The Final Words of Martyr John Dick

The following words were proclaimed from the scaffold prior to the death of John Dick who was arrested for treason by the Anglican Church.  John Dick was a Covenanter and during the 1600's there was a struggle between the Anglican Church and the Covenanters.  As a result of his arrest, he was sentenced to death on March 5, 1684.  Here are John Dick's final words.

"I come here this day, and would not change my lot with the greatest in the world.  I lay down my life willingly and cheerfully for Christ and His cause and I heartily forgive all mine enemies.  I forgive all them who gave me my sentence, and them who were the chief cause of my taking; and I forgive him who is behind me [the executioner].  I advise you who are the Lord's people, to be sincere in the way of godliness, and you who know little or nothing of the power thereof, to come to Him and trust God, He will not disappoint you.  I say trust in the Lord, and He will support or strengthen you in whatever trouble of affliction you may meet with.  I remember, when Abraham was about to sacrifice his son, Isaac said, "Here is the wood, and the fire, but where is the sacrifice?"

He looked up at the gallows, then out to the crowd, and continued, "Now blessed be the Lord, here is the sacrifice and free will offering.  Adieu, farewell all friends."