Epilogue: Looking Backwards, and Ahead

Abstract

Puritanism began with the beliefs of zealous men and women who were convinced that they had a responsibility to serve God by perfecting the Church of England, and, eventually, all of Christendom. Puritans were inspired by access to the Bible in their own tongue, and possessed of a belief that God would provide them through his Holy Spirit with grace that would enable them to see the truth in the Bible. They sought each other out to share their insights and experiences, creating dynamic communities of godly believers. They were to be lights to lead others to the biblical truths. They valued the insights of clergymen who had superior education, but were divided over how important that was, many believing that the experience of grace, more than book learning, was the essential means that enabled a Christian to recognize and edify fellow believers.