The works of the Rev. John Wesley, Vol. 11 (of 32)Wesley, John
Religion
The works of the Rev. John Wesley, Vol. 11 (of 32)
Wesley, John
Methodist Church; Theology -- Early works to 1800; Theology -- History -- 18th century
But Mr. _Ellis_, having predetermined what he would do, was not to be
moved by arguments. He therefore let him know, that unless he would
promise to preach no more in _this way_, at least not in those parts,
he should be committed to prison without delay. He replied, “That as
he had been so earnestly importuned to come there, he could not, in
conscience, promise not to come;” and asked, “Are there no swearers,
drunkards, sabbath-breakers, and the like, in those parts?” Being
answered, “There are.” He added, that if after he had preached there
a few times, there appeared to be no reformation among them, he would
never come thither more. But this not satisfying, he was ordered to
prison. He went thither with all readiness, and esteemed it matter of
thanksgiving, that his Lord counted him worthy, to suffer reproach for
his name’s-sake.
Several persons accompanied him into the prison, where, he, with his
friends, sang praises to God, and exhorted the people. The street was
crouded, some saying one thing, and some another; in general however,
they were displeased at his confinement; and almost the whole town
seemed concerned in his behalf. He still (as far as his voice would
reach) preached to them thro’ the window.
The inhabitants shewed the utmost civility towards him; and not knowing
how long he might be confined, provided bedding and provision for him
and his companions. But it was not long before the magistrate sent to
let him go. Coming out, and seeing such a number of people, he would
fain, have preached to them; but was dissuaded by his friends. He then
went to a private room, and exhorted till ten o’clock, as many as came
to him.
He went thither twice afterwards, and tho’ with much contradiction,
preached to them that gospel, which is _the power of God unto
salvation_. His endeavours were not all lost. There are to this hour
some of the fruit of his labours in that place; persons to whom,
because of the blessing which God made him to their souls, his memory
will be ever precious.
The following instance happened in the north of _Ireland_, some time
after, at a place called _New-Town_, whether he went on the Lord’s day.
At the desire of several persons, he intended to have preached in a
place called the _Church Green_, where were assembled, a large company
to hear him. But while his hands were lifted up in prayer, there
came one Mr. _Mortimer_, a presbyterian, and with him several hundred
persons, who taking hold of him by the breast, pulled him with violence
to the ground. They hauled him thro’ the mob, and had well nigh choaked
him, when one Mr. _Biers_ freed him from the hands of him who held him.
But for this he was soon struck to the ground himself.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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