AMERICA'S WHEAT, TARES & HOPE Chris discusses some of the historic testimony of William Bradford, the chief governor of the Plymouth Plantation, who clearly acknowledged that the new colony had been established by God-fearing men and women who desired to honor Christ and the Gospel; but also wrote about the presence of "so many wicked persons and profane people" that also arrived early on. In his explanation for how this happened, Bradford makes reference to Matthew chapter 13 and the parable of wheat and tares. Also discussed is the beautiful testimony he gave about God's providence for the early settlers in the midst of many hardships. Bradford believed that God permitted such difficulties so that all men "might be encouraged to depend upon God in their trials, and also to bless His name when they see His goodness towards others."