Roger Williams (theologian)

:For other men named Roger Williams, see Roger Williams.

Removal to America

In 1630 Roger and Mary Williams set sail for Boston on the Lyon. Arriving on February 5, 1631, he was almost immediately invited to supply the place of the pastor, who was returning to England. But he had found that it was "an unseparated church" and he "durst not officiate to" it. He was prompted to give utterance to his conviction, formed no doubt before he left England, that the magistrate may not punish any sort of "breach of the first table ," such as idolatry, Sabbath-breaking, false worship, and blasphemy and that every individual should be free to follow his own convictions in religious matters.

Related Topics:
Boston - February 5 - 1631

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The first idea--that the magistrate should not punish religious infractions--meant that the civil authority should not be the same as the ecclesiastical authority. The second idea--that people should have freedom of opinion on religious matters--he called "soul-liberty." It is one the foundations for the United States Constitution's guarantees of non-establishment of an official state religion and of freedom to choose and practice one's own religion. It is also a hallmark concern of most Baptists in America today.

Related Topics:
Baptists - United States Bill of Rights

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The Salem church, which through interaction with the Plymouth colonists had imbibed Separatist sentiments, invited Williams to become its teacher; but his settlement was prevented by a remonstrance addressed to Governor Endicott by six of the Boston leaders. The Plymouth colony then received him gladly as teacher or associate pastor. Here he remained about two years, and, according to Governor Bradford, "his teachings were well approved."

Related Topics:
Salem - Plymouth - Governor Endicott

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