The following is taken from the Facebook page of Caleb Hickam:
As America prepares to celebrate 250 years of independence, Christians give thanks for our religious liberty. When the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution was ratified—guaranteeing the right of individuals to worship God according to the dictates of their own conscience—it was an answer to prayer. A prayer that believers had been praying since the Apostle Paul wrote in A.D. 66:
1 Timothy 2:1–2 KJV
“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”
What many Christians in America—and even many Baptists—do not know is how God used Baptist believers in the colonial period to serve as a living object lesson, demonstrating to the Founding Fathers the great cost of liberty.
Many Baptist preachers and church members were beaten and imprisoned for preaching the gospel without a license from the government. Many of the Founding Fathers, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison, became well acquainted with these persecuted Baptist preachers, and soon they became allies in the battle for liberty.
This beautiful painting by renowned artist Ron Adair depicts the incredible true story of the great American patriot and statesman Patrick Henry. Upon learning that three Baptist preachers were on trial for the charge of “preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ contrary to the law,” Henry mounted his horse and rode some fifty miles to defend them pro bono, ultimately securing their freedom.
Ron Adair has painted several works depicting events from Baptist history, including the ride of Martin Gambill and the early Texas Baptist Z. N. Morrell.
In time for the 250-year celebration, prints of this remarkable and historic work are now available.
In a world that is becoming increasingly anti-Christ and hostile to religious liberty, it is more important than ever for us to promote and preserve these freedoms. One great way to help impart these principles to the next generation is by helping them connect with the past.
Cost: $175 (shipping included)
Size: 23.75 × 31.25 inches
If you would like one of these prints, please email the editor at randy@watchmanswarning.com.
About the Author
