Author
Samuel West
Samuel West (1730–1807) was a Congregationalist minister and theologian whose Election Sermon of 1776 articulated a sophisticated defense of American independence grounded in natural rights theory and reformed Protestant theology. His work exemplified the intellectual fusion of Enlightenment political philosophy with Calvinist doctrine that characterized Revolutionary-era New England clergy, positioning him among the significant theological voices legitimizing colonial resistance to British authority. West's sermons remain important historical documents for understanding how American religious leaders reconciled their theological commitments with emerging democratic principles during the founding era.
From The Election Sermon
by sal PREACHED BEFORE THE HONORABLE Council, AND THE HONORABLE | Hovsx of REPRESENTATIVES, or u Typ Colony of the MagSACHUSETTs-Bay, so "ob Nzw-ENGLAN p. MA ggth, 1776. Bains my Aunivingany For” THE Exserio ov run uo COUNCIL vor Tus Cor tr. By SAMUEL WE! Patton os A Chuxcn tn DaaTMOuT Ho And | will restore thy judges av abe first, AY u as at the beginnin ginning : : afterward thou shalt be called the city of righteousness, the faithful city, Is a. 4- 26. Theic children also shall be as aforetime, and their e shall be eflablisked. before me, * T will punish all that oppress them : and their nobles shall be ood themselves, and their governor shall proceed srom the midst of them, Jees; 30. 20. 2r. As free and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness;... but as the ts of GOD; 1…
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Works in the Library 2
The Election Sermon 1776
West's 1776 election sermon to Massachusetts leadership explores the theological and political principles underlying colonial governance during the Revolutionary period.
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Election Sermon 1786
West's 1786 sermon to Massachusetts Commonwealth leadership addresses post-Revolutionary governance, emphasizing religious and moral foundations for the new state constitution and civil order.
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