Alexander Shields
A Hind Let Loose
Or, An Historical Representation of the Testimonies of the Church of Scotland for the Interest of Christ. With the True State Thereof in All Its Periods
"A Hind Let Loose" by Alexander Shields is a historical representation written in the late 18th century. This treatise chronicles the testimonies of the Church of Scotland, highlighting the struggles, sufferings, and resilience of its members against various adversaries, including papists and prelatists, while asserting the importance of faith and liberty in Christ. It serves both as a historical account and a vindication for the contemporary testimonies of the Presbyterian remnant in Scotland. The opening of "A Hind Let Loose" presents a preface that sets the tone for the book's exploration of the Church of Scotland's historical conflicts and the moral and spiritual imperatives those struggles entail. Shields reflects on the dire state of the church, caught between tyranny and oppression, and emphasizes the need for a firm and sincere witness to the truth of Christianity. This passage underscores the historical significance of Scotland's past in relation to the present, laying a foundation for discussing the testimonies of various groups throughout history, notably the ancient Culdees and the Lollards, while asserting the continuity of their fight for religious freedom and truth against the backdrop of increasing adversity.