious perspective. These men + received enlightenment from the Holy Spirit, and thereby had a broad, + clear, rapturous vision of God and His redeeming grace. They saw the + truth in the harmonious teachings of the Bible, and esteemed it as God's + sanctuary, filled with the presence of Jesus Christ. These Covenanters + found Christ in every particle of revealed truth, in every "jot," and in + every "tittle" of the Word of God. Christ's life was throbbing in it, + His glory was streaming through it, His energy was radiating from it. + They were willing to lose the right eye, the right hand, the right foot, + yea, life itself, rather than lose the least fragment of the Scriptures. + Rather would they be jostled out of their homes, and wander in deserts, + than depart from Bible doctrines. James Renwick was offered his life, if + he would let a drop of ink fall on a sheet of paper. He chose death in + preference to that compromising act. Is the truth, the entire system of + truth, every stone in the temple of truth, thus dear to us? +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="right" width="470"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0051"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_51.jpg" width="468" height="350" +alt="The Burial."> +<b>The Burial.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +The burial service was peculiarly sad and solemn, in the times of + persecution. The deceased Covenanters were, in many cases, buried at + night, for fear of the enemy. The friends, with breaking hearts, + gathered around the new grave, and waited under the dim star-light, + while the minister, with the use of a flickering candle, offered + consolation from the Word of God. Great was the grief when one of the + leaders had fallen in death. +</td></tr></table> + +<center> + A WITNESSING CHURCH IS NEEDED. +</center> +<p> + The blood testifies to the need of a witnessing Church. While Satan + remains above the pit, and iniquity abounds in present proportions, a + faithful and fearless testimony for Jesus Christ, and His glorious + Gospel and royal rights, will be a moral necessity. God has His own way + of calling out His witnesses, and assigning service to them. The Church, + as a whole, has invalidated and incapacitated herself for + this responsibility, by weakness, declension, and compromise. God does + not commit His testimony to the Church, while in such condition; nor to + the faithful in the Church, whose voice and actions are weakened or + neutralized by majorities. This important and hazardous task throughout + the ages has not been committed to a Church, that is recreant at any + point; nor to individuals, that are true at every point; but to a + distinctive body of earnest, faithful, and fearless believers. For this + purpose the Lord has divided, and sub-divided, His people time and + again. He will have a testimony by a Church that is distinct from every + retrograde organization. While the Covenanted Church was faithful under + Henderson, Johnston, Guthrie, Gillespie, and other worthy leaders, she + was united, happy, and prosperous; "she was beautiful as the morning, + fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with + banners." But when she suppressed, by resolution, one principle of the + Covenant, God drew the dividing line. He sent the persecution that + brought out His witnesses, four hundred ministers, and people in + proportion. And when these ministers weakened under the royal + Indulgences, He intensified the persecution and called out the + "Cameronians." These witnesses He qualified to see the truth in its vast + proportions and feel it in its divine dreadfulness. They became the + embodiment of the Gospel of Jesus Christ; they were the incarnation of + the doctrines of His kingdom on earth. They dwelt in the presence of + God, lived on the hidden manna, and pulsated with the power of the + endless life. Such were the martyrs who defied death and all the + instruments of torture. Have the Covenanters of to-day spirit, power, + and character like this? +</p> +<center> + A CRY FOR VENGEANCE. +</center> +<p> + The blood of the martyrs cries unto God for vengeance. "How long, O + Lord, holy and true, dost Thou not judge and avenge our blood on them + that dwell on the earth?" Such was the cry of them that were "slain for + the Word of God, and for the testimony which they held." Vengeance in + the Gospel! Vengeance in Jesus Christ! Vengeance in the heart of God! + How we are shocked! We try to veil our eyes and shut out the dreadful + fact. We attempt to explain away the terrible doctrine. Yet there it is. + A sharp sword is sheathed in this scabbard, and it will yet be drawn for + dreadful work. "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord." "And + shall not God avenge His own elect? I tell you that He will avenge them + speedily." God is just as well as merciful; yea, necessarily just, but + conditionally merciful. Justice is an essential attribute of His life; + mercy is volitional. The blood of the martyrs, their groans, tears, + wanderings, the desolation of home, the cries of mothers and children, + the horrors worse than death—all are ever before His face; nothing is + forgotten. Without repentance, no remission; sin does not grow feeble + with, years, nor die of old age. Judgment must be meted out, or + rectitude would forsake the universe; the whole structure of God's + kingdom would fall into ruins. The guilty must suffer. The individual + perpetrators of these horrid crimes have suffered already; they have + appeared personally before Christ's tribunal. But the State! Oh, the + guilty State! The State was the chief party in the slaughter of these + innocents. True, she has ceased to shed the blood of saints; but has she + repented of the blood she has shed? Her eyes are dry; her brow is brass. + Her children build monuments, but her hand's are still red; the blood + that once dripped is now dried, but it is still on her hands. Genuine + repentance means reformation. The Reformation is under Scotland's feet. + The twenty-eight years' struggle is to her a splendid drama; the + principles are amusing. When He inquireth after blood, what shall + Scotland do? The angel answers in the Revelation: "They have shed the + blood of saints and prophets, and Thou hast given them blood to drink." +</p> +<center> + WEIGHTY MORAL OBLIGATIONS. +</center> +<p> + The blood of the martyrs imposes obligations upon posterity from + generation to generation. The martyrs deeply felt their responsibility + for the Church, her purity, doctrines, discipline, membership; for her + loyalty to Christ, her separation from the world, and her administration + in the Holy Spirit. Their zeal for the House of God brought them to the + front; their passionate love for Jesus Christ placed them on the firing + line. There they met every attack made upon Christ and His House; there + they stood for the royal rights of Jesus and the honor of His kingdom; + there they fell under the murderous fire, giving place to their + successors. These soldiers of Jesus knew how to die, 'but not how to + retreat. They did their work well, yet necessarily left it unfinished. + The victory was assured, though not in sight. The death-stricken hand + reached the blood-stained banner out to another to be carried forward. + This war still rages. The supremacy of Jesus Christ is yet disputed; His + royal rights are yet usurped by mortals; His Bride, the Church, still + halts amid many opinions; the ordinances of grace are unblushingly + corrupted; the teachings of the Gospel are adroitly doctored. The + attacking forces are active, determined, and numerous, as in the days of + the martyrs. The tactics differ, but the fight goes on. Heavy, heavy are + the moral obligations, that fall to the successors of those who gave + their lives for the truth. To recede would be cowardice, desertion from + the ranks, perjury within the Covenant, treason against Jesus Christ. Is + this too strong? Listen: "If any man draw back, my soul shall have no + pleasure in him." Surely the times call for Christian soldiers; yea, + heroes; possibly, martyrs. Do Covenanters feel their obligations to the + Lord? +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. How long did the persecution last? +</p> +<p> + 2. What is the estimated number of those who suffered? +</p> +<p> + 3. What significance is attached to the martyrs' blood? +</p> +<p> + 4. How does it show the value of Gospel truth? +</p> +<p> + 5. In what manner does the blood cry for vengeance? +</p> +<p> + 6. How does it lay obligations on posterity? +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0054"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + LI. +</h2> +<h3> + THE OLD BLUE BANNER YET. +</h3> +<p> + The Covenanters in Scotland's struggle for liberty carried a significant + banner. Letters of gold, on a field of blue, displayed the soul-stirring + motto: "FOR CHRIST'S CROWN AND COVENANT." +</p> +<p> + The men of the Covenant unfurled their colors with dauntless spirit, and + went forth in the name of the Lord, conquering and to conquer. And this + is the victory by which they overcame the world, even their faith. +</p> +<p> + The Covenanters carried their banner as an emblem of the truth in Jesus + Christ. The Bible focussed its light in the burning words that flashed + on their ensign. These fathers accepted the Bible without reservation or + apology, as God's Book, inspired, inerrable, authoritative, the rock + foundation of faith, and the supreme law of life. They grasped the + wondrous system of redeeming truth, as bearing on their own lives, on + the Church, on the world, and on all generations to come. They embodied + it in their Covenant, and wove it into their flag. They saw all Bible + truth converge in Christ, the Only Begotten of the Father, the Mediator + of the Covenant of grace, the crucified and risen Redeemer, the exalted + Prince and Saviour; and on their banner they emblazoned their faith. But + while their profession was embroidered on their colors, their creed was + pulsating in their veins. This standard they carried boldly into the + battle in defence of Christ and His Church. The deadly missiles that + tattered its folds, and plowed through their flesh, could not subdue + their spirit. Their blood often stained it, but it was never + surrendered. One standard-bearer fell, and the flag-staff was grasped by + another. Thus the Old Blue Banner, in all its significance, has come + down through the ages; it is the Covenanter's banner yet. +</p> + +<table summary="illustration" class="imagetable" align="left" width="275"><tr><td> +<a name="image-0052"><!--IMG--></a> +<center> +<img src="images/image_52.jpg" width="270" height="350" +alt="The Banner of the Covenant."> +<b>The Banner of the Covenant.</b> +</center> +<!--IMAGE END--> +</td></tr></table> + + +<center> + THE COVENANTERS' STANDARD OF RELIGION. +</center> +<p> + The standard of truth is the real banner of the Covenant. The standard + of religion in the Covenanted Church exalts the truth of Christ, and + makes it most conspicuous. Nothing in a nation so public as her colors. + Where the flag flies, the power, honor, and greatness of the country are + represented by the folds that flap on the winds. The Covenant commits + the Covenanted Church to the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the + truth of God's + Word. This obligation, when honored, carries the Covenanter into all + truth, and all truth into the Covenanter. The doctrines of grace will + throb in his heart, flow in his veins, illumine his mind, dominate his + thoughts, deepen his life, enlarge his capacities, control his actions, + and purify all the fountains of his being. To all such the truth is + concrete, not abstract; it has form, color, action, energy, atmosphere, + horizon, immensity: To the true Covenanter, knowledge is experience; he + deals with God, worships in spirit, battles with sin, glories in Jesus, + and listens to the Eternal Spirit. His faith is power; his love is life; + his hope is realization. The invisible world looms up with awful + visibility before him. Such is the life that is distinguished by + Covenant fidelity; in it the truth of God has grandest publicity. It + shines like the sun. The voice of that life has the majesty of thunder, + testifying for Christ. They who are thus animated with the truth cannot + hide the great principles of the Church. They will glory in her Covenant + and publish the truth. Behold the martyrs, how they witnessed for Jesus + Christ, while fire and sword had no more power over their faith than + over the stars. The truth demands publicity. Our poor, deceived, + demon-ridden world needs the truth, Gospel truth shining like the sun, + convicting truth pointed like lightning; the sweet truth of love and the + fiery truth of wrath; truth that reveals life, death, immortality, + judgment, heaven, hell, and eternity. The world needs the truth that + will rend the heavens with prayer, and make the earth quake with fear. +</p> +<center> + THE HIGHEST TYPE OF CHRISTIAN LIFE. +</center> +<p> + The standard of religion adopted by the Covenanted Church demands that + Covenanters possess the noblest spirit. They, who rally in earnest under + this banner, will be men after God's own heart. Such were the martyrs: + kind, patient, self-sacrificing, passionately in love with Christ, and + laboring diligently to bring others into the same sphere of blessedness. + They were strong, heroic, and unconquerable; affectionate, intelligent, + filled with veneration for God, and aflame with zeal for His House. + Those Covenanters knew that they were redeemed, and gloried in their + relation and obligation to the Lord Jesus Christ, their Almighty + Redeemer. They flew into every service at His command. Their obedience + was accompanied with much assurance of salvation. They had heaven on + earth. The heaven of glory was merely an extension of their vista, an + enlargement of their horizon, higher up the mountain that they were + climbing, more spiritual ozone in the air they were breathing. They + dwelt with God, lived in Jesus Christ, felt the raptures of the Holy + Spirit; they knew the mystery of the cross, the value of the Blood, and + the power of the spiritual resurrection. Therefore were they swallowed + up in love to God and man. Are we amazed at the divine beauty of the + martyr's life? Let us have the same heartiness, the same vision of God, + the same joy in the Holy Spirit, and we will have the key to the + nobleness of the martyr. The Covenant with God, when kept, produces + holiness, tenderness, charitableness, and divinest sympathy; turns life + into an overflowing fountain of goodness. They, who follow the Banner of + the Covenant in spirit and in truth, will aim at the very climax of + Christian character, moral culture, and heroic service through Jesus + Christ. +</p> +<center> + THE EMBLEM OF WAR. +</center> +<p> + The standard of religion in the Covenanted Church recognizes an + uncompromising conflict in the world. Where hostile forces are encamped, + the banner means battle. The martyrs were carried into this conflict, by + their zeal for God's House and love to Jesus Christ. Their fight was + against the tyranny of Civil government and the corruption of the + Church. They fought well, resisting the aggressor at every point of + attack. +</p> +<p> + We must open our eyes wide, to see the forces on either side. The + persecution was merely the crimson line, along which the kingdom of + Christ and the kingdom of Satan came into collision. These kingdoms + stretch beyond our vision, far away into the spiritual world, each + having immense resources and innumerable battalions for the war. The + firing lines are merely the visible places that project themselves upon + our horizon. The human struggle, the din of battle, the blood, the + groans, the graves, are merely the evidence of the momentum of these + tremendous powers, grinding each other at the points of contact. It is + Satan against Christ, in his effort to waste the Church, suppress the + truth, crush mankind, and despoil Jesus of His crown, people, and + kingdom. It is Christ against Satan, determined to resist, defeat, + enchain, and imprison that old dragon. +</p> +<p> + This war still rages. The powers are the same as in the days of old, + though the methods of warfare be changed. Christ still calls for + soldiers of the Covenant, men of spirit, courage, and unshaken faith. He + needs consecrated men, to hurl them against the organized powers, and + inbreaking hordes, that are desecrating the Sabbath, corrupting the + Church, maiming the truth, debauching morality, bribing conscience, + licensing drunkenness, desolating the home, adulterating religion, + worshiping wealth, crushing the poor, chaining manhood to secrecy, + denying God in government, and the Lord Jesus Christ on His throne. Men + are needed, men of the martyr type, men who count not heads, but + principles. Men are in demand, men who find victory in defeat, men who + see the mountains filled with horses and chariots, the mighty host of + God. +</p> +<center> + THE GREAT INHERITANCE. +</center> +<p> + The Church of the Covenanters has a precious inheritance. The + achievements of the past, the privileges of the present, and the + victories of the future—all, all are hers, if she be faithful. The Old + Blue Banner leads to the world-wide triumph of the principles it + represents. This is no presumption; it is a foregone conclusion, the + very language of logic. The certainty is based on God's revealed + purpose, and glows in the richest hues of prophecy. Humility forbids + boasting; we have not said that the Covenanted Church shall have this + honor. But the Banner of the Covenant, by whomsoever borne, will surely + be glorified with victory, as Jesus Christ, the great Captain, leads His + conquerors to universal conquest. +</p> +<p> + The Covenant contains all Bible principles that apply to Church and + State; it is neither sectarian nor sectional. The Covenant abhors + sectarianism. It contains the universal principles which must become + universal in practice ere the world bask in Millennial glory. The true + Covenanter is no sectarian. He occupies the center of a circle that + contains all revealed truth, and he is pledged to all known duty. +</p> +<p> + The martyrs died in the assurance of the triumph of the cause for which + they suffered. "Do not weary to maintain the present testimony," said + dying Renwick. "When Christ goeth forth to defeat anti-Christ, with that + name written on His vesture and on His thigh, KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF + LORDS, He will make it glorious in the earth." +</p> +<p> + Marriage with the Son of God awaits the Church. Covenanting with the + King of glory awaits the nations. +</p> +<p> + "And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice + of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, + Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. +</p> +<p> + "Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to Him: for the marriage of + the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready. +</p> +<p> + "Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the + Lamb." +</p> +<hr> +<center> + POINTS FOR THE CLASS. +</center> +<p> + 1. Describe the Banner of the Covenant. +</p> +<p> + 2. What motto on the Covenanters' Banner? +</p> +<p> + 3. What large meaning in the motto? +</p> +<p> + 4. Why ought the truth of Christ have wide publicity? +</p> +<p> + 5. What should be the spirit and character of Covenanters? +</p> +<p> + 6. What hope is there of the world-wide success of Covenanted + principles? +</p> +<p> + 7. What is the duty of the present generation in the great conflict? +7. What is the duty of the present generation in the great conflict? +</p> +<br> +<br> +<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 13570 ***</div> +</body> +</html> diff --git a/13570-h/images/image_1.jpg b/13570-h/images/image_1.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..06feee7 --- /dev/null +++ b/13570-h/images/image_1.jpg diff --git a/13570-h/images/image_10.jpg b/13570-h/images/image_10.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..8ffeb94 --- /dev/null +++ b/13570-h/images/image_10.jpg diff --git a/13570-h/images/image_11.jpg b/13570-h/images/image_11.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..5ad23c3 --- /dev/null +++ b/13570-h/images/image_11.jpg diff --git a/13570-h/images/image_12.jpg b/13570-h/images/image_12.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..217ba18 --- /dev/null +++ b/13570-h/images/image_12.jpg diff --git a/13570-h/images/image_13.jpg b/13570-h/images/image_13.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 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