The works of the Rev. John Wesley, Vol. 13 (of 32)Wesley, John
Religion
The works of the Rev. John Wesley, Vol. 13 (of 32)
Wesley, John
Methodist Church; Theology -- Early works to 1800; Theology -- History -- 18th century
A LETTER to the
Rev. Mr. JOHN WESLEY.
By a GENTLEWOMAN.
_Laton-Stone_, November 8, 1764.
Reverend and dear Sir,
I HAVE never yet had an opportunity of fully laying before you, the
reasons of my coming to reside at this place, and the nature of my
employment here, which I will now take the liberty to do.
During my former abode among this people, they were often laid on my
mind in prayer, and I was often greatly comforted, by an hope, that
they would one day hear and receive the gospel.
Removing from these parts in February, 1761, those thoughts were
taken from me, for a season: but after a year and an half, being
providentially called to return hither, the same thoughts returned into
my mind. Yet I could not easily consent to leave _London_, till I had,
with my friend, laid it before the Lord; being fully persuaded, that if
it was of God, he would make plain paths for our feet.
Soon after, many outward providences confirmed us, in our belief, that
it was God’s appointment. His Spirit also shone clearer upon our souls,
and convinced us, it was a cross which he called us to take up. One day
in particular, when my friend and I were laying it before him in prayer,
he condescended to assure her, that he would _not send us a warfare at
our own charges_. I thought, _let not my Lord be angry, and I will ask_
yet one sign more. This was the settling of an affair, which seemed to
man impossible. And it was settled within a few days. O God, who can
stay thy hand?
But no sooner was my design mentioned to others, than it was vehemently
opposed, one in particular charged me not to go, saying, “It was all
a scheme of the devil.” Either that night, or the next, I dreamed
I was at _Laton-Stone_, and a great number of all sorts of people
about me. I was prest in spirit to speak to them; but being pained
at the appearance of many gay ones among them, I said, in the anguish
of my soul, “Lord, what do I here among this people?” Immediately I
thought Jesus came down, and stood just before me. The brightness of
his presence so overcame me, that there was no strength left in me. He
said, “I will send you to a people, that are not a people; and I will
go with you: bring them unto me. I will lay my hand upon them, and heal
them: fear not; only believe.” He then disappeared, leaving me quite
penetrated with his presence and his words. After having wept some time,
I thought I told the people what the Lord had said. About half seemed
serious and attentive, and desirous of being separated from the rest. I
thought I was to find them a place to meet in: in order to which, I was
obliged to walk over a floor no thicker than a wafer: however, I went
over, and not a splinter gave way under my feet. Soon after I awoke
with these words, “The mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.”
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account