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
IT is from the sides of _eternity_ I now address you. I am heartily
sorry, that I have so little strength to write what I long to
communicate to you. But let me tell you, my brother, _eternity_
is another thing than we ordinarily take it to be. Oh, how vast
and boundless! Oh, how fixed and unalterable! Oh, of what infinite
importance is it, that we be prepared for _eternity_! I have been just
dying for more than a week; and all around me have thought so: in this
time I have had clear views of _eternity_: have seen the blessedness
of the _godly_; and have longed to share their happy state; as well as
been comfortably satisfied, that I shall do so; but Oh, what anguish
is raised in my mind, to think of an _eternity_ for those who are
_Christless_, for those who bring their false hopes to the grave
with them! The sight was so dreadful, I could by no means bear it:
my thoughts recoiled, and I said, “Who can dwell with everlasting
burnings!” Oh, methought, that I could now see my friends, that I
might warn them, to see to it, they lay their foundation for _eternity_
sure. And you my dear brother, I have been particularly concerned for;
and have wondered I so much neglected conversing with you about your
spiritual state at our last meeting. Oh, let me beseech you now to
examine, whether you are indeed a _new creature_? Whether the glory of
God has ever been the highest concern with you? Whether you have ever
been reconciled to all the perfections of God? In a word, whether God
has been your portion, and a holy conformity to him your chief delight?
If you have reason to think you are _graceless_, Oh, give yourself no
rest, till God arise and save. But if the case should be otherwise,
bless God for his grace, and press after holiness.
Oh, my dear brother, flee fleshly _lusts_, and the inchanting
_amusements_, as well as corrupt _doctrines_ of the present day; and
strive to _live to God_. Take this as the last line from
_Your affectionate dying brother_,
DAVID BRAINERD.
* * * * *
To a young Gentleman, a _Candidate_ for the _Ministry_,
written at the same time.
_Very dear Sir_,
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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