The Sin and Danger of Self-Love Described by a Sermon Preached At Plymouth, in New-England, 1621

"The Sin and Danger of Self-Love" by Robert Cushman is a sermon presented in Plymouth, New England, during the early colonial era, that meditates on the perils of selfishness, highlighting its potentially destructive impact on both individuals and the collective. Set against the backdrop of early American colonization, the sermon explores the negative consequences of prioritizing personal desires above communal harmony, drawing upon religious teachings, particularly those of the Apostle Paul. Cushman uses biblical wisdom to illustrate the dangers of excessive self-interest, cautioning that an overemphasis on one's own needs can lead to ethical lapses and community conflicts, examining how people pursue selfish goals through greed, enjoyment, and ambition. The sermon champions self-sacrifice and dedication to the common good, suggesting that genuine satisfaction and strong communities emerge from prioritizing shared welfare over personal gain, with Cushman calling on the congregation to turn away from self-centered behavior and embrace a life of service and mutual support in a developing new world.