Proof The Bible Is True

As long as men and women go in to battle for their country, religion will go hand in hand with military service. But a Revolutionary War relic is highlighting the way the official recognition of faith is changing.

When 40-year-old Francis Merrifield marched away from the Battle of Bunker Hill in June of 1775, he was certain the divine hand of God had pulled him safely through the fierce fighting. Dr. Scott Stephenson of the Museum of the American Revolution – set to open next year in Philadelphia – says Merrifield penned a pledge in the front of the holy book that had brought him comfort before the battle.

Stephenson quotes that pledge: “I desire to bless God for his kind appearance in delivering me and sparing my life in the late battle fought on Bunker’s Hill. I desire to devote this spared life to His glory and honor. As witness my hand, Francis Merrifield.”

The museum purchased the Merrifield Bible at auction last week for $161,000. Stephenson says the sentiments penned in the beginning of that Bible are likely common to many soldiers.

“A lot of fighting men and women today would probably feel a real connection to someone like Francis Merrifield,” Stephenson offers.

Historian David Barton says that’s undoubtedly the case, but argues the current administration is certainly making it more difficult.

Read More: Faith and military service – sadly, a fading combo