An illustration from the life of William Hunter may shed some light. Living in the mid-1500s and raised in a Christian home, Hunter developed a love for the Bible and was found to be reading it often, even while walking down the street. He came into disfavor with the law for not attending the required mass, explaining to the sheriff that reading the Bible is worship.
A failed attempt was made to coax him to obey. He was put in stocks for days before being chained in prison for nine months as a result. Hunter was then sentenced to return to his small village to be burned at the stake. His final words as the flames licked at his feet were, "I am not afraid."
He was confident in the truth and kept the faith no matter what. A monument in Brentwood, England carries this message today:
William Hunter: Martyr
Committed to the flames on March 26, 1555
Christian Reader; learn from his example to
Value the privilege of an open Bible.
And be careful to maintain it.
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