Anne Hutchinson: Obeying God Rather Than Men

Anne Hutchinson lived in the Massachusetts Bay Colony in the 1630s. She loved the Word of God and wanted to talk about it with others. She began holding Bible studies in her home, first with women, then with men as well. People came to hear her speak of God’s grace and the assurance of salvation. But the leaders of the colony saw her meetings as a threat. They accused her of rebellion against their authority.

Anne never set out to fight the ministers. She simply wanted to point people back to Scripture. Yet her words cut across the teaching that salvation rested on outward works. She reminded people that salvation is by faith alone in Christ. Her influence grew so large that she was put on trial, found guilty, and banished from the colony in 1637.

Her story is a reminder that God’s truth often stirs opposition. The Bible says, “But Peter and the apostles answered, ‘We must obey God rather than men’” (Acts 5:29). When human authority clashes with God’s Word, the choice is clear.

Anne also believed that every believer should know the Scriptures for themselves. The apostle Paul wrote, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). This is the call for all of us. We must know the Bible, not just listen to others tell us what it says.

The Spirit of God is also our teacher. John wrote, “As for you, the anointing which you received from Him remains in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you remain in Him” (1 John 2:27). Teachers are valuable, but no one can replace the Spirit’s leading through the Word.

Anne Hutchinson’s life warns us of another truth. Jesus said, “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves” (Matthew 7:15). Those who set aside the grace of God and replace it with man-made rules are leading others astray.

Her life was not easy, and her end was tragic. But the lesson still stands. God’s Word cannot be silenced. Every believer is called to study it, trust it, and live by it.

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“What I write is not for everyone, but what I write is meant for someone.” – Dean Butler

I am the author of two books: Embracing God's Wisdom: A Journey of Faith and Reflection and Embracing God’s Wisdom: Paul’s Commands for Victorious Living. Both are available on Amazon.

This work may be shared for ministry or personal use, but please credit the author when doing so. © Dean Butler – Dean’s Bible Blog. All rights reserved.

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