Robert MacWard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Robert MacWard |
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MacWard from a painting in the Scots Kirk, Rotterdam
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| Personal details | |
| Birth name | Robert MacWard also spelled M'Ward, M'Cuard, MacUard or M'Vaird |
| Born | 1633 Glenluce |
| Died | 1681 Gardners gives "May or June" Rotterdam |
| Nationality | Scottish |
| Denomination | Presbyterian |
Robert MacWard (born 1633, died 1681) was an important Scottish minister during a tough time in history. He was part of a group called the Covenanters. These were people who wanted to protect their religious freedom in Scotland.
MacWard was known for his strong beliefs and for standing up for what he thought was right. He faced many challenges, including being sent away from his home country. Even so, he continued to teach and write about his faith.
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Early Life and Education
Robert MacWard was born in Glenluce, a place in Galloway, Scotland. He was a very bright student. He studied at the University of St. Andrews. Later, he also studied at the University of Glasgow.
In 1653, he became a teacher, or "regent," at Glasgow University. He was then ordained as a minister in 1656. He served in the Outer High Church in Glasgow, looking after different parts of the parish over the years.
Standing Up for His Beliefs
After the king returned to power in 1660, things changed for people like Robert MacWard. The new government wanted to control the church more. In February 1661, MacWard preached a sermon. In it, he openly disagreed with new laws that went against the Covenanters' beliefs.
He said he wanted to be free from any guilt related to these new laws. He also prayed that God would remember his stand. Because of this sermon, he was arrested and taken to Edinburgh. He was put in prison.
Trial and Banishment
Robert MacWard was accused of teaching things against the king. He had to appear before the Scottish Parliament in June 1661. He gave a speech to defend himself.
Even though they delayed his case, Parliament decided to banish him. This meant he had to leave Scotland. He was allowed to stay for six months in Scotland, but only one month in Glasgow. He was also allowed to collect his pay for the next year before he left.
Life in Exile
After being banished, Robert MacWard moved to Holland. He continued his work as a minister there. In 1676, he became a minister at the Scots Church in Rotterdam.
However, King Charles II of England asked the Dutch government to remove him. So, in 1677, MacWard was forced to leave Rotterdam. He moved to Utrecht for a short time.
In 1678, he was able to return to Rotterdam. He lived there until he passed away in December 1681. He was about 54 years old. Robert MacWard was known for his strong faith and courage. He faced many difficulties but remained cheerful. He married a woman named Marion Cullen, who was the widow of John Graham. They did not have any children together.
His Writings
Even while in exile, Robert MacWard wrote many books and papers. These writings helped explain his beliefs and support others who were suffering for their faith. Some of his important works include:
- The True Nonconformity (1671)
- The Poor Man's Cup of Cold Water (1678)
- Earnest Contendings for the Faith (1723)
He also wrote introductions and notes for books by other important religious leaders of his time.
See also
