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A Model of Christian Charity by John Winthrop - Analysis

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THEMES Variability of creatures under god Quoting from Scripture Laws governing proper social behavior Interpretation of the bible Cockiness that they are the chosen ones Body of Chris Love Individual conduct to benefit the common good Generosity Assistance to those in need KEY WORDS His (God's) laws STYLE AND DEVICES Quoting scripture Question and answer format John Winthrop

"A Model of Christian Charity" by John Winthrop - Summary

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God has made the world so that there are those who are less fortunate, and more fortunate. The reasons are: 1. To be in accord with the variability present in the natural world. Also, it is more satisfactory to gain followers of God secondhand, via a man messenger than directly by God accruing them.  2. The variation in the goodness of people gives God the opportunity to use his power to moderate vices, and support and endow with virtues.  3. Variety causes men to need one another and thus grow closer together. The difference in men is not because some are better than others but because this serves God and all God's men. People should show mercy and exercise justice toward one another, and be governed by the Laws of Nature (love thy neighbor as you love yourself) and Gospel (hospitality, as dictated by the Gospel). The following is in Q&A format: Men should help others in need. They should behave in this way because they care for one another as much as they ca