CHRIST Victorious over the Powers of Darkness, by the Light of His preached Gospel.
A SERMON Preached in BOSTON, December 12. 1733. At the ORDINATION of the Reverend
- Mr. Stephen Parker,
- Mr. Ebenezer Hinsdell, and
- Mr. Joseph Seccombe,
Chosen by the Commissioners to the Honourable SOCIETY for Propagating Christian Knowledge, at Edinburgh, to carry the Gospel to the Aboriginal Natives on the Borders of New England.
By Joseph Sewall, D. D. Pastor to a Church of CHRIST in Boston.
To which are annexed, A brief Account of the Honourable SOCIETY and of the present Mission, with an Abstract of the Ordination Prayers, and the Charge given by the Reverend Dr. COLMAN.
And the Right Hand of Fellowship given by the Reverend Mr. PRINCE.
BOSTON: Printed and Sold by S. KNEELAND & T. GREEN, in Queen-street. MDCCXXXIII.
To the Honourable and Reverend The SOCIETY for Propagating CHRISTIAN KNOWLEDGE, at Edinburgh.
YOUR Correspondent Members in New England, by the Blessing of GOD on their Endeavours, according to the Trust reposed in Them, having seen the Solemn Ordination of Your Three Missionaries to the Natives on our Borders, approved and attended joyfully by the Churches of CHRIST here; were pleased to order the Sermon preached, together with the Charge given, and the Fellowship of the Churches testified on that Occasion, to be printed; and that the Whole should be humbly Dedicated to YOU in their Name.
In Obedience therefore to the Command of His Excellency our GOVERNOUR, and of the Gentlemen your Commissioners here, we have the Honour to present the following Sheets to Your Honourable Board; believing [Page] that notwithstanding all the Defects which Persons of your Learning will easily see in them, yet they will find a candid Acceptance with You: And that the Knowledge of this Beginning of your Mission will excite, as the Thanksgivings of Many to GOD, and their Prayers for the Progress of it under the Smiles of His Providence and Grace, so likewise the Charitable Contributions of Some for the more effectual Support of it in Times to come.
You have made us too much Parties in the glorious Design of your Incorporation, for Us to allow Our Selves to go into the Praises due to it, which must needs be in all the Churches of CHRIST, so long as the true Intention of the pious Donors is faithfully pursued, as we are confident it always will be by You, in the Propagation of the Principles of the Christian Protestant Religion in Places that most need the Knowledge thereof, and among People that are indeed perishing for want of it. Not to keep strictly to these Rules were to prostitute a very Sacred Trust and Confidence reposed in You, and to forfeit the Blessing of a Righteous Providence.
We thank GOD who has so far crown'd your sincere Labour of Love with Success in Your own Isles and High-lands: And tho' Clouds and Darkness do very much incompass your present Excellent Attempt here in our Borders, by reason of the Prejudices of Popery sown in the Minds of the Salvages by the Jesuits and Friars who sojourn among them; yet there is nothing too hard for GOD: Or if He deny the desir'd Success we trust He will say, "You did well that it was in your Heart; and our Brethren here who are Companions with your Missionaries at Home in the Kingdom and Patience of JESUS CHRIST, will with them be precious in the Eyes of the LORD.
[Page] Our Days are happily fallen in those Times whereof the DIVINE SPIRIT spake to the Prophet Daniel, when many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased. The BLESSED AND ONLY POTENTATE in these His Times is performing this by the Navigation of Great Britain, and other Kingdoms of Europe. For how easily and swiftly is the Knowledge of the True GOD, and of the Only SAVIOUR, communicated hereby from one End of the Earth to the other? And O that the Maritime Protestant Powers would more bring their Glory and Honour into the Administration of this Service! not only by granting their Letters Patents in Favour, of it to the Rich and Pious in their Dominions that are well disposed toward it, but also by Opening of Their Own Treasures for its Support! As David set his Affection to the House of his GOD, and gave of His own proper Good, of Silver and Gold.
We are sure that Empires and States, Provinces and Cities cannot better consecrate a Part of their Riches unto CHRIST. And the Promise of the GREAT GOD which stands so near the Prophesy before mentioned from the Book of Daniel, is well worthy of the ambitious Regards of the many Noble and Mighty of this World; and should inspire Them as well as the Poor Ministers and Missionaries in the Kingdom of our LORD JESUS: ‘AND THEY THAT BE WISE SHALL SHINE AS THE FIRMAMENT, AND THEY THAT TURN MANY TO RIGHTEOUSNESS AS THE STARS FOR EVER AND EVER.’ This gracious Promise is not so much to be understood (as a worthy Divine has long since observed, in his Dedication of his Theory of the Earth to the late Excellent Queen MARY) of the Illumination ‘and Conversion of single Souls, as of Nations and People; the turning the WORLD to Righteousness. They that lead on that happy Work shall be distinguished in Glory from the rest of Mankind.’
[Page] This is the proper Work of SOCIETIES and Combinations of Men, under the Countenance of Christian PRINCES: And may the Illustrious House of our KING bear away a glorious Part of the Recompences in the Day of CHRIST, that shall be to the Societies of his Subjects, who are by His Authority spreading the Knowledge of the Way of Salvation to the Ends of the Earth.
We need not ask your continued Prayers for Us while we are ministring under You, and much less a Remembrance at the Throne of Grace for Your Missionaries who are returned to their respective Posts of Service; Nor shall we cease to pray for the Honourable Society, that the special Direction of GOD may ever attend their Counsels, and His Blessing always crown their faithful Endeavours with great Success.
- Benjamin Colman,
- Joseph Sewall.
CHRIST Victorious Over the Powers of Darkness, By the Light of His Preached Gospel.
IN this Chapter Paul declares before King Agrippa and others, his extraordinary Conversion and Call to the Apostolic Office. When he set out on his Journey towards Damascus, it was breathing out threatnings and slaughter against the Disciples of the LORD; but behold, the triumph of Almighty Power and Sovereign Grace! In the way, our exalted SAVIOUR shin'd down upon him with a Light above th [...] brightness of the Sun; and when he was [Page 2] fallen to the Earth, said to him, Saul, Saul, why persecuted thou me? So near is the relation between CHRIST the Head, and the Members of His mystical Body, that what is done to them, he takes as done to himself. 1 Cor. xii. 12. As the body is one and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. Mat. xxv. 40. And now, trembling, he says, Who art thou Lord? He knew not that JESUS was the promised Messiah, till he thus revealed himself to him. And how wonderful is it that this Appearance should be, not only to Convert him, but also to Call him to be an Apostle, that he might Convert many others! Divine Goodness overcame his Evil, and where Sin did abound, Grace super-abounded.
I shall here take notice of several things as they lie in the Text. 1. He was Call'd to be a Minister, and this he had in common with others that preach the Gospel; however he was also call'd to be a Witness of the Resurrection of JESUS CHRIST, whom he had now seen; and received extraordinary Gifts whereby he might confirm his Testimony. 2. We have a Promise of deliverance from the People &c. ver. 17. By the People, understand the Jews, who were many of them filled with rage against him upon his turning Christian. GOD protected him under innumerable Dangers while he had Work for him to do, and then gave him the crown of Martyrdom; Faith and patience and courage to suffer for the Name of JESUS, 2 Tim. iv. 6. Ecclesiastical History informs us that he was beheaded under Nero. 3. We have the great Errand upon which he was sent, ver. 18. To open their Eyes &c. Paul was in a peculiar manner the Apostle of the Gentiles, who were under Heathen-ignorance, and so under the power of Satan.—He is sent to turn them from darkness &c. that is, as on Instrument in the hand of CHRIST, whose Work this is. 4. We have the gracious Design of our LORD in this Work, and the End which crowns it: That they may rece [...]ve forgiveness &c. 5. We have his obedient submission to this divine Call, ver. 19. Our LORD spake to his Heart, and made him willing in the day of his power. He tells us, Gal. i 15, 16. When it pleased God to reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with fl [...]sh and blood. He look'd above himself, to him that call'd him, and without delay set about the Work; and when he had preach'd the Gospel, as is suppos'd, above twenty years, he could say, ver. 22. context. Having obtained help of God, I continue to this day.
From the Words, and as related to the Context, we may observe the following Doctrines.
DOCT. I. Our LORD JESUS CHRIST calls and sends forth the Ministers of the Gospel.
Ver. 16.—To make thee a Minister—ver. 17.—Unto whom I send thee. Indeed this Call was immediate, neither of Men, nor by Men; but by a glorious Appearance of CHRIST, and his Voice from Heaven: however, he continues to speak to his People in his Word, and to declare his will; and therefore tho' Men may be the Instruments, yet when the Rules of the Gospel of CHRIST are observ'd, the Call of Ministers is from him. This Divine Person, GOD-Man-Mediator, is the glorious Head of his Church, whose Prerogative it is to appoint the Laws and Ordinances of his House, and Officers that are to act under him in his visible Kingdom on Earth. Accordingly, after his Resurrection, He said to his Disciples, All power is given unto me in heaven and on earth. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, Mat. xxviii. 18,—20. And when our LORD ascended on high, he received Gifts for Men, and he gave some Apostles—: and some, Pastors and Teachers, Eph. iv 11. Now, that these ordinary Officers last mentioned, were appointed to succeed the Apostle, in the Work of the Ministry, is evident from the great design of this Gift and Institution. It follows, ver. 12, 13. For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. Upon which Mr. Burkitt observes, ‘the Apostle declares how long the Work of the Ministry appointed by CHRIST for his Church's edification and advantage, was to continue; namely, to the End of the World, till all come &c.’ And this is further evident from the directions given in GOD's Word, respecting the Qualifications of such Ministers, and their Separation to this Work. 1 Tim. iii. 2,—11. Tit. i. 5,—9. And whereas they stand in absolute need of the Presence of CHRIST with them, His most gracious Promise given when He commission'd his Disciples to teach in his Name, was not restrain'd to them, and the Age wherein they liv'd; but extended to Gospel Ministers to the End of the World. Mat. xxviii. 20.—Lo, I am with you alway, even to the end of the World. And inasmuch as the Great GOD our SAVIOUR makes Overseers or Bishops, and effectually calls his chosen People, by his Spirit, Act. xx. 28. Tit. iii. 5, 6. He promis'd that the HOLY GHOST, who is also a Divine Person, should be sent from the Father in vertue of his Intercession, and that to abide with his People for ever, Joh. xiv. 16, 17. Upon the whole, we may conclude, that our LORD JESUS CHRIST continueth to call and send forth Gospel Ministers.
DOCT. II. [...] LORD JESUS CHRIST sends His Ministers to open the eyes [...] turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto GOD.
PROP. I. T [...] Children of Men are since the Fall in darkness, and under the power of Satan.
GOD created Man at the first in his own Image, gave him the perfect understanding of his Law, and power to keep it; set him at the head of the visible Creation, giving him the dominion over it, and requiring him to collect the tribute of Praise which was his due from the inferiour Creatures, and pay it to him: But alass! Man being in honour abode not. Adam, who stood as a publick Person in the first Covenant, sinn'd, and we in him. Rom. v. 12. By one man sin entred into the world, and death by sin; and so death hath passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. Thus both sin and misery entred into this World, and Satan having prevail'd in his temptation, obtain'd a dreadful power.—We have the description of the apostate Children of Adam, Rom. iii. 9. They are all under sin. ver. 10. There is none righteous, no not one. ver. 16. Destruction and misery are in their ways.
1. They are in Darkness.
Darkness, in the proper acceptation of the word, signifieth the privation of light, when the Sun which rules the Day is withdrawn from us: And in a metaphorical and borrow'd sense, in which the Scriptures often useth it, darkness signifies both moral [...]d penal Evil, sin and the misery consequent upon it. Accordingly, when the Son of GOD who saves from both, was manifest in flesh, and arose as the Sun of Righteousness, to make and rule the Gospel-day; it is said that the day spring from on high visited his people, to give light to them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death, Luk. i. [...]8, 9. And such as are made an holy nation and peculiar people to GOD, are said to be called out of darkness into his marvellous light, 1 Pet. ii. 9. It's true of all that are Converted, and in an eminent manner verified in such as are turned from heathen ignorance. More particularly,
(1.) The Children of Men have their Hearts blinded, and so are alienated from the life of God Eph. iv. 18. Having the understanding darkned, being alienated from the life of God, through the ignorance that is in them, because of the [...]ndness of their heart. Indeed Men have some kind of knowledge of GOD, and of his Law which was at first written on the Heart, enough to leave even the Heathen without excuse, that when they knew God, they glorified him [...] as God. But alass [...] this [Page 5] Star-light [...] direct them how they may return to the LORD so as to [...] with him: nor yet how they may aright do his will. [...] Heathen [...]ell into the vilest Idolatries. Their foolish heart [...] and they changed the glory of the uncorruptible God, [...] image made like to corruptible man, and to birds &c. Rom. [...] 23. Wherefore GOD also gave them up to uncleanness, [...] the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own [...] between themselves; and unto vile affections, ver. 24, 2 [...] ▪ They were not only abominable in their way of Worship; but also full of all unrighteousness in their behaviour towards Men. Psal. lxxiv. 20.—The dark places of the Earth are full of the habitations of cruelty. Yea, such is the darkness of Men's minds, that when the light of the Gospel shines upon them, they need to have their Understandings opened that they may see and know the truth. Their Reason is so deprav'd by Sin, and they are so fill'd with Prejudice against the Gospel, that they will not receive the saving Truths thereof, unless it please GOD by His Spirit to heal their Souls, and restore spiritual [...]ight unto them. 1 Cor. ii. 14. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him; neither can be know them, because they are spiritually discerned. Yea, such is the enmity of the carnal Mind against GOD and his Law, that when Sinners are left to themselves, they rebel against the clearest Light. Thus it was when the Son of GOD came as the light of the World, to declare his Father, and reveal his Will. Joh. iii. 19. This is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
(2.) The Children of Men are brought into a miserable condition by Sin, and upon this account may be said to be in darkness. Calamity is fitly set forth by this similitude, and is an inseparable companion of sin, Lam. iii 2. He hath brought me into darkness, but not into light. No sooner were our first Parents fallen from God, but an horror of darkness seiz'd on them; afraid, they fled from the presence of that God in whose favour had been their Life: this lower World fell under a dreadful Curse, and hath been a dark place to their Posterity [...]ver since. Man that is born of a woman, is of few days, and full of trouble. Job xiv. 1. He is subject to great disquietments of Mind, and horror of Conscience; to Sickness, Pain, Bereavements; and in a word, to innumerable Evils Spiritual and Temporal, till his Eyes are clos'd in darkness, and he descend to the Grave, of which Job elegantly speaks, Chap. x. 22. A land of darkness, as darkness it self, and of the shadow of death, without any order, and where the light is as darkness. But alass! all this is but the beginning of sorrows which must never end.
(3.) The Children of Men are in darkness; for they lie expos'd to the eternal Torments of Hell. And there is reserved for them the [Page 6] blackness of darkness forever. Jude 13. The wages of Sin is death. Rom. vi. 23. Not only temporal, but spiritual and eternal Death. Mat. xxv. 46. These shall go away into everlasting punishment. The infinitely glorious GOD is offended, and therefore no temporary suffering of the damned can make full satisfaction; they must be forever paying the vast debt they owe to GOD's justice, and so suffer the everlasting Destruction of Body and Soul in that place of Torments, where no beam of light ever shines; for there will be a vast gulph fix'd between them and the blissful presence of GOD the Father of lights, and they must be cast out into outer darkness. Here, poor creatures, they might comfort themselves a little with sparks of their own kindli [...], but there, they lie down in sorrow; yea, sink forever in the bottomless Pit without the least gleam of hope. Psal xlix. 19. He shall go to the generation of his fathers, they shall never see light.
2. The Children of Men are under the power of Satan.
He is the ruler of the darkness of this World, and hath obtain'd a dreadful power over Men by drawing them into sin. This old Serpent beguiled Eve, and then made use of her as a [...] Instrument to tempt Adam to Eat the forbidden fruit: Thus did the [...]vil prevail, and led our first Parents and their rebellious Race captive. Eph. ii. 2. Wherein in time past ye walked—according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. The word of GOD speaks of the Apostate Angels as united under one Head, the Prince of Devils, and so forming a Kingdom of Darkness, in opposition to JESUS CHRIST, and His Kingdom on Earth. Luke xi. 18, 19. Col. i. 13. Accordingly, GOD's People are said [...] wrestle against the rulers of the darkness of this World, [...] 12. And alass! Satan finds an easy access to such as are under the guilt and dominion of Sin, and works in their Hear [...] An excellent Divine, [...] observes, "He could not come to [...] and work in her, he could not put a thought in her undiscernably, for that had been his best way; but now, we being Sinners, he can, especially those that are his own, work in them undiscernably". There's a powerful energy of Satan in many Sins committed by Men. Act. v. 3—Why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost? I do not say, that the Devil can force Men to Sin; but then, taking the advantage of the darkness and corruption of their hearts, he is powerful to deceive, and incline them to it, when their rightful LORD whom they have voluntarily forsaken, in his righteous Judgment permits him: And these [...] Creat [...], can't in their own strength, overcome his temptati [...] but are led captive by him at his* [Page 7] will: They bear his Image, and his Lusts they will do. The carnal Objects which this evil One hath to allure them, worldly Pleasures, Riches, and Honours, are exactly suited to their worldly Lusts; the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and pride of life; and he knows how to set these before them in the most advantagious light; and spiritual Objects are far above out of their sight. Thus doth he as a strong Man armed keep the Souls of Sinners; yea, he hurries them along in the way which leads to H [...]ll, his own place. And as to the Heathen World, the Devil behaves himself as the God of it, obtaining Worship from them in their vile Idolatries 1 Cor. x. 20. The things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and [...]ot to God. How dreadful is the power of Satan as it is represented in the Book of the Revelation, both in Rome pagan and antichristian! And if we look into that part of the World which is call'd Reform'd, we shall find that he hath in an amazing manner prevail'd, as a Spirit of Error, to sow damnable Heresies and doctrines of Devils, to the obscuring of the light of the Gospel; and as a Spirit of Uncleanness, to entice Men to those abominable Immoralities which are condemned by the light of Nature. But blessed be GOD, there's light arising to us under this Darkness! To us a Child is born—who is the mighty GOD, and in whom is fulfill'd that Promise, The Seed of the Woman shall bruise the Serpents Head. Heb. ii. 14. Forasmuch then as the Children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is the devil. And this divine Person is pleas'd in his adorable Wisdom and Grace, to make his Ministers whom he sends forth in his Name, Instruments in his Hand of pulling down the strong holds of Satan, and of setting up his Kingdom in the hearts of Men.
PROP. II. Our LORD JESUS CHRIST sends forth the Ministers of the Gospel, to open the eyes of Sinners; to turn them from darkness to Light, and from the power of Satan unto GOD.
But, who is sufficient for these things? Are they able, of themselves to open the eyes of the spiritually blind, and to cast down Satan from his Throne of Darkness? No surely. But an answer is ready, We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God and not of us, 2 Cor. iv. [...]. They must preach the pure Truths and Doctrines of the Gospel, and so hold forth before Men the light of the glorious Gospel; And withal give themselves to Prayer, that GOD would send down His Holy Spirit to accompany their Endeavours with Men, and that as a Spirit of Wisdom, that the eyes of their Understanding being enlighten'd, they may [Page 8] know what is the exceeding greatness of his power towards them that believe, Eph. i. 18, 19. Our SAVIOUR says to his Disciples, Mat. v. 14. Ye are the light of the World; and requires them to take care that their Light shine before Men. They must hold forth the Word of Life not only in their Doctrine, but in an holy exemplary Conversation: And in a word, use all proper means that those to whom they are sent, may behold the truth and beauty of pure Religion. And thus are they to be workers together with God, 2 Cor. vi. 1. And though the work it self is truly Divine, (it is the Work of the HOLY SPIRIT savingly to enlighten and change the Heart, and turn Sinners from the power of Satan to GOD,) yet is our glorious LORD pleased to put honour upon his Ministers in using them as Instruments in his Hand, in this wonderful Work. And thus hath GOD chosen the weak things of the World to confound the things which are mighty, that no flesh should glory in his Presence, but that he that glorieth should glory in the LORD. Who is of God made unto us Wisdom 1 Cor. 1. 2 [...], [...]1. And then, in this way our LORD pours contempt upon Satan, that haughty Spirit, while he is made like Lightning to fall to the Earth, and his power is broken by weak Men. GOD ordains strength out of the mouth of babes, to still the enemy and the avenger. Psal. 8. 2. And, in this way he also manifests his condescending Goodness to the Children of Men, while He sends such to publish the Gospel to them, as are formed out of the Clay, and whose terror need not make them afraid.
DOCT. III. The gracious design of our LORD JESUS in this dispensation of the Gospel, is, that Men may receive Forgiveness of Sins, and an Inheritance among them which are sanctified, by Faith that is in Him.
I might have connected this with the foregoing part of the verse; but as that is mention'd as the work the Apostle was sent upon, and this is here brought in as the happy fruit of it respecting those whose Eyes should be open'd; I shall consider it distinctly. In the Gospel is publish'd the glad Tidings of Pardon, and a rich Inheritance to be given to all them who receive Christ by Faith; and all to whom the Gospel comes in power, and in the Holy Ghost obtain these great Benefits.
1. Our Lord Jesus sends his Ministers to open the Eyes of Men—That they may receive Forgiveness of sins by Faith which is in Him.
Forgiveness of sin consists in the removal of the guilt of sin from off the Sinner, whereby he i [...] deliver'd from the Con [...]mning Sentence of the La [...]; and his Obligation to bear the [Page 9] Curse of it. And this is done by a gracious Act of GOD our Sovereign Lord and Lawgiver. He alone hath power to Forgive Sins. And He dispenseth this free Gift of Pardon by means of his Gospel published to Sinners, wherein the righteousness of God is reveal'd from faith to faith. Here we have the glorious discovery of the way in which we may obtain the Remission of Sins, even thro' the Blood of JESUS CHRIST, on whom GOD hath laid the Iniquities of his People, and who hath given fall Satisfaction by the Sacrifice of Himself. Here we are assur'd that as He was delivered for our Offences, so that he rose again for our Justification; and that GOD hath exalted Him with his own right Hand to be a Prince, and a Saviour, for to give Repentance to Israel and Forgiveness of Sins. Here we are taught how we may obtain this great Blessing which CHRIST hath purchased; that GOD hath set him forth to be a Propitiation, through faith in his Blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of Sins, Rom. iii. 25. And that it is of Faith, that it might be by Grace, Chap iv. 16. Now, this Faith is a Grace of the SPIRIT, whereby we believe the record GOD hath given of his Son, and firmly assent unto it, upon the Authority of his Testimony who can't lie; and accordingly accept receive and rest upon CHRIST alone for Pardon and Justification before GOD. * In Him GOD is reconciling the World to himself, not imputing their Iniquities, but "imputing the Obedience and Satisfaction of CHRIST," unto all them that believe, whether Jews or Gentiles. And when the eyes of Sinners are open'd, and they are renewed in the spirit of their minds, they behold the LORD JESUS as the Lamb of GOD which taketh away the Sin of the World, and are united to him by a true and living Faith, and so there is no Condemnation to them, being in Christ Jesus, Rom. viii. 1. And thus, though respecting them whose Sins are pardon'd, this great Benefit is free; yet is it so dispens'd, that GOD's Justice and Grace are glorified together. Rom. iii. 26.—That he might be just, and the [...] of him which believeth in Jesus.
2. Our LORD JESUS CHRIST sends his Ministers to open the eyes of Sinners,—that they may receive an Inheritance among them that are sanctified by Faith that is in Him.
GOD's People are enlightned and converted, not only in order to their obtaining the remission of Sins by Faith in CHRIST; but also that they may receive a rich Inheritance in Heaven. The word here used [...] signifies a Part or Portion, a Lot, an Inheritance. "The Inheritances of the Jews were divided by Lot, Numb. xxxiv 13." And thus the disposal of [Page 10] this Inheritance is of the LORD.† GOD's People were predestinated to it according to the eternal purpose of GOD, Eph. i. 11. In whom (that is, CHRIST,) we have obtain'd an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things according to the counsel of his own will. And they obtain a sure title to it by Faith in JESUS CHRIST the only begotten Son of GOD, and Heir of all things. Joh. i. 12. As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of GOD, even to them that believe in his Name. And if Children, then Heirs; Heirs of GOD, and joint heirs with CHRIST, Rom. viii. 1 [...]. And thus the Apostle declares to the Galatians, that GOD gave the Inheritance to Abraham by promise; that they were the Children of GOD by Faith in CHRIST JESUS; and if Christs then Abraham's Seed, and heirs according to the promise, Chap. iii. 18, 26, 29. The Inheritance here mention'd, of which the believing Gentiles as well as Jews were heirs, must be the heavenly Inheritance, of which Canaan was a type. Heb. xi. 16. They desire a better Country, that is, an Heavenly. This glorious Inheritance is reveal'd and offer'd in the Gospel; and true Believers who are enlightned by the Spirit and Word of GOD, receive JESUS CHRIST by faith, and so are entitled to this purchased Possession. But then, they can't enter upon it, till they are made meet to be partakers of it; and here also the exercise of faith is of excellent use. It is an Inheritance among them that are Sanctified: It is an Inheritance in the high and holy Place, into which nothing enters that defiles. The pure in Heart shall see and enjoy GOD: But without Holiness none shall have this beatific Vision. Heb. xii. 14. It is call'd, The Inheritance of the saints in light, Col. i. 13. An Inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, 1 Pet. i. 4. They that are blessed in heavenly Places in CHRIST, were chosen in Him, before the foundation of the World, that they should be holy, and without blame before him in love, Eph. i. 3, 4. The End and Means are connected in GOD's Decree. 2 Thes. ii. 13.—God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, thro' sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth. Accordingly, that Faith whereby GOD's People are united to and interested in JESUS CHRIST, is an active Principle of new obedience. GOD purifieth the Hearts of [...] People by it, Act. xv. 9. It works by Love, which is the fulfilling of the Law. Again, Faith is the [...] of things not seen; and while the Believer beholds the riches of Glory in this Inheritance, he is inflam'd with holy desires after it, and presseth toward the mark for the pri [...]e of the high [...] GOD in CHRIST JESUS. While he embraceth the Pro [...] of it, he confesseth himself a stranger on [...]arth, and endeavours to have his Conversation [Page 11] in Heaven. In the assurance and joy of Faith he receiveth some first fruits of the Heavenly Canaan. In a word, he is kept by the power of God through faith unto Salvation, 1 Pet. i. 5. Which is therefore said to be the End of his faith, ver. 9.
DOCT. IV. Our LORD JESUS CHRIST will be with His Ministers, and give them all that help and deliverance which are needful for them.
Ver. 17. Delivering thee &c. ver. 22. Having therefore obtained help &c. What meer Man ever pass'd through more difficult Duties or sharper Trials, than the Apostle Paul? He was in Deaths often, and yet the LORD deliver'd him See 2 Cor. xi. Yea, when the messenger of Satan buffeted him, our gracious LORD heard his cry, and said unto him, My Grace is sufficient for thee. Upon which he triumphs in CHRIST, and says, Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christs sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong, 2 Cor. xii. 7,—10. So that in him we have a most encouraging Example to confirm the truth before us: And blessed be GOD, in many others. CHRIST is GOD-Man-Mediator, and in Him as a Mediatorial Head hath it pleased the Father that al [...] fulness should dwell, Col. i. 18, 19. God giveth not the Spirit by measure to him, Joh. iii. 34. And he hath receiv'd this great Gift to bestow on his Church and People according to their several wants and necessities. And in a particular manner doth he send his Spirit to furnish his Ministers with Gifts and Graces, and strengthen them to their Work. Accordingly he commanded his Disciples to tarry at Jerusalem until they were endued with power from on high, by the promise of his Father sent upon them, Luk [...] xxiv. 49. Which was the Promise of the HOLY GHOST, which they receiv'd in an extraordinary manner after CHRIST's Ascension, Act. ii. 2,—4. iv. 33. to qualify them to carry the Gospel to the Heathen. And by the same Spirit doth our LORD continue to communicate spiritual Abilities, Gifts and Graces to them whom He sends to Preach the Gospel. Job. xiv. 16, 17. Eph. iv. 7. He strengthens them with all might by his Spirit, and thus upholds them with the right Hand of his Righteousness. And then, as CHRIST rules in the kingdom of Nature and Providence as well as of Grace, He sets bounds to the wrath of Satan and wicked Men; so that while he hath Work for them to do, neither Earth nor Hell shall hinder it. And thus obtaining Help from the Head of the Church, they continue and persevere, till they finish their Course, and the Ministry which they have received from Him.
DOCT. V. Our LORD JESUS inclineth and enableth His Ministers to obey his Sovereign Will, when call'd to the most difficult Services.
Ver. 19 I was not disobedient—He that appear'd to him, wrought effectually in him both to will and to do according to his own good pleasure; so that he was willing, a Voluntier in CHRIST's Service, in this Day of his Power. Many Objections insuperable to flesh and blood might be rais'd. Act. xxii. 19. Lord, they know that I imprison'd—And as to the Gentiles, how could he perswade them who were in gross Ignorance, and wholly given to Idolatry? How could he prevail with them to turn from their Idols, to renounce the prejudices of Education, forsake their beloved Lusts, and this World; and all this in obedience to One that suffer'd as the vilest Malefactor, to outward appearance forsaken by GOD and Man; and who requires his Disciples to deny themselves, take up their Cross and follow him. 1 Cor. i. [...]. We preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling-block. [...] unto the Greeks foolishness. It's true, here's the power [...] GOD, and the wisdom of GOD, but in a mystery; and [...] can open the eyes of the blind that they may behold it? But the Apostle conferred not with flesh and blood, Gal. i. 16. No, he look'd above himself, and in the strength of the LORD who call'd him, went about a Work above the power of Angels. A like Instance we have in the Prophet Isaiah. When he saw the Glory of the LORD, he cried out, Wo is me, for I am undone, because I am a man of unclean lips—But when touch'd with a living Coal taken from the Altar; when the vertue of CHRIST's Sacrifice, who is a Lamb slain from the foundation of the World, was apply'd to him, and he was purified by the HOLY GHOST as with Fire, then he was ready to answer GOD's Call, Here am I, send me, Chap. vi. 8. Thus the Prophet Ezekiel, tho' sent to a rebellious People, yet when the Spirit lift him up, he went in bitterness indeed; but the Hand of the Lord was strong upon him, Chap. iii. 14. Thus when JESUS call'd Peter and Andrew to make them Fishers of Men, they straightway left their nets, and follow'd him, Mat. iv. 18,—20. His Divine Power accompany'd the outward Call [...] they feel it, and instantly obey. And thus our Glorious LORD makes his Ministers to resemble Him according to their measure, who being called of GOD to the most difficult Work of all, yet said, The Lord God opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away back, Isai. l. 5.
APPLICATION.
USE. I. Are the Children of Men in Darkness,—How deplorable is their Condition! How doth it Command our Pity and Prayers!
What can be more dreadful, than to be held in these Chains of Darkness, of Ignorance and Infidelity, of Enmity against GOD and his Law; and so to be kept in bondage to Satan, who is leading such blindfold to that Everlasting Fire which is prepar'd for him and his Angels, where is the most intense heat without light. O worse than Egyptian Darkness! the Plague which follows our Apostacy from Him who is Light, and in whom is no Darkness at all. What Miseries and Woes are comprehended in that description of the Ephesian Gentiles before they enjoy'd the light of the Gospel? Chap. ii. 12. At that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the common-wealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world. Let this then move our Compassion, to consider how great a part of the World is at this Day sitting in Darkness, and in the shadow of Death; and let us earnestly beseech the LORD to send forth his Light and Truth, and give the knowledge of Salvation to such as are perishing for lack of Vision. And also, that GOD would have mercy on them which believe not, whom the God of this World hath blinded, lest the light of the glor [...]ous Gospel of CHRIST, who is the Image of GOD, should shine unto them: For if our Gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost, 2 Cor. iv. 3, 4.
USE. II. Learn the Honour and Duty of Gospel Ministers.
Of all Men, Ministers had need be very humble, le [...]t they fall into the condemnation of the Devil. However, they ought to magnify their Office, by entertaining high and honourable thoughts of it, and by taking care so to behave themselves, that others may esteem them for their Work's sake. How great is this Honour, to be sent by the King of Glory to the Sons of Men, and that upon an Affair the most important, to treat with them about the great Concerns of their Souls and Eternal State, 2 Cor. v. 20. Now then we are Ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christs stead, be ye reconciled to God. And how strongly may we hence also infer the Duty of such Ministers? Certainly, they are under indispensable Obligations to own Him who is the King of Kings, as their Sovereign LORD, by keeping close to His Instructions contained in his Word, teaching Men to observe all things whatsoever he hath commanded, and never presuming [Page 14] to teach for Doctrines the Commandments of Men. They must not preach themselves, but CHRIST JESUS the LORD. They may not lord it over GOD's Heritage; but must go before others as E [...]mples of dutiful Obedience to Him who is the LORD of all. They must always remember, that CHRIST's Kingdom is not of this World, and not inordinately seek worldly Riches, Honours and Pleasures; but rather approve themselves as the Ministers of God, in much patience, in labours, in watchings, in fastings—2 Cor. vi. 4, 5. In a word, they should endeavour in their whole Behaviour, to shew forth the virtues and praises of Him that hath called them.
USE. III. How precious is the Gospel Revelation and Ministry!
In the Gospel we have the Revelation of the Mystery of our Redemption by JESUS CHRIST, GOD manifest in Flesh: We are taught how we may obtain deliverance from the power of Sin and Satan; the only way in which we may receive the Forgiveness of Sins, and an Inheritance among them that are Sanctified. Let us then account GOD's W [...]d more to be desir'd than Gold, and the Wisdom and Knowledge therein contained as the principal thing: Let us take it as a light to our Feet, to direct us in the path of Life. Let us say, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the Gospel of Peace! and not despise the Gospel-Ministry, because we have this Treasure in earthen Vessels. Let us with most humble Thankfulness accept the unsearchable Riches of CHRIST, which they offer us in his Name, and account all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of him. Let us not look upon the Gospel as a burdensome Charge; but prize it as a rich Blessing, and chearfully do our part towards the Support of it. But the truth, and [...]ell it not, Prov. xxiii. 23. "Spare no Pains or Cost to get it, and do not forsake it for any Worldly Advantages".† Surely they can't be losers who have the Infinite GOD for their exceeding great Reward, and the riches of Glory laid up in Heaven as their Portion for ever.
USE. IV. Learn the glorious Power, and tender Pity of our LORD JESUS CHRIST.
The greatness of his power appears, in that He Commissions whom he will to Preach the Gospel to them who [...]it in darkness; in that, when the state of the [...] call'd for it, He in the most extraordinary manner [...] Instruments for [Page 15] this great Work, and gave them Success above our thought and conception. Here, we may also behold his tender Compassion to the Apostate Children of Adam. GOD the SON, who is the Brightness of the Father's Glory, hath taken ou [...] Nature into personal Union. The Word was made Flesh▪ Joh. i. 14. And thus hath GOD purchas'd the Church with his own Blood. And now, from his Exalted State, he beholds the Children of Men, and pities them under their Sin and Misery; yea, is most ready, consistent with GOD's eternal Counsels, to succour and save them. This his Divine Power and Mercy appear'd most Glorious in the primitive Times of Christianity; they still continue to appear, and will again shine forth with the brightest Lustre, when the Jews shall be call'd, and the receiving of them shall be as Life from the Dead to the Gentile Churches, Rom. xi. 15,—25. How amiable then doth our LORD JESUS appear in these Perfections? How great is His Goodness; How great is His Beauty! And how inexcusable shall we be if we despise him, and neglect his great Salvation?
USE. V. When CHRIST's Ministers are prosper'd, and their Labours crown'd with the desired Success; the Glory must be given to our LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Their Abilities for the right discharge of their Ministry are from Him. 1 Cor. [...]v. 10. I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the Grace of God which was with me. And it is He that commands the Blessing on their Labours, otherwise they must labo [...] in vain. The Apostle Paul therefore ascribes all to Him. 1 Cor. iii. 5. Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but Ministers by whom ye believed, even as the [...] gave to every man? ver. 7. So then, neither is he that [...] anything, neither he that watereth: but God that giveth the increase. And thus the Seventy Disciples whom our SAVIOUR sent forth, returned saying, Lord, Even the Devils are subject to us through thy Name! Luk. x. 17. Let Gospel Ministers then be ready to say, Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy Name give Glory; for indeed, His is the Power and the Wisdom and the Strength. The weapons of their Warfare are mighty through GOD.
USE. VI. Learn a great Duty incumbent on GOD's Covenant [...]ple; which is, to use their best Endeavours that the Light [...] the Gospel may shine to them who are in Darkness, and under the power of Satan.
The great design and use of the Gospel make this evident: By the Di [...]sation of the Word, Men are delivered from the power of Darkness, and translated into the Kingdom of [Page 16] GOD's dear Son; and so made meet to be partakers of the Inheritance of the Saints in light. Certainly then, GOD's People must not fail to publish the Gospel to others as they have Opportunity, that these may unite with the [...] in giving Glory to GOD in the Highest, and so come to enjoy Peace on Earth, the best Prosperity; under the happy Government of our LORD JESUS CHRIST. Churches are compar'd to Golden Candlesticks, Rev. i. 12. And they must accordingly hold up this Light, that it may shine to others. To them are committed the Oracles of GOD, as a sacred Depositum and Treasure; and as they must keep them, and transmit them to their Posterity; so they must further improve this rich Talent to the honour of their LORD, and the good of Men, least they fall under the doom of the slothful Servant, who hid his Lord's Talent. The two great Commands of the Law unite to strengthen their Obligation to this Duty; for so far as the Gospel prevails, GOD is made known, and Glory given to Him as the chief Good and highest End of Man; and precious Souls, more worth than a World, are deliver'd and saved. Jam. v. 20. Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins. Again, What Indignation, what Zeal should it work in us, when we behold Satan, that cursed Usurper, lording it over so great a part of the World? while the faithful Subjects of CHRIST are comparatively few, a little Flock; and how earnest should we be that these deluded Wretches, of one Blood with us, and no worse by Nature than we, may have their Eyes open'd to behold our rightful LORD, and their Hearts inclin'd to bow before Him? And considering the Word of GOD assureth us, that in the multitude of People is the King's honour †, certainly, all such as would approve themselves loyal to CHRIST, must be sensible they are [...] in [...] and gratitude to seek the Enlargement of his kingdom; and act accordingly.
Give me leave then humbly to recommend to you this pious Charity, which hath [...] tendency to promote the Glory of GOD, and [...]st Interests of Men▪ Blessed be GOD for what hath been d [...] this w [...] mo [...] privately, and by our worshipping Assemblies in their Collections. I wish that excellent Proposal might be generally accepted, viz. The having publick Collections for pious and [...] on our Anniversary Fasts and Thanksgivings. In this way we might honour GOD with our Substance, and give our helping Hand towards propagating Christian Knowledge among our own People, and the Aboriginal Natives: And certainly the generous Compassion express'd towards this poor People by the Honourable [Page 17] SOCIETIES in South and North Britain, should provoke us to an holy Emulation; especially, considering GOD hath given us the Possession of this good Land which their Ancestors once inhabited; and that this was the professed Intention of our pious Progenitors, the first Planters of this Country.†
And here, while I humbly thank our honoured Fathers in the Civil Government, for the liberal Encouragement they have been pleased to give towards this Mission which is the Occasion of our Assembling in GOD's Name this Day; I would with suitable deference propose it to their Consideration, what may further be done by this People to spread the Gospel, particularly among the Indians, which is but to build on the noble Foundation others have laid for us. And whereas Complaints have often been made, that the immoderate love and [...] of Strong Drink threaten to drown that unhappy People in [...]dition, and to defeat the great and good Design propos'd [...]n sending the Gospel to them; I would humbly move that all further needful Care may be taken to prevent so great a Mischief. And inasmuch as our Compassionate REDEEMER, while on Earth, made Men feel the Effects of his bountiful Love in their Bodies, and so prepar'd the way for their receiving his heavenly Doctrines, to the Salvation of their Souls; let us imitate this Divine Pattern, and make these poor Creatures know by things they are sensible of, that it is their Interest to be attach'd to us. O let there be such a fair and friendly Commerce carried on with them, as shall adorn the Doctrine of GOD our SAVIOUR, and in some good measure exemplify the perfect Rules of our holy Religion! O that they may behold our good Works, and glorify GOD in this day of Visitation! LORD, our Eyes are unto Thee, the GOD of Salvation, to whom belong the issues from Death: Glorify thy Name, glorify thy Son, by turning these miserable People from Darkness to Light, and from the power of Satan to GOD.
USE. VII. What hath been said may afford Direction and Encouragement to such as are call'd to Preach the Gospel in the dark Places of the Earth.
It is profitable for Instruction and Encouragement to all Gospel Ministers, who need both for the right discharge of their holy Calling, which must be attended with great Difficulties in this Evil World, where the Devil hath such power by reason of our Sin, that he can't be overcome and cast out but by the Divine Power. And in an especial manner, the Text and Doctrines may be improv'd to these Ends, by such as are sent to teach GOD's Word in Places that have been for time immemorial cover'd with thick Darkness, being destitute of the outward Revelation of the Gospel. The Direction it gives to such is, that they look above themselves to our glorious LORD, who hath all power, and that they go forth with an humble and believing Dependance on Him to whom the FATHER hath given the Heathen for his Inheritance, and who is able to assert his Right, and subdue them to the Obedience of Faith. Indeed they must heedfully observe the working of his Providence, and what intimations He gives them of his Will by his Word and Spirit; whether He qualifieth them for, and calls them to engage in such a difficult Work; and when they find good Grounds to believe that they have the Call of GOD, they should dutifully answer, Here we are, send us. They must go in Obedience to their Sovereign LORD, and with a single Eye at His Glory as their chiefest and highest End; they must go, sensible that unless He go before them, and condescend to work with and by them, they shall labour in vain; and then they should encourage themselves in the LORD, who is able to do above all we can ask or think. In the 55th. of Isaiah, where we have an illustrious Prophecy of the Call of the Gentiles, ver. 4, 5. we have also these encouraging words to strengthen the faith, and raise the hope of GOD's People, ver 8, 9. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
BUT I now proceed more directly to apply these Things to our Brethren, who [...] We are this Day separating to the great and difficult Work of Gospelizing the Aboriginal Natives [...]n our Borders.
My dear Brethren, I apprehend GOD in His good Providence calls us to make further [...] in this important Affair, notwithstanding all the Difficulties with which it is attended; [Page 19] and I trust it is pleasing to Him, that you offer your Selves, and consecrate your Service to the LORD this Day. Duty is our's, the Event and Success are [...]ntirely in GOD's Hand. Now then, let your Eyes be to our Ascended SAVIOUR, while you engage in this Work, and devoutly say with Moses, Exod. xxxiii. 15. If thy Presence go not with us, carry us not up hence. Let the governing Design of your Undertaking be to glorify GOD, by turning Sinners from Darkness to Light, and from the power of Satan to Him, that they may receive forgiveness of Sins, and Inheritance among them that are Sanctified by faith that is in CHRIST; and being sensible that the Arm of the LORD must be reveal'd to effect this, rely and rest on Him, and be ready to give the Glory of all the least Success unto Him. Praise wa [...]teth for thee, O GOD!
In the first place, Give up your selves to the Lord JEHOVAH, who is the FATHER, the SON, and the HOLY GHOST, by renewing your Covenant with Him, to be His entirely and for ever; beseeching GOD to pour out His Spirit upon you, to furnish you with all needed Gifts and Graces. Look to it, that you be united to CHRIST by His Spirit dwelling in you; that being wash'd from Sin in His Blood, and cloath'd with his Righteousness, you may be accepted in the Beloved; and then live by the Faith of the SON of GOD, and be strong in the Grace that is in CHRIST JESUS. Cry to that GOD who commanded the Light to shine out of Darkness, that He would shine into your Hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of GOD, in the face of Jesus Christ, 2 Cor. 4. 6. Hear and learn of the FATHER the great Truths and Mysteries of the Gospel, that you may be qualified to teach others the Truth as it is in JESUS. You need the teaching of the Anointing, of GOD by His Spirit; and therefore should earnestly seek to Him to send his Spirit into your Hearts to lead you into all Truth, that you may be as Scribes instructed to the Kingdom of Heaven. And the more you feel the power and taste the sweetness of GOD's Word in your own Souls, the better will you be qualified to Preach the Kingdom of GOD, and Teach those things which concern the LORD JESUS CHRIST, with all Confidence. But then, remember that while you tr [...] in the LORD, you must be found in the diligent use of Means: Give your selves therefore to Reading and Study, [...] your Circumstances will allow; and above all, study your B [...]BLES; for all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; That the man of God may [...]e perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works, 2 Tim. iii. 16, 17. And let GOD's Law and Testimony be your rule and directory in all your Instructions, or there will be no light in them.
[Page 20] And here give me leave to offer a few Hints.
Let there be a Compendium or Summary of Christian Religion agreable to the Scriptures, and as short and plain as may be, often inculcated, till the Natives shall have learned the Principles of the Doctrine of CHRIST. Declare to them the only true and living GOD, who made Heaven and Earth, and all things in them; and that He made Man upright, in His own Image. Shew them their vile and miserable State by the Fall. Declare to them that this GOD, who is the FATHER and the SON and the HOLY GHOST, hath contriv'd a way in which they may be deliver'd from their Sin and Misery. That in order to this, the Eternal SON of GOD hath taken our Nature, and became Man; that He was obedient to Death, the Death of the Cross; [...] again from the Dead, and lives in Heaven to intercede for his People. Declare to them, that this JESUS is the only Mediator between GOD and Man; and that they must pray to GOD in His Name only. Shew them the necessity of turning from all Sin to GOD in true Repentance; and of receiving the LORD JESUS CHRIST by Faith, and depending on His Righteousness for Pardon and Justification. Declare to them that GOD alone hath power to forgive Sins. Shew them the nature and use of the holy Sacraments, and that those which CHRIST hath instituted are only two, Baptism and the Lord's Supper; and labour to maintain in them an high esteem of them. Shew them that they must be taught the Principles of the Christian Religion, and subject themselves to the Authority and Laws of CHRIST, before these may be administred to them: That if they would receive saving benefit by Baptism, they must also seek the washing of Regeneration, and renewing of the HOLY GHOST, for themselves and their Offspring, that being born of Water and of the Spirit they may enter into the Kingdom of GOD. Teach them that the Lord's Supper must be receiv'd by the Communicants in both Elements, Bread and Wine; and that 'tis contrary to Sense Reason and Scripture, to imagine, that these are turn'd into the very Body and Blood of CHRIST▪ and therefore that CHRIST, who is spiritually present with his People, must be apprehended and received by faith, if they would partake in the saving virtues of his Death. And take heed you never prostitute these Sacred Mysteries of our holy Religion, by administring them to any under Heathen Ignorance, under Romish Idolatry, or that live and allow themselves in open and scandalous Immoralities.
Declare to them the Commandments of the Moral Law. That GOD only is the Object of Prayer, and all religious Worship. Tell them, forasmuch as we are the Offspring of GOD, we ought not to think that the God-Head is like unto Gold, or Silver or Stone, graven by art, and Man's device: that it is [Page 21] a most hainous Crime to worship GOD by Images; and that He who is a jealous GOD, threatens to punish this Iniquity upon Parents and their Children, unto the third and fourth Generation. Teach them to Sanctify the Sabbath Day; and in a word, the necessity of a sober righteous and godly Life▪ In particular, do all you can to convince them of the great Evil of that Sin which most easily besets them, and to keep them from it; le [...]t they wholly forget GOD's Law, and quench every good motion of His SPIRIT: Solemnly warn them of the Destruction they are bringing upon themselves by it, and how they are consuming away under the deadly influence of it.
[However, I am inform'd that tho' they have a Name for GOD, yet they have no form of taking his Name in vain, in their own Language. Be astonished, O ye Heavens, and be horribly afraid! in that this presumptuous Sin of profane Swearing is so common where the light of the Gospel shines, and GOD's glorious and fearful Name is clearly reveal'd▪ And let such bold Transgressors know, that it will be more tolerable for barbarous Indians than for them, in the Day of Judgment; when the LORD shall make it appear, that He will not hold them guiltless that take his Name in vain.]
But to return from this Digression; Declare to them, that GOD alone can change their Hearts, enable them to hate Sin, and love his Law; and then direct them to ask of GOD His HOLY SPIRIT, to sanctify them, and create them in CHRIST JESUS unto good Works. And shew them that when they have done all, they must Trust in the Merits of JESUS CHRIST, and not presume to think that they can merit by their good Works. But I forbear.
In your teaching, there must be precept upon precept, line upon line; here a little, and there a little. But how much skill and prudence do you need in this matter? Depend on GOD for all, and encourage your selves in Him, who said on the first Day, Let there be Light, and there was Light; and can now more easily shine into their Hearts to give them the knowledge of the Gospel, than you can speak a word. Who hath heard such a thing? Shall a Nation be born at once? Yes, if GOD please, a Nation shall be born in a Day, and Converts be numerous as the drops of Dew from the womb of the Morning. O that this Day of GOD's power might dawn and shine on a World sitting in Darkness! O that the poor Indians might see the light of Life, and live!
But think it not strange, if you meet with sharp Trials from the Prince of Darkness, and such as are under his power, while you are endeavouring to enlighten Men with the knowledge of JESUS CHRIST; and be ready to endure hardness, [Page 22] as [...] good Soldiers. Look to GOD continually for all that Knowledge and Wisdom, Faith and Patience, Zeal and Courage, Meekness and Self-denial, which you need; and be cloathed with Humility. Live by Faith and Prayer, and then say with the [...]almist, Psal. cxviii. 6. The Lord is on my side, I will not fear: [...]hat can man do unto me? If He be your Sun and Shield, you shall neither want Light nor Protection.
And here, for your further Encouragement, I might propose to your Consideration the Promises made to our LORD JESUS CHRIST, who sends his Ministers to open the eyes of Men—. Psal. ii. 8. Ask of me, and I will give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the utmost parts of the earth for thy possession. Isai. liii. 10.—He shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand. ver. 11. He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied. Isai. xlix. 6.—I will give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth. Again, Consider, GOD's Hand is not shor [...]n'd, that it cannot save; and the Sacrifice, by the Blood of which our SAVIOUR hath Redeemed His People out of every Kindred, and Tongue, and People, and Nation, is as full of Virtue as ever; and His Intercession as prevalent for the sending of the HOLY GHOST: so that all that the FATHER hath given Him, shall come unto Him.
I might also for your Encouragement mention the extraordinary Success which the Blessed GOD gave to the Gospel among the Heathen, as we have this transmitted to us from the Records of the Sacred Scriptures. I might also put you in mind of the wonderful Work of GOD, in causing the Light of his Gospel to shine upon our Ancestors in Great Britain, who before sat in gross Darkness; and then in recovering them from the Idolatries of Popery. When we look back on these things, we may well admiring say, What hath GOD wrought! And looking to the hole of the Pit whence we our selves were digged, you may encourage your selves in that GOD, with whom all things are possible.
And whereas the Honourable SOCIETY for propagating Christian Knowledge at Edinburgh, are under GOD the Instruments and Encouragers of your Mission, by the pious Donation of the late Reverend and Charitable Dr. Daniel Williams, of London; I may with propriety observe to you the Success which we are inform'd GOD hath already given to Their Endeavours nearer Home, among the Highlanders in Scotland, who had been sunk very low in barbarous Ignorance: Of this a Reverend Person † in a Sermon preach'd to the above-named [Page 23] Honourable SOCIETY, Testifyeth, "That many Thousands of those poor People have been taught the Knowledge of CHRIST."
However, I need not go so far to fetch Encouragement for you. It pleas'd our merciful GOD in the last Century to send His glorious Gospel to the Aboriginal Natives of this Land, who for unknown Ages had been in Heathen Darkness; and to give them the Bible in their own Language, by his signal Blessing on the Labours of our pious and renowned Eliot, whose Name, together with that of Mayhew and other Worthies, should be had in Everlasting Remembrance, in honour to our Glorious LORD, who spirited and strengthned them to this difficult Work, and made them the happy Instruments of enlightning not a few with the Knowledge of GOD, and JESUS CHRIST, whom to know is Life Eternal.† And this manifestation of Divine Power and Grace may answer an Objection: You may be ready to think with your selves, How can we go to a People of a strange Speech, and hard Language, who have not the extraordinary Gifts with which the Apostles were furnished, when they spread the Gospel among the Heathen? Let Experience answer; GOD wonderfully bless'd these excellent Persons in their diligent Endeavours to learn the Indian Tongue, and then to communicate Christian Knowledge; so that we behold a considerable number of Indian Churches Gather'd, and walking together in the Faith and Order of the Gospel; some furnish'd with English, others with Indian Pastors. Do you go, and do likewise. May you with like Zeal for the Glory of GOD, and Compassion to Men, lay out your selves in this weighty Affair, and the LORD be with you. And certainly Hi [...] Presence, and the Light of His Countenance, are sufficient to brighten the most disconsolate Circumstances of Life. The [...] Paul could say, I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I can do all things through Christ which strengthneth me, Phil. iii. 11, 13.
And further, consider what a Price is now put into your Hands to serve GOD and your Country? What great and publick Blessings you will be to this People, if the gracious Presence of CHRIST with you shall be as a Wall of Fire about us, on our Eastern and Western Frontiers. Consider, what a Honour it will be to you, if after all the Blood and Treasure spent in War with these Salvages, you must be the Instruments of obtaining the most glorious Victory over them, by subduing them to CHRIST, and the obedience of Faith. [Page 24] Upon this, I do not promise you a Corruptible Crown of fading Laurel, nor yet a Roman Triumph; Honours which engag'd the ancient Heathen in some of the most difficult Enterprizes. No! we serve a better Master; our bountiful LORD, doth not call you to strive unto Agony for such perishing things; but from His High Throne holds out to you a Crown of [...] that f [...]d [...]th not away; and His Voice from Heaven to each of you is, Be thou faithful unto Death, and I will give [...] a Crown of Life. This glorious Reward then, which CHRIST hath purchased, and freely offers to you, doth not depend upon your Success, but Fidelity. Your Judgment is with the LORD, [...]nd your Work with your GOD.
USE. VIII. In the last place, I turn myself to this Assembly: Let us bless GOD who hath cast our Lot in pleasant Places, where the light of the Gospel shines▪ and take care we do not receive this Grace of GOD in vain.
In Gospel Privileges we are Exalted unto Heaven; but we must know that if we continue unbelieving and impenitent, we shall be brought down to Hell. Let us then with godly fear attend to that word, Mat. iii. 9, 10. And think [...]t to say within your selves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of th [...]se stones to raise up children unto Abraham And n [...]w also the [...] is laid to the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit, is [...] down and cast into the fire. Let the Children of the Covenant look to themselves, and beware le [...]t that threatning should be fulfill'd in any one of them, Mat. viii. 11, 12. I say unto you, that many shall come from the east and west, and shall [...]it down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast into [...]ter darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Great is our Advantage, that unto us are committed the Oracle [...] of GOD; and we ought to be very thankful for this distinguishing Favour, that the Mystery of Salvation by JESUS CHRIST, kept secret from many others, is made manifest to us by the Scriptures. But then, let us not be high minded, but [...]ear; and seriously consider what we shall render to the LORD for so great a Benefit; least we treasure up to our selves wrath against the day of Wrath, by despising the Riches of GOD's Goodness. Let us, sensible of the Darkness and Corruption of our Hearts, ask the HOLY SPIRIT to Enlighten and Sanctify us. Let us not [...] ourselves with an outward Profession, and a Name to live; but earnestly seek a thorough Conversion to GOD, and vital Union with JESUS CHRIST, that we may be found in Him. Let us beseech the LORD to fulfil that precious Promise to us and our Children. Jer. xxxi. 33. This shall [Page 25] be the covenant that I will make with the [...]use of Israel, After th [...]se days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in [...] inward parts, and write it in their hearts, and will be their God, and they shall be my people. And let us then walk as Children of the light and day, having no fellowship with the unfruitful Works of Darkness, but rather reproving them. Let us resist the Devil, and he shall flee from us; Watch and Pray le [...]t this Evil One should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. And be not conform'd to this World▪ but be ye transformed by the renewing of your Mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect Will of GOD. Thus you may hope to enjoy the light of GOD's Countenance while passing through this World, and shall certainly come to see the good of his Chosen, and to glory with his Inheritance in Heaven. But if after all the Means GOD useth with you, you continue to reject CHRIST, to vex the HOLY SPIRIT, and to walk according to the Course of this World, according to the Spirit which now worketh in the Children of Disobedience; I say unto you, it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah, in the day of Judgment, than for you, when that Sentence must be pronounced on the Wicked, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepar'd for the devil and his angels.
And now, I call heaven and earth to [...] this day against you, that I have s [...]t before you li [...]e and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose li [...], that [...]oth thou and thy [...]eed may live. Deut. xxx. 19.
To Conclude, Let us continue in Prayer that GOD would pour out his SPIRIT on his servants now to be separated to this great and difficult Work, to Qualify and Strengthen them to the faithful Discharge of it.
Let us Pray that the Honourable SOCIETY and their Commissioners may at all times [...]joy the Direction and Assistance of GOD. That the Lord of the Harvest would from time to time send forth such Labourers into the Indian Harvest, as He shall own and bless; and [...]hat His Servants employ'd in one part of the Land and another, may have the Hand of the LORD with them; that many may believe and turn to the LORD. That the KING of [...], who is the LORD Strong and Mighty, would cast down Satan from his usurped Throne, Destroy Antichrist by the brightness of His Coming, and take to Himself his great Power and Reign. That He would sprinkle many Nations with his Blood, and pour out his SPIRIT upon all Flesh▪ and thus in a more illustrious [Page 26] [...] that Promise, Isai. xi. 6, 9. The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the le [...]p [...]d shall lie down with the kid: and the calf, and the young lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. They shall no [...] hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters [...]er the sea.
Let us pray, that both Jews and Gentiles may be gather'd, and united under this Glorious Head of the Church, and so that good Word of His be accomplished, Joh. x. 16.—There shall be one fold, or Flock,† and [...]e Shepherd.
HE which testifieth these things, [...]aith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. E [...] so Come LORD JESUS.
ERRATA. Pag. 4. for useth r. use. p. 18. f. chiefest r. chief.
N. B. Some Paragraphs omitted in Preaching are here inserted.
THE foregoing Sermon was both pr [...]ceeded and followed with fervent Prayer, suted to the very serious Occasion; wherein the Rev. Mr. William Cooper and Mr. John Webb were the Mouth of the Audience to GOD;
Dr. Colman, who had been chosen Moderator by the Reverend and Honourable Council, then took the Desk, and said,
IT is a rare and singular Occurrence in the Providence of GOD, that hath call'd this Great and Reverend Assembly together at this Time. And no doubt but many who are here present may desire to be inform'd of the several Things, occurring in the Providence of a Glorious GOD, which have been the Occasion of our present Meeting. And I think that I cannot better introduce the Solemn Action before us, in the Ordination of the Reverend and beloved Brethren here present, than by giving the following Account.
KNOW then,† that in the Year of our LORD 1701. a Number of private Gentlemen did usually meet in the City of Edinburgh for the Reformation of Manners; who reflecting on the Ignorance, Atheism, Popery and Impiety, that did so much abound in the High-lands and Isles of Scotland, did justly reckon that they flow'd in a great Measure from the Want of sutable Means of Instruction.
THIS led 'em to engage by themselves at first in a voluntary Subscription for Erecting Charity Schools in those Places of Darkness and Irreligion. But upon Trial finding Themselves not able in their private Capacity to carry on so great and publick a Work, they apply'd their Thoughts to find out Methods for a Fund equal to the Design.
IN pursuance of this they mov'd it privately to Members of the General Assembly, that the Representatives of the Church of Scotland might concur in the Work. And they had so much Success that in the Year 1706. the General Assembly took it under Consideration, and recommended it to their Commission, who published Proposals for the Propagating of Christian Knowledge in their High-lands and Isles, and also in Foreign Parts.
[Page 28] THESE Proposals we [...] sent to all the Presbyteries in Scotland, and to the several Societies there for Reformation of Manners: And in the Year 1708, Application being made to Her Majesty, Queen ANN, to countenance and support the Design by Her Royal Authority; it pleas'd Her Majesty, with the Advice of Her Privy Council to approve and recommend this most pious and charitable Design, and to grant Her Letters Patents for Erecting the Subscribers into a Society and Corporation for managing the same.
PERSONS of the highest Dignity in the Nation, both Dukes and Earls, stand at the Head of this Commission; with a long Train of Names of known Honour and Merit, and of distinguishing Character for Piety and Religion.
THE first Subscription was somewhat above One Thousand Pounds Sterl. which within twelve Years increased to above Eight Thousand: So that a vast Number of Charity Schools have been erected and are now supported by the Honourable Society: And they have their Corresponding Members at London, Dublin, Bris [...]o [...]; in Holland, and now lately here in New England. For they are expresly impower'd by the Letters Patents erecting them into a Society, to nominate fit Persons in any Place of His Majesty's Dominions, or elsewhere, for laying our such Sums as They are intrusted with.
ACCORDINGLY the Honourable Society being unanimously resolved to imploy several Ministers of the Gospel, as their Missionaries for the Conversion of Infidel Foreign Countries, chose to make the poor Heathen People about New England the first Objects of their Care; to bring them to the Knowledge of GOD in CHRIST.
To which End They did on the twenty ninth Day of April 1731. at a General Meeting nominate, commissionate and impower His Excellency Jonathan Belcher Esq with other Honourable and Reverend Persons, to be their Correspondents and Commissioners: And the first Thing they are Entrusted with is to pursue the excellent Design of the late Reverend and Charitable Dr. Daniel Williams of London, in his pious Mortification of an Estate of Fifty Six Pounds Sterling per Annum, to the Society; toward the Support of three qualified Missionaries, to labour in the Conversion of the poor perishing Natives on our Borders.
HIS Excellency in his great Wisdom, upon the Receipt of these Letters, laid the Matter before the Honourable General Court then [...]itting, who readily testified their high Approbation [Page 29] of the proposed Mission, by granting an Additional Honourable Support to each of the Missionary's for five Years.
ALSO He was pleas'd to write to the Society, who have printed His Excellency's Letter,
THAT He had receiv'd Their Commission, and did accept of being a Correspondent Member; that He gives Praise to GOD who inspired the Founders of this excellent Charity to Souls: And that as the KING has made Him the Head and Father of this Part of His Dominions, He therefore return'd Thanks to the Society in behalf of the poor Natives of the Country: And that the Society might depend on the united Endeavours of their Correspondent Members here, to do all the good Service they can in this pious Undertaking, &c.
THE Commissioners, under this Influence and Encouragement, set themselves to find Persons qualified and inclin'd to undertake a Mission of such Weight and Importance: and through the good Hand of GOD with them there willingly offer'd Themselves, upon the Motion made to them, Mr. Stephen Parker, Mr. Ebenezer Hinsdel, and Mr. Joseph Secomb; who have been already Ministring in the Places assigned them more than a Year.
AND now at the Call of the Commissioners, by Direction from the Honourable Society, whose They are under CHRIST, for the glorious Ends proposed; They do this Day here present Themselves before the LORD and his People, in His Fear and with a Reliance on his Grace which is A [...]sufficient; to take on them this Ministry among the Heathen; weighty difficult and awful as it is in it self, but most honourable in the Kingdom of our LORD JESUS CHRIST.
AND a Number of the Reverend Pastors of the Town, having received from the before named Missionaries a satisfying Declaration of their Adherence to the Principles of Religion, as they are contained in the Holy Scripture and exhibited in the Assembly's [...], are here present to commend Them by Prayer, with Imposition of Hands, to the Grace and Blessing of GOD.
THE Reverend Elders and Messengers of the Churches, conven'd in Council on this Occasion, do by their Presence sufficiently declare their Consent unto and Approbation of the Ordination that is before us: And if there are any in the Assembly, that have any thing to object against our proceeding in the holy Action before us; either as to the Doctrine, Principles, Life and Conversation of the before named Mr. Stephen Parker, Mr. Ebenezer Hinsdel and Mr. Joseph Se [...]mb, they are called upon to declare the same.—
[Page 30] No Objection being made, it remains only to address my Self to You my dearly beloved Brethren and honoured in the LORD: For the LORD JESUS highly honours You before his People, in this extraordinary Call He gives You to bear his Name unto the Heathen; and therein to do the Work of Evangelists (in part at least) by his Grace in you and with you.
"DO You therefore now in the Presence of CHRIST, and before this Assembly as the LORD's Witnesses; before GOD Angels and Men, willingly and freely, with Humility and Fear, offer your Selves first unto the LORD, and then to the service of Souls; as in the Work of the Ministry in general, so in a particular manner in that Mission to which you esteem your selves called of GOD, by His special and singular Providence, to carry the Gospel among the Heathen in our Borders? And will you, by His Grace, so long as GOD continues you the Opportunity, humbly, diligently, faithfully apply your selves to this Work of the LORD, as Those that must give an Account?"
THE Missionaries in a very serious manner signifying their Submission and Consent to this very awful Promise and Vow; the Moderator told them that the Length of the Exercise, and the Coldness of the Season prevented Him from repeating to Them, on this publick Occasion, some of those Instructions which they had received from our Honourable Constituents; which as he doubted not they had often and seriously considered, so he had thought to have received from them their public Consent to the same as in the Presence of CHRIST.
THESE Instructions are as follow.‖ ‘You are to instruct the Heathen People, as GOD gives you Opportunity, in the Principles of the Christian, Reformed, Protestant Religion: And in order thereunto, not only to preach and catechize, but also to school and teach them to read the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament, and other good and pious Books*. You are also to teach them Writing and Arithmetick, and to understand and speak the English Language. You are especially to direct them how to pray, and to carry as becometh the Gospel. And when you shall judge them fit to receive the Seals of the Covenant of Grace, you are to administer the same unto them; and use your best Endeavours to confirm such in the Truths of our Holy Religion, and to engage them to persevere therein.’
IN all this† you are to act conscienciously, depending on GOD for Counsel, Strength, Furniture, and Success. Let the Glory of GOD, and the Salvation of precious Souls be your chief Motive. You are employ'd on a very important and glorious Work, and will much want the Help of the SPIRIT OF GOD therein. Remember your Blessed REDEEMER's Instruction to his Disciples, Matth. x. 16. Behold, I send you forth as Sheep in the midst of Wolves; be ye therefore wise as Serpents, and harmless of Doves.
YOU must look for Difficulties and Discouragements, and therefore study Patience, Self-denial, Humility, Forbearance; and carry with all Meekness and Love toward those with whom you have to do. Let your Deportment and Management be such, as they may see that you seek their Good; and take the most gaining Methods with them.
‘YOU are also frequently to report an Account of your Diligence and Success, to the Societies Correspondents here.’ But your great Care must be to approve your selves to GOD, who sees and tries the Heart, and to WHOM you must give an Account. And GOD make you those faithful and wise Servants who shall do it with Joy and not with Grief. In the Hope whereof we shall now immediately proceed to lay our Hands upon You, according to the Direction of the Gospel, and to pray over you in the Name of the LORD.
THE Moderator then left the Desk, and the Ministers came down to the Seat prepared for the Candidates before the Pulpit, and about Ten of the Pastors present laying on Hands, the Moderator pray'd,
GIVING Glory to the Supream and Immense JEHOVAH, the LORD OF HOSTS sitting upon a Throne high and lifted up, and his Train filling the Temple! Who walks in the midst of the golden Candlesticks, and holds the Stars in his right Hand! Whose Eyes are as a Flame of Fire, and He will make the Churches to know that He searches the Hearts and the Reins.
ADORING HIM in the Condescentions of his Grace that His Tabernacle is with Men on Earth, and that we have seen the Goings of our GOD and King in his Sanctuary! while Seraphims are covering their Faces before Him, and crying One to Another, Holy, Holy, Holy is the LORD OF HOSTS! And while We are of unclean Lips, and dwell among a People of unclean Lips.
SUPPLICATION was then made for Pardon and Cleansing thro' the Sacrifice of CHRIST, which is for the Priesthood and the Congregation; that the LORD would send [Page 32] his Angel as with a live Coal from his Altar, to touch our Hearts and Lips to take away Iniquity and purge away Sin! that if then the LORD's Voice come to us, saying, Whom shall I send? and who will go for Us▪ our purified Hearts might readily answer, Here am I, send me!
THANKSGIVING was then render'd to GOD, that He has a Church in the World, bought with his Blood, to be sanctified and cleansed with the washing of Water, by the Word! and for a glorious SAVIOUR, Head over all things to the Church, who is ascended on High and has received Gifts for Men even for the rebellious, that the LORD GOD might dwell among us! and has given Prophets, Apostles, Evangelists, Pastors and Teachers, for the Work of the Ministry and the Edifying his Body! that He has set up his Kingdom among us, shewn us his Covenant, made known to us his holy Sabbaths, and committed to us the Ministry of Reconciliation! that He has appointed and is calling from Age to Age an Order of Men to Minister in holy Things whom he sends to disciple all Nations baptizing them in the Name of the FATHER and of the SON and of the HOLY GHOST, teaching them to observe all Things whatsoever He has commanded, with whom He has promis'd to be always even to the End of the World.
MORE particularly ‘CHRIST JESUS OUR LORD was thanked that He was pleas'd to be now putting into the Ministry these his Servants who were now presenting Themselves before the LORD and his People, to give Themselves first unto the LORD, and then to the Service of Souls by his holy Will.’
PRAYERS were therefore pour'd out to GOD for Them, ‘that He would please to call them effectually by his Grace, and to reveal his SON in them, that they may preach Him among the Heathen, as well as in the Churches of the Saints, not conferring with Flesh and Blood; but accounting it a distinguishing Honour, that unto Them (the least of all Saints) this Grace should be given, to preach among the Heathen the unsearchable Riches of CHRIST.’
THAT the Grace of our LORD JESUS CHRIST might be therefore exceeding abundant to Them, with Faith and Love, to enable them to encounter and surmount the Difficulties of this Mission; that it may appear they are chosen Vessels to the LORD, to bear his Name before the Gentiles: And that GOD would shew them how great Things he will do for them and by them, if by their Ministry the Heathenish People may be Fellow-Heirs and of the same Body with us; Worshipping the true and living GOD in Spirit and in Truth, and in the Name of the One MEDIATOR between GOD and Man, the Man CHRIST JESUS, who is GOD over all, blessed for ever! [Page 33] No longer serving dumb Idols as they have been led, nor worshipping Angels and Saints that are no Mediators.
THAT a wide and effectual Door may be opened to them, by the Power of the HOLY GHOST, who once said—Separate Me Barnabas and Saul for the Work unto which I have called them: That this Manner of Entring in unto the Heathen may be granted them, to turn unto GOD from Idols, and to wait for his SON from Heaven! to turn them from Darkness to Light, and from the Power of Satan unto GOD; that they may receive the Forgiveness of Sin and an Inheritance among all them that are sanctified.
THAT the Gospel may be preached by them with the HOLY GHOST sent down from Heaven, and be the Power of GOD unto the Salvation of many Souls; as it is unto all them that believe, both to the Greeks and to the Barbarians, to the wise and to the unwise; for therein is the Righteousness of GOD revealed from Faith to Faith.
WHEREFORE according to the Direction of the HOLY WORD we humbly laid our Hands on them in the Name of the GOD of all Grace, as His devoted Servants; separating them to his special Service in the Work of the Ministry, imploring the ETERNAL SPIRIT to descend and rest on them, to enlighten them in his Truth, to spirit 'em for his Service, to be in them the Spirit of Grace and Supplication; to assist, support, comfort and succeed them in his Work: to furnish 'em abundantly with Ministerial Gifts and Graces, to direct 'em in their Holy Studies, to assist them in their publick Administrations; to inspire them with pure Aims and fervent Zeal for his Glory, and with tender Compassion to precious Souls; to make 'em able and faithful Ministers of the New Testament, wise to Salvation, and wise to win Souls; And that the Blood of HIM, who thro' the ETERNAL SPIRIT, offer'd up Himself without Spot to GOD, may purge their Consciences from dead Works, to serve the living GOD in Righteousness and Holiness before Him, all the Days of their Life.
Prayer being ended the CHARGE was given in the following Words.
HAVING pray'd over You in the Name of the LORD, commended you to His Grace, and separated you to his special Service in the Work of the Ministry; We do in His Name declare you to be Authorized Ministers of the Gospel.
AND we charge you before GOD and the LORD JESUS CHRIST, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his Appearing and Kingdom: Preach the Word; be instant in Season and out of Season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with [Page 34] all long suffering. Give attend [...]ce to Reading, to Exhortation and Doctrine. Give your selves to Prayer and to the Ministry of the Word; give your selv [...] wholly to them▪ that in so doing you may both [...] your selves and those that hear you.
HOLD the Mystery of Faith in a pure Conscience, shewing Uncorruptness, G [...]vity, Sincerity. Hold fast the Form of sound Words which you have heard, with Faith and Love that is in CHRIST JESUS. Hold fast the faithful Word, and rebuke with all Authority.
[...] the LORD with all Humility: Keep back nothing that is profitable to Souls: Shun no [...] to declare the whole Counsel of GOD. Study to shew your selves approved of GOD, Workmen that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth. Preach not your selves, but CHRIST JESUS the LORD; and your selves the Servants of Souls for JESUS sake.
ADMINISTER the Sacraments of the New Testament, as wise and good Stewards of those heavenly Mysteries. Impartially dispense the Discipline of the Gospel, putting a Difference between the Holy and pro [...]e. Watch for Souls as those that must give an Account. Seek that which is lost, bind up that which is broken, strengthen that which is sick.
WATCH in all things, endure Afflictions, do the Work of Evangelists, make full Proof of your Ministry. Be blameless, be sober, be vigilant, and of good Behaviour. Be Examples to Believers in Word, in Conversation, in Charity, in Spirit, in Faith, in Purity. Flee youthful and worldly Lusts; from which if a M [...]n purge Himself, and follow after Righteousness. Faith, Charity, Peace, with all that call on the LORD out of a pure Heart, He shall be a Vessel of Honour sanctified and meet for the Master's Use, and prepared unto every good Work.
AS Men of GOD foil [...] after Righteousness, Godliness, Faith, Love, Patience, Meekness. Them that Sin rebuke before all, that others may fear. Lay hands suddenly on no Man, neither be Partakers of other Mens Sins; keep your selves pure.
B [...] ye not ashamed of the Testimony of the LORD, nor of the Po [...] to whom you are sent; but labour in the Word and Doctrine, that they may be Evangelized by your Travels among them; and you shall be accounted worthy of double Honour. Be ye Partakers of the Afflictions of the Gospel according to the Power of GOD; for the LORD hath not given us the spirit of Fear, but of Power and of Love and of a sound Mind.
BE strong in the Grace that is in CHRIST JESUS. Endure Hardness as good Soldiers in his Cause; endure all things for the sake of the Elect, that they may obtain Salvation [Page 35] which is in Him with Eternal Glory. It is a faithful Saying, that if we be dead with Him we shall live with Him, if we suffer with Him we shall reign with Him, if we deny Him He will deny us.
INSTRUCT those that oppose themselves, if GOD peradventure will give them Repentance unto the Acknowledgement of the Truth; that they may recover themselves out of the Snare of the Devil. Continue ye in the Things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whence you have received them; and that from your Childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise unto Salvation; to perfect the Man of GOD, and throughly to furnish him unto every good Word and Work. Be ye therefore stedfast, immoveable and always abounding in the Work of the LORD, as knowing that your Labour shall not be in vain in the LORD.
WE give you Charge, each of You, in the sight of GOD who quickneth all things, and before JESUS CHRIST who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good Confession, that you observe these Things and keep this His Commandment without Spot, unrebukable, until his Appearing and Kingdom. And the LORD stand by you and strengthen you, that by you the Heathen may hear and believe! the LORD deliver you from every evil Work, from wicked and unreasonable Men, and preserve you to his heavenly Kingdom! To H [...] be Glory for Ever! Amen.
The Charge was followed with a short Prayer for the Enlargement of the Kingdom of CHRIST thro' the whole Earth: And [...] was render'd to GOD for bringing our Fathers into this Wilderness to plan [...] the Gospel here; and for Wisdom and Largeness of Heart given Them to lay those Foundations for Religion and Learning, which GOD has been pleased to own and bless unto this Day.
IN particular, Glory was given to GOD for all that our Fathers did in their Day toward Gospelizing the Heathen, and Shame was taken to our selves that no more had been done in ours.
The English and Indian Teachers, who are entred into the Labours of our Fa [...]e [...]s, were commended to the special Grace of our LORD JESUS, and the Persons n [...]w [...] in their Mission to the more distant [...] or [...]; ‘That the Hand of the LORD may be with them, and their Hands be made strong by the Mighty GOD of JACOB! that they may see of the Travel of the Soul of CHRIST in a glorious Success! that the miserable Nati [...]s may be rescu'd from the Delusions of [...] and [...], and from the Love of Strong [...]rink, the Sin that easily [...] them, and drowns 'em in Perdition.’
[Page 36] THE special Blessings of Providence were ask'd on the Honourable Society in Scotland, and on the like in England and other Places, for propagating Christian Knowledge, ‘That Grace, Mercy and Peace may be multiplied to them! and they that sow and those that reap may rejoyce together.’
THE living GOD was also bless'd for the "Dead that die in the LORD, rest from their Labours and their Works follow them; and the particular Legacy, the Foundation of the present Mission was humbly presented before the LORD, as bequeathed to His Glory, and the Salvation of Souls perishing in Ignorance of Him.
THE Direction of GOD was also ask'd for the Commissioners at all Times, and a gracious Dismission from the House of GOD to the Assembly; That both Ministers and People mighty carry away the Blessing, with Forgiveness of the Sins of Holy Duties.
THE Reverend Mr. Prince was then declared chosen by the Venerable Council to give the Right Hand of Fellowship in their Name: Who did it with the following Speech.
THE Right Hand of Fellowship.
THE HANDS OF THE PRESBYTERY having thus been laid upon the Persons now ordained to the Gospel Ministry; I am appointed by the Ecclesiastical Council here convened, to Give Them the RIGHT HAND OF FELLOWSHIP. But inasmuch as the Ordination of this kind of Officers has been very rare, and may therefore seem to be new among us; It may be requisite to prevent Objection, and convince you of the Warrantableness of these Proceedings, that I First lay before you the SCRIPTURE GROUNDS upon which we go: and if you please to allow me a little Patience; I doubt not but soon to satisfy you, both that These are proper SCRIPTURE OFFICERS, and that in this affair, we rather act in a more precise Conformity to the SCRIPT [...]RE INSTANCES both of Laying on of Hands and of Giving the Right Hand of Fellowship, than in other Ordinations.
For, if we review the State of Mankind at our Blessed SAVIOUR's Ascension; we shall see that almost the whole World were perishing in Ignorance of the Way of Salvation, and under the deluding Power of Satan, who led them captive at his destructive Pleasure. To redeem them from this wretched Ignorance and Bondage, our Blessed SAVIOUR set up his Spiritual KINGDOM among them: And this Kingdom was (1) to be extended to Those who knew Him not; and (2) to be continued among Those who were brought to know and embrace Him.
In the Propagation therefore of this Kingdom, there were these Two things to be done; that it might be thus extended and continued: (1) The Gospel must be Preached among the Ignorant, both Jews and Gentiles; that they might be turned from Darkness to Light, and from the Power of Satan to GOD, and so receive the Forgiveness of their Sins and an Inheritance among the Sanctified through Faith in CHRIST: (2) These enlightened Converts were to be gathered into Particular Congregations or Churches, for their own further Edification and Perseverance, and the more sure Transmission of this happy Kingdom to their Successors.
[Page 38] Whoever therefore are now able to lay aside their Prepossessions for the particular [...] they have assumed, and with an impartial and [...] Mind▪ search into the Now Testament [...], will [...]; That agreable to this State of the World and these [...] of Our SAVIOUR's Kingdom, there were [...] of Officers [...] in the primitive Age of Christianity: (1)The Business of SOME was to go forth and Preach the Gospel among the Ignorant, both Jews and Gentiles, to Baptize them upon their embracing it, and Gather them into Churches, to begin the Administration of the other Ordinance of the Lord's Su [...]p [...]r, and see a suitable number of stated Officers engaged in the Care of them, for their further Edification and Continuance: (2) The Business of the OTHER sort of Officers, was therefore to take the stated Charge of the Particular Churches thus gathered & settled.
Of the former sort of Officers were the APOSTLES, and EVANGELISTS: of the latter sort were the BISHOPS, that is, in the plain, ancient sense of the Word, the OVERSEERS or ELD [...]RS of particular Churches, who were to take [...] Charge of the Spiritual Part; besides the DEACONS, who were to take the Charge of the Secular.
The peculiar Character of the Twelve APOST [...]S, was to be the Eye-witnesses of a Risen JESUS,* wh [...] They had a Power to prove by working Miracles. And their great Business was to Go forth into all Nations, † to Preach, Convert, Baptize, to Gather them into Churches, and see well qualified [...] or Elders placed in them for their farther Edification, Safety and Continuance.
But inasmuch as it was impossible, that Twelve Men should be sufficient to Preach the Gospel and Gather Churches in every Town or City of every Country; therefore both the Necessity of Mankind and the Kingdom of CHRIST required, that Others duly qualified, should be added to them, in their great Business of the Propagation of the Gospel among the Nations: and for this End therefore, were employed Others, who were distinguished from them by the Name EVANG [...]LISTS.
By which Name was meant in those ancient Times, not only the Writers of the [...], to which the Modern Ages have restrain'd the common Use and Meaning of the Word. As indeed the Modern Ages have wonderfully ch [...]ng'd the ancient Sense of some other Scripture [...], in order to support their particular Constitutions, which could not be maintain'd from Scripture otherwise.
[Page 39] But by EVANGELISTS were especially meant, that sort of Spiritual officers, whose Business was the same with the general Part of the APOSTLES Office; viz. the EVANGELIZING the Jews and Gentiles; i. e. the Preaching the Gospel to them, the labouring by all proper means for their Conversion, Gathering Churches among them, and Committing the Care of those gathered Churches to well qualified Overseers or Elders.
Such an EVANGELIST was not only MARK, the Writer of the Gospel that bares his Name; who was a Preacher of the Gospel also among the Gentiles; as both the New Testament ‡ and [...] have inform'd us.
But such an EVANGELIST was PHILIP likewise: Who was at first one of the seven Deacons chosen by the Brethren of the Church at Jerusalem, to take care of the Po [...]r ‖ But upon that Church being dispersed by the Persecution at the Death of Stephen; there being no further occasion for his attending his Deacon's Office, and being full of the Holy Ghost and duly qualified; He becomes an EVANGELIST: and such a one He is expresly called, Acts xxi. [...].
Such EVANGELISTS were great NUMBERS OF OTHERS of that Church also; which were by the same Persecution dispersed abroad: as we read in Act, viii. 1. At that time there was a great Persecution against the Church which was at Jerusalem: and they were all Scattered abroad, throughout the Regions of Judea and Samaria, except the APOSTLES: ver. 4. Therefore They that were Scattered abroad, went [...] where Preaching the Word: and ver. 5. Then PHILIP went down to the City of Samaria, and Preached CHRIST unto them. For that this was not Philip of the twelve Apostles, but the same that was before the Dispersion, a Deacon, is plain, by comparing the vi, viii, & xxi. Chapters of the Acts together.
Such an EVANGELIST was TIMOTHY: as appears most plainly from a great Number of Scripture Passages concerning Him; wherein we find that He went [...]: and Preached the Gospel both to the Ephesians and Colossi [...]ns in ASIA, and to the Thessalonians and [...] in EUROPE. And in the second Epistle to Him, [...]he Apostle Paul exhorts Him, To PREACH THE WORD, to be instant in Season, out of Season, to Reprove, Rebuke, Exhort with all Long suffering and Doctrine: Chap. iv. 2. and in ver. 5. [Page 40] To Watch in all things, to DO THE WORK OF AN EVANGELIST, and ( [...]) Fulfil his Ministry.
Such an EVANGELIST was TITUS: as fully appears from 2 Cor. viii. 6, 23. Gal. ii. 3. 2 Tim. iv. 10. and from the Epistle of the same Apostle to Him, compared together.
In short, such EVANGELISTS were BARNABAS and SILAS, APOLLOS and SYLVANUS; as appears from so many Scriptures as the Time will not allow me to mention: and 'tis likely MANY OTHERS named in the New Testament, whom the Apostle PAUL calls HIS FELLOW-LABOURERS—had we Leisure to enquire into their History.
Agreeable to this, the same Apostle, speaking of our Blessed SAVIOUR, says Eph. iv. 8,—12. When He ascended up on High, He led Captivity Captive, and gave Gifts to Men: and he gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some EVANGELISTS, and some Pastors and Teachers; for the Perfecting of the Saints, (i. e. the compleating their NUMBER*) for the Work of the Ministry, for the Edifying of the Body of CHRIST.
And agreeable to all this also, Eusebius not only calls MARK,† but also THADDAEUS,‡ an EVANGELIST; because they Preached the Gospel among the Heathen. Yea, in the same Places, He calls them APOSTLES; for which He had given the Reason in Book I. Chap. 12. Where He tells us, that, MANY besides the twelve APOSTLES, were call'd APOSTLES ( [...]) by way of IMITATION, i. e. Because, like Apostles. They went about, Preaching the Gospel to diverse People, Converting them to the Faith of CHRIST, and Gathering them into Churches.
In Book II. Chap. 3. He has these remarkable Passages— Thus by the Co-operation of the Divine Power, the comfortable Word of GOD, like the Beams of the Sun, on a sudden enlightened the whole World: and presently agreeable to the Divine Scriptures, the Sound of the Heavenly EVANGELISTS and APOSTLES went out into all Lands, and their Words to the Ends of the Earth: and in a short time, throughout ALL CITIES and VILLAGES, there were CHURCHES gathered; which like a Threshing Floor fill'd with Corn, were throng'd with infinite Multitudes. And in Book III. Chap. 3 [...]. He says, that, MANY OTHERS were also famous at that Time, having obtain'd the first Place among the SUCCESSORS of the [Page 41] APOSTLES—Promoting greatly the Doctrine of the Gospel, and Scattering the Salutary Seed of the Kingdom of Heaven, at large over the whole World—Travelling abroad they perform'd the Work of EVANGELISTS to those who as yet had not heard the Word of Faith—And these Persons having only laid the Foundation of Faith in remote and barbarous Places, and CONSTITUTED other PASTORS, committed to them the Culture of those they had ( [...]) lately † introduc'd to the Faith, departed again to other Regions and Nations —And in the close of the Chapter— It being impossible to recount by name, all Those, who in the First SUCCESSION of the APOSTLES, were PASTORS or EVANGELISTS in the Churches throughout the World.
By PASTORS He plainly means the stated Overseers or Elders of the Churches gathered: and by EVANGELISTS, Those who First Evangeliz'd and gathered them into Churches.
Not but that the One sort of Officers might be changed into the Other, as the Occasion of the Kingdom of CHRIST required. For the KINGDOM of CHRIST could not be made for these Officers, but They for this KINGDOM: and therefore just according to the Demands of this Kingdom, They might be set up, remov'd, or continued in one Place or other, or reciprocally change their Offices. Thus, upon the Dispersion of particular Churches, or other weighty Occasions, whereby the Kingdom of CHRIST might be the more advanced, the stated Pastors of those Churches might become Evangelists, to Preach the Gospel and gather Churches in other Places. And so, the Evangelists, thro' Age, Infirmity, or the weighty Occasions of particular Churches, might become the stated Pastors of one of the Churches They had Gathered, or of any other.
From all these Premises, we may fairly draw these three CORROLARIES—
(1) That 'tis therefore a great Mistake, which the Generality of Learned Men have inadvertently fallen into; in supposing that EVANGELISTS, or Ministers to Preach the Gospel [...] gather Churches among the Heathen, were an extraordinary sort of Officers, peculiar to the Primitive Ages.
[Page 42] They were extraordinary Men indeed in those ancient Times, and had extraordinary Gifts: and so had the DEACONS also, as those Times required. But as meer Evangelists, they were no otherwise extraordinary than the Occasions of their Office. That is, so long as there are Heathens to be Evangelized, to be Converted to the Christian Faith, to be Baptiz'd and gathered into Churches; so long do both the Kingdom of CHRIST and Necessities of Men require the Office, as well as in the primitive Times; and so long do they call aloud for Persons duly qualified and spirited to be engaged in it, until all the Nations are Converted and gathered into Churches: and then indeed the End of their Office ceasing, the Office will therefore fail, and no other Spiritual Officers remain but the Stated Pastors of particular Churches.
And the contrary narrow Conception, laying aside those Evangelical Officers and confining the Christian Ministry to the Pastors or Elders of Particular Churches, has not only a plain natural Tendency to hinder; but has also doubtless been a principal Mean of hindering the Propagation of the Gospel thro' the World. To this it seems in a great measure owing, that the Religion of CHRIST has not made a much farther Progress in the Eastern Hemisphere, than it had about 1400 Years ago, in the Days of CONSTANTINE the Great. Whereas had this Order of Ministers, from those ancient Times been constantly kept up and emitted among the Heathen Nations; by the common Blessing of Heaven, it seems to be likely, that all the Ends of the Earth, in a far more extensive Sense than Eusebius is to be taken, had long before now been Evangeliz'd, and happily seen the Salvation of GOD.
Nor can I imagine, that the Reformed and famous Churches, either of FRANCE or SCOTLAND ever intended to militate this sort of Officers thus described: For tho' They discountenance a Vagous Ministry *; I presume they only mean in those Parts of the World, where the People are Christianized and Churches gathered.
(2) From hence we likewise plainly see, that EVANGELISTS, or Preachers of the Gospel and Gatherers of Churches among the Heathen, are much more properly and strictly, the SUCCESSORS of the APOSTLES, than the stated Bishops or Elders of particular Churches: the Office of the former much more resembling that of the APOSTLES, than the Office of the latter.
[Page 43] (3) and lastly, These EVANGELISTS thus Preaching among the Heathen, Converting and Baptizing them, Gathering them into Churches and then Constituting stated Bishops or Elders over them; They, the Evangelists, cannot therefore possibly be an Inferiour Order of Officers to those Stated Bishops or Elders whom▪ They thus set over the Churches▪ They have converted and gathered. Tho' their Ordaining such Bishops or Elders will on the other hand no more infer a Superiority in the Evangelists; than one Stated Bishop of a Church ordaining another Bishop, will infer a Superiority in the Ordainer.
And for your farther Satisfaction in the strict Propriety of Laying our Hands upon, and Giving the Right Hand of Fellowship to such sort of Officers as have been now ordained; I shall only observe these Two things—
(1) That they were such sort of Officers, upon whom HANDS WERE LAID in the primitive Times, when they were separated to this peculiar Service.
Thus we read of BARNABAS an EVANGELIST, as well as of PAUL an APOSTLE, in Acts xiii. 1,—3. Now there were in the Church that was at Antioch, certain Prophets and Teachers—as they ministred to the LORD, and fasted, the HOLY GHOST said, SEPARATE me BARNABAS and SAUL for the Work whereto I have called them: and when they had fasted and prayed, and LAID THEIR HANDS on them, they sent them away. And so were the Hands of the Presbytery laid on TIMOTHY, another EVANGELIST, when the Gift of Preaching the Gospel, which was at first among the Jews or Heathen, was communicated to Him. 1 Tim. iv. 14.
(2) That they were also such sort of Officers, to whom the Apostles at Jerusalem gave the RIGHT HAND OF FELLOWSHIP; when they were going to Preach among the Heathen.
So the Apostle Paul himself assures us, in Gal. iii. 9. And when JAMES, CEPHAS and JOHN, who seemed to be PILLARS, perceived the Grace that was given to ME; they gave to ME and BARNABAS the RIGHT HAND OF FELLOWSHIP; that WE should go to the HEATHEN &c.
And thus we see that the Scripture Instances both of Imposition of Hands and Giving the Right Hand of Fellowship, are firstly in Favour of Such sort of Officers; and are by Inference or Imitation only, applied to Others.
[Page 44] But how extreamly agreable is the last mention'd primitive INSTANCE, to the Case before us!
For besides, that those Five Ministers were then at JERUSALEM, the Seat of the principal Christian Church in that Age and Part of the World; from whence were Ministers sent continually to Preach the Gospel and gather Churches in all the Countries round about:—What I would chiefly observe is—(1) That this was done upon their Perceiving the GRACE of GOD given to Paul as well as Barnabas—i. e. not only the Ministerial Gifts and Graces of the HOLY SPIRIT, but also their evident Call of GOD to engage in this Office, and their unquestionable Investiture therein. (2) That this was done at the [...]arting of these Christian Ministers; viz. Paul and Barnabas, to [...] ou [...] of Jerusalem among the GENTILES, while the [...] Ministers were to continue to Preach among the Jews. (3) That tho' they were all invested equally with the Ministerial Office; yet now at their Parting, Those who were Prior in the Ministry and seem'd to be PILLARS; i. e. were so conspicuous [...] the Christian Church, as they were every where known and own'd as Ministers of CHRIST, and were also to remain among the Jews, if not in or near Jerusalem—were tho't most proper to Give the Right Hand of Fellowship to Those who were going to a greater Distance and among another People.
And from these Observables we may now easily collect the singular INTENTION of these wise and inspired Ministers in this Significant Action. For no doubt They meant thereby—(1) To testify their Approbation of them as true Ministers of CHRIST, both duly qualified for this Sacred Office, rightly called to it, and invested and employed in it; that all might own them as such, and none dispute their Ministerial Power. (2) To signify, that tho' they were now to Part; yet They were still United in the most [...] Affection and in the same Design, embarqued in the same Holy Cause of CHRIST, and were to Propagate the same pure Religion in different Places. (3) To signify their continued Con [...]n for each other, with their hearty Readiness and Resolution to assist each other, both by constant Prayers, Advices and Endeavours, as there might be Occasion. (4) and lastly, to exp [...] therewith, their earnest Recommendation of Them to the Providence and Grace of GOD, that they might be greatly assisted and prospered in their Ministry.
[Page 45] ‘In Imitation of these agreable EXAMPLES, in the midst of this Metropolis, at the Desire and in the Name of the Pastors and Deleg [...]s of the Churches here Convened, and in the Sight of this great Assembly,’
I Do therefore,
Dear and Reverend Brethren!
At your Parting from us, to carry the Gospel among the Heathen, now Give you heartily the RIGHT HAND OF FELLOWSHIP.—And it is to Signify—Our Approbation of You as true Ministers of CHRIST; furnished for this Sacred Office, rightly called to it, and fully invested in all the Powers and Authorities of it, wherever the Affairs of His Kingdom may call you, and now especially for the Propagation of it among the Heathen:—That we account you still to be United with us in the same General and great Design and Interest of our common LORD; to carry on that happy Kingdom in the World, which consisteth not in carnal Ordinances impos'd on Men, but in Righteousness and Peace and the Joy of the HOLY GHOST:—That we shall be continually concerned for You, mindful of You in Prayer, and be ready to assist You as Occasion requires.—And finally, We commend You to the GRACE of our LORD JESUS CHRIST: That He would fill You with His SPIRIT: Inspire You with Light and Zeal; supply you with Faith and Patience, Courage, Wisdom, Self-Denial, Meekness, and Humility; Touch You with the most tender and condescending Pity for those wretched Natives; Excite You to Your Duty, guide You in Your Work, defend You from every Evil, suppor [...] and comfort You in all your Trials; and prosper Your Endeavours for the Advancement of the Kingdom of our Blessed LORD, in the Salvation of many Sinners perishing in Ignorance and Wickedness.
May Your Eyes be always to Him, Your Dependance always on Him, and His mighty Grace be sufficient for You. May You from Him give Light to them that sit in Darkness and in the Regions of the Shadow of Death, to guide their Feet into the Way of Eternal Peace and Blessedness: May You faithfully discharge the Office of the EVANGELISTS of CHRIST among them: and from Preaching the Glad Tydings of Salvation to them on Earth, [Page 46] may You at length ascend the World above, and carry the News of their Conversion thither; to highten the Joy of the Heavenly Hosts, and increase the Praise of our Great REDEEMER. Amen.
N. B. The Right Hand of Fellowship being thus Given; the Sixty-seventh Psalm was Sung, and the Rev. Moderator dismiss'd the Assembly with the usual Blessing.
CORRIGENDA.
PAge 38. in the Margin; for xxxviii, read xxviii. p. 39. line 21. for which, r. who. p. 40. l. 2. r. make full Proof of, or Fulfil his Ministry▪ l. 25. r. like the Apostles,