Declension in a Bible Commonwealth.

The article presents an in-depth exploration into the religious views of the 17th century Puritan society of Massachusetts and its impact upon the population's perceptions of the success or failure of the Commonwealth. Discussion is given examining the underlying Calvinistic political-theological doctrines of a Biblical and covenant-based community in Massachusetts history. Analysis is particularly given to the public opinions regarding theodicy and the alleged failure of the colony due to moral decline. The writings and views of several leaders are cited including the founding governor John Winthrop and the late 17th-century minister Cotton Mather.