Mr. Pemberton's SERMON AT THE ORDINATION OF Mr. David Brainerd. WITH A NARRATIVE relating to the Indian Affairs, &c.
A SERMON Preach'd In NEW-ARK, June 12, 1744. AT THE ORDINATION OF Mr. David Brainerd, A MISSIONARY among the Indians Upon the Borders of the Provinces of NEW-YORK, NEW-JERSEY, and PENNSYLVANIA.
By E. PEMBERTON, A. M. Pastor of the Presbyterian Church in the City of New-York.
WITH An APPENDIX, touching the Indian Affairs.
BOSTON: Printed by ROGERS and FOWLE, for J. PEMBERTON. 1744.
To the Right Honourable The MARQUIS of LOTHIAN, President, And the rest of the Members of the incorporated SOCIETY in SCOTLAND For propagating Christian Knowledge.
AUTHORISED by your Commission, we have attempted to send the Gospel to the infidel Indian Natives, that border upon the Provinces of New-York, New-Jersey, and Pennsylvania: And by Supplies received from your Honourable Society, have been enabled to support that charitable Undertaking.
THE Ordination of one of your Missionaries to this great Work, has given us an Opportunity to present the following Sermon and Narratives to your candid Acceptance.
[Page ii]WHILE the Princes of the Earth are sending their Navies to the remotest Regions, to protect the Commerce and increase the Riches of their respective Dominions; You are engaged in the nobler Design of enlarging the Kingdom of the Great REDEEMER, and bringing the most distant Nations to a Subjection to his gracious Sceptre. Certainly nothing can be more worthy the christian Character, or more agreeable to generous and benevolent Minds, than to be in any Measure instrumental to enlighten those with the Doctrine of Salvation, who for many Ages have dwelt in the Darkness of Heathenism; and to turn them from the idolatrous Worship of the Host of Heaven, and the Spirits of their departed Heroes,—to the Service of the LIVING GOD, who made Heaven and Earth.
[Page iii]OTHER Designs may make a louder Noise in the World, and appear with greater Splendor in the Opinion of mistaken Mortals: But this will be approved by the unerring Judgment of Heaven, and shine bright in the Records of Eternity; when many of the celebrated Exploits, that now receive the universal Applause of Mankind, will be buried in perpetual Oblivion.
MANY are the Difficulties, Self-denials, and Discouragements, which your Missionaries must pass thro', in their Endeavours to propagate the Gospel among those who renounce the Society of the civilized World, are sunk into the most degenerate State of human Nature, and have been enured from their Infancy to the most barbarous Practices. It is with Pleasure we behold them animated with so noble a Zeal for the [Page iv] Glory of GOD, so compassionate a Regard for the Happiness of Men,— that they are willing to spend and be spent, if they may be the Instruments of spreading the glad Tidings of Salvation among the uninstructed Pagans, who have hitherto lived without GOD in the World, and been benighted in the Regions of Darkness and the Shadow of Death.
THAT this, and all other your pious and benevolent Designs for enlarging the Kingdom of CHRIST, and promoting the Welfare of immortal Souls, may be attended with the divine Blessing, and crowned with increasing Success, 'till the whole Earth be filled with the Glory of the LORD,—is the unfeigned Desire, and shall be the daily Prayer of
AN Ordination-SERMON.
And the Lord said unto the Servant, Go out into the high-ways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.
GOD erected this visible world as a monument of his Glory,— a theatre for the display of his adorable perfections.—The Heavens proclaim his wisdom and power in shining characters, and the whole Earth is full of his goodness. Man was in his original creation excellently fitted for the service of GOD, and for perfect happiness in the enjoyment of the divine favour.
BUT Sin has disturbed the order of nature, defaced the beauty of the creation, and involved Man, the Lord of this lower world, in the most disconsolate circumstances of guilt and misery.
THE all-seeing eye of GOD beheld our deplorable state; infinite pity touched the heart of the Father of mercies; and infinite wisdom laid the plan of our recovery. The Majesty of heaven did not see meet to suffer the Enemy of mankind, eternally to triumph in his success; nor leave his favourite workmanship, irrecoverably to perish in the ruins of the Apostacy. By a method, which at once astonishes and delights the sublimest spirits above, he opened a way [Page 2] for the display of his mercy, without any violation of the sacred claims of his justice; in which, the honour of the Law is vindicated, and the guilty Offender acquitted; Sin is condemned, and the Sinner eternally saved. To accomplish this blessed design, the beloved SON OF GOD assumed the nature of man,— in our nature died a spotless sacrifice for sin,— by the atoning virtue of his blood he made reconciliation for iniquity, — and by his perfect obedience to the law of GOD, brought in everlasting righteousness.
HAVING finished his work upon Earth, before he ascended to his heavenly Father, he commissioned the ministers of his kingdom, to preach the gospel to every creature. He sent them forth to make the most extensive offers of salvation to rebellious sinners, and by all the methods of holy violence to compel them to come in, and accept the invitations of his grace. — We have a lively representation of this in the Parable, in which our text is contained.
THE evident design of which is, under the figure of a Marriage-Supper, to set forth the plentiful provision, which is made in our LORD JESUS CHRIST for the reception of his People, and the freedom and riches of divine grace, which invites the most unworthy and miserable Sinners, to partake of this sacred Entertainment. The first invited Guests were the Jews, the favourite people of GOD, who were heirs of divine love, while the rest of the world were Aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise: But these through the power of prevailing prejudice, and the influence of carnal affections, obstinately rejected the invitation, and were therefore finally excluded from these invaluable blessings.
BUT it was not the design of infinite wisdom, that these costly preparations should be lost, and the table he had spread, remain unfurnished with Guests. Therefore he sent forth his Servant into the streets and lanes of the city, and commanded him to bring in the poor, the maimed, the halt, and the blind,—i, e. the most necessitous and miserable of mankind;—yea, to go out into the high-ways and hedges, to the wretched and perishing Gentiles, and not only invite, [Page 3] but even compel them to come in, that his house might be filled.
The words of the Text represent to us,
I. THE melancholy state of the Gentile world. They are described as in the high-ways and hedges, in the most perishing and helpless condition.
II. THE compassionate care, which the Blessed Redeemer takes of them in these their deplorable circumstances. He sends out his Servants to them, to invite them to partake of the entertainments of his house.
III. THE duty of the Ministers of the Gospel, to compel them to come in, and accept of his gracious invitation.
These I shall consider in their order, and then apply them to the present occasion.
FIRST PART.
I AM to consider the melancholy state of the Heathen world, while in the darkness of nature, and destitute of divine revelation. — It is easy to harangue upon the excellency and advantage of the light of nature. 'Tis agreeable to the pride of mankind, to exalt the powers of human reason, and pronounce it a sufficient guide to eternal happiness. But let us enquire into the records of Antiquity, let us consult the experience of all ages; and we shall find that those who had no guide but the light of nature, no instructor but unassisted reason, have wandered in perpetual uncertainty, darkness, and error. Or let us take a view of the present state of those Countries that have not been illuminated by the Gospel; and we shall see, that notwithstanding the improvements of near six thousand years, they remain to this day covered with the grossest darkness, and abandoned to the most immoral and vitious practices.
[Page 4]The beauty and good order, every where discovered in the visible frame of nature, evidences beyond all reasonable dispute, the existence of an infinite and almighty Cause, who first gave being to the Universe, and still preserves it by his powerful providence. Says the Apostle to the Gentiles, (Rom. 1.20.) The invisible Things of GOD, from the creation of the world, are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal Power and Godhead. And yet many, even among the Philosophers of the Gentile nations, impiously denied the eternal Deity, from whose hands they received their existence; and blasphemed his infinite perfections, when surrounded with the clearest demonstrations of his power and goodness.—Those who acknowledged a Deity, entertained the most unworthy conceptions of his nature and attributes, and worshiped the Creature, in the place of the Creator, who is GOD blessed for ever. — Not only the illustrious heroes of Antiquity, and the public Benefactors of Mankind, but even the most despicable beings in the order of nature, were enrolled in the catalogue of their gods, and became the object of their impious adoration. They changed the Glory of the incorruptible God, into an image made like to corruptible man, to birds and four-footed beasts, and creeping things, Rom. 1.23.
A FEW of the sublimest genius's of ROME and ATHENS, had some faint discoveries of the spiritual nature of the human Soul, and formed some probable conjectures, that man was designed for a future state of existence. When they considered the extensive Capacities of the humane mind, and the deep impressions of futurity, engraven in every Breast; they could not but infer, that the Soul was immortal, and at death would be translated to some new and unknown state. When they saw the Virtuous oppressed with various and successive Calamities; and the vilest of men triumphing in prosperity and pleasure; they entertained distant hopes, that in a future revolution, these seeming inequalities would be rectified, these inconsistencies removed,—the Righteous distinguishingly rewarded, and the Wicked remarkably punished.—But after all their inquiries [Page 5] upon this important subject, they attained no higher, than some probable conjectures, some uncertain expectations. — And when they came to describe the nature and situation of these invisible regions of happiness or misery, they made the wildest guesses, and run into the most absurd and vain imaginations. The Heaven they contrived for the entertainment of the virtuous, was made up of sensual pleasures, beneath the dignity of human nature, and inconsistent with perfect felicity: The Hell they described for the punishment of the vitious, consisted in ridiculous terrors, unworthy the belief of a rational and religious Creature.
THEIR practices were equally corrupt with their principles. As the most extravagant errors were received among the established articles of their faith, so the most infamous vices obtained in their practice, and were indulged not only with impunity, but authorised by the sanction of their laws. They stupidly erected altars to idols of wood and stone; paid divine honours to those, who in their lives had been the greatest monsters of lust and cruelty; yea, offered up their Sons and Daughters as sacrifices to Devils. The principles of honour, the restraints of shame, the precepts of their Philosophers were all too weak, to keep their corruptions within any tolerable bounds. The wickedness of their hearts broke through every inclosure, and deluged the Earth with rapine and violence, blood and slaughter, and all manner of brutish and detestable impurities.—It is hardly possible to read the melancholy description of the principles and manners of the heathen world, given us by St. Paul, without horror and surprise. To think, that man once the friend of GOD, and the Lord of this lower world, should thus deny the GOD that made him, and bow down to dumb idols; should thus by lust and intemperance, degrade himself into the character of the Beast, which hath no understanding; and by pride, malice, and revenge, transform himself into the very image of the Devil, who was a murderer from the beginning.
THIS was the state of the gentile nations, when the light of the Gospel appeared, to scatter the darkness that overspread [Page 6] the face of the Earth. And this has been the case, so far as has yet appeared, of all the nations ever since, upon whom the SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS has not arose with healing in his wings. Every new-discovered Country opens a new scene of astonishing ignorance and barbarity; and gives us fresh evidence of the universal corruption of human nature.
SECOND PART.
I PROCEED now to consider the compassionate Care and Kindness of our Blessed REDEEMER towards mankind, in these their deplorable circumstances. He sends out his Servants, to invite them to come in, and accept the entertainments of his house.
GOD might have left his guilty creatures, to have eternally suffered the dismal effects of their apostacy, without the least imputation of injustice, or violence of his infinite perfections. The fall was the consequence of man's criminal choice, and attended with the highest aggravations. —The Angels that sinned, were made examples of GOD's righteous severity, and are reserved in chains of guilt to the Judgment of the great day. Mercy, that tender, attribute of the divine nature, did not interpose in their behalf, to suspend the execution of their sentence, or avert GOD's threatned displeasure: their punishment is, unalterably decreed, their Judgment is irreversible; they are the awful monuments of revenging wrath, and are condemned to blackness of darkness for ever.— Now Justice might have shewn the same inflexible severity to rebellious man, and have left the universal progeny of Adam, to perish in their guilt and misery. It was unmerited mercy, that distinguished the human race, in providing a Saviour for us; and the most signal compassion that revealed the counsels of heaven for our recovery.
BUT though Justice did not oblige the divine Being to provide for our relief, yet the Goodness of the indulgent Father of the universe inclined him to shew pity to his guilty Creatures, who fell from their innocence, through the subtilty and malice of seducing and apostate Spirits. [Page 7] It was agreeable to the divine wisdom, to disappoint the devices of Satan, the enemy of GOD and Goodness, and recover the creatures he had made, from their subjection to the powers of darkness.
HE therefore gave early discoveries of his designs of mercy to our first Parents, and immediately upon the apostacy opened a door of hope for their recovery. He revealed a SAVIOUR to the antient Patriarchs, under dark types, and by distant promises; made clearer declarations of his will, as the appointed time drew near, for the accomplishment of the promises, and the manifestation of the Son of GOD in human flesh.— And when the fulness of time was come, GOD sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.
THIS divine and illustrious Person left the bosom of his Father, that he might put on the Character of a servant; — descended from the glories of heaven, that he might dwell on this inferior earth;— was made under the law, that he might fulfill all righteousness;— submitted to the infirmities of human nature, to the sorrows and sufferings of an afflicted life, and to the agonies of a painful ignominious death on a cross, that he might destroy the power of sin, abolish the empire of death, and purchase immortality and glory for perishing Man.
WHILE our LORD JESUS resided in this lower world, he preached the glad tidings of salvation, and published the kingdom of GOD; confirming his doctrine by numerous and undoubted miracles, and recommending his instructions by the charms of a spotless life and conversation. He sent forth his Apostles to pursue the same gracious design of gospellising the people, and furnished them with sufficient powers to proselyte the nations to the faith. He also appointed a standing ministry, to carry on a treaty of peace with rebellious [...]ners, in the successive ages of the Church; to continue, till the number of the redeeem'd is completed, and the whole election of grace placed in circumstances of spotless purity and perfect happiness.
[Page 8]THESE ministers are styled the Servants of CHRIST, by way of eminence: They are in a peculiar manner devoted to the Service of their divine master; from him they receive their commission; by him they are appointed to represent his person, preside in his worship, and teach the laws of his Kingdom.— To assume this character without being divinely called, and regularly introduced into this sacred office, is a bold invasion of CHRIST's royal authority, and an open violation of that order, which he has established in his Church.— These not only derive their mission from CHRIST, but it is his doctrine they are to preach, and not the inventions of their own brain:—it is his glory they are to promote, and not their own interest or honor:—their business is not to propagate the designs of a party, but the common salvation, and to beseech all, in CHRIST's name, to be reconciled unto GOD.
THE Apostles, the primitive heralds of the everlasting Gospel, were sent to make the first Tender of salvation to the lost sheep of the house of ISRAEL; they were commanded to begin at JERUSALEM, the centre of the Jewish Commonwealth: But when the Jews obstinately persisted in their impenitence and unbelief, they were commissioned to preach the gospel to every Creature under heaven:— The sinners of the Gentiles were invited to come in, and accept of the offers of salvation.
THE Prophets pointed out a Messiah that was to come, and proclaimed the joyful approach of a Redeemer, at the time appointed in the sovereign counsels of heaven. The ministers of the Gospel now are sent to declare, that the prophecies are accomplished, the promise fulfilled, justice satisfied, salvation purchased; and all that will come in, shall receive the blessings of the gospel. They are not only freely to invite Sinners, of all orders and degrees, of all ages and nations; but to assure them, that all things are now ready, and to use the most powerful and persuasive methods, that they may engage them to comply with the heavenly Call.— Which brings me to the third thing proposed.
THIRD PART.
I AM next to shew, that it is the great duty of the Ministers of the gospel to compel sinners to come in, and accept of the blessings of the Gospel.— This is so plainly contained in my text, that I shall not multiply arguments to confirm it. My only business shall be to explain the nature of this compulsion, or shew in what manner sinners are to be compelled to come in to the Christian Church.— And sure I am, I must answer, negatively, not by the deceitful methods of fraud and disguise, — nor the inhuman practices of persecution and violence. This text indeed has often been alledged by the persecuting bigots of all ages, and apply'd to support the cause of religious tyranny; to the infinite scandal of the christian name, and the unspeakable detriment of the christian interest. — By this means the Enemies of our most holy faith have been strengthen'd in their infidelity, the weak have been turned aside from the truth, as it is in JESUS, and the peaceable kingdom of the Messiah transformed into a field of blood,—a scene of hellish and horrid cruelties. If this were the compulsion recommended in the gospel, then absolute unrelenting tyrants would be the proper and most infallible teachers; then racks and tortures would be the genuine and most successful method of propagating the faith. But surely every thing of this kind, every violent and driving measure, is in direct opposition to the precepts and example of our blessed Saviour, and contrary to the very genius of his gospel, — which proclaims, * Glory to GOD in the highest, on earth peace, good-will towards men
THE Princes of this world exercise a temporal dominion over mankind, and by fines levied on their estates and punishments inflicted upon their bodies, force men to an outward subjection to their authority and government.— But the kingdom of our Lord is of a spiritual [Page 10] nature: He erects his empire in the hearts of men, and reigns ever a willing people in the day of his power. External violence may necessitate men to an external profession of the truth, and procure a dissembled compliance with the institutions of CHRIST; but can never enlighten the darkness of the mind, conquer the rebellion of the will, nor sanctify and save the soul. It may transfigure men into accomplish'd hypocrites; but will never convert them into real saints.
THE Gospel was originally propagated by the powerful preaching of CHRIST and his Apostles, by the astonishing miracles which they wrought in confirmation of their doctrine, and the exemplary lives by which they adorned their profession and character. Instead of propagating their religion by the destructive methods of fire and sword, they submitted to the rage and cruelty of a malignant world with surprising patience, and sacrificed their very lives in the cause of GOD, without any intemperate discoveries of anger and resentment:— instead of calling for fire from heaven to destroy their opposers, they compassionated their ignorance, instructed them with meekness, counsel'd and exhorted them with all long-suffering and doctrine, and even spent their dying breath in praying for their conviction and conversion, that they might be saved in the day of the LORD JESUS.
Now in imitation of these primitive Doctors of the christian church, these wise and successful preachers of the Gospel, it is the duty of the ministers of the present day, to use the same methods of compassion and friendly violence. A disinterested zeal for the glory of God, a stedfast adherence to the truth, and unshaken fidelity in our Master's cause, with universal benevolence to mankind, must constantly animate our public discourses, and be conspicuous in our private conversation and behaviour. — We must diligently indeavour to convince the understandings, engage the affections, and direct the practice of our hearers.—Upon this head, it may not be amiss to descend to a few particulars.
[Page 11]1. MINISTERS are to compel sinners to come in, by setting before them their guilty and perishing condition by nature.— Sinners are naturally fond of carnal ease and security; they are delighted with their pleasant and profitable sins; they even drink in iniquity like water, with great greediness, with insatiable thirst, and incessant gratification, but without fear or remorse. Upon this account, there is the highest necessity, to sound an alarm in their ears, that they may be awaken'd, to see and consider their dangerous state; or else they will never be excited to flee from the wrath to come. The secure Sinner is insensible of this want of a Saviour:— the whole need not a Physician, but they that are sick.
To this end, the ministers of the gospel are to set the terrors of the LORD in array against the sinner, and let him hear the thunder of divine curses, that utter their voice against the unbelieving. They are to represent in the clearest light, and with the most convincing evidence, the evil of sin, and the danger it exposes to; that wrath from heaven is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men †; that the flaming sword of incensed justice is unsheathed, and the arm of the Almighty ready to destroy such as are going on still in their trespasses, impenitent and secure.— They are not only thus to shew 'em their danger; but to set before them at the same time their wretched and helpless circumstances:—that there's no human eye can successfully pity them, nor any created arm can bring them effectual deliverance;— that, while in a state of unregenerate nature, they are destitute of strength to perform any acceptable service to the blessed GOD, and unable to make any adequate satisfaction to his offended Justice; — that indeed they can neither avoid the divine displeasure, nor endure the punishment that is due to their crimes.— Thus by a faithful application of the law and its threatnings, we should endeavour, by GOD's blessing, to make way for the reception [Page 12] of the gospel and its promises.— This was the wise method observed by our blessed Saviour, the first preacher of the gospel; and by the Apostles, his inspired successors. So John the baptist, who served as the morning star, to usher in the appearance of the Sun of righteousness, did thus prepare the way of the LORD, by enlightning the minds of men, in the knowledge of their guilt and misery, and inciting them to flee from the damnation of hell. — The three thousand that were converted to the faith at one sermon, in the infancy of the christian church, were first awakened with a sense of their aggravated guilt, in crucifying the LORD of Glory, and brought in agony and distress to cry out, * Men and brethren, what shall we do?
THIS method, I confess, is disagreeable to the sentiments and inclinations of a secure world; and may expose us to the reproach of those that are at ease in Zion: but is agreeable the dictates of an enlightned mind, conformable to the plan laid down in the sacred Scriptures, and has in all ages approved itself the most successful method of promoting the interests of real and vital religion.
2. THEY are to compel sinners to come in, by a lively representation of the power and grace of our almighty Redeemer.—Not all the thunder and terror of curses from mount Ebal, not all the tremendous wrath revealed from heaven against the ungodly, not all the anguish and horror of a wounded spirit in an awaken'd sinner, are able to produce an unfeigned and effectual compliance with the gospel-terms of mercy. The ministry of the Law can only give the knowledge of sin, rouse the sinner's conscience, and alarm his fears: it is the dispensation of Grace, that sanctifies and saves the soul. Nor is the former needful but in order to the latter. So much conviction, as gives us a sight of our sin and misery, as inclines us to flee from the [Page 13] wrath to come, and disposes us to submit to the gospel-method of salvation by grace through faith, by sovereign mercy through the mediator, so much is necessary; and more is neither requisite, nor useful, or desirable.
IT is not the office of preachers to be perpetually employed in the language of terror, or exhaust their strength and zeal in awakening and distressing subjects. No, but as it is their distinguishing character, that they are ministers of the gospel, so it is their peculiar business to preach the unsearchable riches of CHRIST. The Person and offices and love of the great Redeemer, the merits of his obedience and purchases of his cross, the victories of his resurrection, the triumphs of his ascension, and prevalence of his intercession, the power of his Spirit, greatness of his salvation, freeness of his grace, &c. These are to be the chosen and delightful subjects of their discourses. — They are to represent him as one —Who has completely answered the demands of the law, rendered the Deity propitious to the sinner, and upon this account is able eternally to save us from the vengeance of an offended GOD; — Who is cloathed with almighty power, to subdue the inveterate habits of sin, sanctify our polluted nature, and restore us to spiritual health and purity;— Who is LORD OF THE VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE WORLDS, who knows how to defeat the most artful devices of Satan, and will finally render his people victorious over their most malicious and implacable adversaries;— Who having made reconciliation for iniquity upon the cross, is pleading the merits of his blood in heaven, and powerfully interceeding for all suitable blessings in behalf of his people; — Who is there exalted as a prince and a Saviour to give repentance and remission of sins †, and is able to save unto the uttermost all those that come to GOD in and thro him; *— in fine, Who from his illustrious throne in glory stoops to [Page 14] look down with pity upon guilty and perishing sinners, stretches forth the sceptre of grace, and opens the everlasting arms of his mercy to receive them.— These peculiar doctrines of the gospel they are frequently to teach, upon these they are to dwell with constant pleasure, that sinners may be perswaded to hearken to the inviting voice of divine love, and put their trust in this almighty and compassionate Saviour. — In order to which,
3. THEY are to shew sinners the mighty encouragement, that the gospel gives them to accept of CHRIST, and Salvation through his merits and righteousness.— As for ignorant presumers, these hear the glad tidings of the gospel with a fatal indifference; and say in their hearts, they shall have peace, though they go on in their evil way, stupidly neglecting so great salvation, and regardless of eternal things. But awaken'd minds are rather apt to draw the darkest conclusions with respect to their case, and to judge themselves excluded from the invitations of the gospel.—Sometimes they imagine, that the number and aggravations of their sins exceed the designs of pardoning mercy:— At other times, that they have so long resisted the heavenly call, that now the gate of heaven is irrecoverably barred against them:— And Satan further suggests, that it would be the height of presumption in them to lay claim to the blessings of the gospel, till better prepared for the divine reception. — Upon such imaginary and false grounds as these, multitudes of the invited guests make excuses, and exclude themselves from the marriage-supper of the Lamb. It is therefore the business of the servants of CHRIST to shew, that there is yet room, even for the greatest and vilest sinners to come in, and partake of the gospel-festival; that all things are now ready, for their welcome entertainment;— that the door is still open, and there's free access, not only for those who have escaped the grosser pollutions of the world, but even for the chief of sinners, whose guilt is of a crimson colour and a scarlet dye; that neither the number nor aggravations of their iniquities will exclude them a share in the divine mercy, [Page 15] if now they submit to the sceptre of grace; — that whatever their condition and circumstances may be, it is of present obligation upon them to accept the gospel-call, and their instant duty to come in; the Master invites them to come to him, that they may have life: and whosoever do so, the Master of the house has assured them, that he will in no wise cast them out. †
4. THEY are to exhibit the unspeakable advantages, that will attend a compliance with the gospel-call. — I know indeed, the religion of JESUS is by its enemies often represented in the most frightful and hideous colours, — particularly as laying an unreasonable restraint on the liberties of mankind, and sinking them into melancholy enthusiasts. It becomes us therefore, who are set for the defence of the Gospel, to endeavour the removing this groundless prejudice, and to convince mankind by the light of reason and scripture, that the ways of wisdom are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace: that verily a life of faith in the blessed Redeemer is the way to be happy, both here and hereafter.
O WHAT more honourable, than to be a child of GOD, an heir of the kingdom of heaven? What more pleasing, than to look back, and behold our past iniquities all buried in the depths of eternal oblivion;— than to look forward, and view our dear Saviour acknowledging us his friends and favourites, and adjudging us to a state of unperishing glory? What more advantageous, than to have the divine favour engaged for our protection, the promises of divine grace for our consolation, and an assured title to an inheritance undefiled, incorruptible, and eternal? This is the portion of the true Believer. These the privileges, that attend a compliance with the gospel-call.
[Page 16]THESE things are to be represented in such a manner as may tend to captivate the hearts of men, and engage them in a solicitous care and resolution to renounce the degrading servitude of sin, and resign themselves to the power of redeeming grace. Thus by the most effectual and perswasive methods, the ministers of JESUS are to compel sinners to come in, that his house may be filled.
IT was not in my design, to consider the duty of the ministry in its just extent; but only to insist upon those things that more properly belong to my subject and lie directly in the view of my text.
IT will now doubtless be expected, that I APPLY my discourse, more immediately to the present occasion.
AND suffer me, DEAR SIR, in the first place to address myself to you, who are this day coming under a publick consecration to the service of CHRIST, to bear his name among the Gentiles; to whom the Master is now sending you forth, to compel them to come in, that his house may be filled. We trust, you are a chosen vessel, designed for extensive service in this honourable, though difficult employment. We adore the GOD of nature, who has furnished you with such endowments as suit you to this important charge. We adore the great Head of the church for the nobler gifts and graces of his SPIRIT; by which, we trust, you are enabled to engage in this mission with an ardent love to GOD, the universal Father of mankind, wiih a disinterested zeal for the honour of CHRIST, the compassionate friend of sinners, and with tender concern for the perishing Souls of a People that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death; who have for so many ages been wandring out of the way of salvation, without CHRIST, and without GOD in the world.
[Page 17]THE work of the ministry, in every place, has its difficulties and dangers, and requires much wisdom, fortitude, patience, and self-denial, to discharge it in a right manner, with an encouraging prospect of success: But greater degrees of prudence, humility and meekness, mortification to the present world, holy courage, and zeal for the honour of GOD our SAVIOUR, are necessary where any are call'd to minister the Gospel unto those, who through a long succession of ages have dwelt in the darkness of heathenism, have from their infancy imbibed inveterate prejudices against the christian faith, and from time immemorial been inured to many superstitious and idolatrous practices, directly opposite to the nature and design of the gospel.
WHAT heavenly skill is required, to convey the supernatural mysteries of the gospel into the Minds of uninstructed Pagans, who are a people of a strange speech and hard language?— What deep self-denial is necessary, to enable you chearfully to forsake the pleasures of your native Country, with the agreeable society of your friends and acquaintance, to dwell among those who inhabit not indeed the high-ways and hedges, but uncultivated desarts, and the remotest recesses of the wilderness?— What unwearied zeal and diligence, to proselyte those to the faith of the gospel, who have quenched the light of reason, and by their inhumane and barbarous practices have placed themselves upon a level with the brute-creation?
METHINKS, I hear you crying out, Who is sufficient for these things!— And indeed, if you had no strength to depend upon, but only your own, — no encouragement, but from human assistance, you might justly sink down in a disconsolate despair, and utter the passionate language of MOSES, O my LORD, send, I pray thee, by the hand of him whom thou wilt send: Thy servant is insufficient for so great a work.—But it is at the command of CHRIST, the great Head of the church, that you go forth; who by a train of surprising providences, has been preparing your way for this important embassy; and [Page 18] therefore you may be assured, that he will support you in the faithful discharge of your duty, accept your unfeigned desires to promote the interests of his kingdom, and finally reward your imperfect services with his gracious approbation. You have his divine promise for your security and consolation; Lo! I am with you alway, even to the end of the world. This will afford you light in every darkness,—defence in every danger, —strength in every weakness,—a final victory over every temptation. If CHRIST be with you, in vain do the heathen rage, in vain will their confederated tribes unite their forces to obstruct and discourage you. Infinite wisdom will be your guide,— Almighty power your shield,— and GOD himself your exceeding great reward. The presence of your divine Master will make amends for the absence of your dearest friends and relatives. This will transform a wild and uncultivated desart into a paradise of joy and pleasure; and the lonely hutts of savages into more delightful habitations than the palaces of Princes.
LET not then any difficulties discourage, any dangers affright you. Go forth in the name and strength of the Lord JESUS, to whom you are now to be devoted in the sacred office of the ministry. Be not ashamed of the gospel of CHRIST; for it is the power of GOD unto salvation to every one that believeth, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile. Let zeal for the honour of GOD, and compassion for the souls of men, animate your publick discourses and private addresses to the people committed to your charge. Always remember, that your character is A MINISTER OF JESUS; and therefore with the inspired Doctor of the Gentiles, you are to know nothing among them, save CHRIST and him crucified. Frequently consider, that the gospel is a divine discipline to purify the heart, and set up the kingdom of the Redeemer in the souls of men: And therefore it is not sufficient to bring sinners to a profession of the name of CHRIST, and an outward subjection to the institutions of divine worship. You are sent to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God — that they may receive forgiveness [Page 19] of sins, and an inheritance among them that are sanctified by faith that is in CHRIST. Unless this be effected (whatever other improvements they gain) they are left under the dominion of sin, and exposed to the wrath of GOD; and their superior degrees of knowledge will only serve to light them down to the regions of death and misery.— This then is to be the principal design of your ministry: For this you are to labour with unwearied application,— and with incessant importunity to encompass the throne of that God, whose peculiar prerogative it is to teach us to profit; whose grace alone can make them a willing people in the day of his power
AND for your encouragement, I will only add,—When I consider the many prophecies, in sacred scripture, of the triumphant progress of the gospel in the last ages of the world, I cannot but lift up my head with joy in an humble expectation, that the day draws near, yea, is even at hand, when the promises made to the Son of God shall be more illustriously fulfilled: — When he shall have the heathen for his inheritance, amd the utmost ends of the earth for his possession; — When his name shall be great among the gentiles, and be honoured and adored from the rising of the sun to the going down of the same.— But if the appointed time is not yet come, and the attempts made to introduce this glorious day, fail of desired success,—your judgment will be with the Lord, and your Reward with your God. If the gentiles be not gathered in; you will be glorious in the eyes of the Lord, who accepts and rewards his servants according to the sincerity of their desires, and not according to the success of their endeavours.
I shall CONCLUDE, with a few words to the Body of the People.
GOD our Saviour, in infinite condescension, hath sent his servants to invite you to come in, and receive the blessings, which infinite wisdom has contrived, and astonishing grace prepared, for your entertainment. And surely MY BRETHREN, it is your important duty, and incomparable [Page 20] interest, not to despise the salvation of God sent unto the gentiles, nor make light of the gospel-message to you.
GÒD has been pleased to employ us the messengers of his grace, Men of like passions with yourselves, subject to the common infirmities of human nature: But the message comes from Him, who is KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS; whom you are under the strongest obligations to hear and obey, in point of interest, gratitude, and duty.
WHAT gracious and condescending methods has he taken, to allure and invite you! Has he not descended from heaven to earth; from the boundless glories of eternity, to all the sufferings and afflictions of this mortal life, that he might purchase and reveal salvation; that he might engage your love, and perswade you to comply with his saving designs! Does he not send his Embassadors to beseech you in his stead, to be reconciled to God!
WHAT excuses have you to make, that will stand the trial of an enlightned conscience, or justify you at the awful tribunal of God? Will the vanishing enjoyments of sin and sense, or the perishing riches of this transitory world, make amends for the loss of the divine favour, or support you under the terrors of eternal damnation?
ARE there any honours comparable to the dignity and character of a child of God, — a title to the privileges of his house and family? Are there any pleasures equal to the smiles of God's reconciled face,— the refreshing visits of his love,— the immortal joys of his salvation!
BUT how deplorable, how desperate will be your case, if you finally refuse the gospel-invitation, and perish in your natural state of guilt and misery? The compassionate JESUS, who now addresses you in the inviting language of love, will then speak to you with the voice of terror, and swear in his wrath, that you shall never enter into his rest, that you shall never taste of his supper, the rich provision which he has made for the eternal entertainment of his guests. When once the Master of the house is risen up [Page 21] and hath shut to the door, you will in vain stand without, and knock for admission.
IN a word, Now, he declares by his servants, that all things are ready, — and all that are bidden, shall be welcome, upon their coming in, to be partakers of the benefit. The blood of Christ is now ready, to cleanse you from all your guilt and pollution; — His righteousness is now ready, to adorn your naked souls with the garment of salvation; — His Spirit is now ready, to take possession of you, and make you eternal monuments of victorious and redeeming grace. The Spirit and the Pride say, Come; and whosoever (of the lost and perishing sons of Adam) will, let him come, and participate of the blessings of the gospel freely, without money and without price. The arms of everlasting mercy are open, to receive you: The treasures of divine grace are open, to supply your wants: And every one of you that now sincerely accepts this gracious invitation, shall hereafter be admitted to sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the Kingdom of Heaven.
For which, God of his infinite mercy prepare us all, thro' Jesus Christ: to whom be glory and dominion world without end.
AMEN.
An APPENDIX, Containing a short Account of the Endeavours, that have been used by the Missionaries of the SOCIETY in Scotland for propagating Christian Knowledge, to introduce the Gospel among the Indians upon the Borders of New-York, &c.
THE deplorable, perishing State of the Indians in these Parts of America, being by several Ministers here represented to the Society in Scotland for propagating Christian Knowledge; the said Society charitably and chearfully came into the Proposal of maintaining two Missionaries among these miserable Pagans, to endeavour their Conversion from Darkness to Light, and from the Power of Satan unto GOD: and sent their Commission to some Ministers and other Gentlemen here, to act as their Correspondents, in providing, directing, and inspecting the said Mission.
As soon as the Correspondents were authorized by the Society's Commission, they immediately looked out for two Candidates of the evangelical Ministry, whose Zeal for the Interests of the REDEEMER's Kingdom, and whose Compassion for poor perishing Souls, would prompt them to such an exceeding difficult and self-denying Undertaking. — They first prevail'd with Mr. Azariah Horton to relinquish a Call to an encouraging Parish, and to [Page 23] devote himself to the Indian Service. — He was directed to Long-Island, in August 1741, at the East End whereof there are two small Towns of the Indians; and from the East to the West End of the Island, lesser Companies settled at a few Miles Distance from one another, for the Length of above an Hundred Miles.— At his first coming among these, he was well received by the most, and heartily welcom'd by some of them.— They at the East End of the Island especially, gave diligent and serious Attention to his Instructions, and were many of them put upon solemn Enquiries about what they should do to be saved.— A general Reformation of Manners was soon observable among the most of these Indians.—They were careful to attend, and serious and solemn in Attendance, upon both publick and private Instructions. — A Number of them were under very deep Convictions of their miserable perishing State; and about twenty of them give lasting Evidences of their saving Conversion to God.— Mr. Horton has baptized thirty five Adults, and forty four Children. — He took Pains with them to learn them to read; and some of them have made considerable Proficiency. But the Extensiveness of his Charge, and the Necessity of his travelling from Place to Place, makes him incapable of giving so constant Attendance to their Instruction in Reading, as is needful. In his last Letter to the Correspondents, he heavily complains of a great Defection of some of them, from their first Reformation and Care of their Souls, occasioned by strong Drink being brought among them, and their being thereby allured to a Relapse into their darling Vice of Drunkenness: A Vice, to which the Indians are every where so greatly addicted, and so vehemently disposed, that Nothing but the Power of divine Grace can restrain that impetuous Lust, when they have Opportunity to gratify it. He likewise complains, that some of them are grown more careless and remiss in the Duties of religious Worship, than they were when first acquainted with the great Things of their eternal Peace.— But as a Number retain their first Impressions, [Page 24] and as they generally attend with Reverence upon his Ministry, he goes on in his Work, with encouraging Hopes of the Presence and Blessing of God with him in his difficult Undertaking.
This is a general View of the State of the Mission upon Long-Island, collected from several of Mr. Horton's Letters; which is all that could now be offered, not having as yet a particular Account from Mr. Horton himself.
It was some Time after Mr. Horton was imploy'd in the Indian Service, before the Correspondents could obtain another qualified Candidate for this self-denying Mission. At length they prevailed with Mr. David Brainerd, to refuse several Invitations unto Places where he had a promising Prospect of a comfortable Settlement among the English, to encounter the Fatigues and Perils, that must attend his carrying the Gospel of Christ to these poor miserable Savages. — A general Representation of whose Conduct and Success in that Undertaking, is contain'd in a Letter we lately received from himself, which is as follows.—
To the Reverend Mr. EBENEZER PEMBERTON.
SINCE you are pleased to require of me some brief and general Account of my Conduct in the Affair of my Mission amongst the Indians; the Pains and Endeavours I have used to propagate Christian Knowledge among them; the Difficulties I have met with in Pursuance of that great Work; and the hopeful and encouraging Appearances I have observed in any of them: I shall now endeavour to answer your Demands, by giving a brief [Page 25] but faithful Account of the most material Things relating to that important Affair, with which I have been, and am still concerned. And this I shall do with more Freedom, and Chearfulness, both because I apprehend it will be a likely Means to give pious Persons, who are concern'd for the Kingdom of CHRIST, some just Apprehension of the many and great Difficulties, that attend the Propagation of it amongst the poor Pagans, and consequently 'tis hopeful, will engage their more frequent and fervent Prayers to God, that those may be succeeded, who are employ'd in this arduous Work: And also because I persuade my self that the Tidings of the Gospel's spreading among the poor Heathen, will be, to those who are waiting for the Accomplishment of the Glorious Things spoken of the City of our God, as good News from a far Country: And that these will be so far from despising the Day of small Things, that on the contrary the least Dawn of Encouragement and Hope, in this important Affair, will rather inspire their pious Breasts with more generous and warm Desires, that the Kingdoms of this World, may speedily become the Kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ.
I shall therefore immediately proceed to the Business before me, and briefly touch upon the most important Matters, that have concern'd my Mission, from the Beginning to this present Time.
On March 15, 1743. I waited on the Correspondents for the Indian Mission at New-York; and the Week following, attended their Meeting at Woodbridge in New-Jersey, and was speedily dismissed by them with Orders to attempt the Instruction of a Number of Indians in a Place some Miles distant from the City of Albany. And on the first Day of April following, I arrived among the Indians, at a Place call'd by them Kaunaumeek, in the County of Albany, near about twenty Miles distant from the City Eastward.
The Place, as to its Situation, was sufficiently lonesome, and unpleasant, being incompassed with Mountains, and Woods; twenty Miles distant from any English Inhabitants; [Page 26] six, or seven from any Dutch; and more than two from a Family that came, some Time since, from the Highlands of Scotland, and had then liv'd (as I remember) about two Years in this Wilderness. In this Family I lodg'd about the Space of three Months, the Master of it being the only Person with whom I could readily converse in those Parts, except my Interpreter; others understanding very little English.
After I had spent about three Months in this Situation, I found my Distance from the Indians a very great Disadvantage to my Work amongst them, and very burdensome to my self; as I was oblig'd to travel forward and backward almost daily on Foot, having no Pasture in which I could keep my Horse for that Purpose. And after all my Pains, could not be with the Indians in the Evening and Morning, which were usually the best Hours to find them at home, and when they could best attend my Instructions.
I therefore resolv'd to remove, and live with or near the Indians, that I might watch all Opportunities, when they were generally at Home, and take the Advantage of such Seasons for their Instruction.
Accordingly I removed soon after; and, for a Time, liv'd with them in one of their Wigwams: and not long after, built me a small House, where I spent the Remainder of that Year intirely alone; my Interpreter (who was an Indian) choosing rather to live in a Wigwam among his own Country-Men.
This Way of living I found attended with many Difficulties, and uncomfortable Circumstances, in a Place where I could get none of the Necessaries and common Comforts of Life (no, not so much as a Morsel of Bread) but what I brought from Places fifteen and twenty Miles distant, and oftentimes was oblig'd, for some Time together to content my self without, for Want of an Opportunity to procure the Things I needed.
But although the Difficulties of this solitary Way of living are not the least, or most inconsiderable, (and doubtless [Page 27] are in Fact many more and greater to those who experience, than they can readily appear to those, who only view them at a Distance) yet I can truly say, that the Burden I felt respecting my great Work among the poor Indians, the Fear and Concern that continually hung upon my Spirit, lest they should be prejudic'd against Christianity, and their Minds imbitter'd against me, and my Labours among them, by Means of the Insinuations of some who (although they are call'd Christians) seem to have no Concern for CHRIST's Kingdom, but had rather (as their Conduct plainly discovers) that the Indians should remain Heathens, that they may with the more Ease cheat, and so inrich themselves by them; The Burden, I say, the Fear, and Concern I felt in these Respects were much more pressing to me, than all the Difficulties that attended the Circumstances of my living.
As to the State or Temper of Mind, in which I found these Indians, at my first coming among them, I may justly say, it was much more desireable, and encouraging, than what appears among those who are altogether uncultivated. Their Heathenish Jealousies and Suspicion and their Prejudices against Christianity, were in a great Measure remov'd by the long continued Labours of the Rev. Mr. Sargeant among a Number of the same Tribe, in a Place little more than twenty Miles distant: by which Means these were, in some good Degree, prepar'd to entertain the Truths of Christianity, instead of objecting against them, and appearing almost intirely untractable, as is common with them at first and as perhaps these appear'd a few Years ago. Some of them, at least, appear'd very well dispos'd toward Religion, and seem'd much pleas'd with my coming among them.
In my Labours with them, in Order to turn them from Darkness to Light, I studied what was most plain, and easy, and best suited to their Capacities: and endeavour'd to set before them from Time to Time (as they were able [Page 28] to receive them) the most important, and necessary Truths of Christianity; such as most immediately concern'd their speedy Conversion to God, and such as I judg'd had the greatest Tendency (as means) to effect that glorious Change in them. But especially I made it the Scope and Drift of all my Labours, to lead them into a thorow Acquaintance with these two Things. — First, the Sinfulness and Misery of the Estate they were naturally in: The Evil of their Hearts, the Pollution of their Natures: The heavy Guilt they were under, and their Exposedness to everlasting Punishment; as also their utter Inability to save themselves, either from their Sins, or from those Miseries which are the just Punishment of them; and their Unworthiness of any Mercy at the Hand of God, on Account of any Thing they themselves could do to procure his Favour, and consequently their extreme Need of CHRIST to save them. — And, Secondly, I frequently endeavoured to open to them the Fulness, Alsufficiency, and Freeness of that Redemption, which the SON of GOD has wrought out by his Obedience and Sufferings, for perishing Sinners: How this Provision he had made, was suited to all their Wants; and how he call'd and invited them to accept of everlasting Life freely, notwithstanding all their Sinfulness, Inability, Unworthiness, &c.
After I had been with the Indians several Months, I compos'd sundry Forms of Prayer, adapted to their Circumstances and Capacities; which with the Help of my Interpreter, I translated into the Indian Language; and soon learn'd to pronounce their Words so as to pray with them in their own Tongue. I also translated sundry Psalms into their Language, and soon after we were able to sing in the Worship of God.
When my People had gained some Acquaintance with many of the Truths of Christianity, so that they were capable of receiving, and understanding many others, which at first could not be taught them, by Reason of their Ignorance of those that were necessary to be previviously [Page 29] known, and upon which others depended; I then gave them an historical Account of God's Dealings with his ancient professing People, the Jews: Some of the Rites, and Ceremonies, they were obliged to observe, as their Sacrifices, &c. And what these were design'd to represent to them: As also some of the surprizing Miracles God wrought for their Salvation, while they trusted in him, and the sore Punishments he sometimes bro't upon them, when they forsook and sinn'd against him. Afterwards I proceeded to give them a Relation of the Birth, Life, Miracles, Sufferings, Death, and Resurrection of CHRIST: as well as his Ascension, and the wonderful Effusion of the Holy SPIRIT consequent thereupon.
And having thus endeavour'd to prepare the Way by such a general Account of Things, I next proceeded to read, and expound to them the Gospel of St. Matthew (at least the Substance of it) in Course, wherein they had a more distinct, and particular View of what they had before some general Notion of.
These Expositions I attended almost every Evening, when there was any considerable Number of them at Home; except when I was obliged to be absent my self, in Order to learn the Indian Language with the Rev. Mr. Sargeant.— Besides these Means of Instruction, there was likewise an English School constantly kept by my Interpreter among the Indians: which I us'd frequently to visit, in Order to give the Children and young People some proper Instructions, and serious Exhortations suited to their Age.
The Degree of Knowledge to which some of them attain'd, was considerable. Many of the Truths of Christianity seem'd fix'd in their Minds, (especially in some Instances,) so that they would speak to me of them, and ask such Questions about them, as were necessary to render them more plain and clear to their Understandings.
[Page 30]The Children also, and young People, who attended the School, made considerable Proficiency (at least some of them) in their Learning; so that had they understood the English Language well, they would have been able to read somewhat readily in a Psalter.
But that which was most of all desirable, and gave me the greatest Encouragement amidst many Difficulties and disconsolate Hours, was, that the Truths of God's Word seem'd, at Times, to be attended with some Power upon the Hearts and Consciences of the Indians. And especially this appeared evident in a few Instances, who were awaken'd to some Sense of their miserable Estate by Nature, and appear'd solicitous for Deliverance from it. Several of them came, of their own Accord, to discourse with me about their Soul's Concerns; and some, with Tears, enquired what they should do to be saved? And whether the GOD that Christians serv'd, would be merciful to those that had been frequently drunk, &c.
And although I can't say, I have satisfactory Evidences of their being renewed in the Spirit of their Mind, and savingly converted to God, yet the Spirit of God did (I apprehend) in such a Manner attend the Means of Grace, and so operate upon their Minds thereby, as might justly afford Matter of Encouragement to hope, that God designed Good to them, and that he was preparing his Way into their Souls.
There likewise appeared a Reformation in the Lives and Manners of the Indians.
Their idolatrous Sacrifices (of which there was but one or two, that I know of, after my coming among them) were wholly laid aside. And their Heathenish Custom of Dancing, Halloeing, &c. they seem'd in a considerable Measure broken off from. And I could not but hope, that they were reform'd in some Measure from the Sin of Drunkenness. They likewise manifested a Regard to the Lord's Day: And not only behav'd soberly themselves, [Page 31] but took Care also to keep their Children in Order.
Yet after all I must confess, that as there were many hopeful Appearances among them, so there were some Things more discouraging. And while I rejoic'd to observe any Seriousness, and Concern among them about the Affairs of their Souls, still I was not without continual Fear and Concern, lest such encouraging Appearances might prove like a Morning-Cloud, that passeth away.
When I had spent near a Year with the Indians, I inform'd them that I expected to leave them in the Spring then approaching, and to be sent to another Tribe of Indians, at a great Distance from them: Upon hearing of which they appear'd very sorrowful, and some of them endeavour'd to perswade me to continue with them; urging that they had now heard so much about their Souls Concerns, that they could never more be willing to live as they had done, without a Minister, and further Instructions in the Way to Heaven, &c. Whereupon I told them, they ought to be willing that others also should hear about their Soul's Concerns, seeing those needed it as much as themselves. Yet further to dissuade me from going, they added, that those Indians, to whom I had Thoughts of going (as they had heard) were not willing to become Christians, as they were, and therefore urged me to tarry with them. I then told them, that they might receive further Instruction without me; but the Indians, to whom I expected to be sent, could not, there being no Minister near to teach them. And hereupon I advised them, in Case I should leave them, and be sent otherwhere, to remove to Stockbridge, where they might be supplied with Land, and Conveniences of Living, and be under the Ministry of the Rev. Mr. Sargeant: Which Advice, and Proposal, they seem'd disposed to comply with.
[Page 32]On April 6, 1744. I was order'd and directed by the Correspondents for the Indian Mission, to take Leave of the People, with whom I had then spent a full Year, and to go (as soon as conveniently I could) to a Tribe of Indians on Delaware-River in Pennsylvania.
These Orders I soon attended, and on April 29th took Leave of my People, who were mostly remov'd to Stockbridge under the Care of the Rev. Mr. Sargeant. I then set out on my Journey toward Delaware; and on May tenth, met with a Number of Indians in a Place called Minnissinks, about an hundred and forty Miles from Kaunaumeek (the Place where I spent the last Year) and directly in my Way to Delaware-River. With these Indians I spent some Time, and first address'd their King in a friendly Manner; and after some Discourse, and Attempts to contract a Friendship with him, I told him I had a Desire (for his Benefit and Happiness) to instruct them in Christianity. At which he laugh'd, turn'd his Back upon me, and went away. I then address'd another Principal Man in the same Manner, who said he was willing to hear me. After some Time, I follow'd the King into his House, and renew'd my Discourse to him: but he declin'd talking, and left the Affair to another, who appeared to be a rational Man. He began, and talked very warmly near a Quarter of an Hour together: he enquired why I desir'd the Indians to become Christians, seeing the Christians were so much worse than the Indians are in their present State. The Christians, he said, would lie, steal, and drink, worse than the Indians. 'Twas they first taught the Indians to be drunk: And they stole from one another, to that Degree, that their Rulers were obliged to hang them for it, and that was not sufficient to deter others from the like Practice. But the Indians, he added, were none of them ever hang'd for Stealing, and yet they did not steal half so much; and he suppos'd that if the Indians should become Christians, they would then be as bad as these. And hereupon he said, they would live as their Fathers liv'd, and go where their Fathers [Page 33] were when they died. I then freely owned, lamented, and join'd with him in condemning the ill Conduct of some, who are called Christians: told him, these were not Christians in Heart; that I hated such wicked Practices, and did not desire the Indians to become such as these.—And when he appear'd calmer, I ask'd him if he was willing, that I should come and see them again: he replied, he should be willing to see me again: as a Friend, if I would not desire 'em to become Christians.—I then bid them farewell, and prosecuted my Journey toward Delaware. And May 13th I arrived at a Place called by the Indians, Sakhauwotung, within the Forks of Delaware in Pennsylvania.
Here also, when I came to the Indians, I saluted their King, and others, in a Manner I thought most engaging. And soon after informed the King of my Desire to instruct them in the Christian Religion. After he had consulted a few Minutes with two or three old Men, he told me, he was willing to hear. I then preach'd to those few that were present: who appear'd very attentive, and well-disposed. And the King in particular seemed both to wonder, and at the same Time to be well pleas'd with what I taught them, respecting the DIVINE BEING, &c. And since that Time he has ever shewn himself friendly to me, giving me free Liberty to preach in his House, whenever I think fit.—Here therefore I have spent the greater Part of the Summer past, preaching usually in the King's House.
The Number of Indians in this Place, is but small: most of those that formerly belong'd here, are dispers'd, and remov'd to Places farther back in the Country. There are not more than ten Houses hereabouts, that continue to be inhabited; and some of these are several Miles distant from others, which makes it difficult for the Indians to meet together so frequently as could be desir'd.
When I first began to preach here, the Number of my Hearers was very small; often not exceeding twenty or twenty-five Persons: But towards the latter Part of the Summer, their Number increas'd, so that I have frequently had forty Persons, or more at once: and oftentimes the [Page 34] most of those belonging to those Parts, came together to hear me preach.
The Effects which the Truths of God's Word have had upon some of the Indians, in this Place, are somewhat encouraging. Sundry of them are brought to renounce Idolatry, and to decline partaking of those Feasts which they used to offer in Sacrifice to certain supposed unknown Powers. And some few Instances among them have, for a considerable Time, manifested a serious Concern for their Soul's eternal Welfare, and still continue to enquire the Way to Zion, with such Diligence, Affection, and becoming Solicitude, as gives me Reason to hope, that God who (I trust) has begun this Work in them, will carry it on, until it shall issue in their saving Conversion to himself. These not only detest their old idolatrous Notions, but strive also to bring their Friends off from them. And as they are seeking Salvation for their own Souls, so they seem desirous, and some of them take Pains, that others might be excited to do the like.
In July last I heard of a Number of Indians residing at a Place (call'd Kauksésauchung) more than thirty Miles Westward from the Place where I usually preach. I visited them, found about thirty Persons, and proposed my Desire of preaching to them: they readily comply'd, and I preach'd them only twice; they being just then removing from this Place (where they only liv'd for the present) to Susquahannah-River where they belong'd.
While I was preaching, they appear'd sober, and attentive; and were somewhat surpriz'd, having never before heard of these Things. There were two or three, who suspected that I had some ill Design upon them; and urg'd, that the white People had abus'd them, and taken their Lands from them, and therefore they had no Reason to think that they were now concern'd for their Happiness: But on the contrary, that they design'd to make them Slaves, or get them on board their Vessels, and make them fight with the People over the Water (as they express'd it) meaning the French and Spaniards, However, [Page 35] the most of them appear'd very friendly, and told me, they were then going directly home to Susquahannah, and desired I would make them a Visit there, and manifested a considerable Desire of farther Instruction.
This Invitation gave me some Encouragement in my great Work; and made me hope, that God design'd to open an effectual Door to me for spreading the Gospel among the poor Heathen farther Westward.
In the Beginning of October last, with the Advice and Direction of the Correspondents for the Indian Mission, I undertook a Journey to Susquahannah. And after three Days tedious Travel, two of them thro' a Wilderness almost unpassable by Reason of Mountains and Rocks, and two Nights lodging in the open Wilderness, I came to an Indian Settlement on the Side of Susquahannah-River, call'd Opeholhaupung: where were twelve Indian Houses, and (as nigh as I could learn) about seventy Souls, old and young, belonging to them.
Here also, soon after my Arrival, I visited the King, addressing him with Expressions of Kindness: and after a few Words of Friendship, inform'd him of my Desire to teach them the Knowledge of Christianity. He hesitated not long before he told me, that he was willing to hear. I then preached, and continu'd there several Days, preaching every Day, as long as the Indians were at Home. And they in order to hear me, deferr'd the Design of their general Hunting (which they were just then entering upon) for the Space of three or four Days.
The Men, I think, universally (except one) attended my Preaching. Only, the Women, supposing the Affair we were upon was of a publick Nature, belonging only to the Men, and not what every individual Person should concern himself with, could not readily be persuaded to come and hear: but, after much Pains used with them for that Purpose, some few ventured to come, and stand at a Distance.
When I had preach'd to the Indians several Times, some of them very frankly proposed what they had to object [Page 36] against Christianity; and so gave me a fair Opportunity for using my best Endeavours to remove from their Minds those Scruples and Jealousies they laboured under: And when I had endeavour'd to answer their Objections, some appeared much satisfied. I then asked the King if he was willing I should visit, and preach to them again, if I should live to the next Spring: He replied, he should be heartily willing for his own Part, and added, he wish'd the young People would learn &c. I then put the same Question to the rest: Some answered, they should be very glad, and none manifested any dislike to it.
There were sundry other Things in their Behaviour, which appeared with a comfortable, and encouraging Aspect; that, upon the whole, I could not but rejoice I had taken that Journey among them, altho' it was attended with many Difficulties and Hardships. The Method I used with them, and the Instructions I gave them (I am persuaded) were Means in some Measure, to remove their heathenish Jealousies, and Prejudices against Christianity: And I could not but hope, the God of all Grace was preparing their Minds to receive the Truth as it is in Jesus. If this may be the happy Consequence, I shall not only rejoice in my past Labours and Fatigues; but shall, I trust, also be willing to spend and be spend, if I may thereby be instrumental to turn them from Darkness to Light, and from the Power of Satan to GOD.
Thus, Sir, I have given you a faithful Account of what has been most considerable respecting my Mission among the Indians; in which I have studied all convenient Brevity. I shall only now take leave to add a Word or two respecting the Difficulties that attend the Christianizing of these poor Pagans.
In the first Place, Their Minds are fill'd with Prejudices against Christianity, on Account of the vicious Lives and unchristian Behaviour of some that are call'd Christians. These not only set before them the worst Examples, but some of them take Pains, expresly in Words, to dissuade them from becoming Christians; foreseeing, that if these should be [Page 37] converted to God, the Hope of their unlawful Gain would thereby be lost.
Again, These poor Heathens are extremely attach'd to the Customs, Traditions and fabulous Notions of their Fathers. And this one seems to be the Foundation of all their other Notions, viz. that 'twas not the same GOD made them, who made the White People, but another who commanded them to live by Hunting, &c. and not conform to the Customs of the white People.— Hence when they are desir'd to become Christians, they frequently reply, that they will live as their Fathers liv'd, and go to their Fathers, when they die. And if the Miracles of Christ and his Apostles be mentioned, to prove the Truth of Christianity; They also mention sundry Miracles, which their Fathers have told them were anciently wro't among the Indians, and which Satan makes them believe were so.—They are much attach'd to Idolatry: Frequently making Feasts, which they eat in Honour to some unknown Beings, who, they suppose, speak to them in Dreams; promising them Success in Hunting, and other Affairs, in Case they will sacrifice to them. They oftentimes also offer their Sacrifices to the Spirits of the Dead; who, they suppose, stand in Need of Favours from the Living, and yet are in such a State as that they can well reward all the Offices of Kindness that are shewn them. And they impute all their Calamities to the Neglect of these Sacrifices.
Furthermore, they are much awed by those among themselves, who are call'd Powwaws, who are supposed to have a Power of Inchanting, or poysoning them to Death, or at least in a very distressing Manner. And they apprehend it would be their sad Fate to be thus inchanted, in Case they should become Christians.
Lastly, The Manner of their living is likewise a great Disadvantage to the Design of their being Christianized. They are almost continually roving from Place to Place; and 'tis but rare, that an Opportunity can be had with some of them for their Instruction. There is scarce [Page 38] any Time of the Year, wherein the Men can be found generally at home, except about six Weeks before, and in, the Season of planting their Corn, and about two Months in the latter Part of Summer, from the Time they begin to road their Corn, until 'tis fit to gather in.
As to the Hardships that necessarily attend a Mission among them, the Fatigues of frequent Journeying in the Wilderness, the Unpleasantness of a mean and hard Way of Living, and the great Difficulty of addressing a People of a strange Language, these I shall, at present, pass over in Silence; designing what I have already said of Difficulties attending this Work, not for the Discouragement of any, but rather for the Incitement of all, who live the Appearing and Kingdom of Christ, to frequent the Throne of Grace with earnest Supplications, that the Heathen, who were anciently promised to Christ for his Inheritance, may now actually and speedily be brought into his Kingdom of Grace, and made Heirs of immortal Glory. —
P. S. It should have been observed in the preceding Account, that although the Number of Indians in the Place I visited on Susquahannah River, in October last, is but small, yet their Numbers in the adjacent Places are very considerable: Who, 'tis hopeful, might be brought to embrace Christianity by the Example of others. But being at present somewhat more savage, and unacquainted with the English, than these I visited, I thought it not best to make my first Attempts among them; hoping I might hereafter be better introduc'd among them by Means of these.—Sundry of the neighbouring Settlements are much larger than this: so that there are, probably, several hundreds of the Indians not many Miles distant.
ERRATA.
Pag. 10. lin. 2. read over a ——
P. 12, l. 30. r. effectual —
P. 27. l. 22. r. Jealousy —