Marsden: Our History of New Zealand

When Marsden came, he surveyed the land much like Nehemiah, he went around counting the cost. He saw the great harvest ahead. "I shall now proceed to notice the first dawn of the rising of the sun of righteousness upon the poor benighted heathen of New Zealand."

He's not speaking of the Europeans but the Maori. He refers to them as New Zealanders, as a Christian he refers to them as heathen of New Zealand (unsaved).

Captain King wanted some New Zealanders (Maori) to instruct Europeans how to dress the flax... (early engagement)

Two young chiefs, Hoodoo and Tokee lived at the Governors house. He treated them with the kindest attention. He provisioned them various instruments for agricultural purposes, such as axes, and spades.

There were nine years where little communication took place between New Zealanders and Europeans.

He had taken time to understand the characteristics of a young chief called Tippahee — A man of high rank and influence in his own country.

Marsden saw their great need for the Gospel (Good News). "How could they believe on him of whom they had not heard, and how could they hear without a Preacher, and how could they preach except they be sent."

It was here at this point, that Marsden is resolved to return to England and request for Missionaries to come to New Zealand for the work of the Gospel. (many labourers).

When Marsden returns, he receives tragic news—two misfortunes had befallen in a short time.

Ship "Boyd", of 600 tons, had been burnt, and the Captain and the crew all murdered.

This lit the fuse for another tragedy on Tippahee's Island when a retaliation occurred and Tippahee was wrongly accused and murdered. Shot 7 times.

Truly, Marsden was right—the Gospel was greatly needed in New Zealand then, and it is still needed today.

John 3:16 — For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

“The Bible is not a white man’s book, and it’s not a black man’s book. It is for everyone, everywhere.” — Billy Graham (SBC)