27 July 2026 : Acts 17, Matthew 18: 17th Century Church History, Religious Liberty, and Separatists Memorable Monday

: Acts 17, Matthew 18: 17th Century Church History, Religious Liberty, and Separatists In this episode of Memorable Mondays with Rocky Stevenson Pastor of Benoni Bible Church, we step across the threshold into the 17th century—an era defined not just by the Reformation, but by a passionate movement toward biblical church structure, religious liberty, and freedom of conscience. As ordinary believers gained access to the Scriptures in their own tongue, they began examining daily whether state-mandated religion aligned with God's Word (Acts | 17:11). This session explores the inevitable collision between royal authority and Christian conscience under King James I. While many Puritans sought to reform the Church of England from within, radical Separatists looked to passages like Matthew | 18:20 to define the true local church—not as a state institution, but as a gathered community under the sole lordship of Jesus Christ. Facing severe persecution, fines, and imprisonment, these early believers stood firm on the convictions of Acts | 5:29, choosing to obey God rather than men. Their sacrifice paved the way for modern freedom of worship and birthed historic denominational movements, including the Baptists. We invite you to listen, reflect on the price paid for our spiritual heritage, and give thanks for the freedom to gather around God's Word today. #ChurchHistory #Acts17 #Matthew18 #Acts5 #ReligiousLiberty #17thCentury #Puritans #Separatists #BiblicalWorship #ChurchMembership #FreedomOfConscience #MemorableMondays #RadioPulpit