of natural reason, and the opposers of the sovereignty of divine grace. But, not to dispute with men, on whom we can have no hold, because there is no first principle in which we both agree, we will demand of them, only one thing; which, if they can make good, our dispute with them will end. Let them produce us, from the vast catalogue of unbelievers, the same bright examples of virtue and piety-the same examples of humility and patience, of heroic fortitude and disinterestednessof zeal for the glory of God, and the happiness of Let them produce us such men as Watts and Doddridge, as Addison and Newton, as Locke and Boyle-as many of the Fathers of the primitive Church, and above all as the Apostles-and let them show us a religion founded by such a person as Jesus Christ. Let them do these things, and we will become the proselytes to their system, and cast in our lot with them. men. When men set up human reason as the supreme umpire of truth, let them consider, that supposing it to be such, we have even on this ground, incomparably the advantage of them; since the greatest masters of reason that the world has ever seen, have received the Gospel, and trusted in that alone, to guide them through the mazes of this world, to the kingdom of light. I must confess it is a very pleasing thought, that if we are deceived, as to the Christian system, we have the satisfaction of thinking, that we are in company with the wisest, and the best of mankind. Supposing it even doubtful whether Christianity were true or not, we can be no losers by believing and adhering to it: for if it were even possible we should be at last deceived, and find it to be altogether a fiction, the deception will be such, that we shall have no reason to be ashamed of it; since the reason of mankind in its highest and most improved state, has not been able to find any thing better, any thing equal, any thing comparable to it. I will add on this article only one thing more, and that is, that on the ground of infidelity itself, we have vastly the advantage of those who reject the Gospel; for we also take human reason for our guide, as far as it can possibly go; and where it stops, we take revelation to supply its defects. If reason then should fail us at last, we have revelation; and if revelation should be unnecessary, we shall have all that reason can do for us; so that we have a double security for being both right and safe: whereas those who reject the Gospel, and trust to reason alone, if that should fail them, they are undone, because they have no resource left. This being their real situation, we would affectionately invite them, to enter the course with us, and take the wisdom of God, though foolishness in the of too many in the world, to be their guide, their confidence, and joy; and they may rest assured, eyes that it will neither mislead, nor disappoint them, but will crown their faith and adherence to Christ, with a part in that kingdom which shall not be moved. 2. If the Gospel be of such importance to all the interests of mankind, as we have attempted to illustrate, then it is the duty of those who believe it to be such, to use all proper and convenient measures, to encourage and promote it. And this be done in so many may different ways, that every Christian has it in his power to contribute something towards it. His instructions, his exhortations, his example, are all suited to do something; and much more perhaps, than we are aware of. Every one is bound to use his personal influence in private life, as far as it will extend-and in the same degree as individuals maintain a conduct agreeable to the Gospel, they serve to recommend, to honor, and to extend it. It is their duty also to encourage and aid those who profess it; and especially those whose conduct is remarkably suitable to their profession. Our religion binds and obligeth us to shew benevolence to all men, but especially to the household of faith. When any are in want, we are to contribute something to their support, if we have ability; if they are in mistakes. we should rectify them; if discouraged we should support and animate them; if careless we should rouse them; and if in afflictions we should com fort them-"Whosoever shall give to one of these little ones, a cup of cold water, only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward." There are other means also in which almost every one may bear a part. The printing and publishing of useful books, especially on practical religion, and recommending and dispersing them, are means of direct and singular influence, and in all ages have been an excellent defence against the attacks of infidelity, and the stratagems of the devil. To these I may add, that the association of Christians for encouraging one another, and their encouragement and aid to those who are engaged in publishing and defending the Gospel, or who have that important office in their view, are means highly approvable, and have been attended with the remarkable blessing of GodThis is a great and glorious work. Finally, agreeable to our profession of the divine original and excellency of the Gospel, we ought to hold fast the form of sound words, which it has given us, even "the words of eternal life," and maintain our faith and hope in it, steadfast unto the end, that by its power and efficacy, forming us to a divine temper, we may in due time, by faith and patience, have a part with them who inherit the promises. END OF VOL. I. |