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UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
GENERAL LIBRARY
OCTAVIA WILLIAMS BATES
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7
:
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
At the Parish-Church of
St. Mary-le-Bow,
On Friday the 20th of February, 1729.
Being the Day of their Anniverſary Meeting.
By ZACHARY PEARCE, D.D.
Vicar of St. Martin's in the Fields, and Cbaplain
in Ordinary to His Majefty.
LONDON: •
Printed by J. DoWNING, in Bartholomew-Clofe,
near Weft-Smithfield, M.DCC.XXX.
::
f
!
}
February 20. 1729.
At the Anniversary Meeting of the Society
for the Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts.
T
GREED, That the Thanks of
A the SOCIETY be given to the
Reverend Dr. Pearce, for his Ser-
mon Preached this Day before the
SOCIETY: And that he be defired to
Print the fame.
David Humphreys,
Secretary.
Libz.
Bates
6-18
52398
3
ISAIAH xlix 6.
It is a light Thing, that thou
fbouldeft be my Servant to raiſe
up the Tribes of Jacob, and to
reftore the Preferved of Ifrael :
I will also give thee for a Light
to the Gentiles, that thou mayeft
be
my
Salvation unto the End
of the Earth.
HESE Words are a Part of
a very remarkable Prophecy,
concerning fome Deliverance
and Salvation to be effected,
not for the Jews only, but for the Gentiles,
for no leſs than all the Nations of the
Earth and Expreffions of the like Import
A 2
are
4
A Sermon before the Society
are frequently met with in almoſt all the
Prophetical Books, tho' no one of the
Prophets enters fo often into this great
Subject, and dwells fo long upon it, as
Iſaiah is obferved to do.
ALL Chriftians, and generally all Jews,
acknowledge, that the Prophecies of this
Sort relate to the Kingdom of the Mef
fiah; the only Point in Difpute between
them is, Whether the Kingdóm thus fore-
told, was to be a Temporal, or a Spiri-
tual one.
AND it must be confeffed, that the
Prophets often defcribe the Meſſiah, un-
der the Character of a Ruler, a Prince,
and a King: David and Iſaiah do this
more remarkably than the reft; and it
is not to be wondred at, that they dealt
much in fuch high-founding Titles, fince
the one was himfelf a King, and the
other of the Royal Houfe of Judah.
BUT till the Prophets don't forget
to let us fee by evident Marks what fort
of King the Meffiah was to be, and what
the Nature of that Deliverance or Sal-
vation, which he was to bring about.
Ifa. xi. 9. IN his Reign, the Earth was to be
full of the Knowledge of the Lord; all
Na-
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 5
་
3
9.
33.
Nations were to ſpeak a pure Lan-Zeph. iii.
guage, that they might all call upon the
Name of the Lord, to ferve him with one
Confent: Religion therefore was to be
one great End of the Meffiah's Domi-
nion; a Religion to be fpread univer-
fally over the World, which the Jewish
Religion, in the Nature of it, could not
be: A New Covenant was to be made Jer. xxxi.
with the Houſe of Ifrael, and for that pur-
pofe a Law was
was to go forth out of Isa. ii. 2.
Sion, and the Word of the Lord from Fe-
rufalem. Nor was this Law, like that
which was given in the Wilderneſs, a
Ceremonial one, but it was to be put in
their inward Parts, and written in Fer. xxxi.
their Hearts: the Confequence of which 33.
was to be, that the former or Jewish Re-
ligion was no longer to take Place; for
out of the Gentiles Men were to be ta-isa. lxvi.
ken for Priefts and for Levites, contrary to 21.
the Mofaick Inftitution: and, what was
ftill more inconfiftent with the eſtabliſhed
Worſhip of the Jews or their Profelytes,
under this New Law, in every Place Malachi i.
Incenſe was to be offered up unto the Lord,
and a pure Offering: the general Effect
of all which was to be, that their Ini-Jer. xxxi.
-
A 3
quity
II.
34.
6
A Sermon before the Society
quity was to be forgiven, and their Sins
remembred no more.
WHAT then can all theſe Particulars
point out but the Goſpel? it is this alone,
which anſwers the Deſcription; and to
fuppofe that no more is meant by theſe
full and comprehenſive Expreffions, than
the folemnizing a Paffover under Heze-
chias, or the Reſtoration of the Jews
from Captivity, or the coming of many
Profelytes into their Religion, is to play
with the Senſe of Words, and to give
them a forced, as well as a falfe Inter-
pretation.
THESE Prophecies were underſtood of
the Goſpel and its Effects, by the Writers
of the New Teftament, to whom the
fame Spirit of GOD explained them, that
at firft dictated them: this of the Text
particularly is thus applied by the Apo-
ftle St. Paul in Atts xiii. 47. who, when
the Jews at Antioch rejected his Doctrine,
faid, Lo! we turn to the Gentiles, for fo
bath the Lord commanded us, faying, I
have set thce to be a Light of the Gen-
tiles, that thou fhouldeft be for Salvation
unto the End of the Earth.
WE
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 7
WE fee then, that the Prophecy in the
Text, as well as others of the like Na-
ture, looks forward towards the Goſpel,
which in the Fulness of Time appeared
in the World; and this being premiſed,
the Subject of the enfuing Difcourfe fhall
be to ſhew theſe three Things.
I. THAT the declared Defign of Pro-
vidence is, that the Goſpel of
Chrift or the Meffiah, fhould be
preached and received in all the
Nations of the World, unto the End
of the Earth.
II. THAT this Defign of Providence
was not effected in the Days of the
Apoſtles, or in any of the Ages
which have fucceeded them : And
III. THAT therefore, fince we know
what the Deſign of God is, and that
it has not yet been accompliſhed, it
is every Chriſtian's Duty to forward
the Work, and contribute towards it;
eſpecially when a Door is opened,
and Opportunity is offered for pro-
pagating the Chriftian Faith.
A 4
AND
8
A Sermon before the Society
[
?
AND this will naturally lead me to
make an Application of the whole, to
the Occafion of our Meeting, and to the
particular Buſineſs and Employment of
this Society.
I. To begin with the firft Head, and
fhew that the declared Defign of Provi-
dence, &c.
AND here it may be remark'd, how large
and comprehenſive the Expreffions are
which the Prophets make Ufe of on this
Occafion; how various the Phraſes, and
how general the Extent of all of them :
no Exceptions or Limitations are any
where found, and the whole Force of
the Jewish Language feems ſpent in the
Recital of them: All People, and all
(a) Ifa. Fleſh, all (a) Nations and Tongues, (b) all
(b) Zep. the Ifles of the Heathen, (c) all that are
(c) Ats afar off, (d) the Abundance of the Sea,
a. the Forces of the Gentiles, (e) from Sea to
Czech, Sea, (f) and from the rifing up of the Sun
unto its going down, and (as in the Text)
Salvation unto the End of the Earth; thefe
and the like Marks of Univerfality are
the conftant Stile of the Prophets, when
this glorious Subject is in their View.
Ixvi. 18.
ii. II.
ii. 39.
1x. 5.
ix. 10.
(f) Mal.
i. II.
BUT
>
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 9
}
BUT ftill it muſt be confeffed, that
from the Expreffions alone, us'd in fuch
pompous Tongues as the Eaſtern are, it
cannot be concluded for a Certain, that
they muſt be underſtood in the wideft
Senſe of them: The Prophetick Stile
is too well known, to make it neceffary
to take all that is faid without abate-
ment made for the Flight of his Meta-
phors and Boldnefs of its Figures: We
fhall fee fome Proofs of this under the
Second Head of my Difcourfe: at pre-
fent it may be obferv'd, that by the help
of fome other Confiderations the Point
may be clear'd up, and the Meaning of
theſe Prophecies may be fhewn to be a
Strict and Literal one; for that Demon-
ſtration, which the Words themſelves don't
afford us, may be had from the Circum-
ftances of the Deliverer, and from the
Nature of the Gofpel or Salvation.
26.
Chrift, by taking the Human Nature
upon him, became equally related to All
Mankind, all Nations being made of one as xvii.
Blood, as the Apoſtle expreffes it: tho'
born a few, yet in the Fleſh he was al-
lied to the whole Human Race; and
therefore the Prefumption is pretty ſtrong,
that
IO
A Sermon before the Society
that All, who had a fhare in his Nature,
were to have a fhare in his Meffage too.
HOWEVER, the fame thing may be
more certainly concluded from the Na-
ture of the Goſpel or Salvation which he
brought, from its being of equal Ufe and
Concernment for All Nations and Perfons
as for Any: Say, why it was fent into
the World, unleſs becauſe it was wanted;
and then affign a Reaſon (if you can,)
why the Bleffing fhould be confin'd to
ſome part of the World only: This Na-
tion may probably be Wickeder than
That; but Remiffion of Sins (which the
Gofpel proclaims) is what every Nation,
the leaſt corrupted in Belief or Practice,
ſtands in need of: and furely no Diftin-
ction could ever be defign'd by GoD,
where Nature's Cry for Help was one and
the fame: this would but ill fuit with
the Character which the Scriptures give
Rom. ii. of him, that he is no Refpecter of Per-
fons, and that he is not the God of the
Fews only, but of the Gentiles also.
II. and
iii. 29.
}
FROM thefe Confiderations therefore
it may be gather'd, that all the Expreffions,
which declare that the Gofpel is to be
preached to and received by all Nations,
are
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 11
are to be Literally and Strictly under-
ftood: I proceed now to
II. THE fecond Head, which was to
fhew, that this Deſign of Providence was
not effected in the Days of the Apoſtles, or
in any of the Ages which have fucceeded
them.
AND for this there is a very obvious
Reafon: fome well-inhabited Parts of the
World were then Unknown, particularly
the vaſt Tract of America, not difcover'd till
about 200 Years ago: and if the found of
the Goſpel had not gone forth into any
Part of this New World, before the
Way was fo lately open'd to it from Eu-
rope, we know what Progrefs it has made
there fince, and how many Nations of
that ſpacious Continent have never yet
had CHRIST preached unto them.
THE Truth is, that as the Preaching
of the Goſpel is to be Univerfal, ſo is
the Time too for doing it; as no Limits are
fet in the firſt Cafe, fo no Period is af
fign'd in the latter. Nor can the Di-
vine Goodneſs be called in Queſtion up-
on this account: for the Scriptures always
fpeak of the Goſpel as the Free-Gift of
God; and what Nation, or Perfon can
1
juſt-
12
ས
A Sermon before the Society
+
juftly complain, unlefs debar'd of fome
Right? And what Right has any one to
a Free-Gift? Thofe, who think it hard
to account, why Some Nations fhould be
brought fo much later into the Gofpel
than others were, would do well to re-
member, how much later All Nations
came into the Knowledge of the True
GOD than the Jews did: if GoD's Beha-
viour may be cenfur'd as Partial in the
one Cafe, it muſt be fo in the other:
But there is nothing in this whole Pro-
cedure, which cannot be fufficiently and
clearly juftified: It is enough, that fooner
or later all Nations are to ſee the Sal-
vation of God; but the Times and the
Seafons of it God hath put in his own
Power, as beſt knowing when a Kingdom
is prepared for the Reception of his Fa
vours; and when the Human means,
which he chooſes to make ufe of, may be
beſt made Subfervient and Inftrumentál
to his Purpoſe.
漏
​IT muſt be acknowledged however,
that the Ancient Chriftian Writers gene
rally believed, that the Apoſtles, before
their Separation, divided the feveral Parts
of the World between them, and that
each
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 13
1
•
·
each took his diſtinct Portion for preach-
ing the Gofpel in; from whence fome
have ſeriouſly maintain'd, that every Part
of the whole Earth (even America it ſelf,
tho' then Unknown to the reſt of Man-
kind) had the Knowledge of CHRIST
communicated to it by the Labour of
fome one or other of the Apoſtles.
AND for this Opinion fome Paffages
of the New Teſtament are produced,
which ſpeak indeed at large, and ſeem at
firſt fight to give it Countenance: fuch is
Chrift's Command to his Difciples, when
he was afcending, that they ſhould Matt.
80
and teach all Nations; that they fhould Mark xvi.
go into all the World, and preach the 15.
Gospel to every Creature.
کو
xxviii.19.
To which they add, that he fix'd the
Time for the accompliſhment of it, when
he faid, This Gospel of the Kingdom Matt.
Shall be preached in all the World, for axxiv. 14.
Witness unto all Nations, and then ſhall
the time come, i. e. then, not till then,
fhall be the End of the Jewish State.
AND they put us in mind, that ac-
cordingly the Apoſtles are faid to have
gone forth and preached every where ; Mark xvi.
and that when St. Paul wrote to the Co- 20.
lof-
2
14
A Sermon before the Society
Coloff.i.6. loffians, the Gospel was gone out into
all the World, nay, that it was preached
unto every Creature under Heaven.
Coloff. i.
23.
BUT notwithſtanding the feeming
Comprehenfiveneſs of theſe ſeveral Ex-
preffions, it may be fhewn, Firſt, that the
Notion of the Gofpel's having been Then
preached to all Nations without Excep-
tion, is not fupported by the New Te-
ftament, but is rather refuted by it;
and Secondly, that the Nature of the
thing and its Circumſtances make very
ftrongly againſt this Notion, and prove
it to be in the higheſt degree improba-
ble.
1. The abovemention'd Paffages of
Holy Scripture, if taken in the ſtricteſt
Senfe, fpeak more than even the Sup-
porters of this Opinion would have us
underſtand by them; for then we muſt
believe that the Apoſtles preached not only
to every Nation, but to every ſingle Perfon
in every Nation under Heaven: Some
allowance therefore must be made; and
if we compare thefe Expreffions with
others of the like Nature in the New
Teftament, we fhall find our felves ju-
ſtify'd
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 15
ftify'd in giving a more reftrained Senfe
to them.
་
WHEN Our Saviour firft fent out his
Apoſtles, in his Life-time, he command-
ed them not to go into the way of the Mark x. 5.
Gentiles or Nations, but rather to the
loft sheep of the Houſe of Ifrael. Whereas,
when he was about to aſcend up into Hea-
ven, the Commiffion, which he gave
them, was more Extenfive and General;
that they ſhould go and preach not only
to the Jews, but to the Gentiles or Na-
tions alfo: in this View he ſeems to have
faid to them, Go and teach all Nations,
go into all the World, and preach the Gof-
pel to every Creature. And in this fenfe
too it is moſt probable, that St. Paul
faid the Goſpel was gone out into all the
World, and was preached unto every Crea-
ture under Heaven: the Expreffions imply-
ing no Abfolute Univerfality, but only an
Oppofition to fuch a Limitedneſs or Par-
tiality as before confin'd the preaching
of the Goſpel to the Jewiſh People. In
this View of the matter, we can eafily
fee how the End of the Jewiſh State
did not come, till the Gofpel had been
preached in all the World, and to all Na-
tions,
16
A Sermon before the Society··
t
tions, as our Saviour foretold: for it was
publish'd at firſt in Judea, from whence
it fpread to Samaria, and other Parts
where the Fews dwelt; the Apoſtles ha-
ving for many Years confin'd their Preach-
ing to Them and their Profelytes: till at
jaft about fourteen Years after the Death
of Chrift, St. Paul, by the Direction of the
Holy Ghoft, began to apply himſelf to the
Gentiles, and to call them into the Faith,
as Heirs of Salvation in common with
the Jews.
If this Senſe be not approv'd, yet it is
well known that in the Language of Sacred
and of prophane Authors, (a) every great
Empire is called the whole World, the
ŵy xxuév: particularly the (b) Roman
γῆ οικεμένη
Empire was honour'd with this Name,
the
(a) So in Ifai. xiii. 5. and xiv. 26. the Deſtruction of
Babylon or the Affyrian is exprefs'd by the LXX as the
Deftru&tion πάσης τῆς οικεμένης, οf Afyria and its Empire
only, not of the whole World, for Palestina is commanded
to rejoyce on that occafion. v. 29.
(6) Hence came the Expreffion, Oecumenical Councils :
fee also Jofephus de Bell. Jud. 1. 2. c. 16. Edit. Hudſon.
where King Agrippa fpeaks to the Jews in thefe Words:
Ἡ δ' ἐκείνων ( Ρωμαίων) ιχὺς διὰ τῆς δικαμένης νικη
μᾶλλον δὲ καὶ ταύτης ἐζήτησάν τι πλέον δ' γδ ἐξήρκεσεν
αὐτοῖς ὅλΘ Ευφράτης ὑπὸ τὴν ἀνατολὴν
ὑπὲρ ὠκεανὸν ἑπέραν ἐζήτησαν οἰκεμένην, καὶ μέχρι τῶν ἀνιο
am'
σορήτων
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 17
the ufual Title of it being Imperium or-
bis Terrarum: and therefore no more may
be meant here, than that the Goſpel was
preached over the Roman Empire; over
the Greateſt Part of it, tho' not perhaps in
ſtrictneſs of Speech over every Part of even
that Limited Space: for in the New Te-
ſtament we find the whole World ſpoken
of, tho' even a Part only of the Roman
Empire, probably no more than (a) Fu-
dea is intended; as when Agabus fig-att.xi.28.
nified by the Spirit, that there should be
great Dearth thro' all the world, which
came to pass in the days of Claudius
Cafar, it is not Unlikely that this Famine
happen'd only or chiefly in Judea, for
in the next verfe no mention is made of
any Relief fent but to the Brethren in
Judea, and (b) Jofephus fpeaks of a great
B
one
φορήτων Βρετανών διήνεγκαν τὰ ὅπλα! where it is ob
fervable, that the Roman Empire is called the xspurn,
and that Britain, while unconquered, was not look'd upon
as Part of it, but as a diſtinct World.
(a) Of the like Nature is that Expreffion of Joſephus,
which we meet with in his Antiq. Book 1. ch. 19. where,
introducing God as promifing the Land of Canaan to
Jacob's Pofterity, he makes him fay, i rangú.807 mãœav,
ὅσον ολισ ίρα, ή γιν καὶ θάλατταν.
(6) Ἐπὶ τέτοις δὲ καὶ τὸν μέγαν λιμὲν κατὰ τὴν Ιεδαίαν
ouvien zerédas. Antiq. Jud. 1. 20. c. 4.
18
A Sermon before the Society
one raging there in the Reign of Claudius,
without taking any Notice of its being
felt elfe-where: this however is remarka-
ble, that the Difciples at Antioch, who
Ver. 29. are ſaid to have determin'd every Man
according to his Ability to fend Relief
unto the Brethren in Judea, feem not to
have look'd upon their Country as any
Part of all that World, which was to la-
bour under the Calamity.
1
And however General St. Paul's Ex-
preffion may appear, when he fays that
the Gospel was preached unto every Crea-
ture under Heaven, yet there is no need
to underſtand it as unlimited by any Ex-
ception; for in Act. ii. 5. it is faid in as
Comprehenſive terms that there were
dwelling (or rather fojourning) at Ferufalem
devout Men, out of every Nation under
Heaven: and yet that there were no Ame-
ricans there, we may be Sure for very
obvious Reaſons.
It is well known from Scripture, that
the Goſpel by the Miniſtry of the Apoſtles
ſpread it felf very widely; and there is
no doubt, but that in moft Parts of the
Roman Empire, perhaps in fome Coun-
tries beyond the Extent of it, the Doctrine
of
for Propagation of the Goſpel,&c. 19
}
of Christ was carried by Them or their
Contemporaries: But that there was no
Creature, or even Nation under Heaven
(ftrictly speaking,) where it was Unheard
of, when St. Paul wrote to the Coloffians,
feems refuted by the two following Obfer-
vations. The one, that after this Epiſtle
to the Coloffians was written, St. Paul
recover'd his Liberty, and ſpent four
Years in the farther work of his Miniſtry:
and can we fuppofe that he made no New
Converts, made his firſt Viſit to no Nation
during all that time? It is fcarcely pro-
bable; and the Ancients generally believ-
ed, on the contrary, that he Then firſt pro-
pagated the Chriftian Faith in the Iſland
of Crete, if not in Spain and other We-
ſtern Parts of Europe. The other Obſer-
vation is drawn from what St. John fays
in Revel. xiv. 6. 1 faw another Angel fly
in the midst of Heaven, having the ever-
lafting Gospel, to preach unto them that
dwell on the Earth, to every Nation and
Kindred, and Tongue and People. If the
Angel was Then to preach it to them, it
feems that it was not done, when he
wrote his Revelations, and therefore when
all the Apoſtles (except Himfelf) were
dead,
B 2
20
६
A Sermon before the Society:
dead, and moſt probably after the End of
the Jewiſh State was come.
2. IT may be confider'd further, that
the Nature of the thing and its Circum-
ftances make ſtrongly againſt this Noti-
on: It is highly Improbable, that even
Infpired and Gifted Men, as the Apoſtles
were, could do fo much Work Well in fo
fhort a time: But (what is more) if all
Parts of the World without Reſtriction,
even this newly difcovered Country of
America, had the Light of the Goſpel
Then convey'd to them, fo many Difficul-
ties will follow this Affertion, as would
make a wife Man very backward in
maintaining it; For how could the Apoſtles
get thither? By Sea or by Land? Either
way there was Then no known Intercourfe
between the Old and the New World: ---
But what is not poffible to Men, who
carry Miracles in their Hands? It is true,
that many Ways may be fuppos'd, which
a Divine Power could make Practicable
and Eafy: but (to omit all other Queſti-
ons) it may be asked, Why, when the
Apoſtles had by a fupernatural Aſſiſtance
found out this Unknown World, and had
once preached the Chriſtian Faith amor g
thofe
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 21
1
मे
+
thoſe Infidels, they did not upon their
Return diſcover this. their Diſcovery?
Why did they make a Secret of their
Journey, and thereby for Ages together,
and (as far as perhaps they knew) for
ever cut off from them all farther Affi-
ftance of the Churches, which they
founded in the Old World? If they
had been careful to make a Report of
what they had feen, and had pointed
out the fituation of the Country, other
Chriſtians might have followed them
to carry
carry on their happy beginnings,
and a Union of Faith might have been
maintain'd by means
by means of this ſeaſon-
able Correſpondence: But I fhall pur-
fue this Reflection no farther, it ſpeaks
fufficiently of it felf: and therefore both
from Scripture and the Nature of the
thing it may be concluded, that tho'
much was done by the Apoſtles, yet much
was left by them Undone, and ſtill re-
mains fo, towards Accompliſhing the Pro-
phecies of the Old Teftament, and carry-
ing the Knowledge of the Gofpel through-
out all the World.
Tho',
B 3
22
A Sermon before the Society
Tho', after all, let it be thought never
fo Certain, that the Name of Chrift has
been actually preached to every Kingdom
and to every Creature under Heaven; yet
it will remain a Truth, that the Deſign of
Providence has not been hitherto effected;
becauſe the Prophecies foretell that the
Goſpel is not only to be preached, but to
be receiv'd and believed every where;
the Earth is to be full of the Knowledge
of the Lord, and Incenſe with a pure Of-
fering is to Offer'd up to him in every
Place.
I come therefore to the
III. THIRD and laſt head, which is
indeed a Confequence of the two for-
mer, viz. that fince we know what
the Deſign of GoD is, and that it has
not yet been accompliſhed, it is every
Chriſtian's Duty to forward the Work,
and contribute towards it according
to his Ability. The Confequence St.
A&t xiii. Paul himſelf has drawn, when he
46, 47. faid, Lo! we turn
the Gen-
tiles, for thus hath the Lord command-
ed us, faying, I have fet thee to be a
to
Light
1
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 23
Light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldeft
be for Salvation unto the end of the
Earth: where you may obferve, that he
calls the Prediction a Command to him
and other Chriftians, that they ſhould do
what they could for the accompliſhment
of it: And if it have the Force of a Com-
mand from GOD, it muſt be the Duty of a
Chriſtian to perform it; for what is our
Duty, but to do what we know to be the
Will of GOD? When the Deſigns of
Heaven are reveal'd, and the Matter of
them is ſuch as Human means can concur
and affiſt in, how can our Obedience be
ſhewn, unleſs we are willing and ready to
forward the Work?
BESIDES, to fpread the Knowledge of
the Gofpel, is to promote the Glory
and Honour of GOD; and furely our
Love of his Service is a very Cool one,
if, when we know that the bringing Ido-
laters into the True Worship of him, is
the greateſt Honour that we can do him,
we are backward in that Point, and will
contribute nothing towards the enlarge-
ment of his fpiritual Empire.
B 4
OR
<
24
A Sermon before the Society
1
OR if we confider the Benefits, which
a Nation converted to the true Know-
ledge receives, what a Warmth of Zeal
ſhould we have to do fuch a Good as This
to our Fellow Creatures? Chriſtianity is
not meerly a new Mode and Faſhion of
Divine Worſhip taken up in the Room
of others now antiquated and worn out by
length of Time: It is not only a better
Syftem of Morals, fetting the diſtinction
of Virtue and Vice upon more folid
Foundations, and giving more certain
Hopes and Fears of what is to come: All
this Natural Religion (not corrupted and
perverted) might have done; but all this
is far fhort of what Chriftianity propoſes
to its Followers: It is a New Law or
Covenant pointing out a method to Sin-
ners, whereby their Repentance may be-
come effectual for Pardon with God: The
Burthen of the Goſpel is Salvation to all
men upon their Repentance, provided it be
join'd with Faith in Jefus Chrift; hence
flow the Promiſes of Eternal Life, which
are now held out to Mankind upon This
and no other Condition: And can we
have the Feelings of a Man, and not la-
bour that every one who has the fame
Nature
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 25
Nature with our felves fhould be parta-
kers of the fame Immortal Happineſs?
In a word, can we think our felves good
Chriſtians, unlefs we are ready to affift
towards the Accompliſhment of that De-
fign, which to our Fellow Creatures is
the Salvation of their Souls, and to our
GOD the Increaſe of his Glory?
BUT all this is faid only upon fup-
poſition, that a Door is open'd, and a
High-Way made ſtraight for our Propaga-
ting the Chriſtian Faith; and this natural-
ly leads our Thoughts to the Buſineſs of
the Honourable Society here affembled
this Day.
It is well known to be a Body of men
incorporated by Royal Charter, not only
to fupply our Colonies and Settlements
on the American Continent with Able and
Orthodox Paſtors; but to propagate and
ſpread the Knowledge of the Goſpel,
where it never has been
has been heard
heard of;
among the Negroes in poffeffion of our
own Countrymen, and among the Indians
who live in their Neighbourhood.
1
How Faithfully and Prudently the
Fund is manag'd by the Worthy Members
of this Society; and how great their
{
Care
26 +
A Sermon before the Society
Care is to look after every Branch of
the Miffion, may be known from the Ac-
counts yearly publish'd by their Order:
where you may fee, that the Good Work
goes on, tho' not ſo faſt as the warmeſt
Chriſtian's Zeal would make him wifh,
yet with fuch Succefs as would make the
Cooleſt Chriſtian not faint and be weary
of his well-doing.
It is obfervable, that this fo lately dif
cover'd World lies in the very Route and
Road, which Chriſtianity ſeems to have all
along taken: in the Eaft, we know, it firft
appear'd; and, as it fpread it felf, it fha-
ped its Courſe with that of the Sun, the
Emblem of its Light and Glory: to the
Weftward it travell'd, and in length of
time took poffeffion of thoſe European
Countries, which are now called Chriften-
dom; and ever fince this more Weſtern
Tract of America has been known, it has
continued by degrees to gain ground, and
enlarge its limits on that fpacious Conti-
nent: which feems to be no obfcure Indi-
cation that the Deſigns of Providence and
of this Society go on together, and that
in the Decrees of Heaven this new Way
was not open'd for the fake of that Tem-
poral
for Propagation of the Gofpel,&c. 27
1
poral Profit which the European Nations
have made of it, but for the Spiritual Ad-
vantage which its Inhabitants may make’
of it.
BUT it may be asked, How we know
that This is the Time for the Converfion of
the Americans? The Precife Time indeed
we know not; but then we can't tell, but
that this may be the Time appointed of
Gód: all the Circumftances feem to fa-
vour it; and whatever the Event may be,
yet we are fure of this, that we are la-
bouring to bring about the Defigns of
Heaven; we know that this Time will
come, and, for ought we know, this day
of the Lord may be now at hand.-But
why ſhould we fet upfor the Inſtruments
of it, when we have received no Com-
mand? why ſhould we run before we are
fent? Becauſe no Chriſtian can doubt of
this, that tho' his Work may be without
fuccefs among thofe Infidels, to Himſelf it
cannot fail of a Reward. We are not
now a days to fit ftill, till a Revelation
be brought to us; GOD has for many
Ages paft made ufe of the Voluntary, or
at leaſt the ſeemingly Voluntary fervice of
Men; and This, with his Bleffing upon it,
has
28
A Sermon before the Society
has in Fact prov'd fufficient for the Con-
verfion of many, Nations, our Own here
in particular; why Then may it not for
the Converfion of Thefe ?
BUT where are the Miracles of our
Miffionaries, their Credentials, the Proofs
of their Veracity? It is true indeed, that
fuch as go out from among us for this
Work, are not Gifted, as the Apoſtles
and firft Chriftians were: but then neither
does God nor Man expect fuch a Glaring
and furprizing Succefs from them: If they
have no Miracles to accompany them, yet
they may with John the Baptift (who
was likewife without that Power) prepare
the way for the Reception of the Goſpel:
And Miracles perhaps are not fo much
wanted now, as they once were in the
Infancy of the Gofpel; for we have many
ftrong Arguments to offer, much Evidence
to produce in favour of Chriftianity,
which the firſt Age had not, and could not
have. But is it Certain, that there are
no Miracles wrought, where none are
wrought to the Senfes? tho' God may
not work Miracles by the Hands of thofe
who Teach, He may upon the Hearts of
thoſe who Hear: the Conviction of theſe
) 7
may
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 29
may be the Effect of a Divine Power, tho'
not any Outward Evidence of it: and in
this Silent and lefs Pompous way of open-
ing the Underſtanding, and inclining the
Will to know and practiſe the Doctrine,
• GOD may perhaps ftill work Miracles,
and effectually enable thoſe to be Power-
ful Preachers, who as to any viſible Gifts
of the Holy Spirit come Empty-handed.
IF it be ſtill farther objected, That we
have Infidels enough among us Here, to
employ all our Pains about for their Con-
verfion; and that, like Able Generals, we
ſhould firſt make fure of all at Home, be-
fore we attempt to carry our Conqueſts
into Foreign Countries: we muſt anſwer
that there is too much Truth in what is
afferted, but no good Confequence in
what is drawn from it; becauſe the One
Work may well go on confiftently with
the Other; All that we pretend to do A-
broad, is what we always have done at
Home; lay the Evidence for our Faith be-
fore Unbelievers in the ſtrongeſt and ful-
left Light we can; if they will not be con-
vinc'd by our Reafonings, we have no
other methods to try; the Arts of Decei-
ving
30
A Sermon before the Society
1
ving we have no Need of, and the Ufe of
Force and Violence we abhor...
¿
BUT ftill the Generality of Men may
ask, How They can further this Defign
of Providence, who are not furniſhed
with Knowledge either to Teach, or to
chooſe out proper Teachers? Yet all may
affift and take a fhare in the Work, by
contributing towards the Support of it,
and gladly throwing fomething into the
Stock, which the Society is impower'd to
manage, and out of which the great Ex-
pences are defray'd. Much help is ftill
wanting, large fupplies are ftill Neceffary;
the Undertaking being fo Great, and the
Progrefs made in it fo fmall in compari-
fon of what remains Undone: And what
can You do Better, you that love to do
Good? where can your Bounty be better
plac'd, either in regard to the End pro-
pos'd, or the Means made ufe of? It is
only by the Affiftance of the Rich and
the Charitable that the ſphere of the Soci-
ety's Care can be enlarg'd, and that Men
of more Virtue and Piety, of more
Learning and Prudence can be encoura-
ged to go on the Miffion, when they fee
that ſuch a Liberal Proviſion is made for
their
for Propagation of the Goſpel,&c. 31
their Refidence in thofe Countries, as
may weigh againſt the Inclination, which
all naturally have to fettle, where they
took their Birth and have their Acquain-
tance.
In the Name then of all the Members
of this Worthy and Venerable Society,
and as their Reprefentative on this Occa-
fion, I call upon and invite all good Chri-
ſtians to take the Intereſts of it to heart,
and to lend their Charitable (where they
are Able, their Bountiful) hand towards
its Support. All the common Topicks,
us'd for the perfwading Men to do Good
to their Fellow Creatures, are fo ſtrong in
this Cafe, that they feem made for it,
I had almoſt ſaid, appropriated to it: But
I forbear to infift upon them at prefent;
That has been already done by fo many,
that have gone before me, with fo much
Copioufnefs, as fhews that the Motives to
Charity are a Subject, which, like Charity
it felf, never faileth. -But your Pati-
ence may.
LET US therefore conclude with retur-
ning our hearty thanks to GOD for the
Benefactions towards this Work, which
we have received the laft Year; and
with
32
A Sermon before the Society,&c
}
?
with beſeeching him to continue to put it
into the Hearts of the Wealthy, that
they would fend in their Free-will Offe-
rings, and that we may be thereby
ſtrengthen❜d to enlarge the Kingdom of his
Son Jefus; to whom with the Father and
the Holy Ghoſt be all Glory and Honour
afcrib'd in every Nation under Heaven.
>
FINI S.
*
1
Want of Univerfality no juft Objection to the
Truth of the Chriſtian Religion.
A
SERMON
$
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE ·
Pariſh-Church of St Mary-le-Bow,
On Friday the 19th of February, 1730.
By JOHN DENNE, D. D.
Archdeacon of Rochester.
LOND O`N,
Printed by J. DOWNING, in Bartholomew-Clofe,
near West-Smithfield, 1730.
५
February 19. 1730.
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the Society
for the Propagation of the Goſpel in
Foreign Parts.
A
GREED, That the Thanks of
the SOCIETY be given to the
Reverend Mr. Archdeacon Denne,
for his Sermon Preached this Day before
the SOCIETY: And that he be de-
fired to Print the fame.*
David Humphreys,
}
I
Secretary.
2
3
MARK XVI. 15.
And be faid unto them, Go ye into
all the World, and preach the
Goſpel to every Creature.
HESE Words are a principal
part of the Commiffion, which
our bleffed Saviour gave to
his Apoftles, to publiſh a Re-
velation throughout the World,
which he had already prov'd to be Divine,
by its intrinfic Excellency, the Accompliſh-
ment of Prophecies, a Life of Miracles,
and his own Refurrection from the Dead:
However, for fear that they, who before
his Crucifixion had one and all for fook him Mat xxvi.
and fled, and would not afterwards, thro'
Unbelief, and Hardness of Heart (ver. 14.)
believe even them, which had feen him after
A 2
be
56
1
4
A Sermon before the Society
he was rifen; for fear, I fay, fuch (a) choice
Confederates and Accomplices fhould go on
to reſiſt theſe reaſonable Means of Con-
viction, or ſhould defpair of executing a
Commiffion, that muſt have appeared moft
dangerous, if not impoffible, in human
View, he affures them, that if they would
but (b) wait a few Days, till he ſhould be
carried up into Heaven before their Eyes,
in a Cloud of Glory, and with a Retinue
of Angels, he would then vouchſafe them
a Demonſtration to their Senfes, as well as
Reaſon, of that Almighty (c) Power, which
was to be given unto him in Heaven and in
Earth; for they themſelves ſhould be fo far
endued with it, as that (d) theſe Signs ſhould
follow them; they fhould in his Name caft
out Devils, they ſhould speak with new
Tongues, they should take up Serpents, and
if they drank any deadly Thing, it should
not hurt them; they fhould lay Hands on
the Sick, and they fhould recover. In Obe-
dience therefore to fuch an Authority and
Power, the Apoſtles (e) went forth, and
preached every where, as they had Oppor-
tunity,
(a) Woolfton's Moderator, p. 51. (b) Acts i. 4, &c. Luke
xxiv. 49, &c. (c) Matt. xxviii. 18. (d) Mark xvi. 17, 18.
(e) Ver. 20. Acts xiv. 3. Heb. ii. 4.
}
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 5
tunity, the Lord working with them, and
confirming the Word of his Grace, with
Signs and Wonders, and with divers Mira-
cles, and Gifts of the Holy Ghoſt. This is
a plain and ſhort Account of the Riſe and
Progrefs of the Chriftian Religion and fure
the moſt prejudiced againſt it can in Rea-
fon defire nothing more free from any
poffible Sufpicion of Enthuſiaſm, Fraud,
or Impoſture.
IT is needlefs for me to criticife on the
Text, fince every careful Reader of the
New Teftament will eaſily diſcern from (a)
parallel Places, as well as the (b) Jewish
Phrafeology, that every Creature does mean
Men only and that the Command here
given, did authorize, and require the A-
poftles (who had hitherto been confined
(c) to the loft Sheep of the Houſe of Ifrael)
to go and preach the everlasting Gospel of
the Kingdom of Heaven, not only in Jeru-
falem, Judæa, and Samaria, but unto all
that
(a) Matt. xxviii. 19. Luke xxiv. 47. Acts i. 8. Rom. viii.
21, 22. Colof. i. 6, 23. Rev. xiv. 6. (b) Phrafilogia Judæis
tritijima, per quam omnes homines denotantur, maxime hi qui
Ifraelitæ non funt. Lamy Comment. in Harmon. Evang. p. 631.
Grotius in locum.---The Engliſh Reader may have all the Satis-
faction he can want, by confulting Dr. Hammond on the Place,
and Dr. Lightfoot's Works, Vol. I. p. 272. (c) Mat, x. 6.
6.
A Sermon before the Society
that dwell on the Earth, and to every Nation
and Kindred, and Tongue, and People, unto
the uttermoft Part of the Earth.
THE Words then, which I have chofen
for a Text, will afford me a Subject moſt
ſuitable to the prefent Occafion of our Af-
ſembling in the Houſe of God, as they
clearly lead me,
I. To fhew, That the Gospel of Christ,
is in its Nature and Defign fitted for
the Uſe and Benefit of all Mankind
without Exception, to whom it fhall
be revealed and preached. And Se-
condly,
II. THAT the Promulgation of it, al-
tho' in Fact not univerfal, may be
reconciled with the Wiſdom, Justice,
and Goodneſs of God; and is no real
Objection to its Divine Authority.
And then,
4.4)
III. and lastly, To prefs upon all Chri-
ftians the different Obligations they lie
under at this Day, according to their
reſpective Opportunities and Abilities,
to make it known to all Nations for the
Obedience of Faith.
I. First,
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 7
I. First, I am to fhew, That the Gospel
of Chrift is in its Nature and Defign fitted
for the Ufe and Benefit of all Mankind
without Exception, to whom it fhall be
revealed and preached. And of this there
can be no doubt, if we confider how it
once did, and may at all Times (a) reſtore
the Knowledge of the one true God, and
free his Worshippers from the numerous
Errors and Abominations of Idolatry and
Superſtition, and then engage them to obey,
love, and imitate him --- How it reconciles
all repenting Sinners unto their offended
Creator, in a Method that could never en-
ter into the Heart of Man, but yet appears
moft confiftent with the Holinefs, Juftice,
and Mercy of God, with the Wifdom, Au-
thority and Honour of his Providential
Government, and with his irreconcileable
Hatred
(a) The Author of Chriftianity as old as the Creation acknow-
ledges it to be true in Fact, that the Ragan World ran into Ido-
latry; and that the Buſineſs of the Chriſtian Diſpenſation was to
reftore the true, primitive and natural Religion.--He ought in ju-
ftice to have added, that it did this most effectually, wherever it was
preached; altho the Light of Nature (clear and shining as be
would have it, and without any Defect) had not before difperfed
the grofs Darkness of Idolatry, nor deftroyed thofe traditional
Revelations, which Pagan Priests impofed upon all People as
Divine Oracles, notwithstanding the true primitive, and natu-
ral Religion, was (according to hisPhilofophy of innate Principles)
implanted in Mankind from the Creation, P. 379.
8
A Sermon before the Society
Hatred to Sin---How it teaches, commands,
and enables Men to escape the Corruption
that is in the World thro' Luft, thro' in-
veterate Prejudices, falfe Reaſonings, evil
Cuſtoms, and debauched Examples ---How
it eſtabliſhes upon immoveable Foundations
univerſal Benevolence, which is the Ce-
ment of Civil Society, and makes it an in-
difpenfible Duty for us to extend our
Love, Goodneſs and Charity to all our
Fellow-Creatures, in like manner as God
and Christ have loved us. How it renews
and heightens all the Obligations and Mo-
tives of natural Religion and Morality,
and even adds to theſe ſuch as are ſtronger,
fuch as Divine Wiſdom only could. con-
trive, and Divine Power inforce with a
Sanction of Rewards and Puniſhments, as
lafting as our Souls. And indeed every
Article of Chriftian Faith, every Doctrine
and poſitive Inſtitution of the Goſpel, has an
evident Tendency, and a real Fitneſs to im-
prove, exalt, and perfect finful Men, and to
procure for them (a) Happineſs during the
Extent of their being; Happiness in this,
and Happiness in a future State, which
every ſerious and confidering Deift ought
to have in View.
FROM
(a) Lit. Scheme, 12°. p. 406.
-
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 9
FROM theſe Confiderations, I ſay, as well
as from many (a) expreſs Texts of Scripture,
that might here be urged, it muſt be plain,
that the Gospel of Christ is in its own Na-
ture fit to be a Law to all Mankind:
and that the Love of God in him, is not
confined to any Family, Nation, or Coun-
try, but every Son of Adam
Son of Adam may and ought
to enter into the Chriftian Covenant by
Faith, Repentance, and Baptiſm, whenever
Providence does vouchſafe him the Blef-
fing of an Opportunity.---It was no Que-
ftion the Will of God, that all Men,, Tim. ii,
Jews, and Gentiles, (for there is now no Dif-
ference between them) ſhould be ſaved, and
come to the Knowledge of the Truth: and
purſuant to this Will, our Bleffed Savi-
our did give a Commiffion to his Apo-
files, to go into all the World, to preach the
Gospel to every Creature, and to make Dif
ciples of all Nations, baptizing them in
-the Name of the Father, and of the Son,
and of the Holy Ghoſt.
AND wonderful beyond Belief or Ima-
gination was the Extent of their Travels,
B
and
}
4.
it
;
(a) Matt. xxviii. 19. Luke xxiv. 47. Febri. 12.---iii. 16,
17.---X. 9.--- Alts x. 34---Rom. x. 12, 13.---Gal. iii. 7, 8.---
Rev. v. 9.---xiv. 6.
10A Sermon before the Society
and the Number of their Converts, unless
we do fuppofe them to have been endued
with Zeal, Courage, and Power from on
high, and to have confirmed the Doctrine
they taught with aSeries of Miracles, and divers
Gifts of the Holy Ghoft, efpecially that abfo-
lutely neceffary one of fpeaking all Langua-
ges. -For by their Means the Chriftian Reve-
lation fpread its Victories and Triumphs far
beyond the wideExtent of the Roman Empire,
over all other Religions, tho' ancient and
eſtabliſhed.--- It did indeed in no refpect
more reſemble the heavenly Light, (a)than in
that unconceiveable Swiftnefs, wherein it is
darted, as in a Moment, to the uttermoft
Parts of the Earth, and fhineth all at once
from under one End of Heaven to the other;
fo that in all Probability had Chriftians in
fucceeding Ages. had the fame Concern and
Zeal for their Religion, had they done
their Duty, and every where promoted it.
according to the exprefs Command of
Rev.xi. 15. their Maſter; the Kingdoms of this Wordd
now would
}
(a) Eufebius feems to relate a plain matter of Fact, thơ' in
figurative Language, when he tells us how the Chriſtian Reli-
gion was difperfed thro' the World, Oura Jura sjaviç
δυνάμει, και συνεργία, αθρόως οἷα τις ἡλίο βολή, τὴν
σύμπασαν οικεμένην ὁ σωτήρια κατήυγαζε λόγω Ecclef.
Hift. Lib. II. c. 3.
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 11
+
would have long fince become, if not
continued, what they certainly will be, the
Kingdoms of our Lord and of his Chrift,
who shall reign for ever and ever. ---
•
THE Gift of Tongues, it is true, ceafed after
fome Time, as did the Power of working
Miracles: (a) but they fubfifted, as long
as they were neceffary in the Reaſon of the
Thing, that is, till the Civil Powers began
to declare openly in Favour of Chriſtianity,
and had eſtabliſhed it by Law: and then
one would think it could fcarce fail to
thrive and flourish, whilst it met with all
manner of temporal Encouragements un-
der the Roman Empire, till in the ordinary
Courfe of Providence, and by human
Means, it hould by degrees fpread itſelf
farther and farther into all the World.---And
is God to blame for not governing reafon-
able and fit Agents from that Time, even
unto the End of the World, by extraordinary
and miraculous Interpofitions of his over-
ruling Power ?--Is it not enough to ju-
ftifie him, and the Religion he revealed,
from
:
B 2
(a) I must refer to an excellent Sermon published by Bishop
Bradford, as an Appendix to his Boyle's Lectures, that the
Reader may have the fullest Satisfa&tion upon this Subject: and
know how much I am indebted to his Lordship for what I have
jaid upon it throughout this Difcourfi.
12
A Sermon before the Society
from the Charge of Impofture, that he put
the Support and publiſhing of it into the
Hands of proper and intermediate Agents,
making Men to be Inftructors one of an-
other, and engaging them to do this Duty
by all poffible Obligations, as well as ex-
prefs Promiſes of his Affiftance and Re-
ward? So that" if the Gofpel be not pub-
"lifhed to the World univerfally, it pro-
"ceeds not from any Defect in the Pro-
"vifion, which God hath made to that
<<
(c
purpoſe; but from the Fault of thoſe,
to whom fo great a Truft has been
"committed."---Deifts might as well ob-
ject (and ſo I believe they would, was Chri-
ſtianity aboliſhed) to the Being or Good-
neſs of God, for not preferving the true,
primitive, and natural Religion, pure and
perfect in every Place, by Miracle, and
hindering Men from fuch an Abuſe of
Reaſon, as was the Occafion of their own,
and others (a) falling into, and continuing,
from Age to Age, in a deplorable State
of Ignorance, Idolatry, and Corruption, un-
lefs this be the very State God defigned they
fhould be in; for both Means and Ends, are
entirely in his Power.---And what then? we
ought
(a) Chriftianity as old, &c. p. 196, 375, 378, 393, 399.
•
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 13
ought in Reaſon to expect no more of him,
than that he do make Ufe of the moſt na-
tural, and reaſonable Means to any End;
and if thoſe Means become infufficient for
that End, and miſcarry in the Event, thro' the
Fault of free and moral Agents, the Blame
muſt reſt on them, and not on him. The
Inftruments (a) alone of conveying ordi-
nary or extraordinary Affiftances, fufficient
in themſelves for the purpose of continuing,
or replacing Men in a State fuitable to the
original Dignity and Excellency of their Na-
turę, are inexcufable, if they do not what
they ought, and thus fruftrate Reafon or
Revelation of their intended Effects. (6)
THIS is the very Cafe of the Chriftian Reve-
lation, for History affures us that Chriftians,
after its firſt Eſtabliſhment, did not confider
the Nature, or Value of the Treaſure com-
mitted to their Truft, nor how they might
have enrich'd the unbelieving World with-
out
(a) P. 401, 402. (b) The judicious Dr. Barrow fets this
Way of reasoning in the clearest Light, God's Intentions, Says
be, are not to be interpreted, nor his Performances eſtimated
by Events, depending on the Contingency of human Actions,
but by his own Declarations and Precepts, together with the
ordinary provifion of competent Means, in their own Nature
fufficient to produce thofe Effects, which he declares himſelf to
intend or to perform. Barrow's Works, Vol. III. p. 334.
After which he applies this general Obfervation to the particu-
lar Cafe of the promulgation of the Gospel,
14 A Sermon before the Society
out miraculous Affiftances: Iniquity foon
abounded, and Zeal for true Religion waxed
cold; the Gospel of Peace was itſelf turn'd~
into an Occafion of Hatred and Violence,
and the Profeffors of it broke into Sects
and Parties, each of them cenfuring, re-
viling, and damning one another; to that
tho' they retained the Form of Godliness,
the Power of it was loft in their Tem-
pers and Practices; nay, the very Name
and Principles of Chriftianity were proſti-
tuted to thoſe bafe and wicked Purpoſes,
which furnish Infidels at this Day with
their choiceft Weapons to attack it.-The
2 Cor. iv. God of this World blinded their Minds, left
the Light of the glorious Gospel of Christ,
who is the Image of God, fhould fine unto
them; Revelation was spoiled at first, thro'
the Subtleties and Refinements of Phi-
1 Tim. iv. loſophy, of Science falfely fo called, and of
vain Deceit, after the Traditions of Men,
after the Rudiments of the World, and
not after Cbrift; and then a covetous,
an ambitious, and a worldly Spirit,
ſtopped its Progrefs, and opened the
Way to Mahometism and Popery, to
idolatrous, a corrupt,
Christianity. So that
4.
Col. ii. 8.
20.
· ·
to an
and a fuperftitious
ނ
tho' the Gospel have
left many Countries, which it once pof
feffed,
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 15
1
feffed, and was never published univerfally
to the World, yet this proceeds not from
any Defect in the Provifion which God
hath made to theſe purpoſes, but from the
Vices and Faults of thofe, to whom fo
great a Truſt has been committed; instead
therefore of cavilling at the Divine Provi-
dence, or our Religion, on this Account, it
becomes us to fix the Miſcarriage of the
Event, where it really ought to be, and do
our Part in the Age we live in, to main-
tain, and promote the Interefts of Chri-
stianity, pure and perfect as we find it in
the Scriptures.
WHAT I have now faid is in the main
a fufficient Reply to thoſe Objections, I
am going to mention, which are founded
on this Fact, that the Progrefs of the Gof-
pel has been in no Degree equal to its
wonderful Beginnings. It is asked, and
the (a) Infidel will tell us, that we muſt
anſwer at the Peril of our Religion,
"if
"God defigned the gracious Terms of the
"Gospel for univerſal Ufe and Benefit, why
"then doth he difpenfe the Knowledge of
them moft unequally?
general and large a Deſign confiſt with fo
How can fo
<< par-
(a) Blount's Mifcell. Works, p. 198, 210.
16
A Sermon before the Society
1
<<
particular, and ſparing an Execution of
"it? If the Sun of Righteousness be riſen,
<<
why doth Darkness ſtill cover the Earth,
" and grofs Darkness many People? (a) If
"the Defign of God in communicating any
cc
6.
<c
thing of himſelf to Man, was their Hap-
pinefs; would not that Defign have
oblig'd him, who at all Times alike,
"defires their Happineſs, to have at all
"Times, and in all Places, alike commu-
"nicated it to them? If God always acts
"for the Good of his Creatures, what
"Reaſon can be affigned, why he ſhould
CC
not, from the Beginning, have diſcover'd
"fuch Things, as make for their Good;
"but defer the doing of it till the Time
" of Tiberius? fince the fooner this was
"done, the greater his Goodneſs would ap-
CC
<<
pear to be; and even then he did it moſt
partially and ineffectually. (b) How is
"it confiftent with the Notion of God's
"being the Governor of the Univerfe, and
no respecter of Perfons, but univerfally
"benevolent, and the common Parent of
"Mankind, not to have revealed the Gof
6c
pel to all his Children, fince all have
66.
equal
(a) Chriftianity as old, &c. p. 20, 64, 393, 401.
(b) p.196, 401, 409.
(8) Chob, 401,
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 17.
"equal Need of it? In what View fo-
"C
ever we confider a Revelation, be it as
"abfolutely neceffary, or only as very uſe-
"ful to Mankind, (a) if God acts upon
"rational Motives, must not the fame Mo-
"tives which oblig'd him to diſcover any
thing that's for the Good of Mankind,
have oblig'd him to diſcover every
thing that is ſo ; and that too, not as it
"were grudgingly, little by little, here a
<<
CC
CC
<<
}
Bit, and there a Bit, and that not to one
"Favourite Nation only, under the Veil
" of Types, Allegories, &c. and at laſt,
"tho' he difcovered fome Things more
plainly, yet it was but to a ſmall Part
of Mankind, the Bulk of them to. this
Day remaining in deplorable Ignorance?
"In fhort, fince the (b) Univerfality of a
"Law is the only certain Mark of its
''
<<
cc
coming from the Governor of Mankind,
"how can we be certain, that which wants
"this Mark, comes from him?” Chrifti-
anity therefore must be falfe, unless it be
in modern Phrafe as old, and as extensive as
the Creation: And (c) all Arguments from
the Neceffities of Mankind, and the abun-
dant Goodness of God, will equally prove, that
this
•
C
(a) Pag. 393. (b) p. 197. (c) P. 4, 401.
18 A Sermon before the Society
this Revelation, did it teach a new Religion,
fhould be univerfal, as that it should be at
all; and to fuppofe otherwife, is to make
God himfelf a cruel and unmerciful Being,
fince he cannot be denominated merciful
and good, who is fo only to a few, and not
alike fo to all Mankind.
UPON thefe Objections, a late Adverfary
of Chriftianity lays the greatest Weight,
as another before him defired (a) that the
whole Streſs of the Dispute fhould be ter-
minated in this one Point of Univerfality:
And that I might not give Occafion to
Cenfure or Complaint, I have concealed
nothing of their Strength, but hope to
take away the Force of it, by fhewing,
1.
¿
>
11-
Secondly, That the Promulgation of the
Gospel, altho' in Fact not univerfal, may
be reconciled with the Wisdom, Justice,
and Goodness of God and is no real Ob-
jection to its Divine Authority.
?
As to the Wisdom of God. What better
Proof can we have of its being infinite,
than an infinite Variety of Creatures, whe-
ther of the fame, or different Species, all
differing from each other, more or leſs, in
their natural Frame, Capacities, and Pow-
ers;
(a) Blount's Mifcell. Works, p. 198, 210.
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 19
ers; and confequently in their Perfection
and Happiness? This feems indeed necef-
fary to the Order and Beauty of the Uni-
verſe; and accordingly we fee it to be
full of Variety and Choice; there is one
Glory of the Sun, and another Glory of
the Moon, and another Glory of the Stars:
And if we turn our Eyes from the Hoft of
Heaven, down upon the Earth we inhabit,
into how curious a Diverfity of Work-
manship, is dead and fenfelefs Matter
wrought? Why thus it may be in
the animate Creation: and the Wisdom of
the Creator may diſplay itſelf in com-
municating all Degrees of Life, and all
poffible Differences and Varieties of Be-
ing; even as it is in Fact in this World,
which fwarms with Myriads of Animals,
all perfect in their Kind, but diverſified by
their Shape and natural Powers. The fame
Analogy therefore of reaſoning, and of (a)
Nature, will lead us to conclude, that in
the intellectual World, there may be, and
probably are, innumerable Kinds, Orders,
and Degrees of nobler Beings rifing one
above another in their natural States, Pow-
-ers, and Conftitutions, unto the higheſt
De-
C 2
(a) Locke's Eſſay, p. 381. 564.
1 Cor. XV.
41.
20 A Sermon before the Society
Degrees of communicable Perfection, and
Happineſs, tho' at laft falling infinitely
fhort of the God and Father of all Spirits.
-It will, I hope, be no Objection to this
Truth, that we are certainly affured of it
by Revelation, and that we read in Scri-
pture, of Angels and Archangels, Thrones
and Dominions, Principalities and Powers;
fome of whom (as they are all at Liberty
to uſe, or to abuſe the Gifts of God)
Jude 20. kept not their first Eftate, but left their
2 Pet. ii. own Habitation, and are reſerved by divine
Wiſdom and Juftice in everlafting Chains
under Darkness, unto the Judgment of the
great Day. Why may not then the fame
wife Rules of Creation and Providence
extend to human Race? Why (as the Son
4.
of Sirach obferves), may not the Lord
Eccluf. in much Knowledge divide Men, and make
xxxiii.11, their Ways diverſe; for as the Clay is in
13. the Potter's Hand to faſhion it at his Plea-
fure; fo Man is in the Hand of him that
made him, to render to them as liketh him
beſt. He may no doubt in Wiſdom do
as he has done: and as he was not oblig'd
(a) to make Men Angels, fo neither is he
oblig❜d to endue all Men, tho' of the fame
(a) Dr. Clark's Boyle's Lect. 2 Vol. p. 262.
Spe-
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 21
Species, with all the fame natural Capa-
cities and Faculties. - He may make Indi-
viduals, as he has done Species, more or
leſs perfect as he will, and more or leſs
capable of the very fame Kind and De-
gree of Happineſs; nor need he in the
Courſe of Providence, afford to all of them
the very fame Means and Opportunities of
obtaining it.—(a) In that part of the great
Series of Beings, wherein we are placed,
the Defcent from Step to Step may be fo
eafie, as that a Difference between them
can ſcarce be perceived, tho' if you take
the higheſt and the loweft of our Species,
the Difference will be exceeding great, al-
moſt as much as between the leaft know-
ing Angel, and the moſt fagacious Brute;
and conſequently there muſt be in Nature
and Reafon a very unequal-Share (b) of
Happiness bestowed on this part of the ra-
tional Creation. -And accordingly our
own Experience and Obfervation muft
convince us, that there is in Fact a very
unequal Diſtribution of the good Gifts, and
good Things of this Life; that there are dif-
ferent Tempers and Conftitutions of Body,
dif-
(a) Locke's Effay, p. 381. 564.
(b) Christianity as old, &c. p. 409.
1
122 A Sermon before the Society
different States and Conditions in the World;
and not only fo, (a) but that there is the
wideft Difference in the natural Faculties
of human Souls, and many Degrees of
Latitude in Men's Understandings, Appre-
benfions, and Reafonings: Nay, tho' their
natural Abilities be equal, yet the Circum-
ſtances of their Fortunes, Education, and
Situation in Life, (to which they cannot
be (b) deftin'd but by a wife Providence)
do in Event make as wide a Difference, as
there is originally among others. - No-
thing is more evident, than that God (to
Mat. xxv. fpeak in the Language of a moſt wiſe
15, &c. Parable) intrufts his Servants in this World
with Talents differing both in Number
and Value; that he inftructs them with
very different Degrees of natural Light,
and Knowledge, and makes known even
demonftrable Truths, natural and moral,
not to all Men equally, but in different De-
grees and Propontions. Why therefore
fhould it be thought incredible and un-
reaſonable for him to act alike in the
*
Dif-
(a) Whoever has a Mind to fee more concerning the unequal
Distribution of natural Gifts, and Providential Blessings among
Men, may confult Locke's Efay, p. 280, 596, 598. and the
Religion of Nature delineated, P. 49, 61, 179.
(b) Christianity as old, &c. p. 499. Locke's Effay, p. 41.
for Propagation of the Gofpel,&c. 23
Diſpoſal of ſuper-natural Light and Af-
fiftances, making Revelations of his Will,
to different Nations and Perfons, at fundry
Times, in diverfe Manners, and in different
Degrees and Proportions? fince in all this
there is nothing more, than the free va-
rious Exercife of his Wifdom and Sove
reignty, in dividing to every Man feve-'
rally as he will, without Wrong or Injury
to any. - Why do Deifts make a violent
Outcry againſt partial Revelations, as if
God was on this Account unmerciful and
cruel; whilft they are filent about á no
lefs partial Diftribution of natural Powers
and providential Bleffings, wherein the di-
vine Goodness and the Religion of Naturè
are equally concerned?
*
}
"
4
1 Cor. xii.
a
BUT further, this Diversity in the Di-
ftribution of natural or fupernatural Gifts
(which feems to be a Mark of infinite
Wiſdom, if not (a) neceffary, to make this
World, the moral, as well as natural,
beautiful and well formed System) does not
at all affect the Fuftice or Goodness of the
Deity. It is fufficient, and nothing more
can be required in Right and Reaſon, than
that God, after doing what he will with
}
his
II.
Mat. XX.
15.
(a) Christianity as old, &c. p. 408.`
24 A Sermon before the {
Society
<
his own, and diftributing the free Gifts
already mentioned in what Proportions he
pleafeth, after the Counsel of bis Will,
ſhould in the final Iffue of Things deal
equitably with all his rational' Creatures,
and when he calls them to Account and
Judgment, inquire, without Prejudice or.
Partiality, into the Ufe and Improvements
of the Gifts and Talents, wherewith they.
were reſpectively entruſted, be they more
or lefs, one, two, or five, and then ac-
quit, or condemn every one of them,
according to what they had, and not ac-
cording to what they had not. Nothing
more in impartial Juftice, or in the moſt
extenfivé Equity can be expected from
God, than what the Gofpel affures us of in
Regard to Men, I mean, that he will judge all
of them, whether under the Light of Reaſon
Rom. xii. or Revelation, (a) as they are accountable,
Eph. iv. 7. according to the Measure of the Gift or
Grace that is given to them, according
6.
"
to the moral Uſe of their Liberty, Rea
fon, and other Perfections, natural or fu-
pernatural, in the particular Stations, and
Circumſtances of Being allotted them by
Providence, having a righteous Regard to
(a) -Chriſtianity as old, &c; p. 61, 410.
all
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 25
all kinds of Advantages or Diſadvantages,
requiring only fuch a Degree of moral
Perfection in us, as we are still able to
attain even fince the Fall, and making fuch
favourable Allowances for our Ignorance,
Infirmities, or prefumptuous Sins, as even
infinite Mercy can admit of, confiftently
with the wife and righteous Government
of the Univerſe.
Rom. ii.
THUS for inftance, the Gentile hereto-
fore, and even now, (if he be fo not thro'
his own Default) will be, according to the
Determination of St. Paul, acquitted or
condemned, (in the Day when God fhall
judge the Secrets of Men by Jeſus Chriſt, 6, 16.
according to the Gospel) as he has uſed,
neglected, or abuſed the Abilities and Op-
portunities, which he himſelf had of gain-
ing Knowledge, and of putting that Know-
ledge into Practice: or in other Words,
He fhall be judg'd by the Law of Nature, ver. 12,
which the Pen of Reafon might have writ-
ten in his Heart, his own Confcience bear-
ing Witness, and his own Thoughts the mean
while accufing, or else excufing one another.
The few then, as he was inftructed out
of the Law, and had other Means, befides
the bare Ufe of his Reaſon, to know the
Will of God, and to approve the Things
D
that
16.
ver. 18.
26
A Sermon before the Society
that are more excellent, fhall be arraign-
ed and tried, not only (a) by the Law of
Nature, but of Moſes: And if any Perſon,
either Jew or Gentile, thro' an evil Heart
of Unbelief, or other criminal Motive, have
rejected the Gospel of the Son of God,
when fairly and reafonably propoſed to
him (6), with fufficient Evidence, he ſhall
be finally condemned (c) for the Tranf
greffion and Difobedience of (d) refufing an
exprefs Revelation, for the Sin and Folly
of rejecting the Counsel of God against
himſelf, and for doing defpite to the Spirit
of Grace.
And if the Chriftian, after
Faith and Baptiſm, live not more righ-
teously, foberly, and godly in this prefent
World, in Proportion to the clearer Light,
and the fuperior Affiftances he enjoys, but
dies in a State of Impenitence and pre-
ſumptuous finning; He fhall not escape by
the Mercies of God in Christ Jefus, but be
thought
(a) Our future Happiness depends upon our obeying, or en-
deavouring to fulfil the known Will of God, Blount's Mifcell.
p. 198.
(b) Chriftianity as old, &c. p. 9.
(c) Mark xvi. 16. John iii. 18. xii. 48. The Author of
Christianity as old, &c. feeds to allow, that Man is accountable
for Errors in Opinion, if he has not, according as bis Circumstances
permit, done his beft to discover the Will of God, p. 414.
(d) Heb. ii. 2, &c. x. 29. xii. 25. Luke vii. 30.
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 27
thought worthy of a much forer Punish-
ment.
·
·
I am fpeaking now of Men, as they are
accountable to God their Judge, for the ma-
nifold Gifts of his Grace: and as they ought
to be acquitted or condemned by him for
the good or ill Ufe of them. For as to
Rewards, Justice and Equity feem not ori-
ginally concern'd about them, fince if Men
were upright and perfect, and obeyed the
Laws of God, and the Dictates of their
own Reafon, at all Times, and in eve-
ry Particular, as far as they were able:
They would even then do nothing more
than that which was abfolutely their Duty
to do. They could not therefore have any Luke xvii.
Plea of Right to a Recompence from the
Merit of Services, to which they were o-
blig'd, as reafonable Creatures; but their
Reward muſt flow, as did their Happineſs
in exifting, from the Goodness of their Cre-
ator; or from his Wifdom as their Governor,
in annexing it, as a Sanction moft proper
to fecure the Obedience due unto his Laws,
in this prefent World, where the natural
Order of Things is now fo perverted, as
that all Things come alike to all, and there is
one Event to the Righteous and to the Wic-
ked; fo that we are now to enquire how
D. 2.
far
10.
28
A Sermon before the Society
far the Goodness of God, or his Wifdom, do
oblige him to obferve an exact Equality
in diftributing the Favour of his Gifts, or
the Rewards of Happiness among his Crea-
tures.
Now Goodness is that Perfection of the
Deity, by which all Creatures in the Uni-
verfe were brought into Being, and after-
wards fupported and preferved in it; and
which communicates to all of them, a
Meaſure of natural Good, in Proportion to
their different Capacities and Powers, ari-
fing from that Variety of Natures, which
Shews (a) the great Extent of the Divine Good-
ness, as well as Wiſdom: and to moral
Agents, a further Portion of Happineſs, ac-
cording to their different Improvements,
arifing from the right ufe of their Liber-
ty, Knowledge, Reafon, or other Talents,
in whatſoever Rank or Order of Beings,
in whatſoever State or Circumſtances
it fhall pleaſe God to place them, in the
beautiful and well formed System of the
World. It is enough that every Thing
which God makes, be originally and natu-
rally in its reſpective Kind and Degree
good, and that he make fuch a Provifion
•
of.
(a) Chriftianity as old, &c. p. 408.
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 29
of preſent Happineſs, or future Reward for
every moral Agent, as fhall (a) render Ex-
iſtence an eligible and defireable Bleffing:
or which it is reaſonable, and fit for him
to beſtow in his all-wife Government of
the whole. — If
If this be done, no Creature
can complain with Reaſon of the Arbi-
trariness, the Partiality, and the Cruelty
of God, becauſe he wants certain Faculties,
Excellencies and Privileges which others
enjoy, and by thofe Means differ from him
in Perfection and Glory; for theſe are all
the free Gifts of God, Effects of his good
Pleafure and Bounty, which he is no more
oblig'd to beſtow, than he was to confer
Ex-
(a) To produce a Being into a State of mixt Happiness, can be
no Injury to it, provided the Happinefs certainly overballances
the contrary, and the unhappy or fuffering Part be not greater,
than what that Being would chooſe in order to obtain the Happi-
nefs, or rather than lofe it. Nor again can any Wrong be done
in producing a Being fubject to more Mifery than Happiness, if
that Being bath it in his own Power to avoid the Mifery, or fo
much of it as may leave the remainder of Mifery not greater than
what he would rather fuftain, than mifs the Proportion of Happi-
nefs.-The only Cafe then, by which Wrong can be done in the
Production of any Being is, when it is neceffarily and irreme-
diably to be miſerable, without any Recompence or Balance of Mi-
fery. I have quoted this extraordinary Paffage, out of Mr.
Woolfton's Delineation of the Religion of Nature, that every
fee with how little Reafon God can be denominated
partial and arbitrary, cruel and unmerciful, for vouchfafing to
fome Creatures Means and Opportunities of gaining a higher De-
gree and Kind of Happiness, than he has done to others, Chri-
tianity as old, &c. p. 399, 408, 409.
one may
}
30 Sermon before the Society
Exiſtence itſelf on him, or to make him
an Angel. And as infinite Wiſdom requires
that there fhould be an (a) infinite Variety
of Creatures, infinite Benevolence muſt ob-
ferve the like Rules of Proportion, and
Subordination in the Difpofal of its Gifts,
and confequently there must be an Ine-
quality of Happiness and Rewards, both
in Degree and Kind
IF" the (6) Happiness of all Beings
"whatever, confifts in the Perfection of
"their Nature", Degrees, if not Kinds of
Happiness in the rational Creation, muſt
vary in the fame manner as rational Crea-
tures, (whether confidered in Species, or as
Individuals) do differ from each other in
natural or acquired Perfections. Now as
this Difference muft unavoidably (c) arife
from their different States and Relations of
Being, and from their different Faculties,
and Opportunities; as well as from their
own right Uſe of thefe Faculties, and
Opportunities: So God may alike be
juftified in beftowing different Degrees, if
not Kinds of Happiness, as in laying a Foun-
dation for fuch a Difference, by making an
infinite Variety, and Inequality of rational
Crea
(a) Chriſtianity as old, &c. p. 408. (6) p. 22. (c) p. 24.
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 31
3
Creatures; and this, we know, (a) is
<<
<<
ne-
I
II.
ceffary to fhew the great Extent of Di-
"vine Goodneſs." Angels themſelves will be
more or less happy, as the (b) Purity, Recti-
tude and Dignity of their Nature, and the ad-
ditional Improvements they make in Wiſdom
and Vertue, bring them nearer and nearer
in Perfection to God, who is infinitely and
neceffarily happy, becaufe he is abfolutely
perfect. The Cafe likewiſe is the very
fame with Men, God may divide to 1 Cor. xii.
every individual Perion, ſeverally as he will,
his own free Gifts, the natural Faculties of
the Soul; and confequently he may make
them knowing (c) and reaſonable, in different
Degrees, more or lefs frail, fallible, and
imperfect, ſo that there may be a gradual
Deſcent from the loweft of the Angelical
Order thro' buman Kind, till we come at
laſt to Brutes; he may, for the fame Rea-
fons that he maketh them thus to differ
by Creation, permit them, in the ordinary
Courfe of Providence, to come into fuch
Circumſtances, wherein their Reafon may
be limited, and not have its due Extent or
Influence, and in both theſe Cafes, they
will
(a) Chriftianity as old, &c. p. 408. (6) p. 23, 24. (c) Reli-
gion of Nature, &c. p. 213. Cbrißianity as old, Bœc. p. 5, 24.
32
A Sermon before the Society
will not have the Means and Opportunities of
gaining all the Perfections, which others of
the fame Species may attain to. (a) If God,
I fay, may in Wiſdom and Goodneſs make
fuch a natural or providential Inequality
among Men, he ought not to be charged
with a criminal Refpect of Perfons, if in the
Day of Recompence he ſhall accept every one
of them to his Favour and Rewards, ac-
cording to what they have, and not accor-
ding to what they have not.-If it be (b)
lawful for our great Lord and Mafter,
which is in Heaven, to do what he will
with his own Goods, and to deliver them
among the Servants of his Family on Earth,
in fuch Proportions as he fees beft; can
he in Reaſon be deemed either partial or
auftere, if when he cometh and reckoneth
with them, he admits all in general, whom
he finds faithful and diligent, into the fame
Place of Joy with himſelf; altho' he be-
ftows upon particulars, fuch different Re-
wards, as are proportionate to their fe-
veral Abilities, (c) and to the Gains every
Man has made by trading with the different
Sums he kindly lent them at the firſt, giv-
ing
(a) Pag. 408, 409. (b) Matt. xx. 15. XXV. 14, &c. Luke
xix. 12, &c. (c) According to their Use of thofe Talents, great
or fmall, God has endow'd them with, Chriſtianity as old, &c.
P. 415.
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 33
ing one Authority over ten Cities, another
over five, and another over one? Or, to
fpeak plainly, without Parable or Figure,
Can God be faid to make an unwife or un-
kind (a) Diftinction among Men, by ad-
vancing thoſe to different Stations of Hap-
pineſs and Glory in a future State, who
have advanced themſelves in this State of
Tryal, to different Degrees of rational
Perfection? Whilft his Benevolence is at
the fame Time fo unlimited, as to beftow
on all in general, who live up to the Light
he gave them, not an equal, but that certain
Portion of eternal Happiness, be it more
or lefs, for which they are qualified by
their own proper Gifts, and perfonal Ac- 1 Cor. vii.
compliſhments.-Doubtless the fame Rea-
1
fons which may be urged at firſt for a
Variety and Inequality of Creatures, muſt be
equally ſtrong and conclufive, for a propor-
tionate Variety and Inequality in their fu-
ture Happineſs
If the Divine Being is
not partial in his Goodness, when he makes
immortal Souls (it matters not how) to (b)
differ in their Capacities on Earth, why
may he not continue the fame Difference in
E
Hea-
I
7.
(a) zd Addreſs, p. 13, 17. (6) Locke's Elay, p. 376,
596. Chriftianity as old, &c. p. 417.
34 A Sermon before the Society
t
Heaven? And indeed, fo it ought to be,
as far as we can judge by an Analogy of
reaſoning; for if it be an (a) univerſal Rule
in Nature, that Differences in Things are
attended with anfwerable Relations and Ef-
fects, and if our rational Nature is to be the
fame in the next Life, as it is in this, then
the fame beautiful, and due Subordination
of Beings must be preferved and perpetu-
ated hereafter; and there must be different
Degrees and Kinds of Happineſs befitting
the Differences of particular Souls among
themſelves, as they are more or less perfect
in their Kind, and according to the Pro-
greſs they have made in Habits of Reason
ableness and Unreasonableness, which will
depend upon their refpective natural Pow-
ers, or providential Opportunities, as well
as upon their own right Ufe of thoſề
Powers and Opportunities. To fuppoſe
otherwife, is to (b) fuppofe Fnconftancy in
the divine Conduct, and that God has ori-
ginally enabled fome Men to attain higher
Degrees of rational Perfection, (c) and yet
}
`
-་
that
(a) Relig. of Nat. p. 213, 214. Chriſtianity as old, &c. p.
255410 (6) Pr409~
(c) The Fallacy of fome modern Writers upon this Subject
feems to lye in this Suppofition, that every individual Perſon must
have all the Happiness human Nature, or an immortal Soul is
ca-
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 35
}
LARS
that he will at laft deny them Degrees of
Happiness, proportionate to their Perfe
&ion! (a) altho every Imperfection must
curry' with 'it (I' will not fay) a proportion-
able Unhappiness, but muft render a Man
naturally incapable of the Jame Degree and
Kind of Happiness with another, who is
more perfect in Knowledge; Reaſon, and
Vertue
{
ALL that I have here faid to vindicate
God's Goodness, in diſtributing a Variety of
Gifts and Talents, and different Degrees of
Happineſs among Men, holds only true,
when they anſwer the wife Ends of his
creating them, and preferve that Upright-
neſs and Perfection of Nature, with which
everyone how comes into the World,
notwithſtanding the Fall of Adam, by al-
ways living up to, and making the
Beft Ure they can, of their natural
Light and Powers, in the particular Sta-
tion and Circumſtances wherein Provi-
E 2
2
dence
21
}
{
capable of, as if Men were to be judged, and rewarded in Species,
without any Regard to their perſonal Capacities and Perfections,
(Blount's Mifcel. p. 199. Christianity as old, &c. p. 199,
393,409. 2d Addreſs to the Inhabitants, p. 13, 17.) which is
an Error near akin to that, which places the Excellency of a
Man, more in the external Shape of his Body, than the internal
Perfections of his Soul, Locke's Effay, p. 376, 499.
(a) Chriftianity as old, &c. p. 22, 409.
36 A Sermon before the Society
}
·
Y
dence fhall place them; but if they thro'
Careleſneſs and Want of proper Attention
fail in the Knowledge they might have, or
thro' an evil and perverfe Spirit act in
wilful Oppofition to that Degree of Know-
ledge which they enjoy; if they will not
hearken and obey; when God fpeaks to
them originally and clearly, by the Voice
of Reaſon, by the Dictates of Confcience,
by the Order and Proportions of Things,
by the Law of Nature, and the Courſe of
Providence.—(And was not this the Cafe of
an idolatrous, an unrighteous, and a de-
bauched World? agreeably to the Tefti-
mony of Scripture, (a) which hath con-
cluded all under Sin.)-Such Sinners then
are evidently (b) without Excuſe, nor
has a Deift any Pretence to plead with
their Maker upon the Terms of natural
Reaſon and Religion for (c) extraordinary
Favours and Advantages, for fupernatural
Light and Power, which he is always at Li-
berty to bestow, as he thinks fit-There is too
(a) Gal. iii. 21. Rom. iii, 23.---xi. 32.
H
much
འ་པ
(b) The Author of Chriftianity as old, &c. agrees with St.
Paul, that the Gentiles could not plead Ignorance of their Duty
either to God or Man, and as finning against Knowledge, were
inexcufable, p. 51.
(c) zd Address, p. 12.
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 37
much Reaſon to fear, that God in Juftice may
and will deny them a Continuance of thoſe
his ordinary Favours they fo grofly abuſe,
fince if they were to be tried by the Law
of Nature, every Individual muſt plead
(a) guilty, and every Mouth must be stopped,
having nothing to fay, why they fhould
not fuffer the Sentence of Death, which
by the Nature of Things, and the Ap-
pointment of God, is the proper Puniſh-
ment of Sin.-And that this was the Senfe
of the Heathen World, I appeal to the
univerfal Cuſtom of offering Sacrifices,
which if not of divine Inſtitution, yet
proves at leaſt, that thoſe who offer'd them
thought "that their Sins deferved Pu-
66
nishment, and that their own Lives
were juftly forfeited by the Breach of
"God's Laws". The Confcience indeed
of every Sinner no fooner accuſes, but it
condemns and entertains no other Hope
of eſcaping the Puniſhment, that every
unreaſonable and wicked Action deferves,
but from the infinite Mercy of God; and
how far that can extend confiftently with
the neceffary Rules and Meaſures of his
eternal Government of the Univerſe, in-
finite
(a) Rom. in. 19.
38 A Serndon before the Society
+
•
+
finite Wisdom only (a) can determine. So-
far we know for certain, that our best Ou
bedience being nothing more than was `ouf
Duty before any Tranfgreffion, our Re-
pentance afterwards cannot bring any ab-
folute Obligation upon God to forgive,
what in Wisdom and Justice he ought to
punish, and has threaten'd that he will do
fo. However, if Wisdom ſhould determine
him to be merciful to Men, and not to in-
Alict the Puniſhment juftly due, and actually
threatned; yet it is one thing to pardon,
and another to reward; and we must leave
it to his undeferved Goodnefs, under the
Direction of infinite Wisdom (without any
certain Claim or Hope) to beſtow further
Favours on us, eſpecially fuch a Portion
of Happiness, as was at firft a mere free
Gift of his Grace, and then' intended as
an Encouragement and Reward to a per-
fect and unfinning Obedience to his Laws.
(b) Every Deviation from the Rules of right
Reafon must carry with it a proportionable
Un-
(a) Human Reafon could not make certain to: Mam the
Pardon of Sin, without any Puniſhment of the Sinner.-So
jays the Author of a Plea for human Reaſon, p. 19. but this
Caff is most judiciouſly and clearly fated by the late Dr. Clarke
in the xvi Sermon of his 8 Vol.
(b) Christianity as old, &c. p. 22.
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 39
Unhappiness, fo that whoever deviates, can
never have a Claim of Right to that Hap
piness which belongs by Promiſe to Inno-
cence, and confummate Vertue only. Such
as keep not their first Eftate, can do no Jude 6.
more than plead a fincere Repentance (if it
be perfect as it ought to be) in abatement
only of Puniſhment, but not as a real title
to Reward; much leſs to eternal Happi-
nefs, tho' our Souls are capable of it, as be-
ing naturally immortal; and fo, for ought
we know, may be the Souls of Brutes.
Now from theſe general Reflections on the
Wisdom, Juftice, and Goodness of GoD, as
manifefted in the Creation and Government
of the World, we may, I think, fairly con-
clude, that ſhould He be pleaſed to vouch-
fafe to Men the extraordinary and unme-
rited Favour of any Revelation, and ſhould
not then do, as much as he really did for
the univerſal Promulgation of the Gospel,
yet it could be no juft Objection to the Truth
of it, (a) that it is not equally commu-
nicated to all, as well as fome; fince no
Reafon can be given, why God should be
at perfect Liberty to create a Variety and
Inequality of rational Creatures, or to di-
ftribute
3
(a) Chriſtianity as old, &c. p. 10, &c. 15.
40 A Sermon before the Society
ſtribute natural Light, and the Powers of
Reaſon, in various degrees, and at fundry
times, to different Men, and to different
Nations, which will not equally hold with
regard to fupernatural Light and Powers;
which will not equally juſtifie him in making
Revelations that have the internal marks of
Truth, at what Time, and in what Mea-
fures, to what Nations, and to what Per-
fons he pleaſeth, according to the Counsel of
his own Will, without acquainting us with
the particular Reaſons and Motives that
determine him fo to act, any more in this
Cafe, than in the other; for Reaſon ought
to fatisfie us in the one, and Miracles in
the other, that he acts well and wifely,
tho' by Counfels unfearchable, and Ways paft
finding out by us at prefent; unlefs we
weakly or arrogantly pretend to have, (a)
or that we ought to have, as extenfive a
Know-
(a) Christianity as old, &c. p. 384. -2d Addrefs to Inhar
bitants, p. 12.-I wish this Writer would read over Mr. Wool-
fton, upon the exact Fitneſs of Time in which Chriſt was
manifefted, for perhaps he may not think him a prejudiced Party,
tho' be be a Chriftian Prieft.-His Words, p. 4, 5. are very ap-
plicable to my purpose, when he answers the Objection of fuch
Unbelievers as conclude," That human Reaſon alone is all the
"Rule we have for Religion, and that the Goſpel of Chrift is but
"the Device and Fable of Men, or the World had had it of old
"time. Suppofing, says he, that I could make no better Reply to
-
this
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 41
Knowledge, as God himſelf of the whole
Scheme, Order, or State of Things, that
can any wife concern Mankind, in this, or
another World.
BUT if the Deift will allow an Analogy
of reaſoning, which in Matters of this kind
is the only Help we have, and 'tis from
that alone, we draw all the Grounds of
Probability; he muſt either confefs, that
God may have as wife and good Reafons
for making as great an Inequality among
Men, in theſe laſt Days, when he hath ſpo-
ken to them by his Son, as when he ſpeaks
himſelf by the Voice of Reafon or elfe
he muſt complain of the God of the Gen-
tiles, as well as of Jews and Chriftians;
fince 'tis manifeſt from all natural and pro-
F
vi-
"this Objection, than to confefs my Ignorance of the Wif
"dom of God in the Choice of the Time for the Miſſion of
"his Son, yet Unbelievers ought not to triumph in the Ob-
"jection, nor think our Religion the lefs true.
There are
many Difpenfations of God in his Providence, that are
"above the Reach of Man to difcover the Reafons of them.
"So long as we believe the Being of God, we ought to pre-
"fume there is Wifdom in his Providence. So long as we
"may be fully fatisfied of Chrift's Authority and Power; of
the Dignity of his Perfon, and of the Excellency of his
"Doctrine that was confirm'd by Miracles, we may very
" reaſonably fubmit fome Things of his Religion to the in-
"finite Wiſdom of God." This might fuffice in Anſwer to
the Objection above, were thefe Men who make it, modeſt and
bumble The Reafons he adds afterwards have allo their
Weight.
A
42
A Sermon before the Society
vidential Appearances, that intellectual Per-
fections are actually difpenfed in a very
unequal manner among Men, that they
are not all furniſhed with the fame Abili-
ties or Opportunities of making like ra-
tional Improvements, and confequently
(a) have not the Means of gaining the
higheſt degrees of Perfection and Happineſs,
whereof human Nature is capable. He
muft complain, that natural and moral
Truths, as well as revealed, are not made
known to all Men equally, but in different
Degrees and Proportions And indeed
there would be no End of his Complaints;
for if it (6) follows, that every Man is par-
tially dealt with, nay, cruelly and unmerci-
fully uſed by God, becauſe he is in want
of thoſe advantageous Privileges of Nature,
Reaſon, or Revelation, which he might
have had, or of that Share of Perfection
and Happineſs which is beſtowed on other
rational Creatures, of his own, or other
Species; he must go on upon the fame
Principle, to expoftulate with his Maker,
for not bringing him into the World with
the perfect Ufe of his Reaſon, for not
(a) Christianity as old, &c. p. 408. (b) P. 401.
(a)
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 43
(a) implanting in him all the Laws and
Duties that arife from his Creation, for not
making him an Angel, or, what (b) is much
better, for not creating him infallible and
impeccable. He might infiſt upon having
all communicable Perfections, and to be
put out of the Poffibility of making him-
ſelf miſerable, as he may do, unleſs God
has been fo good to him, as to make his
(c) Reafon as certain and neceffary a Guide
to Happiness, as Inftinct is for irrational
Creatures. If it be true, (d) that the
greater Perfections a rational Creature is
endowed with, the greater Degree of Hap-
pineſs it is capable of; and (e) if God
could have no other Defign in creating
any Man than his Happineſs, it muſt fol-
low, that if he deſerve the Character of a
Being of unlimited Benevolence, he muſt
have diſcovered and given to every one
of us, every Thing that can be for our
Good; for not to do ſo, is to envy us the
higheſt Kinds and Degrees of Happineſs.
-So that upon thefe Principles and Rea-
fonings, the Thing formed may for ever Rom. ix.
F 2
Say
(a) Christianity as old, &c. p. 4. (6) Mr. Locke's An-
fwer to Complaints of a like Nature, is very applicable, Efay,
B. I. Chap. iv. Sect. 12. (c) 2d Addr. p. 16. (d) Chriffianity
as old, &c. p. 22, 24. (e) P. 393, 15.
20.
44 A Sermon before the Society
jay to him that formed it, Why haft thou
made me thus, or dealt thus with me?-An-
gels and Men muſt be perpetually (a) li-
belling the impartial and univerfal Goodness
of God and nothing could content them,
or juſtifie him in his Works of Creation
and Providence, till they were all equally
perfect, and neceffarily happy; and then
there could not be Liberty either in the
Creature, or Creator; and confequently,
not that infinite Variety and Inequality of
Beings, which a (b) modern Writer, after
a great deal of Chicane, is forced to own to
be necessary, to shew the great Extent of the
Divine Goodness.
AND indeed without this Conceffion, he
muſt have run into this Abfurdity of Spi-
noza, that from the Neceffity of the Divine
Nature only infinite Things can poffibly arife;
nay, as it is, if he be uniformly true to his
Principles, and their natural Confequences,
he has as much Realon to turn Atheiſt as
Deift; for his Arguments, if they be of any
Force, will prove that there is no God, or
that (c) he is not good, nor loves Mankind
for if he did do fo, fince "Means (d) and
"Ends
(a) 2d Addr. p. 12. (b) pag. 12. Cbristianity as old, &c.
p.408. (c) p. 388. (d) p. 196. Addrefs to the Inhab. p. 64.
;
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 45
"C
"Ends were alike in his Power," and within
his Knowledge, why did he "ordain fuch
"Means, as either were not fufficient at first,
or in Proceſs of Time became in Fact
infufficient, not anſwering the End for
"which he intended them," unleſs he (a) of
his infinite Wisdom and Goodness, did intend
the World ſhould be as idolatrous, unrigh-
teous and debauched, as it really was, in
Principles and Practices.(b)" Is it not incum-
bent upon thoſe," who cry up the abfolute
Perfection of Reafon, as it is in Men, "to
"fhew how it is confiftent with the Notion
" of God's being univerfally benevolent,not
to have endowed all his Children equally
"with it, fince all have equal Need of it;
for as all "Mankind are (c) Creatures of the
<<
CC
CC
""
fame Creator, and Fellow Creatures with
one another, muft not all their religious
"Duties be the fame? and if they be the
fame, what equally concerns all, muſt be
<<
equally knowable by all." (d) " Was it not
"then as eafie for GOD, for the Sake of this
"noble End, to have communicated this
<<
Knowledge to all Nations and Perfons," as
to few; to the Hottentots of Soldania, as
to
(a) 2d. Addr. p. 10. Chriftianity as old, &c. p. 375. (6)
p. 196. (c) p. 197. (d) p. 196,···.
46
A Sermon before the Society
to the Philofophers of Greece and Rome,
(a)which he might have done, by imprinting
on the Minds of all, an adequate Idea of
himſelf, and by ftamping there, in fair and
indelible Characters, all that Men ought to
know or believe of him; all that they
ought to do in Obedience to his Will.
-This, no doubt, every one will think
better for Men, than that they ſhould be
left to the Trouble of employing the ra-
tional Faculties of their Minds, (b) in Or-
der to distinguish Truth from Falfhood,
and to diſcover Truths of the highest Confe-
quence to their eternal, as well as tempo-
ral Happiness; when at the fame Time
'tis evident that all Men are not indued
with the fame Faculties and Capacities,
nor have they all equally afforded to them,
the fame Means and Opportunities of ar-
riving to equal Perfection in natural, moral,
or religious Knowledge. (c) "If God at all
"Times was willing all Men fhould come to
"the Knowledge of his Truth, could not his
"infinite Wiſdom and Power at all times
"find Means fufficient" and effectual to fuch
a Knowledge?-Shall we fay, that he who
"had the framing of human Underſtand-
ings,
cc
(a) Locke's Effay, p. 38, 41, 42. (b) Christianity as old,
&c. p. 11. (c) p. 4, 106.
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 47
ings, as well as his own Laws, did not
"know how to adjust the one to the o-
"ther?" or that "
or that "being infinitely power-
CC
ful, he could not bring every thing to paſs
"which he defigns for any end.
CC
<<
"IF God never (a) intended Mankind
ſhould at any Time be without Religion,
or have falfe Religions, and there can be
"but one abfolutely perfect, and true Re-
ligion, the Means to effect this End of
"infinite Wiſdom, muſt be as univerfal
" and extenſive as the End itſelf, and all
"Men at all Times, and in all Places,
"muſt have had Means" alike fufficient
to diſcover that only true, and abfolutely
perfect Religion, (b) "all their religious
"Duties being the fame." But how true
this is in Fact of the Religion of Nature,
I appeal to thofe Gentlemen, who now
and then, to ferve another turn, rejoice
and triumph in defcribing the barbarous
Ignorance of Hottentots, ar fome poor In-
dian Nations. Surely they are not all
wilful Corrupters of the Light of Reaſon,
and without any poffible Excufe, for not
diſcovering and practiſing all the Duties of
that only true and abfolutely perfect Reli-
gion of Nature, which has of late been
(a) Pag. 5. · ´(b.) p. 197.
de-
48
A Sermon before the Society
delineated by a moſt able Philofopher, who
had Affiftance from all the Improvements
that have been made in reafoning by the
Light of Revelation; and who will tell
us, that many, if not all in the Heathen
World, (a)" fet out in Life from fuch
poor Beginnings of Knowledge, and grew
up under fuch Remains of Superſtition
"and Ignorance, fuch Influences of Com-
pany and Faſhion, &c. that it is no Won-
"der, if their Minds come to be overcaft
"with thick Prejudices, fcarce penetrable
(6
CC
<<
by any Ray of Truth, or Light of Rea-
fon." (b) If it be faid, that their GoD in
the Day of Judgment will mercifully con-
fider the unhappy Circumſtances they were
in, and accept them, provided they are fincere,
according to what they have, and not accord-
ing to what they have not. This is true; but
then this Anſwer will not fatisfie an Atheist,
becauſe he will alfo further ask, (c)" if GoD
"always acts for the Good of his Creatures,
"and at all times intends Mankind that Hap-
<c
pinefs their Nature is capable of;" what
Reaſon can be affigned, why he ſhould
not give to all of them, at all times, the
very
(a) Relig. of Nat. p. 179. (b). This is whas Tully infifts
upon at large, Tufcul. Difput. Lib. iii. C. 1-4. (c) Chriſtia-
nity as old, &c. p. 393, 408, 379.
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 49
very
fame Means of obtaining it, and diſ-
cover to them, whatever is alike the Duty,
"and for the Good of all; and that too,
"after the fame plain Manner, as if he
"had miraculously conveyed the fame Ideas
"and Notions to all People." Why does
he not (a)" immediately illuminate them all,
"with fo clear and diftinct a Light, as to
"make them attend to, as well as perceive
"all thofe eternal Truths, which are the
"Foundation of human Knowledge
" and
Happineſs? — And if enlightening be not
fufficient to make Men good, as well as
wife, (b) "why did not GoD, (unleſs he act
66
out of Spite and Hatred) do what would
"have been in Effect fufficient to have hin-
dred them from falling into, and continu-
ing from Age to Age, in a deplorable, if
CC
CL
not deftructive State of Ignorance, Error,
"and Corruption?"--for is He, (c) "who does
" not hinder a Miſchief when it is in his
"Power, much better than he who does it?"
(d) And "where is the Difference, in Relation
"to the Goodneſs of GOD, and the Happi-
"neſs of Mankind, between God's creating
them in a State of univerfal Degeneracy
"and Corruption, and his permitting them
to fall into it, which his infinite Wiſdom
<<
G
(a) Chriftianity as old, &c. p. 11.
..(i) p. 388.
(d) p. 389.
"could
(b) p. 399, 11
II
50
A Sermon before the Society
"could not but foreſee?" And if it did not
forefee, yet (a)" why were not all Defects
"C
fupply'd as foon as diſcovered? for the
"fooner this was done, the greater would
"his Goodneſs appear to be." Why did he
not (b) preſcribe an immediate and effectual
Remedy to the Diſeaſe? If he could
not prevent, yet "why did he not put a
Stop to any thing he difliked?" Why did
he fuffer all Nations to walk in their
own Ways, in the Ways of Ignorance and
Error, Superftition and Vice, unleſs this
be the State (c) God of his infinite Wiſdom
and Goodness defigned they ſhould be in?
et
I have been the longer *
upon this
Subject, that it might fully and clearly ap-
pear, that the Arguings of thoſe, who
have at any Time denied the Being of
God, and of his Providence, are the (d)
very
(a) Christianity as old, &c. p. 399, 393. (b) p. 401,
(c) p. 375. 2d Addreſs, p. 10.
393.
* I hope the Society, who ordered me to print the Sermon I
preached before them, will with the fame Candour excufe me
for making fuch Additions to it in feveral Places, as feemed
neceffary to do Juftice to fo important a Subject, and to give my
own Reaſonings on it their utmoft Force.
(d) Thus Cotta the Academic attacks God and his Provi-
dence upon Epicurean Principles, and proves, that Reafon in
particular could never be the Gift of God: or that God was
unkind and cruel in giving it to Men, unless it had been more
perfect in itſelf, and not liable to most fatal Abufes, which if
foreſeen, ought to have been prevented by him. Satius fuerit,
nullam omnino nobis a Diis immortalibus datam effe rationem,
quam
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 51
very fame almoft in Words, as well as in
Effect, with thoſe which have been lately
urg'd againſt Chriſtianity. The only true,
and abfolutely perfect Religion of Nature, is
no leſs affected by them than the Gospel of
Chrift, as not being equally and univerfally
known, and a like plain, to the whole Race of
Mankind, at all Times, and in all Places; and
be the Chriftian Revelation, true or falſe, yet
the Creator and Governor of the Univerſe
will be alike liable to their Cenfure, for
not interpofing in a fupernatural Manner to
(a) recover Mankind out of a State which
rational Creatures muft own to be dege-
G 2
nerate
·
quam tantâ cum pernicie datam. Si mens, voluntafque Divina
id circo confuluit hominibus, quod iis largita eft rationem,
iis folis confuluit quos bona ratione donavit; quos vide-
mus, fi modo ulli funt, effe perpaucos. Non placet autem
paucis a Diis immortalibus effe confultum, fequitur ergo, ut
nemini fit confultum Sed urgetis identidem hominum effe
iſtam culpam, non Deorum-Contra Deum licet difputare libe-
rius-Eam dediffes hominibus Rationem, quæ vitia, culpamq;
excluderet.—Sic veftra iſta Providentia reprehendenda, quæ ra-
tionem dederit iis, quos fcierit eâ perverſe & improbe ufuros.
Nifi forte dicitis eam nefciffe. Utinam equidem! fed non au-
debitis; non enim ignoro, quanti ejus Numen putetis. Cicero
de Nat. Deor. L. iii. C. 27, 28, 31.-To the fame purpoſe do the
Epicurean Atheiſts argue in Lactantius, de Irâ Deorum, and in
Cudworth's Intellect. Syftem, p. 78.But whoever is willing
to fee how exactly in every respect, either they, or the Mani-
cheans correfpond with the Author of Christianity as old, &c, in
bis Objections to the Truth of Chriftianity, may confult Monf.
Bayle's Dictionaire Hiftorique and Critique, under the following
Words, Epicure, Manicheens, Pauliciens, and Pyrrhon, as alfa
in his Ecclarciffements fur les Athees, &c. Vol. iv.
(a) Chriftianity as old, &c. p. 401.
52 A Sermon before the Society
nerate and corrupted; and to replace them
in a State fuitable to the original Dignity
and Excellency of their Nature; fince the
common Powers of Reaſon, with all the
Affiftances of Philofophy, had never, nor
were ever likely to have fo good an Effect,
as to make Men as perfect and excellent
as they ought to be, which nevertheleſs it
muſt have done, fay fome, (a) if God had
intended this effect. So that if a Deiſt be not
really an Atheist in his Heart, he will
fcarce fail to fee, that the fame Reaſons,
which will justifie God in making an in-
finite Variety and Inequality of Creatures,
in giving to Men different Faculties and
Capacities of Soul, and different Oppor-
tunities of exercising and improving them,
or even in leaving (b) them for 4000 Years
together, to the Confequences of an im-
perfect, prejudiced, or perverted Reaſon ;
will equally juftifie him in not making the
Christian Revelation fooner, in not commu-
nicating the real Bleffing of it to all Nations,
and to every Perfon: and then conftraining
them to become thereby, what they may
be, wiſer and better, than they could pro-
bably, or poffibly have been without it.
BUT tho' I may thus plead in Behalf
of
(a) Chriftianity as old, &c. p. 402.
(b) p. 401.
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 53
of the Christian Revelation, yet we have
great Reafon to believe that the Mercies of
God in Chrift Jefus, will be as extenfive
as human Race, and that thro' him fhall
all the Nations of the Earth be bleſſed.-For
tho' the Scriptures of the New Teſtament
are not explicit in declaring what ſhall be
the future State of thoſe who never heard
the glad Tidings of the Gospel, yet there
are many Paffages, from whence we may
reaſonably conclude, that GoD will ex-
tend the Redemption and Salvation pur-
chafed by his Son to all Men, who ever were,
are, or fhall be, if they live up (human In-
firmities excepted) to the Knowledge and
Advantages they enjoy, whether by the
Light of Nature, the Law of Mofes, or
the Gospel of Christ.-But had the Scri-
ptures been entirely filent in the Caſe, yet
this could have been no Objection to their
divine Original, becauſe they are fuppofed
to concern fuch only, as have the Gospel
preached to them, and may therefore leave
all others, in the fame State, in which De-
ifts defire to be left, to the Conjectures
of natural Reaſon, and the uncovenanted
Mercies of God.
THE Cafe indeed is otherwife, and it
ought methinks to raiſe the Value of Chri-
fti-
54
A Sermon before the Society
ftianity among Deifts themſelves, that it
gives its Profeffors more certain, and plea-
fing Hopes of the future State of fuch
among their Fellow Creatures, as are not
here fo happy as themſelves.-The Works
of Nature proclaim the Wisdom and Power
of God; but 'tis his peculiar Care of Man-
kind, moſt eminently diſcovered in the
Difpenfation of the Gospel, that (a) gives
us a wonderful and furprizing fenfe of his
inexhaustible Love for all; of his infinite
Goodness and Mercy, even towards thofe,
who, on Account of their Difobedience,
are no more worthy to be called his Sons
for from hence we learn, that the very
Motive of fending his only Son into the
World, was not a Love to any particular
People, or Nation, but that he might be
(b) the Saviour of the World. And accor-
Rom. v. dingly St. Paul, in a fet Difcourfe, extends
the Benefits of his Death, as far as the
Miſeries of Adam's Fall, to the whole
Seed of the Woman, that is, to every Man;
for which Reafon it is elſewhere ſaid,
that (c) He, by the Grace of God, tafted
Death for every Man: and his (d) Death
(a) Christianity as old, &c. p. 15.
iv. 42. xii. 47. 1 John iv. 14.
(d) John i. 29. Rom. iii. 25. 1 Tim. ii.
;
is
(b) John iii. 17.
(c) Heb. ii. 9.
6. Heb. ix. 1 John ii. 2.
•
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c.
55
is often ſpoken of, as in lieu of all the Sa-
crifices that were ever offered, and as a
real and full Propitiation, not only for the
Sins of Chriſtians, but for the Sins of the
whole World, nay, as a Ransom for all Men,
without Diſtinction or Exception. It is
thro' him, who is likewife the (a) one Me-
diator between God and Men, that all (b)
Sins will be forgiven; and that all who
have finned, and come ſhort of the Glory of
God, fhall be (c) reconciled to him upon
Repentance, and be deemed fo far (d) righ-
teous in his Sight, as not only to eſcape the
Puniſhment they deſerved, but to regain
what in Juftice they had forfeited, his (e)
Peace and Favour, and the free Gift of
eternal (f) Life.
From which Paffages, I cannot but think
it evident, that the Efficacy of what Chrift,
who (g) verily was fore ordained before the
Foundation of the World, did and ſuffered
in the Fleſh, in the Fulness of Time, may
and will extend to all the Pofterity of
Adam,
Eph. i. 7.
(a) 1 Tim. ii. 5. (b) Luke xxiv. 7. Acts xiii. 38.
Col. i. 14. 1 John ii. 12. (c) Rom. v. 10. Eph. ii. 16. Col. i.
20. 2 Cor. v. 18, 19. (d) Rom. iii. 24. v. 9, 17. viii. 30. 1
Cor. vi. 11. 2 Cor. v. 21. (e). Atts x. 36. Rom, v. 1. Eph. i.
6. ii. 14, &c. Col. i. 20. (f) Rom. vi. 23. 1 Joh. iv. 9. i
Job. v, 11. 2 Tim. i, 10. (g) 1 Pet, i. 20.
56
A Sermon before the Society
Adam, in every Age and Country, even
tho' we ſuppoſe them to have no Hope
from the Promifes God made to Adam and
Abraham It feems to have been always
the wife Purpoſe of God (a), to gather to-
gether in one all Things in Chrift, both which
are in Heaven, and which are in Earth, even
in him: who by the Sacrifice of himself once
offered, tho' in the End of the World, had
made fuch an Atonement for finful Men, as
that his Father might, confiftently with
the Character of a wife and righteous Go-
vernor of the Univerſe, and his irrecon-
cileable Hatred to Sin, do what his Good-
neſs and Mercy inclin'd him to, that is,
to accept their fincere Repentance, join'd
to an imperfect Righteousness, instead of that
abfolute Perfection, and Obedience, which
were requir'd by the Law of Nature; and
then renew unto them his own free Pro-
miſe of eternal Life. And hence it is, that
I believe, that not only (b) Abraham, Ifaac,
and Jacob, and all the Prophets, ſhall be
admitted into the Kingdom of God: but
that many shall come from the Eaft and
Weft, even all in every Nation, without
Respect of Perfons, who have feared God,
and
(n) Éph. i. 10, &c. (b) Luke_xiii. 28, 29. Acts x. 34-
1
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 57
and wrought Righteousness to the beſt of
their Knowledge and Abilities, whether
under the Light of Reafon or Revelation:
and be received at the laſt Day by Chrift,
the Judge of all, their Mediator and Re-
deemer, into that everlasting State of Happi-
neſs, (a) which was prepared for them by his
Father, from the Foundation of the World.
But tho' there will be one everlaſting State
of Happiness common to them all, and that
State obtained thro' the Mercies of God in
Christ Jesus; yet it does not follow, that (b)
all Mankind at all Times must be put upon a
Level with relation to their future Happiness,
any more than it will follow, that as rational
Beings, they muſt be equal in Happiness
unto the Angels, nay, unto GoD himſelf,
altho' they will all live together in Heaven
-It cannot be in the Nature of Things,
that the wifeſt and beſt among the Hea-
thens, fuch as Socrates and Plato, fhould
have no greater Degree, or other kind of
H
i
Hap-
(a) Matt. xxv. 34. The Thoughts of Dr. Clarke upon this
Subject, are so judicious, and worthy of the Reader's Notice, that
I cannot but defire him to look into thofe Places of the Doctor's
Sermons I have here referr'd to, Vol. ii. p. 207. Vol. iv. p. 250,
255, Vol. v. p. 23, 31, 146.—The Force of these Truths did
once make like Impreffions on Mr. Woolfton's Mind, fo that he
allows, that God, by the Goſpel of Chrift, has made Pro-
"vifion for the Salvation of the Ages before, as well as of
"thofe after Chrift's Miffion". See his exact Fitness of Times
&c. p. 97, 98. (6) Chriſtianity as old, &c. p. 417.
58 A Sermon before the Society
Happiness, than an Hottentot or Changeling ;
Happiness, no doubt, muft vary, in pro-
portion to the natural, and moral Per-
fections of Creatures; and tho' every Man
ſhall be hereafter as happy as he ought,
or can in Reaſon expect to be, yet Saints,
like Stars in Heaven, may differ from each
other in Rank and Glory; and the meanest
Chriftian Believer, without claiming any
extraordinary Favour or Merit (a) from his
Relation unto Chrift, may there take Place
of the wifeft Philofopher, if he excel him in
true Wiſdom and Vertue, as he can fcarce
fail to do, if he will but let his Religion
have its perfect Work, for it will make
him perfect and entire, wanting no moral
Accompliſhments, that it is poffible for
him to gain in this imperfect State of Tryal.
For (b) which Reafon, the actual Knowledge
of the Gospel, (even tho' all good Men may
reap without it a real Benefit from what
Christ hath done and fuffered for them) is
in itſelf the moſt defireable and valuable of
human Bleffings, and most worthy to be re-
ceived with all Gratitude and Thankfulneſs
to God, whenever he ſhall pleaſe, in the
Wiſdom of his Providence, to bestow upon
them fo ineftimable a Talent; which, if
(a) p. 408, 409. (6) p. 417.
em-
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 59
employed aright, will naturally advance
them, by continual Improvements in true
Wiſdom and Goodneſs, to the higheſt De-
grees of human Perfection and Happineſs,
even fuch as come the neareft to Angelical
and Divine. Which Confideration alone
would determine me to diſcharge the Bu-
finefs of my
III. Third Head, and to prefs upon all
Chriftians, the different Obligations they
lie under at this Day, according to their
reſpective Opportunities and Abilities, to
make the Goſpel known to all Nations for
the Obedience of Faith. The Commiffion
of my Text indeed feems to be directed to
the Apostles only, but as they neither did,
nor could preach the Gospel to every Crea-
ture; the Reaſons of it, fupported by (a)
parallel Places, and the Nature of the
Thing, will reach every Chriftian in every
Age, unto the End of the World; we ſhould
then remember, that the Promife of the Gof-
pel is not only unto us, and to our Children,
but to all that are afar off, even to as many
as the Lord our God fhall, in infinite Wiſdom
and Goodneſs, call by Means natural, or
Jupernatural: I only wish, our Zeal to fo
H 2
(a) Mat. xxviii. 19, 20. Luke xxiv. 47. Ats ii. 39.
di-
60
A Sermon before the Society
Acts xxvi.
18.
divine and charitable a Work, was equal
to that of the first Preachers, or any wife
proportionate to the Motives that fhould
engage us in it, to the Abilities we have,
and to the Opportunities that offer; for the
Love of God in Chrift, is not now more
confined, than it was then; The intrinfic
Excellency of the Chriftian Revelation can-
not be altered by Climates or Seaſons, and
the. Advantages and Bleffings of it muſt
be at all Times, and in all Places the fame ;
moft conducive to the Glory of God, and
to the Happiness of Men, both temporal and
eternal: and notwithſtanding the Suffici-
ency, or Perfection of human Reaſon, the
Gentile World ſtill fits in Darkneſs, and
the Shadow of Death, and is as ignorant, as
idolatrous, and as vicious as ever. - The
glad Tidings of the Gospel, therefore, muſt
be equally welcome, and Matter of great
Joy to all People; whatever is a Benefit,
and a Bleffing to us, muft be equally fo to
others and therefore all Chriftians ftand
now as much oblig'd by Duty to their great
Lord and Mafter, and by Charity to the
Souls of their Fellow-Creatures, to fupply
their Wants, and to fulfil their Joy by do-
ing what they can, to open their Eyes, and
to turn them from Darkness to Light, and
"
from
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 61
IO.
from the Power of Satan unto God, that
they may receive Forgiveness of Sins, and
know all the exceeding great and precious 2 Tim. i.
Promifes, which have been given to us by
God thro' Chrift, who hath abolished Death,
and bath brought Life and Immortality to
perfect Light through the Goſpel.
THERE is indeed a peculiar Reaſon to
excite us of this Nation to a Work of
fuch unspeakable Charity, a Charity ever
neceffary, and moſt like to that, which
brought the Son of God himself into the
World; if it be evident, that there are
many, (a) if not a Combination of Perfons
among us, who fpare no Subtlety or Pains
to root out Christianity at home, and to
ſpread Infidelity abroad, with the Vigilance,
the Malice, and the Cunning of that A-John iii.
poftate Spirit, whofe Kingdom the Son of
God was manifefted, on purpoſe to deſtroy.
-In fuch Circumftances, for any Chriftian
،
to
(a) There feems to be a formed Defign among fome in
England, to make us irrecoverably worſe, both in Principles
"and Behaviour; at leaſt ſeveral Books adapted to that End,
"have of late been ſcattered over all our Colonies; fuch as,
"The Rights of the Christian Church afferted, and the De-
fence of it; The Grounds and Reaſons of the Chriſtian Reli-
"gion; The Fable of the Bees; Lyon's Infallibility of human
Judgment; Many of the Socinian Tracts; Woolfton's Dif-
"courfes; The London-Journals; fuch as that of April 26.
"this Year, and other Performances of the fame Tendency."
See a Letter to the Right Reverend the Lord Bishop of London,
from an Inhabitant of the Leeward-Iſlands, p. 71.
Co
8.
62
A Sermon before the Society
A
to be unconcerned or unactive, is to give
fome Weight to the Objection made by
Unbelievers, that our Religion is not uni-
verfal, and to betray the Caufe of GoD,
and of his Christ; nay, not to exert his
utmoſt Abilities in its Defence and Propa-
gation, will, in the Day of Judgment, ap-
pear to be a fcandalous, and inexcufable
Breach of his Duty, and his Truft-We
ſhould indeed, if we were as wife in our
Generation as the Children of this World,
endeavour what we can to carry, and plant
the Gospel in the new-diſcovered Continent
of America, that we may have fome Place
to flee into, an Afylum from perfecuting
Infidels, if God in juft Judgment fhould
permit it to be loft in Europe, as he did
heretofore in Afia and Africa; giving us
over to the very fame (a) Inventions, which
changed the Truth of God into a Lie, and
made the Gentiles to walk in the Vanity
(tho' they called it Wiſdom) of a reprobate
Mind, that by Reafon of an ill Uſe was
fcarce able to difcern Good from Evil.
AND it is, I am fure, in the Power
of every Christian, not to hinder the Gof-
pel of Chriſt, in any wife; nay, we can all
do fomewhat to promote its Intereſts;
(a) Ecclef. vii. 29. Rom. i. 21, &c.
we
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 63
we can all daily pray for its Enlarge-
ment; we can all live as becometh the Re-
ligion we profeſs, and ſet off every Chri-
ftian Doctrine and Grace with the en-
gaging Luftre of a good Example.— In
this fenfe every Traveller, or Trader in-
to Pagan Countries, ſhould be an Apo-
Atle and Evangelift: and fuch as fettle
there in our Colonies and Plantations,
should in their Temper and their Pra-
ctices diſcover the true Spirit of the Gof
pel; they ſhould be Chriftian Mafters,
treating their Heathen Slaves not as Beafts
of Burden, but as Fellow-Creatures:
and above all, they fhould avoid fuch
bafe, and wicked Arts of Trafficking, as
Men of moral Honeſty abhor.-Thefe are
Debts, which they owe in Justice, as well
as Duty to God, and the Revelation of
his Son; that both be not Blafphemed thro
them, among the (a) Deifts at Home, as
well as the (b) Gentiles abroad; fome of
whom have been ready to "refuſe Hea-
{
<<
ven
(a) Chriftianity as old, &c. p. 404, 405. 2d Address to the
Inhabitants, &c. p. 26. A Letter to Dr. Rogers, p. 60, &c.
(b) Barthol. de Cafis Epifcopi Narratio Crudelit. Hifpano-
rum.Dr. Harris's Collection of Voyages, Vol. I. p. 798. —A
Preliminary Difcourse to an Account of the Danish Miffion in the
Eaft-Indies, p. 24. Kolben's Prefent State of the Cape of
Good Hope.
64
A Sermon before the Society
Ifaiah
"ven itſelf in Chriftian Company:
and
to believe, that "the God of the Chri-
"ftians is the worst of Gods, becauſe
<<
they fee his Worshippers to be the
"worft of Men, and to bring over fuch
"Vices and Immoralities, as were never
"named among them".
Asto Chriftian Princes, they should,to ſpeak
xlix. 23. in the prophetic Style, be nurfing Fathers, and
nurfing Mothers of their Religion, and be as
affectionately defirous to fupport and ſpread
it, as to extend their Empire, or enlarge
the Commerce of their People. But then
this Character of them can never
never inti-
mate, that they ſhould ſet up Christ as a
Competitor with Mahomet, by renewing any
Attempts to regain the Ground Christianity
has loft, by the most wicked Arts of
worldly Policy, and by Wars, which it
fhocks me to call Holy: or that they
ſhould ever fettle or maintain it in its
Poffeffions by Janizaries, Inquifitors, and
Dragoons, or fuch Methods of Violence and
elty, as its greateſt Enemies have uſed
to ſuppreſs and deftroy it.The Wea-
pons of their Warfare fhould be Spiritual,
and not Carnal, fuch as are fuitable to
the Genius and Spirit of the Gospel; their
Power and Authority ſhould be employed
in
for Propagation of the Gofpel, &c. 65
in giving Countenance, Life and Vigour to
all wife and good Deſigns, and in enabling the
well-difpofed to fend forth a great Company
of Preachers, armed indeed, but with the Ar
mour of God, having their Loyns girt about
with Truth, and having on the Breaft-plate
of Righteoufnefs, and their Feet food with
the Preparation of the Gospel of Peace; and
above all, taking the Shield of Faith, the
Helmet of Salvation, and the Sword of the
Spirit, which is the Word of God. They
fhould in all things copy after the Royal
Examples of thofe Sovereigns (a), who have
eſtabliſhed, encouraged, or fupported this
Society. Examples, I hope, that will ne-
ver fail to have the Influence they ought
among their Subjects, and excite through-
out the Nation, what is almoſt dead and
gone, thro' the Lukewarmness of fome,
and the Iniquity of many, a fincere Love
and Zeal for true Religion and Virtue.
As it is to our Foreign Plantations in
Heathen Countries, that we owe in good
Meaſure (b) the Wealth and Glory of this
Kingdom; ſo our Merchants ought to
look
Ι
(a) See the Preface to Dr. Humphreys's Hiſtorical Account. .
(b) A Letter to the Lord Bishop of London, p. 14.
66
A Sermon before the Society
17.
2 Cor. ii. Apostles, not to corrupt the Word of God,
1 Cor. ii. but to take care that their Preaching be
4, 13. not with inticing Words of Man's Wisdom,
but that, which the Holy Ghoft teacheth,
-Ye charge them to put in Practice the
Rules relating to their Office in the Epi-
files of St. Paul to Timothy and Titus; to
Labour in all parts of their Miniſtry, and
1 Tim. iv. to give conftant Atendance to Reading, to
Exhortation, to Doctrine; and above all, to
Tit. ii. 7. fhew themfelves Patterns of good Works.
13.
THERE have, I know, been fome Com
plaints on their Account, and always muſt
2 Cor. iv. be ſo, whilft the Treasure of the Gospel
7. is lodged in earthen Veſſels, and the Mini-
ftry of it committed, as it muſt be, to frail,
and fallible Men.I wish that the Com
plainers would propofe to the Society wi-
fer Methods, than they take already to pre-
vent any Impofition. Some indeed pro-
poſe, that the Clergy of the beſt Abilities,
the greateſt Learning, or rather of moſt
Honour and Preferment, be fent abroad:
And many, I believe, would be glad, (a) that
all of them, high and low, Rich and Poor,
fhould either ftarve at Home, or be ba-
niſhed to their (b) Paradice of New-Jersey,
leav-
(a) A Difcourfe of Free-thinking, p. 43.
(b) p. 108.
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 67
12.
leaving them here to think and live as Epb. ii.
freely as Heathens ever did; having no
hope beyond this Life, and without God in
the World, as well as without Chriftian
Priests to inftruct, exhort, or reprove them.
HOWEVER, in full Anſwer to fuch as
mean the Good of our Religion by this
Propofal, it may be faid, that as every
Lay-Chriftian is at perfect Liberty to go
into Holy Orders or not; and as there are
(a) Differences of Administration in the
Church of Chrift; fo every Clergyman
may chuſe and abide in any one of them,
unlefs he have an extraordinary Call
from the Spirit of God, to any other.
His general Commiffion, as a Clergyman,
will indeed empower him to preach the
Gospel to every Creature; but he is not
thereby fo Separated for the Work of go-
ing to teach and baptize all Infidel Nations,
(b) as to be under any indiſpenſible, or pe-
culiar Obligation to this Duty; he may,
with a good Confcience, according as he is
difpofed in his own Heart, exerciſe his Mi-
nistry, either as a Paftor at Home, or as
an Evangelift in Foreign Parts; he may no
que-
Acts xiii.
2.
(a) 1 Cor. xii. 6, 28. Eph. iv. 12.
(b) A Difcourfe on Free-thinking, P. 43.
68
A Sermon before the Society
done fuch prejudice and miſchief to the
Christian Caufe, as Miracles only will, I
fear, be ever able to remove and repair, ei-
ther (a) at Home, or Abroad.
But, my
Brethren, I know what manner of Spirit
ye are of the Spirit of the Gospel of
Christ, which infpires you with godly Sim-
plicity, and Charity, as well as Zeal, and
forbids you to do Evil, that good may
come. Ye have coveted no Man's Silver
er Gold; but are continually expending
Part of your
your own Subſtance, without
any
poffible. View to worldly Gain; and that
Heathens may be 'fure of having the true
and genuine Doctrines and Precepts of our
Bleffed
: 78)
1
d
·´(a) A Second Addrefs to the Inhabitants of London, p. 26,
27-Christianity as old, &c. p. 152, 155, 406, 412. The
Writer of thefe Books ought in regard to Truth not to make
the Chriftian Religion, and Chriftian Priests, chargeable with
fuch Faults, as belong peculiarly to Popery, and Popish Priests;
for fo to do is not only wicked, but one of the principal Gauſes
of Error, as appears from the following Paffage out of the
Religion of Nature delineated, p. 60," Among other preju-
"dices, there is one of a particular Nature, which you muſt
"have obſerved to be one of the greatest Cauſes of modern
Irreligion. Whilft fome Opinions and Rites are carried to
"fuch an immoderate Height, as expofes the. Abfurdity to
"the view of almoſt every Body but them who raiſe them,
"not only Gentlemen of the Belles Lettres, but even Men
"of common' Senfe, many times fee through them; and then
*´out of ´Indignation, or an exceffive Renitence for fome
"worfe Principle) not feparating that which is True from
"that which is Falfe, they come to deny both, and fall back
"into the contrary Extreme, a contempt of all Religion in
"general.
CC
་
'
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 69
Bleffed Saviour, (a) ye fend abroad the
Scriptures themfelves, pure and perfect, in
a known Language. Ye fettle and main-
tain Minifters of God's Word and Sacra-
ments, that his publick Worſhip may be
kept up, which, together with the very
Knowledge of Him, was almoſt loſt in
many Christian Colonies for want of them.
-Ye employ Schoolmasters and Catechifts,
that all Converts may be taught and inftru-
cted in the Doctrines and Duties of Chri-
ftianity, and become Difciples by Conviction
and Choice, as well as Baptifm, and Pro-
feffion.
THE Miffionaries and Paftors, which ye
fet apart for this Work, are not decoyed
into it, or fitted for it by a Jefuitical
Education; but they are the beſt (b) that
ye can get, after the moſt prudent and ſtrict
Examination and Enquiry. The Inftru-
ctions that ye give them are not Secret, but
the ſame, as ye have from Chrift and his
Apo-
1
(b) Every Particular here mentioned is verified by Dr. Hum-
phreys's Hiftorical Account, from whence likewife the great
Ufe and Neceffity of Ministers and Preachers is evident, fince
wherever People have had none, there has been foon an End of all
Religion, or the worſt of Superftitions has crept into its place,
P. 3, 21, 33, 223. To prevent thefe Mifchiefs was one principal
Reafon, why K. William incorporated this Society. See Char-
ter, S. I.
(b) Dr. Humphreys's Hiftorical Account, Chap.IV.
70 A Sermon before the Society
look upon all (4) Improvements in Navi-
gation, and the vaft Returns of an advan-
tageous Trade, as fo many new Talents
committed to their Truft, whereby they are
enabled to convey the Knowledge of God,
and of his Christ, to every Place, from the
rifing, to the ſetting of the Sun.This is the
trueſt Way of bonouring God with the Sub-
Atance they thus get, as well as the beſt,
and moſt lafting Charity to Men. Plant-
ing of the Gospel feems indeed a Debt of
common Juftice to a People, who are in
a deplorable State of Ignorance and Error,
as well as the moſt Chriſtian Return and
Export, which Merchants can make to the
Countries that enrich them; and will
when their Lord reckoneth with them for
their Talents, be of more Worth than all
their other Plantations, or the immenfe
Treaſures they receive from them.
a
>
If it be asked in what manner they
may employ their Wealth, and in what
Channels their Charity may flow to fuch
diftant Parts, without Danger of being
:
fet
(a) Nothing can be more juſt or proper, than the Advice of
Grotius to bis Countrymen, Itaque fumpto exordio a laude
noftræ Gentis, quæ navigandi folertia cæteras facile vincat,
excitavi eos, ut hâc arte, tanquam divino beneficio, non ad
fuum tantum queftum, fed ad vera, hoc eft, Chriftiana Re-
ligionis propagationem, uterentur, De Veritate, Chrift, Rel.
p. 3.
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 71
fecreted or loft. Let them look into
the (a) Annual Accounts of this Corpora-
tion, which are made publick, on purpoſe
that the World may fee with what Pru-
dence they manage their own fmall Re-
venue, and how far they extend all the
generous Benefactions they receive; re-
nouncing the hidden Things of Darkness
and diſhoneſt Dealing, both in the Appli-
cation of their Money, and of the Means
they uſe to accomplish their Deſigns.
WAS I now fpeaking to the Romish
Society de Propaganda Fide, I would con-
jure them by all the Mercies of GoD in
Christ Jefus not to make a Merchandiſe 2 Pet. ii-
of Souls with feigned Words, and not to 3.
ftop the progrefs of his Religion, (b) by
fuperftitious Inventions, legendary Tales,
and a corrupted Mafs of Traditions, about
Doctrine, Worship and Difcipline.-I would
conjure them not to fpread it for filthy
Lucre, or temporal Dominion, by Fraud or
Fable, by Violence or Force; and indeed by
Cruelties and Barbarities, almoſt without
Example, and beyond belief; all which have
done
I 2
(a) Befides the Annual Accounts, I would recommend to them
Dr. Humphreys's Hiftorical Account.
(b) For Inftances of thefe Kinds, I must refer my Reader, to
the Sermons of Bp. Moore, and Bp. Kennett, before this So-
ciety.
:
72.
A Sermon before the Society
28.
queſtion, without Breach of Truſt, do what
St. Paul commanded the Elders of the
Church of Ephefus, to take heed unto the
Alts xx. Flock, over which the Holy Ghoft, in the
ordinary Courſe of Providence, hath made
him an Overfeer; efpecially fince the Cir-
cumſtances of Time are now much the
fame as he then foretold, and Perfons
of the greateſt Ability and Learning, are
wanting to fecure the very Flock of Christ,
and to contend for the Faith which was
ver. 29, once delivered to the Saints, becauſe grie-
Jude 3.4. vous Wolves are entred in among them,
30.
and of our own felves do Men daily ariſe,
Speaking perverfe Things, to draw away
Difciples after them, even denying the only
Lord God, and our Lord Jefus Chriſt.
IT is enough, and all that is required
of the Bishops of the Church, that they do
all they can to procure among the whole
Body of Chriftians, Laity as well as Clergy,
a fufficient Maintenance for Miniſters, whe-
ther Paftors or Evangelifts: and that they
take the beſt Care they can what Perfons
they ordain; and that none be fent abroad
upon any Miffion, but fuch as are in fome
Meaſure qualified for it, and who freely
chuſe it upon religious Principles, a love to
God, and good-will to Men. But then
all
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 73
I
I Cor ix.
14.
7.
8.
all, who do fo, fhould receive from their
Christian Brethren enough to live upon,
together with other reaſonable Advanta-
ges and Encouragements. As our Lord
and Maſter pronounces the Labourer to be Luke x. 7.
worthy of his Hire, and hath himſelf or-
dained, that they which preach the Goſpel
Should live of the Gofpel; nay, as no mili-
tary Miffionaries (to which (a) a modern
Free-thinker compares us,) is obliged to gº 1 Cor. ix.
a Warfare at any Time at his own Charges:
ſo none of us are by Reaſon, or Scripture,
bound to act with a Prefumption which an 1 Tim. v.
Infidel would not be guilty of; as we
ſhould do, if we went abroad to ſtarve
upon a Miffion, or without a Proſpect of
making a tolerable, if not a comfortable
Provifion for our Families; fuch a Pro-
vifion, as will, when we are dead, keep
them from being a Burden to others, and a
Reproach to our own Order among Unbe-
lievers; fuch a Provifion, as will in the
Judgment of a Lay-Parent anſwer the great
Expences of a learned Education: or as a
Lay-Man hopes for, when he leaves his
Native Country, and goes by choice to
fettle, or to traffick in Foreign Parts.
K
(a) A Diſcourſe on Free-thinking, p. 43.
THE
74
A Sermon before the Society
12.
Acts ix.
17, 20.
THE Cafe, I own, would be widely dif
ferent, if any of us were particularly called
by a Voice from Heaven (a) to be an Evan-
A&ts xiii.gelift among Infidels, and then ſeparated for
the Work by being filled with the Holy
17. Ghoft, and thus enabled to confirm the Word
Mar. xvi. we preach to the evil Affected, and Unbe-
lieving, and to fupport our felves by a
Power of working Miracles, and by the
Jame Signs as followed the Apoftles and Be-
lievers; to whom the Commiffion in my Text
was immediately given. There are, I be-
lieve, not many of us, (and there was a
Judas among the Twelve,) who would
not joyfully obey ſuch a Call, and leave our
Preferments, Friends, and Country for the
fake of the Gospel of Christ. But with-
out this, a Precedent from the primitive
Times can be no more drawn to oblige
the Clergy, than the Laity; for if the (b)
Multitude of them that believe, having great
Grace, and the Interefts of Religion at
Heart, would do now as they did then,
make all things common, and fell their
Houfes, Lands, and Goods, and bring the
Prices of them, tho' not to the Apoftles
Feet, yet into one common Stock, and out
(a) Acts ix. 5. 2 Tim. i. 11. (b) Acts ii. 44. iv. 32, 34.
of
:
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 75
of that contribute, as much as they would
think a reaſonable and fufficient Provi-
fion (a) for themſelves and their Children,
if they were Miffionaries; I dare engage,
that there never would be wanting a Suc-
ceffion of moft able and learned Clergymen
to preach, and propagate the Gospel in Fo-
reign Parts.
BUT to conclude: Since the Chriftian Re-
velation is in its Nature calculated for the
univerfal Good and Happineſs of all, to
whomfoever it fhall be made known; fince
no fingle Chriftian is entirely exempted from
the Duty of ſpreading its glad Tidings thro'
the World; and fince we are affured by ex-
prefs Prophecies, both in the Old and New
Teftament, (b) that the Fulneſs of the Gen-
tiles fhall come in, and that all Ifrael ſhall
be faved, "ſo that the Kingdoms of this
World fhall become the Kingdoms of our
Lord, and of his Chrift, who shall reign
for ever and ever; it must concern every
one of us in our respective Stations, and ac-
cording to the Meaſure and Degree of our
Abi-
K 2
(a) This is the end
rated Society, S. I, II.
(b) Pſalm ii. lxxii.
ii. 44. Mal. i. 11.
4. Acts xiii, 47.
propofed in the Charter of this incorpo-
Iſaiah ii. xi.
Mat. xxiv. 14.
Rom. xi. 25, 26.
xlix. 6. lii, 10,. lx.. Dan.
Luke ii. 32. iii. 6. xxi,
Rev. xi. 15. xiv. 6.
76
A Sermon before the Society
II.
Abilities and Opportunities, to do what
lieth in us towards accompliſhing ſo happy
and glorious an Event.-An Event, that
GOD will certainly bring to pafs, becauſe
he has purpofed, and foretold it. But
As i. 7. as it is not given to us to know the Times,
or the Seafons, or the Methods, which the
Father keeps within his own Knowledge
and Power; we ought to look upon our
Col. iv. felves as Fellow-workers at all Times unto
the Kingdom of GOD, and Inftruments of
his Providence; and whenever (a) a Door
of Hope is opened, we ſhould enter in, know-
ing that, if he pleaſe, no Man can fhut it
for tho' we have but a little Strength of
ourſelves, yet if we keep his Word, and do
not deny his Name, He will be with us al-
xxviii. 20. ways, even unto the End of the World: and
will, for ought we know, by his infinite
Wiſdom and Power, profper our beſt En-
deavours, however weak, inconfiderable,
and unpromiſing, till in his own appointed
time, they break out into a marvellous and
finiſhed Work.
Mat.
Luke xxi.
19.
;
In the mean while therefore we ought,
under all Difficulties, Difcouragements, and
Oppofition, to poffefs our Souls in Faith and
(a) Acts xiv. 2. 2 Cor. ii, 12. Rev. iii. 8.
Pa-
for Propagation of the Gospel,&c. 77
18.
IO.
Patience, againſt Hope, (even as Abraham Rom. iv.
did) believing in Hope: And whatever be
the Circumſtances of Time or Place, wherein
Providence has fix'd us; it is our indif-
penfible Duty never to neglect, or defpife Zech. iv.
the Day of Small Things, or to be weary Gal.vi. 9.
in well-doing: but to take Care, that we
be in the Number of thofe, who are waiting
and preparing for this great Event, and
doing all the Good they can, and whatever is
in their Power, to (a) turn many to the Faith
and Righteousness of the Gofpel; for then
whatever be our Succeſs on Earth, we ſhall
fecure to ourſelves a moft diftinguiſhing
Reward in Heaven, where we ſhall ſhine
forth, as the Sun and Stars, with the
brighteſt Rays of Glory, for ever and ever.
(a) Dan. xii. 3. Mat. xiii. 43. James v. 20.
i
FINI S
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Pariſh-Church of St Mary-le-Bow,
On FRIDAY, February 18. 1731.
By GEORGE BERKELEY, D. D.
Dean of Londonderry.
LONDON:
Printed by J. DOWNING, in Bartholomew-Clofe, near
Weft-Smithfield, 1 7 3 2.
;
$
February 18. 1733.
1
At the Anniverfary Meeting of the
Society for the Propagation of the
Goſpel in Foreign Parts.
A Greed, That the Thanks of
the SOCIETY be given to the
Reverend Mr. Dean Berkeley, for his
Sermon Preached this Day before the
SOCIETY, and that He be defired
to Print the fame.
X
David Humphreys, Secretary.
•
>
3
JOHN XVII, V. 3.
This is Life Eternal, that they may
know Thee the only true God, and
Jefus Chrift whom thou haft fent.
HAT human Kind were not
defigned merely to fojourn a
few Days upon this Earth: that
a Being of fuch Excellence as
the Soul of Man, fo capable of a nobler
Life, and having fuch a high Senſe of
Things moral and intellectual, was not crea-
ted in the fole View of being impriſoned in
an earthly Tabernacle, and partaking a few
Pains and Pleaſures which chequer this mor-
tal Life, without afpiring to any thing ei-
ther above or beyond it, is a Fundamental
Doctrine as well of Natural Religion as of
the Chriftian. It comes at once recom-
mended
A 2
4
A Sermon before the Society
mended by the Authority of Philofo-
phers and Evangelifts. And that there ac-
tually is in the Mind of Man a ſtrong in-
ftinct and defire, an appetite and tendency
towards another and a better State, incom-
parably fuperior to the prefent, both in
point of Happineſs and Duration, is no
more than every one's Experience and in-
ward Feeling may inform him. The fa-
tiety and difreliſh attending fenfual Enjoy-
ments, the reliſh for things of a more pure
and ſpiritual Kind, the reſtleſs Motion of
the Mind, from one terrene Object or pur-
fuit to another, and often a Flight or Endea-
vour above them all towards fomething un-
known, and perfective of its Nature, are fo
many figns and tokens of this better State,
which in the Style of the Goſpel is termed
Life Eternal.
AND as this is the greateſt Good that
can befal us, the very end of our Being,
and that alone which can crown and fatisfy
our Wiſhes, and without which we ſhall be
ever reſtleſs and uneafy; fo every Man,
who knows and acts up to his true Inte-
reſt, muſt make it his principal Care and
Study to obtain it: And in order to this,
he muſt endeavour to live fuitably to his
Calling, and of confequence endeavour to
make
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
5
make others obtain it too. For how can
a Chriſtian ſhew himſelf worthy of his Cal-
ling, otherwiſe than by performing the Du-
ties of it? And what Chriftian Duty is
more effentially fo, than that of Charity?
And what Object can be found upon Earth
more deſerving our Charity, than the Souls
of Men? Or, how is it poffible for the
moft beneficent Spirit to do them better
Service, than by promoting their beft and
moſt laſting Intereft, that is, by putting
them in the Way that leads to Eternal
Life.
\
WHAT this Eternal Life was, or how
to come at it, were Points unknown to the
Heathen World. It must be owned, the
wife Men of Old, who followed the Light
of Nature, faw even by that Light, that
the Soul of Man was debafed, and born
downwards, contrary to its natural Bent,
by carnal and terrene Objects; and that,
on the other hand, it was exalted, purged,
and in fome fort affimulated to the Deity,
by the Contemplation of Truth and Prac-
tice of Virtue. Thus much in general they
faw or furmifed. But then about the Way
and Means to know the one, or perform
the other, they were much at a lofs. They
were not agreed concerning the true End
of
6
A Sermon before the Society
of Mankind; which, as they faw, was mif-
taken in the vulgar Purſuits of Men; ſo
they found it much more eaſy to confute
the Errors of others, than to aſcertain the
Truth themſelves. Hence fo many Divi-
fions and Diſputes about a Point which it
moſt imported them to know, infomuch as
it was to give the Bias to human Life, and
govern the whole Tenor of their Actions
and Conduct.
BUT when Life and Immortality were
brought to Light by the Gofpel, there could
remain no Diſpute about the chief End and
Felicity of Man, no more than there could
about the Means of obtaining it, after the
expreſs Declaration of our Bleſſed Lord in
the Words of my Text; This is Life eter-
nal, that they may know thee, the only true
God, and Jefus Chrift whom thou haft fent.
For the right underſtanding of which Words
we muſt obſerve, that by the Knowledge
of God, is not meant a barren Speculation,
either of Philoſophers or Scholaftic Divines,
nor any notional Tenets fitted to produce
Diſputes and Diffentions among Men; but,
on the contrary, an holy practical Know-
ledge, which is the Source, the Root, or
Principle of Peace and Union, of Faith,
Hope, Charity, and univerfal Obedience.
A
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
7
6.
8.
A Man may frame the moſt accurate Notions,
and in one Senfe attain the exacteſt Know-
ledge of God and Chrift that human Fa-
culties can reach, and yet, notwithſtanding
all this, be far from knowing them in that
faving Senfe. For St. John tells us, that Joh. iii.
whosoever finneth, hath not feen Chrift, nor
known him. And again, He that loveth not, 1 Joh. iv.
knoweth not God. To know God as we
ought, we muſt love him; and love him
fo as withal to love our Brethren, his Crea-
tures, and his Children. I ſay, that Know-
ledge of God and Chriſt, which is Life
eternal, implies univerfal Charity, with all
the Duties ingrafted thereon, or enfuing
from thence, that is to fay, the Love of
God and Man. And our Lord exprefly
faith, He that bath my Commandments, and John xiv.
keepeth them, be it is that loveth me.
From
all which it is evident, that this faving
Knowledge of God is infeparable from
the Knowledge and Practice of his Will ;
the explicit Declaration whereof, and of
the Means to perform it, are contained
in the Goſpel, that divine Inftrument of
Grace and Mercy to the Sons of Men.
The metaphyfical Knowledge of God,
confidered in his abfolute Nature or Ef-
fence, is one thing, and to know him as
he
21.
8
A Sermon before the Society
he ftands related to us as Creator, Re-
deemer, and Sanctifier, is another. The
former kind of Knowledge (whatever it
amounts to) hath been, and may be, in
Gentiles as well as Chriftians, but not the
latter, which is Life eternal.
FROM what hath been faid, it is a plain
Confequence, that whoever is a fincere
Chriſtian, cannot be indifferent about
bringing over other Men to the Know-
ledge of God and Chriſt; but that every
one of us, who hath any Claim to that
Title, is indifpenfably obliged in Duty to
God, and in Charity to his Neighbour, to
defire and promote, fo far as there is Op-
portunity, the Converfion of Heathen and
Infidels, that fo they may become Parta-
kers of Life and Immortality. For, this
is Life eternal, to know thee the only true
God, and Jefus Chrift whom thou haft fent.
IN my preſent Difcourfe upon which
Words; I fhall,
First, CONSIDER in general, the Obli-
gation that Chriftians lie under, of
bringing other Men to the Knowledge
of the only true God, and of Jefus
Chriſt. And,
Secondly,
for the Propagation of the Gofpel. 9
*
Secondly, I fhall confider it in Reference
to this laudable Society, inftituted for
the Propagation of the Goſpel. And
under each Head, I propoſe to obviate
fuch Difficulties as may feem to re-
tard, and intermix fuch Remarks as
ſhall appear proper to forward fo
good a Work.
Now although it be very evident, that
we can really have neither a juft Zeal for
the Glory of God, nor a beneficent Love
of Man, without wishing and endeavour-
ing, as occafion ferves, to fpread the glad
Tidings of Salvation, and bring thoſe who
are benighted in the Shadow of Death, to
Life eternal, by the Knowledge of the only
true God, and of Jefus Chrift whom he
hath fent. Yet this Duty, plain and un-
doubted as it ſeems, happens to be too of-
ten overlooked, even by thofe, whofe At-
tention to other Points would make one
think their Neglect of this, not an Effect
of lukewarm Indifference, fo much as of
certain miſtaken Notions and Suppofitions.
Two principal Confiderations occur, which,
in this particular, feem to have flackened
the
}
B
IO
A Sermon before the Society
the Induſtry of ſome, otherwiſe zealous and
ferious Chriftians.
ONE I apprehend to be this, that it is
furmiſed, the Chriftian Religion is in a
declining State, which by many Symptoms
ſeems likely to end either in Popery, or a
general Infidelity. And that of Courſe a
prudent Perſon has nothing to do, but to
make fure of his own Salvation, and to
acquieſce in the general Tendency of things,
without being at any fruitlefs Pains to op-
poſe what cannot be prevented, to ſteer
againſt the Stream, or refift a Torrent,
which as it flows, gathers Strength and
Rapidity, and in the End, will be fure to
overflow, and carry all before it. When
a Man of a defponding and foreboding
Spirit hath been led, by his Obfervation of
the Ways of the World, and the prevail-
ing Humour of our Times, to think af-
ter this manner; he will be inclined to
ftrengthen this his preconceived Opinion,
as is ufual in other the like Cafes, by Mif-
application of holy Scripture: For in-
ſtance, by thofe Words of our Bleſſed Sa-
viour, When the Son of Man cometh, fhall
xviii. 8. he find Faith upon Earth? which have
been applied to this very purpofe, as im-
Luke
porting that before the final Judgment,
Chri-
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
II
Chriſtian Faith ſhould be extinguiſhed up-
on Earth; Although theſe Words do, from
the Context, feem plainly to refer to the
Deſtruction of Jerufalem, and the obſti-
nate Blindneſs of the Jews, who even
then when they felt the Hand of God,
ſhould not acknowledge it, or believe the
Roman Army to be the Inftrument of Di-
vine Vengeance, in the Day of their Vi-
fitation, by him whom they had injuri-
ouſly treated, rejected, and put to Death.
BUT, granting the former Senſe might
be ſupported by no abfurd Hypothefis, or
no improbable Guefs; yet fhall the En-
deavours of Chriftian Men for propaga-
ting the Goſpel of Chrift be foreftalled
by any Suppofitions or Conjectures what-
foever?. admitting, I fay, thofe Words
regard the future Advent of Jeſus Chriſt,
yet can any one tell how near or how far
off that Advent may be? Are not the Times
and Seaſons foreknown only to God? And
fhall we neglect a certain Duty to Day, upon
an uncertain Surmife of what is to come
hereafter? This way of thinking might
furniſh as ſtrong Reaſons againſt Preaching
at home, as abroad, within, as without the
Pale of the Church. It would be as ſpeci-
ous an Argument againſt the one as the o-
B 2
ther,
V
12
{
A Sermon before the Society
ther, but in reality can conclude againſt nei-
ther. For, as we know not when that fup-
pofed Time of general Infidelity is to be, or
whether it will be at all; fo, if it were
ever ſo fure, and ever ſo near, it would ne-
vertheleſs become us to take Care, that it
may not be an Effect of our own particu-
lar Indifference and Neglect.
BUT if we take our Notions, not from
the uncertain Interpretation of a particular
Text, but from the whole Tenor of the di-
vine Oracles, from the exprefs Promiſe and
reiterated Predictions. of our Bleffed Lord,
and his Apoſtles, we fhall believe, that
Phil. ii. Jefus Chrift is highly exalted of God, to the
9,10,11.End, that at his Name every Knee fhall
bow; and every Tongue confefs that he is the
Lord, to the Glory of God the Father. That
1 Cor.xv.he muſt Reign till he hath put all Enemies
under his Feet. That He is with us alway,
xxviii.20.even unto the End of the World. And that
The Church of the living God, the pillar and
ground of Truth, is fo far from being de-
Mat. xvi. ftroy'd by human Means, that the gates of
Hell (all the infernal Powers) shall not pre-
vail against it. Let us therefore baniſh all
fuch Conceits as may feem to juftifie our In-
dolence, as may reafon us out of all courage
and vigour in the Race that is ſet before
25.
Mat.
18.
us;
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
us; let us not, I ſay, flacken our own Hands,
nor enfeeble our own Knees, by preconceiv-
ed Fancies and Suppofitions, confidering
that as the Succefs of all Enterpriſes in
great Meaſure depends on the Spirit of the
Undertakers, fo nothing is more apt to raiſe
a Spirit than Hope; or to depreſs it, than
Defpondency. We ought therefore to ſhake
off every vain Fear in our ſpiritual Warfare.
The Number, the Prefumption, and the
Abilities of thoſe, who take Counſel toge-
ther againſt the Lord, and againſt his A-
nointed, fhould not dishearten, but rather
excite and encourage us to ftand in the Gap.
ANOTHER Confideration, that may pof-
fibly withhold divers fincere Believers from
contributing their Endeavours for bring-
ing Men to the Knowledge of God and
Chriſt, and thereby to eternal Life, is the
want of Miracles in the prefent Age. Men
naturally caft about for Reaſons to counte-
nance the Part they take. And as the Gift
of Miracles was of mighty Influence and
Help to thofe, who were commiffioned to
fpread abroad the Light of the Goſpel in
its firſt promulgation, ſo no Pretence offers
it felf more naturally to excufe a Man
from executing any purpoſe, than the want
of Authority, which, in the Opinion of
Men,
14
A Sermon before the Society
Men, cannot be without a juft Commif-
fion, nor this unleſs diftinguiſhed by thofe
proper Means and Powers that have been
known to attend it. Now, with regard to
this defect of Miracles, I ſhall beg leave to
make two Obfervations.
Firſt, It is to be obſerved, that if we have
not Miracles, we have other Advantages
which make them lefs neceffary now, than
in the firſt ſpreading of the Goſpel: Whole
Nations have found the Benefit of Chriſt's
Religion, it is protected by Princes, efta-
bliſhed and encouraged by Laws, fupported
by Learning and Arts, recommended by
the Experience of many Ages, as well as
by the Authority and Example of the wi-
feſt and moſt knowing Men. Certainly,
if the greater Part of Mankind are Gen-
tiles or Mahometans, it cannot be denied
that the moſt knowing, moſt learned, and
moft improved Nations, profeſs Chriſtia-
nity, and that even the Mahometans them-
felves bear Teftimony to the Divine Mif
fion of Jefus Chrift. Whereas therefore,
in the Beginning, a few illiterate Wan-
derers, of the meaneft of the People, had
the Prejudices, the Learning, and the Pow-
er of their own, as well as other Nations,
in one Word, the whole World, to oppofe
and
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
and overcome: Thoſe who at this Day en-
gage in the Propagation of the Goſpel, do
it upon Terms in many Refpects far more
eafy and advantageous. It is Power againſt
Weakneſs, Civility againſt Barbariſm, Know-
ledge againſt Ignorance, fome or other, if
not all thefe Advantages, in the preſent
Times, attending the Progrefs of the Chri-
ftian Religion, in whatever Part of the
World Men ſhall attempt to plant it.
IN the fecond Place we may reflect, that
if we have not the Gift of Miracles, this
is a good Reafon why we ſhould exert
more strongly thofe human Means which
God hath put in our Power; and make
our ordinary Faculties, whether of the
Head, or the Hand, or the Tongue, our
Intereft, our Credit, or our Fortune, fub-
fervient to the great Giver of them; and
chearfully contribute our humble Mite to-
wards haftening that Time, wherein all Pfalm
lxxxvi. 9
Nations whom thou haft made, shall come
and worship before thee, O Lord, and ſhall
glorifie thy Name. It is at leaſt a plain
Cafe, that the Want of Apoftolical Gifts
fhould not be pleaded as a Bar to our
doing that, which in no Refpect, either
of Difficulty or Danger, equals, or ap-
proaches the Apoftolical Office. What
Pre-
16
A Sermon before the Society
Pretence can this fupply for Mens being
quite unconcerned about the ſpreading of
the Goſpel, or the Salvation of Souls? for
Mens forgetting that they are Chriſtians,
and related to human Kind? How can
this juſtify their overlooking Opportunities
which lie in their Way, their not con-
tributing a ſmall Part of their Fortune
towards forwarding a Defign, wherein they
ſhare neither Pains nor Peril; the not be-
ftowing on it, even the cheap Affiftance
of their Speech, Attention, Counſel, or
Countenance, as Occafion offers? How un-
like is this worldly, felfiſh Indifference, to
that Account which St. Paul gives of him-
1 Cor. x. felf, that he fought not his own Profit, but
33. the Profit of many, that they may be faved.
And
yet herein he expected the Corinthi-
ans (and the fame Reafon will hold for
us) fhould be like him; for he ſubjoins, Be
ye Followers of me as I also am of Chrift.
HAVING Confidered the Duty in gene-
ral, I come now to treat of it with Refe-
rence to America, the peculiar Province of
this Venerable Society; which I ſuppoſe
well informed of the State and Progrefs of
Religion in that part of the World, by
their Correfpondencies with the Clergy
upon their Miffion. It may nevertheleſs
d.
be
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
17
be expected that one who had been engaged
in a Deſign in this very View, who hath
been upon the Place, and refided a confi-
derable Time in one of our Colonies, fhould
have obferved fomewhat worth reporting.
It is to be hoped, therefore, that one Part
of my Audience will pardon, what the
other may, perhaps, expect, while I detain
them with the Narrative of a few Things
I have obſerved, and fuch Reflections as
thereupon fuggefted themfelves; fome
part of which may poffibly be found to
extend to other Colonies:oi.
་
Rhode-Ifland, with a Portion of the ad-
jacent Continent, under the fame Govern-
ment, is inhabited by an English Colony,
confifting chiefly of Sectaries of many differ-
ent Denominations, who feem to have worn
off part of that Prejudice, which they inhe-
off-part
rited from their Anceſtors, againſt the Na-
tional Church of this Land; though it
muſt be acknowledged at the fame Time,
that too many of them have worn off a
ferious Senfe of all Religion. Several in-
deed of the better Sort are accuſtomed to
affemble themfelves regularly on the Lord's
Day for the Performance of Divine Wor-
hip, But most of thofe, who are difperfed
C
throughout
t
18
A Sermon before the Society
throughout this Colony, feem to rival
ſome well-bred People of other Countries,
in a thorough Indifference for all that is
facred, being equally carelefs of outward
Worſhip, and of inward Principles, whe-
ther of Faith or Practice. Of the Bulk
of them it may certainly be ſaid, that
they live without the Sacraments, not be-
ing ſo much as baptized: And as for their
Morals, I apprehend there is nothing to
be found in them that ſhould tempt others
to make an Experiment of their Principles,
either in Religion or Government. But
it muſt be owned, the general Behaviour
of the Inhabitants in thofe Towns where
Churches and Meetings have been long
ſettled, and regularly attended, feems for
much better, as fufficiently to fhew the
Difference, which a folemn regular Worſhip
of God makes between Perfons of the fame
Blood, Temper, and natural Faculties.
THE native Indians, who are faid to
have been formerly many Thouſands, with-
in the compaſs of this Colony, do not at
preſent amount to one Thouſand, includ-
ing every Age and Sex. And theſe are
all either Servants or Labourers for the
Engliſh, who have contributed more to
deſtroy their Bodies by the Uſe of ſtrong
Li-
for the Propagation of the Gospel. 19
Liquors, than by any Means to improve
their Minds, or fave their Souls. This
flow Poiſon, jointly operating with the
Small-Pox, and their Wars (but much
more deftructive than both) hath confu-
med the Indians, not only in our Colonies,
but alſo far and wide upon our Confines.
And having made Havock of them, is
now doing the fame Thing by thoſe who
taught them that odious Vice.
•
L
>
THE Negroes in the Government of
Rhode Iſland are about half as many more
than the Indians; and both together ſcarce
amount to a feventh Part of the whole
Colony. The Religion of theſe People,
as is natural to fuppofe, takes after that
of their Maſters. Some few are baptized;
feveral frequent the different Affemblies:
and far the greater Part none at all. An
antient Antipathy to the Indians, whom,
it ſeems, our first Planters (therein as in
certain other Particulars affecting to imi-
tate Jews rather than Chriftians) imagined
they had a Right to treat on the Foot
of Canaanites or Amalekites, together with
an irrational Contempt of the Blacks, as
Creatures of another Species, who had
no Right to be inftructed or
inſtructed or admit-
ted to the Sacraments, have proved a
main
C 2
20
A Sermon before the Society
main Obſtacle to the Converfion of theſe
poor People.
1
To this may be added, an erroneous No-
tion, that the being baptized, is inconfiftent
with a State of Slavery. To undeceive
them in this Particular, which had too
much Weight, it ſeemed a proper Step, if
the Opinion of his Majefty's Attorney and
Sollicitor-General could be procured. This
Opinion they charitably fent over, figned
with their own Hands; which was accor-
dingly printed in Rhode Iſland, and difper-
ſed throughout the Plantations. I heartily
wiſh it may produce the intended Effect.
It must be owned, our reformed Planters,
with respect to the Natives and the Slaves,
might learn from thoſe of the. Church of
Rome, how it is their Intereft and Duty to
behave. Both French and Spaniards have
intermarried with Indians, to the great
Strength, Security and -Increaſe of their
Colonies. They take Care to inſtruct both
them and their Negroes, in the Popish Re-
ligion, to the Reproach of thoſe who
fefs a better. They have alfo Biſhops and
Seminaries for Clergy; and it is not found
that their Colonies are worfe Subjects,
or depend lefs on their Mother Country,
on that Account,
pro-
IT
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
2 I
*
IT ſhould ſeem, that the likelieft Step
towards converting the Heathen, would be
to begin with the English Planters; whofe
Influence will for ever be an Obftacle to
propagating the Gofpel, till they have a
right Senſe of it themſelves, which would
fhew them how much it is their Duty to
impart it to others. The Miffionaries em-
ployed by this Venerable Society have done,
and continue to do, good Service, in bring-
ing thofe Planters to a ferious Senſe of Re-
ligion, which, it is hoped, will in time ex-
tend to others. I fpeak it knowingly, that
the Miniſters of the Goſpel, in thoſe Pro-
vinces which go by the Name of New-
England, fent and fupported at the Expence
of this Society, have, by their Sobriety of
Manners, difcreet Behaviour, and a compe-
tent Degree of uſeful Knowledge, ſhewn
themſelves worthy the Choice of thoſe who
fent them; and particularly in living on a
more friendly Foot with their Brethren of
the Separation; who, on their Part, arę al-
fo very much come off from that Narrow-
nefs of Spirit, which formerly kept them
at fuch an unamicable Diſtance from us.
And as there is reafon to apprehend, that
Part of America, could not have been thus
diſtinguiſhed, and provided with fuch a
{
Num-
22
A Sermon before the Society
Number of proper Perfons, if one half of
them had not been fupplied out of the dif
fenting Seminaries of the Country, who, in
Proportion as they attain to more liberal
Improvements of Learning, are obſerved to
quit their Prejudice towards an Epifcopal
Church ; fo I verily think it might increaſe
the Number of ſuch uſeful Men, if Provi-
fion were made to defray their Charges in
coming hither to receive holy Orders; paf-
fing and repaffing the Ocean, and tarrying
the neceffary Time in London, requiring an
Expence that many are not able to bear.
It would alſo be an Encouragement to the
Miffionaries in general, and probably pro-
duce good Effects, if the Allowance of cer-
tain Miffionaries were augmented, in pro-
portion to the Service they had done, and
the Time they had ſpent in their Miffion.
Theſe Hints I venture to fuggeft, as not
unufeful in an Age, wherein all humane
Encouragements are found more neceffary,
than at the firſt Propagation of the Gofpel.
But they are, with all due Deference and
Reſpect, fubmitted to the Judginent of this
Venerable Audience."
AFTER all, it is hardly to be expected,
that fo long as Infidelity prevails at home,
the Chriftian Religion fhould thrive and
flourish
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
23
flouriſh in our Colonies abroad. Mankind,
it muſt be owned, left to themſelves, are fo
much bewildered and benighted, with reſpect
to the Origin of that Evil which they feel,
and from which they are at a Loſs about the
Means of being freed; that the Doctrines of
the lapſed State of Man, his Reconciliation
by Chriſt, and Regeneration by the Spirit,
may reaſonably be hoped to find an eafy
Admiffion, as bringing with them Light and
Comfort, into a Mind not hardened by Im-
penitency, nor fore-clofed by Pride, nor
bias'd by Prejudice. But, fuch is the Va-
nity of Man, that no Prejudice operates
more powerfully than that in Favour of
Faſhion; and no Fafhions are fo much
followed by our Colonies, as thoſe of the
Mother Country, which they often adopt
in their Modes of living, to their great
Inconvenience, without allowing for the
Difparity of Circumftance or Climate.
This fame Humour hath made Infidelity
(as I find it too credibly reported) ſpread
in fome of our wealthy Plantations; un-
educated Men being more apt to tread in
the Steps of Libertines and Men of Fa-
ſhion, than to model themſelves by the
Laws and Inftitutions of their Mother
Country,
2:4
A Sermon before the Society
Country, or the Lives and Profeffions of
the virtuous and religious Part of it.
BUT this is not all; While thoſe abroad
are leſs diſpoſed to receive, fome at home
are, perhaps, lefs difpofed to propagate the
Goſpel, from the fame Cauſe. It is to be
feared, I fay, that the prevailing Torrent
of Infidelity, which ſtaggers the Faith of
fome, may cool the Zeal, and damp the
Spirit of others, who, judging from the
Event and Succefs of thoſe, who impugn
the Church of Chrift, may poffibly enter-,
tain fome Scruple or Surmife, whether it
may not be, for the prefent at leaſt, aban-
doned by Providence, and that human Care
muſt ineffectually interpofe, till it ſhall pleaſe
God, yet once more to shake not the Earth
only, but also the Heavens. This Point hath
been touched before, but deferves farther
Confideration: to the end, that the peculiar
Impiety of a profane Age, may not be a Bar
to thofe very Endeavours, which it felf ren-
ders more neceffary, and calls for more loud-
ly now than ever, in
!
ނ
}
!
་་་
...WHATEVER Men may think, the Arm.
of the Lord is not fhorten'd. In all this
Prevalency. of Atheiſm and Irreligion, there
is no Advantage gained by the Powers, ofi
Darkneſs, either againſt God, or godly Men,
but
}
for the Propagation of the Gofpel. 25
but only againſt their own wretched Partiſans.
The Chriftian Difpenfation is a Diſpenſation
of Grace and Favour. The Chriftian Church
a Society of Men intitled to this Grace,
on performing certain Conditions. If this
Society is diminiſhed, as thoſe who remain
true Members of it fuffer no Lofs to them-
felves, fo God lofeth no Right, ſuffereth no
Detriment, foregoeth no Good; his Grace
refifted or unfruitful, being no more loft to
him, than the Light of the Sun fhining on
defart Places, or among People who fhut
their Eyes..
ĵ
BESIDES, this Excefs, this unftemmed
Torrent of Profanenefs, may poffibly, in the
Conclufion, defeat itſelf, confirm what it
meant to extirpate, and inſtead of deſtroy-
ing, prove a Means of preferving our Reli-
gion; the evil Fruits and Effects thereof
being fo notorious and flagrant, and ſo ſen-
fibly felt, as in all likelyhood to be able to
open the Eyes, and roufe the Attention of
thofe, who may be blind and deaf to every
other Argument and Confideration. Or, who
knows but the Chriftian Church corrupted
by Proſperity, is to be reſtored and purified
by Adverſity? which may prove, for ought
we can tell, às falutary in 'future, as it hath
been in paſt Ages. Many infolent and
D
pre-
fum-
26
A Sermon before the Society
ſumptuous Foes have ſet themſelves againſt
the Church of God; whofe Hook neverthe-
leſs may be in their Noftrils, and his Bridle
in their Lips, managing and governing, even
their Rage and Folly, to the fulfilling of his
own wife Purpoſes; and who may not fail
in the End, to deal by them as he did by the
King of Affyria, when he had performed his
Work upon Șin and upon Jerufalem, puniſh-
ing their ftout Heart and high Looks. This
prefumptuous Conqueror was, without
knowing it, a Tool or Inftrument in the
Hands of that God whom he blaſphemed.
O Affyrian, the Rød of mine Anger! I will
6,7. fend him against an hypocritical Nation, and
against the People of my Wrath will I give
bim a Charge to take the Spoil, and to take
the Prey, and to tread them down like the
Mire of the Streets. Howbeit he meaneth
not fo, neither doth his Heart think ſo, but
it is in his Heart to deftroy and cut off Na-
tions not a few.
Ifa. x. 5,
THUS much at leaſt is evident: It is no
new Thing, that great Enormities fhould
produce great Humiliations, and theſe again
noble Vertues, which have often recovered
both fingle Men, and whole States, even in a
natural and civil Senfe. And if the Captivi-
ties, Diſtreſſes, and Defolations of the Jew-
ifh
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
27
iſh Church, have occafioned their Return to
God, and reinstated them in his Favour ;
nay, if it was actually foretold, whenever
they lay under the Curfe of God, at the
Mercy of their Enemies, peeled and fcat-
tered in a foreign Land, that nevertheleſs
upon their calling his Covenant to Mind,
and returning to him, the Lord their God Deut.
would turn their Captivity, and have Com-xxx. 3.
paffion upon them. I fay, if Things were ſo,
why may we not in Reaſon hope for fome-
thing analogous thereto, in behalf of the
Chriſtian Church. It cannot be denied, that
there was a great Analogy between the Jew-
ifh Inftitutions, and the Doctrines of the
Gofpel; for inftance, between the Pafchal
Lamb, and the Lamb of God flain from the
Foundation of the World; between the E-
gyptian Bondage, and that of Sin; the earthly
Canaan, and the heavenly; the fleshly Cir-
cumcifion, and the fpiritual. In theſe and
many other Particulars, the Analogy ſeems fo
plain, that it can hardly be difputed. To be
convinced that the Law of Mofes, and the
Jewiſh Oeconomy were Figures and Sha-
dows of the Evangelical, we need only look
into the Epiſtle to the Hebrews. May we
not therefore, in purſuance of this fame A-
1
D 2
nalogy,
28
A Sermon before the Society
Ckv.
Deut.
xxviii. I.
23.
nalogy, ſuppoſe a fimilar Treatment of the
Jewiſh and Chriftian Church?
LET us then fee, on what Terms the
former ftood with God, in order to diſcover
what the latter may reaſonably expect. The
folemn Denunciation to the Jews was, If thou
fhalt kearken diligently to the Lord thy God,
to obferve and to do all his Commandments,
which I command thee this Day, the Lord thy
God will fet thee on high above all the Nations
of the Earth. But in caſe of Diſobedience,
it is added among many other Threats and
Ver. 22, Maledictions: The Lord fhall fmite, thee
with Blafting and with Mildew: and the
Heaven that is over thy Head ſhall be Braſs,
and the Earth that is under thy Feet fhall be
Ver. 28. Iron. And again, The Lord fhall fmite thee
with Madness, and Blindness, and Aftoniſh-
ment of Heart. Have not the People of this
Land drawn down upon it, by more Ways
than one, the juſt Judgments of Heaven?
Surely we have felt in a Metaphor the firſt
of the forementioned Judgments; and the
laft hath been literally fulfilled upon us.
Is it not vifible that we are lefs knowing,
leſs vertuous, leſs reaſonable, in proportion
as we are leſs religious? Are we not grown
drunk and giddy with Vice and Vanity
and Preſumption, and Free-thinking, and
Extra-
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
29
Extravagance of every kind? to a Degree
that we may truly be faid to be ſmitten with
Madness, and Blindness, and Aftonishment of
Heart.
As antiently moft unchriſtian Schifms and
Difputes, joined with great Corruption of
Manners, made way for the Mahometan in
the Eaft, and the Papal Dominion in the
Weft; even fo here at home in the laft Cen-
tury, a weak Reliance upon human Politics
and Power on the one hand, and enthufi-
aftic Rage on the other, together with car-
nal Mindedneſs on both, gave occaſion to
introduce Atheiſm and Infidelity. If the
temporal State, and outward Form of the
Jewish Church was, upon their Defection,
overturned by Invaders, in like manner, when
Chriſtians are no longer governed by the
Light of Evangelical Truth, when we reſiſt
the Spirit of God, are we not to expect, that
the Heaven above will be as Brass, that the
Divine Grace will no longer fhower down
on our obdurate Hearts, that our Church
and Profeffion will be blafted by licentious
Scorners, thofe Madmen, who in Sport Scat-
ter Firebrands, Arrows and Death? As all
this is no more than we may reaſonably fup-
pofe will enfue upon our Backfliding, fo we
may,
30
A Sermon before the Society
;
!
may, with equal Reaſon, hope it will be re-
medied upon our Return to God.
?
FROM what hath been faid it follows,
that in order to propagate the Goſpel a-
broad, it is neceffary we do it at home, and
extend our Charity to domeftic Infidels, if
we would convert or prevent foreign ones.
So that a View of the declining State of Re-
ligion here at home, of thoſe things that
produced this Declenfion, and of the proper
Methods to repair it, is naturally connected
with the Subject of this Difcourfe. I fhall
therefore beg your Patience, while I juſt
mention a few Remarks or Hints, too ob-
vious, perhaps, in themſelves to be new or
unknown to any prefent, but too little vi-
fible in their Effects, to make one think
they are, by all, much attended to:
SOME, preferring Points notional or ri-
tual to the Love of God and Man, confider
the National Church only as it ſtands oppo-
fed to other Chriftian Societies. Theſe ge-
nerally have a Zeal without Knowledge, and
the Effects are ſuitable to the Cauſe; they
really hurt what they ſeem to eſpouſe.. O
thers more folicitous about the Diſcovery
of Truth, than the Practice of Holiness,
employ themſelves, rather to ſpy out Er-
rors in the Church, than enforce its Pre-
cepts.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
3I
ا
cepts. Thefe, it is to be feared, poftpone
the great Intereſts of Religion to Points of
leſs Concern, in any Eyes but their own.
But furely they would do well to confider,
that an humble, though confufed or indi-
ftinct, Faith in the Bond of Charity, and
productive of good Works, is much more
Evangelical than an accurate difputing and
conceited Knowledge.
A Church which contains the Fundamen-
tals, and nothing fubverfive of thoſe Fun-
damentals, is not to be fet at naught by any
particular Member; becauſe it may not, in
every Point, perhaps, correfpond with his
Ideas, no not, though he is fure of being
in the right. Probably there never was, or
will be, an eſtabliſhed Church in this World,
without vifible Marks of Humanity upon
it. Saint Paul fuppofeth, that on the Foun-
dation of Jefus Chrift, there will be human
Superstructures of Hay and Stubble, things
light and trivial, wrong or fuperftitious,
which indeed is a natural Confequence of
the Weakneſs and Ignorance of Man. But
where that living Foundation is rightly laid
in the Mind, there will not fail to grow and
fpring from thence thoſe Vertues and Gra-
ces, which are the genuine Effects and To-
kens of true Faith, and which are by no
means
1 Cor. iii.
12.
32
A Sermon before the Society
4.
means inconſiſtent with every Error in The-
ory, or every needlefs Rite in Worſhip.
THE Chriftian Religion was calculated
for the Bulk of Mankind, and therefore
cannot reaſonably be ſuppoſed to confiſt in
fubtle and nice Notions. From the time
that Divinity was confidered as a Science,
and human Reafon enthroned in the San-
ctuary of God, the Hearts of its Profeffors
feem to have been lefs under the Influence
of Grace. From that time have grown ma-
ny
unchriſtian Diſſentions and Controverſies,
Tim. vi. of Men knowing nothing, but doating about
Questions and Strife of Words, whereof com-
eth Envy, Strife, Railings, evil Surmifes, per-
verfe Difputings of Men of corrupt Minds,
and deftitute of Truth. Doubtless, the ma-
king Religion a notional Thing, hath been
of infinite Differvice. And whereas its ho-
ly Myſteries are rather to be received with
Humility of Faith, than defined and mea-
fured by the accuracy of human Reafon; all
Attempts of this kind, however well inten-
ded, have viſibly failed in the Event; and
inſtead of reconciling Infidels, have, by cre-
ating Diſputes and Heats among the Pro-
feffors of Chriſtianity, given no ſmall Ad-
vantage to its Enemies.
To
for the Propagation of the Gospel. 33.
To conclude, if we proportioned our
Zeal to the Importance of Things: If we
could love Men whoſe Opinions we do not
approve: If we knew the World more,
and liked it lefs: If we had a due Senfe
of the Divine Perfection and our own De-
fects: If our chief Study was the Wif
dom from above, deſcribed by St. Paul:
And if, in order to all this, that were done
in Places of Education, which cannot fo
well be done out of them: I fay, if theſe
Steps were taken at home, while proper
Meaſures are carrying on abroad, the one
would very much forward or facilitate
the other. As it is not meant, ſo it must
not be underſtood, that foreign Attempts
ſhould wait for domeftic Succefs, but on-
ly that it is to be wished they may co-
operate. Certainly if a juft and rational,
a genuine and fincere, a warm and vigo-
rous Piety, animated the Mother-Country,
the Influence thereof would foon reach
our Foreign Plantations, and extend through-
out their Borders. We ſhould foon ſee
Religion fhine forth with new Luftre and
Force, to the Converfion of Infidels, both
at home and abroad, and to the cafting 2 Cor. x.
down high Imaginations, and every Thing
E
that
5.
34
A Sermon before the Society, &c.
that exalteth it felf against the Knowledge
of God, and bringing into Captivity every
Thought to the Obedience of Christ.
To whom with the FATHER, and
the HOLY GHOST, be afcribed all
Praiſe, Might, Majefty, and Domi-
nion, now and for ever.
FINIS
A
ERN
>
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gofpel in
Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Pariſh-Church of St Mary-le-Bow,
On FRIDAY, February 16. 1732.
By the Right Reverend Father in Go »,
RICHARD, Lord Bishop of LICHFIELD
and COVENTRY.
LONDON:
Printed by J. DOWNING, in Bartholomew-Cloſe, near
Weft-Smithfield, 1733.
February 16. 1732.
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the
Society for the Propagation of the
Goſpel in Foreign Parts.
A
Greed, That the Thanks of the
SOCIETY be given to the
Right Reverend the Lord Biſhop of
Lichfield and Coventry, for his Ser-
mon Preached this Day before the
SOCIETY, and that He be defired
to Print the fame.
David Humphreys, Secretary.
+
3
PSALM ii. 7, 8.
I will declare the Decree: the Lord
bath faid unto me, Thou art my Son,
this day have I begotten thee. Ask
of me, and I ſhall give thee the Hea-
then for thine Inheritance, and the
uttermoft Parts of the Earth for thy
Poffeffion.
HAT the Book of Pfalms, in
general, is not a mere Collec-
tion of pious Compofitions of
David and others, but abounds
with Prophecies relating to the Meffiah, can-
not but appear very clearly to us Chrif-
tians, on the expreſs Authority of our Blef-
fed Lord; who, after his Refurrection, faid
thus to his Difciples; Thefe are the Words Luke
which I spake unto you, while I was yet with xxiv. 44,
A 2
45, &c.
you,
4
A SERMON before the Society
you, that all things must be fulfilled which
were written in the Law of Mofes, and in
the Prophets, and in the Pfalms concerning
me. Then opened be their Understanding, that
they might understand the Scriptures: (that
is, the Facts relating to himſelf in the
Pfalms, among the reft) and faid nnto them,
Thus it is written, (that is, likewife in the
Pfalms) and thus it behoved Chrift to ſuffer,
and to rife from the Dead the third Day;
and that Repentance and Remiffion of Sins
fhould be preached in his Name among all
Nations, beginning at Jerufalem. This is
indeed fo evident a Truth, that it has been
confeffed by the Jews themſelves; the more
eminent of whom have acknowledged that
many of the P/alms are Prophetical of the
Meffiab.
AND that the fecond Pfalm in particu-
lar, whatever relation it might more im-
mediately bear to the Affairs of David or
Solomon, confidered as Types of the Meffiah,
is to be interpreted of the Meffiah himſelf,
is moſt certain from the Teftimonies of ſe-
veral of the Sacred Writers of the New Tef-
tament, with which thofe of the moſt learn-
ed Jewiſh Rabbins do likewiſe concur. For
the beginning of this Pfalm is applied to
Jefus Chrift by Peter and John, and an
whole
1
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
5
Acts
whole Chriſtian Affembly with them, who
are faid to have joined with one accord in as iv.
praifing that God, who by the Mouth of his 24, 25,
Servant David (a little before ftiled a Pro-.
phet by St. Peter) hath faid, Why did the Acts ii.
Heathen rage, and the People imagine vain 30.
things? The Kings of the Earth stood up,
and the Rulers were gathered together againſt
the Lord, and against his Christ. For of a
Truth against thy holy Child Jefus, whom
thou haft anointed, both Herod and Pontius
Pilate, with the Gentiles and the People of
Ifrael, were gathered together, for to do what-
foever thy Hand and thy Counsel determined
before to be done. And now, Lord, behold
their Threatnings, &c. To which it is ſub-
joined, as if it were defigned to fhew that
this Interpretation of the fecond Pfalm was
inſpired; And when they had prayed, the Ver. 31.
Place was fhaken where they were aſſembled
together, and they were all filled with the
Holy Ghost, and they spake the Word of
God with Boldness. Indeed this laft Paffage
plainly alludes to the following words of
this Pfalm; He that fitteth in Heaven ſhall Ver. 4. 5,
laugh, the Lord fhall have them in Derifion :
He ſhall Speak unto them in his Wrath, and
vex them in his fore Diſpleaſure. And the
additional Account of the vain Threatnings
of
&c.
6
A SERMON before the Society
17, 21.
1
of the Apostles and firſt Diſciples, by the
Acts iv. 2, Jewish Governours, affembled in Council,
who were grieved and cut to the Heart by
Acts v.17, their repeated Miracles and firm Refolu-
32. tion, is an Illuftration of thefe Prophetical
Words of the Pfalmift; who goes on thus,
Yet have I fet my King upon my holy Hill
of Sion: or, according to the Vulgate Ver-
fion, with a very fmall Variation of the
preſent Hebrew Text, and poffibly taken
from a more ancient Copy then extant, I
am fet. King upon my holy Hill of Sion, as
ſpoke in the Perfon of the Mefiah him-
felf. However, the Senfe of the Prophecy
is much the fame. For out of Sion was to
Ifa. ii. 3.
go forth the Law, and the Word of the Lord
from Jerufalem. And the earlieſt Accounts
of the Church acquaint us, that the Upper-
room, where the Difciples firft affembled,
was on Mount Sion. With regard to the
King who was to be fet upon the holy Hill of
Sion, he is understood by fome of the moft
celebrated Jewiſh Rabbins, and particularly
by Farchi and Saadias, to be the King
Meffiah. But whether thofe Words are
ſuppoſed to have been fpoke by GoD him-
felf, or by the Meffiah, the Words of our
Text, which immediately follow, are a-
greed to be ſpoke in the Perfon of the Mef-
fiab;
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7.
!
fiah; namely, I will declare the Decree: the
Lord bath faid unto me, Thou art my Son,
this day have I begotten thee. Ask of me,
and I fhall give thee the Heathen for thine
Inheritance, and the uttermoft Parts of the
Earth for thy Poffeffion. That the former
Part of thefe Words belongs to the proper
Character of the Meffiah, or Jefus Chrift,
is more than once afferted by St. Paul, and
that on two different Accounts; the one,
as Jefus was declared (among other Reaſons
for that Title) to be the Son of God with Rom. i. 4.
Power, by his Refurrection from the Dead:
for, fays that Apoſtle, God hath fulfilled the A&ts xiii.
Promife, which was made unto the Fathers, 32, 33.
unto us their Children, in that he hath raiſed
up Jefus again; as it is also written in the
Second Pfalm, Thou art my Son, this day
have I begotten thee. The other Citation
of this Paffage is in an Application of it to
Jefus Chrift, with regard to his Priefly
Office; on which Occafion St. Paul ſpeaks
thus; Chrift glorified not himself to be made
an High-Priest, but he that ſaid unto him,
Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten
thee. As for the other Part of the Text,
the Connexion of it with what precedes it
feems to be this: When, according to the
Divine Decree, the Meffiah was declared to
be
Heb. v. 5.
8 A SERMON before the Society
A4
be the Son of God and King, he was to be
Inaugurated into his Royal Office, by af-
figning him a proper Dominion, which is
no leſs than the Inheritance, or promifed
Poffeffion, of the Gentile Nations, even in
the remoteſt Parts of the Earth; who in
the divine Deſignation were taken into the
peculiar People of the Meffiah, and would
actually become his Subjects in the Fulneſs
of Time. This is the Mystery that was hid
from Ages and Generations of the vulgar
Jews, tho' not from the Prophets among
them; but was more clearly revealed by
the Spirit to the Apoftles, and particularly
to St. Paul, the Apoftle of the Gentiles,
who laboured more abundantly than they all,
in reducing the Gentiles to the Church of
Chriſt, and in inveſting his Lord with the
Poffeffion of the Empire of the Heathen
World, which was to be incorporated with
the Jews, upon their Reſtoration to the
Divine Favour. As to what follows in the
fecond Pfalm, Thou shalt break them with
a Rod of Iron, thou shalt dash them in pieces
like a Potter's Veſſel, it feems to be an Ex-
preffion that bears fome Refemblance to
Hag. ii. 6, the lofty one of Haggai, I will shake all
Nations, and the Defire of all Nations fhall
come: for it probably relates to the great
Heb. v. 9,
7.
Com-
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
Pfal. ii.
10, II,
Commotions of the World, and Revolu-
tions of Empires, that would previouſly
contribute to the fucceſsful Propagation of
Chriſtianity in the latter Ages of the World,
as they did in Fact prepare the Way for
the ſpreading of the Goſpel at firſt through-
out the Roman Empire. What remains of
this Prophetical Pfalm is an Admonition to
Kings and others in Authority, to be fo 12.
wife as to receive the Diſcipline of Chriſt,
and to kiss, or do Homage to, the Son
of GoD as King of Kings, (poffibly by way
of Allufion to the known Ceremony of
kiſſing the Hands, or Feet, or Garment, of
earthly Kings) under the Penalty of his
high Diſpleaſure and their own Ruin; tho'
indeed, thofe Words may likewiſe relate to
the Jewish Ceremony of Diſciples faluting
the Rabbi that inftructed them, in token of
Submiffion to his Authority. However,
both theſe Senfes are comprehended under
the Phraſe, Kiss the Son, as they are very
applicable to the Meſſiak, both as a King and
a Prophet; on a well-grounded Dependence
upon whofe Favour, in each Capacity, a
·Bleffing is pronounced: Bleſſed are all they Ver. 12.
that put their Trust in him.
HAVING thus at large explained the
Text, by its Connexion with what goes
B
before
1
IO
A SERMON before the Society
before and after it; I fhall take Occafion
from it to treat of the Univerfality of the
Kingdom of Chrift, and enquire how we
may beſt contribute to it, in, the following
Method.
FIRST, I fhall fhew that all Nations
fhall, in due time, be converted to the
Chriſtian Religion, according to the
conftant tenour of ancient Prophecy.
SECONDLY, Since all Nations are not,
in fact, converted as yet to Chrifti-
anity, I shall enquire whether the per-
formance of Miracles, confidered as
the moſt powerful Method of canfirm-
ing the Truth of any. Religion, and
therefore of propagating it, is to be
expected at prefent, in order to the
Converfion of Infidel Nations to Chrif
tianity.
THIRDLY, Tho' Miracles are not to be
expected at preſent, yet may they juſtly
be fo before the End of the World,
to facilitate and perfect the Converſion
of Infidel Nations. And,
FOURTHLY
for the Propagation of the Gefpel.
II
FOURTHLY, I ſhall confider what are
the moſt proper Methods to be now
uſed, in order to convert the unbe-
lieving part of the World to Chrif
tianity, and more eſpecially the Pa-
gans in America, as thofe with whom
this Society for Propagating the Gof
pel in Foreign Parts, is more imme-
diately concerned.
FIRST, I am to fhew that all Nations
fhall, in due time, be converted to the
Chriftian Religion, according to the con-
ſtant tenour of ancient Prophecy.
IT would fwell a Difcourfe of this na-
ture to an unuſual Bulk, if I made an In-
duction of all the Prophecies that relate to
this Subject. However, I fhall felect a few
of them that are fufficient to evince that
the Kingdom of Christ is univerfal, not
only in the Divine Intention, and in its
own Nature and Tendency, but that all
Nations will actually be converted to Chrif
tianity. And the first I shall mention, is
the early Promife of Gop to Abraham, Gen. xii.
that in him all the Families of the Eanth
fhall be bleſſed. Which is explained after-
wards by GOP, as covenanting with him,
B 2
not
3.
I 2
A SERMON before the Society
not merely of Abraham himſelf, but of his
Gen.xviii. Seed, in which all the Nations of the Earth
xxii. 18. fhall be bleſſed. And thefe Promiſes are ex-
&c.
18.
prefly applied by St. Paul to Jefus Chrift,
as the one, the chofen, and diſtinguiſhed
Gal. iii. 8, Seed; to thy Seed, fays he, which is Christ;
14, 16, and therefore he afferts, that the Gospel was
preached before unto Abraham, and that it
was forefeen that God would juſtify the Hea-
then through Faith, in virtue of the Divine
Promiſes, that in him and his Seed all Na-
tions fhall be blefed.
Pfal. xxii.
1, 8, 16,
28.
1
THAT the 22 Pſalm, is Prophetical of
Chriſt, appears very clearly, not only from
our Lord's Application of part of it to
18, 27, himſelf, whilft he was hanging on the
Croſs, but from the Evangelift's Interpre-
tation of it by the feveral Circumftances
of his Paffion, confidered as foretold in it.
And in this Pfalm it is exprefly foretold,
that all the ends of the World fhall remem-
ber and turn unto the Lord, and all the
Kindreds of the Nations fhall worſhip before
him: for the Kingdom is the Lord's. On
which I fhall only obferve, that by the ne-
ceffary Connexion of this Paragraph with
the previous diftinguiſhing Characters of his
Paffion, theſe Words are to be underſtood
of the univerſal Kingdom of the Meffiab.
AN-
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
11, 17.
ANOTHER Pfalm I cannot omit, in
which are theſe memorable Paffages; All Pfal. lxxii.
Kings fhall fall down before him; all Na-
tions fhall ferve him. Men ſhall be blef-
fed in him; all Nations ſhall call him blef-
fed. Paffages theſe of a Pfalm intitled, For
Solomon, which cannot literally be applied
to him; but muft neceffarily be extended
farther, and be transferred from him, as a
Type of Chrift, to Chrift himself; and, in
the proper Senſe of the Words, a greater
Perſon than Solomon is here to be under-
ftood. But having already enlarged on the
Prophecy of Chrift, as contained in the fe-
cond Pfalm, I fhall add no more Teſtimo-
nies out of the Book of Pfalms, relating
to the univerfal Kingdom of Chrift, how
numerous foever they may be.
As for the Evangelical Prophet, he a-
bounds with fo many fublime Deſcriptions
of the Kingdom of the Meffiah, as ſpread
throughout the World, and of the flowing Ifa. ii. 2.
in of all Nations into it, together with the
Reſtoration of the Jews to the Divine Fa-
vour, and their readmiffion into the Church,
that to enumerate thoſe Paffages would be
the ſame thing, as to tranſcribe a very con-
fiderable part of Ifaiah's Prophecies. It is xlix. 6,18,
enough therefore to refer to them in ge- 20,
neral,
20, &t.
: 14
A SERMON before the Society
neral, but more efpecially to thofe recorded
Ifa. lii. 1, in the 49th, 52d, and 60th Chapters of that
1x. 2, 3, eminently diftinguiſhed Prophet.
E5°C.
&c.
+
THE prophetical Account of the uni-
verfal Kingdom of the Meffiah, as given
Dan. vii. by Daniel, is fo very emphatical, that it
13, 14, well deferves to be here repeated: namely,
Behold one like the Son of man came with
the Clouds of Heaven, and came to the An-
tient of days, and they brought him near before
ch. ii. 44. him. And there was given him Dominion,
&c.
See too
and-Glory, and a Kingdom, that all people,
nations, and languages fhould ferve him: bis
Dominion is an everlasting Dominion, which
fhall not pass away, and his Kingdom that
which shall not be deftroyed. Who this Son
of Man is, we Chriftians cannot but be well
apprized, when we recollect that it is the
diftinguishing Title which our Lord gave
himfelf; which probably was founded on
this very Paffage of Daniel; and efpe-
cially when we compare the Account of his
coming with the clouds of Heaven, as given
by Daniel, with the Son of man's coming
in the clouds of Heaven, with power and
great Glory, and acting as a King, before
whom all Nations were gathered, as given
30. by St. Matthew.
Mat. xxiv.
xxv. 31,
32.
ر
Malachi
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
Malachi too is very exprefs in his Pro-
phecy about the ſpreading of the Knowledge
and Worship of the true God throughout
the whole Gentile World. Says he, From Mal. i. 11.
the rifing of the Sun, even unto the going
down of the fame, my Name ſhall be great
among the Gentiles; and in every place, In-
cenfe fhall be offered unto my Name: for
my Name fhall be great among the Heathen,
faith the Lord of Hofts. A Paffage, which
can only be explained by the univerſal King-
dom of Chrift, as it is contradiftinguished
from the narrow Limits of the Jewish
Church, and by the fpiritual Worship of
GOD under the Gofpel, as fignified by thofe
Symbols of Prayers and Praiſes that fhould
every where be offered up to GOD. And
indeed thefe Words are, in fome meaſure,
now fulfilled by the Propagation of the
Goſpel from the Eaft to the remoteft Weft,
even to America itſelf.
WITH regard to the New Teftament,
two or three Paffages out of it will be fuf-
ficient to fhew the univerfal Extent of the
Kingdom of Christ. He himself affured his
Difciples, that the Gospel of the Kingdom Mat.xxiv.
fhall be preached in all the World, for a Wit-
nefs unto all Nations, and then fhalt the end
come. And tho' all the World, öan ñ Biurµéen,
may
14.
16
A SERMON before the Society
may be there interpreted the Roman World
or Empire, throughout which the Goſpel
was preached before the end of the Jewish
Polity, and the Deſtruction of Jerufalem;
yet as the coming of that end was Typical
of the end of the World, properly fo called,
and as the Expreffion, All Nations, is of a
greater Latitude, and likewiſe as the very
fame high prophetical Figures are uſed of
each Coming of Christ to put an end to both,
this Prophecy may be justly confidered as
comprehending both. And more eſpecially
fo, fince in the parallel Account of St. Luke
our Lord has added, that Jeruſalem ſhall be
xxi. 24. troden down of the Gentiles, until the times
of the Gentiles be fulfilled; that is, till
all Nations ſhall be incorporated with the
Chriſtian Church, agreeably to the foremen-
tioned ancient Prophecies. And therefore
our Lord, at his leaving the World, com-
manded his Diſciples to Profelyte all Nations
to his Religion; and in doing fo, he affured
them he would be with them, or affiſt them,
even unto the end of the World.
Luke
Mat.
xxviii. 19,
20.
ST. Paul, on the like prophetical Occa-
fion, uſes ſeveral Expreffions that are equi-
valent to thofe of his great Maſter. He
Rom. xi. fays, that Blindness in part is happened unto
15, 25, Ifrael, until the Fulness of the Gentiles (as
26.
fore-
2
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
foretold by the Prophets) be come in. And
So all Ifrael fhall be faved; that is, reftored to
a Capacity of Salvation, by being converted
to Chriſtianity: And he adds, that the re-
ceiving them into the Church of Chriſt, Jhall
be Life from the Dead to the Gentile World;
as likewiſe, that God hath concluded them
all in unbelief, that he might have Mercy up-
on all; that is, upon all Jews and Gentiles,
by and in Confequence of their Converfion
to Chriſtianity.
15.
I WILL add but one Paffage more upon
this Head, but that a very fignificant one,
out of the Revelation of St. John; a myſti-
cal Book indeed, but what is generally ac-
knowledged to comprehend the Hiſtory of
the Church, till the Confummation of all
Things. The Paffage is this; And the fe- Rev. xi.
venth Angel founded, and there were great
Voices in Heaven, faying, The Kingdoms of
the World [αι βασιλειαι το κόσμο, not της οικο
Mons] are become the Kingdoms of our Lord
and of his Christ, and he shall reign for ever
and ever. And this is best explained by the
neighbouring Paſſages that relate to it, name-
ly, that in the Days of the Voice of the fe- Rev. x. 7.
venth Angel, when he shall begin to found, the
Mystery of God should be finished, as he hath
declared to his Servants the Prophets: And
C
again,
18
ASERMON before the Society
18.
again, it preſently follows this Completion
of the antient Prophecies, that the Time of
Rev. xi. the Dead is come, that they should be judged,
and that God should give reward unto his Ser-
vants the Prophets, and to the Saints, and
them that fear his Name, &c. So that upon
the whole, we find the univerfal Kingdom
of Chriſt upon Earth actually eſtabliſhed,
and all the antient Prophecies, about the
Converfion of all Nations to the Chriftian
Religion, exactly fulfilled, before the Con-
fummation of all Things.
Matt.
I Now proceed to the ſecond Head pro-
pofed, namely, that, Since all Nations are
not in Fact converted as yet to Chriſtianity,
I fhall enquire whether the Performance of
Miracles, confider'd as the most powerful
Method of confirming the Truth of any Re-
ligion, and therefore of propagating it, is
to be expected at preſent, in order to the
Converſion of Infidel Nations to Chriſti-
anity.
THOUGH Our Lord has all Power given
xxviii. 18. unto him both in Heaven and Earth, and all
Pf. viii. 6. Things are ſaid to be put in Subjection under
Heb. ii. 8. bis Feet; yet, as the Apoſtle obſerves, we ſee
not yet all Things put under him; neither are
all Nations, even after feventeen Centuries,
actually reduced to their juft Subjection to
•
him.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
19
him. It must be acknowledged, that fome
great Empires and States in the Eaſtern and
Southern Parts of the World, even where
Chriſtianity flouriſhed in the earlieſt Ages,
are over-run with Mahometifm; and that o-
thers, both in thoſe, and in the Weſtern and
Northern Climates, ftill retain their antient
Heathenifm; as likewiſe, that the Jews, who
are judicially difperfed thro'out the World,
do ſtill moſt obftinately adhere to their´an-
tient Prejudices. So that without entring
into particular Calculations, it is confeffed,
that the greater Part of the Earth is not yet
Chriftian. The Queſtion then that ariſes is,
whether Miracles, which antiently reduced
the Roman Empire to the Obedience of Faith,
are reaſonably to be now expected, as the
ſtrongeſt Proofs that can poffibly be given of
the Truth of the Chriſtian Religion, in or-
der to convert the unbelieving Part of Man-
kind to it. That theſe are the ſtrongeſt
Proofs poffible, is very evident, when we
confider that they are the moſt authentick
Credentials that a Perfon is fent by God, and
are an undoubted Seal from Heaven of his
Commiffion; as well as that they have a pe-
culiar fitneſs to awaken the Curiofity of the
World, and are the moſt univerſal Methods
of equally convincing the Ignorant and
Learned,
C 2
20
ASERMON before the Society
Learned, as they are Appeals to the Senfes
as well as to the Reafon of Mankind. This
being permiſed, it is pretended that Mira-
cles may be now expected, on fuppofition
that there is a Parity of Circumftances in
the Cafe; that is, that there is the fame Sin-
cerity and Zeal in a Miffionary at prefent,
as there was in an Apoſtle or others in the
primitive Times: and it is certain, that the
Exigencies and Prejudices of Unbelievers run
as high as ever in feveral Parts of the World,
and therefore demand the higheſt Proofs
poffible for their Conviction. And where
theſe Circumſtances concur on both Sides, it
is plaufibly faid, that God cannot be fuppo-
fed to be wanting in carrying on fo good,
fo important, and ſo neceffary a Cauſe, by a
miraculous Interpofition in Favour of Chriſ-
tianity.
Now not to infift on this Occafion, that
inquifitive Perfons in fome Pagan Nations,
tho' not in all, may be favoured with Op-
portunities of knowing the Hiftory of the
Chriſtian World, and particularly of being
affured of the reality of thofe miraculous
Facts of our Lord and his Apoftles, that e-
ſtabliſhed once for all the Truth of the Chrif
tian Religion, and therefore muſt be ap-
prized, that this Confirmation of it is of the
fame
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
21
fame ftanding Force for ever; in fuch a
Cafe as this, it is evident that new Mi-
racles need not be repeated for the Satisfac-
tion of fuch Perfons, which they are capable
of obtaining themſelves from the old ones.
This indeed is acknowledged not to be often
the Cafe of Pagans: and therefore I ſhall here
confider Unbelievers as ignorant of thoſe
Hiftories of antient Times that are common
with us, and very much confirm the Truth
of Chriſtianity. However, in theſe Circum-
ſtances it will not follow, that the foremen-
tioned Suppofition of Parity is of any force.
For the Propagators of the Goſpel in Infi-
del Nations cannot, without great Pre-
fumption, depend on their being fupported
by Miracles, in Confirmation of their Doc-
trine, unleſs God thinks fit to reveal expreſs-
ly to them, that he will fo far co-operate
with them, as to confirm their Word by Signs
following, as he did at firſt to the Apoſtles;
or, unleſs he`gives them full Affurance by
fome previous Miracle, that he will affift
them afterwards in a miraculous Manner, as
he did to Mofes, before he ſent him into E-
gypt for the Deliverance of the Ifraelites.
As for the former, tho' no doubt God can
ſo reveal his Intention to ſupport a Miffio-
nary by Miracles, as to convince him of the
Truth
22
A SERMON before the Society
it may
of-
Truth of fuch a Revelation, yet
ten happen that a Perfon of a warm Piety
and great
Zeal in the Work of Converfion,
may be impoſed on himſelf by the Enthu-
fiaſm of his Temper, and may miſtake it for
Divine Revelation. And therefore the latter
Criterion, namely, that of a previous Mi-
racle, feems eceffary to diftinguish the one
from the other, and to give a rational Satif-
faction to fuch a Perſon that he is under no
Deluſion of Imagination. And indeed if a
Miffionary, without ſome ſuch previous Mi-
racle, be ſuppoſed to put the ſtreſs of the
Chriſtian Cauſe upon his Expectation to be
feconded by Miracles, and fhall not happen
in Fact to be ſupported by God in his Pre-
tenſions, it is evident, that inſtead of propa-
gating the Goſpel among Infidels, he would
expoſe himſelf and his Religion to Contempt
by his ill Succeſs, and would ruin the Cre-
dibility of it for ever among thoſe Unbeliev-
ers, by his too fanguine Hopes and ill-founded
Pretenfions. It is obfervable therefore in the
Accounts of Chriftianity, as propagated in the
Eaſtern Countries by the Miffionaries of the
Church of Rome, that thofe Writers, tho'
they artfully intermix fome forts of Miracles
in their Narratives, and tho' they on other
Occafions affert that the Performance of
Miracles
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
23
Miracles is one of the Notes of the true
Church; yet they do not ſpeak of thoſe Mi-
racles with any great Affurance, nor lay the
ſtreſs of their Converfion of Pagans upon
them. And as they do not put the Chriſtian
Cauſe upon that Bottom, ſo thoſe few Mi-
racles they infinuate to be wrought by them
abroad, and in remote Countries, ftand juft-
ly fufpected, for the fake of thofe falfe Mi-
racles they have been convicted of at Home.
BUT befides this Difficulty, there is ano-
ther that deftroys the Suppofition of paral-
lel Circumſtances, and therefore the Expec-
tation of Miracles as founded on them:
namely, that God may not think a Miffion-
ary's Seaſon of converting an Infidel Nation,
to be the proper one; that is, agreeable to
his Scheme of the Government of the
World, in whoſe Power are put the proper
Times and Seafons. And confequently, tho'
a Miffionary be ſuppoſed to be in a parity of
fome Circumſtances with the primitive Pro-
pagators of Chriſtianity, that is, to be very
fincere, and pious, and zealous in promo-
ting the Chriſtian Caufe; and tho' the Peo-
ple defigned to be converted by him, be ſup-
poſed to be much in the fame Condition, as
to Ignorance and Prejudices, with the anti-
ent Heathens, to whom Miracles were ex-
hibited
24
A SERMON before the Society
hibited in Confirmation of the Truth of
Chriſtianity; yet there cannot be a Parity
of all Circumſtances in the two propoſed
Cafes, till it can be proved that the Miffio-
nary's time is the true Time and proper Sea-
fon that is fixed by God, in his infinite Wif
dom, for the Converfion of Pagans or other
Unbelievers by Miracles, as they formerly
were. So that the proper time of Providence
is to be taken into the Circumftances of each
Caſe, to eſtabliſh their Parity; which is im-
poffible to be done without divine Revela-
tion. On one fide, we are ignorant of the
proper Seaſon appointed by God, for the
Converfion of Infidel Nations by Miracles;
and on the other, we are affured that the
time of Christ's Appearance in the World
was the proper Seafon, becauſe it was fixed
by God himſelf in the antient Prophecies,
as they have been clearly explained by the
Event of Things.
Acts i. 6.
Ver. 7.
INDEED when we recollect, that the A-
poſtles themſelves were reprimanded by our
Lord, for asking him after his Reſurrection,
whether he would at that time restore again
the Kingdom to Ifrael; by his anſwering
them, that it was not for them to know the
Times and the Seafons ;-but that they should
receive Power after that the Holy Ghost was
come
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
2,5
come upon them, that is, to qualify them for
being Witneffes of him and his Religion;
we furely, who confeffedly are deftitute of
the extraordinary Gifts of the bleſſed Spi-
rit, and particularly of that of Miracles,
ought to be very modeft, and humble, and
not ſo very fanguine as fome among us are
in their Expectations of the fpeedy opening
of a new Scene of Things, or of the Com-
mencement of the happy State of the Church
within the ſhort Period of three or four
Years, and that therefore the World will be
foon converted to the Chriſtian Religion in
its greateſt Purity; and if ſo, in a miracu-
lous Manner. For on this Occaſion it ought
to be confider'd, that tho' fome good and
learned Perfons have made very plauſible
Computations, to evince the near Approach
of that happy State; yet others of the fame
Character muſt be acknowledged to have
been deceived in their Schemes and Calcula-
tions on that nice Subject. I do not prefume
indeed to ſay in a Pofitive manner, that the
Favourers of thoſe Sentiments will be expe-
rimentally Confuted in a very ſhort ſpace of
Time, or here to point out any fingle Link
that feems less firm in their whole Chrono-
logical Chain; and much leſs do I affert that
it is impoffible for the Providence of God,
D
the
26
ASERMON before the Society
the Depths of whofe Counfels are unfa-
thomable by mortal Men, to produce fuch
great Alterations in the Chriftian Church
within a fmall compafs of Time. However,
it may be obferved, I hope, without any Of-
fence, that tho' good Men have great Rea-
fon to wifh for the Approach of that happy.
State, yet the prefent bad Circumftances of
the Chriftian World do not feem to agree
with the fudden Profpect of it. There muſt
furely be greater Alterations, and thoſe
gra-
dually carried on, before a due Preparation
is made for the Introduction of that glorious
State of the Univerſal Church of Chrift. The
Signs of the Times, in which Infidelity and
Immorality fo much prevail not only among
our Selves, but throughout all Europe, and
even beyond it, do by no means favour fo
quick and fudden a Change of the Principles
and Practices of degenerate Chriftians; nor
prefage the Converfion of Infidel Nations
throughout the World, till a great Refor-
mation is made of the open Licentiouſneſs,
the avowed Profanenefs, and the fcandalous
Morals of no fmall Numbers of thofe that
are falfly called the Difciples of Jefus Chrift.
I SHALL add farther to the Hint now
given, that if the Fall of Antichrift is ap-
pointed to procede fuch a general Converfion
of
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
27
+
of Infidel Nations, (as is ufually fuppofed
by Proteſtant Apocalyptical Commentators)
that general Converſion ſeems to be placed
by Providence at a confiderable Diſtance of
Time from us; fince the fuppofed previous
Fall of Antichrift ſeems to be fo, if the Pa-
pal Ufurpation and Apoftacy be the true
Character of Antichrift. For if we may
form a Judgment of this Matter from the
late Reinforcement of the famous Conftitu-
tion, Unigenitus, in which the moſt abfolute
Papal Authority, and the genuine Popery of
the darkest Ages before the Reformation, are
revived and maintained; in which the great-
eft Indignity is thrown on the Holy Scrip-
tures, as a Book that is not fit to be intruft-
ed in the Hands of the common People;
and in which the Romish Idolatry, which is
one great Obſtacle of the Converfion of the
Jews and Mahometans, is far from being Re-
formed; if this Conftitution, I fay, has fo
great a Strefs laid on it, as to be filed the
Bafis of all the Councils of the Church by
the late learned but fceptical Editor of those
Councils; if, in Fact, an implicit Subfcrip-
tion to it has of late been rigidly exacted, e-
ven in the moſt knowing Part of that Com-
munion; furely in thefe Circumftances, the
Fall of Antichrift does not feem fo very near
D 2
as
28
A SERMON before the Society
as fome have imagined; and confequently,
the general Converfion of Infidel Nations
to Chriſtianity, and the bleſſed State of the
Church, agreeably to the fuppofed Con-
nexion of them, feem to be placed at a great-
er diſtance from the prefent Times than
fome are willing to allow. But I haſten
from this Digreffion, if it be one, to the
THIRD Head I propofed, namely, That
tho' Miracles are not to be expected at pre-
fent, yet may they juftly be fo before the
End of the World, to facilitate and perfect
the Converfion of Infidel Nations to Chrif
tianity. And of this I fhall treat in a lefs
diffuſed manner, than I have done the laſt
Head of this Difcourfe; and more eſpecially,
fince fome of the foregoing Obſervations
have in fome meaſure Anticipated what re-
mains to be faid upon the prefent Subject.
INDEED this Head has fo natural and ea-
fy a Connexion with thofe that immediate-
ly precede it, that it is, in effect, a Conſe-
quence that neceffarily refults from them.
For if all Mankind is in due time to be
converted to the Chriftian Religion, if the
greater Part of the World is not yet con-
verted to it, if Miracles are the moſt
pow-
erful Methods of fuch a Converfion, and
were
for the Propagation of the Goſpel.
29
were accordingly appointed and uſed by God
in the earlieſt Ages for the Converfion of the
Roman Empire; and again, if thoſe antient
Miracles have not the fame Force and Effi-
cacy, as they juftly have with us, on thoſe
Infidel Nations that are ſuppoſed to be ig-
norant of other Hiftories that are well known
to us, and confirm in a Concurrent manner
the Truth of thofe Miracles; it follows,
fince theſe Reaſons will always continue the
fame in the fame Circumſtances, that new
Miracles are to be juſtly expected before the
End of the World, in order to facilitate and
perfect the Converfion of Infidel Nations to
Chriſtianity. Indeed it is not eafy otherwiſe
to imagine how all the Gentile Nations, the
Mahometan Empires and States, and the in-
veterate Adverfaries of Chriftianity the Jews
diſperſed throughout the World, who have
held out moſt obftinately againſt it for fo
many Ages, ſhould be entirely melted down
into a Recantation, and be unanimouſly con-
verted to a new Religion, and particularly
the Chriftian, againſt which they labour
under fuch infuperable Prejudices, as no-
thing short of the immediate interpofition
of the Arm of God can wholly furmount
and remove. Such an univerſal Conviction
of profeſs'd Adverſaries would it ſelf be the
greateſt
;
30
A SERMON before the Society
greateſt Miracle imaginable. And the Rea-
fon now precariouſly alledged, namely, a Pa-
rity of Circumftances with thoſe of the Pri-
mitive times, will then have its due Force
and Weight; that is, in the laſt Ages of the
World Miracles will be wrought, and that
with great Succefs, becauſe it will be in the
truly proper Seaſon, that which is appoint-
ed by God himſelf, that Miracles, the ſtrong-
eſt and moſt effectual Means of an univerſal
Converfion to Chriftianity, and therefore
the antient great Proof of it, will be revived
by an Almighty Agent, in whofe Hands are
the Hearts of all Men, as well as the Times
and Seaſons of their Converfion. The Judi-
cial Fall of Antichrift may (as has been in-
timated before) be a fignal Occaſion of con-
quering the Prejudices of the Jews, who
have been ſo much fcandalized at the Idola-
try retained in a confiderable part of the
Chriftian Church. Such a Conviction and
Reſtoration of the Jews, who are repre-
Zech. xii, fented in the Prophecy of Zechariah, as
10. having the Spirit of Grace and Supplication
poured upon them by God, and as looking up-
on him whom they have pierced, and Mourn
ing bitterly for him, when there fhall be a
Fountain opened to them for Sin and for Un-
cleanness; fuch a removal of the Vail from the
xiii.1.
Hearts
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
3 I
Hearts of that penitent People, and their
incorporation with the Chriftian Church,
may, I fay, be probably ſuppoſed to give a
great Alarm to the Gentile and Mahometan
Nations among whom they are now difperf
ed, and diſpoſe them to ſee the miraculous
Hand of GOD then vifibly diſplay'd on
that and other great Occafions, at fo cri-
tical a Juncture. The Pagans may be the
more inclined to renounce their antient
Idolatry, when they fee it puniſhed fo re-
markably in others, and to embrace the fpi-
ritual Worship of reformed and genuine
Chriſtianity, and more eſpecially as fupport-
ed anew by the Miracles of its Preachers,
and the no leſs miraculous Changes and Re-
volutions of a great part of the World.
Thefe wonderful Alterations may likewiſe
be ſuppoſed to affect the Mahometans; who
when they fee that Idolatry, which has fo
much ſhock'd them, entirely aboliſhed, and
the Jews grafted in anew to the Church of
GOD, in concurrence with the flowing in of
the Gentile Nations, the Time of whofe ful-
neſs is come; or in St. Paul's own Words,
as before explained, that all Ifrael that had
been ſo long rejected, do accept at laſt of
their rejected Saviour, and are faved them-
felves; the Mahometans, I fay, may in theſe
furprizing
32
A SERMON before the Society
furprizing Circumftances, and eſpecially
when attended with the inward Operations
of the Bleffed Spirit for their Conviction, be
reaſonably prefumed to be willing to em-
brace the Chriftian Religion. And indeed
tho' the Adherers to the Impoſture of Ma-
homet have been, by their mighty Succeffes,
a terrible Scourge of the Corruptions of
Christendom, yet they may be confider'd as
better prepared for the reception of the Gof-
pel than the Pagans, and likewiſe as prepa-
ring a great part of the World for it, by
their having fubdued Pagan Idolatry in many
Countries, as well as by the Reverence they
and their pretended Prophet have ſhewn to
Jefus Chrift, and their acknowledgment of
the Truth of moſt of the Facts recorded of
him in the Gofpels, at the fame time that
they have vainly endeavoured to antiquate
and ſuperſede his Religion, by their own im-
pious and imperfect Impoſture.
I SHALL not take upon me to affert po-
fitively on this Occafion, what muſt be
confefs'd to have been an antient Tradition
of many of the Chriſtian Fathers, namely,
that there will be a ſecond coming of Elias,
to prepare the way for the ſecond coming of
Mal. iv. 5, Jefus Chrift: that is, that Elias the Prophet
fhall himſelf appear in the World before the
6.
great
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
33.
!
N
great and terrible Day, to turn the Hearts
of the Children of the Jewish Fathers to the
true Senſe of their Fathers the Prophets, in
a miraculous Manner. However, it may
be faid, that as this Opinion is not inconfif-
tent with John the Baptift's having come al-
ready, as the Fore-runner of Chrift, in the
Spirit and Power of Elias, namely, by con-
ſtantly ſpeaking Truth, boldly rebuking
Vice, and patiently fuffering for the Truth's
fake; fo neither is it fo with the Words of
our Lord in their plaineſt Senſe, viz. that
Elias truly fhall first come and restore all
Things, tho' Elias is already come, that is, in
the Spiritual Senſe. And it may be added, 10, 14.
that if Elias fhall again appear in Perfon, (as with Mat.
compared
he did not perfonally appear before,) it is moft xvii. 11,
probable he will appear with the greateſt
Power, and as a Performer of Miracles, for
the Converfion of the Jews and others to
Chriſtianity. For it is certain, that as John Joh. x.41.
the Baptift wrought no Miracles, fo the
Performance of them was a diſtinguiſhing
Character of Elias himſelf.
NEITHER fhall I affirm, with the great
Mr. Mede, that Jefus Chrift will viſibly ap-
pear in Perſon to the Jews before the laft
Day, for the Conviction and Converſion of
thoſe that pierced him. But leaving theſe
E
two
Mat. xi.
12, 13.
34
A SERMON before the Society
two Points as Difputable matters, it is fuffi-
cient to evince, as I hope has been done, that
Miracles will be, wrought, in God's own
Time, to facilitate and perfect the Conver-
fion of all Nations to the Chriftian Religion.
I ACCORDINGLY go on to the Confide-
ration of the
FOURTH and laft Head of this Diſcourſe,
namely, What are the moſt proper Methods
to be now uſed in order to convert the unbe-
lieving Part of the World to Chriſtianity,
and more eſpecially the Pagans in America,
as thofe with whom this Society for propa-
gating the Gospel in Foreign Parts is more
immediately concerned.
THE Charter indeed of this Society has a
juſt regard to the ſpiritual Welfare and good
Inftruction of the Colonies and Factories of
this Kingdom in all Foreign Parts; and
therefore may extend the Views of Propa-
gating the Goſpel to the remoteſt Eaſtern
Countries as well as the Western, fince our
Factories are fpread throughout both of
them. But fince the Engliſh. Factories in the
Eaft, maintain at their own Expence, thoſe
that officiate in facred Things among them,
I think it fuperfluous to confider at this
time our Miffions: in the Eastern Parts of
the
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
3:5
the World; and more eſpecially, fince our
Millionaries, properly fo called, are very few
in thofe Countries; who likewife are lau-
dably fupported by another Society, namely,
that for Promoting Chriftian Knowledge. But
the Cafe is very different in our Colonies in
the Weft-Indies, as likewife with relation to
the Negroes employed by them, and the In-
dian Heathens round about them.
WITH regard to the Miffionaries in our
American Colonies, as there has formerly been
great neceffity for their being fupplied with
fpiritual Guides and Inftructors in Chriftia-
nity, fince many of our People there were very
Ignorant and Immoral, as is clearly expreft
in the Charter of this Society; fo is there the
fame Neceffity for Paftors' among them, to
keep up a juft fenfe of Religion in the pre-
fent and future. Generations; and more ef
pecially, fince fomé Colonies receive a great
Acceffion of Inhabitants every Year from
the Confluence of thofe that are here con-
demned to Tranſportation, who no doubt
want Reformation of Manners, and a better
Senfe of Religion. Indeed in a Courfe of
about Thirty Years from the Eftablishment
of this Society by a Charter, a great Progrefs
has been made in building Churches, and
fettling Miniſters of Parithes, (tho often of
E 2
too
i
36
A SERMON before the Society
too great Extent) for the immediate uſe of
our Countrymen placed in different Colo-
nies; fo that now, God be thanked, there
is a publick face of Religion, and a regular
Worſhip of God eſtabliſhed among moſt of
them, agreeably to the Rules and Orders of
the Church of England. However, it muſt
be confeffed that there is ftill great Occa-
fion not only for the Inftruction of them in
Religion, in common with all other Chrif
tians; but the Exigencies of our Colonies
require in a particular Manner that they be
farther reformed with refpect to rapacious
Practices, Frauds, Luxury, and other grofs
Immoralities that are the ufual Attendants
of it; and conſequently, Miffionaries are as
neceffarily to be fent abroad for the Refor-
mation of our own Countrymen in America,
as for the Converfion of Negroes and Indi-
And more eſpecially fo, fince not only
the Name of Chrift is frequently Blafphemed
among the Infidels round about them, on
Occafion of the profligate Lives of too ma-
ans.
ny
in our Colonies, but they themſelves are
in feveral Places too indigent to bear the
Expences that are neceffary for the Mainte-
nance of the Minifters of Christ among
them; and who must therefore be fup-
ported by the liberal Contributions of well-
diſpoſed
է
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
37
difpofed Chriſtians, that refide in theſe weal-
thier Parts of the World.
Or with
As for the Negroes that are employed in
the Drudgery of our Plantations, and in pro-
curing Riches to their Mafters, and indeed
to our whole Country in the natural Circu-
lation of Trade, with what Modefty can we
pretend to neglect the Inftruction of them
in Chriſtianity, who are our Domeſticks
and menial Servants? How grofly fupine
do we deſerve to be thought, if we uſe not
all our Opportunities of converting them
to the Chriſtian Religion; and making them
part of the Houſhold of Faith, who are lite-
rally part of our own Houfhold?
what Affurance can we fhew fome Zeal for
Converfion of the remoter Indians, whilft
we take fo little care to inftruct and admit
thoſe into the Chriftian Church that we are
daily converfant with? Or will not the
Trouble of fome Chriftian Inftruction be
amply compenfated, even with the fecular
Confideration of their becoming more faith-
ful Servants to us; as it is very probable
they will, when they are treated not only
with more Humanity, but as our Fellow-
Chriſtians, and are no longer to be confider'd
as mere Beaſts of Burthen? But it is to be
hoped that the Catechists, that are employ-
ed
:
38
A SERMON before the Society
ed by this Society in the Inſtruction and Con-
verfion of the poor Negroe-Slaves to Chrif-
tianity, will by their good Succefs give the
beft Refolution of thefe Queſtions; and that
their Mafters will be at laft convinced, by
the Determination of the ableft Lawyers as
well as Divines, that as no Alteration is
made in Property of any kind by the Goſpel,
ſo none at all is made in the Property of
their Slaves by their being baptized into the -
Chriſtian Faith; and will fhew they are affur-
ed that their Slaves have Human Souls, (a pre-
tence to the contrary being too ridiculous to
be confuted) by their contributing in a more
Chriſtian Manner to the Salvation of them.
WITH regard to the more extended Views
of this Society, namely, the Converfion of
the American Pagans, and more eſpecially
thoſe that are in the Neighbourhood of any
of our Colonies; it is to be feared that
Christian Inftructions will be in great mea-
fure loft upon them, and that they will be
fcarce capable of Converfion, till they are
firft Civilized, and previously taught the Arts
of Humanity. As they are generally the
more rude and favage fort of Indians that
border upon our Colonies, the task of Con-
verting them is vaftly more difficult, than
that of the Indians of a more mild and tracta-
-
ble
+
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
39
ble Difpofition; fuch, I mean, as formerly in-
habited the Cities of Mexico and Peru. It is
notorious that thofe we are generally con-
cerned with, are Perfons that are not yet
arrived at the Knowledge of the common
Conveniencies of Life, of cloathing them-
felves with decency, of building Houſes, and
much leſs Cities, of Trading, or even of
Tilling Land for the Ufe of themſelves and
Families; but that they are half-naked, live
in miferable Hutts, and depend chiefly on
Hunting, or Rapine and War; as likewife
that they are in a ſtate of abfolute Igno-
rance of all parts of Learning. A ſtate of
Nature this, that not without great af-
fectation of a Paradox, has been ſtyled a
ſtate of Innocence, and accordingly has been
infinitely preferr'd to a Regular ſtate of Life,
and eſpecially under the Chriftian Difpenfa-
tion, by a fett of Men, that are refolved at
all Adventures to depreciate the Advantages
of the Christian Revelation. The first Step
therefore to be taken in order to the Con-
verfion of fuch a wild fort of People, is to
introduce among them fome Knowledge of
the Conveniencies of a Regular Life. They
are to be taught the common introductory.
parts of Learning; before any great Progrefs
can reaſonably be expected in the Conver
fion
40
ASERMON before the Society
fion of fuch ignorant People to Chriſtianity.
Not only more Schools are therefore to be
opened, but more Colleges are to be erected,
and Profefforſhips, more efpecially of Hiſto-
ry, Geography, and Chronology, are to be en-
dowed, if we would effectually propagate
good Manners and true Religion among
them. And indeed, the Miflionaries that are
moſt likely to be fucceſsful in propagating
the Chriſtian Religion among the Indians,
are fuch as have cultivated their Languages,
and therefore have free Admiffion among
them; or rather, (on account of the tediouf-
nefs of learning their barbarous Languages)
are fuch of their own Countrymen, and of
the fame Languages with themfelves, as
might be prevailed with to be Civilized in
Schools and Colleges, and who, after having
learned not only Human Arts, but Chriftiani-
ty there, ſhould return into their reſpective
Countries, and inftruct their Brethren in them
with greater Advantages than we can pre-
tend to.
To this Scheme of Improvement,
and confequently of Converfion, the Favour
of their ſeveral Princes and petty Gover-
nors, if capable of being acquired, might
much conduce, by the Influence it might de-
rive upon their Subjects.
their Subjects. But if their,
Higher Powers themſelves are incapable of
Cultivation,
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
41
Cultivation, and prefer a brutal fort of Life,
in common with their People, to all the
Arts of Humanity that we can teach them;
the Converfion of the Indians is fcarce to
be expected by the uſe of any ordinary
Means of Inftruction. The Cafe is here
very different from what it is in China and
other great Eastern Empires, where the Peo-
ple are civilized, ingenious, and under the
Influence of an abfolute Prince, that favours
the Chriſtian Religion, and permits his Sub-
jects to embrace it. However, even in ſome
of thoſe Eastern Empires, tho' there have
been happy Revolutions of Religion that
have been obtained by the Favour of fome
great Princes, which was gained by their Ad-
miration of a fuperiour Skill in Mathema-
ticks, and their own political Uſe of ſome
Mechanical Parts of them, as taught by fome
of the firſt and chief Miffionaries there; (on
whoſe temporizing Omiffions of fome im-
portant Parts of the Goſpel in the East-In-
dies, and mean Compliances with the Rites
of the Idolatry eſtabliſhed in China, I ſhall
not here reflect) yet fuch has been the uncer-
tainty of the Favour of Princes, or the Vi-
ciffitude of Human Affairs, or the unfortu-
nate Detection of the Political Intrigues of
thoſe that acquired that Favour, that Anti-
revolutions
F
42
ASERMON before the Society
revolutions have fometimes happened, and
particularly in Japan, where the Govern-
ment has been fubverted in confequence of
that Indulgence, and Multitudes of new
Converts to Chriſtianity have been deſtroyed,
and indeed the Church there has been en-
tirely reduced to ruin. But to return nearer
home.
ANOTHER Method of propagating our
holy Faith among the Indians of America,
is that of the Sanctity of the lives of our
Miffionaries there; and indeed of a thorough
Reformation of the Morals of the People in
our Colonies, who in fome Meaſure ought
to be confider'd as Miffionaries, by a truly
Chriſtian Life, to the Pagans round about
them. For tho' the Chriftian Religion moſt
justly recommends it felf to all inquifitive
and rational Perfons by the Excellency of
the Divine Scheme, that is exhibited in the
Redemption of the World by the ineſtima-
ble Performances and Merits of our great
Mediator, and by the perfecting of Human
Nature by the noble Syftem of Morality he
has taught his Followers; yet it muſt be
confeſs'd that, an ignorant Indian muft, in
the reſult of Things, chiefly depend on the
Sincerity and Knowledge of the Miffionary
that
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
43
that defires to convert him, for the Truth
and Certainty of the diſtinguiſhing Facts that
relate to Jefus Chrift. And confequently,
the Veracity of the Miffionary ought to be
firmly eſtabliſhed by the Holiness of his Life,
and Goodneſs of his Morals; fince they are
the most powerful Arguments he can uſe,
and which give the beft Character both of
him and his Religion to a poor Indian, in or-
der to perfuade him to embrace that Faith,
which has fo great an Influence on the Life
of him that recommends it by his own Exam-
ple. Such a Miffionary therefore is the moft
credible Witneſs of the Truth of that Religi-
on, which he is fuppofed to have examined,
and recommends on his own Authority.
ONCE more; The prefent Defect of Mi-
racles ought to be fupplied by fuch a Dili-
gence in the Miffionary Function, as may
bear fome Proportion to it; and by fuch a
Zeal for the Glory of God, and the Salva-
tion of Souls, as may in fome Meafure ba-
lance that Diſadvantage.
AND lastly, the moſt ardent Prayers are
to be offer'd up to the Throne of Grace for
the Divine Affiftance, in our contributing
to the enlargement of the Kingdom of
Chrift; and a Bleffing from Heaven is to be
F 2
earneftly
44
A SERMON before the Society
earneſtly implored on the fincere Endea-
vours of his Servants to propagate the Gof-
pel of Chriſt, who commanded them to do
fo, and at the fame time promiſed to be with
them, that is, in an effectual Manner, to the
end of the World; and who indeed has made
it a part of our daily Prayer that God's
Kingdom may come, or may be accomplished
and become univerfal thro'out the World.
AND as thefe Methods are of perpetual
Ufe, fo are we at this critical Juncture ob-
liged fo to reflect on the prevalence of Infi-
delity among us, in theſe parts of the World;
that if God, for the Puniſhment of our moſt
ſhameful Abuſe of the Gofpel, ſhould give
us up to a general Infidelity, or abandon us
to a Return of Popery, the pure Chriftian
Religion may have fome Retreat prepared
for it in America; and, agreeably to the
prophetical Prefages of fome very pious Per-
fons of the laft Century, now with Go D,
may be tranſplanted thither; that thus
God's Ways may be known upon Earth, and
his Saving Health among all Nations, even
from the rifing to the going down of the
Sun. And indeed the Wicked Zeal which is
exerted by the Rival Society among us for
propagating Infidelity, not only here, but by
poiſoning
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
45
1
poiſoning our Colonies in America with
great Numbers of impious Books, that are
faid to have been tranfmitted thither, ought
to awaken and rouze our Charitable Zeal
to obviate their Attempts. For if ſo bad a
fo
Cauſe as they are engaged in, that by which
they labour to perfuade themſelves and o-
thers that they are no better Beings than the
Beafts that perish, is carried on with fo much
Art and Induſtry; with what Diligence and
Vigour ought we to be animated in the
pur-
fuit of the true Interefts of a Cauſe, that
gives us a glorious Proſpect of an happy Im-
mortality, and juſt hopes of being accounted
worthy of a Life equal to that of Angels, to
be enjoyed by our felves, and Multitudes of
others, upon the Principles of Chriſtianity?
This furely is a ftate of Life that is worthy
of our warmeft Purſuits, and our moſt labo-
rious Studies; but to be extinct altogether
both in Soul and Body, when we leave this vain
World, 'does not deferve a fingle Thought.
As therefore God has favoured this Society
with great Succefs, and raiſed up numerous
Benefactors to it from time to time, and
more eſpecially a late bountiful Lady, who
has left fo noble a Legacy to it, that her
Memory well deſerves to be tranſmitted with
Honour
46
A SERMON before the Society, &c.
Honour to all Generations; fo fince the An-
nual Income of this Society falls very ſhort
of the Expences of it, let us all in our ſeveral
Stations promote fo great and good a De-
fign, by procuring more ample Contribu-
tions towards this Labour of Love both to
GOD and Man; and no doubt we ſhall in
due time be convinced by an happy Experi-
ence, that our pious Endeavours will not
be in vain in the Lord. To whom be all
Honour and Glory, &c.
FINI S
}
I
ERRAT A.
PAge 8. in the Margin, for Heb. v. 9. r. Pfal. ii. 9. p. 20.
1. 3. r. premiſed, p. 34. 1. 25. dele two Comma's, p. 37. 1.
16. r. the Converfion.
Publiſhed by the ſame Right Reverend Author.
REformation neceffary to prevent our Ruin: A Ser-
mon Preached to the Societies for Reformation
of Manners, at St. Mary-le-Bow, on January 10th.
1727. Sold by Fofeph Downing, in Bartholomew-
Clofe, near Weft-Smithfield.
A Vindication of the Miracles of our Bleffed Savi-
our; in which Mr. Woolfton's Six Difcourfes on them
are particularly Examined, his pretended Authorities
of the Fathers against the Truth of their Literal' Senfe
are fet in a juft. Light, and his Objections in point
of Reafon are Anfwer'd. In Two Volumes in Octavo.
Sold by James and John Knapton, at the Crown in
Ludgate-Street, 1729, and 1731.
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
3
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Pariſh-Church of St.Mary-le-Bow,
ON FRIDAY, February 15. 1733.
BY IS A AC MAD DO X, D. D.
Dean of Wells, and Clerk of the Cloſet to the QUEEN.
RAYTON IM
LONDON:
Printed by J. DOWNING, in Bartholomew-Clofe, near
Weft-Smithfield, 1734.
February 15. 1733..
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the
Society for the Propagation of the
Goſpel in Foreign Parts.
A Greed, That the Thanks of the
SOCIETY be given to the
Reverend the Dean of Wells, for his
Sermon Preached this Day before the
SOCIETY, and that He be defired
to Print the fame.
David Humphreys, Secretary.
-------100 ML OF AS A SET ---ES
TITUS II. 11, 12, 13.
The Grace of God, that bringeth Sal-
vation, hath appeared to all Men,
teaching us, that denying Ungodliness
and worldly Lufts, we should live
Soberly, righteously, and godly in
this prefent World, looking for that
Bleſſed Hope, and the glorious Ap-
pearing of the great God, and our
Saviour Jefus Chrift.
S
T. PAUL, in the Verfes pre-
ceeding the Text, gives fome
Rules to Titus for his own Be-
haviour in Crete, where he was
left to fet in Order the Things that were
wanting, and to ordain Elders in every City.
A 2
The
3
4
A SERMON before the Society
?
The Apoſtle likewife directs him to ex-
hort the Chriftian Converts, to diſcharge
the reſpective Duties of their different
Stations and Callings, feveral of which he
diftinctly mentions. After that, he enfor-
ces theſe particular Exhortations by a ge-
neral Argument, in the Words of the Text,
taken from the Defign. of Chriſtianity, the:
Authority by which that Religion is fup-
ported, and the Rewards or Puniſhments
that will follow Obedience or Difobedi-
ence to it. For the Grace of God, that
bringeth Salvation, hath appeared to all
Men, teaching us, that denying Ungodliness
and worldly Lufts, we should live foberly,
righteously, and godly in this prefent World,
looking for that Bleſſed Hope, and the glo-
rious Appearing of the great God, and our
Saviour Jefus Chrift.
THESE Words, very fuitably to this
folemn Occafion, will lead us in the firſt.
Place,
I. To confider the Nature and Tendency
of this Religion, intended to be ſpread in
the World, the Evidence upon which it
is founded, and the Methods employed for
the Propagation of it.
THIS
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
5
}
THIS lays before Mankind, what the
Venerable Society here prefent always de-
fire to have known, their whole Bufinefs
and Defign; and prepares the Way for
the Second Part of this Difcourſe, the re-
commending this Good Work to farther.
Encouragement and Affiftance.
First, As to the Defign and Tendency of
that Religion, which is to be ſpread in
the dark and diftant. Places of the Earth,
the Text itſelf fets it in a very juſt and
amiable Light: 'Tis the Grace of God.
which bringeth Salvation that hath appeared.
to ALL Men; whereby the common Fa-
ther of Mankind, without Reſpect of Per-
fons, confults the Happineſs of all the Sons
of Men.
THE Afſurance of Forgiveness to thoſe
who fincerely Repent, and the Care that
is taken to fecure their future Obedience by
the beſt Inftructions and the ſtrongeſt Mo-
tives, are fubftantial Proofs of the Grace.
and Goodneſs of God in this Difpenfa-
tion.
GREAT Care is taken in this Divine
Syſtem to remove thofe anxious Fears,
which are the Confequence of Guilt, by
the full Aurance of a Pardon. Full Af
furance,,
6
A SERMON before the Society
furance, I call it, to give this gracious
Promiſe a juſt Preference to thoſe conjec-
tural Hopes, thoſe doubtful Wiſhes; which
is all that offending Creatures could enter-
tain, without an exprefs Diſcovery of the
Divine Intentions.
THE expiatory Rites and Ceremonies,
the Sacrifices and Oblations, that fo uni-
verfally prevailed in the World, plainly
fhew the Senſe of Mankind in this par-
ticular: Fearful of deferved Puniſhment,
uncertain of a Pardon, willing to do fome-
thing to atone for their Crimes, to pacify
an offended Deity, and, if poffible, procure
his Mercy and Favour; they were ready
to offer Thouſands of Rams, and Ten Thou-
fands of Rivers of Oil; to give even the
Fruit of their Body for the Sin of their
Soul. Nor was this remarkable Sollicitude
without Foundation; for tho' the Good-
neſs of God is infinite, and his Mercy from
everlaſting to everlaſting, yet no particu-
lar Perfon confcious of Guilt, can be af-
fured, without an exprefs and pofitive De-
claration from his Judge, that his Crimes
will not meet with the Puniſhment they
deferve; or that, notwithſtanding his Of
fences, he fhall be fully reinftated in the
Divine Favour.
EVERY
for the Propagation of the Gofpel. 7
EVERY Offender must be convinced,
that Examples of strict Justice may be of
general Use in the Government of the
World. An exact Severity upon fome,
may be highly inftructive and beneficial
to many others. What we learn from
Scripture to be really the Caſe of fallen
Spirits of an higher Order, every Sinner
may justly dread, as poſſible to be his own,
by the like rigorous Execution of the
Law upon him. Befides, the deeper the
Senfe of Guilt is, and the stronger the
Dread of Punishment in any Mind; the
Hopes of Pardon and Forgiveness naturally
become more weak and languid. In Cafes
therefore, where it is moft neceffary to
have Comfort, where a Gleam of Light
would be moſt ſeaſonable and refreſhing,
there, without fure Relief from God him-
felf, muſt be the greateſt Perplexity;
Clouds and Darkneſs muft give the moſt
fubftantial Pain. But when Almighty God,,
who beſt knows the Maxims of his own
Government, proclaims a Pardon to the
Penitent, this affords fuch folid Satisfac-
tion, as cannot poffibly arife from any o-
ther Confideration.
BUT, befides removing the anxious Fears-
of Puniſhment for what is paft, the moft
wife
8
A SERMON before the Society.
wife and proper Methods are employed, in
the Chriftian Diſpenſation, to prevent of
fending in Time to come.
THE Relation of Mankind to the Crea-
tor and Governor of all Things, their
Situation with refpect to other Beings,
and their own particular Make and Con-
ftitution, are a juft Foundation of the re-
ſpective Duties to thofe different Objects:
A devout Homage to Him that made us,
Juſtice and Benevolence to our Fellow-
Creatures, with a conftant Endeavour to
preſerve the Superiority of our rational
Powers, and exerciſe a due Government
over our Paffions and Defires. Theſe are
moral Obligations, which certainly ariſe
from the State and Conftitution of Things
appointed by the great Creator; nor are
they deftitute of natural Sanctions and
Enforcements. But the Misfortune is, that
thefe Duties, how reaſonable foever in
themſelves, and beneficial in their Confe-
quences, have not been clearly understood,
nor duly practifed in the World. The
World by all its Wisdom knew not God.
It has therefore feemed good to the in-
dulgent Father of our Spirits, not to ſu-
perfede any prior Obligations, but by a
Method more effectual and more obvious,
to
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
to explain, improve, and enforce them:
That where Human Faculties were be-
wilder'd, and Doubts and Difficulties arofe
to perplex the Thoughtful and Inquifitive;
and where vaft Numbers, even the Bulk
of the Sons of Men, could fcarce be in-
duced to enquire or think at all; there,
the express Inftructions of Infinite Wiſdom,
and the Authority of an Almighty Judge,
might inform the Understanding, and direct
the Practice of Mankind; to ſecure, by theſe
unuſual means, a greater and more conſtant
regard to every inftance of Piety and Virtue.
'Tis needleſs to diſpute, what Notions
of the Deity, what Modes of Worſhip, or
Rules for focial Life, might poſſibly be fram-
ed by the utmoſt ſtretch of Human Pow-
ers, by Men of deep Penetration and great
Learning. In fact, 'tis certain, that without
the Affiftance of Divine Revelation, and po-
fitive Inftruction founded upon it, Mankind
have funk into wretched Ignorance, or be-
come the Vaffals of its naturál Offspring,
wild Superftition. Having conceived very
impure Notions of the invifible Powers, 'tis
no wonder they ſhould fall into grofs Im-
moralities themſelves; The Face of a Pub-
lick Worſhip was indeed kept up among
them; they profeſſed they knew God, but in
Works
B
10
A SERMON before the Society
Works they denied him, being abominable and
difobedient, and unto every good Work repro-
bate.
1
THIS Grace of God bringing Salvation,
that hath appeared to all Men, teaches them.
to deny all this Ungodliness and worldly Lufts;
to renounce and forfake all Impiety, Idola-
try, and Superftition; and to abandon all
thoſe impure Defires and wicked Practices,
which were the natural Effects of a Wor-
hip fo corrupt. With this view, an ex-
prefs Revelation from Heaven conveys to:
the World true Notions of the Divine Na-
ture; enjoins a proper Worship in Spirit and,
in Truth, ftrictly enforcing all the Duties,
of Human Life: Duties therein repreſent-
ed with the greateſt Plainneſs, recommend--
ed and adorned by many great and noble:
Inftances of Obedience; and above all (what:
never happened in any Sect of Philoſophy);
illuftrated and enforced by the perfect Ex-
ample of its Divine Author Jefus Chrift the
Righteous.
THIS Revelation was intended to teach:
Men in the most obvious and easy Way of
Inftruction, and with the greateſt Weight.
and Authority (what they had not learn'd
before) to deny Ungodliness and worldly Lufts,
and to live foberly, righteously, and godly
in
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
II
in the World. It was intended to incul-
cate and encourage every perfonal and
publick Virtue; to inftru&t Men to correct
and fubdue all thofe irregular Paffions, which
ruffle and difturb the Breafts wherein they
dwell, give fo much Trouble to the reſt of
the World, and are fo highly offenfive to
Almighty God; inftead of Avarice and
Ambition, Hatred and Revenge, Envy, Ma-
lice, Intemperance, and all other inordinate
Defires and Inclinations, to adorn the Mind
with Sobriety and Contentment, Meekneſs
and Benevolence, and with a Fortitude tru-
ly noble, that forgives Injuries, and bears
Diſtreſs. But befides living foberly, it in-
ftructs Men to act with Juſtice and Can-
dour towards each other; to confider the
whole Race of Man, as the Offspring and
the Image of one Heavenly Father, entitled
to the fame Meaſure of Favour and Com-
paffion, which every Man (fond enough
as he is of himſelf) defires to experience
in his own Cafe. Do unto others, as you
would have them do unto you. With refpect
to Almighty God, whofe fpiritual Nature
and divine Perfections are therein explained;
this Revelation commands Men to love, to
reverence and adore him, to imitate his
Perfections, to be merciful as our heavenly
B 2
Father
I 2
A SERMON before the Society
}
Father is merciful, and holy as he is holy.
It teaches us to own our conſtant Depen-
dance, and his ſupreme Authority; to ad-
mire the Works of his Providence, and
praiſe him for the wonderful Proofs of his
Love; in particular, thankfully to acknow-
ledge and carefully improve his Mercies in
Chriſt Jefus, who with great Condefcenfion
became the Author of our Salvation, God
manifeft in the Flesh, to destroy the Works of
the Devil.
IN fhort, the Chriftian Inftitution is
framed to fettle the Opinions of the World,
upon thoſe two moſt important Articles, Re-
ligion and Morality; 'tis defigned to regulate
the Practice, to alleviate the Fears, to raiſe
the Hopes, and fecure the Happineſs of
Mankind; 'tis the Grace of God that bring-
eth Salvation.
THESE being Matters of the greatef
Importance, the Revelation in which they
are contained, is fupported by the Authori-
ty
of God himſelf, acting in a Character to
which he has the ſtrongeſt Title, that of
Supreme Legiſlator. Hence the Inftructions
of the Gospel, are delivered in the conciſe
and pofitive Form of a Law: God COM-
MANDETH all Men every where to re-
pent. This is the WILL of God, even your,
Sanctification.
THAT
4
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
13
THAT a due Obedience might be fecured
to theſe divine Commands, they are enforced
by the most powerful and affecting Motives.
To the confcious Satisfaction of acting
well, and the many Advantages of Religion
and Virtue in the prefent State, there are
added the moft awful Sanctions in that
which is to come. Life and Immortality
being brought to Light by the Gospel.
"Tis a very important Confideration,
that Duties, the moft reaſonable and benefi-
cial in themſelves, are enjoined by the Au-
thority and exprefs.Command of God him-
ſelf, the greateſt and the beſt of Beings; to
whom we are indebted for every Mercy we
now enjoy, upon whom alone our future
Hopes depend; add to this, the certain Ex-
pectation of a Day of Retribution; looking
for that Bleſſed Hope, and the glorious Ap-
pearing of the great God, and our Saviour
Jefus Chrift. Thofe exprefs Declarations
that are made in Holy Writ, in what Man-
ner a Being of infinite Knowledge and infi-
nite Power will hereafter Reward or Puniſh;
give the greateſt Weight to the important
Precepts of the Goſpel; as they deeply af-
fect every Individual of the Human Race:
For God will render to E-VERY Man ac-
cording to his Deeds.; to them who by patient
Con
14 2014
A SERMON before the Society
1
Continuance in Well-doing, feek for Glory,
Honour, and Immortality; eternal Life: But
unto them that are contentious, and do not
obey the Truth, but obey Unrighteoufnefs, In-
dignation and Wrath, Tribulation and An-
guish, upon every Soul of Man that doth Evil
As to the Proofs of this Religion, which
is the next Particular to be confidered, they
are clear and ftrong.
To testify the Divine Original of this Re-
velation, in which Matters of fo great Con-
fequence are contained, and likewife to fup-
port and animate the first Publishers of it,
under the heavy Perfecutions that fell to
their Lot; to give the greater and more af-
fecting Certainty to the Threatnings of Pu-
niſhment, and the Promife of Pardon and
Happineſs therein made; and alfo to awaken
and rouſe more effectually the Attention of
Mankind, too negligent of their Duty: ma-
ny wonderful Events appeared in Confirma-
tion of the Chriftian Doctrine. Numerous
Predictions, very minute and circumſtantial,
made Ages before of unuſual Facts, beyond
all Human Forefight or Conjecture, were
punctually fulfilled. Various aftoniſhing
Changes, and furprifing Interruptions were
made in the Courſe of Nature: GOD him-
felf bearing Witness to this Heavenly Doc-
trine
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
trine, by Signs and Wonders, by diverse Mi-
racles, and Gifts of the Holy Ghoft. A Doc-
trine, that in the Hands of a few poor, ho-
neſt, unlearned Men, overcame the moſt
popular Prejudices, and fubdued the favou-
rite Paffions of Mankind: A Doctrine, fo
far from being a Trick of State, or the In-
vention of Politicians, or of Priests, that it
Spread and flourished under the oppreffive
Power of the Secular Arm, and encountred;
all the Oppofition, that Malice or that Intereft-
Could ſuggeſt to the Jewish and the Heathen
Priesthood.
A DOCTRINE, whofe genuine Goodnefs,
whole engaging Excellence, and intrinfic
Worth, fupported by Divine Credentials,
gave it a ſpeedy and extenfive Propagation.
in the World.
}
THE quick and fuccefsful Progress this-
Religion made, could only be owing to the-
Force of Truth, and the Certainty of thoſe
mighty Works wrought in Confirmation of:
ir. In Matters of Reafoning and Specula-
tion, Miſtakes are frequently and eafily com-
mitted: But the Foundation of the Gospel is-
laid upon furer Ground, plain and obvious.
Facts; thofe publick Miracles wrought by
our Blefféd Saviour and his Apoſtles. To
theſe, both He and They appeal for the Con-
viction
16
A SERMON before the Society
•
viction of their Audience; To theſe, after-
wards in their Epiftles, they refer the Chrif
tian Converts, as to Facts which they them-
felves knew to be unquestionably true. Such
open and publick Appeals, fo near the Time
the Facts happened, are upon no Principles
to be accounted for, if the Miracles thus
produced in Evidence had never been per-
formed. There likewife arifes a very strong.
Confirmation of theſe miraculous Works, from
the dying Testimony of thofe, who (under
God) were the Authors, or the immediate
Spectators of them. Enthufiafm, Error, and
Superftition have, no doubt, had zealous
Votaries; Men have died for very abfurd
Notions, different Perfons for contradictory
Opinions and Speculations. But for great
Numbers of Men to lay down their Lives,
not in ſupport of a meer Opinion, but in
Confirmation of plain Matters of Fact; Facts
which must fall under the Obfervation of
their own Senfes, which they afferted to be
really true, when they certainly knew them
to be abfolutely falfe; for Numbers of Men
to part with their Lives in fuch a Cauſe,
without any Proſpect or Chance of worldly
Advantage, is a Behaviour contrary to all
the Principles of Human Nature, and of
which no Inſtance can be given.
>
THESE
for the Propagation of the Goſpel.
17
THESE are Proofs of Chriſtianity not to
be confuted; and if duly confidered, not
poffible to be withſtood.
'Tis this Religion, fo worthy of the great
Governor of the Univerfe, built upon the
moft folid Foundations, extremely condu-
cive, beyond every other Scheme, to the Peace
and Happineſs of Society, in general, and
to the preſent Comfort and future Salvation
of every individual Member of it: 'Tis a
Religion thus excellent in itſelf, thus clearly
impreft with the Signatures of a Divine Au-
thority, that THIS SOCIETY, with the
Bleffing of Almighty God, the Author of it,
defires to ſpread and continue in the Weſtern
World; To fpread and ſupport it by all the
rational and proper Methods of foft and
gentle Perfwafion, and thofe only, enforced
by that moſt prevailing Argument, a virtu-
ous and good Example. In obedience to the
Precept, and Conformity to the Practice of
the Bleſſed Founder of this Religion, they
endeavour the Propagation of it, in the Spi-
rit of Meekness, by the fingle Force of Truth:
Greatly defirous that no Violence ſhould be
uſed in the Caufe of Religion; nothing to
hurt or to deſtroy; but that the Means em-
ployed to make Converts, fhould correfpond
with the Deſign of that Revelation they are
taught
C
18
A SERMON before the Society
}
taught to embrace'; Glory to God in the high-
eft, on Earth Peace, good Will towards Men.
Thus have we briefly feen, the Nature
and Tendency of the Chriſtian Inſtitution,
the Evidence by which it is fupported, and
the Means employed for the Propagation of
it. We may now proceed to the Second
Thing propofed, The Recommending this
good Work to farther Encouragement and Af-
fiftance.
It would be extremely wrong upon this
Occafion, not to bring to Remembrance
ſome of thoſe weighty Confiderations, which
have with great Judgment and Propriety
been offered by many eminent Prelates, and
other learned Divines, from this Place. The
Buſineſs is ftill the fame, and the fame Ne-
ceffity continues, for defiring Affiftance in
the Profecution of it. The Work itſelf,
how often foever reprefented, and the Me-
thods by which it is carried on, will, 'tis to
be hoped, recommend fo good a Defign to
the Favour and Encouragement of every fe-
rious and compaffionate Mind.
•
THE Defign is large and extenfive, great-.
ly beneficial and important. Tisno less than
to continue and fpread the Chriftian Reli-
gion, that uſeful, that Divine Doctrine, in
3
the
for the Propagation of the Goſpel.
19
the vaſt Regions of America, fubject to the
Britiſh Dominion; and to carry it forward
into the adjoining Countries of the Indian
Nations. Our own Settlements and Plan-
tations afford much Work: Befides the Na-
tive English with which they are Peopled,
they abound with prodigious Numbers of
poor unhappy Negro Slaves. A Continent
that reaches above Fifteen hundred Miles
from North to South, befides many Iſlands,
cannot be ſupplied with Churches and Tea-
chers fufficient to keep up a Senſe of Reli-
gion, and preferve the publick Worſhip of
God, without a very great and conftant Ex-
pence. In fome Places indeed publick Pro-
vifion is made; but far the greateſt Part is
deftitute of Help among themſelves, and de-
pends upon the kind Affiftance of this So-
ciety.
THE Support of Religion in thoſe vaſt
Territories, flender as the Allowance to the
Preachers is, unavoidably requires a large
and continual Supply.
OUR own People, 'tis to be feared, gene-
rally carry Abroad with them too little Re-
gard for Religion, and no great Acquaintance
with the Principles, or the Proofs of it.
THE flender Portion of Knowledge which
they export, is foon loft in Places, where
there
C 2
AKE AE
20
A SERMON before the Society
there is no Inftruction to encreaſe, or even
preferve it. Their Children and Servants,
having no better Teachers than thefe igno-
rant Superiors, muſt ſtill be more ignorant;
and in a Generation or two, the little Know-
ledge that was firſt carried over, is worn a-
way, and in a manner quite extinct. › For
want of Schools, and religious Inftruction,
a Race of Men foon appears ftupidly igno-
rant, and of courſe, grofsly negligent of true
Religion and Virtue; Till by the Miſchiefs
of a total Diſregard of Divine Worſhip, they
are fully convinced of its Uſefulneſs and Va-
lue, as they fenfibly feel how dear they pay
for the Want of it.
To preferve and continue the Chriftian
Religion in ſuch Places, may be justly called.
the Propagation of it. "Tis, in a manner,.
introducing Chriſtianity again among them;
'tis reviving that Doctrine where it is almoft
forgot; and tranfmitting it down to fucceed-
ing Generations, in which it would other-.
wife be quite unknown.
As the Importance of the Plantations to
the Wealth and Power of Britain, is now fo
well understood, it muſt upon all Accounts:
appear highly neceffary to introduce and pre-
ferve among them the Principles of Religion,
with its uſeful Train of Virtues, beneficial
ta
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
21
to Us as well as to Them, Industry and
Frugality, Temperance and Honefty.
IN the Courfe of Divine Providence, 'tis
always found, that a general Diſregard and
Contempt of Religion, is attended with great
Diffoluteness of Manners; Perfonal Virtues
are little practiſed, all focial Regard and true
publick Spirit, nay, common Honefty and
fair Dealing, are neglected and laid afide;
the moſt wholefome Laws are broken, and
Government itſelf defpifed: The Wifeft and
the Best of Men, have therefore judged the
publick Worship of God reaſonable in itſelf,
and highly uſeful in the World.
THE Meeting in one regular and peace-
able Affembly, to acknowledge the Goodness
and Authority of the fame Heavenly Father;
to offer joint Petitions for the ſame Blef-
fings upon the Petitioners themſelves, and
the whole Human Race; as it preſerves a juſt
Awe of God upon the Mind, ſo it unites Men
together, brings them to a focial Difpofition,
and improves all the natural Sentiments of
Juftice, Benevolence, and Friendship.
BESIDES; the Refting from the Labour.
and Hurry of conftant Employment, to make
a Paufe, and confider the Religious and Mo-
ral Part of Life, is not more neceffary to re-
fresh the Body, than it is ufeful to improve
the
22
A SERMON before the Society
the Mind. It gives Time for, and with pro-
per Inftruction, leads Men to ferious Reflec-
tion; and ferious Reflection feldom fails of
producing good Effects.
NOR have the common Affairs of Life,
the Buſineſs and the Commerce of the World,
ever been carried on without fome Appeal
to the Higher Powers: An OATH for Con-
firmation has, in every Age, been accounted
the End of all Strife. The Effect of this fo-
lemn Invocation, wherein the Security of a
Government, Property, Reputation, and even
Life itſelf are fo deeply concerned, altogether
depends upon the Regard that is paid to the
Deity, by him that ſwears.
WHEN once Men become regardleſs of
Religion, have no juft Senſe of the Knowledge
and the Power of the Almighty, to punish
their Falfhood; 'tis no wonder if Perjury,
pernicious and fatal as it is, greatly prevail
in the World.
*
NOR can it be at all expected that thofe,
who deſpiſe the Authority, and defy the
Power of God himfelf, fhould treat their
Fellow Creatures, whatever be their Rank,
with more Reſpect and Reverence, than they
fhew to the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords,
the Bleſſed and only Potentate. They who
are not afraid of the Moft High, that ruleth
in
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
23
in Heaven, will ftand in no-great Awe of
the Powers, that govern upon Earth. "Tis
natural for fuch ignorant and prefumptuous
Men to defpife Dominion, and speak Evil of
Dignities. But melancholy and difagreeable
as this Profpect is, it muſt be viewed a little
farther.
{
1
FROM the Want of a due Senfe of Reli-
gion, and from a Neglect of the true Wor-
ſhip of God, Men not only grow leſs juſt
and beneficent to each other, lefs dutiful and
obedient to their lawful Superiors, leſs fear-
ful of an Oath, and are more eaſily induced
to take a falfe one; but in the Event, this
muſt certainly diffolve the Bands of Union
among Mankind, and deftroy the very Being
of Society. From this fad State of Irreli-
gion and Immorality, Men eaſily ſink into
an ignorant and favage Barbarity. When
they have learned to defpife Human Laws,
which to fuch Men is an eafy Leffon, and
own the Authority of no common Superior
to influence and awe them; when there arė
no mutual Ties, no common Principles to
hold them together, they muft neceffarily
break in pieces, and by unavoidable Inter-
ferings in Intereft, or Pleaſure, become mu-
tual Enemies. Thus the Apoftle deſcribes
their Cafe, ferving diverfe Lufts and Plea-
น
fures,
24
A SERMON before the Society
1
fures, living in Malice and Envy, hateful
and hating one another. The Principles of
true Religion not being inculcated and che-
rished, the Knowledge of it, muft gradual-
ly decreaſe and wear away. From this fad
State of Ignorance, Men naturally fall into
grofs Superftition. "Tis the common Tranfi-
tion from having no Religion, at all, to
chooſe the very worst. So difagreeable
is this Picture of Mankind, fo fhocking to
every confiderate Mind, that for the Honour
of Human Nature, one would wish to draw
a Veil over it: But too many of our Fellow
Creatures feel the Certainty of it. To take
notice therefore of their deep Diſtreſs, is
neceffary to move Compaffion towards them,
and to preferve others from falling into the
like Calamity.
[
THE Confiderations that have been of-
fered, are ſufficient to fhew the Neceffity
there is of preſerving a Senſe of Religion a-
mong the Inhabitants of our Foreign Settle-
ments, both for their Sakes, and our own, if
it is defired they ſhould be uſeful and advan-
tageous to this Kingdom. What has been
faid, is not mere Surmife and Speculation,
but is confirmed by Evidence too ſtrong and
convincing. Whatever may be falfely thought
of the fufficient Security and Happineſs of
a
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
25
>
a People, where fome Degrees of Know-
ledge,, a few Beams of Light ftill remain ;
yet when the Ignorance becomes exceeding
great, the Darkneſs almoft total, their Con-
dition is apparently wretched and deplorable.
CC
REPEATED Accounts and Deſcriptions
of the Coast of Guinea, from whence our
Slaves come, and other Parts of Africa, fur-
nish melancholy Proof of the miſerable
State of poor Creatures, deftitute of the
Knowledge of true Religion, who have ſub-
ftituted in the Room of it (as is ufual in
their Condition) the moſt fuperftitious, ab-
furd; and impious Ceremonies. They are
"all without Exception (fays an Author of
"good Credit, * who dwelt among them)
"crafty, villainous, and fraudulent; being
"fure to flip.no Opportunity of cheating
"an European, nor indeed one another;
They ſeem to be born and bred Villains;
"all Sorts of Baſeneſs having got fuch foot-
ing among them, 'tis impoffible to lie
"concealed. Thefe degenerate Vices are
accompanied with Sloth and Idleneſs, to
"which they are ſo prone, that nothing but
the utmoft Neceffity can force them to
"Labour. Murder, Adultery, and Theft,
"are here accounted no Sins.
<<
*C
<c
*
D
See Bofman's Defcription of the Coaſt of Guinca.
"TIS
26
A SERMON before the Society
1 2
}
'Tis no wonder that Superftitions, ſo
impious and abfurd as thofe which prevail
among them, ſhould give Rife and Encou
ragement to Practices, the most pernicious.
and immoral.
1
THO' fome of the Indians upon the À-
merican Continent, are not in every refpect
fo abominably bad, yet many foolifh and
wicked Superftitions prevail among that un-
inftructed People; many and great Immo-
ralities, Rapin and horrid Cruelties, are uni-
verfally committed by them.
OTHER Parts of the World might be
produced as Proofs, that where no juft Prin-
ciples of Religion obtain among the People,
they degenerate into great Barbarity, and
become almoft Savages: But I mention the
Blacks and Indians, becaufe with fuch this
Society is more immediately concerned, in
the English Settlements.
OUR Own People are in great Hazard,
without Affiftance from hence, of falling in-
to the like unhappy State of Ignorance and
Wickednefs. The Generality of them, as
was obferved before, carry abroad a ſlender
Share of Knowledge, which muft foon be
loft in their Circumftances; where Neceffity.
clofely engages fo many in providing for
their Subfiftance, and the eager Defire fpee-
}
dily
!
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
27
+
dily to raiſe a Fortune, and return Home,
engroffes the Thoughts of others. Were
thefe People left to themſelves, very few
would find Time ſeriouſly to think of Re-
ligion. In many Places they are not able,
from their own Stock, to provide for the
publick Support of Divine Worship. Of
this there needs no other Proof, than the
many earnest Letters and Petitions, penned
with an honeft Simplicity, by well difpof-
ed Perfons among themſelves, who fenfibly
feel the growing Evil. Under this Convic-
tion they offer to contribute their utmoſt,
in fome Places to continue, in others to in-
troduce the Worſhip of God; and declare
themſelves ready to erect Churches for this
Purpoſe, where they have not yet been able
to build commodious Habitations for them-
felves. Theſe importunate Petitions, from
People who actually fuffer the Inconvenien-
cies complained of, have been frequently
Jupported by ftrong Repreſentations from
their Governors, equally expreffive of the
Neceffity there is to preſerve a Senfe of Re-
ligion, by Inftruction fent from hence.
Such moving Entreaties, thus confirmed,
ſhould awaken in every Breaft the Senti-
ments of Humanity and Religion, tho' there
were no peculiar Obligation to confider
them
D 2
28
A SERMON before the Society
them as Countrymen and Fellow-Subjects.
All who enjoy any Advantages from thefe
ufeful Plantations; and who is there that
does not receive fome Pleaſure or Profit
from their Productions? All, who enjoy
Advantages from the Labour of theſe Peo-
ple, ſhould lend a kind Affiftance in a Point
fo effential to their Welfare. Thoſe eſpe-
cially, who have improved their Fortunes by
Commerce with theſe Countries, are under
uncommon Obligations, to teſtify their Gra-
titude to a kind Providence, that has dif-
tinguiſhed them from the Poor Inhabitants,
whoſe Care and. Induſtry have been the
Foundation of their Affluence and Eaſe.
'Tis a very important and extenfive Part
of this Society's Concern, to continue and
encreaſe a Senſe of Religion among the En-
glish, who inhabit thoſe large and numerous
Settlements, that belong to this Kingdom.
BUT befides the Care of our own People,
the Society earneſtly recommends the mife--
rable Cafe of their unhappy Negro Slaves.
The harder State of Bondage theſe poor
Creatures, engaged in Labour for our Plea-
fure and Advantage, muft now endure;
the more reaſonable it is, to alleviate that
Diftrefs, by furnishing their Minds with
good Principles. The Profpects of future
Happi-
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
29
Happineſs, would make their prefent Ser-
vitude more eafy: The Inftructions of
Chriſtianity, would correct thoſe evil Dif-
pofitions, Falfhood, Sullennefs, Revenge,
and Cruelty, which are too often found a-
mong them. As they greatly ſtand in need
of being taught, fo it appears by many In-
ſtances, they don't want a Capacity to learn.
Thoſe who are advanced in Years, and re-
member their, Native Country, which, bad
as it is, has always ftrong Attractives, may
be more obftinate and unteachable; yet o-
thers, not fo far advanced in Life, eſpecial-
ly Children born there, might with greater
Eafe be taught the Principles of Religion
and Virtue; and thereby render'd more
faithful and more ufeful to their Mafters.
"Tis a conftant Direction to every Minifter
employed Abroad, to inftruct the Negroes
that belong to the Inhabitants allotted to
his Care. Peculiar Teachers, or Catechifts,
are likewiſe appointed for this good Pur-
poſe; nor have the Endeavours uſed for in-
Aructing theſe poor Creatures been without
Succeſs. The Annual Accounts of the Pro-
ceedings of the Society, furniſh frequent In-
ftances of their Converfion. To carry on.
the good Work more effectually, a parti-
Qular Fund is appointed for that Purpoſe,
which
30
A SERMON before the Society
+
which has received Affiſtance from feveral
pious and charitable Hands; but ftill falls
ſhort, very ſhort, of what is abfolutely ne-
ceffary to accomplish the compaffionate
Defign.
•
BUT there is ftill more Work upon this
great Continent; befides the English Inha-
bitants and their Negro Slaves, there are
dark Corners of the Earth, now the Habi-
tations of Cruelty. The Condition of whole
Nations of bordering Indians, loudly calls
for Pity and Affiftance. Care fhould be ta-
ken, firſt to civilize their rude and ſavage
Manners, to form them into regular Socie-
ties, and inftruct them in the Ufe and Prac-
tice of Manual Arts; to bring them to
what, they feem greatly to want, a Senſe of
Good and Evil, Virtue and Vice. For what-
ever may be thought of the Worship ob-
ferved among them, it amounts to little
more than deprecating, with ftrange Super-
ftitions, the Calamities they feel; or pray-
ing for fome temporal Benefit they want.
Such Worſhip is no Proof of a Senſe of
moral Obligation, or that they confider the
Deity as a Judge of their moral Conduct.
Their uncivilized manner of Life, their
horrid Cruelty, their hurtful Superftitions,
and grofs Ignorance, plead ftrongly for bet-
ter
for the Propagation of the Gofpel. 3.I
ter Inftruction. But if the Reverſe happen
to them, 'tis their great Misfortune to come
under the Tutorage of fuch cruel Neigh-
bours. Heavy is their Load of Guilt, who,
inſtead of civilizing and reforming thefe
poar ignorant Creatures, teach them a new
Vice, firft learn them Drunkenness, and
then pour in upon them vaſt
upon them vaſt Quantities of
intoxicating Liquors, to fpread the wicked
and deſtructive Practice, that has already
made dreadful Havock, and muſt in a little
Time depopulate whole Countries. How
different is the Management of our power-
ful Neighbours in the French Settlements?
They wifely endeavour to civiliza, to fof-
ren and inftruct the wild Indians; and by
promoting. Intermarriages with them, unite
them to their own People. This at once
enlarges their Territories, and increases the
Number of ufeful Hands, to cultivate and
improve them. How far it is proper for
us to imitate this Practice in every Particu
lar, it little becomes me to determine.
THE Inftruction of theſe Neighbouring
Indians, and of thofe mixt with our own
People in New England and New York, the
Society here prefent has earnestly recom-
mended. Their beft Endeavours have been
employed, and are fill continued, efpecially
among
32
A SERMON before the Society
i
among thoſe Indians that border upon Al-
bany. But for this, as well as their other
good Defigns, they stand in need of farther
Affiftance and Encouragement. That Kind
Providence, which has already infpired fo
many worthy Benefactors, Friends of Reli-
gion and Virtue, and of courfe Lovers of
Mankind, will, they hope, greatly encreafe
the Number. Their certain Annual In-
come, bears a very fmall Proportion to their
certain and ENCREASING Annual Expence,
in Miffionaries, Catechifts, and Schoolmaf
ters; together with a conftant Supply of
neceffary and uſeful Books, and many other
incidental Charges.
蠢
​THE Work itſelf is noble and impor-
tant; 'tis no leſs than to promote the pre-
ſent and future Happineſs of great Num-
bers of our Fellow Creatures, who inhabit
ſuch vaft Countries. As the English Settle-
ments ſpread, the Care of the Society en-
larges. No fooner is a new Country peo-
pled, but a tender Regard is ſhown to the
Infant Colony. Thus, the poor Inhabitants of
GEORGIA, fcarce fettled there, are already
fupplied with a Miniſter by this Society.
A Society, whoſe only Buſineſs it is, to ſpread
the beſt Religion, where there is the great
eſt Want of it. To publiſh among the Igno-
rant
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
33
•
rant and the Vitious, that Grace of God
which bringeth Salvation, teaching all Men,
to deny Ungodliness and Worldly Lufts, and
live foberly, righteously, and godly in this
preſent World; looking for that Bleſſed Hope,
and the glorious Appearing of the great God,
and our Saviour Jeſus Chriſt.
'Tis to be hoped, no proper Encourage-
ment and Support will ever be wanting to
a Work like this; where Humanity and Re-
ligion, where the Happiness of our Fellow
Creatures, the Good of our Country, and the
Glory of God, are fo greatly concerned. A
Work fo important, and fo very extenfive,
can only be fupported by generous and boun-
tiful Supplies: A Defign fo uſeful and ad-
vantageous, is not to be carried on Grudg-
ingly, or of Neceffity; but with a free Heart
and liberal Hand: God loveth, and will
certainly reward every chearful Giver.
FINI S
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Pariſh-Church of St. Mary-le-Bow;
On Friday the 21st of February, 1734.
BY
FRANCIS, Lord Biſhop of Chicheſter.
LONDON:
Printed by S. BUCKLEY, 1735.
At the Anniversary Meeting of the Society
for the Propagation of the Goſpel in
Foreign Parts..
A
21ft February, 1734.
GREED, That the Thanks of the
SOCIETY be given to the Right Re-
verend the Lord Bifhop of Chichester, for
his Sermon preached this Day before the
SOCIETY, and that he be defired to print
the fame.
鹭
​}
David Humphreys,
Secretary.
Rom. x. 13, 14, 15.
Whosoever shall call upon the Name
of the Lord, fhall be faved.
How then fhall they call on him, in
whom they have not believed? And
how shall they believe in him, of
whom they have not heard? And
how shall they hear without a
Preacher ?
And how fhall they preach, except
they be fent?
T
HE Argument contained in
thefe Words is too plain to
need any Explication. Salva-
tion is in the Goſpel offer'd
to all Men, to all Nations
without Diſtinction, not con-
fined to one People, as was the Law given
by Mofes. Whosoever shall any where call
upon the Name of the Lord, fhall be ca-
A 2
pable
3
4
A Sermon before the Society
فر
1
pable of the Salvation purchaſed by him.
The Goſpel makes no Difference between
the Jew and the Greek; that is, the Gentile,.
or People of other Nations: For the fame
is Lord over all, and rich in Mercy and
Goodneſs unto all that call upon him. But
to what Purpoſe is Salvation offer'd to all
Men, if none be ſent to make known theſe
glad Tidings, and to declare the Conditions
on which this Offer is made to them? To
this End an Appointment of a Miniſtry is
neceffary, and that fome Provifion be made
for the Maintenance of thoſe who ſhall be
fent. But if this be neceffary, nothing can
be a more convincing Proof of the great
Uſefulneſs of the Society here aſſembled,
whoſe chief Defign and Care is to propa-
gate the Knowledge of this Salvation into
the new World, into the Plantations and
Colonies we have in America, and the Weſt-
Indies, by the moſt effectual Ways they can,
and particularly by providing a competènt
Number of fit Miniſters. And as this and the
other Provifions neceffary for this good Work
can't be fupported and carried on, much leſs
extended and enlarged, without a very con-
fiderable Expence, for which there is no
other Fund, but what ariſes from their own
voluntary Subfcriptions, and the Charity of
other pious and well-difpofed Perfons; what-
ever is an Argument for providing Miniſters
and other Requifites for this Miflion, is, at
the
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c.
5
the fame Time an Argument to all ferious
and good Chriftians, to be liberal in their
Contributions, according to the Abilities
with which God hath bleffed them, towards
raiſing, from Time to Time, fuch Sums as ſhall
be wanted for the effectual carrying on ſo great
an Undertaking. I can't therefore, I apprehend,
better anſwer the End of your Anniverſary
Meeting in this Place, than by employing the
Time allowed me, in an Endeavour to excite
the Benevolence and kind Affiftance of good
Men in Support of fo uſeful a Defign. And
this, as to the Preacher's Part, is indeed an
eafy Task, when the Defign he recommends
is fo excellent and ufeful in its End, and is
conducted and carried into Execution by fuch
unexceptionable, fuch juft and proper Means,
and when the Motives which induce to the
Support of it, are ſo reaſonable, and ſo well
known. And Difcourfes of this Nature
would be as effectual as they are eaſy, if
thoſe they are addrefs'd to, had the Zeal of
the firſt Chriſtians, who thought nothing too
much which it was in their Power to do,
where the Honour of their God and Saviour,
and the Good of their Fellow-Creatures call-
ed for an extraordinary Exertion of their
Piety and Charity. Nothing makes the
Preacher's Part on this Occafion difficult, but
that you have already heard fo many excel-
lent Diſcourſes upon the fame Subject. But
fince the fame Calls upon this Society arc
ftill
6
A Sermon before the Society
ſtill continued, I ſhould rather fay, increaſed,
which requires an Augmentation of Miffio-
naries, and a proportionable Increaſe of other
Expences, fuch Difcourfes are ftill neceffary;
and you will have Patience to hear the old
Arguments in Favour of this Charity ſtill
urged to you, fince Arguments, good in them-
felves, are not the lefs fo, becauſe they are
not new, which, in fuch a Cafe as this, it
would be unreaſonable to expect; for what
can be fuppofed to be left, which in a
Courſe of ſo many Years has not been al-
ready faid.
No Charity can ftand clearer of all Objec-
tions, or have more reaſonable and juſter
Motives to encourage it, than this you are now
exhorted to. For, firſt, The Deſign of this Soci-
ety is the moſt excellent and ufeful in its End,
which is to propagate the Gospel in Foreign
Parts: And this, as is fet forth in the Char-
ter by which they are incorporated, imme-
diately and principally means, to propagate
the Knowledge of the Goſpel among our own
People in fuch of our Colonies, " which by
"Reaſon of their Poverty are deftitute and
<<
unprovided of a Maintenance for Mini-
fters, and the publick Worfhip of God;
"and for Lack of fuch Support and Main-
tenance, many of them feem abandoned
to Atheifin and Infidelity, or are in Dan-
ger of being perverted to Popifh Superfti-
"tion and Idolatry." This Society there-
८८
re
fore
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 7
fore is incorporated by the Royal Authority,
"to receive, manage, and diſpoſe of the
"Charity of fuch pious Perfons who fhall
"be willing to contribute to the Support of
re
a ſtanding Miniſtry among them, and to-
"wards fuch other Provifion as fhall be found
"neceffary for the fuccefsful Propagation of
"the Goſpel in thoſe Parts." This is the
End for which this Society is incorporated;
it is to reſcue an infinite Number of poor
People, who ftand in a near Relation to us,
as Subjects of the fame Government, and
very uſeful ones too, out of a State of the
greateſt Miſery, and bring them into a Ca-
pacity of the greateſt Happiness. For what
can be a State of greater Mifery, than to be
over-run with Ignorance and Error, to be un-
der the Guilt and Dominion of Sin, and as
the juſt Reward of it, under the heavy Wrath
and Diſpleaſure of Almighty God? And what
on the other hand can be greater Happineſs,
than for rational Creatures to have their Un-
derſtandings enlightned with the Knowledge
of divine Truths, to be affured of Pardon
and Forgiveneſs for paft Offences, and to
have a well-grounded Hope upon Faith and
Repentance of an Eternal Salvation referved
in the Heavens for them?
We may not perhaps be fo fenfible of the
Greatness either of this Mifery, or of this
Happineſs, becauſe we never have experimen-
tally known what a State of Heathenifm is,
and
8
A Sermon before the Society
and do not fee in their full Force the great
Advantages of Chriſtianity, thro' the ill Lives
of too many who are Chriftians in Name
only. But it is not the leſs true in itſelf,
that the Gospel, in the Nature of it, is the
Power of God to Salvation, and that with-
out it Mankind were in the moſt miſerable
and deplorable Condition; and fo they ftill
are, where its Light has not fhined; and it
would be again fo in all Parts, were the
Light of the Goſpel again withdrawn. Who-
ever confiders the State the Goſpel found the
World in, or underſtands the true Deſign and
Nature of it, as 'tis deliver'd to us in the
New Teftament, or the wonderful Effects it
had in the Reformation of the World upon
the firſt ſpreading of it, muſt be convinced
of the Truth of this. Nothing is more evi-
dent, than that in the Gofpel, Terms of Par-
don and Salvation are offered to a wicked
World, a World overfpread with the groffeft
and moſt abfurd Idolatry; and their Morality
was of a Piece with their Theology. And
what better could be expected? What Prin-
ciples of Virtue could be learnt or cultivated
under fo much Ignorance? Or what Obliga-
tions to moral Duties could arife from the
Belief and Worſhip of fuch Deities? What
Influence from fuch Examples, but to copy
after the Vices many of them were diftin-
guifh'd by? What had they to fear from their
Diſpleaſure, if they indulged themſelves in
Sin;
1
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c.
9
Sin; or what Favours had they to hope for,
from a better Life? They neither knew the
Excellence of Virtue, nor were taught the
Rules of it; nor if they had, had they Mo-
tives laid before them ftrong enough to make
them perſevere in the Obfervance of them.
For their Expectations of a future State were
either none at all, or too weak to have any
great Influence on their Practice: And while
their Views were bounded within this Life,
all Things happen'd too much alike to all,
to impress deeply on them a juft Senſe of
an over-ruling Providence, and make them
prefer, in Obedience to it, Virtue and Self-
denial to the immediate Pleaſures and Inter-
eſts with which Vice tempted them.
Thus, in the Reafon of Things, it muſt
have been in Nations fo devoid of the Know-
ledge of God and Providence, and fuch in
Fact we find it was in the Hiftories of thoſe
Times when this Ignorance prevailed.
prevailed. We
need only look into the Firſt Chapter of the
Epiftle to the Romans, to be convinced of
the monstrous Idolatry and Immorality which
the Goſpel found the World immersed in.
'Tis to little Purpofe to urge Reafon againſt
Fact, and to ſet up the Law and Light of
Nature against Revelation, and to talk of the
great Things that may be done by them, as
if they were of themfelves, and without
other Affiſtance, fufficient to teach Men their
Duty to God and to one another: Hiftory
B
and
IO
A Sermon before the Society
and Fact are on the other Side; our Saviour
found the World under the greateſt Ignorance
of the true God, and the groffeft Corruption
of Manners, which is the fulleft Proof that can
be, how much a Revelation was wanted.
And the Event abundantly confirmed the fame
Truth; prodigious was the Alteration made
by the Preaching of the Goſpel, with refpect
both to the Religion and Manners of Men;
Idolatry was baniſhed from a great Part of
the known World in a few Years, and Vici-
oufneſs of Manners in infinite Numbers of
Men vaniſhed with it, and they became new
Creatures; all Things were created anew in
Chrift Fefus. The World foon found the
Advantage of having a Teacher ſent to them
from God, who had both Knowledge fuffici-
ent to inſtruct them in the whole Will of God,
and in all Parts of their Duty, both to him
and to one another; and alfo Authority fuf-
ficient to give his Precepts the Force of Laws,
Laws that would reach the Thoughts and
Heart, as well as the outward Actions, and
to fecure the Obfervance of them by the
greateſt and moſt powerful of all Sanctions,
everlaſting Puniſhment, and Life Eternal in a
future State. And what was ftill a greater
Bleffing to Mankind, in this fad and deplo-
rable Condition in which the Goſpel found
them, this heavenly Teacher, and he alone
could give them what they moſt wanted and
could leaſt hope for, Affurance of Pardon
upon
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c.
II
upon their repenting and believing in him.
for Sins paft, and of the Affiftance of the
Holy Spirit to ſtrengthen their Refolutions of
Amendment, and fupport them in their En-
deavours after Piety and Virtue for the
Time to come. Such a Teacher from God
was neceffary to inftruct and reform the
World; fuch a Teacher in Fact did come,
and did all that could be wifhed, more than
could be expected by Men who had fo greatly
offended.
I fhall not purſue this Argument farther,
both becauſe it would lead me too far from
my preſent Buſineſs, and becauſe it has very
lately been the Subject of very able Pens, which
have left the Infidel Caufe without Excufe
and if Men, who pretend to defire Con-
viction would read, they muſt yeild. I am
now ſpeaking to a Chriſtian Audience; to
fuch I have already faid enough; they believe
the Scriptures, and are acquainted with
them, more eſpecially with the Books of the
New Teſtament; there they find not only a
Hiſtory of our Saviour's Life and Death, what
he did and fuffer'd for us, but what he
taught as the Will of God, what his Doctrines
and Commands are, as deliver'd by himſelf.
And in the Acts, a Book which can never
be too much read, we fee what the Goſpel
in Subſtance is, as deliver'd and taught by
his Apoſtles; there we fee in what Manner
St. Peter and St. Paul preach'd to the Jews,
B 2
and
I 2
A Sermon before the Society.
and in what Manner to the Gentiles, and in
what Condition the Gofpel found both of
them. In the Epiſtle to the Romans, which,
on Account of the Importance of the Subject,
and the ſuitable Care it is treated with, hath
deſervedly the firſt Place among St. Paul's
Writings; the Neceffity of embracing, the
Goſpel in order to Salvation, and to obtain
Pardon of Sin, is fully fhewn. In the firſt
Chapter of that Epiftle, St. Paul, as I have
already obſerved, fets forth the extreme Wick-
edness of the Gentile World at that Time;
in the ſecond, that the Jews were little bet-
ter; and from thefe Premifes, in the third
he infers the Neceflity of Faith in Chrift, fince
all have fin'd, and come short of the Glory
of God, and no Juftification can be had by
Works; that therefore finful Man. can be
juftified only by the Righteoufness of God,
which is by Faith of Jefus Chrift, whom
God hath fet forth to be a Propitiation thro
Faith in his Blood, to declare his Righteouf
nefs for the Remiffion of Sins that are past.
Whoever believes this Reprefentation given
by St. Paul, will want no other Arguments
to convince him of the wretched State the
World was in before our Saviour came, and
confequently of the Neceffity there was of
his coming, to reform and redeem Loft Man;
he will be thoroughly convinced, that the
World was to an extreme Degree void of all
true Religion and Virtue; and that if the
Pro
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c.
13
Providence of God were at all concerned in
the Government of the World, nothing could
refult from thence, but a fearful looking for
of Judgment; that they were the Children of
Wrath, being the Children of Difobedience,
and in all Views moft miferable; and that
confequently the Revelation of the Goſpel
was the greateſt Bleffing God could, in this
diftrefs'd Condition, give to Man, by in-
ftructing him in all faving Knowledge, by
giving him the plaineft, and, at the fame
Time, the moſt perfect Rules of Duty, by
renewing him in the Spirit of his Mind by
the Affiſtance and Influence of his Grace,
and by encouraging his Obedience by the Pro-
mife of the greateſt Happineſs.
But if this was the Condition of the Hea-
then World before it was enlightned by the
Goſpel, we may eafily imagine what would
be the Condition of our own American Co-
lonies, if for Want of due Inſtruction in the
Gofpel, they were fuffered to fall into Hea-
thenifm. We may be very fure they would
fall into the fame Ignorance of the true God,
into the fame Want of moral Principles, and
into the fame Corruption of Manners, tho
not perhaps into the fame Idolatry. But that
would not at all mend their Condition; In-
fidelity and Atheiſm have no Advantage of
Idolatry; if there be a total Ignorance of the
true God, whether Idolatry, or the Belief of
no fuperior Beings be fubftituted in the Room
of
14.
A Sermon before the Society
of a true and rational Belief, there will be
no Foundation left for moral Principles to
be built on, and from thence will neceffarily
follow a total Corruption and Depravity of
Manners. The Cafe therefore of theſe Co-
lonies would, on this Suppofition, be as de-
plorable as that of any other Heathen Nations.
Who then that confiders the extreme
Wretchedneſs of ſuch a finful State, and the
Mifery both Preſent and Future, confequent
upon it, can poffibly doubt with himſelf,
whether any thing can be more excellent and
uſeful than the Defign of this Society, who,
in Charity to the Souls of their poor Bre-
thren, do all in their Power to propagate
the Goſpel among them, with no other View,
but to deliver them from the greateſt Mi-
fery, and bring them into a Capacity of the
greateſt Happineſs?
}
Charity is, we all know, moft eminently
diſtinguiſhed in the Goſpel above all other
Virtues; and next to the Love of God, the
Love of our Neighbour is the greateſt Duty
of a Chriftian, and without which the Love
of God is in vain pretended to; and we
know likewife in what a Latitude our Saviour
has explained the Duty of Loving our Neigh-
bour, fo as to take in all Mankind. But if
this Love in us be fincere, it will exert itſelf
according to its Power in all proper Inſtan-
ces, towards the Relief of thoſe who want
our Affiftance in Diftreffes of every Kind.
And
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c.
15
And to a faithful and chearful Diſcharge of
this Duty, we have in the Gofpel the great-
eft Encouragement, Whoever, fays our Sa-
viour, fhall give a Cup of cold Water, in the
Name of a Difciple, verily I say unto you,
he shall in no wife lofe his Reward; and in
the Defcription himſelf gives of the Laft
Judgment, the great Enquiry will be into
our Works of Charity. And how ſtrongly
a lively Senſe of their Obligations to this
Duty operated on the firſt Chriſtians, we fee
in the Acts of the Apoſtles; that they fold
their Poffeffions and Goods, and parted them
to all Men, as every Man had need. And
their Charity was not confined to fuch as
were preſent with them, or near to them,
in the fame Town, or City, or Parts adjacent;
they had no fuch narrow Thoughts. We
read Acts xi. that at Anticch, upon Agabus
fignifying to them by the Spirit, that there
would be a great Dearth, which came to
pass in the Days of Claudius, the Difciples;
every Man according to his Ability, deter-
mined to fend Relief unto the Brethren,
which dwelt in Judea: Which accordingly
they did, and fent it to the Elders by the
Hands of Barnabas and Paul; thofe Elders-
probably, who were appointed in the feventh
of the Acts, to take Care of the Poor, that.
the Apoſtles themſelves might be wholly at
Liberty to preach the Word. And ftill from
remoter Parts the Difciples fent Relief to the
Bre-
..1.6
A Sermon before the Society
Brethren at Jerufalem. St. Paul, in his firſt
Epistle to the Corinthians, earneſtly exhorts
them to this Duty, as he had before done the
Galatians. Now concerning the Collection for
the Saints, as I have given Order to the
Churches of Galatia, even fo do ye. Upon
the first Day of the Week, (the Lord's-Day)
let every one of you lay by him in Store, as
God hath profpered him. --And when I come,
whomsoever ye shall approve, them will I
Send to bring your Liberality to Jerufalem.
And what Effect his Exhortations had, we
find in his fecond Epiftle to the Corinthians,
in which he commends them for their ready
Compliance with him: As touching the Mi-
niftry to the Saints, it is fuperfluous that I
write unto you. For I know the Forward-
nefs of your Minds, for which I boast of
you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia (of
which Corinth was the principal City) was
ready a Year ago; and your Zeal hath provo-
ked many.
And St. Paul himfelf carried
thefe Contributions to Jerufalem, as appears
by what he tells the Romans, Ch. xv. 25.
But now I go to Jerufalem, to minister to the
Saints. For it hath pleafed them of Mace-
donia and Achaia, to make a certain Contribu-
tion for the poor Saints which are at Jeru-
1alem. And in faying this St. Paul fuffici-
ently intimates to them, that it is their Du-
ty to follow this Example; for he immedi-
ately fubjoins thefe remarkable Words: It
hath
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 17
hath pleafed them verily, and their Debtors
they are: So that in St. Paul's Judgment in
doing this, they only paid a Debt; For if
the Gentiles, fays he, have been made Par-
takers of their Spiritual Things, their Duty
is alfo to minifter unto them in carnal
Things.
Thus ready were the firft Chriftians to relieve
the temporal and bodily Neceffities of their
Brethren by very liberal Contributions, even
in Parts greatly diſtant and remote from them.
But if they were thus forward to aflift them in
Things relating to the Body only, and for
their Support and Maintenance during their
Thort State of Pilgrimage here on Earth; how
much more ready may we fuppofe they were,
to relieve their Spiritual Wants; and in or-
der to that, to provide a Maintenance where
it was wanted, for thoſe who would undertake
the good Work of Preaching Chriſt to them
that fat in Darkneſs, that they might be de-
liver'd from the Captivity and Slavery of Sin
and Satan, and be converted and live, by be-
ing made the Sons of God, and Heirs of
Eternal Salvation? The Miniftration of ſuch
Service not only fupplies the earthly, the bo-
dily, the temporary Wants of Men; but
what is infinitely more valuable, it fupplies
Wants which could not otherwife be fup-
plied; Wants, under which not their Bodies
but their Souls muſt have perifhed everlaſt-
ingly. For, as those who have finned in the
C
Law,
18
A Sermon before the Society
Law, fhall be judged by the Law; ſo the
Scripture declares, that those who have finned
without Law, ſhall alſo perish without Law.
To give Light to them that fit in Darkneſs
and the Shadow of Death, to proclaim Re-
demption to the Captive, to publiſh Pardon
and Salvation to Men bound faft in the
Chains of Sin, and for their Sin by the juſt
Judgment of God referved for everlasting
Chains of Darkness in a future State, is the
nobleft, the moſt uſeful, the moft excellent
Charity Man can bestow upon his Fellow-
Creatures; and to deliver. Men out of fo
much Mifery, or to keep them from falling
into it, is in Effect one and the fame Thing,
and equally charitable. But this is the End
propoſed by this Society. Some other chari-
table Inſtitutions have by fome been called
in Queſtion, and a Doubt has been made, whe-
ther upon the whole they were uſeful or not,
on Account of fome Inconveniences they think
they fee in them, or feem to apprehend from
them. I am far from thinking the Objecti-
ons of fuch Men well founded, or of great
Weight; but made, 'tis certain, they have
been, and ſtill are. But no body, who calls
himſelf a Chriſtian, ever pretended to fay,
that Chriſtianity ought not to be propagated:
No body ever faid, it was not for the Ho-
nour of God and his Chriſt, to make his
Name known among the Gentiles, and to
(pread his Religion to the Ends of the Earth:
No
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c.
19
No body ever maintained, it was not for the
Benefit of Man to be taught the Knowledge
of God, to be inftructed in the Rules of Vir-
tue, to be affured of the Pardon of his Sins,
and to be entituled to the Privileges and
Promiſes of the Gofpel: Much leſs can any
ferious and fincere Chriftian be under any
Doubt, whether he ought not to wish for,
and in his Station endeavour to preferve, the
Continuance of the Light of the Gofpel, and
prevent by all proper Methods, the Extinc-
tion of it in thoſe Parts of the World, that
have been peopled from their own Mother-
Country. This is a Part impoffible for Men
to act, who have the Cauſe of Virtue and
Religion at all at Heart, any Zeal for the
Honour of God, or any Benevolence towards
their Fellow-Creatures.
But if this Deſign be fo good in its End, and
fo free from all Objections, 'tis not lefs unex-
ceptionable in reſpect to the Means by which
'tis carried on, fo far as this Society is concern
ed. Some Charities, which in themſelves are
right and highly commendable, have ſometimes
had the Misfortune to be fo ill managed in
fome Refpect or other, as greatly to diſcourage
thoſe who would otherwiſe have been will-
ing and ready to concur in the Support of
them; they have been either in unskilful or
diſhoneſt Hands; there have been either real
or ſuſpected Miſapplications; private Intereſt
has been thought to be ferved under Pretence
C 2
of
20
A Sermon before the Society
of publick Good, and Charity has been either
injudiciouſly and unadviſedly adminiftred, or
diverted from its proper Channel to ſerve a
Party. But the Defign now before us is not
only clear from all Imputations of every
Kind, that could be a Blemiſh to it, but
from every the leaſt Suſpicion of them; there
is no Pretence to fufpect want either of Abi-
lity or Integrity. No Perfons can in Point
of Ability be fuppofed better to underſtand
what are the propereft Methods to be taken
for a fucceſsful Propagation of the Gofpel.
Their Education and Profeffion, the Study
and Buſineſs of their Lives, in whom the
Management of the Affairs of this Society
chiefly is, are fuch as muft naturally beft qua-
lify them for ſuch an Undertaking. And if
it could be apprehended, that their Studies
and Employments here at home were not
fufficient to make them the fittest Judges of
the moſt proper Methods for propagating the
Gofpel in fuch diftant Parts, and in Coun-
tries they are fo unacquainted with, yet it
muſt be allowed, that a long Experience has
abundantly ſupplied all fuch fuppofed Defects.
Experience is, in all Undertakings, of great
Service; and nothing of Importance was
ever yet entred on, that was at firft fo per-
fect, however able Hands it was in, as not
to admit, upon repeated Tryals, of confider-
able Improvements. This Advantage this So-
ciety has been long poffefs'd of, and 'tis
hardly
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c.
21
hardly to be thought, that any Thing now
remains that can render thoſe who ſhall come
after, better qualified for the Management of
this Charity, than thoſe in whoſe Hands it at
preſent is, and has long been. So that we
have all the Certainty that any Man can rea-
fonably defire, that this Defign is not only
well-meant, but carried on by Perfons well
qualified for it, and capable of conducting it in
the beſt and moſt effectual Manner within
their Power.
And if we are fatisfied of their Ability for
this good Work, we can't be leſs fo of their
Integrity. This we have not only the fullcft
Affurance of from their general Character
in Point of Religion and Virtue, and from
the difintereſted Principles and Motives on
which they firft engaged in this Defign, but
from the vifible Effects of it in the whole
Courſe of their Proceedings. Here are no
private or ſelfiſh Interefts aimed at, no Party-
Ends to be ſerved; as they act upon the fame
generous Principles for the Service of our
common Chriſtianity, fo they act with the
greateſt Unity, which is a fure Sign of the
Uprightness of their Intentions; for where
a Number of People acting in a voluntary
Society have corrupt Views, they can't con-
tinue long united; Difcord and Diffenfion
will creep in, while each endeavour to ferve
their own ſiniſter Ends. But nothing of this
Kind has Place here; as they act upon the
fame
22
A Sermon before the Society
!
fame Principles, they have all the fame Views,
and purſue the fame End, to promote and
advance, in the moſt effectual Manner, the
righteous Work they are engaged in ; which
is to propagate in Parts which ſo much want
it, pure and genuine Chriſtianity, reformed
from the Corruptions of Popery, and as it is
deliver❜d to us in the Scriptures.
Their Deſign is not to propagate Popiſh
Errors by Popiſh Methods, but Chriftian
Truths by Chriftian Means; and Men fin-
cerely engaged in fuch a Caufe will natu-
rally preferve Unity among themſelves as
well as Charity. And what is further
much to the Commendation of this So-
ciety, as they act with the ftricteft Unity, fo
they purſue their Work with the greateſt
Conftancy and Diligence; the Caufe has ne-
ver fuffer'd through want of a ſteady Appli-
cation to it; they give their Time and Care
to the Proſecution of this noble Underta-
king, and that without the leaſt perſonal Ad-
vantage or Profit to themſelves, which is one
of the beſt Proofs any Society of Men can
give of their Integrity. And their whole
Conduct is as great a Proof of their Prudence,
as appears by the Rules they have preſcribed
themſelves as the Meaſure of it; what thoſe
Rules are, every one may fee, fince they are
publick, and in Print. And give me Leave
to add, that theſe Rules are not a dead Let-
ter; they are not Rules to be hung up, but
never
for Progagation of the Gospel, &c.
23
never to be obſerved; they are conftantly and
fteadily purfued; they are careful to make
the neceffary Enquiries, and get the beſt In-
formation they can, into the State of Reli-
gion in our feveral Colonies; they receive
impartially and readily Applications from all
Parts of them, and give their Help where
'tis moſt wanted, and in fuch Proportions
as their Fund will permit, confiftently with
the great Variety of Demands made from fo
many Quarters. And as they are thus care-
ful to learn what the Spiritual Wants of theſe
poor People are, and to proportion their
Provifions for them in the beft, and moſt juſt,
and moſt frugal Manner they can; fo are
they in the Choice of thoſe they ſend to
preach the Goſpel to them. It muſt be re-
membred, they have no compulfory Powers
to oblige Perſons to go upon fuch Miffions,
whether they will or no; the Clergy of the
Reformed Churches are not under abfo-
lute Vows of implicit Obedience to their Su-
periors, as they are in the Popifh Seminaries.
It muſt likewiſe be remembred, that the Re-
formed Clergy are not under Vows of Celi-
bacy, as in the Church of Rome, which
makes the Choice of Miffionaries ftill more
difficult; fince Perfons who have Families
can't be fuppofed fo willing to tranſplant
themſelves into foreign Countries; and if
they were, the Expence attending it would
unavoidably be much greater. It is not there-
fore
24
A Sermon before the Society
fore ſo eaſy to get fuch Miffionaries as one
could moſt wifh for, and as fome may ex-
pect they fhould, who have never thoroughly
confidered it. But if they can't do what they
would in this Refpect, 'tis certain they do
what they can; they enquire with all due
Care into the Characters of thoſe who offer
themſelves for theſe Miffions; and if they
ever make a wrong Choice, the Fault is not
theirs, but muſt be laid at their Door who
have impoſed on them by falſe Characters.
But this, I apprehend, has very rarely been
the Cafe, both from the great Precaution
taken to prevent fuch Abuſes, and from the
few Complaints there have been of thoſe
who have been fent; who, that they may
be able to diſcharge the paſtoral Duty well,
have very good and very particular Directi-
ons given them for their Conduct.
And to
enable them ftill further for a right Dif
charge of their Function, they not only give
them good Inftructions, but furniſh them
with good Books alfo. In fhort, they leave
nothing undone, which it is in their Power
to do, in this chief and principal Part of
their Defign, the fending Miffionaries. But
the Society have not ftopt here, they have
not only provided in the beſt Manner they
could, Minifters with competent Salaries for
the publick Worſhip of God, and a due Ad-
miniſtration of his Word and Sacraments to
theſe poor People, but Schools, and Maſters,
and
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c.
25
and Books, for the Education of their Chil-
dren in Virtue, and the Principles of true
Religion.
I might give many other Proofs of the
Zeal and Care of this Society in the Profe-
cution of this good Work; but more need
not be faid to fhew, that this is a moſt uſe-
ful and excellent Defign, and that it requires
a conſtant Attention, and great Prudence al-
fo, to carry it on fuccefsfully; much more
ſo,
ſhall we be convinced of this, if we confider
the vaſt Extent of the Countries to which the
Care of this Society applys itſelf. So exten-
five an Undertaking, 'tis moſt evident, muſt be
attended with a very confiderable Expence, to-
wards which they have no other Fund but what
arifes from their own Contributions, and thoſe
of other well-difpofed Perfons; and if the
whole Fund thus raifed be compared with the
Works in which it has been employ'd, this will
demonftrably fhew how frugally and prudent-
ly this great Defign has been carried on, and
that the Moneys given towards it have not
been unneceffarily difpenfed or mifapplied.
And whoever is able to form a true Judgment
in a Work of this Nature, will rather won-
der the Society have been able to do fo much
with fo flender a Stock, than ask, why they
have not done more? a Queftion unthinking
and unfriendly Men are forward to ask, part-
ly from miſtaking the true Deſign of this
Inſtitution, and partly from not fufficiently
confidering
D
26
A Sermon before the Society
ե
confidering the many and great Difficulties fuch
Work is unavoidably attended with. Some-
Men from the Style of this Society, which:
is for propagating the Gospel in foreign Parts,
are apt to think that their chief, if not fole
Buſineſs is, to convert the wild Indians,
and expect to hear of whole Tribes and Na-
tions of them brought over by their Miffio-
naries to the Chriſtian Faith. But this is
pure Miſtake: This Society, as I have already.
obferved, was incorporated for the Cultiva-
tion of the Chriſtian Religion in our own
Plantations; and among our own People, in
fuch Places where they are fo poor, as not
to be able to maintain a Standing Miniſtry
themſelves, that the Knowledge of God, and
a Senſe of Virtue and Religion might be pre-
ſerved among them. But if that had been
the Defign of this Society, could it be ex-
pected they ſhould propagate the Goſpel with
the fame Succefs, and make the fame quick
Progress in the Converfion of Nations, as
the firſt Chriſtians did? They who think fo,
know little of the Ufe of Miracles, the on-
ly poffible Means of converting Multitudes
at once, and fubduing whole Nations to the
Obedience of the Faith in a few Years, or of
the Uſe of the Gift of Tongues, when the
World is divided into fo many Languages,
which muſt be firft learnt, before Converfi-
ons can poffibly be begun. 'Tis evidently im-
poffible, that thoſe who want theſe Gifts of
Miracles
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c.
27
Miracles and Tongues, fhould make Converts
in fuch Numbers, or with fuch Diſpatch, as
thoſe who had them. To theſe and other
Differences between the primitive Times and
thoſe we live in, I wiſh I could not add the
very different Lives of the Generality of
Chriftians now from what they were then.
This is not only one Difference, but next to
Miracles and Tongues the greateft; there is
a ftrange Charm in Piety and Virtue towards
making Converts, where they fhine out in
an eminent Degree, in their genuine and na-
tive Luftre. People, even wild and favage
People, will flock in, to a Religion, which
they fee has fo great an Influence on thoſe
who recommend it to them; whereas on the
other hand, they will fufpect, diſlike, deteſt
a Religion, whofe Profeffors they fee, in-
ſtead of being made by it more than Men,
are in their Actions worſe than Brutes, de-
filed with all Manner of Vice, full of Ava-
rice, Luxury, Intemperance, and Luft, and
breathing nothing but Cruelty, Falfhood, and
Revenge. I might add, that they who
would convert now the Weft-Indian Nations,
do not only want the Advantages they had
in the primitive Times, but that the Work
itſelf is in many Refpects more difficult.
Chriſtianity at the Beginning was propagated
in a World made up, not of an infinite
Number of little Clans, uſing different Lan-
guages, and thofe totally unlike our Euro-
pean
เ
D 2
28
A Sermon before the Society
pean Tongues, barbarous in themſelves, and
independent of each other; but of great
Nations, fpeaking many of them Languages,
that have great Affinity, civilized by Arts,
familiarized to one another by Commerce,
and almoſt all under one Government ;
which, to paſs by other Difficulties, makes
the Converfion of the new World much har-
der than that of the old one.
But this, as I have faid, is not the firft and
principal Deſign of this Society; their Bufi-
neſs is to preſerve a Senſe of Virtue and Re-
ligion, and the Knowledge and Worſhip of
the true God among our own People; and
confiftently with this, in the next Place to
endeavour the Converfion of their Negroes,.
and then of ſuch Indians as they have Com-
merce with, and who lie neareſt to them.
But if we confine their Bufinefs within its
firſt and moſt proper Bounds, 'tis then diffi-
cult enough, a great deal more than they
ſeem to apprehend, who are most ready to
find Fault. Let them compare the Greatneſs
of the Work with the Means furniſhed for
carrying of it on, and they will fee, that
the ordinary Fund of the Society will fcarce
enable them to anfwer the many Demands
they have for Miffionaries in the poorer Set-
tlements; much lefs can they fend fo many
as a due Performance of the publick Service,
and the Inftruction of the People in Places.
of fo great Extent reafonably require; or
give
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 29
give them fuch Allowances, as fuch difficult,
fuch laborious, and oftentimes dangerous Ser-
vices well deferve. And ftill lefs able are they
to maintain Schools and Mafters fufficient for
the Education of their Children, and to fur-
niſh them with the proper Books; much leſs
can it be expected they ſhould provide a com-
petent Supply of Catechifts, tho' fo much
wanted for the Inftruction of the Children of
our own People, and abfolutely neceffary for
the Converfion of the Negroes. If the Con-
tributions to this Society were double and
treble to what they are, 'tis eafy to fee they
might all be very uſefully employ'd, tho' con-
fined only to the Weft-Indies. If therefore
fo much has not been done as could be
wifhed, 'tis not the Fault of the Society, but
for Want of a fufficient Fund for it.
But if theſe Things are ſo, if the Deſign of
this Society be fo excellent and uſeful in its
End, if this End be ſteadily purſued by the
moſt proper Methods in their Power, if no
Integrity or Zeal, no Care or Prudence has
been wanting in the Execution of it, if the
Moneys given for carrying on this Deſign have
been applied in the beſt, the faireft, the moſt
frugal Manner; if the End propofed can't be
otherwiſe purſued or attained than by the li-
beral Contributions of charitable and well-
difpofed Perfons; 'tis manifeft this Charity
has every Thing in it fuch Perfons can wifh
for, to recommend. it to their Favour and
Ene.
30
A Sermon before the Society
*
Encouragement.
But if neither the Good-
nefs of the Defign confider'd in itſelf, nor
the Fitneſs of the Means by which it is con-
ducted, nor the Impoffibility of its being
otherwiſe carried on, can prevail with Men
to contribute to it, let them in the laft Place
confider the Obligations they are under to
ſupport it, and the Intereft which themſelves.
and their Country have in it.
Can Men, who are in earneſt Chriſtians,
not think it their Duty to propagate the
Knowledge of Chriſtianity? Can Chriſtians,
I fay, think thus? For 'tis to them only I
ſpeak: We don't expect that Men who don't
believe the Gospel, or who live as if they did
not, fhould be zealous to promote the Know-
ledge of it; that they who would extinguiſh,
if they could, Chriftianity at Home, would
be forward to propagate the Knowledge and
Practice of it in foreign Parts: No, this
would be to expect, that Satan fhould be di-
vided against himself: All one could ask of
fuch Men, would be, not to obftruct what
they will not promote; but that is asking a
great deal too much; their Zeal for Infidelity
carries them great Lengths; they are not con-
tent to corrupt the Principles of the young
People of their own Country by writing and
difperfing lewd, prophane, blafphemous Books,
full of Infidelity and Atheiſm, and all Impi-
ety; they have, with great Induſtry and at
a confiderable Expence, endeavoured to pro-
pagate
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c.
3 L
pagate Infidelity into theſe very Countries, as
if it were to countermine the Meaſures ta-
ken by this Society for the Propagation of
Chriſtianity. To fuch therefore we do not
addrefs, but to the ferious and good Chri-
ftian, to thoſe who are fuch in Reality as well
as Name. He who truly believes in Chriſt
himſelf, who thinks it his greateſt Happineſs
that he was early call'd to the Knowledge of
the Goſpel, who has a juft Senſe of the De-
merit of Sin, and of the Diſpleaſure of God;
that the Wages of Sin is Death, and that Par-
don of Sin, and Salvation are attainable on-
ly thro' Faith in Chrift: A Man with theſe
Thoughts about him, muft needs be convin-
ced, that it is his Duty to promote, as he has
Opportunities, the Propagation of the Gof-
pel; his Love of God, and a true Zeal for
his Honour, his Faith and Hope in Chrift,
will make him in the Sincerity of his Heart
wifh, that his Ways may be known upon
Earth, aud his faving Health among all
Nations. But if this Love of God and Faith
in Chriſt will powerfully engage him on
this Side; fo likewife will his Humanity and
Benevolence, the Love of his own Species,
of Creatures made in all Things like himſelf,
in the Image of the fame God, and as Men
entituled to the fame Redemption by Chriſt,
upon performing the Conditions of it. Such.
a Man can't behold infinite Numbers of his Fel-
low-Creatures dead as it were while alive, and
buried.
32
A Sermon before the Society
f
buried in Ignorance and grofs Darkneſs, and
not be fenfibly touch'd at their great Un-
happineſs, Slaves to Sin and Satan, without
any Knowledge of God, or any Senſe of
Virtue.
But if Chriſtians, really fuch, could be in-
fenfible of their Obligations to this Duty,
('tis indeed impoffible they fhould, but if it
could be) can it be thought for the Intereſt
of a Chriſtian Country not to promote by
all proper Methods, the Knowledge of the
Goſpel in Colonies derived from them, and
preſerve them in the Obedience of the Faith
in Chrift? What can we think would be the
Confequence, fhould that Day ever come,
that thofe Countries fhould be totally over-
fpread with Infidelity and Irreligion, with Pa-
gan Ignorance, and a Want of all virtuous
and moral Principles? What Fidelity can Ma-
fters expect from fuch Servants, or Princes
from fuch Subjects? Will true Faith and O-
bedience to Man fubfift, when all Senfe of
God is loft? Monftrous Suppofition! The
only true Security Mafters and Princes can
have in Servants and Subjects, is a ftrong and
lively Senſe that they are under the Eye of
an all-feeing God, who will, if not in this
Life, yet moſt certainly at the Laft Day, ſe-
verely puniſh Falfhood and Disobedience.
And if this Senſe of an over-ruling Provi-
dence and a future Judgment be once extin-
guiſh'd, no Superiors can be fafe in the Pro-
mifes,
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c.
33
miſes or Oaths, or any other the moſt folemn
Engagements of thofe under them. So that
it is above all Things the Intereft of Princes,
and of all other Perfons vefted with any
Kind of Power and Authority, whether pub-
lick or domeſtick, to cultivate the Principles
of Religion in all who are in their Service,
and under their Government. 'Tis therefore
greatly the Concern of this Nation, and more
particularly of thoſe who have Poffeffions or
Commerce in thofe Countries, to preferve
and ſupport the Knowledge and Practice of
Religion in them. And if this was not ta-
ken due and proper Care of in the firſt Set-
tlement of theſe Colonies, there is the more
Reaſon for them to concur heartily in the Mea-
fures which have been fince entred into for this
good End. They ought not only willingly
and chearfully, but thankfully to contribute
towards it, fince fo neceffary an End, in
which their own private Interefts are fo great-
ly concerned, may now thro' the Care of
this Society be effectually provided for, upon
comparatively eafy Terms.
Nothing is truer than this, and yet there
is but too much Reaſon to fear, that ſome
who are moſt intereſted in this Affair, are leaft
fenfible of the great Importance of it, as if
they thought their Intereſt beſt ſerved by Pco-
ple moſt devoid of the Knowledge of God,
and of all Senfe of Religion: They don't in-
deed in direct Terms fay fo, but the Back-
E
wardness
· 34
A Sermon before the Society
wardneſs ſome have fhewn to promote this
good Work, and the Obftructions others have
given to it, too evidently prove, that what-
ever their Pretences be, this in Reality is the
true Reaſon, why they diſcourage the In-
ſtruction of theſe poor People in the Know-
ledge of Religion. But furely if Men would
thorougly confider Things, they could not be
in thefe Sentiments; but admit it were in
fome Reſpects more for their worldly Intereſt
to keep theſe People in Ignorance of eve-
ry Thing that leads towards God and Virtue ;
yet, if they had any true Senfe of Religion
themſelves, or any Concern for the Souls of
their Fellow-creatures, (for fuch they are,
how meanly foever they may think of them)
they could not be unwilling to procure to
them the infinite and unfpeakable Benefits Be-
lievers have in Chrift, at the Expence of fome
little Inconvenience to themſelves. But this
in Reality neither is, nor can be the Cafe;
all the Service a reaſonable Man, and one
who has any Humanity, can expect, may and
will be had from Servants under the Influ-
ence and Power of Religion; and what can't
be expected from fuch Servants, ſhould not
be exacted from any. But this Subject has
been fo well handled more than once in this
Place, that I ſhall not enlarge further on it.
The Intereft the Publick has in thefe Co-
lonies is of much greater Importance; it
concerns thoſe therefore who have the Inter-
eft
for Propagation of the Gospel, &c. 35
eft of their Country at Heart, to confider
well what will be the Confequence, with Re-
lation to the Publick, of a general Decay of
virtuous Principles, of the over-fpreading of
Infidelity,and of an univerfal Ignorance in Mat-
ters of Religion. Nothing can be more cer-
tain, than that there can be no Dependance
on the Fidelity of a People fo corrupted;
but if even ſuch a People could be depend-
ed on, if a People who have no Senfe of
God and Religion left, could be faithful to
their Mother-Country, what Affurance have
we, that if neglected by us, they ſhall not
be feduced to Popery, which it appears by
the Charter of this Society, was then appre-
hended would be one Confequence of our
Neglect of them. We all know the inde-
fatigable Induſtry and Zeal of Popery in
making Profelytes: We fee too much of this
here at home, to make any Doubt of their
Activity and Diligence, where they would
have, thro' our Negligence, fuch promiſing
Hopes of a plentiful Harveſt. And if thefe
People fhould be thus feduced, what may
-we not then apprehend would be the Confe-
quence? Would they not be tempted by the
moft delufive Arts to throw off their Depen-
dance on Great Britain, and either to fet up
for themſelves, or betray thofe Countries to
our Enemies? How ill we could bear the Lofs
of thoſe Countries, no body can want to
be told, who knows the Intereſt we have in
E 2
the
36
A Sermon before the Society.
the Preſervation of them; but if it would be
fo prejudicial to us not to have them with
us, what would it be to have them in an
Enemies Hand, and turned against us? It
would not perhaps be difficult to fhew, that
the Cultivation of Virtue and Religion in
theſe Colonies is, in our Situation, the fu-
reft as well as cheapeſt Way to preferve the
Intereſt we have in them. But however that
be, it muſt be allowed, that this is one great
Means, one very proper Way to fecure this
important Article; and that is enough not
only to make all Perfons who have a warm
Senſe of Religion upon their Minds them-
felves, but all others alfo without Exception,
who have a real Concern for the Intereſt of
their Country, Friends to this Society, and -
willing to fupport it by their Contributions,
that they may be able not only to carry on,
but to improve and extend the Defign they
are fo worthily engaged in.
But the beſt Motive to this Charity, is a
Zeal for the Honour of God, and of our
Saviour, and a Love and Concern for
our Fellow-creatures, in Things of the ut-
moft Importance to them, on which both
their preſent and future Happineſs, the moſt
folid Comfort under all Viciffitudes in this
Life, and the Eternal Salvation of their Souls
depends. This Motive, I can't but hope, will
have a due Influence on all ferious and, well-
diſpoſed Minds, and incline them ſtrongly to
give
for Progagation of the Gospel, &c.
37
give their Help towards the Maintenance of
Miffionaries, where they are fo much want-
ed; Since there is no other Name under Hea-
ven given among Men, whereby we must be
Saved, but the Name of the Lord Jefus
Chrift; neither is there Salvation in any
other. But how shall they call on him, of
whom they have not heard; and how shall
they hear without a Preacher; and how
Shall they preach, except they be fent? And
fent, we are fenfible, they can't be, but thro'
the Benevolence of thofe who fhall liberally
contribute towards it, fince no other Provi-
flon is made for it.
Confider of it, take Advice, and act like
Men, who have a Zeal for God, and are de-
firous to express the Sincerity of their Love
to him by a fincere Love of their Brethren,
who, however feparated and diftant in Place
from them, yet are by Nature and many
other Ties related to them. That this pious and
good-natured Zeal may be kindled in all our
Hearts, to the Glory of the Father, who would
have all Men to be faved, and of the Son,
who died for all Men, and commanded his
Goſpel to be preached to all Nations, God of
his infinite Mercy grant; to whom, with the
Son and Holy Spirit be all Honour, Glory,
and Power, now and ever.
FINI S
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
L
ΙΝ ΤΗ Ε
I
Pariſh-Church of St. Mary-le-Bow,
On FRIDAY, February 18, 1736.
BY.
NICOLAS Lord Biſhop of St. DAVIDS.
LONDON:
Printed for J. and J. PEMBERTON, at the Buck,
against St. Dunstan's Church, in Fleetſtreet.
MDCCXXXVII.
Bow-Veftry.
February 18, 1736. '
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the Society
for the Propagation of the Goſpel in
Foreign Parts.
મ
1
A Greed, That the Thanks of the
SOCIETY be given to the Right
Reverend the Lord Biſhop of St. David's,
for his Sermon Preached this Day before:
the SOCIETY, and that he be defired to
Print the fame.
•
<
David Humphreys, Secretary.
? ? !
}
-AULU
m
H
-----
ACTS XI. v. 18.
Then hath God also to the Gentiles
granted Repentance unto Life.
I
benefit of it to
words was this.
N the words of the text we find
a declaration and acknowledg-
ment made by ſome of the firſt
Converts from Judaiſm both of
the very beneficial nature of the
Goſpel, and alſo of the great
goodneſs of God in extending the
fo many. The occafion of the
We read at the cloſe of the fore-
going Chapter, that, upon St. Peter's preaching to
Cornelius and his Company, the Holy Ghost fell on
all them that heard the word, and that on the Gen-
tiles alfo was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghoſt.
v. 44. 45. Whereupon St. Peter baptizes them,
alledging, that no man ought to forbid water to
thoſe who had received the Holy Ghost. After this
no fooner was St. Peter come up to Jerufalem, but
thoſe of the Circumcifion, greatly offended with
A 2
what
4 A SERMON before the Society
་
1
what he had done, expoftulated with him there-
upon, and tax'd him, as guilty of an unlawful and
unjuftifiable practice, in going in to men uncircum-
cifed, and familiarly converfing with them. v. 2. 3.
In order to juſtify himſelf, the holy Apoſtle thought
it right to recite to them the whole hiſtory of the
Vifion, which he had had from heaven, upon this
very account; which concludes with theſe words,
What was I, that I could withstand God? as much
as to ſay, "God having fo plainly fhewn me,
"what his pleaſure was in this matter, I could do
no otherwiſe than I did. That which we look
upon as the folemn Seal of our miffion, and
"the great confirmation of our Apoſtleſhip, was
"the Deſcent of the Holy Ghoft; and that ha-
ving been allowed to the Gentiles, I muſt have
"been guilty of downright difobedience to God,
“if I had made a fcruple to receive them into
the Church, or had refus'd indifferently to
?
'
•
preach to, or converſe with them." Upon
which it is faid in the verfe of which the text is
part, that when they heard these things, they held
their peace and glorified God. This was fo ftrong an
Apology for himſelf, and fo fatisfactory an account
of what he had done, that they could murmur
at his conduct no longer, and immediately dropt
their objection againſt it: and not only ſo, but
they chang'd their accufation of the Apoſtle into
a juſt acknowledgment of the infinite mercy and
goodness
for the Propagation of the Gospel. 5
goodneſs of God; they found themſelves, as it
were, forc'd and conſtrain'd to give due Glory to
God, who had alfo to the Gentiles granted Repen-
tance unto Life.
From which words of the believing Jews, in
order to ſhow the great weight and moment of
the work which this Society is engag'd in, and the
great reaſon we have to proceed, with all zeal
and diligence, in it, I purpoſe at preſent to ſpeak to
theſe four things.
I. The Benefit or Bleffing here exprefs'd to be
beſtow'd, Repentance unto Life.
II. The Perfons it is beſtow'd upon, The Gen-
tiles.
III. The Agreeableneſs of this Method of pro-
ceeding with the nature and attributes of God,
and with the feveral declarations he has made
to this purpoſe by his Prophets. And
IV. The great reaſon, that perſons already ad-
mitted to the Bleffing of the Goſpel have to
uſe their hearty endeavours, that it may be
enjoyed by others as well as by themſelves.
I. I begin with the Bleffing or Benefit here ſaid
to be beſtow'd, Repentance unto Life. Repentance
is the infinite and ineftimable Gofpel Privilege,
that Remedy, which the grace and mercy of God
does, in and through Jefus Christ, allow to fin-
ful
6
A SERMON before the Society
ful men; and the happy Confequence of this be-
ing no less than Eternal Life, it is therefore ftiled,
Repentance unto Life. As to the import of the
word Repentance, the expreffion in the Greek plain-
ly fignifies, a change of mind; and the Scripture
fenſe of the word implies fomewhat more than
that, and takes in befides a thing, which natural-
ly follows it, or is caus'd by it, viz. an altera-
tion likewiſe of practice or behaviour, a chang-
ing or turning from one courſe or cuſtom of life
to another. And the Gentiles, to whom Repen-
tance is here ſaid to be granted, being accordingly
to caft off their former Converfation, as the Apoſtle
calls it, to exchange their numerous feigned Dei-
ties for one living and true God, to forfake all
their former Idolatrous and Prophane Rites, and
to embrace the fimplicity of the Gofpel, and to
yield a willing and an uniform obedience to its
precepts; the Bleffed Effect of their doing This
was to be no lefs than entitling them to Life:
and it is therefore call'd Repentance unto Life. By
Life here fome indeed underſtand that prefent
moft bleffed and defirable ftate and condition, in
which finners are placed by Repentance: whereas
before this they were in a ftate of wretched dark-
neſs and mifery, no better than fpiritually dead,
and although they breath'd and walk'd up and
down, and fhow'd by their feveral actions and
motions, that they had in them a principle of the
I
animal
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7
animal and fenfitive life, yet could they not ſtrict-
ly and properly be 'faid to live, as not living the
life of Thinking and Rational beings; nay, fo to-
tally were they immers'd in fin and error, that
their life was little better, if not much worſe, than
that of Brutes. But when God, by his Grace and
Bleffed Spirit, had once enlightened their dark minds,
and acquainted them with the true knowledge of
himſelf, and their duties to him, and had brought
them to a conſcientious fteddy practice of Religion ;
then, and not before, did their fouls and ſpirits be-
gin, as it were, to come to themſelves, to revive and
live, in the true and proper fenfe of doing fo, viz. by
enjoying ſuch a ſtate and condition of life, as is
moſt ſuitable and natural to Reaſonable Beings (fuch
as men are) and confequently moſt conducive to
their Preſent Happiness. And this is undoubtedly
a true and good notion of Repentance unto Life,
viz. That Repentance is that, which brings men to
live like themſelves, i. e. happily, and at eaſe, and
with comfort; which it was not poffible for them
to do, fo long as they continued in their former
courfe. For That was irregular, and diforderly,
and unnatural; and whatſoever is fo, is a certain
enemy to quiet, and utterly deftructive of true fa-
tisfaction. But ftill there can be no doubt but that
this phraſe has chiefly reference to that future moſt
Bleffed and Glorious State in the other world, to
which Repentance doth lead and conduct us, by
1
refcuing
8
A SERMON before the Society
refcuing and recovering us from the dominion of
fin and power of the Devil, by reſtoring us now
to the love and favour of God, and by preparing
us for Everlaſting Life and Happineſs with him in
Heaven, and helping us to the attainment of ſo
great a Bleffing. I fee no inconvenience in con-
fidering Life in this place in both acceptations, viz.
The Rational and Religious Life, which Repen-
tance brings men to here, and that Bleffed and Im-
mortal Life, to which upon their true Repentance
they are to be advanced hereafter. For they are of
very near affinity to each other. Life confider'd in
the former fenfe is the certain forerunner of Life
confider'd in the latter, and the latter is the un-
doubted effect of the former; and a greater Benefit
or Bleffing than both of them together cannot be
defir'd or imagin'd by men, viz. Than to live well,
that is, reaſonably and accountably, and like men,
in this world, and to be eternally happy in the
next. Which being fo, it much concerns us to
confider what I purpos'd to ſpeak to in the Second
place, and that was, the Perfons on whom this fo
Gracious a Gift is faid to be bestow'd. And happy
is it for us, happy for the whole race of mankind,
that God has dealt out fo great a Bleffing with ſo li-
beral an hand. For,
II. We find that this Favour was not confin'd,
as the Jews, upon the first promulgation of the
Goſpel,
for the Propogation of the Gofpel.
9
Goſpel, imagin'd it to be, to one people and na-
tion, fo that none befides themſelves were to be
partakers of it. It is acknowledg'd in the text by
that very people, who were fo remarkable for being
partial to themſelves, and who vainly fancy'd, that
God was fo too, that Repentance unto Life, the
Greateſt Bleffing, that Man had ever receiv'd from
God, was granted to the Gentiles, as well as to
themſelves. One of the main things, that made
them fo backward to believe this great truth, was
this, That, in times paſt, and until then, to the
Jews, and to them only, God had given the Right
Knowledge of himſelf, showing his word unto Ja-
cob, and his ſtatutes and ordinances unto Ifrael, lay-
ing before them fundry precepts about Religion,
acquainting them with the ways and means, where-
by they might ferve and worſhip him in an ac-
ceptable manner, dealing with them, as the Pfalmift
fpeaks, fo as he did not with any other nation, to
whom he gave not the like knowledge of his Laws.
But they are now convinced that Repentance unto
Life was also granted to the Gentiles. By the term
Gentiles the Jews underſtood all that were not of
their own People, and Country and Religion.
Heathens and Nations and Gentiles are Synonymous
Expreffions in Holy Scripture, as may be ſeen by
the following texts, 1 Sam. viii. 20. Pfal. xliv. 2.
and lxxix. 1. and by many other places. Theſe
were the people, whom the Jews, in compariſon
B
of
10
ASERMON before the Society
of themſelves, greatly ſcorn'd and contemn'd.
Stand by thy felf, come not near to me, for I am ho-
lier than thou, Ifa. lxv. 5. was the fcornful lan-
guage of the Yew to the poor neglected Gentile.
And this diſtinction between the Jews, and the o-
ther nations, or Gentiles, was alfo mightily kept
up even in the time of our Saviour; nay, perhaps
never was at a greater height than then. So little
aware were they, at the time of the appearance
of
the Son of God, of the gracious errand, upon
which he was fent, which was to break down the
partition wall, that was betwixt Jews and Gentiles,
and to make both one,and to put the latter into an e-
qual capacity with the former of obtaining the moft
defirable of all Bleffings, viz. The Favour of God
and everlaſting Happpineſs. And this he did by
his death, becoming, as the Scripture fpeaks of
him, a Ranfom for all. By the Blood of Chrift,
fays the Apoſtle, Eph. ii. 11, 12, 13. were thoſe
made nigh, who fometimes were far off, even thoſe
that in time paffed were Gentiles in the Fleſh, call'd
by way of contempt, the Uncircumcifion, that
were without Chrift, aliens from the commonwealth
of Ifrael, and ſtrangers from the covenants of promife,
having no hope, and without God in the world. And
agreeably to this diftinction is St. Paul alfo called
the Apostle of the Gentiles, intimating, that he was
to have little or no concern among the Jews, but
was to be fent abroad into the world, for the Con-
verfion
2
ད
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
II
}
verfion of the Heathen Nations, and enlightning
their dark minds with the bright beams of the Go-
fpel. So that the words of the text, if we take
them according to the common conftruction and
interpretation of words fpoken by Jews (and by
Jews, we are to obſerve and remember, they were
ſpoken) imply two things confiderable;
1. The great and univerſal Extent of the Blef
fing, and
2. The feeming unfitneſs and want of Qualifi-
cation of fome of the Perfons, to whom it was ex-
tended.
ft. I fay, here is implied the wide and univer-
fal extent of this Bleffing, which feem'd to the
Jews very ſtrange and wonderful. For they, as I
before obferved of them, thought, that God had
confin'd himſelf and his Bounty wholly and folely
to their Nation; and ſo they were fill'd with envy
and diſcontent at but the firft dawnings of Happi-
nefs and Proſperity upon any other People. That
the Gentiles fhould be put upon the fame level with
themſelves, in point of Salvation, and have as fair
and juſt hopes of it as they had, was a ſtep of the
Divine Providence, which furpriz'd them, and
which they could not eaſily perfwade themſelves to
believe. In fhort, That there ſhould be no goow-
λmlia, no refpect, or acceptance of perfons with
God, as they had all along vainly dreamt; That
the Jews fhould not continue to be, as they had
B 2
been
I 2 A SERMON before the Society
been in paſt ages, the only people in God's favour,
but That all other Nations fhould be gather'd unto
them (for with them the Gentiles are equivalent to
to all the people, befide themſelves, upon the face
of the earth) and, That they too ſhould be parta-
kers of this great Bleffing in the text; was ſuch a
thought, as fill'd them indeed with wonder and a-
mazement. And yet, as the * excellent Writer
De Vocatione Gentium has obferv'd, There was one
thing full as infcrutable as this, and that is, How
they themſelves, How the Jews, in particular,
came to be fo diftinguiſh'd from the reſt of the
world, as God's favourites; and this is what, it
does not appear, that they ever took it into their
hearts at all to wonder at. But then,
2dly. Here was likewife a great difficulty and
ftumbling-block in their way; and that was, That
the people, on whom this favour was conferr'd,
feem'd to them, on other accounts, fo utterly un-
qualified and unfit for it, befides their not being of
their ſtock and country. The Gentiles were per-
fons, that wholly ſet themſelves againſt God, and
were addicted to all manner of Idolatry and Impie-
ty; but, as for themſelves, they were an Holy and a
Peculiar People, feparated from the world, and
devoted to God, and choſen to be his inheritance:
which ſtuck ſo much in their minds, that ſome of
them, even after their Converfion to the Chriftian
Faith
* Lib. 1. cap. 21.
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
13
Faith and Religion, thought it requifité, amongſt
other their former Rites and Ufages, ftill to ob-
ferve their wonted diftance, and to abftain from
the converſation and communion of the Gentile
Profelytes, as looking upon them to be lefs
pure
and holy than themſelves, becauſe not originally
of their own fect and country. Nay, St. Peter
himſelf, till convinc'd by the fore-mentioned Mi-
racle, was of this mind. He was for keeping up.
the diſtinction of clean and unclean, till God him-
felf commanded him to the contrary, and ſhow'd
him, that he was refolv'd to bear an equal regard
and refpect to all, of what race or climate foever
they might be, that truly defir'd to fear him, and
to work righteousness, as it is in the 35th verſe of
the 10th chap. of the A&ts.
But ſtill, notwithſtanding all this, as unlikely
as this great Inſtance of God's Kindneſs to the Gen-
tiles might ſeem on fome accounts, yet were there,
all things duly confider'd, ftrong Reafons to induce
the Jews to believe what St. Peter had told them
concerning this matter; Reafons, I fay, making it
highly credible, that ſome time or other this great
Event would come to paſs. Which brings me to
my next general head, wherein I was to con-
fider
III. The Agreeableneſs of this Method of pro-
ceeding with the nature and attributes of God, and
with
14
A SERMON before the Society
with the ſeveral declarations he had made to this
purpoſe by his Prophets.
Now they had great reaſon to think it highly
probable, that even to the Gentiles God would
grant Repentance unto Life, from the three follow-
ing confiderations;
i. From the contemplation of the boundleſs
mercies and infinite goodneſs of God.
the
2. From the great and extraordinary need which
poor Gentiles had of this Bleffing. And
3. From the particular exprefs Promiſes God had
made to this purpoſe.
The time allow'd me will not permit me to
ſpeak but very briefly to theſe particulars.
1. I fay, The boundleſs mercies and infinite
goodneſs of God, if the Jews had attended to
that confideration, might have rendred it to them
highly probable, that God would allow to the Gen-
tiles alfo access to Eternal Salvation, or, in the
words of the text, Repentance unto Life. Thefe
attributes (though infeparable from the Idea of
God) the Jews moft plainly overlook'd and for-
got: or elfe, they would never have gone about
to confine God's Bleffings, and monopolize, and en-
groſs his Favours wholly to themſelves; but muſt
have argued, after this, or the like manner, with
themſelves. "God being, as the very natural no-
"tions
for the Propagation of the Gofpel. IS
"tions of him do imply, a God of infinite and
"unlimited Kindneſs and Goodneſs, furely he will
r
<c
cc
cc
not continue to ſhine upon us only, but will
"dart the rays of his Bounty over all the world,
" and enlighten the now dark and gloomy cor-
ners of the earth. He is not, as Efau ſuſpect-
"ed of his Father Ifaac, furnish'd only with one
Bleffing, but has an Unexhauſted Fountain and
"Treaſure of Bleffings, and will therefore un-
doubtedly vifit other nations in his good time,
"with the fame. For They likewiſe are the work
"of his hands as well as we; They too are of the
"fame make, and have enftamp'd upon them
"the like Divine and Heavenly Image with our
"felves; They are preſerv'd by the continual care
"of his Providence, and do already enjoy the
common Bleffings of this life, fuch as health,
"and ſtrength, and fun-ſhine, and rain. If there-
fore They are taken care of in theſe ſmaller
matters, and theſe leſs conſiderable reſpects, fure-
ly he will much rather, in his own time and
manner, provide for their more precious and va-
«luable Intereſts, that are of infinitely greater
moment and concern to them." But
cc
CC
"C
cc
2dly, The Jews might have argued the great
probability of this, from the extraordinary great
need the Gentiles had of the Bleffing here ſpoken of;
and that, whether they confider'd their Number,
or their Condition. As to their Number, they
were
16 A SERMON before the Society
were vaftly the greater part of the world, the in-
habitants of Judæa being very few and inconfide-
rable, in compariſon of thoſe of all the earth be-
fides; and yet That only, like Goſhen in Egypt, was
a land of Light, whilft other parts were over-
fpread with Darkneſs and Ignorance: and this fug-
geſts to us alſo the confideration of their Condi-
tion. They were, I fay, in a ſtate of great Dark-
neſs and grofs Error and Ignorance, and in Bon-
dage to the vileſt and moſt unnatural lufts, and all
manner of abominable impieties. And the more
fick, the more need had they of a Phyfician, ac-
cording to our Saviour's own doctrine. Such fin-
ners, as they, had the greateſt need of all to be
call'd upon to Repentance. Upon both thefe ac-
counts therefore we fee their circumftances were
moſt deplorable, and, confequently, fuch as call'd
fo much the louder to Heaven for mercy and pity.
Merit and Defert with God they could not in-
deed pretend to any; but ftill they were all of them
his creatures, his poor and helpleſs creatures, entire-
ly dependant on him, and utterly loft and funk,
as to all Human means of recovery, in fenfuality
and fin. Their neceffities were great, their indi-
gencies and wants were preffing and crying out
for help; and theſe were fuch things as could not
but plead ſtrongly for them, with a good and
merciful God, that they too might have a ſhare
effected by the Son
in the Bleffed Redemption
of
>
for the Propogation of the Gofpel. 17
of God, and that they too might be admitted to
the Privilege of having the Evangelical Doctrine
of Repentance unto Life preach'd to them in his
Name. And befides
3dly. This was not an Inftance of the Divine
Goodneſs barely to be hoped for from thoſe love-
ly attributes of God, his mercy and loving kind-
neſs, but it is what God had promiſed and fore-
told he would do. Now therefore that the ac-
compliſhment was begun, they could not but fee the
Prophecies relating to it, in a ſtronger and clearer
light; and the Apoftles, to affure the Jews of
God's favour to the Gentiles, on many occafions,
as they well might, refer them to them. It was
not only matter of fact, that God had call'd the
Gentiles, but it was certain alſo, that he had en-
gag'd and oblig'd himſelf, by many particular and
exprefs Promiſes, to call in all people and nations,
and to cauſe the great Benefit of the Meffiah,
when he was to come into the world, to be ex-
tended to all. It was the Word of God, and the
Revelation of his purpoſe, that was the great foun-
dation of mens hoping for a Meffiah at all; and
the fame Divine Word, that made men look for
this Bleffing, foretold alſo, that it ſhould be an Uni-
verfal one. In thy feed (faies God to Abraham,
Gen. xxii. 18.) fhall all the nations of the earth be
bleſſed. And Gen. xlix. 10. Unto him, Shiloh or the
Meffiah ſhall the gathering of the people be. We find
C
it
18
ASERMON before the Society
it faid in the 2d Pfalm (which is underſtood by
the learnedeft Jewish Writers to have reference to
the Meffiah) I will give thee the heathen for thine
inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for
thy poffeffion. Again faies Iſaiah (ch. ii. v. 2.) It
fball come to pass in the laſt daies (i. e. the daies of
the Meffiah) that the mountain of the Lord's houfe
fhall be establish'd in the top of the mountains, and
fhall be exalted above the hills, and all nations fhall
flow into it. And more ſtrongly yet faies the fame
Prophet in another place (ch. ix. v. 2.) The people
that walked in darkneſs, i. e. the whole Gentile
world, have feen a great light; they that dwelt in
the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the
light ſhined. In which laft place the Prophet, full
of the Certainty of the event, by a figure familiar
to the Sacred Oracles, fpeaks of future things in
the ſame manner, as if they were already accom-
pliſh'd, and actually paſt and over. And thus the
very thing which one Prophet ſpeaks of in the Fu-
ture tenſe, as, Iſaiah, ch. lii. v. 10. All the ends of the
earth fhall fee the falvation of our God, does ano-
ther Prophet, Pfalm xcviii. 3. exprefs yet in a
ſtronger way, in the Præterit, All the ends of the
earth have feen the falvation of our God. And, a-
greeably to theſe predictions of him, is our Saviour
call'd the defire of all nations. Hag. ii. 7. But I
need not mention any more Prophecies to this
pofe.
pur-
All
for the Propagation of the Gospel. 19
All that I fhall further obſerve about theſe Pro-
phecies, is, That there is hardly any one point,
concerning which the Prophets have been more
full in their predictions, than this of God's
Calling of the Gentiles: and not only fo, but
the learned Jews, as is well known, both the
ancient ones and the later of them, have under-
ſtood the Prophecies of the Old Teftament in
this ſenſe; and if the Jews of the prefent gene-
ration be in the fame way of thinking with Mai-
monides and the Talmudifts, they doubtless expect at
this day, that, when the Meffiah fhall come, the
Gentiles fhall learn from him the true Law, and be
brought by him to Repentance.
From what has been already faid it is fufficiently
plain, that God's granting to the Gentiles Repentance
unto Life (of which his giving them the Holy Ghoſt
was an undeniable argument) was not only a proceed-
ing, which, when revealed to men, muſt highly ap-
it felf to their Underſtandings, as every way
prove
worthy of a moſt kind and beneficent being, and in-
duce them to glorify God, (which was the effect we fee
it had upon the believing Jews in this Chapter) but
was likewiſe an Event, which the Scriptures had ex-
preffly foretold, and which the Truth and Faith-
fulneſs of God had engag'd him, in his own way
and manner, and in his own good time, to bring
about. And this leads me to the fourth and last thing
I was to ſpeak to in this difcourfe, and that was
IV. The
Ç 2
20
A SERMON before the Society
IV. The great Reaſon, that perfons, already ad-
mitted to the Bleffing of the Goſpel, have to uſe
their hearty endeavours, that it may be enjoyed
by others as well as by themſelves.
tions
If
And here if God had not expreffly fignified to
us his will in this cafe, as he has done in ſever al
places of Scripture, fuch as, Go and teach all Na-
and lo, I am with you alway, even unto
the end of the world; and again, Go ye into all the
world, and preach the Gospel to every creature;
we had not been afflur'd by St. Paul, 1. Tim. ii. 4.
That it is the will of God our Saviour, that all men
fhould be faved, and come unto the knowledge of the
truth; If Paul and Barnabas had not declar'd,
Acts xiii. 47. That the Lord had commanded them
to turn to the Gentiles, and to preach that word of
God to them, which the Jews, judging themſelves
unworthy of everlasting Life had put from them
which texts are all of them ſo many plain Indica-
tions, that Chriftians ought not to fit ftill, but ever
be forwarding the progrefs of the Gofpel, as they
have opportunity of fo doing: yet would Gra-
titude to our Lord and Saviour, and that Charity
to the Souls of men, which the Goſpel is ever fup-
pos'd to enkindle in us, ftrongly move us to this
work. In the first place, I fay, Gratitude to our
Lord and Saviour, who hath redeem'd us with his
moft precious blood, fhould make us not only
pray
;
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
21
pray conftantly, That the kingdoms of the world
may be the kingdoms of our Lord Chrift; and That
the kingdom of God may come; but ſhould carry us
yet farther, and make us, as, on the one fide,
highly pleas'd and delighted to fee it flouriſhing
and encreaſing, fo, on the other, uneafy and con-
cern'd, whenever we fee, either any of the Subjects
of Chrift's kingdom in danger of falling away from
him, or others, (who might, would we but take
the pains to gain them, become fubjects of his king-
dom) not fo much as knowing the Lord that bought
them, nor confequently capable of bringing their
thoughts and actions to the obedience of Chrift. And
in the next place, This is the greateſt Inftance of
Charity to man, that is poffible. For if the Goſpel
be the way to Eternal Life, the method of being
entitled to and obtaining the glorious Rewards in
heaven, which God has promis'd to Chriftians, as
it affuredly is, and as it appears plainly to be, from
the following and the like texts; God hath given
to us eternal Life, faies the Apoftle, 1. John, v. 11.
and that Life is in his Son ; again, This is Life eternal
that they know thee the only true God, and Jefus Chrift,
whom thou haft fent ; and again, This is the true God,
and eternal Life; If this, I fay, be not only infal-
libly true, but it be certain too, that there is no other
way than this to Eternal Life; If the fame Scrip-
tures that have told us, that he that hath the Son
bath Life, have alſo told us, that he that hath not the
Son
22
A SERMON before the Society
Son hath not Life. 1. John, v. 12. If, Affirmative-
ly, the Belief of the Gofpel be the way to Life,
and, Negatively, there be no other way befide it;
How great a Bleffing and Reward, How valuable a
Privilege and Advantage do we fuffer men to want,
by letting them continue in Unbelief? But to this
it may be faid, with regard to the Infidel part of
the world, Ignoti nulla cupido. As they have not
heard of the Joys of Heaven, fo it is not to be fup-
pos'd, that want of knowing the Goſpel can cauſe
in them any uneafineſs. And indeed one fort of un-
eaſineſs it does not cauſe in them, not an uneafi-
nefs like that of the impenitent Chriftian, who
can be no more ignorant of the greatneſs of that
happineſs to which he has forfeited his title, than
of the fevere doom, which all Chriftians know im-
penitent finners muſt expect. But then we are to
confider, that the Rewards of the Gospel are a
great Prize, and to miſs of that Prize is a great
lofs for any to ſuſtain, who might, if we fo pleas'd,
have had an opportunity of obtaining it. In the
mean time, their being at prefent fenfible, or not ſen-
fible, of their lofs, makes no manner of alteration,
as to the Truth and Reality of it. With regard to
perſons who are in a Lethargy, whilſt they lie un-
der the Power of their diftemper, and are ut-
terly infenfible of the badneſs of their own caſe, it
cannot, becauſe they are fo, be therefore faid of
them, that they are well. No. By-ftanders know
the
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
23
the contrary, and pity them, and if they have any
humanity, will endeavour to relieve them. Juſt
fo fhould Chriftians act with regard to the Gentile
world. We know, and are affur'd from Scripture,
(in particular, from the Epiftles of St. Paul) how
wretched a ſtate and condition the Heathen world
was in, at the time of the promulgation of the
Goſpel; a ſtate of darkneſs and ignorance; a ſtate
of fin and wickedness; and, confequently (which
is terrible to think of) a ſtate of Enmity with God;
a ftate of fubjection and flavery to their bittereſt
enemy, Satan, from whofe net or fnare they could
by no means extricate themſelves, but, as the Scrip-
ture ſpeaks, were taken captive by him at his will.
And what reaſon have we to think, that, at this
preſent time, it can fare better with any people,
who have not amongſt them the Gofpel of Christ,
to free them from thefe evils? Has not the com-
mon enemy of mankind, now as formerly, the
fame frailties and corruptions of fallen man to work
upon? Or has he, fince the miſchief he did to our
firſt parents, and, in them, to all of us, abated any
thing of his inveterate hatred to our race? Can we
imagine that he is lefs active now, than he was in for-
mer times, or that nature, unfupported by the helps
of the Goſpel, is abler now to defend herſelf a-
gainſt his wiles and ftratagems? This we cannot
think. Fact and experience fhow us the contra-
ry. Of this our Plantations and Colonies in Ame-
rica
2
24
A SERMON before the Society
rica have before their eyes a convincing argument;
and by ſeeing the Groffneſs and Ignorance, the Ido-
latry and Superſtition, the Savageneſs and Brutiſh-
neſs of their neighbours the Indians, muſt be tho-
roughly convinced, how very poor and wretched a
creature it is poffible for man, when left to him-
felf, to be. And much to be lamented would be
the fate of our Countrymen fettled near them, if
inſtead of being able to civilize and convert them,
and to bring them over to the obedience of Chrift (a
glorious defign, which it is to be hoped they will
never lofe fight of) they ſhould find themſelves, in
their new fituation, not fo much as able to keep
up among themſelves that fenfe of the Religion of
the Goſpel, which they brought with them from
their mother-country, and ſhould be themſelves in
the utmoſt danger of falling into downright Hea-
thenifin.
It was a truly Chriftian defire to prevent ſo great
and heavy a calamity from falling upon our own
people, that chiefly and principally engag'd The
Society for propagating the Gospel in Foreign Parts
to turn their thoughts to eſtabliſh a Chriftian Mi-
niftry amongst them, and to furnish them with all
thofe methods of inftruction, which we here at
home find to be fo neceffary amongst our felves.
This has made the members of this Society think
it worth their while, not only to contribute to-
wards the expence of it themſelves (which is the
cafe
for the Propogation of the Gospel. 25
cafe of every one of its members) but to put them-
felves into a way of being regularly and conftantly
inform'd, from time to time, of the ftate of Re-
ligion in our Colonies, and, upon the accounts they
receive from them, to caft about and project, how to
be moſt uſeful to them in their Spiritual Concerns,
and to take all poffible care, (in fuch of our Planta-
tions, where it is needful,) to preferve the Remains
of Religion from being loft; to keep the dying
coal, the dimly-burning flax, from being quench'd;
and to cauſe (as far as Human means can contri-
bute to it) the candle of the Lord, the glorious Light
of the Gospel, to ſhine out amongst them in its full
luftre. And it is to the end that this laudable
work may go on the better, that theſe Annual Ser-
mons are appointed, both to encourage thofe, who
are engag'd in it, to perfeverance and diligence,
and alfo to invite others, who have not yet join'd
us, to be afſiſting thereto.
Before this excellent defign was fet on foot, at
the fame time, that our Trade and Commerce was
encreafing, and we were pleafing our felves with
the many advantages daily accruing to this Ifland
from her Colonies and Plantations, and every thing
look'd well, and promis'd new additions of Wealth
and Power to our native country, it could not but
be a melancholy reflection for pious minds, that
Religion, very far from gaining ground propor-
tionably, and being in a flouriſhing ſtate, was eve-
D
ry
26
ASERMON before the Society
ry day declining and wearing away, in fome of
our new Colonies, to the reproach and diſhonour
both of the Chriftian and of the Proteftant name.
But, Bleſſed be God for it, by the unwearied efforts
of this Society, a better turn, and more for our Na-
tional honour and credit, has been given, fince the
Beginning of the prefent Century, to this Affair.
Confidering the great demand there has been for
Miniſters to officiate in holy things amongſt thoſe
of our planters, who were not in a condition of
maintaining or fupporting a Miniſtry themſelves,
the conſtant annual expence requir'd to carry on
the work without interruption, and how much
ſhort from the beginning our certain annual In-
come has been of our diſburſements, it may be mat-
ter of wonder, that, in paupertate noftra, in our po-
verty (to ſpeak with King David) fo many
and fo great difficulties have been fo happily fur-
mounted. But it was the cauſe of God, and of
Chriſt, and we have great reaſon to bleſs and praiſe
God for the fuccefs it hath met with. Our Mif-
fions, numerous as they are, continue, where wanted,
to be maintain'd; Noftop has been put to the good
work; and what by our ſettled yearly Income could
not poffibly be done, the kind friends to this de-
fign, fome known to us, and fome unknown, by
their Occafional Donations, have enabled us to do.
And, in this, the Society has found it to be Right
Advice, which King David gave to his Son Solomon,
when
for the Propagation of the Gofpel. 27
when he was putting him upon a noble and ex-
penfive work, defign'd, like this, for the Honour
and Glory of God; Arife, faies he, and be doing,
and the Lord will profper you. For thus it runs in
the Vulgate, 1 Chron. xxii. 16. Surge, et fac, et
erit Dominus tecum. And this in our cafe has been
found true, to the great fatisfaction of all who have
embark'd in this undertaking; and it muſt be with
no ordinary pleaſure, that they can reflect with
themſelves, that, by their means, Many Thoufands
of fouls are at this day fed and refreſh'd with the
Divine food of the word of Life, who must other-
wife, according to all Human appearance, have
labour'd at this time under that terrible kind of Fa-
mine, which the Prophet Amos deſcribes, Ch. viii.
ver. 11. 12. namely, the Famine of the Word.
"Thou
It is one of the miſeries of his People complain'd
of by the Pfalmift, Pf. lxxiv. 9. We fee not our figns,
there is no more any Prophet. Which words are thus
paraphras'd by a pious and learned Writer. “
"feemeft to have left us too; and we fee no token
"of thy Divine prefence with us: —— 'There is
"not fo much as a Prophet to be found, to give
us any advice, or ſpeak a word of comfort to
" us."
It was a ſenſe, like this, of the badneſs
of their own cafe, that, fince the inftitution of this
Society, has occafion'd our people from time to
time to petition us to fend them Miffionaries. Now
to be fenfible of their own Spiritual Wants, and to
defire
D 2
A
28
A SERMON before the Society
defire to be refreſh'd with the Divine food of the
word, is a mark of perſons, who verily and truly
hunger and thirst after righteousness, and of fuch
whom Chrift has pronounced Bleffed, and to whom
he has particularly promis'd, that they fhall be filled.
And if in the carrying on of this work, when our Sup-
plies have been at a low ebb, ftill new Contributors and
Benefactors have been found, into whoſe hearts God
has put it to be affiſting to us (of which this Socie-
ty has not wanted * Experience, and I hope in
God, it never will) this looks like fome degree of
accompliſhment of the gracious promife of our
Lord in that Beatitude, But ftill, in compariſon
of the greatneſs of the harveſt, we find, to our great
grief, that the Labourers we are enabled to ſend out,
are by far too few. More of them are needed, more
of them are daily petition'd for, and defir'd of us;
and it muſt be matter of forrow and concern to us,
piercing our very hearts, that to the requeſts of ſo
many pious and devout perfons all the return we
can make is only our warmeſt wiſhes, and our moſt
fervent praiers to God in their behalf. And when
under a ſenſe of their helpless and deplorable con-
dition, with regard to every thing, that is neceffary
to keep up and preſerve in them their Spiritual Life,
they lay their wants before us, and in the language
of
Amongst the Benefactions of the prefent Year [1756] is a Gift
to this Society of ONE THOUSAND POUNDS from a Perfon, who
defires to be unknown. See the Abstract of the Proceedings, &c.
annex'd to this Sermon.
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
29
of the Macedonian to St. Paul, in the Vifion, cry
aloud to us, Come and help us, What is the Boon
and Favour, that they aſk at our hands? Is it not
plainly This?" Give us the means of knowing the
“truth, and of working righteouſneſs. Give us
"what
you your felves enjoy and are happy in, the
opportunity of ferving God, in an acceptable
way, in publick, with one heart and one voice,
"the comfort of God's Ordinances, the advan-
cr
CC
cc
<<
cr
tage of his Word, the benefit of his Sacraments.
"Let not the Light of the Goſpel, which fhines
out, with fo much brightneſs, on your felves at
home, be hid under a bufhel with respect to
your Fellow-fubjects,otherwiſe ſufficiently unhap-
py, in being divided by the vaſt Ocean from you.
Can the Lamp continue to burn, whoſe oil fail-
"eth? Can the Natural Body continue any longer
"its vital functions, when fupplied no more with
"nouriſhment? Can the Plant flouriſh, or even fo
"much as live, without any kindly air to cheriſh
it, without any moiſture to recruit its waſting
juices? Then may Religion ſubſiſt and flouriſh in
"a country, where fuch helps, as we defire of you,
are wanting."
(c
"C
(c
A requeſt like this, were it to come from ftran-
gers and aliens, would furely highly deſerve to be
attended to. But the perfons, by whom we are pe-
tition'd to this effect, have ſtill a ftronger claim to
all the good offices we can do them. They are not
2
only
30
A SERMON before the Society
only our Fellow-fubjects, not only live under the
protection of the fame Government and Laws, but
by their toil and labour are daily contributing to the
wealth and ſtrength of their Mother-country. Now
from what quarter under heaven could they ſo rea-
fonably expect a fupply of their Spiritual Wants as
from our felves?
Our Saviour encourag'd his Diſciples to go and
preach the Goſpel to the Samaritans, by telling them,
that there was in that people a good diſpoſition to re-
ceive them. The Fields, he told them, were white al-
ready to harvest. The like encouragement have we
at this day to fend Labourers, in the Spiritual Har-
veſt, to our Plantations and Colonies.
In this part of our work we have no prejudices in
favour of another Religion to ſtruggle with, nor a-
ny thing like that prodigious averfion, which the
wild and unciviliz'd Indians are known to have to
every the leaſt ſtep, that is made by others towards
reforming and converting them. *It has been ob-
ſerv'd of ſome of them in the Eastern parts of the
world,that they were fo horridly addicted to vice, and
had fuch a rooted hatred to every thing that is good,
that they would not fo much as endure thoſe who
did but offer to reprove them for their crimes, or did
but endeavour to bring them to Morality and Vir-
tue; nay, a that, when they were exhorted to turn
Chriftians,
ว
Jarrici Hiftoria Indica Thefaurus. L. 1. c. 4.
Quin et fanguinem educi venis, et animam corpore exprimi cre-
dunt, ubi de Fide ſuſcipiendâ admonentur. Idem ibid. Multum heber
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
3 I
Chriftians, they thought, that even their blood was
letting out of their veins, and that their Inſtructors
were forcing their very fouls out of their bodies.
Now all favage and unciviliz'd people are but too
like one another upon every part of the Globe. Too
much of this is what has been experienc'd in thoſe
Indians in particular, that border on our Settlements
in America. But this has not hinder'd this Society
from trying from time to time, what could be done
towards their Converfion, and that of whole Na-
tions of them, as well as of particular perfons. It is
well known, that whenever there has been but the
leaft profpect of a National Converfion, whenever
any thing has but promis'd well and look'd a little
hopefully, they have thought it right to beſtir them-
felves. Miffionaries, extraordinary, and on purpoſe,
have been fent to them, to favour, as much as poffi-
ble, the very firſt appearances of a good difpofition
amongst them. The Scriptures have been put into
their language. Schools have been open'd, and their
children have been invited and actually taught to
read them. And repeated attempts have been made
to win over the grown up perfons amongſt them to
the faith of Chriſt. But after all the pains that have
been taken with them, and the uſe of the kindeſt
methods of treating them, that were poffible, we
cannot fay of the Indians we have been concern'd
with,
tes funt borum locorum Indi, et immanibus infetti fceleribus, quibus fit,
ut grave fit de baptifmate fufcipiendo à nobis audire. Francifcus Xa-
vier, in epiftolâ ad Præpofitum Generalem, anno 1549.
32
A SERMON before the Society
a
with, as Acofta does of others of them (the Peruvians
he means and the Mexicans, for there is a great deal of
difference, he obferves, in Barbarians,Barbarus Bar-
baro longè præftat) that we have found them “ **
"mild and complying people, and eaſy to be taught."
Thoſe whom he thus characteriſes, tho' they did not
qui e and in all refpects come up to Nations who
were perfectly civiliz'd, yet as they had amongſt
them fome notions of Laws and Government, did
not differ ſo very widely from them; and, as fuch,
could more eaſily be fway'd by reaſons, and con-
vinc'd by arguments, and fo were more fufceptible
of Goſpel Truths. Whereas it is quite another cafe,
when thoſe, whom we would convert, are ſo very
backward in knowledge, as to need to have put in-
to them the very firft rudiments of Reafon and of
the Religion of nature, and have little elfe befides.
the Human Shape to diſtinguiſh them as Men. A
great obſtacle this is in our way, and if we would
fucceed, there is an abfolute neceffity of removing
it. The Chriftian life, is the life of man in its ut-
moſt perfection, and in order to bring thoſe up to
fo high a pitch, who are ſo much below the ordina-
ry ſtandard, if we would begin at the right end,
it muſt be our firft buſineſs to endeavour to ci-
vilize them, and to make them Men before we
make them Chriftians. And to do this muſt be a
work
* Acofla De procurandâ Indorum falute, in Proœmio.
**The fame, in his Book De Naturâ novi Orbis, in his Dedication
to Philip II. King of Spain.
for the Propagation of the Gospel. 33
work of much time and pains; and if in any good
work there be need of patience and perfeverance,
there is need of it in this. However we very well
know, that Chriftians of another perfwafion have
not been diſcouraged from attempting this good
work, hard and difficult as it is. * One of their
late Writers has obferv'd, that there is no kingdom
of the world fo remote, no nation fo barbarous,
where ſome of their people have not preach'd, and
publish'd the glad tidings of the Gofpel. It muſt
be own'd too, that they have not been altogether
unſucceſsful herein. And it was remark'd to our
diſadvantage by ** another of their Authors, who
wrote above an hundred years ago, that thoſe of
the Reformation, our own Countrymen in parti-
lar, did not exert their zeal in that way. Now
furely great reafon have we of this Reformed
Church to be at least as much concern'd for the
ſpreading of pure and unmixt Chriftianity, as we
find others to be for the fpreading of Popery. Let
it not be faid, that ſome men take more pains to
ply the Heathen world with their Legends and Fa-
bles, and to follow them up therewith, than we
do to put into their hands fo good a Book, as the
Bible; the Bible, I fay, which is a Book they are
plainly jealous of, and which they do not care for
trufting them with: and therefore, tho' we have
E
*Hiftoire Univerfelle des Voyages, faits par mer et par terre.
Du Perier.
** Jarrici Hift. Ind. Thef. L. z. c. 30.
the
34
ASERMON before the Society
the Hiſtory of Chrift writ by four infpir'd Evan-
geliſts, yet nothing would ferve the turn of * one
of their great Miffionaries, who went into the
Eaftern parts of the world, but penning a new,
Goſpel for them, which might fupport the errors
and corruptions of that church; that fo, with their
new Converts, the Belief of the Gospel it felf,
and the Belief of their grofs Interpolations of it,
might ſtand and fall together.
We cannot think, that God has brought us to
our new Settlements in the neighbourhood of the
Indians, barely to make us fpectators of their de-
plorable condition. The good Samaritan in the
Goſpel, whom we are commanded to imitate, did
a great deal more to the traveller in diftrefs, to
whom the Providence of God had led and con-
ducted him. Nor has God put the poor Negroes
into our power for no other end but that we might
uſe them as ill, as Pharaoh did the Children of
Ifrael, when under a pretence that he might be
better ſerved by them himſelf, he would not fuffer
them to ſerve at all the Lord of Heaven and Earth,
who made both him and them. But the cauſe of
the Negroes has been fo well pleaded by others, who
have ſpoken before me on this occafion, that I do
not think myſelf capable of adding any thing on
that head,
And
*The perfon bere meant is Hieronymus Xavier, Homo non è tri-
vio, fed Mogorenfi Milioni præfectus; as Ludovicus de Dieu has ob-
ferv'd concerning him. One, who was contemporary with Xavier,
gives us this account of him; Miffioni Mogorenfi jam multos annos
praeft. Nicolaus Trigautius, De Chriſtianâ expeditione apud Sinas `
jufcepta. L. V. c. 11.
for the Propagation of the Gofpel. 35
And now may God put it into the hearts of all
the perfons, whom we employ in this good work
of ſpreading the Goſpel of Chrift, our Miffiona-'
ries, our Catechiſts, and our Schoolmaſters, duly
to confider with themſelves, how great and mo-
mentous an affair they are fent upon, namely, to
bring all that poffibly they can, to Repentance un-
to Life; and how much it concerns them, that the
good caufe of the Goſpel do not fuffer through any.
want of care, or zeal, or difcretion, in thofe who
are to manage it. It is a faying of a famous
* Spaniſh Miffionary, who had ſpent in the Indies,
in that work, no less than feventeen years of his
life; "Give me, faies he, but Apoftolical Men a-
"mongſt the Indians, and I will anſwer for it, that
CC
amongſt the Indians, Apoftolical Succeſs ſhall not
"be wanting."
And to make the labours of thoſe whom we
fend abroad ſtill more effectual in gaining over fouls
to Chrift, may not only they themſelves, but all the
people in our Settlements, ſeriouſly and often think
with themſelves, how greatly they may forward
this good work by being more eſpecially careful to
fhow to the Pagan world (as, by their fituation,
and nearness to them, they have opportunity of do-
ing) the Amiableness of Chriftianity in the lives of
its profeffors. And till it fhall pleafe God, once a-
gain, to blefs the preachers of his word with the
E 2
Jofephus Acofta, De procur. Ind. falute. L. 1. c. 18.
Gift
36
ASERMON before the Society, &c.
Gift of Miracles, may the fight of the remarkable
fobriety and temperance, of the fingular juſtice and
equity, of the fweet meeknefs and gentleneſs, of
the admirable kindneſs and charity of Chriftians,
even raviſh the hearts of the beholders, and feize
their affections, and operate as ftrongly upon their
minds, as the Gift of Miracles it felf could do.
And by fuch Violence as this, added to our in-
ſtructions and perfwafions (but by no other) may we
compell them to come in.
}
THE EN D.
+
AN
£
}
ACH
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SoCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
2
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
< ,
IN THE
J
Pariſh-Church of St. MARY-LE-BOW,
On FRIDAY, February 17, 1737-8.
BY.
THOMAS Lord Biſhop of BANGOR.
LONDON:
Printed for J. and J. PEMBERTON, at the Buck,
againſt St. Dunstan's Church, in Fleetftreet.
MDCCXXXVIII.
$
4.
+
។
+
Bow-Veftry,
February 17, 1737-8.
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the Society
for the Propagation of the Goſpel in
Foreign Parts.
1
Greed, That the Thanks of the
A SOCIETY be given to the Right
Reverend the Lord Biſhop of Bangor,
for his Sermon Preached this Day before
the SOCIETY, and that he be defired
to Print the fame.
David Humphreys, Secretary.
+
}
*
MATTHEW Chap. XI. Verſe 5.
And the Poor have the Gospel preached
unto them.
T. John is repreſented in the Gof-
pel, as the Meffenger and Fore-
runner of our Bleffed Saviour, fent
to give notice to the Jews, and
prepare them for the Reception of
that extraordinary Perfon, who had for a long
Time been expected, and at that particular Time
was fo, with more than ordinary Attention, un-
der the Character of the Meffiah.
St. John was a Man of great Auſterity of
Life, and the Purport of his Doctrine was Re-
pentance; the neceffity of which, he inculcated
from the Argument of the near approaching of
Chrift's Kingdom, whofe Foundation was to be
laid in Holiness and Integrity of Life. By the
freedom of his rebukes at the Court and upon
the Perfon of Herod, he had drawn upon himſelf
A 2
the
'
4
A SERMON before the Society
the Diſpleaſure of that wicked Prince, who, at
the Sollicitation of a lewd Adulterefs, threw him
into Priſon, where, in a little time, he put an
end to his Life. Before his Death, the Report of
the Doctrine and Miracles of Jefus had reached
him; and therefore, from the Priſon where he
was, he ſent two of his Difciples to enquire
from the Mouth of Our Lord himſelf, more for
their Inftruction than his own, whether, "He
“ was the Perfon that was to come, or whether
"they were to look for another". - The Perfon
that was to come, i. e. the Meffiah, the Defire and
Expectation of the Nations, peculiarly, and as it
were proverbially, diftinguiſhed under that Title.
This was the Queftion, the Anſwer to which
was given, not in a direct and pofitive manner, but,
as the Importance of it required, in ſuch a large
and inftructive way, as fhould preclude all man-
ner of doubt about the Truth of it ;-- reprefenting
in as few Words as might be, the Character of
our bleffed Saviour, and intimating its perfect
Correſpondency with what the Prophets had fore-
told concerning him; fo that at the fame Time
that he afferted, he thought fit to prove the Di-
vinity of his Miffion: For Jefus anſwered and
faid unto them, "Go and fhew John thofe
"Things, which ye do hear and fee, the Blind
"receive their fight, the Lame walk, the
"Lepers are cleanfed, and the Deaf hear, the
"Dead
ג
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
5
"Dead are raiſed up, and the Poor have the
"Goſpel preached unto them". As if it had
been faid; you want to be affured of the Truth
and Certainty of my being the Meffiah; - I am
that extraordinary Perfon, and ye yourſelves
may obſerve, if you pleaſe, from what ye hear
me preach, and ſee me do, that I give moſt plain
and irrefragable Proofs of my Miffion: My
Doctrine and my Works befpeak my Character,
one very diftinguishing mark of which is, “That
"the Poor have the Goſpel preached unto them.
This is the Connection of the Text, of which I
have taken upon me at prefent to confider the
Significancy and import: For this muſt be looked
upon, as one very remarkable Characteriſtick of
the Goodneſs of our bleffed Saviour, and the Ex-
cellency of his Religion, That it is calculated
for the common Ufe and Benefit of the World;
like the Light of the Sun, diffuſed with univerſal
Equity and Munificence, and, though made up
of the moſt precious and valuable Truths, yet
all communicated with free Grace and Bounty;
not perplexed, as the greateſt part of the Law of
Mofes was, by a vain and haughty Cafuiftry;
not confined within the Studies of Philofophers,
or locked up in the Cabinets of Princes; but dif-
perfed abroad for the common Inſtruction, and,
if they will follow it honeftly, for the common
Happineſs of the Poor and the Rich, of the
Ignorant
6
A SERMON before the Society
!
—
Ignorant and of the Learned, "The Poor have
"the Gospel preached unto them." Such is the
Excellency of the Chriftian Doctrine, and fuch
the Condefcenfion and Integrity of its Teacher,
that his Religion is accommodated to the Ufe and
Underſtanding of the poorest People Perfons of
that low and defpifed Character, that they had
hitherto by the Jewish Teachers, the perfidious
Guardians of the Laws of Mofes, and in almoft
all the Inftructions of the Philofophers, been
thought either unworthy or incapable of good
Information: For, except in fome few Inftances,
where there was a more than ordinary natural
Strength of Underſtanding, the Grofs of the com-
mon People were kept in almoſt impenetrable
darkneſs, as to the great Truths of Religion;
knew nothing at all of the Nature and Being of
God, and as little confequently of the true Prin-
ciples and Obligations of Moral Vertue: Not
that the World was altogether without Light in
thoſe momentous Points, or that the Minds of
Men were rendered incapable of comprehending
them; but Superftition and Idolatry, the Parents
of bad Morals, were the reigning Corruptions;
and they who faw through the Folly and Wick-
edneſs of thoſe Practices, either through Pride
and Intereft would not, or through Fear and
Weaknefs of Mind dared not communicate their
Knowledge. It appears to be the Defign of
God
for the Propagation o fthe Gospel.
7
God therefore, in his own time, by the Sending
of his Son, and the Difpenfation of his Gofpel,
to break thro' theſe Corruptions, to inform and
raiſe Human Nature, to affift, and as it were,
rekindle the Light of Reafon, to clear up, and
defend and propagate true Religion all over the
World; and that not for the Inftruction of the
wife and great Men in it (who were in Poffeffi-
on, it may be, already of very important Truths,
but either made no afe of them, or, but a vain
one, while their Practices contradicted them); as
of the Poor and Low and Humble, whoſe na
tural Capacities were as good, and whofe Hearts,
at léaft, as honeft, as of the higheft and moſt learn
ed: The Poor had the Golpel preached unto
them; There was nothing in that Syftem of Re-
ligion, that was crafty and felf-intereſted, was
dark and abftrufe, that was, in the main De-
fign of it, too' refin'd for common Underftand-
ing; but, as it confifted of honeft, and clear, and
vational, and practicable Precepts, it was com-
municated freely to thoſe, for whom it was dé-
fign'd, and that was the whole World. - The
Wiſdom of its Inftructions was fo plain and ftròng
and convincing, that they were neither below the
Care of the wiſeſt Men, nor above the Ufe and
Comprehenfion of the meaneft: The Poor, &c.
}
I propofe, in confidering farther this one pe
culiar Advantage of the Goſpel (no Religion be-
fore
8
A SERMON before the Society
fore it having made that Proviſion for fuch ge-
neral Inftruction), to difpofe my Thoughts under
theſe three Heads which follow.
<
I. To confider, what it was that was preach-
ed to the Poor under the Character of the Gof-
pel. For it is mentioned here as a very extraòr-
dinary Priviledge, and what deſerved to ftand
in the Rank with the moſt miraculous Acts, of
our Saviour's Goodness to Mankind, fuch as
giving Limbs to the Lame, Hearing to the Deaf,
Sight to the Blind, and Life to the Dead. ':
II. Where lay the particular Reaſon and Ad-
vantage of the Goſpel being preached to the Poor.
III Reflect with what Advantages in ge-
neral, in point of Inftruction and the Enforce-
ment of true Religion, this admirable Difpenfati
on was communicated.
THESE Confiderations diſpatch'd, there will
be room perhaps for one or two uſeful Inferences,
not unſuitable, I will hope, to the Occafion of
our preſent Affembling.
J
And, First, I am to confider, what it was, that
was preached to the Poor, under the, Character.
of the Goſpel; and that, if we peruſe the ſacred
Records, beyond all Controverfy our beft Di-
rection, will be found to confift, in the main, in
theſe great Points, which follow: The Know-
ledge
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
ledge and Worſhip of the true God,
The Di-
vinity of our Saviour's Miffion, -a clear and cer-
tain and confiftent Scheme of Moral Duty, not
itſelf newly diſcover'd, but vindicated from Er-
ror and Corruption, and falfe Cafuiftry; repré-
fented in its pure Agreements with the Dictates
of Natural Reaſon, and further recommended and
enforc'd by new Arguments and Motives; and,
as an Addition to all this, the great Doctrine of
Mercy and Forgiveneſs of our Sins, thro' the
Mediation and Redemption of Chrift Jefus.
2
The Knowledge and Worſhip of the true God
was the firft point of Inftruction, and the Foun-
dation of the Chriftian Doctrine: For they were
not only the ignorant and ftupid Vulgar, who
had given into the Practices of Idolatry, but the
Corruption reach'd a great deal farther and high-
er; as the Apoftle intimates in his Epiftle to the
Romans, That the Profeffors of Wifdom were
Fools in that refpect, and had "chang'd the
"Glory of the incorruptible God into an Image
"made with Hands, like to corruptible Man,
સ worlhipping the Creature more than the Cre-
ator: And the fame Apoftle, obferving,
when he was at Athens, the politeft City of the
Heathen World, that all their Religious Duties
were degenerated into the fouleft Idolatry; be-
gins his Inftructions to them, with Declarations
(
وو
B
of
>
ΙΟ
A SERMON before the Society
of the true God, that made the World, and all
things in it.
And this is the plain Doctrine of the Goſpel
upon this important Head That there is but
One God; That he is Good, All-powerful, All-
wife, the Maker and Governour of the World,
of a pure and fpiritual and invifible Nature,
whoſe Worſhip confifts in Prayers to and Praiſes
of him, and in a fincere Love of and Obedience
to his Commands, and, fo far as our Natures will
admit, an Imitation of his high Perfections.
The Divinity of our Saviour's Miffion is ano-
ther great Point in Chriſtianity, and it ftands
prov'd in the Gofpel, from the Correfpondency
of his Character, and the Time of his Appear-
ance to what the Prophets had foretold concern-
ing him; from the Purity and Goodneſs of his
Doctrine; from his Miraculous Actions (the
plain Effects of Mercy and Power in conjunc-
tion;) from his Birth, his Life, his Death,
his Reſurrection and Afcenfion; all together a-
mounting to the cleareft Demonftration, That he
was the Meffiah, the long-expected Prophet, the
great High Prieft, the King of Ifrael, the Sa-
viour of Mankind, the beloved Son of God fent
from the Bofom of his Father.
We are further inftructed in the Goſpel in a
very plain and rational Scheme of Moral Duty,
ſuited to every Man's Underſtanding, and to all
the
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
II
!
•
the feveral occafions of human Life, and recom→
mended to us, in many ftrong and amiable
Pictures, as the moſt beautiful ſcheme of Action,
moft wife and reaſonable, and, what is beyond
every other Argument, as agreeable to the Will
and Commands of our great Creator. A
ſcheme of Morals, not made up of many new
Diſcoveries; though it may perhaps be juftly
called a new Diſcovery, that true Religion did
indeed confiſt in the practice of Moral Vertues :
But admitting that the Goſpel Inftructions on
that head were not new, but the dictates of na-
tural Reaſon, it was a great Thing for the
World, that fuch Religion was taught and made
plain univerfally:-That the Labour of Enquiry
was prevented, and every Man had his Duty
laid before him in a fhort and intelligible manner,
and the Practice of it enjoined by the Authority
of God.
It was not the Defign of Chriftianity certainly,
to make a new Creation in a literal Senfe, but to
reftore Men to that rectitude of Mind and Man-
ners, which was the purpoſe of the Old one;
for Men are naturally formed for the Practice
of Virtue, and, without it, cannot poffibly be
happy: The Gofpel therefore does not alter the
Nature of Vertue, but eſtabliſh its Practice, by
affuring us that God is pleas'd with it; and will,
by the ſecret workings of his Spirit, affift good
B 2
Men
I 2
A SERMON before the Society
Men in the Performance, and has made fuch
Provifion for the Reward of it in another World,,
that it is become, not only our reafonable Duty,
but under all Circumftances, even of the greateſt
diſtreſs, moſt eligible and advantageo us to us.
It was before a matter of much difficulty to
underſtand what was properly Religion; fo ob
fcur'd and blended it was with the corrupt Addi-
tions of Men: Our Saviour purified it, taught
Men what it was, and how to value it; and, to
guard againſt the bad Practices of defigning or fü
perftitious Men, added but two pofitive Dutles
and thofe of very plain and eafy Significancy,
and, in their Deſign and Opération, perfective of
the Chriftian Life.
T
Add to all this, that other great Doctrine of
the Göfpel, upon which all our Expectations of
future Happineſs feem to turn, and that is,
Mercy and Placability of the Deity, who, tho'
he is of purer eyes than to behold Thiquity, has
yet affured us, that if we endeavour faithfully
and fincerely to do his Will, and, thro' human
Frailty, fail in the Performance; thro' the Me-
diation and Redemption of Chrift Jefus, he will
confider and compaſſionate, and forgive our Mir
carriages. And this muft be look'd upon, as a
very extraordinary Act of Grace and Bounty to
his Creatures, That God, in the Perfon and by
the Doctrine of our Saviour, Thould find out a
་:
ci
way
for the Propagation of the Gospel
13
way tó lave us from the Dominion, and, if we
are not wanting to ourſelves, from the Guilt and
Punishment of Sin. It is this peculiar Privilege
perhaps, which is the principal Reaſon, why the
Gofpel is defcrib'd in very high and 'triumph-
ing Expreffions, "Glad Tidings of Salvation,
"Joy to all People, Peace on Earth, and Good-
"Will towards Men ; " and why the Great
Author of it is til'd the Mediátor, the Re-
deemer, and the Saviour of the World. And
thus much for the Substance of the Gofpel Doc-
trine; It corififts in the Knowledge and Worfhip
of the true God, in eſtabliſhing 'the Divine
Miffion of our Saviour, in giving a plain and
clear Rule of Duty, enforc'd in its Practice by
new and better Encouragements than Men were
before acquainted With, or "convinced of; in
the Addition of two moſt wife and fignificant In-
Ititutions, the Badges of our Profeſſion, very
natural 'Memorials of our Obligations to our
great Mafter, and powerful Motives to´ Obedi-
ence; and in the Affurance of having our Sins
pardon'd by the Mercy and Interceffion of our
Redeemer.
<
'
1
1
'I proceed to confider,
}
ddly, What peculiar Reafon and Advantage
there was in it, That the Poor fhould have the
Gofpel preach'd unto them: For, as it was a
Difpenfation defign'd for the whole World, and
God
14
A SERMON before the Society
God is no refpecter of Perfons, why, in commu-
nicating fo confiderable a Benefit, is any Diftinc-
tion made between the Poor and the Rich? To
this it may be anfwer'd, That, confidering the
State of the World in our Saviour's Time, The
Poor ſtood moſt in need of the Goſpel, and were
moft difpofed to embrace it.
First, The Poor ftood moft in need of the
Goſpel, I mean in point of Information, for,
with regard to Life and Manners, it is another
Queſtion. But, in point of Knowledge, it is
probable, it is indeed certain, That what Light
there was in the World, fhone chiefly upon the
higher Parts of it, while with respect to the
lower, the People fat in Darkneſs, and their
Knowledge was as mean as their Condition.
The Jewish Doctors, the unworthy Repreſen-
tatives of Mofes, had concealed or eluded the beſt
Part of his Religion, and, in our Saviour's time,
had dreſs'd it up in fo ridiculous a Garb, and fo
little confulted the Honour of the Deity, the
Credit of their Legiſlator, and the Good of Man-
kind by their Interpretations of it, that they
drew upon themſelves the fevereft Rebukes from
that Divine Teacher: He often calls upon them,
and always for their Faults; For indeed the Re-
ligion, which they taught, was fuch, that a wife
Man could not but contemn it: It was hardly
poffible
1
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
poffible, but that the Meaneſt muſt be led to en-
tertain very low and unbecoming Thoughts of
God himſelf, whom they repreſented as its Author.
And then for the Philofophers, the Repofito-
ries and Maſters of Knowledge in other Parts of
the World, their Converfation, if they liv'd at
all in Society, lay chiefly at the Courts, or in
the Company of the Great Men, and they were
commonly too proud to inftruct the Vulgar; —
neither indeed, confidering the Power of Super-
ſtition, was it ſafe for them to do ſo, unleſs they
had had Honefty enough, which very few of
them had, to venture their Lives for the fake
of Truth: This couragious Integrity was not in-
deed to be expected from Men, who confidered
Truth, when they hit upon it, rather as Matter
of Amuſement to a fpeculative Mind, than as the
Foundation of vertuous Practice. Befides, they
themſelves were many of them in the dark, and
had fo puzzled and perplex'd the cleareſt Truths,
that Men in low ftations of Life and common
Capacities wanted both the Underſtanding and
the Leiſure to attend their Lectures.
It appears by their Writings, that there was
indeed a great deal of fine Senſe and admirable
Inſtruction among the Heathen Philoſophers; but
ftill it appears too in the Hiftory of their feve-
ral Nations, that the Grofs of the common Peo-
ple were not at all the better for them. They
were
76
ASERMON before the Society
were kept in the Duties of their ſeveral Stations
by the Polity and the Severity of Laws, and
were obliged to be punctual in their Religious
Worſhip, that is, in all the Tricks and Practices of
Idolatry; but were entirely ignorant of the
True God and the nature of his Worfhip,
of his Providence and Government over the
Moral World, of the Beauty and Reaſonableneſs
and Confequence of a vertuous Life: And tho
they might have ſome dark and perplexing Fears
(conftitutionally annex'd to their very Being) a-
bout another World, yet that natural Apprehen-
fion ſeems to have been an Inftrument only in
the Hands of their Priefts to fupport the Reve-
rence of their falfe Deities; was feldom or ne-
ver applied to the Service of Moral Vertue, and,
where it was, had no certain and regular Effect
upon their Lives and Converfations. Of all this,
I think, we may in fome Meaſure fee the Proofs in
the prefent Circumſtances of the Heathen World,
the Image and Refemblance of the Old one, and
from the fame Reflection be convinc'd, that, for
the Service of the lower People, who make up
the bulk of Mankind, no way could fo effec-
tually inform their Minds, and correct their Prac-
tices, as the delivery of fo clear, fo wife, fo
good a Religion as the Chriftian, communicated
by fo difintereſted, fo condefcending, fo perfect-
ly
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
ly holy and unblameable, and fo great a Perſon,
as our Saviour Chriſt Jeſus.
Secondly, The Poor had the Goſpel preached
unto them, becauſe they were, upon the whole,
beſt diſpoſed to receive it. The higher Part of
Men, it muſt be owned, had the Advantage of
them in this reſpect, if their Tempers had been
fuitable to their Knowledge; but all the Ad-
vantage, which they had from thence, was loſt
in the Corruption of their Manners. For, ufual-
ly ſpeaking, they were proud, and vain, and lux-
urious, had an Intereft in the Eſtabliſhment of
Idolatry, and had, many of them, abuſed their
Knowledge, and formed to themfelves a Set of
looſe and Atheiſtical Principles, to juſtify their
looſe and Atheiſtical Practices: So that they were
very unlikely to be wrought upon by fo honeft
and pure a Scheme of Religion as the Chriftian,
which would more probably make its Progreſs
among Men, who, by the Circumftances of their
Station, were low and humble, placed out of
the Opportunity and Temptations to Luxury,
ignorant indeed of the true Religion, but not
Enemies to it, or engag'd, by any Interefts, to op-
pofe its Progrefs,-- whofe Unhappineſs it was to be
led blindfold into the common Corruptions, but
who had no hand in introducing or fupporting them.
Here, I fay, there was more room for the true
C
Religion
T8
A SERMON before the Society
Religion to take effect, than among the Deſigns
and Prejudices of the Great Ones; and Men, of
this Temper and Station, would naturally fall
into a good Opinion of a Religion, which was ſo
different from the flaviſh Corruptions of Heathe-
nifim, and proceeded from an Author of fo holy
and divine a Character: To them it was a very
uncommon Favour to be fo confidered, as they
were by our bleffed Saviour; and it could not
chooſe but raife the Attention and Gratitude of
the Ignorant, but honeft Vulgar, when he clean-
fed their Lepers, gave Feet to the Lame, Eyes
to the Blind, Ears to the Deaf, and the Goſpel
to the Poor. This was exceeding gracious and
wife in our bleffed Saviour; the Poor moft want-
ed his Information and Affiftance, and were moft
likely to attend to and follow his Inftructions,
and therefore to the Poor he imparted them. I
proceed to confider,
Thirdly, in general, the Advantages with which
the Goſpel was preached, and of what Ufe it
was to the World in point of Information. Now
this has in a great meafure appeared from what
has been mentioned already, as the Subftance of
the Chriſtian Doctrine: For, he that knows any
thing of the State of the Heathen World, when
our Saviour appeared in it, will very eaſily per-
ſuade himſelf of what Advantage it was to have
the
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
19
•
the Chriſtian Knowledge propagated among Men.
For to make an Eſtimate of the Benefit of this
great Difpenfation, we are not fo much to confider
how great a Part of it was knowable by the Light
of Reaſon, or how much actually was known by
Heathens of fuperior Honeſty and Underſtanding,
but what was the Cafe with the Body of the com-
mon People. Here, therefore, we will fix our
Foot, and from this Point of View, take a Pro-
ſpect of the Heathen World; and confider, whe-
ther it was not a moft amazing Inftance of the
Goodness of God to Men, to fend his Son into
the World upon fo important an Errand as the
Goſpel, to revive the Knowledge, and inftruct
the moſt ignorant in the acceptable Worſhip of
the true Creator; -to lay before them a clear
and full Scheme of Duty, confirmed by its own
Reaſon, by the Authority and Miracles of its
Teacher, and illuftrated by his Example; re-
commended by the Promife of God's Grace and
Affiſtance, and enforced by the weighty Sanc
tions of another World; and to fatisfy Men,
moreover, of the Mercy and Placability of the
Deity, whofe Goodneſs tempered his Severity and
Juſtice, and had found out a Way by the Me
diation and Death of Jefus, to pardon the Frail-
ties and Infirmities of human Nature. This,
furely, was a Scheme of Religion, full of very
comfortable and ufeful Reflection to Men, who
C 2
lived
ASERMON before the Society
lived under the Senſe of Sin, and the Horror of
Guilt and Puniſhment, but faw no Way to get
out of it;
who had no Notions at all, or very
uncertain ones, of a future Life; not enough, if
rightly applied, to keep them fteady in the Prac-
tice of their Duty, or to fupport them under the
Adverfities of the World; who ſaw even their
Moral Duty very imperfectly:--- Nature, indeed,
had marked out the great Lines of it, and Ma-
giftracy fupported the Face of the Social Ver-
tues, but the Purity and Perfection of a vertuous
Mind, as, under the Inſpection of an all-ſeeing
Judge, the Foundation of a vertuous Courſe of
Action, was little thought of, or infifted on,
among the Vulgar; who, being ignorant of the
true God, had all their religious Attention di-
rected to the Rites and Service of the falſe Ones.---
Surely, therefore, if this was in Fact the Cafe of
the Gentile World, the Chriſtian Religion was a
vaft Advantage, and might, with great proprie-
ty, be called, ‘a Light ſhining in a dark Place;'
dark, not by the appointment or thro' any De-
fect of Wiſdom and Goodneſs in the Creator, but
thro' the Perverſeneſs of Men, who had made
a fhift almoft to extinguiſh' that Light, which
lightneth every Man that cometh into the
'World'. For Chriftianity was an Advantage,
not ſo properly to Reafon, as to Men; and, if
fo
the antient Apologiſts may be credited, the Ef-
fect,
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
2I
#
fect, which it had upon Mankind, was very
wonderful. The Benefit is now grown common,
and Men are almoſt infenfible of the Change;
but, when the Gofpel was firft preached to the
Poor, it drew the World after it, and made a
moft furprizing Alteration, both in the Know-
ledge and Manners of Men.
From whence it is
very natural to make fuch Inferences as theſe
which follow.
First, That, confidering the deplorable State
of the World, when it appeared, and the mira-
culous Effects it was attended with in its preach-
ing, we are exceedingly beholden to the Grace
of God for the Light of the Goſpel.
It muſt be ſaid indeed, before the Goſpel Diſ-
penfation, and in every Age of the World, Men
had their Reaſon to guide them, which, if faith-
fully followed, would have directed them to the
Knowledge of the true God, and of true Reli-
gion. But this in Fact was of ſmall Avail, and,
whatever was the Cauſe of it, Reaſon had loft its
ground, the Knowledge of the true God was ob-
literated, and, confequently, of true Religion.
God, therefore, was graciouſly pleaſed to inter-
poſe by an extraordinary Revelation, and to
make an eaſy and univerſal Diſcovery of the
important Things in Religion;
moft of them
perhaps deducible from Reaſon, but with great
Difficulty
;
22
A SERMON before the Society
Difficulty and Application, more than the igno-
rant Part of Mankind could employ about them,
and more than the corrupt Part would.
The Goſpel-Precepts of Life are no other than
reaſonable Precepts, it is confeffed; but the Fa-
vour of God to us is not the lefs remarkable
furely, nor leſs the fubject of our Gratitude, be-
cauſe he enjoins nothing elſe by Revelation, in
point of Practice, but what Reafon and Intereſt
would make our voluntary Duty: This one Cir-
cumftance is proof to Demonftration, That Chrif
tianity is a pure and genuine Religion, derived
from the fame Fountain, with our Being and our
Reafon. This therefore muſt be infifted on as a
moſt weighty Argument to us, to be thankful
to God, to obey his Goſpel ourſelves, and pro-
mote its Influence over others; and not, as fome
fooliſh Profeffors of Wiſdom do, fit down and raiſe
Difficulties about the particular Time of its Ap-
pearance, and the fmall Extent of it, in the prefent
Situation of the World, and other Things of that
nice and impertinent Enquiry, and then to quarrel
with the Difpenfations of God, becauſe we cannot
folve all the Difficulties which attend them. What-
ever Nations are at prefent without the Goſpel,
or however long it was, before its Propagation
among Men, this we are very fure of, That we
have it and are we fretful and uneafy, that God
has favoured us with fo diftinguiſhing a Privi-
lege?
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
23
lege? There is no End of fatisfying this captious
and diſcontented Humour.- Now that we enjoy
the Gofpel, and owe more, much more, in point
of Knowledge, to its Diſcoveries, than we are
well aware of,- There is nothing in it, we cry,
but what is reaſonable; the main concerning
Truths of it are as old as the Creation; It is but
a Republication of the Law of Nature: -Why
then this expenfive and needlefs Difpenfation,
and why ſo much Pains taken to inform us, of
what we might have known as well without it?
Admitting all this to be true, which indeed is a
falfe and partial Account of Chriſtianity, we muſt
yet obferve;
On the other hand, Had God not interpofed,
but left the World involved in Darkneſs and Ido-
latry, if the fame Objectors had lived in that
woeful State, and had had Diſcernment enough
to be fenfible of the Difference, How would
they have exclaimed againſt the Hardſhip of it,
That fince the Thing was fo eafy to be effected,
the Deity ſhould not condefcend to inform and
illuminate the Minds of Men, to teach them what
he was, and in what Manner to be acceptably
worſhipped, what End and Purpofe he created
Man for, what was their Duty while they lived,
and what would become of them, when they
died. -- Why, this very Thing God has conde-
fcended to do in the fulleft and most exprefs.
Manner,
24
A SERMON before the Society
}
Manner, and yet Men are not ſatisfied-What is
Perverſeneſs, if this is not fo? It is the very
Temper, which our Saviour cenfured in the Pha-
rifees, comparing it to the Frowardneſs of Chil-
dren, whom neither Mirth nor Seriouſneſs could
pleaſe a Conduct pardonable indeed in Chil-
dren, but an huge Reproach to Men, and an Ar-
gument how much even our Penetration and Un-
derſtanding may hurt us, when it is not under the
guidance of Modeſty and a due Submiffion and Re-
fignation to the Ways of Providence. Confidering
the Nature and Tendency of our Saviour's Doc-
trine, it were hardly to be conceived, that ever
there ſhould have come a Time when it ſhould be
made a Queſtion, whether the Wiſdom and Good-
nefs of God was not moſt apparent in providing,
That the Poor had the Goſpel preach'd unto them,
Secondly, Hence we may be taught to paſs a
juft Judgment upon the Iniquity of the Roman
Church, and how much their Practice tends to
defeat the Defigns of Providence; in fhutting up
the Holy Scriptures, where they can do it, in an
unknown Tongue; denying the People the Uſe
of that living Water; and, inftead of folid and
uſeful and Chriſtian Doctrines, amuſing them with
lying Legends, idle Tales, and fruitless Myfteries.
No Thanks to theſe faithlefs Stewards of the
Goſpel, that the World is not funk again into
Barbarifm
for the Propagation of the Goſpel.
25
Barbariſm and Idolatry--- a Thing in Fact, ſo
far effected in their Communion, that the ftrong-
eft Argument of the Ineffectualneſs of the Chrif
tian Doctrine, to fupport the true worſhip of
God, is taken from the prodigious Ignorance and
the very monftrous Abfurdities practis'd in their
publick Service. And the beſt and ſtrongeſt way
to anſwer this Objection is to appeal from their
Practices to the Tenor of the New Teftament,
and from thence demonftrate, That the Fault
does not lye in the Doctrine of Chrift Jefus, but
in the Wickedneſs of thoſe, who will not fuffer
the Poor either to read or to hear the Goſpel,
till they have garbl'd and corrupted it. So that.
tho' the Men of that Communion do pretend, as
an Argument of their being the true Church of
Chrift, that they can work Miracles, reftore the
Lame, give Sight to the Blind, and Hearing to
the Deaf, yet fo modeft they have always been,
as to omit laying claim to this other more In-
fallible Mark than all the reft, That the Poor
have the Goſpel preached unto them.
But the Time reminds me to haften to my laft
Inference, in which I would recommend to your
Approbation and kind Affiftance, the Defign
of theſe our charitable Affemblies, in which we
endeavour the Succefs and Propagation of Chrif
tianity, which was firſt eſtabliſh'd by Mira-
cle, and has fince been fupported and ſpread
abroad
D
26
A SERMON before the Society
abroad by Teaching, affifted by the Grace of
God.
:
The Chriſtian Religion is a moft compleat and
perfect Inſtitution, the Means which the Wif-
dom of God makes ufe of, to inftruct and fave
the World; and therefore it would be great Un-
mercifulneſs in thofe, who underſtand it them-
felves, not to communicate fuch ufeful Know-
ledge: Knowledge, that is not calculated
to amuſe or entertain us, or to provide for the
little Purpoſes of a fhort and tranfitory Life,
but whofe Views reach a great deal farther,
making Men wife unto Salvation, and fecuring
the great Interefts of another State.
Stupidity and want of Underſtanding is a great
Misfortune, more eſpecially in Matters of the
higheſt Conſequence, as the Things of Religion
are; and fince the true Way to love God is to
know him, and the beſt Argument for the Prac-
tice of Religion is to underſtand it, it is a Point
of moft excellent Charity and Mercy to inform
the Minds of Men, and to let them into the
Reafon and Beauty of Religion, the Wiſdom and
Power and Goodneſs of God, and his unbounded
Love to Men in particular by the moft gracious
and merciful Difpenfation of his Goſpel.
It behoves us therefore, it concerns us highly,
wherever we plant our Colonies and transfer our
Form
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
27
Form of Government, to take particular Care
to fow the Seeds of our good Religion, the na-
tural and providential Pledge of their Succefs and
Duration: For befides the Arguments and Mo-
tives to this Duty from common Mercy and
Humanity to the Blind and Vicious, From
the exprefs Command of our Saviour, -From
the Principle of Gratitude, to the Inhabitants
of theſe fine and fruitful Regions, by whofe
frugal and painful Induſtry, this our native Coun-
try, the Mother of us all, receives great Strength
and Riches. I fay, befides theſe Motives, we
fhould confider (and that perhaps may pleaſe us
better) that it is a Matter of worldly Intereſt
and Advantage: For every Convert to Chrifti-
anity, or Member fecured to our Eſtabliſhment
upon Goſpel and Proteftant Principles, is a Friend
to our Country and Government, as well as to our
Religion; an Argument that ought exceedingly
to weigh with us, when we confider the inde-
fatigable Zeal of Popery, both at home and a-
abroad, in propagating the fhameful Cauſe of
Tyranny and Superſtition.
The Means of our fulfilling this Duty are
fuch as the Providence of God permits to us, and
fuch, as for a long Courfe of Years have been
fuccessfully purſued by this wife and good So-
ciety, and will, we hope, continue till its noble
Ends are anſwer'd. We pretend not to Mi-
racles
D 2
1
28
A SERMON before the Society
式​麵
​racles (we leave the Pretence of them to a Church,
which has nothing elſe to fupport its corrupt and
fooliſh Doctrines, but fuch bold and impious
Falfhoods) but every thing that can be done by
the honeft Induſtry of Chriſtian Men, under the
Influence of God's Grace and Providence, is en-
deavour'd to be done by us.
It ſeeming now that Miracles are ceas'd, the
Props of the Infancy of Chriſtianity, (left, in its
maturer Age to fupport it felf by its own
Strength and Reafon ;) the true Secret of main-
taining it, and farthering its Propagation, is to
preach it upon the Plan and Authority of the
Goſpel only, to recommend it in the Spirit of
Meeknefs, joining to the clear Force of Reafon,
the honeſt Arts and Infinuations of gentle Per-
fuafion; and illuftrating it, by that which gave
our Saviour himſelf a great Part of his Au-
thority, and to which he more than once Appeals,
the pure and fhining Example of a good Life.
That is indeed the enchanting Argument,
and without it, tho' we talk never ſo much of
being civiliz'd, and boaſt of the high Privileges
of our Religion, an underſtanding Heathen will
contemn and deride us. The plain Truth is, and
we muſt not diſguiſe it; the chief Obſtruction in
the Converfion of barbarous Nations, and what
Miracles themſelves could not furmount, arifes
from the bad Lives of Chriftians: For when an
honeft
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
29
honeft Savage obferves the Cruelty, the Fraud,
the Falfhood, the Lewdnefs and Intemperance
of Chriftians, it is a very natural Effect, and what
one muft excufe, if not commend in him, if he fcorns
to be converted by fuch Men, and wraps his own
Religion more cloſe about him. Chriftianity is
more the Religion of the Heart, than of the
Head, and the Excellence and Majeſty of it con-
fifts in the Reaſonableneſs and Simplicity of its
Doctrines, productive of an innocent and uſeful,
and pious Life. Agreeably to this Notion of it,
our Saviour here directs his Doctrine to the Poor,
and ſpeaks of that Circumſtance as its beft: Recom-
mendation. From whence we may be fure, it
muſt be free of Superftition, againſt which they
needed Caution and Inftruction moft-difentan-
gled from the ſubtleties of Controverſy, of which,
happily for them, their Heads were quite incapa-
ble, and confifting of fuch Things only, as would
make them better Men, more uſeful in their ſe-
veral Families, and better Citizens of the World.
And therefore, if in all our endeavours to pro-
pagate it, we govern ourſelves by this plain and
honeft Rule; and teach nothing for Chriftianity,
but what God, by Chrift, has made fo; bid Men
live, for inftance, under a juft Senfe, and lively
Faith in God their Creator and Preferver, -In
Jefus Chrift the Righteous, their Redeemer and
Advocate,-
-In the Holy Ghoft, their Comfort-
er
30
A SERMON before the Society, &c.
er and Sanctifier, and Reverence and Obey the
Laws of the Holy Gofpel, as the wife Oeco-
nomy and Method, which the Providence of
God has chofen to inftruct and fave Mankind;
there is no queftion to be made, but in God's
good Time it will meet with its defired Succefs;--
not ſpread perhaps with the noiſe and oftentation
of Impofture, but, like the pure Goſpel at its
firſt Propagation, filently, fecretly, and effec-
tually, diffuſe its influence through the World.-
And who knows, but future Times may by
Experience filently, fecretly, and effectually,
find a fingular Providence in this Charitable
Work of ours, and we may now be providing
a Refuge for true, though diftrefs'd, Chriftianity
in a diftant World, if God, in the juft Puniſh-
ments of his Adminiftration, fhould remove its
bleſſed Influence from hence.
}
THE EN D.
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel
in Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Pariſh-Church of St. MARY-LE-BOW,
On FRIDAY, February 16, 1738-9.
BY
JOSEPH Lord Bishop of BRISTOL.
LONDON:
Printed for J. and P. KNAPTON, at the Crown
in Ludgate-Street. MDCC XXXIX.
February 16, 1738-9.
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the Society
for the Propagation of the Goſpel in
Foreign Parts.
A
'
W
Greed, That the Thanks of the
SOCIETY be given to the Right
Reverend the Lord Bishop of Bristol, for
his Sermon Preached this Day before the
SOCIETY, and that he be defired to Print
the fame.
David Humphreys, Secretary.
MATT. XXIV. 14.
And this goſpel of the kingdom ſhall be
preached in all the world, for a witness
unto all nations.
T
H E general Doctrine of Religion, that all
things are under the Direction of One
righteous Governor, having been eſta-
bliſhed by repeated Revelations in the firſt
Ages of the World, was left with the Bulk of Man-
kind, to be honeſtly preferved pure and intire, or
careleffly forgotten, or wilfully corrupted. And
though Reaſon, almoft intuitively, bare witneſs to
the Truth of this moral Syftem of Nature, yet
it
foon appeared, that they did not like to retain God in
their knowledge, as to any Purpoſes of real Piety.
Natural Religion became gradually more and more
darkened with Superftition, little underſtood, lefs re-
garded in Practice; and the Face of it ſcarce difcern-
ible at all, in the religious Eſtabliſhments of the moſt
learned, polite Nations. And how much foever
could have been done towards the Revival of it
the Light of Reaſon, yet this Light could not have
diſcovered, what fo nearly concerned Us, that im-
• Rom. i. 28.
A 2
portant
3
4
A SERMON before the Society
portant Part in the Scheme of this World, which re-
gards a Mediator; nor how far the fettled Conftitu-
tion of its Government admitted, Repentance to be
accepted for Remiffion of Sins; after the obfcure In-
timations of theſe things, which poffibly they might
have from Tradition, were corrupted or forgotten.
One People indeed had clearer Notices of them, to-
gether with the genuine Scheme of natural Religion,
preferved in the primitive and ſubſequent Revelations
committed to their Truft; and were defigned to
be a witneſs of God and a Providence to the Na-
tions around them: but this People alſo had corrup-
ted themſelves and their Religion to the higheſt De-
gree, that was confiftent with keeping up the Form
of it.
b
In this State of things, when infinite Wiſdom faw
proper, the general Doctrine of Religion was autho-
ritatively republiſhed in its Purity; and the particu-
lar Diſpenſation of Providence, which this World is
under, manifefted to all Men: even the Difpenfa-
tion of the grace of God towards us, as finful, loft
Creatures, to be recovered by Repentance through a
Mediator; who was to make reconciliation for ini-
quity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and
at length eſtabliſh that new State of things foretold
by the Prophet Daniel, under the Character of a
Kingdom, which the God of heaven would ſet up, and
c
b Eph. iii. z.
c Dan. ix. 24.
a ii. 44.
d
which
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
5
which should never be deftroyed. This, including a
more diſtinct Account of the inſtituted Means,
whereby Chriſt the Mediator would gather together
in one, the children of God, that were fcattered
abroad, and conduct them to the place he is gone to
prepare for them; is the Gospel of the kingdom,
which he here foretells, and elſewhere commands,
ſhould be preached in all the World, for a witneſs un-
to all Nations. And it first began to be spoken by the
Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard
him; God alſo bearing them witness, both with figns and
wonders, and with divers Miracles, and gifts of the
Holy Ghoft, according to his own will: by which
means it was ſpread very widely among the nations
of the world, and became a witness unto them.
When thus much was accompliſhed, as there is a
wonderful Uniformity in the Conduct of Providence,
Chriſtianity was left with Chriſtians, to be tranſmit-
ted down pure and genuine, or corrupted and funk;
in like manner as the Religion of Nature had been
before left with Mankind in general. There was
however this Difference, that by an Inſtitution of ex-
ternal Religion fitted for all Men, (confifting in a
common Form of Chriſtian Worſhip, together with
a ſtanding Miniſtry of Inftruction and Diſcipline,)
it pleaſed God to unite Chriſtians in Communities or
vifible Churches, and all along to preſerve them,
с
* Joh. xi. 52.
f
Joh. xiv. 2, 3.
8 Heb. ii. 3, 4.
over
6
A SERMON before the Society
•
over a great Part of the World; and thus perpetuate
a general Publication of the Gospel. For thefe
Communities, which together make up the catho-
lick vifible Church, are First, the Repofitories of the
written Oracles of God; and, in every Age, have pre-
ferved and publiſhed them, in every Country, where
the Profeffion of Chriſtianity has obtained. Hence
it has come to paſs, and it is a thing very much to be
obferved in the Appointment of Providence, that
even fuch of theſe Communities, as, in a long Suc-
ceffion of Years, have corrupted Chriftianity the
moft, have yet continually carried, together with
their Corruptions, the Confutation of them: for they
have every where preſerved the pure original Standard
of it, the Scripture, to which Recourſe might have
been had, both by the Deceivers and the Deceived,
in every fucceffive Age. Secondly, any particular
Church, in whatever Place eſtabliſhed, is like a Citý
that is ſet on an hill, which cannot be hidh, inviting
all who pafs by, to enter into it. All Perfons to
whom any
Notices of it come, have, in Scripture
language, the Kingdom of God come nigh unto them.
They are reminded of that Religion, which naturaÌ
Conſcience atteſts the Truth of: and they may, if
they will, be inftructed in it more diftinctly, and
likewiſe in the gracious Means, whereby finful Crea-
tures may obtain eternal Life; that chief and final
Good, which all Men, in Proportion to their Under-
h Matt. v. 14.
+
ſtanding
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7
ftanding and Integrity, even in all Ages and Coun-
tries of the heathen World, were ever in Purſuit of.
And Laftly, Out of thefe Churches have all along
gone
forth Perfons, who have preached the Goſpel
in remote Places, with greater or lefs good Effect:
For the Eſtabliſhment of any Profeffion of Chriſtia-
nity, however corrupt, I call a good Effect, whilſt
accompanied with a continued Publication of the
Scripture, notwithſtanding it may for fome Time
lié quite neglected.
•
}
From theſe things, it may be worth obferving by
the way, appears the Weakneſs of all Pleas for neg-
lecting the Publick Service of the Church. For
though a Man prays with as much Devotion and leſs
Interruption at Home, and reads better Sermons there,
yet That will by no means excufe the Neglect of his
appointed Part in keeping up the Profeffion of Chri-
tianity amongſt Mankind. And this Neglect, were
it univerfal, muft be the Diffolution of the whole
vifible Church, i. e. of all Chriftian Communities:
and ſo muſt prevent thoſe good Purpoſes, which were
intended to be anſwered by them; and which they
have, all along, anſwered over the World. For we
fee that by their Means, the Event foretold in the
Text, which began in the preaching of Chriſt and
the Apoſtles, has been carried on, more or leſs, ever
fince, and is ſtill carrying on; theſe being the provi-
dential Means of its Progrefs. And it is, I fuppofe,
the
8
A SERMON before the Society
the Completion of this Event, which St. John had
a Repreſentation of, under the Figure of an Angel
flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting
Gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth,
and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and
people.i
Our Lord adds in the Text, that this ſhould be
for a Witness unto them: for an Evidence of their
Duty, and an Admonition to perform it. But what
would be the Effect, or Succeſs of the general Preach-
ing of the Goſpel, is not here mentioned. And there-
fore the Prophecy of the Text is not parallel to thoſe
others in Scripture, which feem to foretel the glorious
Eſtabliſhment of Chriftianity in the laſt Days: nor
does it appear that they are coincident; otherwiſe
than as the former of thefe Events must be fuppofed
preparatory to the latter. Nay it is not faid here,
that God willeth all men should be faved, and come
unto the knowledge of the truth: though this is the
Language of Scripture elſewhere. The Text declares
no more, than that it was the Appointment of God,
in his righteous Government over the World, that
the Gospel of the Kingdom ſhould be preached for a
Witness unto it.
k
The vifible Conſtitution and Courfe of Nature,
the moral Law written in our Hearts, the pofitive
i Rev. xiv. 6.
* 1 Tim. ii. 4.
Inftitutions
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
Inftitutions of Religion, and even any Memorial of
it, are all ſpoken of in Scripture under this, or the
like Denomination: So are the Prophets, Apoftles,
and our Lord himſelf. They are all Witneſſes, for
the moſt Part unregarded Witneffes, in Behalf of
God, to Mankind. They inform us of his Being
and Providence, and of the particular Difpenfation
of Religion, which We are under; and continually
remind us of them. And they are equally Witneſſes
of theſe things, whether we regard them, or not.
Thus after a Declaration, that Ezekiel fhould be
ſent with a divine Meffage to the Children of Ifrael,
it is added, and they, whether they will hear, or whe-
ther they will forbear, (for they are a rebellious houſe)
yet ſhall know that there hath been a prophet among
them. 1
And our Lord directs the feventy Difciples,
upon their Departure from any City which refufed
to receive them, to declare, Notwithstanding, be you
fure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh un-
to you.
The thing intended in both theſe Paffages
is, That which is expreffed in the Text by the Word,
Witneſs. And all of them together evidently ſuggeſt
thus much, that the Purpoſes of Providence are car-
ried on, by the Preaching of the Goſpel to thoſe who
reject it, as well as to thoſe who embrace it. It is
indeed true, God willeth that all men ſhould be ſaved :
yet, from the unalterable Conſtitution of his Govern-
ment, the Salvation of every man cannot but depend
m
1 Ezek. ii. 5, 7.
B
m Luke x. 11.
upon
4
IO
A SERMON before the Society
n
u pon his Behaviour, and therefore cannot but depend
upon himſelf; and is neceffarily his own Concern, in
a Senfe, in which it cannot be another's. All this
the Scripture declares, in a Manner the moſt forcible
and alarming: Can a man be profitable unto God, as
he that is wife may be profitable unto himself? Is it
any pleasure to the Almighty, that thou art righteous?
or is it gain to Him, that thou makeſt thy way per-
fect? If thou be wife, thou shalt be wife for thy
Self: but if thou fcorneft, thou alone fhalt bear it.•
He that heareth, let him hear; and he that forbear-
eth, let him forbear. And again, He that hath ears
to hear, let him hear: But if any man be ignorant,
i. e. wilfully, let him be ignorant. To the fame
Purpoſe are thoſe awful Words of the Angel, in the
Perſon of Him, to whom all judgment is commit-
ted: He that is unjust, let him be unjust ftill: and
he which is filthy, let him be filthy ftill: and be that
is righteous, let him be righteous ftill: and he that is
holy, let him be holy ftill. And behold, I come quick-
ly; and
and my reward is with me, to give every man ac-
cording as his work ſhall be. The righteous Go-
vernment of the world must be carried on; and, of
neceffity, men ſhall remain the Subjects of it, by be-
ing Examples of its Mercy, or of its Juftice. Life
and death are ſet before them, and whether they like
Shall be given unto them. They are to make their
Choice, and abide by it: but, which foever their
I
» Job. xxii. 2, 31
91 Cor. xiv. 38.
Eccluf. 15, 17.
t
• Prov. ix. 12.
I
Joh. v. 22.
P Ezek. iii. 27.
Rev. xxii. 11, 12.
Choice
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
I I
Choice be, the Gofpel is equally a Witness to them;
and the Purpoſes of Providence are anfwered by this
Witness of the Goſpel.
From the foregoing View of things we ſhould be
reminded, that the fame Reafons which make it
our Duty to inftruct the ignorant in the Relation,
which the Light of Nature fhews they ftand in to
God their Maker, and in the Obligations of Obedi-
ence, Refignation and Love to him, which ariſe out
of that Relation; make it our Duty likewife to in-
ftruct them in all thoſe other Relations, which Reve-
lation informs us of, and in the Obligations of Duty,
which arife out of Them. And the Reaſons for in-
ftructing Men in both theſe, are of the very fame
Kind, as for communicating any uſeful Knowledge
whatever. God, if he had ſo pleaſed, could indeed
miraculouſly have revealed every religious Truth
which concerns Mankind, to every individual Man:
and fo he could every common Truth; and thus have
fuperfeded all uſe of human Teaching in either. Yet
he has not done this: but has appointed, that Men
fhould be inftructed by the Affiftance of their Fel-
low-creatures, in both. Further: though all Know-
ledge from Reaſon is as really from God, as Revela-
tion is yet this laſt is a diſtinguiſhed Favour to us,
and naturally ſtrikes us with the greateſt Awe, and
carries in it an aſſurance, that thoſe things which we
are informed of by it, are of the utmoſt Importance
B 2
to
I 2
A SERMON before the Society
1
to us to be informed of. Revelation therefore, as it de-
mands to be received with a Regard and Reverence
peculiar to itſelf; fo it lays us under Obligations, of
a like peculiar Sort, to communicate the Light of it.
Further ftill: It being an indiſpenſable Law of the
Goſpel, that Chriſtians ſhould unite in religious Com-
munities, and theſe being intended for " Repoſitories
of the written Oracles of God, for ſtanding Memo-
rials of Religion to unthinking Men, and for the Pro-
pagation of it in the World; Chriſtianity is very par-
ticularly to be confidered as a Truft, depofited with
us in Behalf of Others, in Behalf of Mankind, as
well as for our own Inftruction. No one has a Right
to be called a Chriftian, who doth not do fomewhat
in his Station, towards the Diſcharge of this Truft;
who doth not, for Inftance, affift in keeping up the
Profeffion of Chriſtianity where he lives. And it is
an Obligation but little more remote, to affift in do-
ing it in our Factories abroad; and in the Colonies
to which we are related, by their being peopled from
our own Mother-country, and Subjects, indeed very
neceffary ones, to the fame Government with our-
felves: and nearer yet is the Obligation upon fuch
Perfons in particular, as have the Intercourſe of an
advantageous Commerce with them.
Of theſe our Colonies, the Slaves ought to be con-
fidered as inferior Members, and therefore to be
" P. 6, 7.
treated
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
treated as Members of them; and not merely as
Cattle or Goods, the Property of their Mafters.
Nor can the higheſt Property, poffible to be acquired
in theſe Servants, cancel the Obligation to take care
of their religious Inftruction. Deſpicable as they may
appear in our Eyes, they are the Creatures of God, and
of the Race of Mankind, for whom Chrift died:
and it is inexcufable to keep them in Ignorance of the
End, for which they were made; and the Means,
whereby they may become Partakers of the general
Redemption. On the contrary, if the Neceffity of the
Cafe requires, that they be treated with the very ut-
moſt Rigour, that Humanity will at all permit, as
they certainly are; and, for our Advantage, made as
miferable as they well can be in the preſent World;
this furely heightens our Obligation to put them into
as advantageous a Situation as we are able, with re-
gard to Another.
The like Charity we owe to the Natives; owe to
them in a much stricter Senfe than we are apt to
confider, were it only from Neighbourhood, and our
having gotten Poffeffions in their Country. For in-
cidental Circumſtances of this Kind appropriate all
the general Obligations of Charity to particular Per-
fons; and make fuch and fuch Inftances of it, the
Duty of One Man rather than Another. We are
moſt ſtrictly bound to confider theſe
poor unformed
Creatures, as being in all Refpects, of one Family with
ourſelves,
14
A SERMON before the Society
ourſelves, the Family of Mankind; and inſtruct
them in our common Salvation: that they may not
paſs through this Stage of their Being like brute
Beafts; but be put into a Capacity of moral Im-
provements, how low foever they muſt remain as to
others, and fo into a Capacity of qualifying them-
felves for an higher State of Life Hereafter.
All our Affairs fhould be carried on in the Fear of
God, in Subferviency to His Honour, and the Good
of Mankind. And thus Navigation and Commerce
ſhould be confecrated to the Service of Religion, by
being made the Means of propagating it in every
Country, with which we have any Intercourfe. And
the more widely we endeavour to fpread its Light
and Influence, as the forementioned Circumftances,
and others of a like Kind, open and direct our Way,
the more faithful fhall we be judged in the Diſcharge
of that Truft, which is committed to us as Chri-
ftians, when our Lord fhall require an Account of it.
And it may be ſome Encouragement to chearful
Perfeverance in thefe Endeavours, to obferve, not
only that they are our Duty, but alſo that they ſeem
the Means of carrying on a great Scheme of Provi-
dence, which ſhall certainly be accompliſhed. For
the everlasting Gospel ſhall be preached to every Nation :
Jude 3.
y Rev. xiv. 6.
And
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
And the kingdoms of this world ſhall become the king-
doms of our Lord, and of his Chrift.
However, We ought not to be difcouraged in
this good Work, though its future Succefs were lefs
clearly foretold; and though its Effect now in re-
forming Mankind, appeared to be as little as our Ad-
verfaries pretend. They indeed, and perhaps fome
Others, ſeem to require more, than either Experi-
ence or Scripture give Ground to hope for, in the
preſent Courſe of the World. But the bare Eſta-
bliſhment of Chriſtianity in any Place, even the ex-
ternal Form and Profeffion of it, is a very important
and valuable Effect. It is a ſerious Call upon Men to
attend to the natural, and the revealed Doctrine of
Religion. It is a ſtanding Publication of the Goſpel,
and renders it a Witness to them: and by this Means
the Purpoſes of Providence are carrying on, with re-
gard to remote Ages, as well as to the prefent. Caft
thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after
many days. In the morning fow thy feed, and in the
evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knoweft not
whether shall profper, either this or that, or whether
they both ſhall be alike good. We can look but a
little way
into the Connexions and Confequences
of things: Our Duty is to fpread the incorruptible
Seed as widely as we can, and leave it to God to
give the increase. Yet thus much we may be almoſt
very
z Rev. xi. 15.
b
a
a Ecclef. xi. 1, 6.
I
b 1 Cor. iii. 6.
affured
16
A SERMON before the Society
affured of, that the Goſpel wherever it is planted, will
have its genuine Effect upon ſome few; upon more
perhaps than are taken Notice of in the Hurry of the
World. There are, at leaſt, a few Perfons in every
Country and fucceffive Age, fcattered up and down,
and mixt among the reft of Mankind; who, not
being corrupted paft Amendment, but having with-
in them the Principles of Recovery, will be brought
to a moral and religious Senfe of things, by the Efta-
bliſhment of Chriſtianity where they live: and then
will be influenced by the peculiar Doctrines of it, in
Proportion to the Integrity of their Minds; and to
the Clearneſs, Purity and Evidence, with which it is
offered them. Of theſe our Lord ſpeaks in the Pa-
rable of the Sower, as understanding the word, and
bearing fruit, and bringing forth, fome an hundred
fold, fome fixty, fome thirty. One might add, that
theſe Perſons, in Proportion to their Influence, do at
preſent better the State of things: better it even in
the civil Senfe, by giving fome Check to that avow-
ed Profligateneſs, which is a Contradiction to all Or-
der and Government; and, if not checkt, muſt be
the Subverfion of it.
Theſe important Purpoſes, which are certainly to
be expected from the good Work before us, may ſerve
to fhew, how little Weight there is in that Objec-
tion againſt it, from the Want of thoſe miraculous
• Matt. xiii. 23.
Affiftances,
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
Affiſtances, with which the firſt Preachers of Chrifti-
anity proved its Truth. The plain State of the Cafe
is, that the Goſpel, though it be not in the fame De-
gree a Witness to all, who have it made known to
them; yet in fome Degree is fo to all. Miracles to
the Spectators of them, are intuitive Proofs of its
Truth: but the bare preaching of it is a ſerious Ad-
monition to all who hear it, to attend to the Notices
which God has given of himſelf by the Light of Na-
ture; and if Chriſtianity be preached with its pro-
per Evidence, to fubmit to its peculiar Difcipline and
Laws; if not, to inquire honeftly after its Evidence,
in Proportion to their Capacities. And there are
Perfons of ſmall Capacities for Inquiry and Examina-
tion, who yet are wrought upon by it, to deny un-
godliness and worldly lufts, and live foberly, righteously,
and godly in this preſent World, in Expectation of a
future Judgment by Jefus Chrift. Nor can any
Chriſtian, who underſtands his Religion, object, that
theſe Perſons are Chriftians without Evidence: for he
cannot be ignorant Who has declared, that if any man
will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether
it be of God. And, fince the whole End of Chrifti-
anity is to influence the Heart and Actions, were an
Unbeliever to object in that Manner, he ſhould be
aſked, whether he would think it to the Purpoſe to
object againſt Perfons of like Capacities, that they are
Joh. vii. 17.
e
■ Tit. ii. 12, 13.
d
C
prudent
1 8
A SERMON before the Society
1
prudent without Evidence, when, as is often the
Cafe, they are obferved to manage their worldly Af-
fairs with Difcretion?
The Defign before us being therefore in general
unexceptionably good, it were much to be wifhed,
that ſerious Men of all Denominations would join in
it. And let me add, that the foregoing View of
things affords diftinct Reaſons why they fhould.
For, firſt, by fo doing, they affift in a Work of the
moſt uſeful Importance, that of ſpreading over the
World the Scripture itſelf, as a divine Revelation :
and it cannot be ſpread under this Character, for a
Continuance, in any Country, unleſs Chriftian Church-
es be ſupported there; but will always more or leſs,
fo long as fuch Churches fubfift: and therefore their
Subſiſtence ought to be provided for. In the next
Place, they fhould remember, that if Chriftianity
is to be propagated at all, which they acknow-
ledge it fhould, it muſt be in fome particular Form
of Profeffion. And though they think ours liable to
Objections, yet it is poffible they themſelves may be
miſtaken and whether they are or no, the very Na-
ture of Society requires fome Compliance with Others.
And whilft, together with our particular Form of
Chriſtianity, the confeffed Standard of Chriftian Re-
ligion, the Scripture, is ſpread; and eſpecially whilft
every one is freely allowed to ftudy it, and worship
God according to his Confcience; the evident Ten-
dency
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
19
dency is, that genuine Chriftianity will be underftcod
and prevail. Upon the whole therefore, thefe Per-
fons would do well to confider; how far they can
with Reaſon ſatisfy themſelves in neglecting what is
certainly Right, on Account of what is doubtful,
whether it be Wrong; and when the Right is of ſo
much greater Conſequence one Way, than the fup-
poſed Wrong can be the other.
To conclude: Atheiſtical Immorality and Profane-
nefs, furely, is not better in itſelf, nor lefs contrary
to the Deſign of Revelation, than Superftition. Nor
is Superſtition the diſtinguiſhing Vice of the preſent
Age; either at Home, or Abroad. But if our Colo-
nies abroad are left without a publick Religion, and
the Means of Inſtruction, what can be expected, but
that from living in a continued Forgetfulneſs of God,
they will at length ceaſe to believe in Him; and fo
fink into ſtupid Atheiſm? And there is too apparent
Danger of the like horrible Depravity at Home, with-
out the like Excufe for it. Indeed amongft Creatures
naturally formed for Religion, yet ſo much under the
Powers of Imagination, fo apt to deceive themſelves,
and fo liable to be deceived by Others, as Men are;
Superftition is an Evil, which can never be out of
Sight. But even againſt this, true Religion is a great
Security; and the only one. True Religion takes
up that Place in the Mind, which Superftition would
ufurp, and fo leaves little Room for it; and likewiſe
C 2
lays
20
A SERMON before the Society
lays us under the ſtrongeſt Obligations to oppoſe it.
On the contrary, the Danger of Superſtition cannot
but be increaſed by the Prevalence of Irreligion: and
by its general Prevalence, the Evil will be unavoida-
ble. For the common People, wanting a Religion,
will of courſe take up with almoſt any Superftition,
which is thrown in their way and in Proceſs of
Time, amidſt the infinite Viciffitudes of the political
World, the Leaders of Parties will certainly be able
to ſerve themſelves of that Superftition, whatever it
be, which is getting ground; and will not fail to car-
ry it on to the utmoſt Length their Occafions require.
The general Nature of the thing fhews this: and
Hiſtory and Fact confirm it. But what brings the
Obfervation home to ourſelves is, that the great Su-
perftition of which this Nation, in particular, has Rea-
fon to be afraid, is imminent; and the Ways in
which we may, very ſuppoſeably, be overwhelmed by
it, obvious. It is therefore wonderful, thoſe People
who ſeem to think there is but one Evil in Life, that
of Superſtition, fhould not fee, that Atheiſm and
Profaneneſs must be the Introduction of it. So that
in every View of things, and upon all Accounts, Ir-
religion is at preſent our chief Danger. Now the ſe-
veral religious Affociations among us, in which ma-
ny good Men have of late united, appear to be pro-
videntially adapted to this preſent State of the World.
And as all good Men are equally concerned in pro-
moting the End of them; to do it more effectually,
they
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
2 I
they ought to unite in promoting it: which yet is
fcarce practicable upon any new Models, and quite
impoffible upon fuch as every one would think un-
exceptionable. They ought therefore to come into
thoſe already formed to their hands: and even take
Advantage of any Occafion of Union, to add mu-
tual Force to each other's Endeavours in furthering
their common End; however they may differ as to
the beſt Means, or any thing elſe, fubordinate to it.
Indeed there are well-difpofed Perfons, who much
want to be admonifhed, how dangerous a thing it is,
to diſcountenance what is good, becauſe it is not bet-
ter; and hinder what they approve, by raifing Pre-
judices againſt ſome under-part of it. Nor can they
affiſt in rectifying what they think capable of Amend-
ment, in the manner of carrying on theſe Deſigns,
unleſs they will join in the Deſigns themſelves; which
they muſt acknowledge to be good and neceffary
ones. For what can be called good and neceſſary by
Chriſtians, if it be not fo, to fupport Chriftianity
where it muſt otherwiſe fink, and propagate it, where
it muſt otherwiſe be unknown; to reſtrain abandoned,
barefaced Vice, by making uſeful Examples, at leaſt
of Shame, perhaps of Repentance; and to take Care
of the Education of fuch Children, as otherwiſe muſt
be, even educated in Wickedneſs, and trained up to
Deſtruction? Yet good Men ſeparately can do nothing,
proportionable to what is wanting, in any of theſe
Ways:
22
A SERMON before the Society
Ways but their common, united Endeavours may
do a great deal in all of them,
And befides the particular Purpoſes, which theſe
feveral religious Affociations ferve; the more gene-
ral ones which they all ferve, ought not to be paffed
over. Every thing of this Kind is, in fome Degree,
a Safe-guard to Religion; an Obftacle, more or leſs,
in the Way of thofe, who want to have it extir-
pated out of the World. Such Societies alſo contri-
bute more eſpecially towards keeping up the Face of
Chriſtianity among ourſelves; and, by their obtaining
here, the Goſpel is rendred more and more a
Witness to us.
ge-
And if it were duly attended to, and had its
nuine Influence upon our Minds, there would be no
Need of Perfuafions to impart the Bleffing: Nor
would the Means of doing it be wanting. Indeed
the preſent Income of this Society, which depends
upon voluntary Contributions, with the moſt frugal
Management of it, can in no wiſe ſufficiently anfwer
the bare Purpoſes of our Charter: but the Nation, or
even this opulent City itſelf, has it in its Power to
do ſo very much more, that I fear the Mention of it
may be thought too fevere a Reproof, fince fo little
is done. But if the Goſpel had its
proper Influence
upon the Chriftian World in general, as it is the Cen-
tre of Trade and Seat of Learning, a very few Ages,
in
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
23
in all Probability, would fettle Chriſtianity in every
Country, without miraculous Affiftances. For ſcarce
any thing elſe, I am perfuaded, would be wanting to
effect this, but laying it before Men in its divine
Simplicity, together with an Exemplification of it in
the Lives of Chriftian Nations. The unlearned and
unbelievers, falling down on their faces, would wor-
hip God, and report that God is in us of a truth.f
f 1 Cor. xiv. 24, 25.
I
FINI S
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
✔
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel
in Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
* 1
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
ΙΝ ΤΗΕ
Parish-Church of St. MARY-LE-BOW,
On FRIDAY, February 15, 1739-40.
BY
MARTIN Lord Biſhop of Glocefter.
LONDON:
Printed for J. and H. PEMBERTON, at the Golden
Buck againſt St. Dunstan's Church in Fleetstreet.
MDCCXL.
+
:
1
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the Society
for the Propagation of the Gofpel in
Foreign Parts, Febr. 15th, 1739-40.
A Greed, That the Thanks of the
SOCIETY be given to the Right
Reverend the Lord Bifhop of Glocefter,
for his Sermon Preached this Day before-
the SOCIETY; and that his Lordſhip be
defired to Print the fame.
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary.
A
+
1
W4
MALACHI I. 11.
From the rifing of the fun even unto the go-
ing down of the fame, my Name ſhall be
great among the Gentiles; and in every
place Incenfe fhall be offered unto my
Name, and a pure offering: for my
Name shall be great among the Heathen,
faith the Lord of Hofts.
1
T
HE Prophet in this Verfe points out at
once, the Univerfality of the Defign of
the Goſpel; which was to enlighten, as
the Sun doth, every Place: The Progreſs
of its Courfe; Which was to be the fame as that of
the Sun, from East to West: The Purity of its
Doctrine; That the Incenfe, which was in every
Place to be offered, fhould be a Pure Offering: And
the Wonderfulneſs of its Succefs; That the Name
of God ſhould be Great among thoſe who were the
moſt ignorant of it, among the Gentiles and the
Heathen.
In Judah only before this was God known, and
great was his Name in Ifrael. But his Salvation
was now to be prepared before the face of all people;
a Pfalm lxxvi. 1.
A 2
>
J
and
3
4
A SERMON before the Society
and That was to become a light to lighten the Gen-
tiles, which was before the glory of his people Ifrael b
only.
Great Part of the Prophecy of the Text has by
the Providence of God been already fulfilled. And
as furely as Part has been verified, the Whole fhall
be accompliſhed in his good time. But Men are
not to fit idly and unconcernedly waiting for this,
under pretence that they will leave all to the Wif
dom and Power of God. He intended his Pre-
dictions to be accompliſhed by the Agency of Men.
And happy are thoſe Men, who make themſelves
Inftruments and Agents in effecting what Provi-
dence hath defigned; who fhare in the Work, that
they may ſhare in the Rewards of it. They who
neglect or obſtruct it, each in their degree, attempt
to defeat the Purpoſes of Heaven. And tho' the
counſel of God ſhall ſtand, without their Aid, and
in fpight of their Oppofition; yet let them confi-
der, what Rewards they deprive themſelves of, by
not co-operating with, and what Punishments they
fubject themſelves to, by withstanding the Schemes
of Providence.
It is probable from the Interpretation of Pro-
phecies, that the Time when the fulness of the Gen-
tiles shall come ind, is drawing near. But let that
be ever fo uncertain; this at least is certain and
clear, that till their Converfion is fully accompliſh-
c
↳ Luke ii. 31, 32, 33. Prov, xix. 2 1.
$
Rom. xi. 25.
ed,
for the Propagation of the Gofpel..
5
ed, Men are never to cease their Endeavours to
forward it.
And Firſt, As the Chriftian Religion is calcula-
ted for the general and univerfal Benefit of all
Mankind; it is the Duty of all Men to commu-
nicate and ſpread the Knowledge of it.
But Secondly, This may become the Duty of
ſome Men more particularly; as they have greater
Opportunity, or are under more efpecial Obligati-
ons, to ſpread it in fome particular Parts of the Earth.
First, As the Knowledge of the Chriſtian Re-
ligion is for the general Benefit, it was therefore
the Intention of Providence that it ſhould be uni-
verfally publiſhed: And it being the Intereſt of all
Men, to have it communicated to them, it is there-
fore the Duty of all Men, both out of a Principle of
Obedience and Gratitude to God, and Good-Will to
their Brethren, to communicate it to as many as
as poffibly they can.
That the Goſpel was defigned to be Univerfal,
and that our Saviour accordingly commanded his
Diſciples to teach it every where, None who is
the leaſt acquainted with the Scriptures can be ig-
norant. The firft Notices given concerning our
bleffed Lord intimate, what the Prophet Iſaiahe
expreffes, That He was to be a light to the Gentiles,
e Ifaiah xlix. 6.
and
6
A SERMON before the Society
and for falvation unto the ends of the Earth: And
the laſt Inſtruction which Himſelf gave to his
Diſciples was, Go ye into all the World, and preach
the Gospel to every creature f. And that it is the
Intereſt of every Man to have it preached to him,
no Man who is at all acquainted with the Doctrines
of it can deny. For the Goſpel of Chriſt is a
more rational Rule of Private Life, and furer Sup-
port of Publick Society, not only than all the An-
cient Philofophers and Lawgivers could ever con-
trive: But than all the Modern Unbelievers, having
Their Affiſtance, and that of the Goſpel too which
they are blafpheming, have pretended by their own
Sagacity to invent and difcover.
The Knowledge and Belief of a Future State of
Recompence is fo neceffary to make us happy and
eaſy in ourſelves, and to make us behave innocent-
ly and beneficially to others, that if the Goſpel
had brought this one Article only to clear and
univerfal Light, this alone would evidence its Uſe-
fulneſs in the higheſt Degree. To ſay that it did
not do this, is to diſpute againſt Fact. And to
argue whether Men might not have clearly dif
covered the fame Thing by their own Reafon, is
to diſcover nothing but how prone we are to Ingra-
titude, Impiety, and Impertinence.
}
Men were, indeed, fo far from clearly diſcover-
ing this End of their Hope, that the very firft Foun-
dation
£ Matth. xvi. 15.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7
dation and Ground of all true Faith was wrong
laid. If the Generality were not Atheifts, they
were certainly Polytheifts. And what was the
Multitude of their Gods? Either the loweſt of
animated, or meaneſt even of inanimate Things, or
Beings framed merely out of their own Imaginati-
ons; or wicked Men, to whom more deteſtable
Actions, if poffible, were afcribed after their Deaths,
than in their Lives they had been guilty of. And
the Worſhip was ſuited to the Deity: the Ceremo-
nies were as vile as the Gods themselves. And the
learned and polite Athenians, and the wife and pow-
erful Romans, honoured Stocks and Stones with as
abject a Superftition, as the obfcureft and moft il-
literate Nations of the Earth. While their Gods
were fuch, what their own Behaviour would be is
eafy to gueſs. For the Morality of every People
will be always of a Piece with their Theology.
Now the Chriſtian Religion on the contrary not
only teaches what is reaſonable in Theory, but
uſeful in Practice. The Scripture is full of the
moſt beneficial Inſtructions to Princes and Subjects,
Magiſtrates and Private Perfons, Parents and Chil-
dren, Maſters and Servants; delivered in ſo plain a
Manner, that the meaneſt may underſtand them,
and yet with fuch Authority that the Higheſt muſt
attend to them. Nor is Chriftianity lefs conducive
to the inward Peace of every fingle Perfon, than
the outward good Order of Society. For let
fuch
2
8
A SERMON before the Society
fuch as deny this only answer, Is it no Bondage to
lead a Life in perpetual Doubt, and to be always
under the Fear of Death? Is it no Freedom to be
free from all the Terrors of this World, and no
Happineſs to have the eternal Happineſs of the
next revealed, and at the fame Time fecured to
us?
Theſe Matters every ones Experience will fatif-
fy him in. And if Evidence from Facts be defired
for the more publick Benefits of the Goſpel: Let
us confider the State of thoſe Nations, who once
Knew it and now have loft that Knowledge. And
whether we view the Cities fo famous for their
Churches in Afia, or thoſe which were ſo flouriſh-
ing, as long as Chriſtianity flouriſhed, in Africa:
Will there not the greateſt Difference appear be-
tween Places enjoying the Benefits of Chriſtianity
and Places deprived of them? Where-ever the Gof-
pel hath been received and eſtabliſhed by Law,
Temporal Improvements have come in and con-
tinued with it. Where-ever it hath been taught
and practiſed in the greateſt Purity, thofe Countries
have juſt in Proportion enjoyed the greateſt Profpe-
rity. And every Kingdom and People, in the fame
Degree that they have deviated from this Purity,
have declined in worldly Happineſs, and both do-
meſtick and foreign Evils have laid hold upon them.
This the Experience of Seventeen Centuries hath
conftantly been fhewing. But what need we look
to
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
r
to paſt Times or diſtant Places for Evidence of this?
Do we not fee at prefent and feel at Home, that
as the Belief of Chriſtianity has leffened, Vices and
Miſchiefs of all Kinds have increaſed, and Evils
Spiritual and Temporal have flowed in upon us to-
gether?
•
The Doctrines and Precepts of Chriſtianity
therefore appear to be of fuch Importance to the
Welfare of Mankind, that were there no other
Evidence for them, or Recommendation of them
at all, however little Senfe a Man might have of
Religion, he ſhould be induftrious to propagate
them merely out of a Principle of common Hu-
manity.
And what ſhall we think then of thofe Men,
who would paſs themſelves upon the World for
being wiſer and honefter too than all others, and
are very angry if every Body will not own them
to be fuch; whoſe monftrous Endeavour it is, the
Bent of their miferable Thoughts, and the reſt-
lefs Employment of their wretched Lives, to hin-
der this Light from ſpreading, and to extinguiſh
it where-ever it is already fpread; who are at the
Pains and Expence to fend Treatifes even into
America, to prove that all Religion is a Political
Cheat, contriv'd to deceive Men into being juft and
good; that if they are ever fo virtuous, there is
no God to reward them hereafter, or if ever ſo
wicked, none to puniſh them?
B
It
IO
A SERMON before the Society
It could not be expected indeed, that Perfons
who are ridiculing Chriſtianity at Home, fhould
labour to propagate it Abroad. But to find them
labouring and making Contributions to deſtroy it,
and extending their Zeal for that Purpoſe to the
remoteft Parts of the World, this is very furpri-
fing, and must be contradictory to their own
Principles; if they have any, benevolent to Man-
kind. For were we but wife enough to confider only
the Advantage of our Trade in America, yet for
the Sake of That we ſhould take care to propa-
gate
the Chriſtian Revelation; which teaches In-
duſtry, Honeſty, Sobriety, Temperance, Fruga-
lity; which enjoins all thofe Virtues that make
Commerce gainful, and prohibits all thofe Vices
that bring Poverty in their Rear.
But how wrongly, or how little foever others.
will think; no Man who confiders himſelf as a
Chriſtian, (and fuch we all at leaſt are willing to
be called) needs any farther Confideration than
that alone to refolve himſelf, whether it be uſeful
to others to be inftructed in the Gofpel, or whe-
ther it be his own Duty to inftruct them in it.
This Nation was once Part of the Heathen
World. We ourſelves were fometime darkness, tho
now we are light in the Lords. And we cannot
walk as children of light, without endeavouring to
communicate to others what we had the Happi-
8 Eph. v. 8.
nefs
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
I I
neſs of receiving fo early ourſelves. We had in-
deed the Misfortune to fall again into another
Darkneſs, that of Popery. And this ſhould make
us reflect with double Gratitude on the Goodneſs
of God, who hath brought us into Light a fecond
Time; and inſpire us with double Zeal, both to
have the Goſpel preached, and preached in its
Purity. We have been diftinguifh'd by the Fa-
vour of Heaven for a chofen generation, a peculiar
people, which in time paft were not a people, but are
now the people of God; which had not obtained
mercy, but now have obtained mercy. And the
Confequence ought to be, what the Apoſtle tells us
it was intended to be, That we should fhew forth
the praiſes of him who hath called us out of darkneſs
into his marvellous light h. And how can we ex-
preſs our Thankfulneſs better to him for the Mer
cies he hath conferred on us, than by labouring
in Obedience to his Command, to make as many
others as we can Partakers of the fame?
But, Secondly, Befides the general Obligations
which we of this Nation are under to propagate
the Goſpel, we are obliged to it particularly with
refpect to our Colonies in America, both on ac-
count of the great Benefits we receive from them,
and the great Opportunities we have of making
this Recompence.
B 2
s Pet. ii. 9, 10.
Befides
I 2
A SERMON before the Society
Beſides many Iſlands, we have a large Con-
tinent, extending from North to South above
1600 Miles, including our New Settlement in
Georgia; on all which Continent Indian Nations
are bordering. The harvest is undoubtedly great,
and the labourers as certainly are few i. We are
under God the Lords of this harveſt, and it is our
Duty therefore to fend labourers into it. We abun-
dantly reap temporal things thence, and it is juft
therefore that we fhould fow fpiritual things k
there. And we ſhould do this out of a Principle
of Intereſt as well as Senfe of Duty, had we not
fuffer'd the god of this world to blind our eyes 1: and
did not the God of Heaven judicially permit
them to continue fhut, that fince we will look
for nothing but worldly Advantage, we may fail
of ſeeing even that.
The Charter, under which this Society acts, was
granted, To provide an Orthodox Clergy in our
Plantations, Colonies and Factories in America,
where many want the Administration of God's
Word and Sacraments, and feem to be abandoned to
Atheiſm and Infidelity; and for want of Inftruction
in true Religion are in Danger of being perverted
by Romih Priests and Fefuits to their Superftition.
This was the Primary and Immediate Intention
of the Charter. And one would think even they
who make Gold their only Hope, fhould merely
from
'
i Matt. ix. 36.
k 1 Cor. ix. 11.
! 2 Cor. iv. 4.
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
13
from Political Views perceive it to be a prudent In-
tention. Do we imagine, that if theſe People
have no Faith towards God, they will have any
Fidelity to their King? If they lofe all Regard to
right Behaviour in the common Relations of Life
at Home, do we fancy they will retain ftill a
filial Reverence to their remote Mother-Country?
What Principle fhall keep them dutiful Subjects
to this Government, when they have thrown off
all Principles of Duty whatever? Or were they
to continue ſubject, how long would the Service
of ſuch Wretches be worth having? But in rea-
lity, if we do not take care to teach them true
Religion, they will not long remain without being
taught any Religion at all: They will become a
Prey to Popery. And by that Means thofe Peo-
ple and Places will not be only loft to this Coun-
try, but gained to another; and inſtead of uſeful
Supports, become moft dangerous Adverfaries to
us.
But though indeed we are all concerned in
this Matter, yet the Trader is peculiarly fo: be-
cauſe Promoting true Religion, is Promoting, as
already hath been obferved to you, thoſe Virtues,
without which Trade muft fink to nothing, and
with which it muft flouriſh and increaſe. Who-
ever then receives any Advantages from thefe
Plantations, (and all of us receive fome) fhould
in return contribute his Affiftance to what the
ge-
neral
1
14
A SERMON before the Society
neral Welfare is fo nearly concerned in. And
They are obliged to contribute more largely, who
either poffefs Eftates in thofe Parts, or who by
Trading thither are increafing their Fortunes here,
or whoſe Fortunes here have been raiſed by their
Anceſtors by Means of the Trade thither. And
how cheap and eafy Affiftance is the contributing
a little Money, without any farther Pains or
Perils?
But though the Religious Inftruction of our
own People was the Primary View of the Char-
ter; the Secondary Intention was, what muſt fol-
low of courſe, the Propagating the Goſpel among
the bordering Indians. And this feems the only
probable, indeed the only poffible, Way of effect-
ing it. We must first introduce Civil Life and
Arts among them, and make them Men before
we can make them Chriftians.
Sometimes indeed we are told, they are very
virtuous and good Men already, and that in-
ftructing them in Chriſtianity will only be cor-
rupting the Simplicity of their Morals. But nei-
ther have we (God be thanked) fo learned Chrift,
nor do we jo teach him; nor have thefe Perfons
learned at all either what Chriſtianity or what
Heathenifm is. They obferve indeed, that the
Indians are free from feveral Vices, practifed in ci-
viliz'd Nations and Countries, that call themſelves
Chriſtians. But no wonder if they are guilty
2
but
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
but little, or not at all, of what they have few or
no Opportunities for: as Intemperance, Luxury,
Avarice, Ambition. They are innocent in theſe
Refpects, for the fame Reaſon that Brutes are:
Not becauſe the oppofite Virtues adorn them; for
give them the Power, and we have Experience
that they will ſhew but too fully that they want
not the Will, to tranfgrefs in the utmoſt Degree.
They have great need therefore of being inftructed,
in order to their being reformed. Commerce with
them will open the Way to civilizing them, and
that to publiſhing the Goſpel among them with
Succefs. The Gift of Tongues is long ago ceaſed.
Were we to ſpeak to them in Our Own, We ſhould
be Barbarians to them as well as they to us m: or
could we speak any one of Theirs; yet as the
Nations they confiſt of are many and ſmall, and
every one different both in Language and Govern-
ment from the reft, this could prove but of ſmall
Effect.
Such is the Cafe of the Indian Nations, and
very different from the Cafe of thoſe Heathens
whom the firſt Chriſtians converted. They were
People before civilized, ſpeaking one Tongue, and
under one Government, through a large Extent
of Country. They were all indeed almoft under
one great Power, that of the Romans: fo that
there was a mutual Communication from one
Extre-
I
m 1 Cor. xiv. II.
16
A SERMON before the Society
Extremity of them to the other, and the Know-
ledge of the Goſpel was by this more eaſily ſpread
through them all.
And hence may be anfwer'd, in part at leaſt,
a Queſtion ſometimes asked, Why there is not
the fame Progrefs made in the Converfion of this
Part of the World now, as was in the other Parts
by the firſt Teachers of Chriſtianity?
But it ought to be obſerved likewiſe, that as we
have not at preſent the Power of working Mira-
cles; tho' the Effect may be Sure without them,
yet it must be much Slower. The Reaſon why
we have not this Power now is, becauſe it is not
now abfolutely neceffary. Chriftianity could not
have been introduced into the World without it:
But being introduced, may be propagated by the
ordinary Means, if Chriſtians will faithfully ap-
ply them.
If we have not Miracles at preſent, we have
the Evidence of paft Miracles, together with great
Advantages which the first Preachers of Chriftia-
nity had not. We are Protected by the Civil
Power, inſtead of being Perfecuted, as they were:
We have Learning againſt Ignorance, and Know-
ledge of Civil Life againſt Rudeneſs and Barbarity.
Theſe Things give us indeed a great Superiority,
but ſtill require Time to produce their Effects.
But there is a farther Anſwer yet to this Que-
ſtion, which I am very forry can be given, and
that
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
that is, that there is not the fame Purity of Mo-
rals among us now, as was among the first Chri-
ftians. Our Behaviour which the Heathens fee,
is a ſtronger Prejudice againſt receiving our Faith,
than all that they hear from our Miffionaries is an
Argument for it. And I had almoſt faid, Who can
blame a Savage, that when he obferves the Cruel-
ty, the Treachery, the Lewdnefs, the Baſeneſs of
one, who calls himſelf a Chriſtian, he ſcorns to be
called by the fame Name, and become a Profelyte
to fuch a Religion? If our Converfation were, as
the Apoſtle exhorts, honest among the Gentiles,
instead of speaking against us, as they now do, as
evil-doers, they would then by our good Works
which they should behold, glorify God. But, to our
Shame it muſt be owned, inſtead of teaching them
by our Practice Chriſtian Virtues, we have taught
them Vices unknown to them before. By intro-
ducing one of which alone, the Uſe of fpirituous
Liquors, partly for the Profit arifing by the Sale of
them, partly with Defign to intoxicate, and then
over-reach theſe poor Wretches; we have introdu-
ced Diſeaſes which have deftroyed great Multitudes
of them: Some fay, even more than the Spaniards
by all their Cruelties have done.
We have, indeed, in eſtabliſhing our laſt Colo-
• there, propoſed to rectify ſome of theſe Things.
And the Indians who come thither may expect to
ny
C
be
I
D 1 Pet. ii. 12.
• Georgia.
18
A SERMON before the Society
be treated with Juftice and Humanity. They will
be expoſed to no Attempts of taking away their
Reafon in order to deceive them: for the Liquors
which anſwer this Purpoſe are there prohibited.
They will fee no African or other Slaves there, to
make them fear a Deſign of enflaving them too.
And by Means of fo much Humanity towards
them, Chriſtianity will be likely to find an eafier
Entrance among them.
When our Countrymen begun their Intercourfe
with America, and a Colony from hence went to
fettle there, they declared their principal View to
be, not that of Selfiſh and temporal Advantage, but
civilizing and converting the Natives. And had
we been but half fo active as Chriftians to propa-
gate our Faith, as we have been induftrious as Men
to improve our Fortunes in this Part of the World,
our Religion had before this Time made a vaſt
Progrefs there. The abundance of the fea had been
converted, and the forces of the Gentiles had come in
unto us. There are many always going into theſe
Parts in order to get Wealth. And ſurely it is fit-
ing that ſome ſhould be fent upon a better Errand.
But instead of Such, whom do we fend to them?
P
Our Felons and Convicts: Whom being too
bad to be fuffered to live here, we think however
good enough for our Colonies; And do not reflect,
that it might be expected, we ſhould treat our Re-
ligion
› Ifa. lx. 5.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
19
ligion as kindly as we do our Criminals, and not
drive it from us, as we feem to be doing, without
preparing it a Retreat elſewhere.
It is a great Reproach to Chriſtianity, to ſee Men
with ſo much Eagernefs, and thro' fo many Ha-
zards going to theſe Countries, in order to gain the
Wealth that perisheth, or fending their Wealth thither
in Hopes of having more in Return: And not in
the leaſt concern'd to propagate Virtue and Religi-
on there. They will compafs Sea and Land to gain
even a ſmall Matter, but out of great Gains they
will not contribute one Farthing towards humani-
zing and inſtructing theſe poor Wretches. Nay
even they oppoſe the Inftruction of Thoſe who are
the moſt ſerviceable to them, the African Slaves,
upon a bare Suſpicion, left their being inſtructed in
what regards their eternal Intereft, fhould preju-
dice the little worldly Interefts of their Maſters. It
is hard to fay, whether the Wickedneſs or the Fol-
ly of theſe Men is greater. They have been affu-
red by the ableſt Lawyers, and particularly thoſe
Two great Men, One of whom lately was, and
the other now is, fo defervedly at the Head of
that Profeffion, that the Law makes no Alteration
in the outward State of theſe poor Creatures, on
their becoming Chriftians: And the meanest Di-
vine is able to fhew them, that the Gofpel makes
none. Surely then it is not likely, that they ſhould
make the worſe Servants for being taught to ſerve
faith-
C 2
20
A SERMON before the Society
1
faithfully and diligently from a Principle of Con-
fcience. And fince for our Advantage they are
treated with fo great Rigour in this World, we
ought to take great Care to lay before them the
Proſpect of Reſt and Happineſs in another. This
indeed we ſhould do not only in Compaffion and
common Juftice to them, but even out of Kind-
nefs to ourſelves, to make them more willingly
perſevere in a Servitude fo painful to them, and fo
beneficial to us.
Upon theſe Confiderations, this Society has not
only fent Minifters to inftruct the Planters, and
School-Maſters to inſtruct their Children; but Cate-
chifts alfo to inftruct the Heathen Slaves, if their
Chriſtian Mafters will but allow them to be in-
ſtructed.
But the Zeal of the Superftitious, as well as the
Diligence of the Covetous, might ſhame Us into be-
ing zealous alſo, for the Propagation of our Reli-
gion. The Romanifts are indefatigable in fpread-
ing every where the falfe and pernicious Doctrines
of their Church. And why ſhould we be remiſs in
oppofing to them the true and beneficial ones of
ours? Is it Proteſtantiſm to be taken up about what
concerns our temporal Intereſts only, and uncon-
cerned about what relates to the one thing needful?a
The Principle on which our Deliverance from Po-
pery begun, and on which only it can ftand fecure,
a Luke x. 42.
was
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
21
was Reftoring and Promoting Primitive Chriftiani-
ty
in the World. And how did the Primitive Chri-
ftians behave in propagating this Faith? They
went into the moft diftant Countries, thro' the
greateſt Perils, with the Views of no worldly Ad-
vantages, nay on the contrary with the Proſpect of
the greateſt worldly Sufferings, to fulfil the Com-
mands of their bleffed Maſter, and teach Mankind
the Doctrine he had taught Them. They had not
the Favour of Princes to countenance, nor the
Sanction of Magiftrates to authorize their Deſigns.
All that they had from Them, and that they had
in the greateſt Plenty, were Perfecutions and Pu-
niſhments. Let us reflect, that the Goſpel Mo-
tives are not altered from what they were 1700
Years ago. The Alteration is only in the Zeal of
its Profeffors, who will not fo much as contribute,
to the Preaching of it abroad, the fmall Share of
their Plenty which is defired of them, and which
is neceffary for the Support of Miſſionaries, now
that extraordinary and miraculous Affiftances are
ceafed.
But, indeed, we have enjoyed the Light of
Chriſtianity fo long, that we feem to be grown
quite weary of it.
of it. And what can we expect, but
that we ſhould at laft weary out the Patience of
God himſelf, and provoke him, as he hath remo-
ved the Light of the Gofpel from the Eaftern
Churches already, to remove it from us alfo, and
tranf
22
A SERMON before the Society
tranſmit it to others, who may prove more worthy
of it?
We are now engaged in a War, for the Succefs
of which we chiefly depend on Advantages to be
obtained in America. But how can we expect that
God will make us profper there, unleſs we are de-
firous to make Religion and Virtue profper where-
ever we come? Our Attempts of this Kind, fmall
as they are, muft afford us the beſt Foundation of
Hope we have, that Providence will enlarge, or
even preferve to us, what we already poffefs in thofe
Parts.
Concerning fome Charities, Perfons may doubt,
or at leaſt pretend to doubt, whether they are uſe-
ful or not. But though Nominal Chriftians may
not think it worth while to be at the Expence to
make more fuch; yet no one, who is really a Chriſtian
can fail of defiring that others fhould be like him.
And therefore, fince Objections cannot well be rai-
fed againſt the Thing itſelf, they are levelled againſt
the Manner of doing it.
Some good Perfons hinder themfelves from do-
ing much Good in the World, becauſe all that
they do muſt be done in their own Way. And
many bad Perfons, whatever Way any Thing is
done in, take Care to find Fault with that particu-
lar Method, in order to frame an Excufe, when
indeed they are againſt every Method. As to the
former, if they will wait till all Men are of one
Mind,
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
23
Mind, and that their own, it is eaſy to ſee what
good they are likely to do in Life. The only Way
to do any at all is, to be always ready to affift in
doing the moſt, which can be compaffed in the
preſent Circumſtances of Things, and Inclinations
of Perfons. As to the latter, fome Fault may be
found with every Thing, and therefore they can
never want the Excufe, they are always fearching
after, for being uſeleſs and worthless.
One of the Objections made againſt the Me-
thods taken by this Society is, that vicious and un-
qualified Men are commonly fent out by them.
But if Perfons would but enquire before they ob-
ject, they would learn to diſtinguiſh between the
Miffionaries of the Society, and thoſe who are ſent
by others, or go of their own Accord. The So-
ciety never fends out any, but of very good Moral
Characters at leaft; and conftantly makes the ftrict-
eft Enquiry into their Conduct afterwards, and al-
ways removes them upon the firſt Complaint of
any
bad Behaviour. It were to be wiſhed perhaps,
that Men better qualified in Point of Abilities could
be fent. And, therefore, it were to be wiſhed alfo,
that thofe Perſons who find this Fault, would con-
tribute more largely towards the Removal of it,
and enable the Society to make reaſonable Offers to
fuch Perfons, to induce them to leave their Native.
Country for this Service. We have not the fame
Authority over our Clergy, which the Church of
Rome
24
A SERMON before the Society
Rome have over theirs. The Religious Orders fur-
niſh them with endleſs Numbers to employ: and
the Rules of thofe Orders are fuch, that they have
only to fay to any one, Go, and he goeth where-ever
they think fit. Our Clergy are at Liberty from
fuch Commands: and being likewife at Liberty to
Marry, the Generality of them cannot on Account
of their Families either fo readily go, or be fo cheap-
ly fent.
Another Advantage, which that Communion
hath over us for this Work is, that they have
Biſhops in America, both to Infpect the Behaviour
of their Clergy there, and Ordain proper Perfons to
the Miniſtry; by which Means the Expence and
Difficulty of fending them over from hence is in a
great Meaſure avoided. And this Advantage to
the Progrefs of Religion there, is not accompanied at
all with that evil Confequence of detaching the Peo-
ple from their Dependency on their Mother Coun-
try, which fome Wife Men of this World among us
are ſo groundleſly apprehenſive of.
fo
Nor do we come ſhort of the Romish Church in
thefe Things only, but in another ftill, which we
envy them not. They can make Ufe of Force and
Fraud to propagate Religion. We only attempt to
convince Men by Reafon and Truth, and lead
them by Perfuafion and Friendlinefs. For it is not
the Name of Chriſtianity, which this Society con-
tends for, but the Thing. Therefore we do not
affect
2
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
25
affect to have pompous Accounts fent us, how ma-
ny
Adults were Chriftened just as they were dying,
or before they were made to underſtand what Chri-
ftianity is: But how many are made to believe and
live as Chriſtians ought. The Goodness of our De-
fign is all we have to boaſt of. In worldly Power
and Wiſdom we acknowledge the Society at Romer
far to exceed Ours, and perhaps every other Socie-
ty whatever in the whole World. It confifts of
Perfons of the greateſt Influence, beft Abi-
lities, and longeſt Experience, Veterans in Bu-
finefs and Politicks. All who have been Nuncio's
or employed in Publick Affairs abroad, are at their
Return Home, conftituted Members of this Socie-
ty. By which Means, a Correſpondence all over
the World is conftantly kept up; and all fuch Mea-
fures are concerted, as may be moſt conducive to-
wards effecting the Purpoſes they aim at. And
fuch are thoſe Purpoſes, that That Society is one of
the principal Obſtacles to the Propagation of true
Religion among Men. The Romish Church in-
ftead of extirpating Heathenifm, hath almoſt
changed Chriſtianity itſelf into it. The Purity of
our Faith was early corrupted by Science falfly fo
called. This Kind of Knowledge in the darker
Ages ſtill increaſed, and Superftition increaſed with
it. And theſe united, and accommodated to the
Purpoſes of a worldly and ambitious Spirit, brought
I
Society de Propagandâ Fide.
D
1 Tim. vi. 20.
in
26
A SERMON before the Society
in all thoſe Errors and Corruptions, which have
done fo great Diſhonour and Prejudice to the Chri-
ftian Name.
But whatever They may find their Account in,
let Us never teach any Thing for Chriftianity,
but what Chrift and his Apoſtles have taught us.
And then, we may be ſure our bleffed Maſter will
be with us always t, and while we truly preach
Him, he will faithfully affift Us.
The Obftacles, indeed, which lie in the Way
to the Converfion of the Heathen, are many and
great, much more and greater, than thoſe who have
not throughly confidered this Subject ſeem to ap-
prehend. But the greater in Proportion ſhould be
our Zeal to overcome them. If we cannot do all
that we would, we are however obliged to do all
that we can. And if we defer our Endeavours,
till there be no Difficulties nor Difcouragements in
the Way of them, We may as well fairly at firſt
fay, we will defer them for ever. It was almoſt
with a Certainty of lofing their own Lives, that
the firſt Chriſtians attempted to fave the Souls of
others. The Attempt now recommended, is cer-
tainly attended with little Danger, and might be
carried on with no very great Expence. And
ftrange it is, that fo fmall Contributions towards it,
ſhould be made in fo wealthy a Nation, and fo
ready to contribute very largely to the Support of
every
· Matt. xxviii, 20.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
27
every idle Amuſement, or even pernicious Diver-
fion.
The Certain Fund for this great Work is no more
than 57110s. a. Year. The Annual Subſcriptions
to it, amount but to little above 600 l. and
Two Thirds of this Sum are ſubſcribed by the Cler-
gy. All the reft ariſes from Caſual Benefactions,
which have this Year amounted to 2914. They
are all acknowledged with the greateſt Thankful-
neſs. But there is One among them, which can-
not be mentioned without the greateſt Concern
too; as it was the laft annual Gift of a moſt ex-
cellent Lady", an Ornament to her Sex and to Re-
ligion; who when living was a conftant Benefa-
Єtreſs to every uſeful Defign, and at her Death, a-
mong other charitable Legacies, bequeathed 500/
to this Society.
r
The whole Expence which the Society has
been this Year at, amounts to above 3800l. And
many and preffing are the Inftances daily made to
them, for fending and maintaining more Miniſters,
Catechifts, and School-Maſters. But it is only in
Their Power to increaſe the Number of Thefe, as
the Benefactions for them fhall increaſe: Of which
our Profpect cannot be great, while bad Men are
fo zealous in ridiculing and oppofing all Attempts
of this Kind; and thoſe who are comparatively
good
u
D 2
Lady Elizabeth Haftings, who died December 22. The
Legacy here mentioned, will be brought into the next Year's
Account.
28
A SERMON before the Society
good, as Religion and the World go, are fo very
indifferent and lukewarm, that they will fatisfy
themſelves with barely approving good Defigns,
and contribute Nothing but this cheap Approbati-
on towards them.
Though many Objections have been fought for,
one I believe was never made againſt this Society,
that any of the Money charitably given to it, was
not faithfully expended. If there be any who
want to be informed how the Money contributed
is laid out, there is an Annual Account publiſhed
on Purpoſe to inform them. And there hath been
alfo a General Account of this Defign, publiſhed
by the late Secretary w, which I wiſh were more
read, that it might be better known, how great
the Care, and how ftrict the Enquiries of the
Society are.
Yet notwithſtanding this, the Succeſs it muſt be
owned may ſeem but ſmall. But to eſtimate it
rightly, we ought to confider, how much worſe
than it is, the State of our Colonies, as well as the
neighbouring Indians, muft have been with re-
ſpect to Religion, had not the Light of it been in
this Manner held forth to them. And farther,
what St. Paul faith of the Liberality of the Corin-
thians, ought to be faid alfo of the Labours of this
So-
w Hiftorical Account of the Proceedings of the Incorporated
Society for the Propagation of the Gofpel in Foreign Parts.
By David Humphreys D. D. Secretary to the Society.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
29
Society, Your zeal hath provoked very many³. It
hath incited Other Proteftant Countries to attempt
the fame in the East, which we are doing in the
Weft. And Another Religious Society y in this Na-
tion, not content with Endeavours to Promote Chri-
ftian Knowledge at Home, has extended them to
the
X 2 Cor. ix. 2.
> The Society for Promoting Chriftian Knowledge, in the
Year 1710. undertook the Management of fuch Charities, as
fhould be given for the Support and Enlargement of the Pro-
teſtant Miffion, maintained at Tranquebar by the King of Den-
mark. In the Year 1728, upon a Propofal made, that Mr.
Schutze, one of the Danish Miffionaries, would remove to Fort
St. George, and there begin a new Miffion for the Converſion of
the Heathen at Madras, the Society engaged for the Support of
it. Which Expence has been fince increaſed by the Addition of
Two Miffionaries there, and will be ftill more by the ſettling
another Miffion at Cudulore near Fort St. David.
The above-mentioned Society hath procured an Edition of
above 10000 New Teftaments, 6000 Pfalters, and 5000 Cate-
chetical Inſtructions, with an Abridgment of the Hiftory of the
Bible annexed, in order to be fent to the Greek Churches in Pa-
leftine, Syria, Mefopotamia, Arabia, and Egypt. A great Num-
ber of which have been already conveyed into thofe Parts, where,
by means of their own Poverty, and upon Account of the
Turks, whofe Government they are under, not allowing the
Ufe of Printing, the facred Writings both of the Old and New
Teſtament were almoſt wholly loſt.
Befides what this Society hath done in the Eaft, the fame
Society, hearing the melancholy Account of the Sufferings of the
perfecuted Proteftants at Saltzburg, not only made many large
Remittances thither for their Relief, but fent over, at a great Ex-
pence, three Tranſports of more than 150 of theſe Proteftant
Emigrants to the English Colony in Georgia, who with Two
Miffionaries and a School-Maſter are fettled by themſelves at Ebe-
nezer, where Lands are affigned to them by the Truſtees for
eſtabliſhing the faid Colony, and where the Miffionaries and
School-Mafter are now maintained by the aforefaid Society.
3.0
A SERMON before the Society
the preſerving and ſpreading it abroad, by fending
Copies of the New Teftament into thofe Parts of
the East, where the Gospel is already profeffed, but
the Writings of it were almoſt wholly loft: and by.
giving conſtant Encouragement and Support to the
Proteftant Miffionaries fent from other Countries,
who are gone to publiſh it in thoſe Parts, where it was
not before known; and alfo by maintaining Two
Miffions entirely at their own Expence. And fo
by theſe Our joint Endeavours, in theſe Different
Parts of the World, may we hope, that They fhall
fear the name of the Lord from the Weft, and his glo-
ry from the Rifing of the Sun.
Upon the whole then, there is no Reafon for
diſcontinuing or leffening, but rather for increafing
our Endeavours. With Regard to ourselves, our
labour will never be in vain in the Lorda: And
with Regard to others, tho' little Fruit may appear
at preſent from the Seed fown, Who knows what
Harveſts may arife in Time? The Prophecies rela-
ting to the Coming of the Gentiles, That God will
give his Son the heathen for his inheritance, and the
utmoſt parts of the earth for his poffeffion b, have, it is
certain, not been yet fulfilled. If they had, the
Defign of this Society were at an End. But as cer-
tain it is, that they will be fulfilled. Let us be-
come Inftruments then in their Accompliſhment.
It is the moſt honourable Employment, which the
greatest
* Ifa, lix. 19. 1 Cor. xv. 58.
b Pfalm ii. 8.
for the Propagation of the Goſpel.
31
greateſt Perſons can engage in: for it is to have the
Honour of being Fellow-Workers with Gods. Let
us reflect, that from the Converfion of a few now,
whole Kingdoms and Countries may in future Ages
become the Kingdoms of Chriftd. The particular
times and feaſons we know not, which God hath refer-
ved in his own power e. But this we know, that tilf
we fee the Completion of theſe Prophecies, Our
Duty is ſtill to endeavour it.
There is another Prophecy, which the World is
careful enough to fulfil, That in the last days, men
fhall be lovers of their own felves, covetous, proud,
blafphemers, unthankful, unholy, defpifers of those that
are good, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleaſure more
than lovers of God. But notwithſtanding this,
by the Piety and Charity of a few worthy Perſons,
and the Bleffing of God upon their Endeavours, a
great deal of Good hath been effected in a
very little
very
Time. If we look back and confider, that within
lefs then 40 Years, i. e. fince the Incorporating of
this Societys, fuch promifing Advances have been
already made, We may look forward with
Hopes, that a great deal more fhall in Time be
brought to pafs. Were we, indeed, only to think,
how much remains ftill to be.done, and to confi-
der nothing but our own Strength for the doing of
it, this might well make us defpond: But when
we
2.Cor. vi. 1. Rev. xi.
d 15. e Acts i. 7. f 2 Tim, iii. 4.
8 The Charter was granted June 16, 1701. in the 13th of
King William III.
32
A SERMON before the Society, &c.
we look to the powerful Affiftance of Him, by whom
we can do all things, and who will be with us always even
unto the end of the worldh, Then we may truft, that
fince God will bless us, all the Ends of the World fhall
fear Himi. And may God accordingly be merciful
unto us, and bless us, and fhew us the light of his
countenance, and be merciful unto us, that His way
may be known upon Earth, His faving health among
all Nations.
i
h_Matt. xxviii. 20. Pfalm lxvii. 1, 2, 7.
AN
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel
in Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Parish-Church of St. MARY-LE-BOW,
On FRIDAY, February 20. 1740-1.
By THOMAS Lord Biſhop of Oxford.
LOND 0 N:
Printed for and H. PEMBERTON, at the Golden
Buck againſt St. Dunstan's Church in Fleetſtreet.
M DCC XLI.
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the Society
for the Propagation of the Gofpel in
Foreign Parts, in the Veftry-Room of
St. Mary-le-Bow; on Friday the 20th
Day of February, 1740-1.
Greed, That the Thanks of the
A Greed, That the Tn to the Right
SOCIETY be given to the Right
Reverend the Lord Biſhop of Oxford, for
his Sermon preached this Day before the
SOCIETY; and that his Lordſhip be de-
fired to Print the fame.
Philip Bearcroft Secretary.
J
MARK VI. 34.
And Jefus, when he came out, faw much
people; and was moved with compaffion
towards them, because they were as sheep
not having a shepherd: and he began to
teach them many things.
T
HIS Paffage of the Evangelift expref-
fes, in fo ftrong and engaging a man-
ner, the benevolent Temper of our blef-
fed Lord, and his tender Regard to the
fpiritual Wants of Men, that it cannot fail of ex-
citing the fame Difpofition in Us: efpecially if we
confider, that the View, which he is here defcri-
bed to have had, of their deftitute Condition, not
only induced him to teach them Himſelf many things
concerning the Kingdom of God; a but caufed that
moſt ſerious Reflexion and Exhortation, The Har-
veft truly is plenteous, but the Labourers are few;
pray ye therefore the Lord of the Harvest, that he
will fend forth Labourers into his Harveft: im-
mediately after which, He fent forth his twelve
Difciples to preach the Gofpel; as he did the Se-
venty at another time, on the very fame Motive,
mentioned by another Evangelift in the
A 2
C
very
b
fame
Words:
a Luk. ix. II.
• Matth. ix. 36-38.
• Matth. x. I.
>
3
4
ASERMON before the Society
Words: d thus opening the Way, by his previous
Care of the loft Sheep of the Houfe of Ifrael,e for
uniting us all into one Fold under one Shepherd. f
To carry on the great Work which he began, of
directing Mankind to preſent and future Happineſs,
is the End of this Society: incorporated by a
Prince, to whom Religion and Liberty will have
eternal Obligations; and eſtabliſhed, firft for the
Support of Chriſtianity in our Colonies and Facto-
ries abroad, then for the Propagation of it amongſt
the Heathens intermixed with them, and border-
ing upon them; but taking its Name from the re-
moter and more extenfive Part of the Deſign.
Every poffible Reafon required our Predeceffors
in this excellent Undertaking to begin with inſpect-
ing the State of the English Plantations in America.
And nothing could be more applicable to them on
that Occaſion, than the Words of the Text: They
faw much People, and were moved with Compaffion
towards them ; because they were as Sheep not having
a Shepherd. The firſt European Inhabitants there,
being private Adventurers, neither numerous, nor
rich, nor certain of Succefs, nor unanimous in Be-
lief, eſtabliſhed in feveral Provinces no Form what-
ever of publick Worſhip and Inſtruction. Too
of them carried but little Senſe of Chriftiani-
many
ty abroad with them: A great Part of the reſt ſuf-
fer'd it to wear out gradually: and their Children
grew
d Luk. x. 1, 2,
• Matth. x. 6.
f John x. 16.
for the Propagation of the Goſpel.
5
grew of courſe to have yet leſs than they: till in
fome Countries there were ſcarce any Footſteps of
it left, beyond the mere Name. No Teacher was
known, no Religious Affembly held; the Lord's
Day diftinguiſhed only by more general Diffolute-
nefs; the Sacrament of Baptifm not adminiftred for
near twenty Years together, nor that of the Lord's
Supper for near fixty, amongſt many thouſands of
People, who did not deny the Obligation of
thefe Duties, but lived notwithſtanding in a
ſtupid Neglect of them. Such was the State of
things in more of our Colonies than one: and
where it was a little better, it was however lamen-
tably bad. Some Perfons appear very defirous of
ſeeing, what fort of Creatures Men would be,
without the Knowledge of God. Here a fuffici-
ent Trial was made of this: and it fhewed to an
unhappy Degree of Certainty, that they would be
wicked, and diffolute, and brutal in every Reſpect,
and return in a few Generations to entire Barba-
rifm. Poffibly, indeed, they might have been de-
livered from this Evil, by that of Popery; which
always taking Advantage of Ignorance and Pro
faneneſs, had already begun to ſpread: and dread-
ful was the Alternative of one or the other. In
theſe Circumſtances the poor Inhabitants made,
from all Parts, the moſt affecting Repreſentations
of their deplorable Condition: the Truth of which
was but too fully confirmed by their reſpective Go-
vernors, and the Perfons of principal Note in each
Province.
6
A SERMON before the Society
Province. There could not be worthier Objects of
Regard, than fuch Complainants. And if they
who remained infenfible did not deferve pity fo
much, they wanted it ſtill more. The Society
therefore, in Proportion to their own Ability, and
the Need of each Place, firft fent over Miffiona-
ries, to perform the Offices of Religion amongſt
them; then School-maſters, to inſtruct their Chil-
dren in the Principles of it: who, after enduring
much Contradiction of Sinners, and going through
a great Variety of Labours and Difficulties; have,
through the Bleffing of God, made a remarkable
Change in the Face of Things, and laid a noble
Ground-work, of what, we hope, will every Day
be carrying on towards Perfection. But at preſent
much remains to be done. Multitudes continue,
as before, in a thoughtleſs Diſregard to almoſt eve-
ry Part of Chriſtianity: and Multitudes alfo are
daily petitioning for Help: which to ſome we can-
not give at all; and to others fo little, that they
have Divine Service only once in many Weeks;
and ſeveral Diſtricts of fixty, ſeventy and eighty
Miles long, have but one Minifter to officiate in
each of them.
The next Object of the Society's Concern, were
the poor Negroes. Theſe unhappy Wretches
learn, in their Native Country, the groffeft Ido-
latry, and the moſt favage Difpofitions: and then
are fold to the beſt Purchaſer: fometimes by their
Enemies,
8 Heb. xii. 3.
i
1
7
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
*
Enemies, who would elfe put them to Death;
ſometimes by their neareſt Friends, who are either
unable or unwilling to maintain them. Their
Condition in our Colonies, though it cannot well
be worſe than it would have been at home, is yet
nearly as hard as poffible: their Servitude moft la-
borious, their Puniſhments moft fevere. And thus
many thouſands of them ſpend their whole Days,
one Generation after another, undergoing with re-
luctant Minds continual Toil in this World, and
comforted with no Hopes of Reward in a better.
For it is not to be expected, that Mafters, too com-
monly negligent of Chriſtianity themſelves, will
take much Pains to teach it their Slaves: whom
even the better Part of them are in a great meaſure
habituated to confider, as they do their Cattle,
merely with a View to the Profit arifing from
them. Not a few therefore have openly oppofed
their Inſtruction, from an Imagination, now in-
deed proved and acknowledged to be groundleſs,
that Baptiſm would entitle them to Freedom.
Others, by obliging them to work on Sundays to
provide themſelves Neceffaries, leave them neither
Time to learn Religion in, nor any Proſpect of
being able to fubfift, if once the Duty of reſting
on that Day become Part of their Belief. And
fome, it may be feared, have been averfe to their
becoming Chriftians, becauſe, after that, no Pre-
tence will remain for not treating them like Men.
When theſe Obftacles are added to the Fondneſs
they
8
A SERMON before the Society
they have for their old Heathenish Rites, and the
ftrong Prejudices they must have againſt Teachers
from among thoſe, whom they ſerve fo unwilling-
ly; it cannot be wondered, if the Progreſs made
in their Converfion prove but flow. After fome
Experience of this, Catechifts were appointed in
two Places, by way of Trial, for Their Inftructi-
on alone: whofe Succefs, where it was leaft, hath
not been inconfiderable; and fo great in the Plan-
tation belonging to the Society, that out of two
hundred and thirty, at leaſt ſeventy are now Be-
lievers in Chrift. And there is lately an Improve-
ment to this Scheme begun to be executed, by qua-
lifying and employing young Negroes, prudently
chofen, to teach their Countrymen: from which,
in the Opinion of the beſt Judges, we may rea-
ſonably promiſe ourſelves, that this miferable People,
the Generality of whom have hitherto fat in Dark-
nefs, will fee great Light.h
There ftill remains another Branch of the So-
ciety's Care, the Indians bordering on our Settle-
ments. Theſe confift of various Nations, valua-
ble for fome of their Qualities, but immerfed in
the vileft Superftitions, and engaged in almoſt per-
petual Wars againſt each other, which they pro-
ſecute with Barbarities unheard of amongſt the reſt
of Mankind: implacable in their Refentments,
when once provoked; boundleſs in their Intempe-
rance, when they have Opportunities for it, and at
A Matth. iv. 16.
fuch
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
2
fuch Times mischievous in the higheſt Degree:
impatient of Labour, to procure themfelves the
common Conveniencies of Life; inhumanely neg-
ligent of Perſons in Years; and, if Accounts of
fuch Things may be credited, not ſcrupling to kill
and eat their neareſt Relations, when the long
Expeditions they make, for hunting or againſt
Enemies, have reduced them to Straits. Now
theſe poor Creatures alfo, diligent Endeavours
have been uſed to enlighten and reclaim, on ſuch
Occafions, and by fuch Methods, as were leaft
fufpicious. For without due Precautions, Harm
would be done, inſtead of Good, where natural
Jealouſy is fo induftriouſly fomented by an artful
Neighbour. And after all Precautions, it cannot
be an eafy Work, to convert Nations, whofe Man-
ners are fo uncultivated; whofe Languages are fo
different, fo hard to learn, and fo little adapted to
the Doctrines of Religion; with whom we ſcarce
ever contract Affinities; and who feldom continue
long enough in the fame Place, to let any good
Impreffions fix into Habits. Yet notwithſtanding
thefe Difficulties, which fruftrated formerly a very
expenſive Attempt, another hath been made of
late; and, through the Bleffing of God, hath fo
reformed and improved the Morals together with
the Notions of one Indian Tribe, * that we cannot
but hope the reſt will be induced, by ſeeing their
Happiness, to follow their Example.
B
You
* The Mohawks.
10
A SERMON before the Society
You have now heard in brief the State of our
Colonies, with refpect to our Religion. And
were the Proſpect of farther Succefs much fmaller
than it is; yet our Rule would be, to do our Duty,
and leave the Event to Heaven. Perfons of un-
willing or defponding Minds may eafily find Ar-
guments to prove every good Defign unpromifing,
or even impracticable. But the natural Dictate of
Piety and Virtue is, to try. And the exprefs Com-
mand of our bleſſed Lord is, that the Gospel be
preached to every Creature Nor is only the
Offer of Inſtruction to Heathens, but the Conti-
nuance of it for ever amongſt Chriſtians, the Will
of Him, who, as he gave fome, Apoftles and Evan-
gelifts; gave fome alfo, Paftors and Teachers, for
the perfecting of the Saints, and the edifying of his
Body. By endeavouring to our Power that theſe
things be done; we ſhall pay Obedience to his Au-
thority, and imitate his Example: we ſhall give a
Proof to our own Hearts, that we are indeed his
Diſciples; and convince the World, that Zeal for
Religion is not yet extinguiſhed: we ſhall habitu-
ate ourſelves to the moſt amiable of Virtues, Good-
will to Mankind in the most important of their
Interefts: we ſhall ferve the Purpoſes of Provi-
dence; which have their Accompliſhment, whe-
ther Men will hear, or whether they will forbear:1
and how much foever we may labour in vain with
reſpect
i Mark xvi. 15. Ephef. iv. 11, 12,
* Ephef. iv. 11, 12. Exek. ii. 5.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
I 1
reſpect to others; yet our Judgment will be with
the Lord, and our Work with our God.m
But the fame God hath promiſed, that his Truth
ſhall finally prevail upon Earth. And though we
cannot fay, at what Time or by what Degrees this
Promife ſhall be fulfilled; yet we have room to
hope, that every fincere Endeavour is all along
contributing fomething towards its Completion.
The good Seed, which appears to lie dead for a
while, will fpring up in its Seafon: That which
ſeems to ſhoot weakly at firft, will gain Strength
infenfibly, through the favourable Influences of
Heaven; and the Grain of Mustard-feed, become a
Tree.n Thus have theſe Colonies themſelves grown:
thus hath Chriſtianity grown from its Beginning,
both in other Places, and in them alfo: nor have
we any reaſon to doubt its going on to do fo ftill.
In less than forty Years, under many Difcourage-
ments, and with an Income very difproportionate
to the Vaſtneſs of the Undertaking, a great deal
hath been done: though little notice may have been
taken of it, by Perſons unattentive to theſe things,
or backward to acknowledge them. Near a hun-
dred Churches have been built: above ten thou-
fand Bibles and Common-Prayers, above a hundred
thouſand other pious Tracts diftributed: great Mul-
titudes, upon the whole, of Negroes and Indians
brought over to the Chriſtian Faith: many nume-
B 2
m Ifai. xlix. 5.
n Matt. xiii. 31, 32.
rous
I 2
ASERMON before the Society
rous Congregations have been fet up, which now
ſupport the Worſhip of God at their own Expence,
where it was not known before: and feventy Per-
fons are conſtantly employed, at the Expence of
the Society, in the farther Service of the Goſpel.
All this, we grant, makes but a ſmall Appearance,
in a Tract of Land, extending fixteen hundred
Miles. But it is an encouraging Specimen how-
ever, of what longer Time and more liberal Affift-
ance may effect.
Both the Hopes and the Means of fupporting
Chriſtianity amongst our own People there, are
juſt the ſame as here at home. And though the
Negroes and Indians are prejudiced againſt it, and
but poorly qualified, in compariſon, to judge of
the Evidence of it; yet they and all Men have the
Work of the Law written in their Hearts, their
Confciences also bearing witness. They may be
convicted but too eaſily of tranfgreffing evident
Duties of Nature: and when once they fee their
need of Repentance and Pardon, they will gladly
receive the Gospel of Chrift, of which theſe two
are the diſtinguiſhing Articles. It will appear in it
felf infinitely preferable to what they have believed
hitherto. The Teachers of it will appear, both
from their fuperior Knowledge and good Lives,
worthy of Credit. The Profeffors of it around
them, will bear a Teftimony to it, in ſome reſpects
the ftronger, for their being often condemned by
it.
• Rom. ii. 15-
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
13
it. And if fuch Arguments do not amount, after
all, to the higheſt Evidence, they afford however
very rational Motives of Affent, eſpecially to Per-
fons capable of no farther Information: and were
theſe Motives weaker than they are, yet the Grace
of God producing by them fo powerful an Effect
on the Minds of Men, we undoubtedly approve
ourfelves, by propofing them, His Minifters for
the Happineſs of our Fellow-Creatures; and may
justly be confident, that he who hath begun a good
Work in them, will perform it perfectly.
{
P
But perhaps not our Succefs, but the Ufe and
Benefit of it, will be called in queſtion. Now of
this, we apprehend, there is abundant Proof. The
bare Profeffion and outward Appearance of ſuch a
Religion as the Chriſtian is, if taught in any tole-
rable Purity, muſt have fome right Influence: and
the Body of a People cannot go the utmoſt Lengths
in Wickedneſs, whilſt that Appearance fubfifts.
What Lengths they would go in time, if it were
loft, as we have not experienced, we are not apt to
confider. But a little Reflexion on the Number
and Strength of human Paffions, and the Abilities
we have of finding Means to gratify them, would
give us a high Value of whatever hath any peculiar
Force to reſtrain them. The one Inftitution of a
Day of holy Reft, is not only, under prudent Re-
gulations, a great Refreshment to the Bulk of
Mankind; but greatly tends to civilize them alfo,
:
P1 Phil. i. 6.
by
14
A SERMON before the Society
by uniting Neighbourhoods in formed Affemblies,
to acknowledge their common Dependance on
God, and Relation to each other, with Hearts dif
engaged from ſelfiſh Attentions, and open to friend-
ly Regards. Nor is it poffible, be they ever fo negli-
gent Hearers of publick Worſhip and Inftruction,
but confiderable Impreffions, at leaſt general ones,
muſt remain upon their Minds. And most evi-
dently the Impreffions of Religion diſpoſe Men to
every Thing productive of common Good: To
Juftice and Veracity and the Reverence of an Oath,
without which the Intercourfe of Man with Man
is not a Moment fafe: to Faithfulneſs, Duty and
Love in the ſeveral Relations of Life, publick and
private to Mildneſs, Charity and Compaffion in
their whole Behaviour: to Sobriety and Induſtry,
the Pillars of national Wealth and Greatneſs: and
to that joyful Hope of a better World, which is
our trueft Direction, and firmeft Support, in
every Stage of our Journey through This. Many
more Perfons will be thus influenced in various De-
grees, than are uſually obſerved: for a regular, in-
offenfive Behaviour affords little Matter of Specula-
tion and Difcourfe. And though ftill the Genera-
lity may be bad; yet, if left to themſelves, they
would certainly have been worſe. Every body
owns, that a wrong Belief hath great Power to
deprave Men's Morals. Surely then a right one
muſt have ſome Power to reform them. And if
not fo much as might be wifhed; this is no more an
Argument
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
Argument againſt the Uſefulneſs of Religion, than
of Reaſon: but a ftrong Argument, why Both
ſhould be cultivated to the utmoft; and care-
fully applied to fo important a Purpoſe. If our
Colonies had not experienced great Evils from the
Decay of Chriſtianity amongſt them; they would
never have petitioned us fo earneſtly for Inſtruction
in it, as they have done. And if they had not ex-
perienced great Good from the Reſtoration of it,
that Earneſtneſs would never have continued, as it
doth, to this Day.
q
Nor will our Compliance with their Requeſt be a
Benefit only to Them, but to this Nation alfo. If
They are diſhoneſt and profligate; every fingle Per-
fon here, who hath Concerns with them, will be
in Danger of ſuffering by it. If they confume
their Wealth and their Time in Vices and Follies;
their Trade will be gained over, from Them and
Us, by our Rivals and Adverſaries. And if the
Ties of a Religion, binding Men fo ftrongly to
be fubject for Confcience Sake, are loofened from
off their Minds, which may fome time or another
need every Tie, that can keep them attached to us;
it will much facilitate their becoming Adverfaries
themſelves. And we fhall well deferve their re-
volting from Us, if we take no care of their obey-
ing God. But on the contrary, as Chriftian Prin-
ciples will teach them Dutifulneſs and Loyalty;
fo receiving from hence the fupport of thofe Prin-
ciples,
a Rom. xiii. 5.
16
A SERMON before the Society
ciples, will recommend us to their Gratitude;
hoping for the Continuance of that Support, will
create fome Dependance in point of Intereft; and
agreeing in the fame Faith and Worſhip with us,
will be an everlaſting Motive to civil Unity alſo.
But another common Benefit of propagating
Chriſtianity in our Colonies is, that thus we ſhall
hinder Corruptions of Chriſtianity from prevailing
there, and ſharing with Profaneneſs a divided Em-
pire over the Land. If no authorized Teachers are
fent, fome Inducement or another will raiſe volun-
tary ones from time to time: and very poffibly the
leſs reaſonable their Doctrine is, the more it may
be hearken'd to. For Sentiments of Religion, as
for want of due Cultivation they quite wear out of
fome Minds; fo in others they degenerate into Su-
perſtition or Enthuſiaſm. And accordingly many
pernicious Errors, befides the above-mentioned ca-
pital one of Popery, took early Root in theſe Pro-
vinces; nor are they yet extirpated, perhaps in part
newly revived; Some, diffolving the Obligations of
moral Duties: Some, deftroying, the inward Peace
of very pious and good Perfons, and making Life
gloomy and uncomfortable: Some, leading Men
to aſcribe every Folly or Wickednefs that poffeffes
the Fancy to Divine Inſpiration: Some, inconfiſt-
ent with our preſent happy Eſtabliſhment: and
others, deſtructive of the Safety of all Governments
whatever, by forbidding to contribute any kind of
Affiſtance to the públick Defence againſt Enemies :
on
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
on which Notion the Repreſentatives of the Pro-
vince of Penfylvania have acted this laſt Summer.
Now let it only be confider'd, how fatal a more
general Belief of fome of theſe Doctrines muſt have
been there at prefent; indeed how very unhappy
the Belief of any of them muſt be at all times; and
the Importance of fupporting Inftructors in true
Reli-
C
See a printed Collection of Meffages, Anſwers, Addreffes, &;
the Subftance of which is as follows. The Quakers, having applied
themselves with great Induftry to obtain an uncommon Majority in the
Affembly, though they are not above one third of the People in Num-
ber, refuſed to make any Provifion of Neceffaries for the Troops to be
raifed in that Province, as being a thing repugnant to their Religious
Principles, though his Majefty had notified under. bis Sign Manual,
that he expected it from them. Soon after this they adjourned for
above five Weeks; though the Governor made ftrong Inftances to the
contrary, fetting forth, That as the new Levies were in want of every
thing, even Houfes to cover their Heads, He was hourly apprehenſive
of their committing fome Disorders. And being called together again
by him in about a Fortnight, inftead of raifing any Money, they
made a Complaint, that many of their Servants had been inlifted;
and demanded the Reftitution of them. The Governor anfwer'd,
that they might eafily have prevented this Inconvenience, and might
ftill eafily remedy it, by Methods which he pointed out to them;
that he had done what he could to relieve them, and would continue
to do fo; but that forcing out of his Majefty's Troops at once all the
Servants in them, would be unreaſonable and unjuſt, very detrimen-
tal to the Service, and very dangerous to the publiek Peace. Yet
notwithſtanding theſe Repreſentations, and though Mr. Penn one of
their Proprietors, many Merchants and other Inhabitants of Phila-
delphia, and the Council of the Province, concurred with the Go-
vernor, and preffed them, earnestly to answer his Majesty's Expecta-
tions, they came at length to this Refolution only: That 3000l. of
their current Money be paid for the King's Ufe; provided that all the
Servants inlifted in the Province, whom they had computed at 300,
and valued at 107. each, be first returned to their refpe&ive Mafters, free
of all Charges; and fuch Affurances given, as three Perfons, named in
the Refolution, Should think fitting, that the faid Servants are re-
turned, and that no Servants be inlifted for the future. Theſe being
the Conditions on which the Money was given, it will not be won-
der'd at, that when the laſt Advices came from thence, no Part of it
had been paid.
18
A SERMON before the Society
Religion, were it only for a ſtanding Guard againſt
the worldly Inconveniences of falſe Religion, will
evidently appear very great.
*But let us now think, what. Good muft follow
from extending this Inftruction to the poor Ne-
groes alfo. The Servitude and hard Labour they
undergo, be it as juftifiable as it can, furely re-
quires, that we ſhould make them all the Amends
in our Power: and the Danger, into which they
have brought our Colonies more than once, de-
mands the greateſt Care to compofe and ſoften their
vindictive and fullen Spirits. Now there can be
nothing contrived on Purpoſe, more likely to effect
this, than Belief of the Gofpel: which not only
forbids in general, both doing and recompenfing
Evil;s but commands in particular as many as are
Servants under the Yoke, to count their Masters wor-
thy of all Honour, and be fubject to them with all
Fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the
froward; for this is thank-worthy, if a Man for
Confcience towards God endure Grief, fuffering
wrongfully:" to do Service with good Will, as to the
Lord, and not to Men; knowing that whatever good
any Man doth, the fame he fhall receive of the Lord,
whether he be bond or free.w The Tendency of
fuch Doctrine must be, to make their Tempers
milder, and their Lives happier. And no Imagi-
t
• Rom. xii. 17: t 1 Tim. vi. 1.
* Ephef. vi. 7, 8.
nation
D Peter ii. 18, 19.
}
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
19
X
nation can be ſuggeſted to them, of any worldly
Exemptions or Privileges arifing from their Pro-
feffion of it. For as human Authority hath grant-
ed them none, fo the Scripture, far from making
any Alteration in Civil Rights, exprefly directs,
that every Man abide in the Condition wherein he is
called, with great Indifference of Mind concerning
outward Circumftances: and the only Rule it
preſcribes for Servants of the fame Religion with
their Maſters, is, not to defpife them becauſe they are
Brethren; but do them Service the rathery Nor
hath Experience at all fhewn the Behaviour of fuch,
in the prefent Cafe, to be different from what
Reaſon would lead us to expect. On the contrary
în a great Rebellion of the Negroes at New York,
only two of thofe who had received any Inſtructi-
on, and only one who had been baptized, was fo
much as fufpected of being guilty; and he was
afterwards acknowledged to be innocent: but the
deepeft in the Confpiracy were the Slaves of thoſe
Perfons, who had oppofed the moſt warmly all
Endeavours for their Converfion. It may there-
fore be depended on, that Succeſs in theſe Endea-
vours will both be a Security, and every Way an
Advantage, to their Proprietors. And if it doth
procure the poor Wretches themſelves a little more
kind Ufage, they will then be fitter to receive it:
and at preſent, as much as can be fafely allowed
them, is but their due. The Apostle's Injunction
I
* 1 Cor. vii. 20-24.
C 2
was
*�Jཏྭཱ.
1 Tim. vi. 2.
*
20
A SERMON before the Society
was made not only for Slaves, but for Heathen
Slaves: Mafters, give to your Servants that which
is juft and equal: knowing that ye also have a Ma-
fter in Heaven: z neither is there respect of Perfons
with hima And if their becoming Chriftians will
help, as it certainly will, to obtain them fuch Treat-
ment; putting together their Condition and their
Numbers, there are but few Things, which, even
on that Account, common Humanity more obliges
us to attempt.
Then as to the Influence of Chriſtianity on the
Indians: it muft undoubtedly reſtrain their mutu-
al Barbarities, which it doth not appear what elſe
will, and diſpoſe them to a fettled and orderly
Life. By means of this, they will come to enjoy the
Benefit of Agriculture, and of all the Arts that are
ufeful in Society: they will of conſequence grow
happier and more numerous: and as they will be-
come at the fame Time more harmleſs too; it
would be both an immoral and a falſe Policy, to
envy them theſe Advantages, They have yielded
up to us a confiderable Part of their Country: and
it is but common Gratitude, to fhew them theWay
of living comfortably in the reft. We have in-
troduced amongſt them both Diſeaſes and Vices,
which have deſtroyed great Numbers of them:
Surely it is fit we ſhould communicate fomething
good to them. It may be feared they are hitherto
the worſe for their Knowledge of Us: but they
will
f
z Col. iv. 1. a Ephef, vi. 9.
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
21
will certainly be the better for the Knowledge of
our Religion. And the more they are prejudiced
againſt it by the Wickedness of its Profeffors, the
more need there is to lay before them in a full
Light the Excellency of its Precepts: and to con-
vince them, that there are Perfons, who not only
believe, but practiſe them. Nor fhould it be for-
gotten, that every fingle Indian, whom we make
a Chriſtian, we make a Friend and Ally at the
fame Time; both againſt the remaining Heathen,
and a much more dangerous Neighbour, from
whoſe Inſtigations almoſt all that we have fuffered
by them is allowed to have come.
But the temporal Advantages of propagating
Chriſtianity are infinitely the leaft. If we allow
but the Truth of natural Religion, we muſt admit
the future, as well as prefent, Happineſs of Man--
kind to depend on preferving and diffufing the
Knowledge of that Religion. And there is nei-
ther Inſtance nor Proſpect of either of theſe Things
being attempted by any other Method, than that
of preaching the Goſpel: of which the Doctrines
and Duties of Nature make fo large a Part. If
therefore it be of Importance, that the People in
our Colonies ſhould worſhip the Maker of Hea-
ven and Earth, and believe Virtue to be his Law;
that the Negroes and Indians fhould be turned from
Idols, to ferve the living and true God; b and that
all fhould know, there will be a Recompence
hereafter
bi Theff. i. 9.
22
A SERMON before the Society
hereafter to the Juft and to the Unjuft: whoever
deferves the Name of Deift in a good Senfe, who-
ever is indeed an Enemy to Superſtition, and a
Friend to Mankind, will rejoice to have that Faith
carefully taught amongst them, by which alone
they will learn theſe momentous Truths; to have
it told among the Heathen, that the Lord is King,
and that he ſhall judge the People righteouſly.c
But if the Gospel of Chrift, befides comprehend-
ing the Syſtem of Natural Religion, be, by virtue
of its own peculiar Doctrines, the Power of God
unto Salvation: then every poffible Motive con-
curs, for being zealous in fpreading it throughout
the Earth. Revelation indeed neither obliges nor
permits us to país a hard Sentence on thofe, who
have never had it propoſed with fufficient Evi-
dence. To their own Mafter they stand or fall: e
and of them only, to whom much is given, ſhall
much be required. For if there be firſt a willing
Mind, it is accepted according to that a Man hath,
and not according to that he hath not.ff But still, as
all Men have finned, and come fhort of the Glory of
God, and there is but one Name under Heaven
whereby they can be faved; as Chriftianity is inex-
preffibly more efficacious for the Reſtoration of
Mankind, than unaffifted Reaſon; as our only Af
furance, either of receiving a future Reward or
J
e Pfal. xcvi. 10.
Luke xii. 48.
d Rom. i. 16.
ff
2 Cor. viii. 12.
eſcaping
• Rom. iv. 14.
ɛ Rom. iii. 23.
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
23
eſcaping future Puniſhment, muſt arife from Scrip-
ture; and we have no Intimation in it, of any
Perfon's enjoying that Life and Immortality, which
Jefus Chrift bath brought to Light,h but fuch as be-
lieve in him: theſe Confiderations, without limit-
ing at all the free Mercies of God, cannot but ſhew
us the great Superiority of our own Condition, and
make us afk, with great Sollicitude concerning
others: How then ſhall they believe in Him, of whom
they have not heard? And how shall they hear, with-
out a Preacher? And how fhall they preach, except
they be fent? Our bleffed Lord hath intrufted his
Followers, to preſerve his Goſpel in Purity, where
it is; and communicate it, where it is not. By
their faithful Difcharge of thefe Duties formerly,
we ourſelves were deliver'd from the Bondage of
Heatheniſm into the glorious Liberty of the Children
of God. It now belongs to Us, in our Turn, to
Strengthen our Brethren, and call them that are afar
off: :m and where ſhall we find properer Objects of
our Care and Zeal?
Perhaps it will be faid, They ought to maintain
their own Teachers. But this cannot be expected
from the Heathen, who are infenfible of their
Want of them: nor from thofe of our own People,
who are too like Heathen, and have not the Senfe
of it which they ought. Such as have, do main-
tain
* Rom. viii. 25,
h
2
Tim. 1. 10.
1 Luke xxii. 32.
i Rom, x. 14, 15·
m A&s ii. 39.
24
A SERMON before the Society
A
tain their Teachers, where they are able. For
there are very indigent Parts, as well as very opu-
lent. Some whole Provinces have no Affiftance at
all from us. And in moſt Places we are only joint
Contributors. As foon as ever there is Room for
it, they will be left to build by themſelves on the
Foundation laid: and the Society will go on to
new Work. Enquiries are conftantly made, what
each Congregation can do: and Miffionaries have
been with-drawn, till they will do it. For we
are not only defirous, but under a Neceffity, of
being as frugal as poffible, by the daily Increaſe of
Petitions for Help.
But fome will object farther, that all the Affift-
ance we can give Chriſtianity, is too much wanted
in our own Country, to admit of any Schemes for
propagating it in foreign ones. And would to God
theſe Perfons would aſk themſelves, whether they
are indeed defirous of removing the Objection
they make; or only argue against this and that
Way of doing Good, to fave the Expence of do-
ing it in any Way... A true and judicious Zeal
will carefully avoid raifing an Oppofition between
two Charities; which is a much furer Method of
hurting the One, than ſerving the Other: whereas
with this Precaution, a firft fcarce ever fuffers con-
fiderably, if at all, by fetting up a ſecond; but
Men's Hearts are engaged to contribute to Both.
Every fingle Member of the Society for promoting
Chriftian Knowledge at home, was originally in-
согро-
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
25
corporated into Ours for ſpreading it abroad. That
Society is at this Day promoting the fame Know-
ledge in the Eaft, as well as here; whilſt We are
doing it in the Weft. Many of us belong to Both:
and promiſe ourſelves a larger Share of the Bleffing
of God in Each, for neglecting Neither. In thefe
Nations great Provifion is made already, and
greater we hope will daily be made, for offering
Salvation to Mankind. They who will reject it
after all, muft do fo, and take the Confequences.
But let Us, in nothing terrified by our Adverfaries,
Strive together for the Faith of the Gofpél:n and not
only fuftain a Defenfive War, but ſhew, that at-
tacking the Dominions of our Lord and Mafter
fhall increaſe our Zeal to extend them. Our Co-
loņies receive from hence a great deal of what is
bad. We fend them our Malefactors: we fend
them our immoral and irreligious Cuftoms: we
fend them our infidel and profligate Books, Surely
we ought to do fome Good, where we do fo much
Harm. And confider, To whom is it done? To
our Countrymen, and Fellow-Subjects: diftant in-
deed from us in Situation, but cloſely connected by
the ſtrongeſt Ties. To Them; to their Servants
and Neighbours it is, that we are imparting Hap-
pineſs; and poffibly fecuring it to ourſelves or our
Pofterity there, if God ſhould permit us at home
to fuffer what we deferve.
D
Now
■ Phil. i. 27, 28.
-
26
A SERMON before the Society
1
Now this unquestionably right Deſign cannot be
carried on, but under the Direction of a regular
Society. For without it, fmall Benefactions could
not be applied at all: and large ones muſt be ap-
plied feparately, to great Difadvantage: no uni-
form Influence could be preferved, no fettled In-
formation had; nor any of that Experience gain-
ed, which reſults from long and extenſive Acquain-
tance with the State of Things. What fort of
Perfons they are who compofe this Society, will
appear from the printed Lift. None of them re-
ceive any temporal Advantage from being Mem-
bers of it. They are all obliged to fubfcribe a year-
Contribution to the good Work they undertake.
A confiderable Number of the Chief of them con-
ftantly attend upon it. And they will admit with
Pleaſure every ferious Chriftian, who offers him-
felf, and is qualified to affift in it. Their ſtanding
Rules are publickly known, allowed to be good,
and faithfully obferved. They give the World a
yearly Account of their Succefs, with an Abſtract
of their Receipts and Diſburſements. They deli-
ver yearly the Particulars of them to the Lord Chan-
cellor and two chief Juftices. And they have
pro-
ceeded from the Beginning to this Day with great
Unanimity in all their Affairs.
It hath been pretended indeed, that immoral and
negligent Men are employed as Miffionaries. And
to ſay that this hath never once happen'd, would
be going too far. But that it hath frequently hap-
pen'd,
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
27
pen'd, or ever for want of due Care, is utterly
falfe. Strict Examination is made at firft into the
Characters of all that are offer'd; ftrict Enquiry
into their Behaviour afterwards: and exact Ac-
counts required from them twice a Year, of what
Duty they do, and what Progreſs they make.
The moſt earneft Requeſts, the moſt folemn Ad-,
jurations are ſent, that all who can, would give
any uſeful Intelligence relating to them: and great
Regard is always paid to fuch Intelligence: yet
very few Complaints are brought in, either from
good Will or bad. Too many, it muſt be owned,
of deſperate Fortunes and Characters, who are or
pretend to be in holy Orders, tranſport themſelves
into America, and behave there as it may be ex-
pected they will. But we have no Concern with
any, whofe Names are not feen in the publick
Lift of Perſons receiving Salaries from us. And
the larger the Number is of vicious Clergymen,
who go thither of their own Accord; the more is
the need of fending as many worthy ones as pof-
fible, to correct their Influence.
Were there Room indeed for making larger
Allowances, more Perfons of great Abilities might
be had. Were there better Opportunities for a
learned Education abroad, more of the Natives
of our Colonies would be fitted for the Work:
which they would undertake with many Advan
tages above fuch as go from hence.
Biſhops there, theſe Perfons might be ordained
And had they
D 2
without
28
A SERMON before the Society
without the Inconveniencies of a long Voyage:
Vacancies might be fupplied in much lefs Time:
the primitive and moſt uſeful Appointment of Con-
firmation might be reſtored; and 'an orderly Dif-
cipline exerciſed in the Churches. Nor would
fuch an Eſtabliſhment encroach at all on the pre-
ſent Rights of the Civil Government in our Colo-
nies; or bring their Dependance into any Degree
of that Danger, which fome Perfons profefs to
apprehend ſo ſtrongly on this Occafion, who
would make no manner of Scruple about doing-
other Things much more likely to deftroy it:
who are not terrified in the leaſt, that fuch Num-
bers there reject the Epifcopal Order entirely: nor
perhaps would be greatly alarmed, were ever fo
many to reject Religion itſelf: though evidently in
Proportion as either is thrown off, all Dependance
produced by it ceafes of Courſe. To this equally
pious and harmleſs Defign, two great Prelates,
now deceaſed, gave a thouſand Pounds each: and
a Lady, incomparably more eminent for her Vir-
tues, than her Quality, bequeathed the Sum of
five hundred Pounds laft Year to the fame Purpoſe:
which God incline the Hearts of all, in whoſe
Power it is, to promote as it deſerves! But in the
mean time, let it not be imagined, that the Diffi-
culties we labour under are too heavy to be over-
come.
*Archbishop Tenifon, and Sir Jonathan Trelawney, Biſhop of
Winchefter.
† Lady Elizabeth Haſtings.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
29
come.
Difficulties are Arguments for nothing,
but more Zeal and more Liberality. For if we
ſtop, till we have every Thing that might be wiſh-
ed, When ſhall we go on?
Another Objection to the Conduct of the Socie-
ty is, that they have fent Miffionaries to fome
Places, in which there were already Chriftian
Affemblies eſtabliſhed and ſupported. But in one
Sort of theſe Affemblies, there is no Chriftian Mi-
niſtry, no Celebration of the Sacraments of the
Gofpel. In another, Infants are denied the Sacra-
ment of Baptiſm. And in the leaft exceptionable,
there are feveral Things, which the Confciences of
many, we apprehend with great Reaſon, cannot
acquiefce in; who were not therefore to be left de-
ftitute of publick Worſhip: eſpecially as our Char-
ter was granted, in exprefs Terms, for the Main-
tenance of an Orthodox Clergy in thofe Parts. And
the Members of this Church, I am forry to ſay it,
lying under peculiar Burdens in one confiderable
Province, which other Profeffors of Chriftianity
do not, though equally Diffenters from the Majo-
rity there; they ſeem of Right entitled to fome
peculiar Affiſtance in return. We have obtruded
the
* In New England They are rated to the Support of what the
Independents, who are the greater Part of that People, call, though
without Right, the Eſtabliſhed Church. And the Goods of many
have been ſeized, or their Bodies impriſoned, for Non-payment.
The Anabaptifts, on their Petition, were exempted from paying
this Rate; and the Quakers, without petitioning, but the Petition
of the Members of our Church was rejected.
30
A SERMON before the Society
the Service of the Church of England no where:
we have fettled no Clergyman any where, without
the Inhabitants requeſting it, and contributing to
it: we have fent no Succeffor upon a Vacancy,
without their renewing that Requeſt. But if the
Provifion, which we have made for the People of
our own Communion, hath proved inftrumental
at the fame Time to bring others over into it: we
hope there is very far from being any Harm done.
Indeed Unity of Profeffion amongst ourſelves,
effected by Methods of Peace and Charity, will
greatly recommend our Religion to the Infidels:
who elſe may be tempted to continue as they are,
for want of knowing with whom to join.
We acknowledge it, whoever is taught Chriſtia-
nity by our Care, will be taught it as profeffed in
the Church eſtabliſhed here by Law. There can
be no Teaching at all, but in ſome particular Form.
We think our own the beſt. Every body thinks
it far from the worst. At leaſt our Converts will
have the Bible put into their Hands, to judge for
Themſelves. And Which is righter, that Heathens
and Perfons of no Religion fhould continue what
they are, or become what we would make them?
The Society we are engaged in, is the only one for
this Purpoſe. And were it now to be erected, in-
ſtead of having ſubſiſted ſo long: not a fingle Step
could be taken on any other footing than this; that
the ſmaller Part of thofe who wiſhed well to it,
muſt be concluded by the greater.
Sa
1
31
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
So good a Deſign therefore being ſo properly
executed; the Expences, which must attend it,
ought to be ſupplied. The Lord hath ordained,
that they who preach the Gospel, fhould live of the
Gospel. And there is the fame Reaſon, the fame
Neceffity indeed, that the Miffionaries in America
ſhould have due Provifion made for them, as that
the Apoſtles ſhould at firft, or the Minifters of our
Pariſhes now. And if Perfons of Character, be-
ing at Liberty, as they are, to exerciſe their Fun-
Єtion elſewhere, are willing to undertake furch an
Employment as this, at fuch a Diſtance, on ſo
ſmall an Allowance as they receive from the So-
ciety: they ought ſurely to have it raiſed for them
very chearfully, and be counted worthy of double Ho-
nour, in the Senfe of Recompence as well as
Eſteem, if it could be paid them.
P
But perhaps it will be faid, Supporting Deſigns
of this Nature is the Clergy's Buſineſs: let Them
take care of it. And fo, God be thanked, we do:
and fo, I hope in God, we fhall, whether we are
helped in it more or lefs; in fuch manner, as
both to keep pace with the Willing, and make
amends for the Unwilling. We defire not to boaſt,
and we need not to be afhamed, of the Proportion
which we contribute. But we may notwithſtand-
ing do very well to increaſe it. For there is fo
much expected of us, and we are fo greatly con-
cerned to anſwer every reafonable Expectation to
the
I 1 Cor. ix. 14.
P 1 Tim. v. 17.
1
32
A SERMON before the Society
1
the utmoft; that if any of our Order have omitted
taking ſufficient Notice of a Charity fo immediate-
ly related to their Profeffion, it is their Duty on
many Accounts, to make full Compenfation to it
without Delay. It is indeed our Duty, on every
Occafion, at all Times, but efpecially in an Age
when no Part of our Conduct will be interpreted
favourably, to avoid all Appearance, either of pre-
ferring Riches in this World before being rich in
good Works, or of loving Pleafures more than Gods
St. Paul took Wages of fome Churches to do others
Services Let Us, out of the Wages which We
take, do all the Service we can to the Church of
God; and diftribute largely to the Neceffities of the
Saints, particularly their ſpiritual ones.
q
u
But is the Support of this Defign incumbent on
the Clergy alone? Did not the Laity originally
maintain the Apoſtles in their Travels? And ought
they not ſtill to be equally zealous, that the Word
of the Lord may have free Courſe, and be glorified?
Do they not know, how very inconfiderable the
Benefices of far the greateſt Part of the Clergy are;
what Hoſpitality is required of the rest of us; and
how large Demands are continually made upon us
for Charities of various Kinds: to the Poor of our
'Pariſhes and Neighbourhoods, of our Brethren,
their Widows and Orphans; to every pious and
compaffionate Ufe, publick or private? And are
91 Tim. vi. 17, 18.
• Rom. xii. 13.
they
S
s 2 Cor. xi. 8.
12 Tim. iii.
4.
u 2 Theff. iii. 1.
J
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
33
they not ſenſible alfo, that were We ever ſo defici-.
ent, this excufes not Them: that every Man's Du-
ty is, not to guard againſt doing more Good than
comes to his Share, but to do willingly what he
can; and that each one's Reward fhall be in Pro-
portion to his Work?
Whoever therefore finds himſelf difpofed to make
Objections, let him examine, what is at the bot-
tom of them: Whether it be not really Difregard
to Religion, or Want of Humanity; fome ground-
lefs Prejudice, or ſome wrong Attachment to Self-
Intereft or Self-Gratification. If fo, let him firſt
plant the Goſpel in his own. Heart: and all his
Pleas againſt contributing to the Propagation of it,
will foon vaniſh.
*
Every Man's Charities indeed ought to be left to
his own Choice. But fo many, even of thoſe who
are bountiful in other Ways, neglect pious Ufes al-
moſt entirely, that good Perfons have both Op-
portunity and Reafon for allotting to Theſe a large
Proportion of their Beneficence. And amongſt
thefe, as That now under Confideration is of too
extenfive a Nature to be throughly comprehended
by every one, and at too great a Diſtance to make
any ftrong Impreffion on the Generality of the
World; they who do form juft Conceptions of it,
fhould, in proportion to the Smallnefs of their
Number, be the more liberal to it: as in truth
there is need. The only certain Income we have,
is a Trifle: not fixty Pounds a Year. The volun-
E
tary
•
34
A SERMON before the Society
tary Subſcriptions, though they are ten times greater,
are not a fifth Part of the annual Expence. Hi-
therto therefore almoſt all hath depended on occa-
fional Gifts which, after finking much lower
than they were formerly, for fome few Years in-
creafed again. On this Encouragement, the So-
ciety, importuned continually for new Miffiona-
ries, with an Earneftneſs which nothing but Ne-
ceffity could juſtify refifting, made a great Addi-
tion to their Number. And had the Contributi-
ons of this laſt Year rifen much above the preceding
ones, it had been but too eaſy to have diſpoſed of
them all. But on the contrary, though one noble
Benefaction, of a thouſand Pounds, hath been gi-
ven, † to be employed for the Converfion of the
Negros; yet thofe to the other Parts of our Deſign
have fallen very ſhort: and a heavy Debt hath been
of confequence incurred. This may poffibly re-
duce us to afk Affiftance, in a Method, which,
though authorized, we have feldom made ufe of:
being defirous that he who fheweth Mercy, might
appear to do it with Chearfulness,w and not con-
ftrained by Sollicitations. But in whatever man-
ner Application is made to Perfons, we truft the
fame God, who hath provided for us wonderfully
thus long, will now alfo difpofe their Hearts to
confider, that on Them it depends, whether fuch
a Deſign, ſo far advanced, through ſo many Diffi-
culties,
+ By Mr. Batt of Hampfire.
* Rom. xii. 8.
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
35
culties, fhall be carried on ftill, and gain ground
continually, as it eaſily may; or whether it fhall
fall back, and fink into Nothing, with
very little
Hope of being ever revived: That he will move
wife Men to think, what the publick Intereft re-
quires of them; and benevolent Perfons, to regard
the private Happineſs of their Fellow-Creatures:
true Chriſtians, to fupport and enlarge the King-
dom of their Maſter with Zeal; true Proteftants,
to filence effectually the Boafts and Reproaches of
the Romanifts on this Head; and all true Friends
of our Religious Eſtabliſhment, to endeavour, that
it may gain as honourable a Pre-eminence as poffi-
ble, over the rest of the Reformed Churches, in fo
good a Work.
Perfons in plentiful Circumſtances, and perhaps
at a loſs for Ways in which they may give Alms,
will here find one undoubtedly proper Way. And
Perfons in Arrear to Religion and Charity, have an
excellent Opportunity offer'd them, of paying the
Debt. They who plead the multitude of other
Expences, might, a very great Part of them, by
withdrawing but a little of what they ought from
their Luxury and Vanity, qualify themſelves for
Liberalities, which will turn hereafter to a much
better Account. And fuch as make the Increaſe
of Taxes their Excufe, ought to confider, that as
Providence hath brought that Increaſe upon us, by
permitting us to fuffer ſo much from our Enemies,
in that Part of the World, where we have done ſo
little
E 2
36
A SERMON before the Society
little for God; efpoufing His Caufe is the likelieft
Method of deriving a Bleffing on our Own: and if
we neglect it, whatever may befall us there, we
muſt impute to ourſelves. We enjoy very great
Advantages from thence: the Government, large
Revenues; the Nation in general, a moſt benefici-
al Trade; every one of us, fomething or another,
uſeful or agreeable in Life. It is therefore our
common Concern, both to do Good where we
have received it; and to do it in fuch manner, as
may beſt ſecure our continuing to receive it. But
they more eſpecially, who are now raifing Fortunes
by Commerce with our American Settlements, or
who poffefs acquired or hereditary Eſtates, of which
that Commerce laid the Foundation, they ſhould
think often, how much hath accrued to them from
the Produce of theſe Colonies, the Country of theſe
Indians, the Labour of theſe Negros; and reflect
very ſeriouſly, what Returns, poffibly Juſtice, at
leaſt Gratitude, and in many Cafes Prudence alſo,
as well as Piety, direct them to make.
:
•
Some perhaps may approve one Part of this Un-
dertaking beyond the reſt: and whatever they give,
will be applied, if they defire it, to that alone.
Some may be unwilling to let their Benefactions
appear and fuch may with Eafe tranfmit them
privately: the Donation will be acknowledged, the
Donor unknown. But though Charity given in
fecret, from a Principle of Humanity, be laudable
in the higheſt Degree; yet when the Motive is
Fear.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
37
+
Fear of Ridicule or Cenfure from a profane Age,
this argues a Weakneſs of Mind, very dangerous
to thoſe who are influenced by it, and very preju-
dicial to Religion: which cannot have a more fea-
fonable Service done it, than if all Perfons indeed,
eſpecially of Rank and Influence, who inwardly
wiſh well to it, would openly patronize the feve-
ral Defigns formed to promote it.
The Deſign now before us, both deſerves and
requires a general Co-operation, to produce its
complete Effect: That they who are able, ſhould
contribute to it, in proportion to their Ability; and
they who are not, fpeak well of it, and pray for
it that we of the Society fhould be vigilant and
active, prudent and impartial in our Adminiſtrati-
on: that Perſons in Authority abroad ſhould coun-
tenance and protect the Work; for in their Power
it is, to forward or obftruct it very greatly: that
the People in general there, fhould not only be
willing to let all under them and around them par-
take of the Grace of Life, but earneſtly invite them
to it, with Meekneſs of Wiſdom, and by the moſt
prevalent of Arguments, a good Conversation. But
beyond the reft it is neceffary for every one con-
cerned in the immediate Execution of the Deſign,
always to remember, that bad as it is in other
Teachers of the Goſpel to behave in a manner un-
worthy of their Profeffion, it will be yet worſe in
Them, if they take an uncommon Character up-
x
1 Pet. iii. 7.
X
y James iii. 13.
on
38
A SERMON before, &c.
on themſelves, only to diſhonour it; and compass
Sea and Land, with no other Effect, than to make
God's Name be blafphemed amongst the Gentiles:
that They ought with peculiar Diligence to follow
Righteoufness, Faith, Charity, Peace; holding faft
the faithful Word, as they have been taught, that
they may be able, by found Doctrine, both to exhort
and convince the Gainfayers;c. that they ought to be
inftant, in ſeaſon, out of feafon; to watch, endure
Afflictions, and make full Proof of their Miniftry,d
Shewing themselves in all things Patterns of good
Works.
Theſe then are our feveral Duties: and great
will be our Reward for performing them. Let us
all therefore, each in his Station, arife and be doing:
and the Lord be with us.f
z Matth. xxiii. 15. a Rom. ii. 24.
c Tit. i. 9.
h
2
Tim. ii. 22.
d2 Tim. iv. 2, 5. • Tit. ii. 7. ↑ Chr. xxii. 16.
FINIS
!
3
+
t
ERRAT. P. 24. 1. 28. for engaged x. enlarged.
+
}
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SoCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gofpel
in Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Pariſh-Church of St. MARY-LE-BOW,
On FRIDAY, February 19, 1741-2.
By HENRY STEBBING, D. D
Chaplain in Ordinary to His Majefty, and
Chancellor of Sarum.
LOND 0 N:
Printed by E. OWEN, and Sold by J. ROBERTS
in Warwick-Lane.
MDCC XLII.
2
W
>
1
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the Society
for the Propagation of the Goſpel in
Foreign Parts, in the Veftry-Room of
St. Mary-le-Bow, on Friday the 19th
Day of February 1741-2.
A Greed, That the Thanks of the
SOCIETY be given to the Reve-
rend Dr. Stebbing Chancellor of Sarum,
for his Sermon preached this Day before
the SOCIETY; and that he be defired
to deliver a Copy thereof to be printed..
Philip Bearcroft Secretary.
it
#
MARK XVI. 20.
And they went forth, and preached every
where, the Lord working with them,
and confirming the Word with Signs
following.
W
げぇ
​HEN our Saviour, at the 15th Verſe
of this Chapter had given his Apo-
ftles a general Commiffion, to go
into all the World, and preach the
Gofpel to every Creature; he acquaints them at
the 17th and 18th with the Means, by which
they ſhould be enabled to execute it. Thefe Signs
fhall follow them that believe; in my Name ſhall
they caft out Devils; they ſhall ſpeak with new
Tongues; they shall take up Serpents, and if they
drink any deadly thing, it ſhall not hurt them; they
fball lay Hands on the Sick, and they shall recover.
The Text tells us of the fulfilling of this Pro-
mife. So then after the Lord bad ſpoken unto them,
he was received up into Heaven, and fat on the
right Hand of God; And they went forth, and
preached every where; the Lord working with them,
and confirming the Word with Signs following.
$
We fee therefore the Method, by which the
'Goſpel was at firft eſtabliſhed in the World.
Not by human Strength, or Skill, but by the
A 2
Power
3
4
A SERMON before the Society
Power of God, manifefting itſelf by Signs, and
Wonders wrought in. Confirmation of the Word.
My Deſign is to fhew, in what refpects the Power
of Miracles was neceffary to fupport the Gofpel
at firft; and wherein lay its force, and vertue to
make the preaching of the Apoſtles, effectual to
reform a World throughout over-run with Blind-
nefs, and Corruption. And when this Point is
rightly understood, we fhall the more clearly per-
ceive the Reaſons, why this Power is long fince
ceaſed, and, what human Means are moft likely
(fo far as human Means can go) to fupply the
Want of it, in perpetuating the Goſpel to future:
Ages; and making it to be, what it was intend
ed to be, a Means of Reformation in all, who
accept, and embrace it.
The Goſpel is the Call of God upon Man-
kind to Repentance, by the Offers of Mercy in,
and thro' Jefus the Redeemer. In which Account
there are two Things evidently diſtinguiſhable,
viz. 1. The Doctrine of our Redemption by
Chriſt, which was propofed to Mankind by the
Preaching of the Apoſtles. 2. The ultimate End
of this, the Repentance of Sinners. With re-
ſpect to the First, it is manifeft, that Miracles
were neceffary in the Nature of Evidence; for
fupernatural Truths require fupernatural Proof:
God alone could declare by fome Special Mani-
feftation of himſelf, that it was his Purpofe to
redeem us by his Son, and upon what Terms his
Mediation
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
5
Mediation ſhould be available on our Behalf;
for nothing of all this appeared, from what was
known of God, and of the Meafures of his Pro-
vidence, from thofe general Notices, which he
had given to mankind by natural Reaſon. Chrift
therefore, and his Apoftles came in the Quality
of special Meſſengers from God, and pleaded the
Authority of God, of which the Miracles which
they wrought, were the Credentials, and without
which they could have challenged no fort of At-
tention from the World, as to fuch Matters as
thefe. This needs no farther Proof. But it may
well deſerve our Confideration to know, what
Relation the Power of Miracles bore to the fecond
Point, and whether it was, or was not of any
direct Ufe, towards refcuing Mankind from the
Dominion of Sin, and bringing them to Repen-
tance, and a new Life.
Now it is evident in the firſt Place, that Mi-
racles were not neceffary in the Way of Evidence
to fhew Men their Duties, as, in the other Cafe
they were neceffary to fhew them their Faith.
For there wants not the Evidence of Miracles to
prove, that God is to be honoured by his Crea-
tures; that Men are to be Juft, Sober, Temperate,
and the like; Theſe are the Dictates of that
Law, which every Man reads in his own Breaſt,
fuppofing Reaſon to be rightly exerciſed. All rea-
fonable Men have feen thefe Things; all reafon-
able Men do, and muſt ſee them; nor is it in the
Power
A 3
6
A SERMON before the Society
Power of fupernatural Evidence to make them
plainer.
J
But when Men know their Duties, fomething
farther will be neceffary to influence their Prac-
tice. And in this refpect Miracles, I apprehend,
were of great Ufe, as they were a Means to
controll Appetite, which is the Inlet to all Mif-
chief, and firſt of all perverts the Will, and then
corrupts the Underſtanding. St. Paul ſpeaking of
the unbelieving 'Gentiles fays, that they had their
Understanding darkened, through the Ignorance,
that was in them, becaufe of the Hardness of their
Hearts. And whence came this? Why from the
Power of fleſhly Appetite. For (as it prefently
follows) they had given themselves over unto Laf
civiousness, to work all Uncleanness with greediness,
Eph. iv. 18, 19. This was the general Caufe of
Corruption in the Heathen World. Attending
(like Brutes) to the Things before them, and not
having God in all their Thoughts, they funk below
themſelves, and were filled with all Unrighteouf
nefs, till at last they became, as vain in their Ima-
ginations, as they were wicked in their Works,
and changed the Glory of the uncorruptible God,
into an Image made like to corruptible Man, and
to Birds, and four footed Beafts, and creeping Things,
Rom. i. 23. It is evident from theſe Words, that
the fingle Thing wanting to enlighten the Under-
ftanding, was to reform the Heart; and that to this
End nothing more was neceffary, than to awaken
them
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7
1
them into a true Senfe of God, whom they had
well nigh forgotten. And what was fo proper
to effect this, as fuch vifible Inftances of his Power,
and Preſence among them, as Miracles were?
When Paul (with Barnabas) had cured the Lame
Man at Lyftra, the People no fooner faw the
Work, than they cryed out, The Gods are come
down to us in the Likeness of Men; obfervé now
the Effects of this Perfwafion. They brought
Oxen, and Garlands, and would have done Sacrifice;
and by all that Paul, and Barnabas could fay,
ficarce were they reftrained, Acts xiv. 11, &c. Their
Devotion was ill placed, but no doubt it was
fincere; for when God is prefent, 'how ſhall not
finful Man be afraid? "Tis true, God is prefent
every where, and at all Times, by the Works of
his Providence. The Sun, which warms, and
enlightens the Earth; The Moon, and the Stars
which garnish the Heavens; The Rain, and the
fruitful Seafons; Ourſelves, and all, that we fee
about us, are the Heralds, which proclaim his
Power, and Prefence among us. And when we
fee the Power of God, we fee all, that is to be
feen of him, for he is a Spirit, and we cannot
fee him otherwife, than by his Power, and Opera-
tions. Why then does not this make us fearful
to offend? Why it ought to do ſo, and will do fo,
if Men are wife, and confiderate. But careleſs
Men overlook thefe Things, becauſe they are
common, and familiar; like idle, and unfaithful
Servants,
}
1
8
A SERMON before the Society
-
Servants, who, tho' they know their Place in the
Family, and what the Mafter expects from them,
yet neglect their Bufinefs, and will never be
brought to order, till by fome Special Act of his
Authority the Mafter gives them to underſtand,
that he takes Notice of and will punish their
ill Behaviour. Miracles have the Nature of a
Special Call; and all Men, who fee: the Hand of
God in the Works, will naturally underſtand
themſelves, as admonished to take Notice of them
at their Perils; which is the Meaning of what
St. Paul ſays, Acts xvii. 30. And the Times of this
Ignorance God winked at, but now commandeth all
Men every
where to repent. God is faid to have
winked at thoſe Times of Ignorance, not becauſe
he at any Time approved, or was pleased with the
Vices, and the Follies of Mankind; but he
winked, as a Maſter doth, when he will not hear
the Faults of his Servant, whom for Reaſons of
Prudence he does not think fit to rebuke. But
God's Call by the Gofpel was a Rebuke to Sin-
ners, and Miracles were the Evidence of it, juft
as the ordinary Works of Nature are the Evi-
dence of that general Authority, which he chal-
lengeth over us, as the Creator, and Governor of
the World.
You fee then, that Miracles were an Applica-
tion to the Fears of Men as under the special
Notice of God, and liable to his Correction; in
which there was great Wiſdom as well as Good-
nefs
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
nefs. For when Reafon has loft its Sway (which
was the Cafe here) there is but one Way left to
govern Men, which is by fetting Paffion againſt
Paffion, the Stronger against the Weaker, which
Experience fhews us, will do in many Cafes,
where nothing elfe will. Covetoufnefs will make
a fottiſh Man ſober, and temperate; and Pride
the Niggard open, and generous. But Fear is a
Paffion of univerfal Extent, and the Fear of God
is the Strongeſt of all Fears; and where it takes
deep rooting, will undermine, and overturn every
ftrong hold of Sin. For it is the Fear of infi-
nite Wiſdom, and of infinite Power; the Fear of
him, who perfectly underſtandeth, what we are;
who ſcanneth all our ways, and feeth all our
backflidings, and is able to puniſh us for ever.
It was this, that gave the Apoftles the Advan-
tage over the beft, and wifeft of the Heathen
Philofophers. Socrates and Plato were good Mo-
ralifts, and fo were many more. They could
fhew Men, what is Right, and what is Wrong,
and for the moſt Part fo they did. But they
could not ſhake Terror over the Heads of Sinners,
nor bring God, as it were down from Heaven, to
give his Sanction to their Inſtructions. This was
the great Thing wanting; and if God had not
thought fit thus to interpofe, the whole World
would have lain under Darkneſs to this Day. But
you will obferve, that this Method ufeful, and
neceffary, as it was in its Time, and Seafon, was
B
not
ΙΟ
A SERMON before the Society
mon,
ji
not in the very Nature of it fit to be made com-
and familiar. Miracles are proper for great
Emergencies, when the Ends of Providence, and
the Wants of Men cannot be ferved by common
Means. But when thefe Purpoſes are anfwered,.
the World must be left again to common means;
for a wife Providence can do nothing Superfluous,.
nothing in Vain. And this was, and is the Caſe
in Fact. For when God withdrew the Power of
Miracles from the Church (which he foon did)
this was leaving Religion to be carried on by
human Means; And this must be understood, as
a Call upon Mankind, to fet forward the Work:
of Religion, by the reaſonable, and proper Me-
thods of human Skill, and Wifdom. For you
will not fay, I prefume, that it was the Intention
of Providence, that when Miracles ceafed, there
fhould be an End of Religion too. It will be
fit therefore to confider, what are thofe reafon-
able Methods of carrying on Religion, to which
human Prudence directs us. The Subject is of
large Extent, and therefore I fhall only touch
upon a few general Points.
As a Foundation for all then let it be obferved,
1. That the Chriftian Practice is fupported by
the Chriftian Faith; and that as the Miracles
wrought by Chrift, and his Apoftles are the
Ground-work of our Faith; fo there ought al-
ways to be a reafonable Evidence conſtantly ſub-
fifting, and publickly known, that fuch Miracles
were
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
II
were wrought. For if we cannot fhew, that
Chriſt, and his Apoftles wrought Miracles, we
cannot prove their Miffion from God; and Faith
will have nothing, whereupon to reſt. But this
the Providence of God hath taken Care of for
us, by providing us with the Scriptures, which
are a credible Evidence to us, as they will be to
all fucceeding Generations of Men, that the
Chriſtian Faith was once confirmed by Miracles;
which is as good a Proof of Chrift's Miffion, as
a Series of Miracles perpetually fubfifting in the
Church would have been; for what God once
confirms to us, by fetting to it the Seal of his
Authority, may as fecurely be relied on, as what
is fo confirmed to us a Hundred, or a Thouſand
Times over. The Scriptures, as to their Origin,
and Authority, are Divine. But in the Uſe of
them we are left to human Skill, and Prudence:
And what has the Wiſdom of the Church of
Rome directed her to in this Cafe? Why not to
fend Men to the Scriptures for Inftruction, but
to deny the Uſe of them, which in effect is ta-
king from them the proper Evidences of their
Faith, and leaving their whole Religion, as Chri-
tians to reft, not upon the Authority of God,
but upon the Authority of Men.
And this is
fo much the Worfe, becauſe the Scriptures are
the Standard of our Faith, as well as the Evi-
dence of it. For the new Teftament is not a
mere Hiftory of Miracles, but a Syftem of Doc-
}
B 2
trines ;
I 2
A SERMON before the Society.
>
trines; thoſe very Doctrines, which Chriſt taught,
and in Confirmation of which God gave the Evi-
dence of Miracles. Were it not for this Provi-
fion, we ſhould by this Time have been at a Lofs
to know, as well what to believe, as why to be-
lieve; but Faith built, upon, this Foundation is
both fure, and stedfaft; not, as if the Scriptures
were an infallible Means, to bring Men, to a right
Faith. God is infallible, and what he fays in
his Word must be true; but Men are fallible, and
may think, they read there, what he hath not
faid; or thro' a carnal Mind obtrude that upon
others, as the Scripture Faith, which they do not
believe themſelves. No Means can infallibly at-
tain its End, where much is left (as much in this
cafe always muſt be left) to depend upon the
Tempers, and Difpofitions of Men. Even in the
Apoftles Times Men arofe, who pake perverſe
Things; and if this was the Cafe under living Wit-
neffes, how fhall a dead Evidence avail more? The
Scriptures will make us wife to Salvation, if we
ufe them wifely; but weak Men máy mif-inter-
pret them, and bad ones may pervert them, as
they have ever done, and as they ſtill do to this
Day. But to prevent Miſchiefs of this Sort, fo
far as humån Aids could go, it was,
}
•
2. That Chriſt hath appointed a ſtanding Mi-
niſtry in his Church; fettled at firft by divine
Direction, but left afterwards (as all other Mat-
ters relating to the Government of the Church
3
were
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
¡
were left) to be conducted by human Wiſdom.
And what fays common Prudence in this Caſe ?
Why, that the Work of the Miniſtry ſhould be
committed to the Hands of thoſe, and of thoſe
only, who are duly qualified for it. For St. Paul
ſpoke but the common Senfe of a Man, when he
faid to Timothy, the Things which thou haft. heard
of me- the fame commit thou to FAITHFUL Men
who shall be able to teach others alſo, 2 Tim. ii. 2.
In the Days of the Apoſtles the holy Spirit by his
extraordinary Illumination, fuperfeded all uſe of
human Accompliſhments; and whilft HE was
their Mouth, and their Wisdom all Inftruments were
alike. Learned, or unlearned could make no Dif-
ference; they were only faithfully to deliver, what
they had received. But now, that there is an End
of Inſpiration, and of all oral Inftruction from
infpired Men, and we have nothing to truſt to,
but the Records of the Doctrines, delivered by
them (which length of Time will naturally fub-
ject to Difficulties, and Diſputes) Learning, and
Skill are neceffary both to juſtify their Authority,
and to afcertain their Meaning; and if the Clergy
are not competently qualified for theſe Things,
how ſhall the People know better? But this is
not all. For
3. As Faith without Practice is nothing worth,
Care must be taken to bring Men to the Obe-
dience of the Gofpel. And here (befides the
Labour of the Clergy) the Laws of Civil Society
B 3
will
14
A SERMON before the Society
will have great force; both as they may help to
fet forward the Work of Inftruction, and be a
Curb upon fenfual Appetite, by which the beſt
Inftructions are oft-times made ineffectual. Chrift
indeed hath no where commanded the Civil Ma-
giſtrate to protect his Religion. There is this
Reaſon to fhew, that it was not proper for him
to give any fuch Inftructions; that for the greater
Confirmation of the Faith, the Wiſdom of God
had determined, that for fome Ages yet to come;
the Goſpel ſhould make its way not only without
the Aids of human Power, but against all the
Efforts of it. There is this to fhew, that fuch
Inſtructions were not neceffary, that when it
Should become feaſonable for the Civil Magiſtrate
to interpofe (that is, when the Power of the
World ſhould be converted unto Chrift) he would
immediately fall under the common Obligation,
which lies upon all Men to take Care of Reli-
gion; and that it is a Method, which human
Prudence would naturally fuggeft: For all Men
muſt fee, and feel, that Mankind, are not to be
kept right by mere dint of Argument, and Per-
fwafion. No Man fhould have a Religion forced
upon him, which he does not like; and yet,
yet, if
the whole fhould be left to the Ingenuity of our
Tempers, without any prefent Application to our
Hopes or to our Fears, every Thing would run
into Confufion. Our first Reformers were fenfiblè
of this, and therefore when they had cleared Re-
ligion
$
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
لم
ligion from the Rubbish of Popery, and had new
model'd our Church Polity, as near as might be
upon the primitive Plan, they fo wrapt it up in
our civil Conſtitution, as to make it every Man's
Intereft, as well as it was his Duty, to fubmit to
this new Settlement. The Event juftified the
Wiſdom of this proceeding. The Reformation
grew, and flouriſhed (not, in Appearance and out-
ward Profeffion only, but) in all the Power and
Vertue of Religion, whilft thro' the Protection,
and Encouragement of our Laws, our Youth
were trained up in found Principles, and the Ripe,
and the Aged were accuſtomed to a fober, de-
cent, and manly Worship. In the Times of Po-
pery Religion was made to reft in Forms, and
in Shadows: In telling of Beads, and in cold and
lifeless Repetitions of Prayers, and Maffes; in
croffings, and in ſprinklings; in ftated Confeffion,
and Abſolutions; in abſtaining from Meats, which
God hath fanctified; in renouncing Marriage,
which he hath honoured; in dreffing up Images,
and Shrines, and I know not what. Is there
now a Man of common Senfe among us, that
does not fee the Folly of thefe Things? Yes,
we are all of us enough convinced of the Cor-
ruptions of the Church of Rome; which is an
Evidence beyond all Contradiction, how much
human Authority rightly applied can do. But as
the very best Means are liable to be abufed. So
it hath happened in this Cafe. To expofe the
Errors,
16
A SERMON before the Society
Errors, and Abuſes of Popery, it was abfolutely
neceſſary to lay open the Scriptures to private Uſe
and to leave every Man to confider, and judge
for himſelf. And though all proper Care was
taken to direct private Judgment, yet, becauſe
no force was laid upon private Judgment, (as in-
deed there ought to be none) the Scriptures have
been made the Occafion of fetting up various
Syſtems of Religion, to the great Breach of Peace,
and Chriſtian Charity, and to the Difgrace of the
Goſpel itſelf. For many, obferving thefe eternal
wranglings about the Scriptures, began to pay lefs
Regard to them, and to have recourſe to natu-
ral Light, as to a furer Guide. And when once
Reaſon was treated, as the Sovereign Rule in all
Cafes, every Thing grew into Contempt, that
Reaſon could not fathom. It is thus, that the
great Myſtery of our Redemption by Chriſt has
been ftruck out of our Creed by Men pretending
to be Wife. Thus, that Chriſtianity in the Grofs
has been traduced as a Fraud, (Pious at beft) by
Men pretending to be yet wifer; who faw (or
thought they faw) that there could be no ufe of
Revelation, when natural Light was to all Intents,
and Purpoſes fufficient without it.
By fuch Steps have thoſe Means, by which
Providence intended to reſtore Chriſtianity, ferved,
as Inſtruments to turn Chriſtianity out of Doors
the Confequence of which hath been, a Diſ-
regard to all publick Rule and Order in Religion;
neglect
;
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
neglect of God's publick Worſhip: Profanation
of the Sacrament, and all holy Seafons; which,
inſtead of mending the Morals of Mankind (as
fome have vainly boafted) has introduced a ge-
neral Decay of Vertue, and common Honefty.
How ſhould it otherwiſe be? When Men believe
Chriſtianity, and are ferious in the Profeffion of
it, they have a Rule of Life before them, which
(howfoever they may differ, as to fome doctrinal
Points) they cannot miftake; and are under con-
Atant Calls, and Admonitions to Vertue. They
cannot receive the holy Sacrament; they cannot
joyn in publick Worſhip; they cannot hear, or
read God's Word, and not meet with thoſe Checks,
and Rebukes, that will touch the Confcience, and
put them upon fome ferious Reflexions. But
when they remove themſelves out of the Way
of theſe Helps, they quickly grow careless, and
forgetful; and when they become bad in Prac-
tice, they grow bad upon Principle too, their Rea-
fons bending, and giving way to their corrupt
Inclinations, and glorying over the moſt crimi-
nal Actions, to make them paſs for innocent, and
harmlefs Things. All we are to infer from hence
is, that human Means have their certain Periods,
beyond which they cannot go. Miracles were
neceſſary at firſt to plant Chriſtianity in the World;
and whether at fome Time, or other, they may
not be again as neceffary to re-eſtabliſh, and purge
it from it Corruptions, is a Point, we must leave
C
کی
to
1 &
before the Society
A SERMON *
.
to the unfearchable. Wifdom of God. In the
mean Time it lies upon us all to be doing our
beft, by an honeft Ufe of the Means ftill left ins
our Power, which I fhall now beg leave to prefs
upon you with a particular View to the Occafion
of our preſent Meeting; the Support of a Cha-
rity, which wants nothing elfe, but to be rightly
underſtood, to recommend. it to all ferious Chri
ftians.
When fome Men hear of Propagating the Gof
pel in Foreign Parts, they are apt to think of no-
thing elfe, but converting Heathen Nations to the
Chriſtian Faith; which they look upon, as a
Thing quite impracticable by mere human Means-::
And they, who, thus think,, and judge, can have
no favourable Opinion of this Charity. But who-
ever looks into our Charter, will find, that the
firft and principal End of this Corporation is, not
to plant Chriſtianity among Heathens, but, to
reftore, or to preferve it among Chriftians: A-
mong thofe of our own People, who went from
us in Poffeffion of the Chriſtian Faith, but left it
or who, yet having it, are in Danger of loofing
it through the Want of God's Word, and Sacra-
ments; without the regular Adminiſtration of
which, Experience hath fhewn, and always will
fhew, that Chriftianity. cannot long ftand its
Ground. The converting Heathens, is a fecondary,
incidental Point. For fuppofe, that our Colonies
had ſettled in fome uninhabited Ifland, they would
4
then
for the Propagation of the Goſpel.
19
then have had nothing to do with Heathens.
And yet it would have been juft as neceffary,
that they should have had the Adminiſtration of
the Word and Sacraments, the cuftomary Dif
ufe of which, will make Men Heathen, whether
planted in Heathen Countries, or not.
The firft and principal End therefore of this
Society, wants not the Aid of Miracles, but ma-
nifeftly falls within the Reach of human Means,
from which we may reaſonably expect the fame
Succefs, that we have experienced among our-
felves. Countries, and Climates make no diffe-
rence in this Cafe. But as the Cafe in Fact is,
that our Colonies are fettled in Heathen Coun-
tries; it is not at all unlikely, that if we can pre-
ferve Religion among our own People, many of
the Heathens will be the better for it. Of a ge-
neral Converfion of the native Indians I fee no
great likelihood at prefent. If this is to be done
by human Means, there must be the neceffary
Preparations for human Means to operate. They
muſt be poliſhed into good Manners; there muſt
be fome common intercourfe between us; we
muſt bring them to fome good liking of our
Laws, and Cuſtoms. All this is neceſſary, where
the Power of Miracles is wanting; and when, or
whether ever it will be done, God only knows.
But our Negroe Slaves are within our Authority;
Branches, as it were, of our Families; many of
them born, and bred up among us; and theſe
C 2
may
20.
A SERMON before the Society
1
*
may be taught our Religion, as eafily as they
may be taught any Thing elfe, if proper Care
be taken to inſtruct them. The Society hath not
been wanting (nor would it become them to be
wanting) in their Endeavours, as to thefe; no,
nor with reſpect to the native Indians, fo far as
they have found it practicable. It was in the
Infancy of this Society that an Attempt was
made to plant Chriftianity among the Mohock
Indians. This generous and truly Chriſtian De-
fign met with Interruptions, from Caufes which
I need not particularly to relate; but the Iffue is,
that there is now a regular, fober Congregation
there of Five hundred Chriftian Indians, and a
daily. Increaſe of Vertue and good Manners a-
mong them. This is a Thing, by no Means to
be deſpiſed. How know we, but thefe fmall be-
ginnings may be the Foundation of fome great
Work to be accompliſhed in God's due Seafon?
But as I have already faid, the Care of this
Society chiefly concerns our own People; to fe-
cure them from falling into Irreligion, or (as the
Charter farther fuggefts) to guard them againft
the Attempts of Popiſh Priefts, who will teach
them Religion indeed, but not fuch a Religion, as
every good Subject would wish them to have. If
you ask; Why do not our Colonies maintain
Minifters at their own Expence? the Anſwer is,
that in many Places, fo they do; and if they do
it not every where, the Reaſon is, becauſe in
many
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
21
→
(
}
many Places they are not able. It would be
Injuftice to our Brethren beyond the Seas, to fup-
pofe, that they fo depend upon this Society for
the Means of carrying on the Work of Religion
in thoſe Parts, as to be willing to be at no Ex-
pence themſelves. Their Churches are generally
built by Contributions among themfelves. Sala-
ries are appointed for Miniſters by publick Con-
fent, and Authority where it can be done. Where
it cannot, they muſt be beholden to private Cha-
rity, and thoſe of them, who have Abilities, have
done, and ſtill do confiderably in this Way alſo.
Or fuppofe, that there is a Backwardnefs in
many, to do what might reaſonably be expect-
ed from them; it is no more than what is com-
mon; and I hope, that want of Charity in fome,
is no good Argument for a like Conduct in
others. We do not thus judge in Matters, which
concern ourſelves. And why fhould diſtance of
Place make us forget, that we are Children of
the fame God, and Father; Servants of the fame
Lord, and Saviour; Members of the fame Com-
munity, to whofe Wealth, and Grandeur our
Colonies Abroad, are none of the leaft Contri-
butors? Their Proſperity is our Profperity; their
Riches are our Gain; and will be fo, as long as
we can maintain a good Underftanding with
them: And what will fo much help to preferve
a good Underſtanding, and to keep us Friends,
C 3
as
E...
A SERMON before the Society
as this, that we are held together by the fame
Religion, and Laws.
+
•
-
I will not uſe many Arguments to fhew you
the extenfive Ufe, and Excellency of this Cha-
rity; and how much it becomes us, as Chriftians
to ſupport, and encourage it. This has been done
to fo much Advantage by many, that have gone
before me, and particularly by the Right Reve-
rend Prelate, who ſpoke laſt on this Occafion,
that there is little Choice of Matter left on this
Head. I would rather obferve (what our Circum-
ftances at this Time make in a more efpecial
Manner worthy of our Notice) that as in other
Charities, the Supplies are feldom adequate to the
Wants, that call for them, fo it hath happened,
in a remarkable Degree, to this Society. We
have now been a Corporation about Forty Years.
Our Beginnings were but fmall; and it is much.
more by caſual Supplies, than by any certain Fund,
that we ftill fubfift. The Salaries paid to our
Miffionaries are far from liberal: Generally Fifty;
to fome few, Sixty; to none more than Seventy
Pounds a Year. A fmall Reward for a laborious,
and perilous Miniſtry! And yet notwithſtanding
this frugal Management, the Call for Minifters
hath always exceeded our Abilities to provide.
for them out of our ftanding Income; by which
means confiderable Debts have been contracted
by the Society, whenever their Chriftian Com-
paffion, moved by great, and frequent Importu-
nities,
1
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
23
nities, hath prevailed upon them to go beyond
their Bounds, and cafual Benefactions have not
come in to make up the Deficiency. Thrice
before, have we applied to the Crown on fuch
Occafions to obtain the Royal Licence to make
Collections more, or lefs extenfive, as our Needs
have been more, or lefs urgent. We have now
lately obtained a like Permiffion from our prefent
moft gracious King, for a Fourth, and more ge-
neral Collection, which will very quickly find
you.
And ſuffer me to fay, that we ſhall come
to you with ſome Confidence of Succefs, when
we ſhall bring with us the beſt Evidence, that
can be given, that the Work of the Lord' profpers
in our Hands, and that your Charity will not be
beſtowed in Vain. Our very Wants are that Evi-
dence; for we have no cauſe to ask your Cha-
rity in this extraordinary Way, but this, that the
Labourers are not equal to the Harveft. And is
not this Harvest, this encreaſe of Chriftian Con-
gregations, among our Colonies, which requires
a larger Supply of Miffionaries, the very Thing,
that every good Man wishes, the very Thing he
expects, when he gives his Money? In many
other Inftances of Charity the Cafe is otherwiſe.
A Man may be in Want through his Vices, or
his Folly, and in ſuch a Cafe, if you give, you
are not fure it will turn to any good Account.
But when Want proceeds from the Worthieft of
Cauſes, and carries with it an Implication, that
former
24
A SERMON before the Society, &c.
former Benefits, have been well beftowed; it be-
comes its own Voucher, and the more a good
Man is called upon to give, within the Reach of
his Abilities, he will be the better pleaſed.
We do with thankful Hearts acknowledge his
Majeſty's Goodneſs, that after the Example of
his Royal Predeceffors, he has given fo gracious.
a Teſtimony of his Regard for the Welfare of his
People, and for the Religion, and Worſhip of the
Church of England. And we hope that the
Encouragement, that this Charity hath always
received from the Crown, will effectually recom-
mend it to all, who have the common Good at
Heart. And may God fo unite us in our Affec-
tions to his Sacred Majefty, that theſe Kingdoms.
may never want a Sovereign, nor this noble De-
fign a Friend, and Patron in him, and in his
Poſterity; For the Sake of Jeſus Chriſt,
To whom with the Father and the Holy Ghoft
be all Honour and Glory both now and for
Amen.
ever more.
FINI S.
}
*
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Parish-Church of St. MARY-LE-BOW,
On FRIDAY, February 17, 1743-4.
By JOHN Lord Biſhop of Landaff.
LONDON:
Printed for J. and H. PEMBERTON, at the Golden
Buck in Fleetſtreet; and Sold by J. ROBERTS in
Warwick-Lane. MDCCXLIV.
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the Society
for the Propagation of the Goſpel in
Foreign Parts, in the Veftry-Room of
St. Mary-le-Bow, on Friday the 17th
Day of February, 1743-4.
A
GREED, That the Thanks of the
SOCIETY be given to the Right
Reverend the Lord Biſhop of Landaff,
for his Sermon preached this Day before
the SOCIETY, and that his Lordſhip be
defired to deliver a Copy of the fame
to the SOCIETY to be Printed.
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary.
ROMANS I, 16th Verfe.
---I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Chrift.--
T
HE great Author of this Epiftle has in-
form'd us himſelf in how terrible a Scene
of Suffering and Diftrefs his Patience and
Reſolution had been already tried and proved in the
Courſe of his Goſpel-Miniftry: He gives us a ſhort
View of the Pains he had fuffer'd, and the Dan-
gers he had gone through in his fecond Epiſtle to
the Corinthians: Nothing terrified however, or diſ-
couraged, he goes on as a faithful Miniſter of Chriſt,
to the utmoſt of his Power, as much as was in him, b
to make known the Salvation of God. And being
well aware what various Oppoſition would be raiſed
to the
pure uncorrupted Truths of Chriſtianity, as
they are faithfully laid down in this Epiſtle to
the Church, that had been planted in the Impe-
rial City; he enters upon it with afferting the
Dignity and Excellence of that Faith, in which he
was now endeavouring to improve, and ſtrengthen,
and confirm thoſe who profefs'd to have received
it. Senfible of the groſs Miſtakes arifing from
Jewish Prejudice, with which the true Faith was
obfcur'd and darkened on the one hand, and of the
wilful
a 2 Cor. xi. 23, 24, 25, &c.
A 2
b Rom. i. 15.
3
4
A SERMON before the Society
wilful Perverfions, with which Men of corrupt
Minds diſhonour'd and difgrac'd it on the other:
In Oppofition particularly to theſe, and to every
other kind of Objectors, he ſets himſelf in this
Epiftle to defend and to propagate the pure and
found Doctrines of Chriſtianity; declaring with his
ufual Zeal and Stedfaftnefs to thofe he was now
writing to, and through them to the whole World,
that he was not aſham'd of the Gospel of Chrift.
As the beſt Things are moſt liable to be abus'd,
there have never been wanting in any Age of the
Church, even from the earlieſt, down to the pre-
fent Time, Men, who have oppos'd themſelves to
the Truth which is in Chriſt Jefus. Either thro'
fincere Miſtake, or from a Love of Power, or the
Dominion of private Paffions, different Men have
been attempting in their different Ways to build
upon this Foundation, Gold, Silver, precious Stones,
Wood, Hay, Stubble. But the Goſpel like the
Sun always fhines the fame whatever Clouds may
happen to paſs over it: It is a Building, that will
ſtand for ever fix'd and unmov'd, whatever Rains
may deſcend
upon it, whatever Storms may blow
againſt it; for it is founded upon a Rock, and its
Builder and Maker is God.d
Well then might our Apoftle glory in it: And
we ſhall very clearly fee, with what good Reafon,
if we confider that the Goſpel is,
Firſt,
c 1 Cor. iii. 12.
• Heb. xi. 10.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
5
Firſt, The Revelation of the Goodneſs of God
in the Redemption and Salvation of Mankind.
Secondly, That it is an infallible and fufficient
Rule of Faith. And
Thirdly, A compleat and perfect Rule of Pra-
Etice.
And from theſe Confiderations we ſhall be able
in the laft Place to make fome Obfervations fuita-
ble to the preſent Occafion.
Firſt then, The Goſpel is the Revelation of the
Goodneſs of God, in the Redemption and Salva-
tion of Mankind.
However justly Men may argue now upon Prin-
ciples of Reaſon, concerning the Nature and At-
tributes of God; and whatever Lengths they may
go in diſcovering the Ways and Methods of his.
Providence from the Things which are certainly
made known of him; 'tis much too hafty to im-
pute theſe Diſcoveries to mere Reaſon, tho' they
may have a folid Foundation in Reafon. For the
Cafe would be the fame with regard to an Infinity
of Truths relating to the Divine Nature, if it
ſhould pleaſe God to reveal them to us, which at
preſent however are abfolutely hid from the fharp-
eſt Eye of human Underſtanding. The Divine
Nature is Reaſon and Truth itſelf, and therefore
the Affent and Approbation of human Reaſon
would certainly follow any new Communications
of
6
A SERMON before the Society
f.
of Knowledge concerning it; and be enabled by
fuch Affiftance to proceed ftill further, and deduce
from it many now unknown Truths, which are
too wonderful and excellent for us to attain to of
ourſelves, f— And thus it is, that fince it has pleas'd
God to reveal himſelf by his Son; and the World
has been made acquainted with the Nature of that
God whom before they ignorantly worſhipped,8 Men
have been able by the Help of that Reafon which God
hath given them, to argue from theſe Principles, and
lay together very regular and comprehenfive Views
of the Relation between God and his Creatures,
and of the Duties refulting from thence which we
are bound to pay him. And when this is done,
the grateful Return ſome Men are immediately apt
to make, is to defpife the Goſpel: forgetful of the
Spring from whence their Knowledge flows; and
that the fairest Structures of human Reafon could
never have been rais'd, but upon the Foundations
the Goſpel.
Compare the Syſtems of Natural Religion which
later Times have given us with the beſt Productions
in that Way before the Goſpel Age, and the mighty
Difference will abundantly confirm the Truth of
this Obfervation. In Thefe you meet with a ge-
neral Ignorance even of the true God, and many
Errors naturally flowing from it: In Thoſe the
Nature and Attributes of God are clearly laid
down
£ Pfal. cxxxix. 5.
€ Acts xvii. 28.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7
down and prov'd: And with this effential Diffe-
rence between them, 'tis no Wonder that in the
One we find Virtue imperfectly recommended,
and with inſufficient Arguments; while in the
Other we are furniſh'd with compleat Syſtems of
Moral Duty, regularly digefted, and eſtabliſh'd
upon Principles, which give a Strength and Power
to the One wholly unknown to the Other. Now
Human Reaſon was always the fame; and whence
then this Difference in its Fruits, but from that
general Knowledge of God, which is ſpread abroad
in the World by the Light of the Goſpel; which
has opened the Eyes of Human Underſtanding,
and enabled Men, not to diſcover, properly, but to
draw out and eſtabliſh upon Principles of Reaſon,
many correſpondent Truths, from that Light,
which the Goodneſs of God has been pleas'd to
afford them?
But when we come to confider the Bulk of
Mankind, difobedient to the Law of Reafon, in-
volv'd in the Guilt of Sin, condemn'd by the juſt
Sentence of their own Confciences, and dreading
the Puniſhment they have deſerved; how imme-
diately in this View do all the Succours, the utmoſt
Strength of Reaſon, fail us! Does it fly for Pro-
tection to the infinite Goodneſs and Mercy of
God? Confider thefe, now they are clearly re-
vealed, as Perfections, not as Weakneſs in the Di-
vine Nature; reconcile them with his Purity, his
Wiſdom,
8
A SERMON before the Society
Wiſdom, his Juftice, his Authority, as the great
Lawgiver and Governor of the World; and here
Right Reaſon is fo far from finding Pardon and
Protection for finful Man, that it turns immedi-
ately on the other Side, and fixes down the Obli-
gation to Puniſhment upon him.
Go one Step further: Suppofe Men releas'd
from their Fears, by an Affurance of Pardon for
all their paſs'd Offences: How will they defend
themſelves, and where will they ſtand ſecurely for
the future? To go forth with the vanquiſh'd Pow-
ers of Reaſon, againſt the ſame Hoft of Temptati-
ons, drawing their Strength from the fame Appe-
tites and Paffions, would be too likely to end, as it
had done before, and produce nothing but an Ag-
gravation of Guilt by a Repetition of the fame
Crimes. Not that the Law of Reaſon is not in it-
felf a perfect Law: But the Oppofition to its
Commands is very ftrong from the Paffions even
of the beſt Men, furrounded with preſent Plea-
fures, fearful of prefent Dangers, juftly fufpicious
of their own Strength, and without hope of
ſome more Powerful Aid to fupport them: In
this Situation, a thinking Man muſt fee his
Danger, and almoft defpair of Remedy.e
Forgivenefs of the Sins he has committed, the Aid
and Affiſtance of God's Holy Spirit to enable him
to refift them for the future, thefe are the free
Gift of God himſelf, the gracious Promifes, and
è Rom. vii. 7. &c.
abfolute
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
abſolute Diſcoveries of the Goſpel. This is that
hidden Wiſdom of God, ordain'd before the World;
which none of the Princes of this World knew;
which no Human Eye had feen, no Ear heard,
and which it never entered into the Heart of Man
to conceive: But the Goodneſs of God hath revea-
led it unto us, by his Holy Spirit ª.
In this great Myſtery of Man's Redemption,
thus made known to the World by the Holy Spi-
rit of God, all the Doubts and Fears which before
perplexed the wifeſt and beſt Men, are clear'd up
and done away. By the voluntary Sacrifice of Chriſt,
who tho' he knew no Sin, was made Sin for us b
and gave himſelf for us an Offering and Sacrifice to
God, thereby reconciling us to the Father: By
this Holy and All-fufficient Sacrifice, the Juſtice
of God is ſatisfied, his Honour and Authority main-
tain'd, his Holinefs, his Purity, his Goodneſs and
his Mercy moſt gloriouſly manifeſted and dif-
play'd: And by the Gift of his Holy Spirit to in-
ftruct and ſupport Men in the Practice of their
Duty, now more clearly and powerfully revealed;
the Mercy of God is perfected: which has not on-
ly opened our Way to eternal Happineſs in a future
State thus purchas'd for us by the Death of Chriſt,
and brought to Light by the Goſpel, but made it at
the fame time both plain and eaſy.
1
v. 18.
B
c
In
1 Cor. ii. 7, 8, 9, 10. b 2 Cor. v. 21. Eph. v. z. d 2 Cor.
Eph. i. 17. Eph. iii. 16. Rom. viii. 26.
с
IO
A SERMON before the Society
In this Method it has pleaſed God to redeem
and to fave Mankind: And however vaftly it may
be above the Reach of Human Reaſon to have ex-
pected, or contriv'd it, we fee it, now it is reveal'd,
perfectly confiftent with the Laws of Reafon.
No Malice therefore can ever difpute it away :
No Wit turn it into Ridicule: But the calm and
faber Reaſon of every Good Man, as it perufes
the feveral Parts of it, will not only yield itſelf up
with the moſt full and entire Affent, but with the
profoundeſt Humility and warmeft Gratitude em-
brace the Terms of Salvation made known to us
in the Gofpel of Chriſt. Which, as was propos'd
in the fecond Place to be confidered,
Is an Infallible and fufficient Rule of Faith.
In the Gospel is contain'd that Hiſtory of our
Bleffed Saviour, thofe Doctrines and thoſe Duties,
upon the Belief and Practice of which depends our
Title to that Happineſs which our Bleffed Re-
deemer hath purchaſed for us. We cannot then
but obferve of what mighty Concern thefe Things
are to us: Nor be thankful enough to the Good-
nefs of God, who to preſerve them for our Ufe hath
taken Care in the Wiſdom of his Providence that
they ſhould be committed to writing. Had they
been left to be handed down from Age to Age by
the variable Breath of oral Tradition, if we fhould
fuppofe all Remembrance of them not to have
been long fince quite loft, the natural Uncertain-
ty,
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
IE
;
ty, the eaſy Poffibilities of wilful Corruption in
this Way, however confidently denied, can never
be difprov'd. But as they are fecured in Writing,
not only we may be affured of the Certainty of
theſe things; but they will remain a fixed invari-
able Rule of Faith and Manners to all Chriftians,
even unto the End of the World. For, befides
that the fame Goodneſs of God is manifeftly con-
cern'd to preferve the Records of his Mercy pure
and entire, as to what is effential in them, to
which it is owing that they were ever written
from the Nature of the Thing itſelf it is morally
impoffible, that a Writing of the utmost Impor-
tance to all Mankind, once made publick and put
into every Body's Hand, ſhould fuffer any materi-
al Alteration. Thefe Affurances then we have
that the Faith once delivered to the Saints, is come
down to us, as it will deſcend to our lateſt Poſte-
rity, in its Original Purity: And that it was Ori-
ginally Pure, free from Corruption or Miſtake of
any Kind, will appear very evidently, if we ad-
mit, what is readily granted in every fimilar Cafe,
and therefore not to be doubted in this, That the
Writings in which this Faith is contain'd are the
Works of thoſe Men whofe Names they bear.
For we have the Evidence of their Sufferings to
convince us of their Integrity; and they had the
Evidence of their own Senfes to convince them of
the Truth of what they have written: And from
both
B 2
12
A SERMON before the Society
both together arifes the cleareſt Argument
that their Writings are free, not only from all
wilful Corruption but alſo from all involuntary
Miſtake. For they have told us, our Bleffed Sa-
viour promiſed to fend the Holy Ghoſt to them,
to guide them into all Truth: to teach them all
things, and bring all things to their Remembrance,
whatſoever he had faid unto thems. And by the
Works they did they gave the fulleft Proof that
this Promiſe was made good to them. Under this
divine Influence then they wrote thoſe Truths, by
which they could gain nothing themſelves but the
Bonds, and Impriſonments, and Deaths, with
which they bore Witneſs to them: And here was
no Ignorance, no Vanity of Imagination, no Paf-
fion to darken or miſlead the Judgment, no Views
of Worldly Intereſt to corrupt it: Defended from
theſe Human Infirmities, they have declared the
Truth in Simplicity and godly Sincerity;h being ſafe-
ly led and conducted thro' the whole by the In-
fallible Spirit of God, who could neither deceive
nor be deceived. Him therefore the true Sheep
of Chrift will follow, for they know his Voice, and
a ftranger they will not follow, but flee from him,
for they know not the Voice of Strangersi.
Nor is there Occafion for them to feek after
any other Guide: For as the Goſpel is an infalli-
1
ble,
1 h
John xvi. 13. John xiv. 26. 2 Cor. i. 12. John. x. 4, 5.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13.
ble, fo it is a fufficient Rule of Faith; as every
thing contained in it is infallibly true, it contains
every thing that is neceffary to Man's Salvation.
If we admit the Goſpel as a Rule of Faith at all,
we muſt admit its Divine Authority, and receive
it as the Will of God in the great Work of the
Redemption and Salvation of Mankind: And has
he begun and not perfected his own Work? Has
he left it to any body elſe to ſupply his Defects?
Did he fend his only begotten Son into the World.
to fave Mankind, and yet to conceal from them
any thing neceffary to their Salvation? Or had he
not a Right finally and abſolutely to fix and fettle
the Terms of his own Goodnefs and Mercy to-
wards us?
This is plainly the fole Prerogative of God, who
only was able to beſtow Happineſs upon Mankind;;
and this he has done fo fully in the Goſpel deliver-
ed to us by his Son, that, to fhew how prefump-
tuous fuch a Practice would be in any Man, even if
an Angel from Heaven ſhould preach any other Gof-
pel than that we have receiv'd, the ſevereſt Sentence
is denounc'd againſt him k. For this Faith, once
deliver'd to the Saints; once for all, never to be
chang'd or alter'd, we are to contend earneſtly¹.
And if the fame God, who gave us the Goſpel for
our Rule of Faith, has commanded us to abide
ſtedfaſtly by this Rule: If inftead of giving Au-
thority
•
* Gal. i. 8, 12.
J Jude i. 3.
:
14
A SERMON before the Society
thority to any one upon Earth to alter it, an im-
poffible Suppofition is made only to ftrengthen the
Prohibition, and even an Angel from Heaven is
declar'd accurſed if he ſhould attempt it; what can
be clearer than that the Goſpel is in itſelf, as to the
Matter of it, a fufficient Rule of Faith that no-
thing may be either added to it, or taken from
it; but, as it was written that we might believe
that Jefus is the Chrift, the Son of God, the Things
that are written carry in them fufficient Evidence
of this Truth, and are fufficient for the End of be-
lieving it, which is, that we may have Life thro
bis Name m.
And therefore the Gofpel is not only fufficient
as to the Matter of it; but alſo as to the neceffary
Articles of our Faith, fufficiently plain and clear.
If it was not, the Things exprefsly declar'd to be
written that Men might believe and be fav'd, could
never poffibly anſwer this End. For the Law a
Man cannot comprehend, and the Law he never
heard of, is to him the fame thing; and he may
as well be requir'd to obey the one as the other;
as well might a Man guide his Feet by a Light he
cannot fee, as his Faith by a Rule he cannot under-
ftand And for thefe Reaſons it is fo evident that
every neceflary Article of the Chriftian Faith muft
be clearly and plainly reveal'd in the Holy Scrip
tures; that whatever is not fo, can be no neceffary
Article
m
John xx. 31-
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
{
Article of our Faith.
unreafonably with his Creatures, cannot poffibly
require them to believe any thing which he has
never been pleas'd to make known to them; or in
other Words, cannot be fuppos'd to promiſe them
Happineſs upon Conditions which it is not in their
Power to perform. Though there may be diffi-
cult Paffages therefore in the Holy Scriptures, e-
nough to exerciſe the Talents of thoſe who have
Leifure and Abilities to confider them; enough to
humble the inquifitive Pride of Man; yet as to ef-
fential Matters, the Rules of Faith and a good Life,
theſe are clearly and plainly reveal'd, and no ne-
ceffary Condition of our Salvation. is hid from us.
For God who does not deal
A
"Tis true, Men may be affifted in thefe Enqui--
ries; the Work may be much ſhortned; the Evi-
dence and Arguments for the Truths we are to be-
lieve, may be fo familiarly explain'd, may be laid
together in fo obvious a Light, that Conviction will
naturally grow out of it, and the full Affent of the
Mind follow immediately upon it.There may
be great Occafion to warn and perfuade Men againſt
thofe Difpofitions, that Temper of Mind, which
blinds the Heart, and covers the Underſtanding in
Darkness".-It may be neceffary to awaken Mens:
Attention to the Confideration of thefe Truths,
warm and conftant Repreſentations of the great:
Weight and infinite Importance of them. Thefe
Helps and theſe Affiſtances Men will always ftand.
a
Eph. iv. 17, 18.
by
in
16
A SERMON before the Society
in need of, while the Temptations of the World
and human Paffions remain what they are; and
theſe the Goodneſs of God has provided for them,
by a ſtanding Miniſtry in his Church. But ftill
the Scriptures are our Rule; and as the Commands
of God under the Law were written with a Man's
Pen, fo plain that he that runs might read them P,
fo neither is the Goſpel hid, fave to them who
are loſt; in whom the God of this World hath blind-
ed the Minds of them that believe not : But whoſo-
ever with a pure and honeft Heart ſeriouſly ap-
plies himſelf to the Study of theſe facred Writings,
will find in them a fure and plain Way to Hea-
ven; for they are able, without any pretended in-
fallible Additions or Interpretations, to make us
wife unto Salvation; and are profitable for Doctrine,
for Reproof, for Correction, for Inftruction in Righ-
teousness; that the Man of God may be perfect,
throughly furnish'd unto all good Warks. And
therefore
Thirdly, The Goſpel is alſo a compleat and
perfect Rule of Practice.
Take it in this Light, and there is firſt of
all the fame Neceffity that the Goſpel ſhould be
compleat and perfect. For as it is certain that he
who hopes to be fav'd by the Goſpel muſt believe
the Goſpel; it is as certain that without Obedience
to its Precepts, that is, without Holiness, no Man
Shall
• Ifai. viii. 1. Hab. ii. 2. 92 Cor. iv. 4. 2 Tim. iii, 15, 16, 17.
›
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
Shall fee the Lords. To be ignorant or miſled there-
fore in what we are to Do, would be as fatal, as it
would be in what we are to Believe: the End and
Deſign of the Goſpel would be as effectually defeat-
ed by any effential Error or Defect in one Way
as in the other: nor in either, may human Au
thority prefume to alter it; becauſe the Honour
and Authority and Prerogative of God, as to the
fole Right of ruling and governing in his own
Kingdom, are equally concern'd in both. To
theſe Arguments, arifing from the Reaſon of the
Thing, if we add, that the Goſpel in both Views
proceeds from the fame Divine Author, and has
the fame Divine Authority ftamp'd upon it, no
Doubt can remain but that as a Rule of Practice it
is abfolutely compleat and perfect.
Bnt confider the Precepts of the Goſpel in them-
ſelves, as a Syſtem of moral Virtue; you will find
it more full and clear, fupported with more effe-
ctual Affiftance, and eſtabliſh'd upon more pow-
erful Motives than any other. To fecure the In-
tereſts of Virtue among Men, the Chriftian Law
lays the Foundation in the Heart, purging and
cleanfing from all Impurity, that Source of all our
Thoughts, from whence confequently all our Acti-
ons flow. Apply'd to the outward Conduct of
Life, there is no Condition, no Circumſtance to
which it does not reach: conftantly tending to pro-
mote the Honour of God and the Happineſs of
C
• Heb. xii. 14.
Man.
18
A SERMON before the Society
Man. We find in it no defpotic arbitrary Man-
dates on the one hand; no Encouragement, no In-
dulgence given to the fond Conceits of Men on the
other: but each particular Duty has a folid Foun-
dation in Reaſon, and all together make
up that
regular and uniform Courſe of Virtue, that Beau-
ty of Holiness, that reaſonable Service, which im-
proves and raiſes up the Nature of Man, into a
Degree of Perfection which muſt be acceptable and
well-pleafing to the Nature of God.
Nor is this Excellence of the Chriftian Law in-
tended to raiſe our Admiration, but to influence
our Practice. There will be fome Difficulty, 'tis
true, fome Labour and Pains it will coft us to pay
a due Obedience to it: But with the Affiſtances
which the Goſpel offers, this is very poffible, and
with the Rewards it propofes, it is very reaſonable.
No juſt Objection therefore lies againſt the Duties
of Chriſtianity, as being too lofty and too ſublime:
For the Goodness of God has appointed a juſt Pro-
portion between the Strength and the Law which
he hath given us. The Commandment is holy and
juft and good. We have fufficient Abilities to re-
gulate our Conduct by it; 'tis intirely our own
Fault if we do not; and if we do, we fhall have
the Comfort to find it is a perfect Rule, juſtly cal-
culated as a neceffary Means for the Attainment
of the great End it has in View, which is the Sal-
vation of our Souls.
↑ Rom. vii. 12.
}
We
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
19
We fee then upon what folid Foundations the
Stedfaftnefs and Refolution of our Apoftle was
eſtabliſh'd: and with what good Reafon he de-
clared himſelf not afham'd of the Gospel of Chrift.
And from the Reprefentations I have made of it
in a few Particulars, which are to be confidered
but as fome of the principal Points of View in a
Proſpect too large to be all exprefs'd in one Piece,
we may proceed, as was propos'd in the laſt Place,
To make fome Obfervations fuitable to the
fent Occafion.
pre-
And firft, as the Gofpel is the Revelation of the
Goodneſs of God in the Redemption and Salvation
of Mankind, 'tis obvious to obſerve, that it is an
Act of the greateſt Beneficence, a natural Effect
of a firm Belief of the Gofpel, to endeavour to
fpread the Knowledge of it, and communicate its
Light to thoſe, who ftill unhappily fit in Darkness
and in the Shadow of Death “.
น. Very proper
Words theſe, to deſcribe the comfortleſs State
of the Heathen World; ignorant even of the firſt
Principles of true Religion, and oppreſs'd with the
Terrors of Sin and Death. Thefe thick Clouds,
with all their Obſtructions to the Practice of Vir-
tue, to the preſent Enjoyments of this Life, as
well as to all Hope in any other, the Goſpel has
remov'd from our Eyes: And if we think it any
real Advantage to know the true God; if there is any
folid Comfort in the Affurance that Chriſt has de-
u Luke i. 79.
C 2
livered
20
A SERMON before the Society
livered us from the Dominion of Sin and Death, we
can want no Arguments, if we fet a due Value
upon theſe Advantages ourſelves, to perfuade us
to impart them to our Fellow-Creatures, and be-
come the happy Inſtruments of conveying to them
alfo the Knowledge of the only true God, and Jefus
Chriſt whom he hath ſent, which is eternal Lifew.
Here it may be ſaid, and it is very true, That
God is no Refpecter of Perfons; but in every Na-
tion, he that feareth him and worketh Righteouſneſs
is accepted of him x. And from our natural Know-
ledge of God we are affur'd, that in the grand
Conclufion and Confummation of all Things,
his Conduct will be juſtified in the Sight of Men
and Angels as to his Dealings with all his Crea-
tures. But the particular Rewards, the glorious
Promiſes of the Goſpel, are join'd with Faith in
Chriſt, and given to thoſe who believe on the Name
of the Son of Gody. And upon whatever Grounds,
or to whatever Degree we may hope well of thoſe,
who making the beſt Uſe they could of the Light
of Nature, have liv'd and died without the Know-
ledge of his Name; the Doubts, the Fears, the
Danger, from the immenſe Difficulty of fulfil-
ling their Obligations in fuch a State, cannot be
denied; and to leave thoſe who fucceed them
under the fame Difadvantages, to wander un-
certain
W
w John xvii. 3.
John vi. 40, 54.
× Acts x. 33, 34, y 1 John v. 11, 12, 13.
John xx. 31.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
21.
certain through all the fame Perplexities and
Dangers, when a fecure and plain Road to Hap-
pineſs may be ſhewn them, is contrary even to the
firſt Principles of Reafon: And how much more
then ſhould that good Nature, and Tenderneſs, and
brotherly Affection, which are the diſtinguiſhing
Characters of a Chriſtian, conſtrain us to endea-
vour to make the Way of God known upon Earth,
and to publiſh this his faving Health among all
Nations z?
Again: Is the Goſpel an Infallible and Suffici-
ent Rule of Faith? Then by propagating it in this
View, you not only arm thoſe who are yet igno-
rant of it, with a good Defence againſt the Im-
preffions of falſe Religion, but with the beſt Guard
alſo that can be put into their Hands againſt fin-
cere Miſtake or wilful Corruption in the Interpre-
tation of the true One.
From the general Experience of the old Hea-
then World, we may obſerve the great Weakneſs
of the Human Mind, when left to itſelf in its Re-
ligious Enquiries; and how capable it is of receiv-
ing the groffeft Errors, utterly inconſiſtent with
the very
firft Principles of true Religion. God has
never left himſelf without Witnefs from whence
theſe might always have been learn'd: But when
Men were left to collect them from the vifible
Creation, from that Evidence of the Being and
Nature of God, which has ever been legible in his
Works;
z Pfal. vi. 7·
22
A SERMON before the Society
Works; the Fact has fhewn that in general and
among the Bulk of Mankind, Imagination pre-
vail'd over Reafon: The natural Turn of their
own Tempers, whether that was Vanity or Pride,
Hope or Fear, got the better of their Underſtand-
ings; and under this Government, 'tis no wonder
they ſhould run into very irregular and abfurd No-
tions of Religion.
But this is not the only Danger; 'tis not enough
that Men ſhould be fafely conducted thus far:
Even when brought to the Knowledge of God,
and of his Son Jefus Chrift, there are ftill many
By-Paths in which they may eafily wander out of
the right Way. And this is an Affair of fuch vaſt
Moment, that it is very natural for Men to di-
ftruſt themſelves, and wifh for fome fure infallible
Rule, whereby to govern their Conduct in it. If not
directed therefore to the true One, they will be very
liable to be caught and intangled by any plauſible
Pretences to the Authority of fixing fuch a Rule,
however ill founded fuch Pretences may be, or
however abfurd in itſelf for any Man to pretend to
it. And we can neither be ignorant with what
Boldneſs this Claim is afferted, with what unwea-
ried and ſkilful Diligence it is propagated by our
Adverfaries of the Church of Rome; nor how ea-
fily her Superftitions and Idolatries muſt take
place, wherever it is once believed that they are
commanded by an Authority which cannot err.
So
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
23
So that with regard to this unhappy, unenlight-
ned Part of Mankind, who are the prefent Objects
of your Chriſtian Confideration, in whatever View
you confider them, the Obligation is very ſtrong
upon us to communicate to them the Infallible
and Perfect Rule of Religious Faith, made known
to the World by the Goſpel of Chrift: Which if
they are not wanting to themſelves in the Ufe of it,
will ſecure them, as well againſt the vain Imagi-
nations of their own Hearts on the one hand, as
the wicked Inventions of other Peoples Hearts on
the other; in a word, againſt the wild Conceits
of Enthuſiaſm, the dangerous Deluſions of Super-
ftition, and the wilful Corruptions of Popery.
Laſtly, Is the Goſpel a compleat and perfect
Rule of Practice? Then by fpreading the Know-
ledge of it in the dark Corners of the World, you
not only leffen prodigiouſly the Difficulty of their
Tafk, who from a good. Difpofition may be de-
firous to diſcover the Commands of Virtue, and to
live in Obedience to them; but will probably be
the Inſtruments of creating this Defire in Tempers
where, otherways, perhaps it would never grow;
by putting ferious. Thoughts into their Heads, and
bringing them to confider the Precepts of the Goſpel.
In theſe they will have the Advantage to find Mo-
ral Virtue in many Instances much improv'd, and
every
where carrying fuch an apparent Reafona-
blenefs and Fitnefs in it, as muſt recommend and
approve
24
A SERMON before the Society
approve itfelf to the juft Judgment of their own
Minds: A Principle which will operate more
powerfully in all Cafes, and have its Effect in ma-
ny, where any other Power would have little or
no Effect at all. For Confcience once awakened
is not only the beft Monitor in thefe Matters, but
the moſt watchful Guardian of her own Laws,
and the ſevereſt Judge. And when ſtrengthened
with the Motives and Sanctions of the Gofpel;
convinc'd of the peculiar Obligation deriv'd from
thence upon all Mankind to live virtuously, and
of the Confequence of our Behaviour in this Re-
fpect, the Man is then poffefs'd of every Argu-
ment, under the Influence of all the Force to con-
ftrain him to the Practice of Virtue, that is either
confiftent with his own Nature, or the Nature of
Virtue itſelf. Thefe Aids, and thefe Affiftances
the Goodneſs of God has been pleafed to afford us,
who beft knew how much that weak and frail
State of Nature to which Men had reduc'd them-
felves, ſtood in need of them: And with all theſe
Helps we ſee it ftill fo difficult for Virtue to make
a Stand, and keep any tolerable Footing in the
World, that it would be as inhuman not to com-
municate them to thoſe who are unacquainted with
them, as it is abfurd to argue, that they don't
want them. Every Chriſtian Duty, 'tis true, is
a reaſonable Duty: But fo ill able to ſtand againſt
the Paffions of Men, and the Temptations of the
World,
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
25
upon
World the Foot of Reafon only, that a very
moderate Share of ferious Concern for the Cauſe
of Virtue would ſerve to convince any Man, how
neceffary it is to ſtrengthen the Perſuaſions of Rea-
fon with the Promiſes of the Goſpel. Under theſe
indeed all juſt Objection is filenc'd: Take the
Goſpel along with you, and the Practice of Virtue
is in every poffible Circumſtance, ſo right and fit,
fo clearly the reaſonable Choice, that if we ſuppoſe
a Man not to have renounc'd his Reafon; to lay
the Goſpel before him as the Rule of his Moral
Conduct, is to make not the Knowledge only of
his Duty eaſy to him, but if he pleaſes, the
Practice too.
Theſe are the Views of your Pious Labour;
this the great End and Deſign of
End and Deſign of propagating the
Knowledge of the Gofpel: To open the Eyes of
thoſe who are yet ignorant of it; to turn them from
Darkness to Light, and from the Power of Satan
unto God: That they may receive Forgiveness of
Sin, and Inheritance among them which are fancti-
fied by Faith that is in Chrift Fefusa.
+
An Undertaking, difintereſted as this is; free
from the moſt diftant Approach towards any
Worldly View; from which thoſe who are con-
cern'd in it have no poffible Advantage to expect,
here on Earth, but that which is common to
every other Good Work, the Satisfaction of af
fifting
a Acts xxvi. 18.
D
1
26
A SERMON before the Society
fifting in it: Such a Deſign, as to the Matter of it
muſt be, if there is any fuch thing, wholly un-
exceptionable, and like Wiſdom, will be juftified
of her Children.b
For the Manner of executing this Deſign we
may appeal to the Annual Accounts of the Pro-
ceedings of the Society; which no one ſhould
blame, who has not taken the Pains to confider
them: And for thoſe who have, as 'tis in the
Power of every body to examine them, that plea-
fes; 'tis to be hoped they have found the profefs'd
View of this Deſign fincerely and honeſtly pur-
fued, without Favour or Partiality: And it is no
fmall Satisfaction, that the Prudence and Wiſdom
with which it is conducted, may be argued, ſo far
as the Success depends upon Human Means, from
the Succeſs: Nor is it an inconſiderable Argument to
move you to contribute to this Good Work; to be
fo well affured that your Charity will be honeſtly
and wifely applied to the Purpoſe for which it is
intended.
Confider the Purpoſe itſelf, it is the greateſt and
nobleft that can enter into the Heart of Man. To
bring Men to the Knowledge of God, and teach
them the Way to Eternal Life, is not only the
greateſt Good it is in the Power of Man to do, as
far above affifting them in the little Accommoda-
tions of this Life as the Heavens are above the
Earth ;
• Matthew xi. 19.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
27
Earth; but is that very Good, for which the Son
of God Himfelf came down from Heaven; for
which he condeſcended to be made in all things
like unto us, Sin only excepted, and to live and
die among the Children of Men: And if God fo
loved us, can we want any Arguments to excite
our Compaffion, and move us to diffuſe and ſpread
the full Benefit of that Love, as wide as we can,
among our Fellow Creatures! The Nature of this
Charity is ſo fublime, the Benefit of it ſo impor-
tant, the Calamity of thoſe who want it fo truly
piteous, that it is enough to blow up even the leaft
Spark of true Chriftian Affection, and enflame our
Hearts with the moſt ardent Defire to contribute,
by all Chriſtian Means in our Power, to enlarge
the Bounds of Chrift's Kingdom here on Earth:
To bring the yet unconverted Heathen within it's
Dominion and Priveliges, and unite them in one
Sheepfold under Chrift the great Shepherd of all
our Souls.
The Succeſs of this Work ſhould lie very near
the Heart of all who name the Name of Chriſt:
among whom it is the Duty of every one to con-
tribute towards it after his Power. If it fuits not
the Genius of thoſe who love to follow cunningly
devis'd Fables, and are fond of the enticing
Words of Man's Wisdom: Or if in theſe laſt Days
it ſhould draw upon us from Men who are Lovers
D 2
€ 2 Pet. i. 16.
તે
d1 Cor. ii. 4.
of
28
A SERMON before the Society, &c.
f
of themſelves, and determined to follow their own
Luſts £, unreaſonable Ridicule, or Clamour, or Re-
proach: This is but what we have been taught to
expect, by him who hath taught us how to bear it.
This Treatment we ſhould look upon as one Proof
of the Truth and divine Authority of that Goſpel
wherein it is foretolds, and far from being dif-
couraged we ſhould rejoice in it exceedingly,
affur'd that he is faithful who has promis'd, that
our Reward ſhall be great in Heaven. With that
Gentleneſs then and Meekneſs, with that Long-
fuffering and Patience which become the Goſpel,
of Peace, let us ftedfaftly continue to publiſh the
Words of Truth and Sobernessh, to be as inftru-
mental as we can in fending forth the bright Light
of the Goſpel into the dark Corners of the World,
to haften the coming of Chrift's Kingdom here on
Earth, and expect our Reward when the Son of
Man coming again in the Glory of his Father, with
his holy Angels, will not be afham'd of us, if we
have not been afham'd of the Gospel of Chrifti.
f
2
e Tim. iii. 1.
£ 2 Pet. iii. 3.
ǹ Acts xxvi. 25.
1
8 Matth. v. 11.
1 Mark viii. 38.
ΑΝ
}
5
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SoCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Parish Church of St. MARY-LE-Bow,
On Friday February 15, 1744.
By PHILIP BEARCROFT, D.D.
Chaplain in Ordinary to His Majeſty, and
Secretary to the Society..
LONDON.
Printed by EDWARD Owen in Amen-Corner.
And Sold by J. ROBERTS in Warwick-Lane;
and A. MILLAR, at Buchanan's Head in the
Strand. MDCCXLIV.
f
464
书
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$
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br.s
Printed by ORDER of the
SOCIETY dated at Bow-
Veftry, Feb. 15, 1744.
38000
↑
*
BGCLEZA
A
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Wt in
**
Ep. Gal. C. vi. V. 9.
Let us not be weary in well doing; for
in due Seafon we shall reap, if we
faint not.
HE many excellent Difcourfes,
which have been made before
this Venerable Society, have fo
far exhauſted the chief Topicks
concerning them, that ſhould I
lay before you the Intent of
their. Incorporation, and the Obligations, which all
good Chriftians lie under to promote `it';
or fhould I defcend to Particulars, and expatiate
on the Charity of bringing back our Brethren
in America to good Manners and a Chriſtian Life,
the Juftice and Gratitude of giving to the poor
Negroe Slaves, hard at Work to obtain for their
Mafters the Meat which perisheth, that Meat which
endureth to everlasting Life, -the exalted Piety
A 2
of
3
♦
3
Y 15
4
A SERMON before the Society
of teaching the fimple Indians, what they must do
to be faved; I muſt either repeat what hath been
already faid by thofe great Prelates, and other
worthy Difpenfers of God's Holy Word, who
have gone before me on theſe Subjects; or tref-
pafs to much lefs good Purpofe on your Patience,
while I ventured to deliver my own Thoughts
upon them.
And yet
lefs would it become him, whoſe Duty
and Honour it is to receive and obferve the Or-
ders of this great Body, to deliver them out, and
to look to the Obſervance of thoſe excellent Rules,
which their Wiſdom hath laid down for the Con-
duct of all thoſe who are employed under them,
to preſume to inſtruct his Superiors, in the Execu-
tion of their moſt important Trust.
辱
​But after waving all thefe Heads, may I not be
permitted with St. Paul to exhort them, and all
the other generous Contributors towards the Pro-
pagation of the Goſpel in Foreign Parts, not to be
weary in this well doing, for this very good Rea-
fon, that in due Seafon they shall reap, if they faint
not? Had that chofen Veſſel unto God to bear bis
Name among the Gentiles, after having been in
Labours more abundant, grown weary, God alone
knows, when Life and Immortality bad been
brought to Light through the Gospel of Chriſt to us,
who were fitting in Darkness and in the Shadow of
Death, very far from Jerufalem, whence the great
Bleffing
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
5
•
Bleffing came, and by the great Waters feparated
from the rest of the Earth, until the noble Ar-
dour and unwearied. Zeal of this great Apoſtle,
under the Care of all the Churches, reached even
to us; and through the Divine Mercy we were
brought early out of Darkness into Chrift's marvel-
lous Light, either by St. Paul, or by fome of
thofe Holy Men, who were ordained by, or de-
rived their Commiffion from him, who vouch-
fafes to befeech us to be Followers of him in this,
and all other well doing, as he was of Chrift, who
came to ſeek and fave that which was loft, and that
Repentance and Remiffion of Sins fhould be preach-
ed to all Nations in his Name.
In an humble Imitation of, and in a dutiful Obe-
dience to Chrift and to this his great Apoftle, this
Society have employed themfelves for the Space
of more than 40 Years in this truly Evangelical
Work; and laid out their Time, their Care, and
their Purſe, in the Maintenance of a learned and or-
thodox Clergy, and in the making, fuch other Pro-
vifion, as they have found neceſſary for the Propaga-
tion of the Gospel in Foreign Parts; with what
Succeſs I fhall proceed to lay before you from au-
thentick Papers, as the great Motive for Perfeve-
rance in this well doing.
The Charter of Incorporation bears Date on
the 16th Day of June 1701, and the Society, as
foon as formed, fet about their great Work with all
K
Ala-
6
SERMON DE
Man before the
the Society
5m
ས
į masa
I
Alacrity and Care, and in the first Place took a
andr
diſtinct Survey, and made a particular Inquiry in-
to the Religious State of our Colonies in America.
And to their great Grief they found the Suggeſti-
ons in their Charter much too true, that in many
of our Plantations and Colonies, the Provifion for
Minifters was mean, and others of them were
wholly unprovided of a Maintenance for Minifters
and the Worfhip of God; and that for lack of Sup-
port and Maintenance for fuch, many of our Fel-
low-Subjects wanted the Administration of God's
Word and Sacraments, and others of them feemed
to be abandoned to Atheism and Infidelity.
tr
And I fhall prove this from Particulars, if your
Patience will fo far bear with me.
In the Ifland of Newfoundland, to begin with
the Colony neareft ourſelves, were about 500 Fá-
milies, which walked in the Vanity of their own
Minds, without any Sort of Publick Worship
among them.
In New-England, to go on to the Conti-
nent of America, there were at leaft 70,000 Inha-
70;öeoiInha-
bitants in the Government of Maffachufets Bay,
30,000 in that of Connecticut, 3000
3000 in New Hamp-
Shire, 2000 in the Province of Mayn, and but
one Church of our Holy Communion, viz. in
the
m
A
Colonel Dudley's (Governour of New-England) · Ac-
count of the Engliſh Plantations in North America, laid before
the Society September 19, 1701.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7
}
the City of Boſton, among fo many Thousand
Souls.
الوار
In Rhode Island and Providence Plantation werè
about robo Feople, and there was the Beginning
of a Church in the Town of Newport in the
Ifland.
''
។
*
. But in the adjoining Plantation of Naraganset
were 3000 People without any Form of Religion.
In the Province of New-York were 25,000
Perfons, and one Church juft opened there.
*In Eaft-Jerfey were 8000, in Weft ferfey
were 5000 Inhabitants, with very few Places of
Publick Worſhip, and not one according to the
Liturgy of the Church of England.
In Pennsylvania were computed 15,000 People,
and there was one Church in Philadelphia: the
Capital of the Province.
In North Carolina were 5000 of our People
befides Negroes and Indians, who all did only
what was right in their own Eyes as to Religion,
and ſeem'd much too literally to live without God
in the World.
In South Carolina were 7000 white People
with one Church in Charles-Town.
This upon a particular Inquiry appeared to be
the State of our Plantations and Colonies, which
{
more
* Col. Lewis Morris, (now Governour of the Jerfies) his
Memorial concerning the Ferfies, laid before the Society 19
Sept: 1701.
A SERMON before the Society
2
+
more immediately wanted the Help of the Soci
ety at the Time of their Incorporation. For as to
Maryland and Virginia, and the Ilands of the
West-Indies, they were found to be fo well fettled,
and provided with Churches and Incumbents un-
der the Care of their Right Reverend Ordinary,
ås not to ſtand in Need of Affiſtance from the So-
ciety.
7
Therefore let us in the next Place proceed to
inquire, what hath been done by the Society for
theſe firſt-mentioned Colonies, and what is their
preſent Religious State.
2
In Newfoundland two Miffionaries of good Re-
putation in the holy Orders of our Church are and
have been maintained for many Years at the Ex-
pence of the Society, to teach the poor ignorant
People dwelling there, and fome Thoufands of
occafional Inhabitants, who in the Summer Seafon
come thither to 'fifh, to know the only true God,
and Fefus Christ our Lord; and thefe our Fishers
of Men have fo far reclaim'd the People to a Senfe
of Religion, that they have built three Churches
in the Iſland for the publick Worfhip of Almighty
God, and the more decent Celebration of the blef
fed Sacraments according to our holy Liturgy, in
which all both Old and Young are inftructed in
the first Principles of the Oracles of God; for to
obferve it once for all, the Society's Miffionaries
are occafionally Catechifts and School-mafters, as
well
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
well as Preachers, and are to become all Things to all
Men, if by any Means they may fave fome, by bring-
ing the unbaptized to the facred Laver of Regene-
ration, and the regenerate to the Lord's holy Table,
to the strengthening and refreshing of their Souls,
that they all may every Day grow more and more
in Grace, and walk worthy of the Vocation, where-
unto they are called.
In New-England the Number of the Society's
Miffionaries have been continually increaſing from
their firſt Inſtitution, and at this Time nineteen
Millionaries are fupported by them therein, and
could the Society, in Prudence and Juſtice to the
preffing Defires of the other Colonies, anfwer the
importunate Demands of this very populous Pro-
vince for new Miffionaries, they muſt at leaſt
double the Number, fo mightily grows the Word of
God, and prevails according to the Liturgy of the
Church of England in this Province, which was
originally planted by Diffenters from it of various
Names, and thofe broken afterwards into more,
and before-unheard-of Denominations. The Pow
ers there in being, to do them Juſtice, had taken
Care for God's publick Worſhip, and erected.
Schools for the Education of their Youth, but
not in true orthodox Principles of the Church of
England, but in the Independent Way; and they
continued their Prejudices, which they had carried
over with them againſt our Liturgy fo far, as not
B.
X
to
10
A SERMON before the Society
}
vil,
to permit that fingle Church in Boſton before-
mentioned without an Order from the Throne.
But now God be thanked thofe Prejudices are ve-
ry fenfibly worn off, and there are at leaſt thirty
Churches and Chapels in this Province, under the
Care of our Miffionaries, whofe worthy Behaviour
in this Province cannot be better fet forth, than
in the Words of a Right Reverend Prelate, who
hath been there in his own Perfon, and is above
all Sufpicion of Flattery, or Deceit,* I ſpeak it
knowingly, that the Minifters in thofe Provinces
which go by the Name of New-England, fent
and fupported at the Expence of this Society, have
by the Sobriety of their Behaviour, and a compe-
tent Degree of uſeful Knowledge, fhewn them-
felves worthy of the Choice of thofe who fent
them, and particularly in living on a more friend-
ly Foot with thofe of the Separation, who on
their Part are alſo very much come off from that
Narrownefs of Spirit, which formerly kept them
at fuch an unamicable Diftance. May the God
of Love, Joy, and Peace bring us daily nearer to
each other, and heal all our Breaches, that we
may take fweet Councel together in the Unity of the
Spirit, and in the Bond of Peace, and walk in the
Houfe of God as Friends in all Sincerity and Truth,
but if any be contentious, this Society hath no fuch
Cuſtom, neither the Churches of God.
M
*
*
}
In
* Dr. Berkeley's (now Lord Bishop of Cloyne) Sermon
before this. Society, 1731, P. 21.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
II
In the Province of New-York appear no Foot-
Ateps of
any Attempt towards a Settlement in Re-
ligion, earlier than in the Year 1693, when be-
cauſe * Prophaneſs and Licentioufriefs bad over spread
the Province for want of a fettled Miniftry through-
out the fame, it was ordained by Act of Affembly,
that fix Proteftant Minifters fhould be appointed
therein, but this Act began not to operate till four
Years later, in 1697, when they fet about
building the Church at New-York, which they
ſpeedily and happily effected, and chofe || that
worthy Perſon their Rector, who continues to this
Day the careful Paftor thereof. But as for the
other five Churches to be built in the other Parts
of the Province, the Salaries from the Publick for
the Incumbents to be appointed to them was fo
fmall, as not to be a fufficient Maintenance with-
qut the charitable Aid of this Corporation, which
gives Salaries to nine Miffionaries in this Province,
in which there are about twenty Churches and Chapels
with crouded Congregations. And † it hath been
remarked to the Honour of the Inhabitants of this
Province, that they have thrown off all their for-
mer Rudeneſs, and become a Religious, Sober and
Polite People, and, as Traders to New-York affure
us, reſemble the English very much in their open
Behaviour and frank Sincerity of Spirit.
B 2
In
* V. Trot's Laws of the British Plantations in America, p. 263.
The Reverend Mr. Vefey, Commiffary of New-York.
+V. Hiftorical Account of the Society, p. 35.
12
A SERMON before the Society
+
In Eaft and Weft ferfey, now united into one,
there was a very wretched. Appearance of Religi-
on, and the Principles of the poor People were fa
corrupted, and their Practices fo debauched, as to
fuffer them to commit all Manner of Iniquity with
Greediness. * They generally spent the Lord's Day
throughout the Province at Publick Houses, where
they got their Fill of Rum, and then went to Fight-
ing, and to running Races; but, now, through the
Bleffing of God upon the charitable Endeavours
of the Society, there is a great Reformation of
Manners among them; and the Grace of God,
which teaches us that denying Ungodliness and world-
by Lufts, we ſhould live ſoberly, righteouſly and god-
ly in this prefent World, hath fo far wrought upon
them, that they have built ten Churches, befides
Chapels, in which the Word of God, which gi
veth Wiſdom and Underſtanding, is well attend-
ed on every Lord's Day by populous Congregati-
ons, and the Bleffed Sacraments duly adminiftred
by five Miffionaries from this Society..
辈
​In Pennfylvania are People of almoſt all Perfwa-
fions in Religion, but that Sect is predominant,
which profeffing themselves wife, are become fo far
Fools, as to reject as carnal Ordinances Chrift's
inſtituted Means of Grace, and the Light within
them being turned into Darkness, they are alienated
from the Life of God: But however, to give them
*Colonel Morris's Memorial concerning them.
their
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
་
(
their Due, they are ſo far confiftent with their Prin-
ciples, as to leave all Men at Liberty to feek the
Lord in their own Way; and the Liturgy of the
Church of England is become of good Repute in
this Country: There is one flouriſhing Church at
Philadelphia, and not less than twenty Churches
and Chapels more ferved by eight Miffionaries in
this Province, whoſe publick Adminiſtrations are
fo well attended, that fometimes in the Summer
Seaſon the Outfides of the Doors and of the Win-
dows are crowded, while our Workmen, that need
not be ashamed, * are laying again of the Foundation
of Repentance from dead Works, and of Faith to-
ward God, of the Doctrine of Baptifms, and of
laying on of Hands, and of Refurrection of the
Dead, and of eternal Judgment. For too many
there have Need of Milk and not of ftrong Meat
and to be taught again which be the firft Principles
of the Oracles of God. The Invitations of the Miffi-
onaries to all fuch is general and free, they ſeek not
theirs but them. Ho, every one that thirfteth come
ye to the Waters, and he that hath no Money, come
buy and eat, yea come buy Wine and Milk without
Money, and without Price; what they freely have
received, to them that hunger and thirst after
Righteousness, they will freely give, the Water and
Bread of Life to the eternal Salvation of their
immortal Souls.
*Heb. vi. 1, 2.
;
In
14
A SERMON before the Society
In North Carolina the Obfervation of the Lord's
Day, and all other Religious Duties," feemed to
have been quite forgotten: There was no Teaching
Prieſt among them, nor any Appearance of Reli-
gion. However, there were a few not infenfible
of their deplorable Condition, who laid before the
Society their Want of God's Word and Sacra-
ments in a very ſerious and affecting Manner, and
out of tender Compaffion for them, and, if poffi-
ble, to reduce from a reprobate Mind the other,
two Itinerant Miffionaries have been long main-
tained to go over this not yet well fettled Province,
preaching every where, and from Houfe to Houſe,
Repentance towards God, and Faith towards our
Lord Jefus Chrift, baptizing their Children, and
all fuch not yet baptized Adults, as are Religiouf
ly defirous of being bleffed by that Sacrament;
and adminiftring to all Members of Chrift's Church
that are devoutly difpofed, the comfortable Sacra-
ment of Chriſt's Body and Blood. And the Soci-
ety's Care of them has wrought fo good an Effect,
that the Affembly of this Province paffed an * Act
for dividing it into nine Parishes, and for the
erecting as many Churches in them, with Sti-
pends for nine Minifters, to express their Gratitude
towards the Right Honourable the Society for pro-
moting the Christian Religion in Foreign Parts, and
their
*V. Trot's Laws of the British Plantations in America,
p. 83.
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
15
**
تھ
€
their Zeal for the promoting our Holy Religion, as
the Act words it. But notwithſtanding this, there
are as yet but three or four Churches erected, and
the People ſcattered over this large Province re-
main fo unfettled in good and religious Principles,
that both the Miffionaries complain in their Let-
ters of the great Contradiction of Sinners, and other
Difficulties under which they labour: And there-
fore the Society hath added lately a third Miffio-
nary, one of the Magiftrates of the Province, who
offered himſelf on his Arrival here, and upon Exa-
mination was found worthy of Holy Orders; and
they have furniſhed him and the other Miffiona-
ries with Books good and uſeful for their Miffions
for the Inftruction of the Ignorant, and for the
Reformation of the Wicked; that, if poffible, this
untoward Generation may be reclaimed, and be
brought to the faving Knowledge of the Truth, as
it is in Jefus Chriſt.
South Carolina is much better fettled, and the
People of it, it is to be hoped, better Chriſtians,
for the Proprietaries and Magiftrates of it have ta-
ken good Care of Religion; they fought very ear-
ly and obtained the Affiftance of the Society, and
in a grateful Acknowledgment of it have built and
endowed many Churches with Glebes Manfes and
Salaries for the Incumbents; by which feveral of
them are fo well provided, as to want no Affiſt-
ance from the Society, and therefore` only ten Pa-
rishes
16
A.SERMON before the Society.
rishes are furniſhed with Miffionaries from the
Society, and thofe with ſmaller Salaries than they
ufually beftow.
Theſe Provinces have been the chief Objects of
the Society's Care, but they have affifted occafion-
ally, and are ready to affift to teach the Way of
God more perfectly to all our other Plantations
and Colonies, as far as their Abilities will hold,
and Neceffity ſhall require; and therefore they
have for fome Years maintained a Miffion in the
Bahama Iſlands, in which the Inhabitants are ig-
norant and poor; and they have granted lately a
Salary to a Miffionary in Georgia, upon a Memo-
rial from the Truftees for the Eſtabliſhment of
that Colony, ſetting forth, that they were not in
a Capacity of doing it themſelves, the Money gi-
ven for the Uſe of that Colony by Act of Parlia-
ment being appropriated to other Ufes.
And as the Maintenance of a learned and or-
thodox Clergy abroad, though the principal, is
not the only Intent of this Corporation, but they
are alfo to make fuch other Provifion as fhall be
found neceſſary for the Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts: The Society have done all in
their Power to encourage the fetting up of Schools,
that the rifing Generation may be brought up in
the Nurture and Fear of the Lord, and they give
Salaries to three Catechifts and twelve School-
maſters for this Purpoſe; and to compleat all, they
have
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
have furniſhed the Churches with Bibles and Com-
mon Prayer Books, fixed Parochial Libraries, and
given away fo great a Number of good Books, and
of devotional and practical ſmall Tracts by
the Hands of their Miffionaries throughout Ame-
rica, as in the whole have coſt them many Thou-
fand Pounds.
By theſe Means the Grace of God, which bring-
eth Salvation, hath appeared to our poor abandon-
ed Brethren in America,
By theſe Means alfo Life and Immortality have
been brought to Light to the poor benighted Ne-
groes labouring among them, and the Savage Indi-
ans bordering upon them. For the Society, which
would have all Men to be faved, and to come to the
Knowledge of the Truth, have eſteemed themſelves
Debtors not only to their own Brethren, but alſo
to theſe Barbarians both bond and free.
For more than 30 Years the Society have main-
tained two Catechifts for the particular Inſtruction
*of the Negroes, * the one at New York, † the other
on the Society's Plantations in Barbados, by whom
many Hundreds of thefe poor Slaves have been
taught
C
* There are generally about 70 Catechumens under the In-
ftruction of the Catechift in New-York.
+ By the laft Account from the Society's Plantations in Bar-
bados concerning their Negroes, there were then on their Plan-
tations 219 Negroes, who attend on the Catechift, and 72 of
them had been made Chriftians by Baptifm.
18
ASER MON before the Society
1
་
taught to believe in God, and in his Son Jefus
Christ our Lord; and by Baptifm admitted into
his Church. Nor have our Miffionaries in their
feverál Stations been wanting towards this good
Work; more than 100 Negroes attend on the
flouriſhing Church at Rhode Iſland; ‡ on that of
Naraganfet 70 Negroes and Indians; and fo on in
a leffer Proportion in many others. And the So-
ciety hath lately fallen upon an happy Expedient
for their Service by the Purchafe of two young
Negroes, whom they have qualified, by a thorough
Inftruction in the Principles of Chriftianity, and
by teaching them to read well, to become School-
mafters to their Fellow-Negroes. This Project is
but of Yeſterday; but the Reverend Perfon who
propoſed it, and under whofe Care and Inſpection
the two Youths are placed, hath acquainted the
Society, * that it fucceds to his Heart's Defire:
That one School is actually opened at Charles
Town in South Carolina, which hath more than
60 young Negroes under Inftruction in it, and
will annually ſend out between 30 and 40 of them
well inftructed in Religion, and capable of reading
their Bibles, who may carry Home, and diffuſe the
་
faving
The Reverend Mr. Honyman's Letter, Miffionary at Rhode
land, June 13, 1743.
1
The Reverend Dr. Maefparran's Letter, Miffionary at
Naraganfet, April 20, 1742.
* Commiffary Garden's Letters to the Secretary of the So
ciety, Oct. 10, Jan. 31, 1743-
A
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
19
faving Knowledge, which they fhall have been
taught, among their Parents, Relations, and Fel-
low-Slaves: And Schools in Time will be open-
ed in other Places, and in other Colonies, to teach
them to believe on the Son of God, who fhall
make them free indeed. †
As to the wild Indians bordering on our Colo
nies, they are rather to be ftiled Tribes than Na-
tions, for they are not numerous, feldom above
one Hundred or two in a Company ſpeaking the
fame Dialect, and thoſe frequently at Enmity, if
not open War, with their next Neighbours; and
by the beſt Proof, that of Experience, it is found
to be to no Purpoſe to talk to theſe Indians about
our Religion in their wild native State; they must
be reduced from their Barbarity, I had almoft faid
Brutality, and be made Men, that is, rational
confiderate Creatures, before they will become
good Chriftians. Indeed at the firft Publication
of the Gofpel, when the Apostles went forth to
preach, and thofe holy Men Spake as they were
moved by the Holy Ghoft, the Lord confirming
the Words with Signs following, many Thouſand
Souls at a Time were added to the Church : But
now thoſe extraordinary Affiftances are ceaſed, we
can only uſe the ordinary Means of Grace for the
Propa-
C 2
+ The particular Fund towards the Converfion of Negroes
confifts at prefent only of 2500 l. in Old South Sea Annuities,
and 131 l. 15 s. 4 d. & in the Hands of the Treaſurer.
20
ASERMON before the Society
Propagation of the Gofpel, and muft with Pati-
ence wait the Lord's Time for Succefs, And
therefore through Honour and Dishonour, through
evil Report and good Report, as Deceivers and yet
true, as having nothing, and yet poffeffing all Things,
the Society will continue to do good and lend, look-
ing for nothing again, as true Children of their
Father which is in Heaven, who maketh his Sun to.
fhine on the Evil and on the Good, and fendeth his
Rain on the Fuft and on the Unjust.
Full of that Charity which hopeth and endureth
all Things, this Society hath been a great Number
of Years in effectually converting to Chriftianity
the largeſt and once moſt barbarous Tribe of theſe
Indians, the Mobocks; but to the very great Satif-
faction of the Society, there is now a regular-
Chriſtian Congregation of 500 of them, under the
Paſtoral Care of a very worthy Miffionary who
ſpeaks their Language, the Son of a Miffionary,
born among them as it fhould feem to bring them
into the Church, and the Chief of them are, fo
well inftructed, as to be able to teach others alfo,.
one of the Sachems being become a School-mafter
in one of their Towns, and another Indian in a
Second, to train up the Children in the true Way
which leadeth unto Life.
(
,
And, relying upon God's Bleffing, the Society
are come to a further Refolution to ſend a Miffi-
@nary and School-maſter to the Moskito Indians, a
numerous
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
21
numerous People, that may be called a Nation,
living on one Side of, and in the Iflands of the
Bay of Honduras in the West-Indies; upon Infor-
mation that they are much civilized by their
Commerce with the Iſland of Jamaica, and have
feveral Englishmen refiding among them, and have
put themſelves under the Protection, and call
themſelves Subjects of the Crown of Great Bri-
tain, and are very defirous of being united to it
in Religion and Government: May God give a
Bleffing to this, and all the other pious Endeavours
of this Society, to open the Eyes of the Blind, and
to turn them from Darkness to Light, and from
the Power of Satan unto God, that they may re-
ceive Forgiveness of Sins, and an Inheritance
among them that are fanctified by Faith in our Lord
Jefus Christ..
Moft remarkable is the Prophefy of the great
Anceſtor of this poft-diluvian World, concerning
the Fate of his Pofterity; * Curfed be Canaan,
a Servant of Servants fhall he be to his Brethren.
This the poor African Negroes of his Race prove
in their hard Slavery to their great. Sorrow fulfil-
led.
| Bleed be the God of Shem, and Canaan fhall
be his Servant. God was pleafed very early to
ſhew Favour to the Children of Shem, by vouch-
fafing to enter into a Covenant with and bleſs
Abraham and his Pofterity, to whom he ſubjected:
* Gen. ix. 25. 1 Gen. ix. 26..
the
22
A SERMON before the Society
the Canaanites, and gave their Land for an Inheri-
tance; but above all, by granting him the mighty
Favour, that the Meffiab, the Great Saviour of the
World, fhould fpring from his Seed according to
the Fleſh.
}
God fhall enlarge Japhet, and he shall dwell
in the Tents of Shem, and Canaan fhall be his Ser-
vant. The European Pofterity of Japhet have
greatly enlarged themfelves in America, and the
unhappy Children of Canaan are moſt certainly
their Servants there; but by which of the Sons
of Noah's Pofterity thofe fpacious Countries were
peopled, for of them was the whole Earth over-
Spread, I fhall not take upon me to determine
Various and unfatisfactory are the Conjectures
concerning this; but two Parts of this Prophefy
being fulfilled therein, give me Leave, till the
contrary be proved, to fuppofe the third Part alfo
to have received its Completion in it, and that
we there dwell in the Tents of Shem.
:
But whether in good Truth this Prophefy re-
lates to us or no, there are other which do; the
great Evangelical Prophet ſcarce oftener mention-
ing the Enlargement of Chrift's Kingdom, and
the coming in of the Gentiles, than he ſpeaks of
their Ifles; * The Ifles and all the Inhabitants
thereof, are to fing unto the Lord a new Song, and
his Praife from the End of the Earth.
+ Gen. ix. 27. I v. 19. V. Bocharti Phaleg.
xlii. 10.
Ifaiah xlix. 1.
The
Illes
* Iſaiah
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
23
they are to wait upon
No doubt, theſe
Ifles are to liften unto him,
bim, and trust in bis Arms.
Prophefies relate to the coming in of the lands
into Chrift's Religion in their primary: Senfe, but
they may well bear a ſecond, and be interpreted of
the Uſe which God fhall make of the Inhabitants
of the Ifles, in carrying the glad Tidings of Salva-
tion with them, when they go down to the Sea in
Ships, and occupy their Bufinefs in great Waters
even to the Ends of the Earth, which will one
Day be filled with the Knowledge and Glory of the
Lord, even as the Waters cover the Sea.
How far the Society of this land for the Pro-
pagation of the Goſpel in Foreign Parts fhall be
happy Inftruments of promoting this. Decree
of Heaven, is known to Him only who hath
made it; but from the fure Word of Prophefy
we know, that in God's good Time it will come
to paſs, that * from the Rifing of the Sun even unto
the going down of the fame, God's Name ſhall be
great among the Gentiles, and in every Place In-
cence ſhall be offered unto his Name, and a pure
Offering.
It hath been much taken Notice of, that the
Light of the Goſpel hath taken the fame Courſe
with the great Luminary its Emblem, that this
Sun of Righteousness firft arofe with Healing in its
Wings in the Eaſt, and beginning at Jerufalem in
its
+ Ifaiah li. 5.
* Malachi i. II.
24
ASERMON before the Society
its Journey Weftward, hath for fome time ſhone
on the American Strand. And it is not unworthy
of Notice, that its Good Will towards Men im-
proves and poliſhes the Countries bleffed with
its Prefence by the Introduction of the liberal Arts
and Sciences, and all other uſeful Knowledge
where it finds them not; and there is an happy
Proſpect of the Society's being inftrumental thereto
by the Means of an * Honourable Perfon, who ex-
celled in, and therefore knew the true Value of
theſe Things himſelf, and hath bequeathed two
Plantations in Barbados in Truft to them, for
the Support of Profeffors, and of Scholars under
them, to be bred there to Religion and Learning,
and when properly qualified, to be ſent forth not
only to preach the Gospel, but to heal all manner of
Sickneſs and all manner of Difeafe among thefe
People, not by Miracle, which they will not pre-
tend to, but under the Bleffing of Heaven through
their Knowledge in the Healing Arts, which by
the wife Order of the Donor the Scholars are to
be taught, that they may endear themselves to the
People, and have the better Opportunities of doing
Good to their Souls, whilst they are taking Care of
their Bodies. God alone knows, how great ` a
Light this little Fire, which is now kindling up,
and under the Direction of this Society juft ready
to
* The late General Codrington, Governour of the Leeward
Inlands.
for the Propagation of the +
25
Gospel,
to blaze forth, may afford; and whether, as Part
of the Reward for their well-doing, the Society
are not marked out by his Providence to have the
Honour of improving, poliſhing, and bleffing
theſe remote Weſtern Parts of the World.
Ít
may be Matter of Surprize, but will at the
fame Time be Matter of Joy to all good Men,
to confider the many great and expenfive Chari-
ties, which are carried on by voluntary Contribu-
tions in this Nation; and it will hardly feem cre-
dible to mean and contracted Minds, that they
can long ſubſiſt together; but it is moſt certain in
Fact, that hitherto they have rather helped than
hurt one another; one good Man's Zeal hath
kindled another's, until the catching Heavenly
Flame, through the Divine Bleffing on it, hath
fpread it felf far and wide, and found fufficient
Fuel to feed and to ſupport it.
It will ever be acknowledged with all Thank-
fulneſs by this moft grateful Society, that as often
as through their Zeal for Chrift's Sake they have
gone fo far in complying with the preffing Peti-
tions of the Americans for ſpiritual Affiſtance, as
to have quite emptied, or even more than emptied
their Purſe to help them, the good Providence of
God hath wonderfully filled it again.
The Charities of this great City fet on a Hill are
a Light to the whole Nation, and the fhining Exam-
ple of her generous Contributions in the late gene-
D
ral
4.6.
A SERMON before the Society
*
ral Collection for the good Ufes of this Society,
provoked very many to. Love, and to that good. Work
infomuch that they feemed friving together for
the Faith, who fhould give moft towards the Pro-
pagation of it in Foreign Parts.
૧
No doubt this and the many other charitable
good Deeds of this Metropolis, are one great
Means, under God of averting thoſe heavy: Judg-
ments, which for the crying Sins of her. People
The moſt juſtly has deferved; that for a great
Number of Years, neither Plague, Pestilence, nor
Famine, bath brought Wafting and Destruction
within her Borders; but Peace hath continued
within her Walls, and Plenteousness within her Pa-
laces. Her great Charity hath covered, and God of
his Mercy grant, that it may continue to cover the
Multitude of her Sins.---. Warm'd by my Subject.
I am launching out too far, but it is difficult to
ftop on fo affecting a Theme, though much more.
difficult to express the noble Acts of the Lord con-
cerning it, and shew forth all his Praife. Had
this Councel been of Men, before this Time it had
been brought to nought; its Beginnings were but
Small, yet bath it far encreas'd, and from the Suc-
cefs with which God hath bleffed it, we have juft
Reafon to conclude, that it is from above, and com-
eth down from the Father of Lights, from whom eve-
ry good and perfect Work doth proceed; and with
bim is no Variableness neither Shadow of turning
1 $
¿
and
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
27
and that he will continue to be gracious, and water
with the Dew of his heavenly Benediction the
good Seed fown, till it ſhall have taken deep Root,
and in Time fill the American World.
Infpired from above, and all on Fire with the
heavenly Flame, St. Paul could wiſh to ſpend and
be spent for the Gospel of Chrift, and in preaching
of him, where Chrift before had never been named.
May his great Example influence this venerable So-
ciety to perſevere in exerting themſelves in the
Proſecution of the fame moft Chriftian Defign;
that they may go on, till both their Charity and
their Patience ſhall have their perfect Work, for
they and all the other generous Contributors to this
well-doing will moft certainly reap in due Seafon,if they
faint not; the rich, who caft in out of their abun-
dance into this Treafury of God, will reap a Bleffing
from him in this World, to the Increaſe of their
Stores; and the poor Widow's Mite, like her Cruiſe
of Oil, will fupport a Prophet, and herſelf too.
And moreover an Entrance fhall be adminiftred to
us all abundantly into the everlasting Kingdom of
God, and at length we shall all become one Fold un-
der one Shepherd Jefus Christ our Lord. To whom
with the Father, and the Holy Ghoft, be afcribed
all Honour and Glory. Amen.
D 2
An
1
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
al pro
FOR THE
"
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
?
AT THEIR
܂ܪ
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE 1 m,
Parish Church of ST. MARY-LE-Bow
嫚
​On Friday February 21, 1745
By the Right Reverend Father in God, ::
Matthew Lord Bishop of Bangor.
LONDON:
Printed by EDWARD OWEN in Amen-Corner.
And Sold by J. ROBERTS in Warwick-Lane;
and A. MILLAR, at Buchanan's Head in the
Strand. MDCCXLV.
}
L
1
*
Trip
$
富
​{
14
+
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the Society
for the Propagation of the Gofpel in
Foreign Parts, in the Veſtry-Room of
·St. Mary-le-Bow, on Friday the 21t
Day of February, 1745-6.
A
GREED, That the Thanks of the
SOCIETY be given to the Right
Reverend the Lord Biſhop of Bangor,
for his Sermon preached this Day before
the SOCIETY, and that his Lordſhip be
defired to deliver a Copy of the ſame
to the SOCIETY to be Printed.
•
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary!
}
1
す
​KULL EPS FILLSis (It)
་
John, Ch. viii. V. 32.
And ye shall know the Truth, and the
Truth ball make you free.
HESE Words will hold equal-
ly juſt in a general and enlarged
Senfe, as in that particular one
upon which they were ſpoken;
there being that clofe Connec
2018
tion between Truth and Liber-
ty, whether Natural, Religious, or Civil,
or Civil, that the
Knowledge and Practice of the one is the only
real Means of attaining and preferving the other.
The Jews indeed, who, were at this Time at-
tending upon our Saviour's Doctrine, feem not to
be aware of this, any more, than of the imme-
$5
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SAILY.
diate Meaning of his Promile
urd
AIL.
91 2010 1 {
of Freedom
from Sin, and all the Mifery confequent upon
Sin to thofe who fhould receive the Truth.
>
10.
A 2
The
3
4
A SERMON before the Society...
ہو
The great Favour God had fhew'd that Nation,
in making them his peculiar People, together with
ſome imaginary Privileges they had conceiv'd to
belong to them, as being of the Seed of Abraham;
;.
and the Expectation of a Meffiah to come about
that Time, and reſtore again the Kingdom to
Ifrael, feem to have taken fuch Poffeffion of their
Minds, as to blind them againſt every Truth,
wherein the reft of Mankind were to have an
equal Share and Benefit with themſelves. We
find in particular, that they immediately began to
cavil at the Words of the Text, anfwering, We
be Abraham's Seed, and never were in Bondage to
any Man; How fayeft thou, ye shall be made free ?
And upon our Saviour's explaining his Meaning
a little farther," That whosoever committeth Sin,
is the Servant of Sin, That the Servant could
bave no Claim to the Inheritance; but the Son, and
fuch as by receiving bis Doctrine fhould be adopted
into Cobeirship with him: And farther, that if they
were the Children of Abraham, they ought to ſhew
it by doing the Works of their Father Abraham, by
Faith and Obedience. We find, I fay, this was
fo far from removing their Prejudice, and opening
their Eyes to the Truth, that they were rather the
more enraged, contumelioufly calling him a Sa-
maritan, poffeffed with the Devil; and, at the
Cloſe of the Conference, took up Stones to caft
at him, in order to deſtroy him. So great is the
D.
*
Power
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
5
}
M
Power, of, Prejudice in darkening the Underſtand-
ing againſt the plaineſt Truths, and moulding every
Thing "propos'd according to the Apprehenfions
we have pre-conceiv'd And fo fatal was this one
Prejudice to that unhappy People, as to drive
them into Meaſures deftructive of their Happiness
as Men; and of that national Profperity alfo,
which they ſo much doated on as Members of
'the Commonwealth of Ifrael.
$
}
}
Now what I' propofe in the following Diſcouſé,
is to thew, firſt," "That Truth is the Parent of Li-
berty: And, fecondly, That in the Knowledge
and Practice of the Chriftian Truths in particular,
`confifts the moſt perfect Freedom: From whence
fuch Reflections will be naturally fuggeſted, by
way of Application, as are fuitable to the Occafion
of our prefent Meeting. For, furely, if the Về-
nerable Society, before whom I ftand, in pro-
pagating the Gofpel of Jefus Chrift, are the In-
ftruments of conveying Truth and Liberty among
Savages entirely ignorant of the firſt Principles of
both; and of reforming others, who by the
Abuſe are in Danger of lofing every real Advantage
of them, their Undertaking muſt appear laudable
and great, even upon the mere Principles of
human Genérofity, if the Scriptures had not
bound it as a Duty upon them: An Undertaking,
worthy of that Great Prince, from whom our Charter
is derived Worthy of the Care and Affiſtance of
·
+ A
*
his
}
}
>
A SERMON before the Society
1
his incomparable Succefors, our Sovereigns; under
whom the Cauſe of Truth and Liberty hath been
UO
18
more ſtudied, better underſtood, and more unin-
terruptedly enjoyed among us, than perhaps it ever
was in any other Nation upon Earth. Ye shall
know the Truth, and the Truth shall make you
free.
*
$
+
}
And, firft; That Truth in general is the Pa-
rent of Liberty, will appear at the firſt View to
every one, who has the Nature of Liberty fairly
ftated to him : Which confifts not in the Power
of doing every Thing we lift; of following the
Dictates of our depraved Appetites and overbear-
ing Paffions; not in the Privilege of acting what-
even any fallacious Suggeſtions from within, or
fpecious Promifes from without, may tempt us to;
but in the Privilege and Power of doing whatever
tends to answer the End of our Creation; of
compaffing all thofe Means that are conducive to
our refor.
laſting Happineſs.
r
1.
4
>
६
Were the Bulk of Mankind fet free from all Re-
Atraint, and every Individual at Liberty to do
just what he pleaſed; tis obvious to fee that end-
lefs Mifery, I'm afraid I might fay, the Destruc-
tion of the human Species, would foon enfue.
The Want of Abilities in fome to diſcover what
is really beft for them; the Want of Leifure in
others duly to confider it; and the general Impe-
tuofity of their Paffions in moſt, whilſt young and
unexperienced
{
1
for the Propagation of the Gospel..
:7
unexperienced in the Heat of their giddy Age,
would drive forward the Bufinefs ofthe World
into fuch a Scene of Diförder and Confuſion, as
would make every one wiſh to have fome Reſtraint
laid upon human Actions, that did not wish to be
miferable: And fuch Reſtraint therefore can never
in Reaſon be deerh'd any Abfidgment of true Li
berty, which every one that can forefee the hurt
ful Confequences of any Action, would volunta-
rily lay upon himſelf.
Z
..
*
•
}
}
>
►
If then to Creatures, ignorant in many Inffances
of what is really beſt for them; fallible in moſt,
and on every Side befet with Frailty and Imper
fection, fome Rule of Action be neceſſary, the
Happinels of every Individual, as near as poſſible,
muſt in Reafon be the only Mark to which this
Rule ſhould be directed And if Happineſs be
the Meaſure and Boundary of our Liberty, it is
Truth alone, which can difcover wherein this
Happiness contine. For as Truth arifes out of
the unchangeable Relations and Differences of
Things, which confutute Good and Evil, and
as the Knowledge of the Truth (am fpeaking
of natural Truth only) confifts in the Conformity
of our Ideas with thofe Differences and Rela
tions the more we know of theſe, the more
clearly ſhall we difcern between Good and Evil,
the more perfect ſhall we be in the Knowledge
of the Way that leads to Happinefs, and of Coutré
نة
{
น
the
-8
A.SERMON, before the Society.
Ja
**
&
the freer Agents. For, to illuftrate this Matter
by one plain Inftance: Suppofe any one, ready to
perish, with Hunger, were to have two Things
ſet before him, equally inviting to his Eye and
Taſte but with this, Affurance, that one of them,
if he happen'd to take it, would prove Paiſon to
himWould any one in fuch. Circumftances va-
lue, himſelf upon his Liberty of having two Things
to chufe Would he not be thankful to have his
Choice reſtrained to that alone, which would give
him Nouriſhment? Would he not think any poor
Wretch, that had the plaineſt Morfel to fatisfy his
Hunger; a much freer, Agent than himself, for-
tur'd between the Anxiety of a terrified Mind,
and Preffure of a craving Appetite? Undoubtedly
he would; and eſteem that Man to be his Saviour
and Deliverer, who fhould give him a certain
Touchstone to diftinguifh his Food from Poifon.
Thus it is in the natural, State of Things that
Truth muft come in to our Aid to make ús
free.
#
***
the
譬
​The fame Reaſoning, with Allowance for dif
ferent Circumftances, applied to the Liberties of
Men, either in their Religious or Civil Capacity,
will hold good. The Happiness of Man, with
Regard to his Religious State, confiſts in being
affured of the Favour of that Supreme Being, who
made and governs all Things And therefore the
Knowledge of thofe Divine Truths, which can
work
A
ነ
for the Propagations of the Gofpel,
9
:
1
work this Affurance of Mind: for him, fand keep
his, Confcience void of Offence, can alone give, Re-
ligious Freedom of Spirit to him ¡Again; The
Happineſs of Man in his Civil Capacity confifts.
in the flouriſhing State of that Community, where-
of he is a Member, together with the fecure En-
joyment of his Life and Property, equally with
his Fellow Citizens, The Laws therefore made
for procuring thefe good Ends are the Truths,
which every Member of a Community ought to
know and govern his Actions-by, fo far as every
private Man's Actions are under their Direction:
And in Proportion as thefe Laws are wifely calcu
lated for the true Intereft of the Community;
impartially executed by thofe in Authority; and
chearfully obeyed by every Subject, the Liberties
of any People will be more or lefs perfect and fe-
cure. So that in whatever View we confider Man;
the more perfect Knowledge he has of the Truth,
and the more teadily he adheres to it, the freer
he will be. La va do un
And from hence, as I take it, from confidering
the Connection between Truth and Liberty, we
may form to ourſelves the beft Notion we are
capable of forming of the Liberty of the Supreme
Author of all, who, whilft he directs himſelf.
uniformly in all his Doings to nothing but what
is perfectly juft and good, is for that very Reaſon
the moſt perfectly free. The infinite Wiſdom of
B
10.
God
+
10
•
A SERMON before the Society
God muſt preſentì dll. Truth before him in one
View; whence it is impoffible for us to conceive,
that he should ever err in the Choice of what is
right, unless we could fuppofe him to purfue
Meaſures, deſtructive of his own Perfections and
Happineſs. The Imperfection of human Liberty
arifes from the narrow Extent of Man's Know-
ledge, and his compound Nature, which often
accafion his incurring the Prophet's Woe, of cal-
ling Good Evil, and Evil Good; of putting Bitter
for Sweet, and Saveet for Bitter. The perfect
Wiſdom of God, on the contrary, fhews him all
Things invariably juft as they are; and as his
Nature is pure and unmix'd, he cannot poffibly
be fuppos'd to have any Byafs upon his Will, but
from the Truth. Righteous is God in all his Ways,'
and Holy in all bis Works. Whence I would ob
ſerve, that as the Truths reveal'd from Heaven,
if any ſuch there be, must be the maft perfect
Rule of human Actions; fo is it a trong Pre-
fumption in Favour of any Truths, that they do
come from God, when the vifible Tendency
of them all is to complete the Happinefs of his.
Creatures, and make them free indeed. And that
this is the Perfection of the Revelation of Jefus
Chrift, I fhall endeavour briefly to fhew in the
fecond Place. That in the Knowledge and Prac-
tice of the Chriftian Truths confifts the moft per-
feet Freedom.
J
९
Now
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
II
A
- Nów if Happiness be the Meafure of human
Liberty, as hath been above obferv'd; the Quef
tion will be, Whether the Gofpel Truths diſcover
wherein the Perfection of human Happiness con-
fifts, and the Way to attain it. And this they
do, first, by removing our Doubts, and rectifying
any Miſtakes we might otherwife entertain about
it: And; fecondly, by giving a clear intelligible
Rule of Action for the juft Conduct of our Lives
and Converfation.
There is not any one Point, wherein the an-
cient Maſters of Réafon have differ'd more, than
in fettling wherein human Happiness confifts.
Some place it in the Enjoyments of the Mind;
others in thoſe of the Body alone; and fome in
both; and that with great Variety, according as
they were influenced by Difference of Genius or
Temper, or the School of Philofophy wherein
they had been bred. Infomuch that we are told
by * St. Auſtin, from an accurate Roman Author,
that if the ancient Philofophers were to be divided
into Sects, according to all the Differences to be
found amongst them upon this fingle Head, the
Number
}
B. 2
*
* St. Aug. de Civit. Dei, Lib. XIX. Cap. I. P. 540.
Tom. VII. Marcus Varro in Libro de Philofophiâ. Taṁ
multam Dogmatum varietatem diligenter & fubtiliter fcrutatus
advertit, ut ad ducentas octoginta octo fectas, non quæ jam
effent, fed quæ effe poffent, adhibens quafdam differentias fa-
cillimè perveniret.
12
ASERMON before the Society
*
་
€
Number would amount to very near three Hun--
dred. And no Wonder, that they who were en
tirely ignorant of the real Source of human Mi-
fery, fhould be at a Lofs in difcovering the true
Method; to redrefs it. They all faw clearly that
Man, in his prefent State of Imperfection, frail, and
abounding even from within himſelf with num--
berlefs Caufes of Evil; and dorrow, could never
have originally come thus framed out of the Hand's
of a perfect Creator. One of them calls him the
Child of a Step-mother,, rather than of a kind'
indulgent Parent :: Others imagin'd, the Body to
be a Prifon, into which the Soul was committed
by way of Puniſhment for Tranfgreffions commit-
ted in fome former State; whence the Opinions-
of Pre-existence, and Tranfmigration of Souls; the
Parents of infinite. Superftition and Folly in the:
Pagan Worship, took Rife, and prevailed gene--
ally among the Followers of Pythagoras and
Plato. And yet it is obfervable, that whenever a
Ray of Light fhone in upon the Mind through.
all this Ignorance and Darkness, fo as to let the
Truth in upon it, we find the Soul naturally fear
ing towards Heaven, and placing all her folid.
Hopes of Happineſs there. The wiſeſt and moſt
admired among the Ancients agree, that Happineſs
is only to be acquired by living according to the
Rules of Virtue; which Plato and his Followers
derive from God, and therefore found their Hap-
3.1.
1
pinefs
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
?
pineſs in the Love and Imitation of God: But yes
they do this with fuch feeming Diffidence and
Mifgivings, as to difcover plainly that their Minds
were far from being clear from Doubts upon this
Head; that the very beſt of them could never
make it the uniform Principle of their own Ac-
tions, and much lefs bind it upon the Wills and
Confciences of other Men.
4
And how then do the Scripture Truths come in
Aid to clear away our Doubts in this Refpect?
Why? There we have a plain; intelligible Account
of the Original, the Fall, and Redemption of
Mankind. Thence we learn, that God made Man
upright, but he found out many Inventions. That
the firſt Man was deluded by the Father of Lies
to make a forbidden Trial of that Faculty, where-
in the Perfection of his Nature confifted, and by
the Abuſe of his Liberty, to entail Corruption,
and Sin and Sorrow and Death upon all his Pofte-
rity. For by Man, fays St. Paul, Sin entered into
the World, and Death by Sin; and fo Death paf-
fed upon all Men, for that all have finned. Whence
alone it would be almoſt natural to conclude, that
as Falfehood was the original Caufe of Man's lo-
fing that
pure and natural Liberty wherewith he
was created; fo Truth fhould be the only Means
of reſtoring it. And this Truth was what the
Son of God came to declare to the World; to
redeem Men from the Slavery of Sin, and Bonds
·
off
•
14
A SERMON before the Society
$
+
>
wC
of Corruption, into the glorious Liberty of be
coming the Children of God, and by bringing Life
and Immortality to Light through, the Gospel, to
clear away thoſe Doubts, which had puzzled the
wifeft of the Gentile Philofophers; and afcertain
by an expreſs Promife of God, and that in Right
of a Purchaſe made by his only Son, a State of in-
finite Happineſs to all, who should think it worth
the Pains of attaining; That as in Adam all die,
fo in Chriſt all ſhould be made alive. To this Point
all the doctrinal Truths of the Goſpel tend; to
give Men a juſt Idea of their own State, and fub-
lime Notions of the infinite Juftice and Mercy of
God in his Difpenfations towards them; to wean
their Affections from Things on Earth, where
they are every Moment made fenfible, that they
have no abiding City, and to raiſe them up to
Heaven, where having God for their Hope and
Truft, they may preferve a Freedom and Serenity
of Spirit amidst all the Care and Trouble and
Sorrow, which, in paffing through this Vale of
Mifery, they muſt occafionally expect to meet
with. But neither is this all ;
The fhewing and declaring unto Men, where-
in their true Happineſs conſiſted, might only have
been a Means of encreafing their Doubts, and
multiplying their Fears about it, if, at the fame
Time, the Method of attaining it had not alfo
been reveal'd: And therefore Chrift declares
·
}
himſelf
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
15
}
himſelf to be the Way, as well as the Truth and
Life, The Excellency of the Chriftian Religion
appears in nothing greater than in the practical
Truths of it, Truths adapted to every Station
and Condition of human Life, and deliver'd with
fuch Perfpicuity and Plainneſs, that the meaneft
Capacity cannot but underſtand, and the higheſt
receive and admire them,
Whoever looks into the Scriptures with an un-
prejudiced Mind, and an Heart open to receive
Inftruction, will find his Duty, in every Article
and Relation of Life, defcribed to him in fuch a
Manner, that his Reafon cannot but approve;
and most of the admired Maxims of Morality,
that lie ſcatter'd up and down in numberlefs Vo-
lumes of the Ancients, reduced into one View;
deliver❜d pure and unmix'd, and enforc'd by the
Examples of thoſe who taught them. If we are
at a Loſs for our Duty towards the Supreme Au-
thor of all, and in the Mind in Sufpence, but de-
firous of knowing how to pleaſe him; there we
are taught to love God, to imitate him, to obey
him, and inſtead of other fuperftitious Sacrifices,
to offer up with our Prayers our Souls and Bodies
to be a living Sacrifice, holy and acceptable before
him. With Regard to ourſelves we are taught to
be e temperate in all Things; to keep our Appe-
tites and Affections in due Subjection to our Rea-
ſon, and to uſe this World as not abufing it. And
with
1
16
A SERMON before the Society
t
4
T
with Regard to our Neighbour, that is, to all
Mankind, What Leffons of Humanity and Bene-
volence, of Juſtice and Charity, do we meet with
almoſt in every Page? And that not only in ge-
-neral, and applicable to our Uſe, as we are Men,
and partaking of one common Nature with
others; but diverfified according to the various
Relations of Society, which the Neceffities and
Comforts of Life oblige Mankind to diftribute
themſelves into for each others Support: Infomuch
that if every one could be prevailed on to act
his Part in Life according to the Truths taught
him in the infpir'd Writings, there would be little
Want of other Laws to reftrain the Generality of
human Actions, and hardly any Addition: capable
of being made to the Happineſs of human Socie-
ty and Friendship, but. according to that of St.
James; If every Man looking into the perfect Law
of Liberty, and being not a forgetful Hearer, but
Doer of the Work, would abide therein, he would
be bleſſed in his Deed. But further; The Chrif-
tian Truths do not only point out the reaſonable
Reſtraint, neceffary to be laid upon our outward
Actions; but they go to the very Bottom, and
fecure the Root and Foundation of human Hap-
pineſs and Liberty, by regulating the Thoughts
of our Hearts, and giving Peace and Tranquillity
of Mind to thofe, who will be govern'd by them.
All Liberty and Happineſs, when duly confi-
der'd, is principally feated in the Mind. For
though
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
though it be impoffible, under the Condition of
the prefent Union of Soul and Body, but they
muſt in ſome Meaſure be mutually affected with
´each other's Sufferings; yet confidering the Sere-
nity of Mind which a due Government of the
Paffions will in all Circumftances be attended
withal; and the Freedom of Spirit, which an in-
nocent Heart will always procure, even in Dan-
ger, Confinement, or any other Sufferings of the
Body; it is this which true Wiſdom will always
alpire after: And if this be the true Wiſdom,
which alone can make us free; Where can we
hope to find it fo fully and effectually tranſcribed
as in the Chriftian Inftitutes? The Chriftian is
confeffedly the Religion of the Heart: The firft
and principal Aim of it is to cleanſe the corrupt
Affections; and the choiceft Bleffings are here
promiſed to the pure in Heart, the humble, the
meek, the merciful, and fuch as hunger and thirſt
after Righteoufneſs. And not only fo, but here
we may find every ufeful Paffion directed to its
proper Object, and every mischievous one correct-
ed. Our Love and Joy, our Hope and Fear, are
directed up to that Great God; who, if we ever
reflect either upon the Bleffings or Mifery incident
to human Life, we must find to be our only Sup-
port and Refuge, the Rock of our Confidence
and Truft; and in Subordination to him wê are
taught, and that with great Moderation, to exer-
cife them upon thofe Objects, wherewith we are
C
more
18
A SERMON before the Society
*
more immediately converfant. On the other
Hand, the black and turbulent Paffions of Envy
and Pride, of Hatred and caufelefs Anger, are ut-
terly forbidden any Harbour in a Chriftian's
Breaft: And whenever Sorrow happens to be our
Lot, and the greateſt Cauſes of it are multiplied
upon us, we are taught not to be forry like Men
without Hope, but after a Godly Sort, with Pati-
ence and Refignation to the great Difpofer of all
Things. And who then that ever reflects upon
human Nature, nay, that is not an utter Stranger
to what paffes in his own Breaft, does not fee,
that here is the true Plan laid before him of ma-
king himſelf free indeed? For if according to the
Apoſtle St. Peter, of whomfoever a Man is over-
come, of the fame is he brought in Bondage; the
greateſt Danger of our Lofs of Liberty is from
within ourſelves, and the ſtrongeſt Guard wanted
upon the Avenues leading to the Heart; left the
Heart fhould be drawn away by the alluring
Pleaſures of Sin, and by yielding itself up to obey
Sin, become the Servant of Sin unto Death, and
captivated under the fevereft Bondage, that hu-
man Nature can be expos'd to.
P
Seeing then that the Interefts of Truth and
Liberty are fa clofely interwoven with one ano-
ther; How amiable muft the Truth appear in
every View. we can find it? The Diſcovery even
of mere fpeculative Truth, is one of the higheſt
Entertainments of a rational Mind; but when
con-
*
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
19
1
upon
which our
confidered in this View, as that
Liberty, our Happineſs folely depends; the Value
of it is enhanced to a Degree equal to that hid-
den Treaſure, which would induce any prudent
Man to fell all that he has, in order to purchaſe
the Field where he may hope to find it.
▼
On the other Hand, how bafe and diabolical
muſt all Falſehood appear? How vain the Hope
or Pretence of fupporting the Caufe of Liber-
ty by Lying? or the Chriſtian Caufe by legendary
Tales and Falfehood. Liberty wants not any
other Help to maintain it, but a prudent Mind to
diſcern, and honeſt one to preſerve its juſt Boun-
daries; nor the Chriſtian Religion any Gloffes to
make it amiable to him, who will be at the Pains
of perufing the Scriptures with an honeft unpre-
judiced Mind. And therefore if the Abuſes of the
one or of the other (as the beſt Things are liable to be
abuſed) have been a Means of introducing into the
World Licentioufneſs, and a Difregard to what is tru-
ly facred; it will become ſo much the more thoſe,
who retain a real Senfe of Goodnéfs, to be diligent
in the Study, and firm in the Defence and Practice
of whatever is dictated by the Word of Truth.
And for that very Reafon, fecondly; That a
Proficiency in the Knowledge of the Truth is the
firft great Preſervative of our own Freedom, does
it become our Duty to communicate that Know-
ledge, where-ever a Communication of Commerce
opens a Door for the fair and rational Propaga-
C 2
tion
}
20
A SERMON before the Society
The
tion of it. For however reaſonable it may be in
many Inftances to conceal Diſcoveries in fome of
the Branches of Art and Science, for the Benefit
of thoſe who by much Labour and Ingenuity
have been fucceſsful in making them; in Truths,
wherewith the. Happineſs of the whole Species is
moſt intimately connected, the Cafe is quite other-
wife. It is certainly right for thofe, who have it
in their Power, to make the Knowledge of fuch
Truths co-extenfive with their Uſefulneſs.
firft Principles of Generofity are founded in a
Will to communicate all the Good we can to our
Fellow Creatures: Reafons of Equity arifing from
the fociable Nature of Man make it our Duty;·
and Reaſons of Prudence for ftrengthening the
Community in general make it our Intereft to do
it. So that in a mere Philofophical View of
Things, upon a Suppofition that the Goſpel Truths
tend to civilize Mankind; to fhew them in a
fhort View the Perfection of their own Species,
and a Way to Happineſs infinitely preferable to
that of the Beaſts that periſh; the Undertaking
of the Society would be highly reaſonable and be-
coming human Nature. How greatly then are
theſe Reaſons ſtrengthened, when we take into
Confideration the whole Goſpel OEconomy? the
Redemption of Mankind. from. the Captivity of
Sin, through the Mediation of the Bleffed Jefus ;
and the free Gift of Eternal Life to all, who by a
Courſe of wife and virtuous Actions will fincere-
ly
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
21
ly through his Merits endeavour to partake of it?
The Goſpel Truths are manifeftly calculated for
the whole Race of Men.; the great Author of
them had no fooner vanquished Sin, and broke
through the Chains of Death, but he enjoin'd his
Diſciples to go teach all Nations, baptizing them in.
the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of
the Holy Ghoft; or as another Evangeliſt expreſſes
it; Go
ye.
into all the World, and preach the Gospel
to every Creature. So far therefore fhall we be
from lofing any Thing ourſelves in imparting the:
Chriſtian Truths to thoſe who are ignorant of
them, that whatever is laid out to this Purpoſe will:
be moſt amply repaid; and every Stęp we are inſtru-
mental in helping other Men towards Heaven, will
be ſo much advanced in our own Way thither..
t
But, thirdly; The utmoſt Caution will be ne-
ceffary, that in fpreading the Goſpel in Countries,,
where it is either unknown, or very imperfectly.
underſtood, we carry nothing but the genuine
Word of Truth under that facred Cover. Tradi-
tionary Doctrines of Men; legendary Tales, and
pretended Miracles of Saints,, can have no other,
Effect in making Profelytes, than that of the Pha--
rifees of old, to make them twofold more the Chil--
dren of Hell than they were before. And if the Dan-
ger be not altogether fo great to the Profelytes of
Enthuſiaſm, yet to fay nothing of any other Miſchiefs-
arifing from the vifionary Flights of an over-heated
Brain, the Diſciples of fuch Teachers muſt un-..
doubtedly
22
A SERMON before the Society
$
doubtedly ſtand a worfe Chance of having nothing
but the Truth inculcated by them, than by fuch as
are regularly fent, with the plain Scriptures open in
their Hands, and Inftructions to explain them by
the moſt approv'd Comments, upon the most in-
telligible Principles of Learning and Reaſon.
,
And as it is our Duty to propagate nothing but
the Truth, as we ourfelves underſtand it to be
reveal'd; fo ought it to be our Care, lastly,
That we do it in a Manner confiftent with the
natural Rights and Liberties of Mankind; neither
making Religion a Pretence to invade their Pro-
perties, nor the Care of their Souls an Argument
for Cruelty to their Perfons. For as on the one
Hand the Chriftian Revelation interferes not at all
with the Civil Rights and Liberties of Nations;
but leaves them juft where it finds them, recom-
mending, under the Sanctions of Almighty Autho-
rity and Wiſdom, fuch Maxims of Humanity and
Prudence, as are the only Bafis of lafting Profpe-
rity to every People; fo on the other Hand would
it be an infuperable Objection against the Divinity
of the Word of Truth, were there any Thing in
it deftructive of the well Being and Safety of the
human Species. But Thanks be to God, the
Word of Truth we preach is the Word of Free-
dom; of Freedom, not from the Reſtraints of
Law, neceffary to preferve the Peace and Order
of Society; not from the Reftraints of Will, ne-
ceffary to fubdue the inordinate Appetites and
Paffions;
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
23
;
Paffions but of Freedom from the Captivity
of original Sin, and of Inftruction in the Way
to avoid the greateft Evils incident to human Na-
ture, by a reaſonable and right Uſe of our Liber-
ty. Such is the Gofpel the Society is engaged
to ſpread and cultivate in our American Colonies;
and fuch their Manner of doing it, that neither
the Wealthy can take any reaſonable Umbrage at the
Inftruction of their Slaves; nor the Pooreſt be afraid
of coercive Means or Weapons to effectuate what
their Reafon and Confcience cannot affent to.
The Society is open to every worthy and gene-
rous Chriſtian to be chofen a Member for pro-
moting the righteous Work; and their Proceed-
ings open to every Member to bear Witneſs or ob-
ject to them, as they may fee reaſonable Cauſe;
and to be convinced of a juft Application of their
Revenue, whether cafual or certain, to the Pur-
poſes it is given. And if their Succeſs has not been
fo rapid as the moſt fanguine are apt to wifh ; yet
has it been very confiderable and good in that
flow progreffive Way, which Undertakings of
this Nature, conducted by human Prudence, un-
der the ordinary Influence of God's good Spirit,
ufually proceed; eſpecially when dependent upon
free Bounty alone for their Support; and open to
all the Obftructions that the Malice of Infidels can
invent, as well as to thoſe unavoidable Difficulties
which arife from the Diſtance and Circumſtances
of the Countries where the Miffionaries are em-
کھے
+
ploy'd.
24
A SERMON before the Society, &c.
}
ploy'd. Obftructions from wicked Men will, I
doubt not, be for ever overbalanced by the well
temper❜d Zeal and Liberality of the Good. Ob-
ſtructions of the other Sort, arifing from the Dif-
tance of Place, from the Hazard of Winds and
Seas, are no more than what are eafily got over
in carrying on the common Buſineſs of Life; and
what, it is to be hoped, will be gradually leffen'd,
in Proportion as our Colonies flourish, and the
good Work of the Society goes on to be enlarg'd.
Wonderful has been the good Providence of God
hitherto in raifing up Benefactors to enable them
to bear an Expence frequently more than five
Times equal to their certain annual Income: And
who can doubt of the Continuance of the fame
good Providence to us, if we continue to deferve
it? A Readinefs to reform every Abuſe that may
occafionally creep in; and Perſeverance in purſuing
Meaſures that are approv'd both by God and Man;
will naturally produce the Favour of God and Man
in carrying the good Work on to its Perfection.
Let this Mind therefore be in us all, which was
alfo in Chrift Jefus : Whofe Condefcenfion and Suf-
ferings, to complete the Work of our Redemption,
ought certainly to teach and encourage us to be nei-
ther fparing of our Wealth or Pains in holding forth
the Word of Life, to those who are ignorant of it; that
So we may all rejoice together in the Day of Christ, that
we have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.
An
L
>
A
SERMON
RM
*
Preached before the
Incorporated SoCIETY
1
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
?
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Parish Church of ST MARY-LE-BOW,
On FRIDAY February 20, 1746.
By the Right Reverend Father in GoD,
JOHN Lord Biſhop of LINCOLN.
LONDON:
Printed by EDWARD OWEN, in Warwick-Lane ;
And Sold by J. ROBERTS, in Warwick-Lane;
and A. MILLAR, at Buchanan's Head in the Strand.
MDCCXLVII.
}
ہے
*
I
1
}
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the
Society for the Propagation of the
Goſpel in Foreign Parts, in the Veftry-
Room of St Mary-le-Bow, on Friday
the 20th Day of February, 1746-7.
A
AGREED, That the Thanks of
the SOCIETY be given to the
Right Reverend the Lord Biſhop of
Lincoln, for his Sermon preached this
Day before the SOCIETY, and that his
Lordſhip be defired to deliver a Copy of
the fame to the SOCIETY to be Printed.
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary.
1
4
*
UHIT
MATTHEW VI. 10.
Thy Kingdom come.
N the former Part of this Prayer,
which our LORD taught his Dif-
ciples, we defire of our heavenly
Father that his Kingdom may
come→and in the latter Part of it,
we acknowledge his Kingdom eternally exifting,
For thine is the Kingdom, and the Power, and
the Glory, for ever and ever. This alone, with-
out obferving from the Context that it was a
Form given for avoiding vain Repetitions, is
fufficient to point out to us two diſtinct King-
doms, one coæval with the World, and the other
advancing to take place upon Earth.
A 2
That
3
4
A SERMON before the Society
ឆ
*
That Kingdom, in which God rules as Crea-
tor and Governor of the Univerfe, is elegantly
defcribed by David, giving Inftructions to his
Son Solomon for the Building of the Temple:
1 Chron. Thine, O Lord, fays he, is the Greatness, and
the Power, and the Victory, and the Majefty; for
all that is in the Heavens and in the Earth, is
thine. Thine is the Kingdom, O Lord! and Thou
art exalted as Head above all. Both Riches and
xxix. 11.
Luke
ii. 26.
Matt.
iii. 2.
$
Honour come of Thee, and Thou reigneft over all.
The Eſtabliſhment of this Kingdom being the
Subject of our Praiſes, and not of our Prayers,
has no Place among the Petitions, but in the
Doxology.
Out of this everlaſting Empire over Nature,
there was to ariſe an eſpecial Kingdom over the
moral World, clearly foretold by the Prophets,
and ftiled promifcuouſly by the Evangelifts, the
Kingdom of God, and the Kingdom of Heaven.-
Of this there was a general Expectation at the
Time of our Saviour's Appearance in the World.
Good old Simeon waited for this Confolation of
Ifrael; it being revealed to him, that he should
not fee Death, before. he had feen the Lord's Chrift,
or the anointed Prince appointed by God to rule
over this Kingdom. For the Reception of this
Meffiah, his Fore-runner St John the Baptift
preaches Repentance, faying, Repent ye, for the
Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. And St Mark
tells.
}
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
5.
ம்
i. 14, 15.
tells us, that when John was put into Prifon,
Jefus himself came into Galilee, preaching the Mark
Gospel of the Kingdom of God, and faying, The
Time is fulfilled, and the Kingdom of God is at
hand; repent ye, and believe the Gofpel.
We cannot therefore be at a Lofs to know,
that by this Kingdom is meant the State of the
Goſpel. The Perſon who prefides in it, is our
Saviour, the Meffiah; the Laws and Statutes of
it are the Gofpel, and the Subjects, all true Be-
lievers. The Commencement of this Reign is
to be dated foon after the Refurrection of our
Bleffed Lord, when he afcended into Heaven,
and took Poffeffion of the Kingdom, by fitting
on the right Hand of God; a figurative Expref-
fion of all Power and Rule over the Church
being committed to Him. And the Exercife
of this Power ſhall remain in the Hands of the
Meffiah, till all his Enemies fhall be fubdued,
and Death itſelf deftroyed. Then cometh the 1 Cor.
End, faith St Paul, when the Son fhall re-deli-
ver up this Mediatorial Kingdom to God the
Father.
The natural and plain Meaning then, of de-
firing our heavenly Father that his Kingdom
may come, is, that by his Grace the Chriftian
Religion may be propagated, fupported, and
eſtabliſhed in the World. It is aiding by our
Prayers that great and good Work which this
Venerable
XV. 24.
6
A SERMON before the Society
John
Venerable Society is incorporated by Charter to
promote; and which they execute with Fide-
lity and Zeal, as far as their Province reaches,
and Circumſtances admit of.
But our Prayer goes farther: For we pray
for a Succeſs beyond the Reach of human Abi-
lities to command, that Men may not only
profeſs the Chriſtian Religion, but that we and
they may be in Reality what we profefs our-
felves, by living righteouſly, foberly and godly
in this preſent World, walking worthy of the
Vocation wherewith we are called, and having
our Converſation fuch as becomes the Goſpel of
Chrift. For our Saviour tells us that his King-
xviii. 36. dom is not of this World, or viſible to Man's Eye;
that it cometh not with Obfervation; neither ſhall
they fay, Lo here, or lo there; but the Kingdom
of God is within us; confifting, as the Apoſtle
fays, not in Word, but in Power, in Righteous-
nefs, and true Holiness. It is a fpiritual King-
dam erected in the Hearts of Men; and where
it does not reach the Heart effectually to influ-
ence the Paffions and Life, there it is not: It
is abſent from the Place where it ought to be,
and a proper Subject of every one's daily Prayer
that it may come there, where it is our Intereft,
preſent and eternal, that it may be found.
Luke
xvii. 20,
21.
1 Cor.
iv. 20.
Ephef.
iv. 24.
Our
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
7
xiv. 8.
Our Prayer goes ftill farther: For if we con-
fider that whether we live or die we are Chrift's; Rom.
and that living and deceafed Chriftians are equal-
ly Members of his Body, and of the fame Com-
munity in his Kingdom; and that there is no
Difference in this Refpect between faithful Souls
here below and thofe above, but that the de-
parted Saints are nearer to the Perſon of their
Prince, and advanced to greater Happineſs, than
their Brethren who are fill in the Fleſh; it is
true genuine Piety to pray for an Acceſs to that
State of Honour and Felicity, which they are
poffeffed of. This being the glorious Part of
the Kingdom, is called by St Paul the Kingdom
of God, by way of Emphafis: For Flesh and 1 Cor.
Blood, faith he, cannot inherit the Kingdom of God; xv. 50.
neither doth Corruption inherit Incorruption.
But this is no diftinct Kingdom, but a diſtinct
Part of the fame Kingdom; the Church Militant
and Triumphant being under the fame Head.
We cannot therefore pray to our heavenly Father
that his Kingdom may come entirely in all its
Parts, without extending our View and Defire
to that immortal State where it chiefly flouriſhes;
nor without praying, agreeably to that devout
Collect of our Church, (on our Friends taking
the important Step from Mortality to Immorta-
lity)" that it may pleaſe God, of his infinite
((
Goodneſs, ſhortly to accomplish the Number
" of
8
A SERMON before the Society
CC
'
"of the Elect, and to haften his Kingdom
"that we, with all thoſe that are departed in
"the true Faith of his holy Name, may have
our perfect Confummation and Bliss, both in
Body and Soul, in his eternal and everlaſting
Glory." This comprehends the Whole of
our Petition, as it flows naturally from a Defire
of the Eſtabliſhment, Enlargement, and Com-
pletion of Chrift's Kingdom.
But take it in its moft limited Senfe, and it
implies at leaſt a Prayer for the Eſtabliſhment
of the Chriftian Religion: And could 'any thing
be more naturally expected, than that our Sa-
viour ſhould infert into the daily Prayer of his
Apoſtles, and firſt Planters of the Goſpel, a
Petition for Succefs in their Undertaking: Efpe-
cially as He ſent them on an Expedition to
overturn at once the ancient Religions of the
World, wherein they could not hope to fucceed,
without an extraordinary Meaſure of divine
Grace.
By this fupernatural Affiftance, the Apoftles
were enabled to propagate the Chriſtian Religion,
fo as to anſwer all the Refemblances to which
our Saviour compares his Kingdom in the Gof-
pel, by a wonderful and ſwift Progrefs. And
though, for the Wickedness of Mankind, it has
fince pleaſed God to ftraiten the Territories of
his Kingdom, yet we have the fure Word of
Prophecy
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
9
xiv. 6.
Prophecy to fupport our Prayer, that the ever- Rev.
lafting Gofpel fhall be preached to every Nation,
and the Kingdoms of this World become the King-- xi. 15.
doms of our Lord and of his Chriſt.
When this great Scheme of Providence will
be accompliſhed, is one of the fecret Things
which belong unto the Lord our God; but as
Chriſtians are the Inftruments in his Hand for
carrying it on, this belongs to us and to our
Children for ever, to do the Words of his Law;
and the Profpect would not appear to us at that
Diſtance it does now, if Men were but fincere
with their God, and their Lives and Actions
conformable to their Prayers.
My Deſign then in the Choice of this Subject
is, to remind Chriſtians of the Duty incumbent
on them from the Tenour of their daily Prayer
to promote the Intereſt of Religion, as well in
general, as in the particular good Work here re-
commended to us.
To petition Heaven for any Grace which we are
not folicitous of obtaining, is manifeftly an Abuſe
of Prayer. For Prayer, properly ſpeaking, is the
Craving of Almighty God fome Good, which
we find ourſelves in want of: But where we
have no Solicitude, we have no Senfe of Want.
A real Senfation of Indigence cannot but excite
Defire proportionable to the Good we ſtand in
B
need
ΙΟ
A SERMON before the Society
need of; and Defire, the Hunger of the Mind,
is a natural Spur to Action. If the Supplicant
then does not uſe his Endeavours to poffefs him-
ſelf of the Subject-Matter of his Prayer, there
is no Reaſon to believe him in Earneft. For
we cannot but obferve what Pains the Ambi-
tious, the Covetous, and the Senfual Part of
Mankind take to gratify their feveral Paffions;
and from their purfuing eagerly the Means of
compaffing their Defires, we judge of the Vio-
lence of them. But were they to fit ftill, and
do nothing towards accompliſhing their End,
we ſhould look upon their Defires to be faint
and languid. For the fame Reaſon, the Inaction
of the Supplicant is but too evident an Indication
of his being infincere with his God: He draws
nigh to Him with his Lips, while his Heart is
far from Him. In Words he defires that to be
done for him, which in Fact he is not ready,
were it within his Power, to do for himself;
fince he proceeds not ſo far as he is able in his
own Cauſe.
Againſt this particular Abuſe of Prayer,
Cambyfes cautions his Son Cyrus in Words to
this Effect. * "That the Gifts of Heaven
"thrive beft in the Hands of the Skilful and
"Induſtrious; and that Men ought always to
"exert their own Talents when they afk any
"Bleffing
* Xenoph. de Cyr. Inft. Lib. I.
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
LI
66.
Bleffing of the Gods in Prayer. That it
" would be an impious Petition to defire to
"excel others in the Military Arts, without
<<
being exerciſed in them; or to carry a Veſſel
"into Harbour, without Skill in Navigation; or
66
to reap Corn, unfown; or to expect the di-
"vine Protection in War, when no human
"Care is taken of their Safety. That all Pe-
"titions of this Kind are contrary to the divine
<<
66.
Laws; and that Heaven may reject ſuch im-
pious Prayers, with the fame Juſtice that Men
"refufe Petitions made to them, which are
contrary to the Laws of their Country."
cr
It is, doubtless, an Impiety to proftrate our-
felves before the High God, in fo folemn an
Act of Adoration as Prayer is, without fuitable
Propenfions and Affections. Humility, Since-
rity, and Ardour are the proper Requifites of
Prayer: Thefe exclude Prefumption and Sloth,
and: fuppofe Action. And if Indolence and Su-
pineneſs be to us Proofs of Infincerity and want
of Ardour in the Supplicant, much leſs can he
impofe upon Omniſcience :- But if a Man be
ever fincere, he will furely be fo with the great
Searcher of Hearts.
Carry thefe Thoughts along with you, as often
as you addreſs yourſelves to God in Prayer, and
they will ſerve for a Rule, to difcern on one
hand the Obliquity of thofe Difpofitions and
B.2
Actions,
I 2
A SERMON before the Society
Actions, which fwerve from the very Intent of
ز
your Petitions
-and on the other hand, to
meaſure the exact Lines of Duty and Proportion
of Obligation, which the Supplicant lays himſelf
under from the Nature of his Prayer.
The
It can ſcarce be a Queſtion, which is more
diſpleaſing to Almighty God, a total Difufe
of Prayer, or a manifeft Abuſe of it.
former implies Neglect, but the latter Con-
tempt: And if a Man would be afhamed to
be thought guilty of flighting infinite Goodneſs
by a conftant. Omiffion of this Duty, has he
not more Reaſon to be apprehenfive of incur-
ring the greater Guilt of performing it irreve-
rently and infincerely?
I will not fuppofe any Chriftians fo diffolute,
as entirely to drop the Ufe of the Lord's Prayer;
but do they fufficiently confider, that as often
as they repeat it, they do with great Solemnity
eſpouſe the Cauſe of Chriſtianity in the Prefence
of God, by defiring the Eſtabliſhment of our
Saviour's Kingdom; and can we be at a Lofs,
by the aforefaid Rule to judge of the Inequality
of their Ways, who do not maintain the fame;
Cauſe in the Face of the World? If they can
fit ftill and hear with Patience the fundamental
Truths of the Gofpel called in Queſtion, and
their holy Faith abuſed-and even be entertain-
ed with blafphemous Parodies and profane Rail-
eries
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
13
eries on Things facred, they muft give us fome
other Rule than that of their Indifference to
form our Judgments by, before we can fuppofe
them in Earneft with God. For in all other
Cafes, where the Credit of their Friends, Repu-
tation, of their Families, or Honour of their
Country is concerned, they do not ſeem to have
that Command of their Paffions, as to be filent
under Reproaches;, nor are they fo tame upon
thefe Occafions, as to become acceffary to their
own Diſgrace by a criminal Unconcernedneſs.
There is not any Indolence like this, but in the
Caufe of Religion.
It is very difficult, I own, to make the gene-
ral Practice of Mankind agree always with their
Profeffion, in the common Affairs of Life. But
if this be acknowledged a Frailty, and a Levity
unbecoming the Dignity of human Nature, even
in Matters of the ſmalleſt Confequence, it can-
not but ariſe to a Degree of Heinoufneſs in
Things of a ſerious and important Concern.
Take, for Inftance, the general Senfe of the
People of this Land, with Refpect to the Ad-
vantages of the free Exerciſe of their Religion,
and a regular Adminiſtration of the Word and
Sacraments; and confider the Expence of Blood
and Treaſure, which it has coft them to fecure
theſe inestimable Bleffings to themſelves and their
Poſterity, and then look into our almoſt de-
ferted
L4
A SERMON before phe Society
Churches, and you will ſee what We they make
of this fo highly valued and dearly purchaſed Prie
vilege:- By not being at the Pains of enjoying
it, they lofe it in Effect; and through a ftrange
Infatuation, fuffer every Shadow of an Excufe to
rob them of that, which they would facrifice
their Lives rather than be deprived of, an Op-
portunity of worſhipping God in the publick
Service of the Sanctuary, without Moleſtation or
Difturbance.
1
Many indeed of thofe, who abfent themſelves
from the publick Worthip, are not to be charg-
ed with a Difagreement between their Principles
and Actions. For, to ftand clear of Diffimula-
tion, they make no great Profeffion of Holi-
nefs; and to avoid being fufpected of Super-
ftition, they run into the oppofite Extreme,
neglecting even to acknowledge the Bounty of
Heaven at their Meals; -and chiefly at thofe
Tables whereon the largest Share of this Bounty
is fpread: But furely, as Superftition is not the
reigning Vice of theſe Times, our Nobility and
Gentry need not be afraid of fupporting the State
by fome Shew of Religion. If they have any
Regard for the common Welfare, they will be
cautious of cafting out thefe laft Remains of
Family-Piety; left by emptying the Veffel of all:
its Ballaft, it might overfet before they are aware
of it.
The
for the Propagation of the Gofpel. འ5
The general Lukewarmneſs, or Indifference
in Matters of Religion, is a melancholy Confide-
ration of itſelf; but more fo, as it is not to be
reconciled with the Integrity required in Prayer.
But bad as this 'State is, there is yet a worfe:
For what an Abufe is it of Prayer, when Men
are not content to remain unactive and unfolici-
tous about the Iffue of their Petitions, but on
the contrary take wicked Pains to defeat the
Succefs of them; when 'fome, who yet profeſs
themſelves Chriftians, labour indefatigably by
their Speech and Writings to difcredit the Pro-
phecies, to depreciate the Miracles, to weaken
´the Evidence and fubvert the Eſtabliſhment of
Chriſtianity, which they would feem by their
Profeffion and their Prayers to fupport. This is
more than Diffimulation or common Prefump-
'tion; it is, in the expreffive Language of the
Prophets, friving with the Almighty: A Sin
againſt which the fevereſt of Woes are de-
nounced.
L
`But of the Abuſe of Prayer enough is ſaid :
Let us now apply the Rule to meaſure the Duty
refulting from our Petition.
St Chryfoftom calls the Lord's Prayer the Pray-
er of the Faithful; intimating, that none can
make a right Uſe of it except true Believers, as
none but ſuch can repeat it with Sincerity. The
Rule
Ifai. xlv.9.
Jer. 1. 24,
16
Society,
A SERMON before the }
筑
​Rule of judging this Sincerity can be no other,
than fuch outward Marks as evidence the Inte-
grity of the Heart: Theſe being the Criterion of
our Duty are as follow.
First, The openly avowing and efpouſing the
Cauſe of Chriſtianity. It is true in Fact, that
the Chriſtian Religion has introduced new Light
into the World, whether the World be fenfible
of it or not. This may be feen clearly from a
remarkable Paffage of Cicero in his ſecond Book
of Laws; where, among others, are thefe Words:
Platoni prorfus adfentior Color albus præcipue
decorus Deo eft - Diviniffima autem dona aves
& formæ ab uno piƐtore uno abfolutæ die bac
Deo placent -*. You have here two of the
greateſt Philofophers of Antiquity, deciding a
Point of the utmoft Confequence to human Na-
ture, What is acceptable and well-pleafing to
Almighty God; and deciding it in a manner
groffly fuperftitious. But will any one prefume
to fay, that under the Prejudices of thoſe Times,
and with no farther Data to proceed upon, than
thoſe confummate Maſters of Reaſon were pof-
feffed of, he ſhould have been wiſer than them
in his Determination. It is one Thing, what
Reafon perceives after it has been affifted by Re-
velation, and another Thing, what it did difcern
before it was enlightened; as it may require the
*Cic. de Leg. Lib. II. 18.
Genius
1
2
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
17
Genius of a Pythagoras, an Archimedes, or a
Newton to diſcover a Mathematical Truth; but
when the Diſcovery is once made, and the in-
termediate Steps pointed out, a moderate Profi-
cient in the Science will foon arrive at the fame
Conclufion. We have no Reaſon then to be
aſhamed of a Religion which has improved the
Underſtanding of Mankind, even of thoſe who
are not grateful enough to acknowledge it, in
Matters of the higheſt Importance -- in the
Knowledge of God, our Relation to Him, and
Expectations from Him. On the contrary, we
have Reaſon to glory in the Goſpel, as it is the
Power of God unto Salvation—to which he has
no Pretenfions who diffembles his Faith- to
which he only has a Title, who publickly avows
it: For him, fays our Saviour, who confeffes me
before Men, him will I alſo confefs before my
Father and the holy Angels; but on the contrary,
he who shall deny me before Men, him will I
deny.
Secondly, Another Mark of our Sincerity in
Prayer is the ſupporting the Intereſt of Reli-
gion by the Influence of a good Example.
The Immorality of Chriftians is made by Un-
believers a plaufible Argument againſt the Truth
and Excellency of Chriftianity. But it is in
Reality no more an Objection to Religion itſelf,
than the Perfecutions of the Church of Rome on
Account
C
* 8
A SERMON before the Society
1
Account of Tranfubftantiation, are an Argument
againſt the Inftitution of the Eucharift. Is the
horrid Abuſe of this holy Rite to be charged on
our Saviour, who intended it as the ftrongeft
Cement of Love among Brethren? or upon
thoſe who pervert the right Ufe of it into an
Occafion of Separation, Rage and Cruelty?
The Laws of Chrift's Kingdom may be holy,
juft and good; and yet the Subjects, by difobey-
ing them, the very Reverſe. But though an
immoral Life be no Argument against Religion
itſelf, it is one againſt the Sincerity of the Pro-
feffor. If his Actions, Profeffion and Prayer be
not of apiece, he cafts a Reproach upon the
Whole, and gives the Infidel an Handle of
making a Scorn both of him and his Religion.
Wherefore, if we will not flatter, but deal faith-
fully with God in our Prayer, we ſhould ſtrive
to fupport the Intereft of Religion, by ſetting a-
good Example of Piety and Virtue, which ope-
rates more powerfully than Precept. Perfons of
fuperior Rank and Influence, fhould awake out
of their Indolence, and diftinguifh the Sunday
at leaſt, by leading their Inferiors into the Houſe
of God. Maſters of Families fhould make their
own Houſes the Schools of Virtue and Difci-
pline, keeping up an Awe of Religion within
their Dwellings. Every Return of their daily
Prayer fhould be to them a fresh Admonition-
of
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
19
?
of their Duty, and a conſtant Reproach to them
for the Neglect of it.
Thirdly, One Evidence more of our Sincerity
in Prayer would be to embrace every Oppor-
tunity of contributing towards the Maintenance
of our holy Faith. Many are the Charities
?
which are fet on foot with this falutary Defign,
and very worthy of our Encouragement; but
none ſtands clearer of Objections than this which
is now propoſed to us. This Society was erect-
ed for Receiving, Managing, and Difpofing of
Charity towards maintaining of Miffionaries,
and making other neceffary Proviſions for the
Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts,
upon Information received, that in many of our
Colonies beyond the Seas, the Provifion for
Miniſters was very mean; and that in others of
them, for lack of a Support and Maintenance of
a Miniſtry, many of His Majefty's Subjects
wanted the Adminiftration of God's Word and
Sacraments, and feemed abandoned, fome to
Atheiſm and Infidelity, and others to Popiſh
Superftition and Idolatry. Now in Proportion
to the Senſe You have of the Benefits of your
Religion, will be your Senſe of others wanting
the fame Advantages. If You efteem Chriftia-
nity as the only Means to render yourſelves ac-
ceptable to God, you cannot but extend your
Compaffion to fuch as are deftitute of theſe
C 2
Means,
*
20
A SERMON before the Society
Means, and lament their Unhappineſs. If You
act confiftently with your Prayers, You wilk
not refuſe to grant them your Benevolence as
far as your Abilities reach, towards delivering
them out of a State in which You would not
be yourſelves for any Confideration in this World;
and towards furniſhing them with thoſe Oppor-
tunities of worſhipping God, which his kind
Providence has bleffed You with.
The Uſefulneſs of this Undertaking the-
State of our American Plantations the Ob-
jects of this Charity, our own Colonies, the
poor Negroes, and the native Indians bordering
on our Settlements; the faithful, frugal, and
wiſe Management of this Society; the Progreſs
that has hitherto been made; the Smallneſs of
the Fund in Proportion to the Extenſiveneſs of
the Work; in a Word, every Topick relating
to this Subject, has been fo fully exhauſted by
abler Preachers who have gone before me, that
I will not attempt the Tafk after them, but
refer You to the elaborate Difcourfes already
publiſhed on this Occafion, and conclude with
the following Obfervation.
That however divided the Chriftian Church
may be in other Points of Doctrine, in this the
Roman Catholicks and Proteftants of all Deno-
minations agree, in defiring our heavenly Father
that his Kingdom may come. In this Point there
is.
for the Propagation of the Goſpel.
21
is no other Difference, but which of us is more
or lefs zealous in demonftrating the Sincerity of
his Profeffion and Prayer:- and forry am I to
be forced to acknowledge, that the Church of
Rome is more indefatigable in ſpreading her Er-
rors and Superftition, than we are in propagat-
ing a pure Religion. I fpeak not this by way of
Reproach to ourſelves, for there are many ſerious
Chriſtians among us who have generouſly affiſt-
ed this good Work, which, though imperfect,
has yet been attended with great Succeſs.
ſpeak it only to awaken a more general Attention
to the Purport of our Prayer; which, in a Peo-
ple naturally honeft and fincere, is all that is
wanting to their Zeal.
I
An
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated So CIETY
FOR THE
༨,
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
Y
AT THE IR
A
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
trad
N THE
I
Pariſh-Church of St., MARY-LE-Bow,
•
ON FRIDAY Fèbruáry 19, 1747,
By the Right Reverend Father in GOD,
SAMUEL Lord Biſhop of St. AS APH.
LONDON:
Printed by EDWARD OWEN, in Warwick-Lane ;
And fold by J. ROBERTS, in Warwick-Lane; and
A. MILLAR, at Buchanan's Head in the Strand.
MDCCXLVIII.
}
3
41
>
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the Society
for the Propagation of the Goſpel in
Foreign Parts, in the Veftry Room of
St. Mary-le-Bow, on Friday the 19th
Day of February, 1747-8,
AGREED, That the Thanks of
the SOCIETY be given to the
Right Reverend the Lord Bishop of
St. Asaph, for his Sermon preached this
Day before the SOCIETY, and that his
Lordſhip be defired to deliver a Copy
of the fame to the SOCIETY to be
Printed.
འ ན་
T
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary.
J ME TO LIK
C
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Haiti baidalli
3
ISAIAH XLIX. 6.
It is a light Thing that thou fhouldeft be
my Servant to raife up the Tribes of
Jacob, and to restore the Preferved
of Ifrael: I will also give thee for a
Light to the Gentiles, that thou mayeft
be my Salvation unto the End of the
Earth.
S the Promiſe of a Deliverer Gen. iii.
from the Dominion of Sin and 15.
Satan was at first made to the
common Parents of the whole
Race of Mankind, by Occa-
fion of the Entrance of Cor- '
ruption into the World; fo all the Defcendants
from them fhould in all Equity feem to have a
A 2
juſt
4
A SERMON before the Society
Gen.
xxii. 18.
juſt Claim to the Benefits of this Deliverance.
Accordingly, in Procefs of Time, when the Pro-
mife was made more particularly, and entailed
úpon the Pofterity of Abraham by Ifaac, at the
fame Time it was accompanied with an ample
Declaration, that the Benefits of it were to be
communicated to all People of the Earth, who
were to be bleffed in it. And therefore, when the
Prophets afterwards fpeak of the Kingdom of
the Meffiah, that Great and Divine Perfon in
whom all the Promifes of God were confum-
mated, and by whom they were to be conveyed
to the World, they are very far from confining
it to the narrow Bounds of Palestine, or to the
fmall Nation of the Hebrews: But they extend
it over all Mankind; they give him the Hea-
then for his Inheritance, and the utmost Parts of
the Earth for his Poffeffion. And amidst all that
Rapture with which thefe holy Men deſcribe the
Splendors and Glories of the Meffiah's Empire,
they very rarely fail expreffly mentioning his Ga-
thering the Heathen under his Government, and
bringing them to God. For it is by his Means,
Mal. i. (as the Prophet Malachi foretells) that from the
rifing of the Sun to the going down of the fame,
God's Name fhall be great among the Gentiles, and
in every Place Incenfe fhall be offered to his Name,
and a pure offering. And in the 42d Chapter of
this Prophecy of Ifaiah, our Prophet does in the
11.
Perfon
**
ง
5
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
1
+
{
1.-4.-6.
Perfon of God declare of his Servant whom he up- If. xlii.
holds, of his Elect, in whom his Soul delights, that is
(as the ancient Paraphraft on this Text expreffes
it, and the moft: learned Rabbies. note) of the
Meffiah, That he shall bring forth Judgment to
the Gentiles, and the Ifles fhall wait for his Law:
and that as he fhall be given as a Covenant to
the People of Ifrael, fo be shall be for a Light to
the Gentiles. And in the Words of the Text it
is ſpoken of as a light Thing, or a ſmall Part of
the Meffiah's Office, to raise up the Tribes of Ja-
cob, and to reſtore the Preſerved of Ifrael. His
Meffage was to be of greater Importance and
much larger Extent; he was to be given as a
Light to the Gentiles, that he might communicate
Salvation to the Ends of the Earth. All which,
as it does fufficiently defcribe the Kingdom of the
Meffiah, as founded on teaching and enlighten-
ing Men's Underſtandings, and reducing them
to the Love and Obedience of the Law of God,
and confequently to be of a Spiritual Nature, and
defigned for the univerfal Good of Mankind,
Gentiles, as well as Jews; fo it does directly
overthrow that fond Imagination of the Jews
concerning a temporal Kingdom, fince it is not
eafy to imagine, what Benefit it could be to the
Gentiles, that a very potent Prince ſhould reign
in Judea, and thence extend his Empire over
all his Neighbours. And it does likewiſe clearly
fhew
6
A SERMON before the Society
'
fhew the Falfenefs of that Pretence of modèrn
Infidels, that the whole Old Teftament concerns
only fecular Matters, and that the Prophecies in
it (if any ſuch there be) refer to the Tranfactions
of the Jews at that Time with their neighbouring
Nations'; and have nothing to do with fuch
ſpiritual Affairs, as they have fince been applied
to; for here we find a great Perfon promifed
many Ages before his Appearance in the World,
and the End of his Coming deſcribed to be
Teaching and Illuminating all Nations, and bring-
ing them to God. It being therefore evident,
that God did from the Beginning propofe to
admit the Heathen World to the Benefit of the
gracious Diſpenſation which he made by his Son,
he having foretold by all his Prophets, that his
Meffiah ſhould be a Light to the Gentiles, the
Meffiah himſelf having declared, when he came
John x. into the World, that he had other Sheep which
were not of the Jewish Fold, who should be ga-
thered to him, and that there should be one Fold
and one Shepherd; he having confirmed it by his
Apoftles, as appears in their Preaching and Wri-
tings; and having fent them forth on the merci-
ful Errand of Enlightening the World, it
may be
proper upon this Occafion to confider,
16.
ift, The Expedience of the Gofpel-Revela-
tion for Enlightening human Reaſon.
2dly,
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7
2dly, To vindicate the Juftice and Goodness
of God, though this Revelation be not as yet
univerfal. And,
3dly, To fhew our frong Obligation, earneſt-
ly to endeavour at a larger Propagation of it.
1A, Let us confider the Expedience, &c. As
there are ſome folid Principles on which trụe Re-
ligion is built; fo the Ignorance, or Want of clear
Knowledge of them, muft needs be attended
either with the utter Deftruction of all Religion,
or with fuch Corruptions of it, as will render it
vain and uſeleſs, or with great Indifference in
the Practice of its Duties. Thefe neceffary Ar-
ticles confift-in the Belief of a God and his Pro-
vidence ; -
in the Knowledge of moral Duties,
and a firm Perfuafion that God requires our Ob-
fervance of them;-in a full Affurance that God
is willing to be reconciled to Sinners upon their
Repentance and Reformation; and laſtly,— in a
lively Hope, that the Practice of Holiness will
finally be rewarded. And yet, as neceffary as
theſe Principles are, it is certain that the Hea-
then World ſtood in Want of Inftruction with
regard to each of them.
For firft, The general Knowledge of the One
true God was greatly defective.
I will not fay, that the Diſcovery of God's
Exiſtence was beyond the Reach of Man's rea-
foning
藏
​8
A SERMON before the Society
20.
કક્
**
3
foning Faculties; for St. Paul has determined
Rom. i. the quite contrary, affirming, That the eternal
Power and Wisdom of God might be known by the
Things which are feen. Meaning that the exter-
nal Works of the Creation plainly point out the
Being of a Creator. Neither do I fay that this
Knowledge was never actually attained. For in
all Ages and Nations, fome wife Men did ever
believe the Exiftence and Providence of one God.
But then it was commonly judged a Part of
Wiſdom to keep this Knowledge as much as
poffible to themſelves. Whatever they thought
in their own Breafts, or was made the Subject
of private Converfation, a famous Inftance at
Athens in the Perfon of Socrates rendered them
extremely cautious how they oppofed the efta
bliſhed Superſtition. Fear of the Populace, or
Contempt of them, or fome prudential Confidera-
tions reſtrained them from making any Attempts
at inſtructing them. In Fact, they did not en-
deavour to reform the prevailing Errors. By this
Means, they who stood in the greateſt Need of In-
ſtruction, were left to the Weakness of their own
Minds, and the Craft of defigning Men, whofe
Practice it was to impofe upon Ignorance by
Falfhood and Delufion. And thus it happened
that the Knowledge of the true God was loft;
and Darkneſs, Superftition and Idolatry ſpread
without Controul..
?
This
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
A
-This is enough to fhew the Infufficiency of
natural Reaſon, to preferve the Belief of the One
Supreme Being, or to reftore it when it is loft.
For excepting the Hebrews, who alone lived
under a Revelation, this was the State of all
Mankind, as far as Hiftory has given us Light
into this Matter. And notwithſtanding the
many Corruptions which from Time to Time
broke in upon the Hebrews, yet we find the
Strength of this Revelation as conftantly exerting
itſelf in their Reformation; and at length totally
prevailing over Idolatry. And as Chriſtianity
has carried this Revelation to the remoteſt Na-
tions of the Earth; fo we fee that wherever it
has prevailed, it has driven Ignorance and Idola-
try before it. And if any who are called Chrif-
tians feem to be running back into the ancient
Idolatry (as is very true concerning the Church
of Rome, which by their Worſhip of Pictures
and Images and Saints and. Angels have reſtored
much the fame Kind of Idolatry, though under
other Names, which was practiſed in the Hea-
then World) they are only thofe who volunta-
rily put out their own Eyes, and endeavour to
extinguiſh the Chriſtian Revelation by locking
up the Scriptures which fo clearly declare againſt
it. And if Men refolve. to be blind and igno-
rant, even the Divine Wiſdom cannot enlighten
them. But what is it which has driven out
L
B
this
10
A SERMON before the Society
21.
this Ignorance and Darkneſs? What has enlight-
ened the World (fo far as it is enlightened) but
the Prevalence of the Chriftian Revelation? We
fee what the ancient Philofophy was able to do
formerly, and what fmall Succefs it had it ap-
1 Cor. i. pears, that by Wifdom (as the Apoftle, faya) thất
is by Philofophy, the World knew not God ; but
Chriſtianity has performed what the other could
not do. And as thofe Nations who have not
embraced Chriftianity are ftill in the old Dark-
riefs fo it is plain that nothing keeps up the
Knowledge of God among Christians but this
Revelation. For before its Preaching the truc
God was not known; where it is not preached
at this Day the Cafe is the fame; and if this
Religion were again extinguiſhed, or if the Scrip
tures which contain this Religion be taken away
by the Prevalence of popiſh Tyranny in any
Nation, How is it poffible the fame Effect
ſhould not follow? That is, that Darkneſs and
Ignorance and Idolatry ſhould notɛreturn. ? Des
་
2. There is likewife great. Want of a Revela-
tion, in order to attain the Knowledge of a com-
pleat Rule of Life and Manners, and the Obli
gation to conform to it. Whatever may be
thought of fome extraordinary Perſons, who in
different Ages and different Countries have been
able to ftrike out the great Lines of Doty, it is
17
KC cortain,
for the Propagation of the Gofpet.
I.I
certain, that a perfect Syſtem of Morals is ne
where to be found but in the holy Scriptures.
༣
In fome of the most important Points, we
find the Learned greatly divided. And in Na-
tions of the cleareſt and beſt improved Under-
ſtandings, the moſt vicious and cruel Cuſtoms
were allowed without Reftraint. We meet
with no fettled Agreement, what was the chief
Good of Man, which in all his Actions he fhould.
purfue. And without the Knowledge of this,
Morality has no Foundation, and is directed to
no End. And amidst all this Claſhing among
the Learned, What could be done by the Igno-
rant and Illiterate? Who could lead them fafely
through the Subtilties and Niceties of Philo-
fophers?
We fee then the defective State of Reafon in
ancient Days, and as the natural Faculties of the
Mind were then in as great Perfection as they
are now, we may conclude with great Probabi-
lity, how uncertain the Principles of Morality
would have ftill remained.
1
But what if the Philofophers had been able to
compile an indifputable Syftem of moral Truths &
What Authority could they have fhewn to en-
force their Doctrines for a Law? Upon what
Foundation was it poffible for them to fupport
the univerfal Practice of Virtue ? Confcience has
the main Influence upon Human Actions; and
nothing
B 2
12
A SERMON before the Society
+
nothing can affect that fo ftrongly, as a firm
Perfuafion, that Morality is the Will of the great
God, who is able to fave and to deftroy." This
was underſtood by fome of the old Legiflators,:
who found their political Authority not of ſuffi-
cient Weight to recommend their Laws to ge-.
neral Obfèrvançe. To fupply this Defect they
had Recourſe to the Gods, and pretended their
Affiftance and Direction. A plain Indication,
how neceffary a Divine Revelation was then ef-,
teemed to aſcertain, the Duties of Morality, and
the true Reaſon of their Obligation, And if the.
Goſpel had not placed them upon their natural,
Baſis, the Will and Command of God; we have.
Reaſon to apprehend that Errors and Uncertain-
ties, Licentiouſneſs and Corruption would ftill
have continued reigning Evils...!
3. But there are other Particulars of infinite.
Importance to the Practice of Morality, of which
the Light of Nature can give no Affurance.
As the End of all true Religion is to promote
Piety and Virtue in this Life, and our everlafting
Happiness in the other fo there are certain
Means or Motives conducive to theſe Ends,
which a perfect Religion ought to propofe in the
cleareſt Manner.
Į
भ
•
The first of thefe is the Certainty of For-
giveneſs upon, fincere Repentance: For: as all
Men are Sinners, no one could have fufficient
Encouragement
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13.
Encouragement to apply himſelf to God and his
Duty, whilſt he faw that all Access to the
Throne of Grace was blocked up by his Tranſ--
greffions. And thus when Sin had once enter-
ed into the World, what could be expected but
its perpetual Continuance ? If Amendment were
thought of no Moment, who would endeavour
to amend? It is very plain, that a lively Hope
of Acceptance is one great Inducement to aim
at Reformation with Sincerity of Heart. And
it cannot be denied, that the Diftruft of For-
giveneſs muft, in Proportion to its Degree,
flacken Mens Zeal and Endeavours in this good
Work.
1
·
And yet there is no fubftantial Proof, from
bare Reafon or the Light of Nature alone, that
Remiffion will be granted for all Sorts of Sins
and Offences upon Repentance and future Obe-
dience; becaufe Obedience is at all Times our
Duty. And to imagine that future Obedience.
will fatisfy God for paft Tranfgreffions, is to fup-
pofe, that God will be fatisfied for Sin, without.
any Satisfaction at all. Juft as if I fhould think,
that my Creditor would remit the Debts I have
contracted, becauſe I do not continue to enlarge
them. What certain Grounds could I have for
fuch Sort of Hope? And yet, fuch. would our
Situation be with Regard to God, without the
Promiſes of the Gofpel.
... How
}
1
I 4
A SERMON before the Society
เ
How then muſt it ftand with the Haathen
World? Whatever they might diſcover of the
Being and Attributes of God, yet the Belief of
a. Redeemer was no Part of their Religion. The
general Means for appeafing the Diſpleaſure of
the Deity, were propitiatory Sacrifices: But Sa-.
crifices, it is plain, are arbitrary Things ; of no
natural Force in themſelves; nor of any Effi-
cacy in any Cafe farther than as God has or-
dained them, and declared his Acceptance of
them. It is true indeed God may difpenfe his.
Favours in what Manner he pleaſes. And where
it appears that he has inftituted Sacrifices to be
the Conveyance of his Pardon, there, no doubt,
Sacrifices may properly be depended upon for this
Purpoſe. But this was not the Cafe of the
Heathen. With them, this Divine Inſtitution
was not pretended to. And ſo we find that the
Philofophers derided Sacrifices as a vulgar Super-
ftition. They were willing to have it thought,
that as a holy and pure Mind was, above all
Things, acceptable to God; fo there was no
other Means of gaining his´ Reconciliation but
Repentance and Amendment. And yet it is cer-
tain that the vulgar Opinion was found at. the
Bottom, as it proceeded in general upon a Sup-
pofition that fomething elfe befides Repentance
was neceffary to reinstate Sinners in the Divine
Favour. But what it was that was farther: ces
quifite, no full Evidence could be obtained.
“།
Mankind
for the Propagation of the Gospel. 15
}
: Mankind therefore under theſe Circumstances
muſt have been infinitely uncertain and doubtful
of their Acceptance with God. For if Repent-
ance, or Sacrifices, or both of them together,
could give no certain Affurance of this; Nature
had nothing farther to fuggeft. All her Reafon-
ing could not remove Anxieties in this important
Matter. Nor could Doubts and Uncertainties
ever have been difpelled, had not the Goodness
of God interpofed, by fetting forth his only Son
to be the Propitiation for Sin, and declaring that
God was in Chriſt reconciling the World to him- 2 Cor. v.
felf, not imputing their Trefpafes unto them. 19.
Here and here alone the Mind of Man may ſe-
curely reft. Here is propofed a Sacrifice, in
which may be found every Condition, requifite
to make it a proper Attonement; and which
God himſelf has affured us, he has accepted, An
Affurance, which is of infinite Importance, both
for true Satisfaction and the Practice of Virtue.;
and an Affurance which never could have been
obtained without the Chriftian Revelation.
4. Another Motive to ſtrict Performance of
our Duty, which a perfect Religion ought to
propofe, is the Promife of Reward in another
Life. For what is there that can ſupport Virtue
under all the Hardships and Perfecutions to which
it is here expofed, but a firm Perſuaſion, that
thefe Sufferings will fhortly have an End; that
in
16
A SERMON before the Society
in the mean Time God is Witnefs of good Mens
Conflicts, and will at laft comfort and reward
them with himſelf? And yet as neceffary as
this Affurance is, it can no where be had but
from the New Teſtament alone.
It must indeed be confefled that wife and
good Men had always fome Expectation of a
happy Immortality: But as this Hope was very
weak, fo their Notions, concerning the Manner
and State of their future Exiſtence, were exceed-
ing dark and uncertain; proportioned to the
Foundation on which their Expectation was
built; which feems to have been- the obfcure
Remains of ſome ancient Tradition concerning
this Matter. It does not feem likely, that Men
did originally reaſon themſelves into this Hope.
For the Belief of a future State was moſt firmly
entertained among thoſe
thoſe * Nations who were
not uſed to Reaſoning, and had but little culti
vated their Underſtandings. And even thoſe
great Men, who talk and reafon moſt plauſibly
about it, do yet confeſs that they are not fatis-
fied with their own Arguments, and are doubt-
ful concerning the Truth of the Thing itſelf.
And therefore it is that this Hope is ſo rarely
mentioned as an Excitement and Encouragement
to Virtue. Whereas with what Forde would
this
* Populi quos defpicit Arctos
Felices errore fuo. Lucan.
. ܐ
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
17
this Confideration have been urged, if any Af-
furance could have been given of its Truth?
The ſtrongeſt Argument that natural Reaſon
could ever form of a future Reward, is drawn
from the unequal Diſtribution of Things in this
Life, and the great Calamities which good Men
often ſuffer even for the Sake of Goodneſs itſelf.
This has always given fome Grounds to hope,
that there muſt be another State, wherein theſe
Inequalities will be ſet right, and theſe Hardſhips
be recompenced with proper Degrees of Hap-
pineſs.
And without doubt the Argument is a reaſon-
able and conclufive Proof, that Virtue fuffering
in this Life fhall be comforted in another.
But it ſeems to fall greatly fhort of demonſtrating
the Proportion and Duration of this Reward.
For it muſt be confidered, that the greateſt Virtue
is mixed with many Blemiſhes and Imperfections,
which when placed in the oppofite Balance
greatly take off from the Weight of the moft
perfect Goodneſs, in recommending itſelf to the
Favour of God.
Befides, let the Sufferings of Virtue be ever
ſo great, what Grounds can there be to expect
fo
from the Juſtice of God, that its future Re-
compence ſhould be eternal? One of a fhorter
Duration will fufficiently fatisfy all the juſt Claims
which can be made by the greateſt Virtue and the
C
greateſt
}
18
A SERMON before the Society
t
greateſt Sufferings. If a Man be tortured for the
whole Term of Life, he is tortured but for a lit÷
tle while; and upon what Footing can he look
for Rewards, that are never to have an End?
A Recompence proportioned both in Degree and
Continuance, to his Virtue and Sufferings, and
the Length of human Life, is all that from the
Light of Nature, can be expected by the beſt
Man who ever fuffered for the beſt Caufe. And
if this be all the future Reward, which Reaſon
alone can offer, it cannot be a perfect one even
whilft it lafts: For no State can be perfectly
bleffed, ſo long as the End of it is foreſeen.
This I think is the beſt Argument, which na-
tural Reafon can produce for the future Reward
of Virtue. And yet even this we fee falls fhort;
and the moſt that can be made of it no Ways
comes up to the Promiſes of the Gofpel. Had
not therefore our Lord brought Life and. Im-
mortality to Light by his Doctrine, and given
evident Demonſtration of its Truth by his Re-
furrection from the Dead, no Affurance could
Luke xi. ever have been obtained, of that Fulness of foy
which good Men may now expect at God's
Right-Hand for evermore...
13.
Laſtly, it ought ever to be remembered, that
Chriſtianity does affure us, that God himself is
always ready to affiſt all upright and fincere Men
by his Holy Spirit which he will beſtow upon
them.
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
19
them. An Encouragement which as the Hea-
then. World never thought of, ſo nothing greater
can be faid for the Honour of Virtue, or the
Comfort of Men in the Profecution of it.
Thus you have feen the great Benefits of the
Chriſtian Revelation: What fuperior Knowledge
it imparts of the fundamental Articles of Reli-
gion; what Comfort and Satisfaction it affords,
what Encouragement to Virtue. But if ſuch are
the Advantages of the Gofpel, in giving Light to hu-
man Reaſon, ſome perhaps may be ready to object,
Why has not the Providence of God taken Care to
communicate the Knowledge of it to every Na-
tion? In Anſwer to which, I fhall proceed in the
2d Place, to vindicate the Juftice and Good-
neſs of God, though this Revelation be not as
yet univerfal. Known unto God, and to God
alone, are all his Works and Counfels from the
Foundation of the World. And for this Reaſon
we do not prefume to account for every Act of
Providence that is the Reſult of infinite Wiſdom.
But it is eaſy to difcern, that whatever Ad-
vantages God may grant to fome particular Na-
tions, this can be no Cauſe why others fhould
murmur and repine, unleſs they themſelves were
in a worſe Condition upon this Account. But
ſo far we are certain, that though fome Coun-
tries ſhould not have been the better for the
Chriftian
C 2
;
20
A SERMON before the Society.
19,
12.
Chriſtian Revelation, yet their State is not worfe
than it was before. The Gofpel has laid upon
them no new Burden, no new Condemnation.
As the Cafe ſtood in ancient Days, fo it is now.
If the Jews alone had the Law, they alone were
obliged by it. If the Gentiles knew not the
Law, they were not to be judged by it. For
whatſoever the Law faid, it faid only to them
Rom. iii. that were under the Law: And as they who
tranfgreffed the Law, were to be condemned by the
Rom. ii. Law, fo they who finned without the Law, were
to perish without the Law; fo likewife the
Goſpel was never intended for a Rule by which
they are to be judged who never heard of it. It
is a Law to Chriſtians alone, and leaves the. Gen-
tiles as they were before, to be judged by the Law
of Nature. We ſee therefore that the Chriſtian Re-
ligion impofes no Hardſhips upon the Gentiles.
Nay there is one Circumftance of it, that is calcu-'
lated for the Advantage of the Heathen World as
well as the Chriftian. The Mediator of the Gof-
pel Covenant has given himſelf a Ranſom for all..
And God did certainly accept his Interpofition
for all Mankind; the Mediator having himſelf
taken efpecial Care to fend his Meffengers abroad
on Purpoſe to make this Acceptance known to
all. But if the gracious Purpoſes of God in
this Difpenfation ſhould not be actually made
known to every Nation at the fame Time; yet
}
no
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
21
no People upon Earth, who fhall fincerely en-
deavour, according to the beſt of their Know-
ledge, to pleaſe God, will be excluded from the
Benefit of it.
As to the Laws and Rules of Morality, they
have always been the fame; equally obliging
both to Chriſtians and Gentiles. And though
nothing of this Nature has been given to the
prefent Heathens by Revelation, yet ſtill they
have the Ufe of Reafon and Confcience, that
Candle of the Lord, which, if carefully attended
to, is a plain Direction fo far as it extends. And
if in fome Inſtances this Light ſhould not be
fufficient, it muſt at the fame Time be granted,
that thoſe who have no other Light to walk by,
are lefs blameable, if they miſtake their Road
and wander from it. Their Confcience cannot
in this Cafe condemn them; nor is there any
external Law, by which they can be condem-
ned. And if acting according to what they
bave, be the Rule of their Condemnation or Ac-
ceptance, and nothing is expected from them
which they have not, they can in Juſtice claim
no more.
1
It muſt be allowed that if a Revelation were
a Matter of Right, it muſt of Neceffity be uni-
verfal, and every Nation would have an equal
Title to the Advantage of it. But as it is mere
Grace and Favour which God may grant or
१
with-hold
I
22
ASERMON before the Society
Rom. ix.
20.
with-hold according to his own good Pleaſure, he
may make Choice of fuch particular Nations to
beſtow it upon, as feems beft to himſelf. What
fecret Reaſons foever God may have for this
Conduct, we have no Right to enquire into them,
or object againſt them. And in this Cafe the
Apoſtle's Reaſoning is juſt and right; That the
Potter has Power over his own Clay, to make one
Veffel to Honour and another to Dishonour. Not
(as fome have underſtood the Paffage) that God
will make ſome Men happy and others miſerable,
merely from arbitrary Will, without Regard
to their reſpective Virtues and Vices. But, the
Meaning is, that God having impartially and
largely made Provifion for the Good and Welfare
of the whole Creation, he may diftinguiſh ſome
Parts of it with extraordinary Privileges and pe-
culiar Honours.
And this Method of God's Proceeding ought
to be no more furprizing to us, than his dealing
with whole Nations in other Cafes; where we
fee, that his Bounties are beſtowed with a very
unequal Hand. And yet no one who believed
a God, ever made this an Objection againſt the
Juſtice of his Providence. In the uſual Courſe
of his Government, He putteth down one People
and fetteth up another; whilft we cannot ordina-
rily obſerve any Reaſon in the People themſelves
for ſuch a Conduct. And even originally from
4
the
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
23
the Nature of their State and Situation, fome Na-
tions ſeem to be condemned to perpetual Diſtreſs
and. Mifery. Inclemency of Climates, unfruit-
ful Soils, unwholfome Airs, are the natural Lot
of many of them.
of them. And all this is frequently
attended with fuch Dulneſs of Apprehenfion, ſuch
Darkneſs of Underſtanding, and fuch Barbarity of
Life and Manners, as fets them but a ſmall De-
gree above the Brute Creation. And yet other
Parts of the Earth are by Nature bleffed with
all poffible Means of Happineſs; with mild and
fruitful Seafons; with clearer Faculties and riper
Judgment; with focial Graces, and all the Re-
finements of civil Life.
Nor is this Diftinction of Favours only to be
obſerved in whole Nations as feparate Diſtricts,
but is equally vifible in the feveral Natives of
each. It is almoft fuperfluous to ſay, that all
Men have not the fame Strength and Vigour of
Mind and Sublimity of Soul; nor the fame na-
tural Abilites of knowing God and their Duty;
nor equal Difpofitions for governing their Lives
according to that Knowledge. And if Men are
better fitted to know and to pleaſe God, as their
Apprehenfions are quicker, their Judgment more
folid, and their Paffions move with a more gentle
Courfe; it is plain that Men have not equal Ad-
vantages for recommending themſelves to God in
their natural State. And though the Faculties
of
24
ASERMON before the Society
of the Mind are as furely the Gifts of God, as
even Revelation itſelf; yet no one who believes
a Providence at all, accufes God of Partiality for
making one Man wifer than another, or for
granting him Abilities of being better. Much
leſs has it ever been attempted to diſprove the
Reality of fuch unequal Diſpenſations, as if it
were unjust and therefore impoffible for God to
make them.
✰
If therefore God may equitably make ſo great
a Difference in the Diſtribution of his natural
Gifts; why may he not communicate his Reve-
lations in the fame Manner? Why ſhould it be
thought more unequal in God; to give fome
Men and fome Nations Abilities and Difpofitions
for higher Advances in Wiſdom and Virtue, by
fome unuſual and extraordinary Means, than it
is to do the fame in the natural Courſe of
Things? If God may beſtow upon the Athenians
fuppofe, a Livelinefs and Quickness of Parts
above other People; why may he not be permit-
ted to enlighten the Hebrews by another Way?
If he can give to Socrates a Diviner Genius and
more exquifite Talents than common; why may
he not infpire an illiterate Jew?
The Sum is this; God has with great Inequa-
lity diſpenſed natural Endowments as well as the
Illuminations of his Holy Spirit among Men.
But he can never be accuſed of Partiality or In-
juſtice,
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
25
juſtice, nor be eſteemed a hard or auftere Mafter,
if he expects to reap but in the fame Proportion
as he has fown. What Grounds can there be
for Complaint, if he will not judge his Children
and Subjects by any Law which they have not
known; but will recompence them according
to their Works, in the Station in which he him-
felf has placed them?
*
遮​碍
​Y
But this State of the Cafe ought by no Means
to leffen our Gratitude to God, for the Benefit
of that Revelation we enjoy. For though we
affirm that God will not condemn thoſe who en
deavour to obey him according to the beſt Light
they have ; yet as Revelation enlarges that Light,
and by giving new Affiftances and Encourage-
ments to follow it, raiſes our Nature to higher
Perfection here; fo it fits and entitles us to great-
er and more perfect Degrees of Happinefs here-
after. The Senfe and Capacity that has been
beſtowed upon the Brute Creation, is abundantly
fufficient for that State, which the wife Creator
has allotted to them. And yet, becaufe this may
carry them through Life with tolerable Eafe and
Comfort; furely it will not be faid, that the
great
Additions which are made to Man; the noble
Powers of Reafon and Confcience; his Know-
ledge of God and himſelf, might have been fpa-
red, and are not deferving our greateſt Praife.
And if Revelation carries thefe Gifts to a moge
D
exalted
*
26
A SERMON before the Society
exalted Pitch, no doubt but our Thanksgiving
for fuch a gracious Favour ought in Proportion
to be enlarged.
Nor can our Gratitude be better expreffed
than by endeavouring to spread the Benefit of
Revelation to the remoteft Parts. Which brings
me,
3dly, To fhew our Obligation earneftly to en-
deavour at a larger Propagation of it.
I have before fhewn the Need the Heathen
World ftood in of this Revelation, and how
uſeful and proper it is for their Circumſtances.
Now all Reaſonings that fhew a Doctrine to be
good or neceffary, do at the fame Time fhew
that it is fit and proper that it fhould be made
as publick as may be. For this is the Nature of
all thofe Truths which ferve for the Direction
of Men; they are plainly given to no Purpoſe
Mat. v. if they are not made publick. Do Men light a
Candle and put it under a Bushel? and not
on a Candlestick, that it may give Light to all'
that are in the House? The Setting up a
Light is a fufficient Declaration of the Ufe it is.
intended to be put to. And with this View it
is that the Apoſtles, in whofe Hands this Light
Mat. v. was lodged, are themſelves filed the Light of the
World, all the dark Corners of which they were
15.
J4.
·
to illuminate with that Divine Light with which
they
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
27
they were intruſted.
The very Delivery there-
fore of this Doctrine is a fufficient Intimation
that it is not to be kept by Men for their own
private Speculation or Entertainment; but is to
be diffuſed to all Men for their Improvement and
Inftruction.
The Glory of God, the Author and Giver of
this Light, does clearly perfuade the fame Thing.
If it be fitting that the Great God and Father of
our Lord Jefus Chrift fhould be known and glo-
rified as the bounteous Rewarder of all them that
diligently feek him, it is highly reaſonable we
fhould fet forth the Riches of his Grace and Fa-
vour towards all that believe. If it tends to
make him more obeyed and more honoured
among Men, the more he is known and be-
lieved to be juſt and holy and merciful, it is very
evident that the Preaching and Propagating this
Doctrine, wherein he is declared to be fo, does
moſt eminently ſerve for this Purpoſe. This
Doctrine therefore was from the Beginning in-
tended to be univerfal, and will moft certainly
be fo in God's due Time; and the bleſſed Author
of it is ſtiled a Light to lighten the Gentiles, and
declared to be provided for Salvation to the Ends Ifa. xlix.
of the Earth. In purſuance of which gracious 6.
Purpoſe of God, our Lord when he was about
to withdraw his perfonal Prefence from the
Earth, folemnly commanded and commiffioned
1
D &
his
£8
he soldiery
22 MAN
Id Fa
15.
Mat. xxviii
19, 20.
Mark xvi his Apoſtles to go abroad into all the World, and
preach his Gospel to every Creature'; and, for
their Encouragement and Support in this arduous
Undertaking, promiſed that he would never leave
thém nor forsake them, but be preſent with them
and their Succeffors for ever.
Thus commanded
and thus animated, the Apostles delayed not to
fet about this glorious Enterprize, and with an
unparalleled Zeal and Integrity perfifted in it
throughout the whole Courfe of their Lives, inot-
withstanding the Oppofition and Cruelty of the
World and Satan united against them; and with
furch Succefs, as plainly fhewed the Effect of
their Maſter's 'Promife of being with them, and
which nothing but the Divine Prefence could
bring to paſs: Infomuch as that, in the fhort
Period of human Life, they had fo far executed
their Lord's Commands, as to occafion the Apoſtle
Rom. x. to ſay, that their Sound bad gone out into all
Lands, and their Words to the Ends of the World:
But how induftrious foever were the Labour-
ers, the Harveſt was too great. The Life of
Man was not long enough to go over the whole
World. Large Regions therefore were left to the
Zeal and Induſtry of future Labourers in the
Lord's Harveft. And it must be owned that
few Ages of the Chriftian Church have paſſed,
wherein fome Attempt or other has not been
made towards enlarging its Borders, many Pro-
18.
>
1
辎
​•
vinçes
for the Propagation of the Gafpel.
29
६.
vinces and People having fince the Apoftles Days
embraced the Chriftian Faith, and are now be-
come eminent Branches of the Catholick Church.
Even the remoteft Parts of the Earth in the Eaft
and Weft have not been difregarded. The
Church of Rome have long had a very pompous
Miffion in China, but with what Succeſs, and
with what Intent, let their own Brethren among
themſelveş fay: When they agree that the Chri-
ftian, Miffionaries do fo much as preach the true
God, * and do not debaſe the Christian Doctrine
to the counteriancing the ancient idolatrous Prac-
tices and Speculations, we fhall then know bet-
ter what to fay to them; at prefent the reſt of
Christendom is too ignorant or too much unin-
form'd of the Truth of their Practices to judge,
-or pronounce, any Thing concerning them with
Certainty. Nearer Home, in thofe Parts of Afra
where their Practices are better known, their
Miffions do not: feem to be managed with an
Apoftolical Simplicity: They fettle themſelves
in Nations which are Chriftianis already, and have
been fo from the Beginning, and under Pretence
of converting the Infidels which are among them,
their chief Buſineſs: ſeems to be, to apply them-
felves with all their Arts to pervert the Chrif-
tians themſelves from their ancient Faith, and
to draw them over to a Subjection to the Pope:
i
€
•
* Vid. Navarett's Account of China,
The
30
A SERMON before the Society
The Want of which Submiffion is what they
think the greateſt Error they find among
them, and which they endeavour zealouſly to
eradicate, while the Infidels are very fparingly
(if ever) applied to by them. This I think
may be truly faid concerning their Eaſtern Miſ-
fions.
Their Weſtern Miffions have been accompa-
nied with fuch unheard of Cruelties, and De-
folations of whole Countries, that it is no Won-
der if unconquerable Prejudices have been raiſed
among all who have fo much as heard of them.
And it is very likely all that attempt to preach
the Goſpel among them, find theſe Prejudices
ftrong at the Bottom of their Hearts againſt re-
ceiving it. But I forbear mentioning the ſeveral
Miffions which the Zeal or Ambition of the Ro-
man Church has prompted them to fend abroad
into the Heathen Nations, whether it be fincere-
ly to propagate the Faith of Chrift, may be much
doubted; becauſe when the Practices and Policy
of their. Miffionaries come to be clearly under-
tood, they will be enough to give Sufpicion at
leaſt, that the Intent is not ſo much to propagate
the Faith of Chrift, as to enlarge the Dominion
of that Church.
But as it has pleafed God, by his Bleffing on
the Commerce and Adventures of the British
Nation, to open to our Knowledge many large
Na-
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
31
•
Nations utterly in their native Rudenefs and Bar-´
barity, and quite ignorant of the Doctrine and
Name of Chrift, the Care of theſe People is na-
turally devolved upon the Charity and Piety of
us of this Nation. Providence, I fay, has cor-
figned them to our Care, to reduce them from
the Errors of their Ways, to bring them from
Darkneſs to Light, and from the Power of Satan
unto God. And all the Confiderations before-
mentioned of the Glory of God, and Charity to
the Souls of Men, will oblige us to undertake it.
And there is befides to be added another Reflec-
tion, viz. That if we neglect it they may like-
ly fall into the Hands of Miffionaries who are
watchful to make a Prey of them, to corrupt
them to their Party, and arm them againſt our-
felves; and if all theſe People are united to our
Enemies and turn upon us, who will not dread
the Confequence of fuch an Affault on our own
Settlements? Our own Safety therefore fhould
fpur us on to lift theſe People in the Service of
Chrift, and at the fame Time engage them to
our own Preſervation. Worthily therefore is
the Society employed, when they labour at the
fame Time to win over Souls to God, and make
Friends and Allies to our native Country.
There is likewife another Branch of the So-
ciety's Care, and which naturally falls within
their Province, which is providing for the Chri-
fian
32
4 SERI QN on Society
་
+
ſtian! Inftruction of our own Colonies Abroad, and
adminiftring - Divine Ordinances among them.
For if this be neglected, the People; will sun in-
to Barbarifm and a total Unattendance to their
Creator; infomuch that in their Manners, there
will foon be found but little Difference between
thoſe who never heard of Chriſt at all, and thoſe
who have forgot him, and, together with him,
all thofe Precepts which that Divine Teacher de-
livered to Men. To prevent this Confequence,
and to keep them out of this fadi State, 'the So-
ciety do not fail, according to their Ability, to
ſend among them a fufficient Number of Paftors
and Catechiſts and Schoolmafters, to miniſter to
their fpiritual Wants, to keep up the Face, and
(if poffible) the Spirit of Religioni and Humanity
in thoſe Countries; and particularly to civilize
and inftru&t in the Knowledge of Christianity
the rude Minds of the Negroes, who are fo uſe÷
fully employed in our ſeveral Colónies. What
Effect it has pleaſed God to give to their Labours
is fet forth in the Accounts annually publifhed
by Order of the Society, which are enough to
encourage a good Hope that the Profeffion of
Chriſtianity may prevail more and more in thofe
Countries; and that in Time the Knowledge of
the Lord may replenish the Earth, as the Waters
cover: the Sea.
1
*
冉
​of
It
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
33
It muſt be remembered, that thofe Parts of
the Plantations, which require the Affiftance of
Miffionaries, are by no Means able to maintain
them themſelves, and fly for Affiftance to the
Society, who have a certain Revenue indeed, but
by no Means adequate even to the certain Ex-
pence they are at in Support of the Miffionaries,
much leſs to that and the whole incidental Ex-
pence they are liable to. As therefore they have
been enabled hitherto to carry on their great Un-
dertaking by the voluntary Contributions of fuck
pious Perſons, to whom God has given an Abi-
lity equal to their Affections; fo this must be
the conftant Refourfe of the Society, truſting
that when the Nature of their Work, and the
Command of our Lord to forward it, are duly
confidered, it will always pleaſe God to fupply
Affiftance. Which God grant, &c.
?
E
An
1
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SoCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Pariſh-Church of St. MARY-LE-BOW,
On FRIDAY February 17, 1748.
ધ
By WILLIAM GEORGE, D. D.
Dean of Lincoln, Provoſt of King's College in Cambridge,
and Chaplain in Ordinary to HIS MAJESTY.
LON D. 0 N:
·
Printed by EDWARD OWEN, in Warwick-Lane:
And Sold by J. ROBERTS, in Warwick-Lane;
and A. MILLAR, at Buchanan's Head in the Strand.
MDCCXLIX.
1
*
#y A
At the Anniversary Meeting of the Socia
for the Propagation of the Gofpel in
Foreign Parts, in the Veftry Room of
St. Mary-le-Bow, on Friday the 17th
Day of February, 1748-9.
AGREED, That the Thanks of
SOCIETY be given to the
Reverend Dr. George, Dean of Lincoln,
for his Sermon preached this Day before!
the SOCIETY, and that he be defired
to deliver a Copy of the fame to the
SOCIETY to be Printed.
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary.
1
1
44
low
.1.
1
}
3
JOHN X. 16.
And other Sheep I have, which are not
of this Fold: them alſo I muſt bring,
and they fhall hear my Voice; and
there ſhall be one Fold, and one Shepherd.
26.
OD, that made of one Blood all A&ts xvü.
Nations of Men, for to`dwell
on all the Face of the Earth;
bath alfo determin'd the Times
before appointed, and the Bounds
of their Habitation. He has,
at fundry Times, and in divers Manners, Spoke Heb.i. 1.
unto our Fathers by the Patriarchs and Prophets;
and unto us, in thefe laft Days, by his Son, and
his Apoſtles. The earlier Communications of
his Will, while the Earth was but thinly inha-
bited, and the Longevity of its Inhabitants ena
bled
A 2
4.
A SERMON before the Society
bled one Man to be a Witness to many fuccef-
five Generations, were, as far as appears from
the very, fhort Records remaining of thoſe di-
ſtant Ages, left to be preferv'd and tranfmitted
by Oral Tradition. But how infufficient this
was for univerfally preferving a due Senfe of
Religion, and maintaining the pure Worſhip of
God within fo narrow a Tract as could then be
occupied by the Sons of Men, may appear from
this Confideration; that, within a Term, not
equal to what was then twice the Period of hu-
Gen. vi. man Life, all Fleſh had fo corrupted their Ways,
that it repented the Lord that he had made Man
upon the Earth. So foon did that Depravity of
human Nature, caus'd by the Fall of our firſt
Ecclef.vii. Parents, operate: fo early did Man, though
created upright, Seek out variety of Inventions to
render himſelf guilty and miſerable.
29.
Notwithſtanding this almoft univerfal Defec-
tion and Apoftafy, it pleas'd God never to leave
Acts xiv. bimfelf without Witness. Befides thofe vifible,
17.
}
and even palpable Demonſtrations of his infinite
Wiſdom and Power, in his Works. of Creation
and Providence; he always referv'd to himfel
fome peculiar People, fome ſelected Remnant,
to be the Depofitaries, of his Oracles, his Cove-
nant, and his Promifes: The Defcendents of
Seth before the Flood, and of Shem after it, pre-
ferv'd the Knowledge and Worship of the true
}
God
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
S
t
*
God amidst the prevailing Corruption and De-
generacy of the People round about them. Af-
terwards, he chofe a whole Nation, the Pofte-
rity of Abraham, by Ifaac and Jacob, whom he
ſeparated from the reſt of Mankind, giving them
a Body of Laws and Statutes, and interpofing
vifibly and fenfibly in the Execution and Ad-
miniſtration of them. For the fame Purpoſe a
Succeffion of Prophets were rais'd up by God,
to admonish them from Time to Time of their
Duty to him, and to preferve them from falling
into the Idolatry, and other Abominations of the
neighbouring Gentiles. By this Means, not only
a juft Senfe of the Relation Men ftood in to
God, as the Creatures of his Power, the Objects
of his Care, and the Dependents on his Provi-
dence, was kept up in the World; but likewiſe
the Hopes of a future more gracious and glori-
ous Diſpenſation, to be reveal'd in the Fulneſs of
Time, were fupported and confirm'd. The Word 2 Pet. i.
of Prophecy, though in a dark Place, went on
gradually to ſhine more and more unto the perfect
Day; till he who was the Defire, ſhould come
to be the Bleffing of all Nations; and the Morn-
ing Star of the House of Jacob fhould arife as the Mat. iv.
Sun of Righteouſneſs with healing in his Wings.
In the mean while, how wretched and de-
plorable was the State of the Gentiles,
Aliens from this Commonwealth of Ifrael,
t
?
19.
2.
being Eph. ii.
12.
and ¹².
Strangers
6:
A SERMON before the Society,
24.
Strangers from the Covenant of Promife; having
no Hope, and without God in the World! If the
Jewish Oeconomy was but a weak, faint, im
perfect Light; their's was outer Darkness, and the
Shadow of Death. If the Jews were in a State
of Childhood, and under the Difcipline of a
Gal. iii, School-master; they were without the Benefit of
even thoſe mean Elements. The Knowledge of
even the wifeft among them was fo partial and
defective, that they were ignorant of the very
firſt-Principle of Religion, the Object of Wor-
ſhip. They knew, becauſe they faw in others,
and felt in themſelves, the great Depravity of the
human Will; its Averfeneſs to what unpreju-
die'd Judgment, and uncorrupted Confcience
could not but pronounce to be Good; and its
Pronenefs and Inclination to every thing con-
feffedly Evil; but they neither knew how this
Diſorder and Corruption was introdue'd into the
moral World, nor how it was to be remedied.
As little did they know whether an offended
God would accept of any Terms of Reconci-
liation with his Creatures; and ftill lefs, what
thofe Conditions were. Hence they concur'd;
or at leaſt acquiefc'd, in thofe childish and ti-
diculous Inftitutions, thofe obfcene and cruel
Rites, the Inventions of barbarous and abfurd Su-
perftition: Sacrifices that wanted another AtoreA
ment, and Repentance that ſhould have been
•
་
2
repented
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
7
1
repented of: A Religion, more likely to pro-
voke a kind and merciful Deity, than to propi-
tiate an incens'd one. And if their Theology
was thus corrupt, it is no wonder if their Mo-
rality was fo too. Thofe among them who rea-
ffon'd moft juſtly about it, (and ſome there were
who reafon'd very juſtly) having however no
Standard whereby to afcertain it, no Authority
to fecond it, and no acknowledg'd Sanctions to
enforce it, treated it rather as an Exercife of
Wit, and an Oftentation of Science, than a Rule
of Practice; and thoſe Philofophers who talk'd
of Virtue in the moſt fublime and rapturous
Strains, left it to the miferable Comfort of being
its own Reward.
1
It were eafy to add much more on this Head:
What has been fuggefted may fuffice to intro-
duce the Obfervation I would make, to the Pur-
poſe of our affembling ourſelves together this
Day; namely, that if the Condition of the Hea-
then World with Regard to Religion and Mo-
rality was fo bad, at a Time when they were
in Poffeffion of all the liberal Sciences, and me-
chanical Arts, to a Degree beyond what our ut
moft Attainments pretend to reach, in many
Branches of them; and the underſtanding and
judging of which makes a very confiderable Part
of what we now efteem Learning; in how much
more deftitute and forlorn a State muft thoſe
poor
8
A SERMON before the Society
poor Creatures be, in whom human Nature, for
want of Intercourfe with the civiliz'd Part of the
Species, is funk below it felf, and degenerated
almoſt into Brutality! I know that the direct
and immediate Object of the Care of this ve-
nerable Society is the Propagation of the Goſpel
in our own, Colonies and Plantations; * fome of
whoſe Inhabitants, for want of a fettled Mini-
ſtry to preach the Word, and diſpenſe the Or-
dinances of the Goſpel amongſt them, were al-
moſt as mere Pagans as the native Indians, or
the imported Africans. But your pious Endea-
vours and Labour of Love have not ſtopt here,
and I truſt never will. Your firft Concern is
for the Sheep of this Fold, who are in Danger of
going a Stray, without a Shepherd; but the great
1 Pet. ii. Biſhop and Shepherd of all our Souls has other
Sheep, which are not yet of this, or any other
Fold; them alfo he muſt bring, and they fhall hear
his Voice; and there shall be one Fold, and one
Shepherd.
25.
:
A
The tender and compaffionate Character un-
der which our Saviour reprefents himſelf in the
Text, is the fame he is often defcrib'd by in the
Writings of the Prophets; where they 'foretell
See a very pathetical Addrefs to the Society from the Inha-
bitants of Salem in Weft New Jersey, printed at the End of Bifhop
Greene's Sermon in 1724, in the Abstract of the Society's Pro-
ceedings the Year before, Page 41...
the
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
3, 4.
xxxiv. 15,
the fame Event, to be brought about by the
Meffiah, which himſelf here declares he would
in due Time accomplish. And I will gather,
fays Jeremiah, the Remnant of my Flock, out of Jer. xxiii.
all Countries whither I have driven them, and will
bring them again to their Folds, and they shall be
Fruitful and Increaſe. And I will ſet up Shep-
herds over them which shall feed them, and they
Shall fear no more, nor be difmay'd, neither fhall
they be lacking, faith the Lord. To the fame
Purpoſe Ezekiel, I will feed my Flock, and I will Ezek.
cauſe them to lie down, faith the Lord God. I16.
will feek that which was loft, and I will bring
again that which was driven away, and will bind
up that which was broken, and will Strengthen that
which was Sick. But the greateſt and ſtrongeſt
Demonſtration of his Love to Mankind, greater
than which none can fhew, is that which he
mentions in the Words immediately before the
Text, I lay down my Life for the Sheep. This John x.
indeed was at firft but a little Flock; but it was 15.
defign'd by Him in whofe Hands all our Times
are, to encreaſe and multiply exceedingly in his
appointed Time; to extend to all Nations and
Tongues, to all the Iles of the Heathen, and the
Abundance of the Sea.
It ſhall be my Buſineſs, in what follows, to
fhew that Chrift's Religion was intended to bę
Univerfal, First, From the Nature of it, and the
B
many
10
A SERMON before the Society.
many Characters of Univerfality plainly imprefs'd
upon it.
Secondly, From the many Prophecies in the
Old Teſtament, which plainly point out that
Intent, and Thirdly,
From the ſpeedy Completion of thoſe Prophe-
cies, in fo great a Degree, that the total Ac-
compliſhment of them may be reaſonably ex-
pected, when the Time of the Fulness of the
Gentiles fhall come.
First, then, the many Characters of Univer-
fality plainly impreſs'd on the Chriftian Religion
fhew, that it was intended by its divine Author
to be Univerfal. The Jewish Law was plainly
local and partial, and in the very Nature of the
Inftitution, confin'd to that Country, and that
People. It was fo far from being intended to be
communicated to the rest of the World, that
the declar'd Defign of it was, to prevent their
Intercourſe with them. At its Promulgation it
was addrefs'd to them only, in Terms expreffing
their peculiar Relation to God, as their God.
And it is plain from the Conduct of their
Prophets, when they were fent to any other
Nation, that they thought themſelves not oblig'd
to publish their Law to them, but only to
preach thoſe Doctrines which were of univerfal
Obligation, and a Part of the Law of Nature.
Dan. iv. Daniel does not exhort Nebuchadnezzar to be
circumcis'd,
27.
4
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
II
8.
circumcis'd, and take upon himſelf the Obliga-
tion of the Ritual Law, but exhorts him to
break off his Sins by Righteouſneſs, and his Ini-
quities by fhewing Mercy to the Poor: And Jonah's Jonah iii.
Commiffion to the People of Niniveh was, that
they ſhould turn every one from his evil Way,
and from the Violence that is in their Hands. But
neither of them preffes any Obligation to the
Law of Mofes, the Performance of which, in all
its Branches, was to them impracticable. This
Limitation of God's Covenant to them in par-
ticular, together with that Partiality fo natural
to Men in like Circumſtances, was the Reafon
why the Jewish Converts to Chriſtianity, and
even the Apoſtles themſelves, thought, till they
were better inftructed, that the fame Limitation
was annex'd to the new Covenant; and that they
were ſtill the only Children of the Promife, and
the peculiar People of God. If theſe Prejudices
had not ſtood in their Way, they might have
ſeen abundant Reafon to conclude, that the
Light of the Gospel was not defign'd to be hid
under a Bufhel, or confin'd to a Corner; but
was to ſhed its falutary Influence over the whole
World; and that the Sun of Righteoufnefs, like
that in the Firmament, was to rife on the Unjust,
as well as on the Juft. There is nothing in the
Chriſtian Religion but what is equally calculated
for all Places, and all Perfons: The univerſal
B 2
Love
•
I 2
A SERMON before the Society
4
Love and Charity it enjoins tend, not to divide
and ſeparate, but to reconcile and unite all
Mankind. The Worſhip it preſcribes is of a
ſpiritual Nature, and directed to that God who
pervades Immenſity, and is equally preſent in all
Places: Whofe Eyes are upon the Righteous
every where, and whofe Ears are open to their
Prayers, wherefoever they are offer'd up.
The narrow, and partial Notions of Brother-
hood and Neighbourhood entertain'd by the Jews
were neceffary to ferve the Purpofes of God's
Oeconomy, at the Time when the Law was
given; when they were juft come out of an
Idolatrous Country, and furrounded on all Sides
by fuch deluded Worshippers, and fo prone to
imitate them in all their Extravagancies. In
theſe Circumſtances it was proper to prohibit all
Commerce with the Gentiles, to prevent their
being infected with that Contagion of Idolatry.
But this had long ceas'd to be the Cafe with
them. They had, for above Five Hundred
Years, ever fince their Return from the Baby-
loniſh Captivity, never once relaps'd into Idola-
try. Their Fondnefs for the Obfervances and
Rites of other Religions was fo far abated, that
they were rather guilty of an Exceſs on the
other Hand, and were become too fcrupulously
attach'd to thoſe of their own. So that
So that upon
this Account alſo the Reaſon of thoſe burdenfome
Ceremonies
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
Ceremonies was ceas'd, and their Neceffity fu-
perfeded, as well as their typical and figurative
Relation was determined, upon the Appearance
of that Subſtance, of which they were only a
Shadow. But the Doctrines reveal'd by the Gof-
pel are fuch as are of univerſal Concernment to
all; forafmuch as the Souls of all Men are
equally immortal; their Defire of Happineſs,
and Apprehenfion of Miſery the fame; and their
Intereſt in a State of Blifs or Woe that is never
to determine of equal Importance to every one.
The pofitive Obſervances it enjoins are very few,
and alike practicable in all Countries. Abana
and Pharphar, Rivers of Damafcus, will ferve
for Baptifin, as well as fordon; and fo will all
the Rivers that water the whole Earth. Cir-
cumſtances of Worſhip in their Nature variable
are left to be determin'd by the Diſcretion of
thoſe whoſe Buſineſs it is to fee that all Things
be done decently, and in Order; and Things quite
indifferent are left in their original State of Indif-
ference. But Duties of moral and eternal Obli-
gation, as are thoſe enjoin'd by the Goſpel, be-
ing equally binding to all, and adapted to the
Capacities of all, were to be univerſally pro-
mulg'd and inculcated. And fo indeed they were
originally by the Law of Nature; but through
the Degeneracy and Corruption of Mankind, and
the Artifices of their Enemy the Devil, through
the
14
A SERMON before the Society.
the general Defection from the true Religion,
and the Introduction of Variety of Falfe ones";
it became neceffary for a God of Purity and Ho-?
linefs to interpofe, in fome way or other for the
Vindication of his Honour. And it was reafon-
able to hope from his Mercy, that he would, at
fome Time, interpofe, for the Recovery of fo
noble a Part of his Creation out of a State of
fuch wretched Apoftafy. This he at laft effec-
tually did, by fending his only-begotten Son into
the World, to be a Light to lighten the Gentiles,
as well as to be the Glory of his People Ifrael.
Can it be imagin'd, that fo noble a Victim was
to be an Atonement only for one ſmall Contemp-
tible People? That a Ranſom of infinite Value,
a Price, to which a Thouſand Worlds bear no
Proportion, fhould be paid to redeem fo incon-
fiderable a Part of the Inhabitants of one? Is it
probable, that fo great and glorious an Embaſ-
fador, as was fent to tranfact this Covenant,
ſhould be ſent to treat of any Thing less than
univerfal Peace? He took on him our Nature in
general, and became related to us all; and as
we all died in the first Adam, the Repreſentative
of our fallen Nature; fo in the fecond Adam, the
Repreſentative of the fame Nature reftor'd, we
were all to be made alive. By Him God made
the whole World, and by Him he redeemed the
Whole. It would have given us a much lower
Idea
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
3
15
Idea of his Conduct, had all this folemn Prepa-
ration been for the Sake of fo fmall a People,
who were to engrofs fo large a Bleffing. It is
a Light Thing, fays the Prophet Iſaiah, that
thou fhouldst be my Servant, to raife up the Tribes
of Jacob, and to restore the preferved of Ifrael:
I will alſo give thee for a Light to the Gentiles,
that thou mayeft be my Salvation unto the End of
the Earth. God does not uſe to be thus partial
in difpoling of Temporal Bleffings; He maketh
bis Sun to rife, and his Rain to fall, on all with-
out Diſtinction: And can we think he would
deny the Light of his heavenly Truth to thofe
who wanted it moft, who fat in Darkness, and
in the Shadow of Death? Or that he would not
ſhower down his Spiritual Bleffings, without
which we muſt have been miferable, on all his
Creatures? Such a Notion would be unworthy
of the Apprehenfions we ought to entertain of
the Deity, and would derogate either from his
Power, or his Goodneſs; as if either his Hand
were ſhortned, that it could not fave; or his Mercy
were clean gone for ever, and he had forgotten to
be gracious.
Secondly, The Univerfality of the Chriftian
Revelation was clearly and frequently foretold in
the Old Teftament. It would carry me too far
to mention all the Texts, which point at this.
great Event: It will be fufficient to felect fome
of
16
A SERMON before the Society
Gen. xvii.
18.
of the Principal ones, which are fo clear, that it
is furprizing they could ever have been mistaken:
The firſt Promife given to Abraham was, that
He ſhould become a great and mighty Nation, and
all the Nations of the Earth fhould be bleſſed in
Him. His Pofterity was to convey the Bleffing.
to other Nations; but not to engrofs it to them-
felves. The fame Promiſe was afterwards re-
peated to him in the fame Terms; and again
renew'd to Ifaac and Jacob fucceffively. The
fame Thing is foretold by David in the ſecond
Pfalm ii.8. Pfalm: Ask of me, and I shall give thee the Hea-
then for thine Inheritance, and the uttermoft Parts
of the Earth for thy Poffeffion. And again, Hể
Pf. lxxii. fhall have Dominion from Sea to Sea, and from the
River to the Ends of the Earth. All Kings fhall
fall down before Him, all Nations fhall do Him Ser-
vice. All Nations ſhall be bleſſed in Him, and
fhall call Him bleſſed. Thus the Prophet Ifaiak,
Ifaiah ii. It shall come to pass in the last Days, that the
Mountain of the Lord's Houſe ſhall be eſtabliſhed in
the Top of the Mountains, and all Nations fhall
flow unto it: And many People ſhall fay, Čome ye,
and let us go up to the Mountain of the Lord, to
the Houfe of the God of Jacob, and he will teach
us of his Ways, and we will walk in his Paths.
The very fame Words occur in the Prophet Mil
Micah iv. cab, and in Hofea, it is faid, It shall come to pass
Hof. i. 10. that in the Place where it was faid unto them, re:
8.
2, 3.
I, &c.
are
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
are not my People, there it ſhall be ſaid unto
them, Ye are the Sons of the living God. But the
moſt full and expreſs Prediction of this great
Event is in Malachi, the laft Prophet under the
Jewish Difpenfation. From the rifing of the Sun, Mal. i. 11
unto the going down of the fame, my Name fall be
great among the Gentiles, and in every Place In-
cenſe ſhall be offer'd to my Name, and a pure Offer-
ing; for my Name ſhall be great among the Hea-
then, faith the Lord of Hofls. From thefe, and
many other parallel Places, it appears evidently,
that the Gentiles were defign'd to be admitted
univerfally to the Benefit of the Chriſtian Cove-
nant; and more particularly ſtill, from the Com-
miffion our Lord gave to his Diſciples, juſt be-
fore his Afcenfion into Heaven, Go, and teach all
Nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Fa-
ther, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghoft.
Thirdly, A further Proof that the Evangelical
Difpenfation was intended to be Univerſal, is the
fpeedy Completion of all theſe Prophecies in a
miraculous and fupernatural Manner. However
obfcure Prophecies may be at the Time of their
Delivery, they are clear and intelligible enough,
when they are verify'd by the Accompliſhment.
If there could be any Doubt concerning the
Meaning of theſe Predictions before the Event,
yet furely there could be none after it. The
fame Spirit of God which dictated, enabled the
Apoſtles
C
18
A SERMON before the Society
Apoſtles to fulfil them, and did viſibly co-ope-
rate with them in the Promulgation of the Gof-
pel to all Nations. If we believe the Scripture,
they were inveſted with a Power of working.
Miracles in the Execution of their Commiſſion :
If we do not, we must believe a greater Miracle
than any they wrought, the rapid and ſpeedy
Propagation of the Doctrine by mere human
Means. It is but reaſonable to fuppofe, that
God beft underſtands his own Counfels and Pur-
pofes; and fince his Interpofition, in bringing
to paſs the Event we have been fpeaking of, was
ſo viſible and apparent, and the Powers with
which he endued the Apoftles fo fuitable and
correfpondent to it, there can be no Doubt of
his Intention in it. To what Purpoſe fhould
they have had the Gift of fpeaking all Languages
beſtow'd on them, had their Miniftry been in-
tended to be confin'd to their Country? This is
a Demonftration of God's Defigns on the one
Hand, as the amazing Succeſs is, on the other..
There feems, in all the Circumstances of this
Affair, to have been the greateft Care taken,,
left the ſpreading of the Goſpel fhould be im-
puted to any lower Cauſe than the immediate.
Hand of God. When the viſible Means are fo
infinitely difproportion'd to the End, we must
have recourfe to fome other Agent; and raiſe
our Thoughts from fubordinate and fecond
Caufes
}
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
19
Caufes to the first and Supreme. Had human
Wiſdom only been confulted, and human Means
only depended on, a Scheme of Religion more
unlikely to prevail could not have been invent-
ed. That a plain and fimple Doctrine, fet off
with none of the Embelliſhments of Wit or
Learning; a Doctrine that flatter'd no darling
Lufts, or favourite Inclinations; that ſet itſelf
up in Oppofition to all the Religions in being,
which were fupported and upheld by Autho-
rity, and had the Advantage of Preſcription and
Eſtabliſhment on their Side; whilft it felf had
no Countenance or Support from
any Civil
Power, but was diſcountenanc'd and perfecuted
by all; a Doctrine, which propos'd no Return,
in this World, to its Profelites, but Calumnies
and Reproaches, Perfecutions and Sufferings;
that ſuch a Doctrine, I fay, under all theſe un-
promifing Appearances, fhould be difpers'd fo
far, in fo fhort a Time, by twelve poor, defpis'd,
illiterate Men, in a learned and inquifitive Age,
when it had all the Scepticiſm of the curious
and ſearching Wits, the letter'd Pride of the Phi-
lofophers, the Superftition and Bigotry of the
unlearn'd; in fhort, all the Prejudices and Pre-
poffeffions, the Vices and Paffions, the Wiſdom
and the Folly of Mankind to encounter with, is
what can be accounted for on no other Suppo-
fition, but the Concurrence and Co-operation of
C 2
an
20
A SERMON before the Society
an Almighty Power. It is the Lord's doing, and
it is-marvellous in our Eyes. The fame Omni-
potence, that in an Inſtant brought Light out of
Darkneſs in the. Material World, now wrought.
the fame great Effect in the Moral one, faying,.
let there be Light, and there was Light.
>
*
I am aware that it may be, and has been ob-
jected, that if the Want of the Knowledge of
the Chriftian Revelation is fo great an Unhappi-
nefs, God ought in Mercy, if not in Juftice, to
his Creatures, to have reveal'd it: fooner, and.
communicated it univerfally. Why, fay fcep-
tical Reafoners, was it fo many Ages. before the
Sun of Righteouſneſs arofe? Why has his Mo-
tion not been conftantly Progreffive, nay fome-
times Retrograde? And why has his Light, where
it has fhone forth,, in. fome. Places. been almoft
totally eclips'd? Neither: the Time, nor your
Patience, will permit me to give a particular-
and diftinct Anſwer. to theſe Queſtions. They
have been ask'd before, and been anfwer'd too,..
as fatisfactorily as they can be, by Men who
cannot penetrate into the hidden Counfels of
Providence. They, are among the fecret Things...
xxix. 29. which belong unto God, and therefore ought to be
left to him. But thofe Things which are reveal'd
belong unto us, and to our Children for ever; that
we may do all the Things of the Law. The beft
Way to filence thefe Objections, is to remove:
Deut.
+
*
the
2
.1
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
21
•
the Ground of them: And if, as they but too
truly fuggeft, a great Part of the World, has
not yet had the good Tidings of great Joy, which
Lall, in God's appointed Time, be to all People,
yet imparted to them; the profefs'd and moſt
laudable Deſign of this worthy Society is the
beſt Anſwer that can be given to them. You
are incorporated by the Charter of that Glorious
Prince to whom, under God, we owe the Pre-
ſervation not only of our Civil Liberties, but our
Religious ones too, and even our pure and
reform'd Religion itſelf, here at Home, to pro-
pagate it Abroad, by providing for the Support
and Maintenance of an Orthodox Clergy, to preach
God's Word, and adminifter his Sacraments among
thoſe of our Colonies, which feemed to be aban-
don'd to Atheiſm and Infidelity, or Popish Super-
ftition and Idolatry: To eſtabliſh the moſt bene-
ficial Commerce with them, in Requital for the
temporal and periſhable Riches which we re-
ceive from them; to impart to them. our fpiri-
tual Things, and Treafures which will never
periſh; and to fend them ſomething in Return,
befides our Vices and our Criminals.
*
How well the pious and charitable Deſign of
this Inftitution has been anfwer'd; with what
Induſtry and Affiduity it has been profecuted;
with what Fidelity and Frugality the Revenues, .
Both ſtanding and contingent, have been iffaed
and
}
22
A SERMON before the Society.
}
1
and conducted; what Progrefs has been already
made in this good Work, and what further, with
the Bleffing of God, may be expected, may be
learnt from the annual Accounts publifh'd to
the World by the Society. All theſe Topics
have been infifted and enlarg'd on to fo much
Advantage, by thoſe who are much my Superiors
in all Refpects, that I fhall not preſume to add
to what they have faid; and I need not repeat
it. Permit me only to make one Obſervation,
which has not been fo much anticipated, becauſe
the Facts on which it is grounded are very
recent. And it is with great Pleaſure I obſerve,
from ſome of the lateſt Accounts tranſmitted
by the Miffionaries in that Colony where Dif-
fenters from our Eſtabliſhment abound, that
thofe of the Separation there feem to be coming
into a more moderate and charitable Way of
thinking, with Reſpect to our Church, than
their Fore-fathers, who took Sanctuary there
from what they thought too great a Severity in
its Diſcipline. And what makes this Alteration
the more remarkable is, that it is reprefented
as proceeding from a Caufe, which it might
juſtly have been fear'd, would have produc'd the
quite contrary Effect. The wild and extrava-
gant Spirit of Enthufiafm, which as well as the
* See the Abſtract, &c. of the Years 1743, 4, 5, under the
Article of New-England.
Oppofite
3
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
23
Oppoſite one of * Infidelity, has been com-
municated to them from their Mother-Country,
has made many of them obferve, and ferioufly
reflect upon, the Happineſs of a Society, which
is at Unity within itself. I am willing to hope
this may be interpreted as a good Omen of a
Revival of the fame Diſpoſition at Home: And
if thoſe bad Caufes, through the over-ruling
Providence of God, who can bring Good out
of Evil of all Kinds, fhould produce the fame
defireable Effect here- bác mercede placent.
IO.
May the God of Peace make us all to be
kindly affectioned one to another; like-minded, ha- Rom, xií.
ving the fame Love, being of one Accord, of one Phil. ii. 2.
Mind; one Fold, under one Shepherd! May the
good Seed of his Word, which you fow and
watch, produce an abundant Encreaſe! and let
8.
all they which go by, fay, the Blessing of the Lord Pf. cxxix.
be upon you: We bless you in the Name of the
Lord.
* See Abftract, &c, of the Year 1744, R. 43.
Ar
{
¿
<
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gofpel in
Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Parish Church of ST. MARY-LE-BOW,
On FRIDAY February 16, 1749.
By the Right Reverend Father in Go D,
RICHARD Lord Biſhop of St. DAVIDS.
LONDON:
Printed by EDWARD OWEN in Warwick-Lane:
And Sold by J. ROBERTS in Warwick-Lane:
and A. MILLAR, at Buchanan's Head in the Strand.
MDCCL.
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the
1
Society for the Propagation of the
Goſpel in Foreign Parts, in the Veftry-
Room of St. Mary-le-Bow, on Friday
the 16th Day of February, 1749.
A the
GREED, That the Thanks of
the SOCIETY be given to the
Right Reverend the Lord Biſhop of
St. Davids, for his Sermon preached
this Day before the SOCIETY, and
that his Lordſhip be defired to deliver
a Copy of the fame to the SOCIETY
to be Printed.
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary.
7
"male tra 10 L
3
LUKE, Ch. II. V. 32.
A Light to lighten the Gentiles, and the
Glory of thy People, Ifrael.
HESE Words are Part of the
rapturous Hymn of holy Si-
meon, when upon receiving in
his Arms the young Saviour of
the World, the Child Jefus, his
Mind was prophetically ſtruck
with a lively Image of the Glories of his future
Reign, and of the ſpiritual and ineſtimable Bleſ-
fings to be conferred by him, as well on his own
Nation, the Jews, in particular, as on the whole
Race of Mankind in general.
THE Character of Simeon (as here given by St.
Luke) ſeems to have been peculiarly adapted for
receiving the extraordinary Grace of this Divine
Revelation: He is faid to have been a Man just Luke ii.
and devout; one thoroughly fenfible of his moral 25.
A 3
and
4
A SERMON before the Society
Luke ii.
25.
Iſaiah ix.
6.
Haggai ii.
7
and religious Obligations, and uniformly' zealous
in the Practice of the feveral Duties arifing froin
thence, towards God and his Neighbour-He
is moreover faid to have waited for the Confolation
of Ifrael; from whence we may reaſonably con-
clude, that his Time and Attention had been
duly and diligently exerciſed in the Study and
Examination of the Holy Scriptures, eſpecially
the Prophetick Writings; from whofe true Mean-
ing and Import he had learned to expect (not
with the Bulk of his Countrymen a temporal
Conqueror and Deliverer) but a Saviour of far
other Kind and Character, the Prince of Peace ;
the Defire of Nations; and the Confolation of
Luke i Frael.
To a Mind thus happily qualified,
thus rightly difpofed and inſtructed, was the
Divine Grace peculiarly vouchfäfed; accordingly
we find it ſaid in general, that the Holy Ghoft was
upon him.And we farther find this general
Gift made ſpecial to him by a particular Promiſe
and Revelation, that he should not fee Death, till
be bad feen the Lord's Chrift.And now, upon
Occafion of Jefus being prefented by his Parents
in the Temple, all his Hopes and Defires are
brought to their determinate Point and Crifis;
Luke ii. At this feaſonable Juncture he comes by the Spirit
into the Temple; and by the fame Spirit is directed
to the great End of all God's Promifes, and his
Expectations; of all, for which he had hitherto
25.
Ibid.
ii.
Luke ii,
75,
27.
wiſhed
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
5
wiſhed to live, and with which he could now
contentedly die, the Sight of his Saviour and
Meffiah; whom taking up in his Arms, and
bleffing God for this happy Interview, what
other Words could he employ fo fully and pro-
perly to expreſs the overflowing Sentiments of
his Heart in fuch intire Circumftances of Com-
placency and Joy, as the beautiful ones we here
find recorded? Lord now letteft thou thy Servant
depart in Peace according to thy Word, for mine 29,30,31,
Eyes have ſeen thy Salvation, which thou haft pre-
pared before the Face of all People: A Light to
lighten the Gentiles, and the Glory of thy People,
Ifrael.
HEREIN is contained a brief, though accurate,
Deſcription of the Nature and Extenſiveneſs of
Chrift's Kingdom, then going to be revealed to
Mankind; which, however immediately refult-
ing from a Divine Impulfe, as to the Occafion,
and however fuch too, with Regard to the great
Life and Emphafis of the Expreffion, has yet
its Ground and Foundation in the * Prophecies
of the Old Teftament, eſpecially thoſe of Iſaiah,
concerning the Meffiah, with which Simeon,
from the Circumſtances of his Character here
given, cannot be fuppofed to be unacquainted.
All which, agreeably to this, run wholly upon
* See Ifaiah xlii. 6. and xlix. 6. Daniel ii. 34, 35. Mic.
Pfalm-lxxii. 8, 11.
a
v. 4.
Luke it.
32.
1
6
A SERMON before the Society
a Suppofition of an univerfal Spreading of the
Light of the Gofpel, both among Jews and Gen-
tiles, over the Face of the whole Earth.
AND whatever Allowance may be made for
the lofty and figurative Language the Prophets
fpake in, yet ftill, when no one Point of De-
fcription is found to be fo ftrongly infifted upon,
and fo generally agreed in, by them, as this of
the Univerſality of the Goſpel both among Jew
and Gentile, fomething farther furely than a
partial and imperfect. Reception of it with either
is to be apprehended, as fignified and foretold
by them.
THE Only Points therefore, which ariſe for
our Inquiry on this Subject, are, whether the
Chriſtian Religion has ever, in any Period of
Time fince its Commencement, been fo univer-
fally received and eſtabliſhed among Jew and
Gentile, as fufficiently to anſwer (making all pof-
fible Allowance for the prophetical Style) the
Character, promiſed to it, of Univerfality; or
whether from the concurrent Predictions regard-
ing this Point, compared with the real Event,
we are not authorized to carry our Thoughts and
Expectations forward to fome future more full
and perfect Accompliſhment of the Divine Pro-
mifes in this Particular. Should the former of
theſe Queſtions be refolved in the negative, the
latter muſt neceffarily be affirmed by every Chrif-
tian,
1
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7
tian, who believes and is well affured of the Un-
changeableneſs of God's Word, and that, what-
ever he has promiſed, he will not fail finally to
perform.
AND, for the Refolution of the former of theſe
Queſtions, we need only caft an Eye backward
into Ecclefiaftical Hiſtory, and obſerve the Con-
dition of Chriſtianity, with the feveral Ebbs and
Flows it has undergone in its Progrefs, from
the Death of Chrift to this Day, in order to de-
termine our Belief, that the Period of Time is
yet to come, When the Earth fhall be filled with Ifaiah xi.
the Knowledge of the Lord, as the Waters cover 9.
the Sea.
Matt. xvi.
TRUE indeed it is, that Chrift has graciouſly
promiſed to his Church, that He will be with it Matthew
alway, even unto the End of the World; and that xxviii. 20.
the Gates of Hell fhall not prevail against it; and 18.
as certain it is, that we here affembled at the
Diſtance now of above Seventeen hundred Years,
have abundant Reaſon, with the utmoft Reverence
and Gratitude, to acknowledge the Veracity of
his Word, in the continued Accompliſhment of
his Promiſe from that Time to the preſent.
But as to the Degrees of Brightneſs his Goſpel
ſhould ſhine forth with, and the Compafs of the
Earth to which its Light fhould be extended;
in theſe the Divine Providence has in different
Periods of that Time determined very differently,
though
8
A SERMON before the Society
though in none of them hitherto ſo fully and ex-
tenſively as to equal the prophetical Deſcription ;
fince in the moſt flouriſhing of them it cannot be
found, that ever a fixth Part of the World was
Chriftian. The Time that ſhould bid faireft for
this Purpoſe, is that of Conftantine, when Chri-
ftianity, having gradually by the Purity and
Evidence of its Doctrines, the Conftancy of its
Profeffors, and the Perfecution of its Enemies,
very powerfully prevailed in every Part of the
Roman Empire, came at Length to be the Reli-
gion of the Emperor himſelf, and to have the
full Weight of his Countenance and Authority
for its Propagation among his own Subjects, as
well as of his Example and Protection (at that
Time the moſt powerful Prince in it) for the
Converfion of the reft of the World. But alas !
this fair and pleafing Profpect was foon darkened
and intercepted; in the firſt Place, by the fatal
Diffentions in religious Matters, which Profperity
too eafily fowed among Chriftians themſelves,
than which nothing can be more unfavourable to
the Progreſs of any Religion; and next, by this
great Empire itſelf foon after falling into a gradual
Decay, and both that, and Chriſtianity together with
it, becoming a Prey to the Mahometans in the Eaſt,
and to the repeated Invafions of the Northern
Nations over the Weſtern Parts of it; in the
former of which rich and populous Tracts, Chri-
stianity
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
}
ſtianity has remained from that Time to this in
the ſame ſad State of Captivity and Deſolation;
while in the latter indeed the Conquerors them-
felves, after a Time, became Chriftian; but un-
happily bringing with them many of their own
Prejudices, and as unhappily finding many dan-
gerous Superſtitions already introduced into Chri-
ſtianity, their Union ferved but to produce for
many Ages a State of Religion fo miferably cor-
rupted and obſcured, as to give little Light to
Chriſtians themſelves, much leſs to the Gentile
World.
AND when after a Time true Chriſtianity be-
gan again to rear her Head, by the Revival of the
Ufe and Knowledge of the Holy Scriptures, and
not only a general Reformation of the Church
from Popish Error and Darkneſs ſeemed to be
promiſed, but the Enlargement of her Borders
to be greatly expected; all at once the Reforma-
tion itſelf ſtopt fhort in its Progrefs, from the
unhappy Diviſions of the Reformers themſelves ;
and not only the ſo much defired Increaſe of
Chrift's Kingdom was defeated, but the Re-
formation, then confiderably advanced, of his
Church ftood checked and diſappointed; in
which unfiniſhed, and divided State it has conti-
nued from thence to this Day.
B
BUT
10
A SERMON before the Society
BUT, after all, within how narrow a Compaſs
has the Scene of thefe Ecclefiaftical Revolutions
been tranfacted, if compared to the Whole of the
inhabited Globe? And what immenfe Tracts of
Country in the great Continents of Africa and
Afia, nay even in Europe, have yet fate in Dark-
nefs and the Shadow of Death, in a State either
of intire Ignorance of Chriftianity, or of the
moſt obſtinate Prejudice againft it? While the
vaft American World has remained, till of late,
as utterly ignorant of Chrift, as it was itſelf un-
known to the other Parts of the Earth.
So
little Reaſon have we to think, that the Period
of Chrift's Kingdom is already paft, when all
Pfalm Kings ſhall fall down before him, and all Nations
ſhall ſerve him.
lxxii. 11.
t
}
BUT if the Difficulty is fo great to affign a paſt
Period of the Church for the full Completion of
the former Part of the Prophecy, much greater
will there be to find one for the fulfilling of the
latter, when he was acknowledged to be the
Glory of his People, Ifrael: For in whatever Senſe
the Word Glory be taken, whether of that of
Honour and Boafting; or whether, as it is fome-
times uſed in the New Teſtament, of an exceed-
ing and prevailing Light; with neither of them
will the Cafe of Chrift, with regard to the Jewish
Nation, be found in any tolerable Degree, as yet,
f
to
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
II
to have coincided; certainly not, during the
Courſe of his Miniſtry here on Earth, when his
Perfon was deſpiſed and vilified, his Doctrines
fcorned and rejected by them; and himſelf at
laft brought to the Croſs by the Voice of the
People, and the Counfels and Accufations of their
Chief Priefts and Rulers: Nor yet after his
Death, when his Apoftles and Difciples met
with the fame rough Treatment from them, as
their Maſter had done, and were not only perfe-
cuted by them in the Land of Judæa, but
throughout the feveral Cities of Afia and Greece,
in which they preached the Goſpel. Some have
endeavoured to fix the Period of the Jewiſh Con-
verſion to that of the Deſtruction of their City
and Temple; when, the Proſpect of a future
Meffiah being in great Meaſure cut off by that
Event, they came to look back more attentively
unto Chriſt, and to confider, with greater Seriouf-
neſs and Candor, the Teſtimonies of his Character
and Commiffion. To what Degree thefe Argu-
ments might then have prevailed with many of
them, it is not eaſy to fay; certainly, that they
did not fo far prevail, as to produce any Thing
like a national Converfion, we have the ftrongeft
Proof, from the Evidence now ſtanding before
our Eyes, in the difperfed, and yet ſeparate, Ex-
iſtence of this numerous People, ſtill, after fo
B 2
many
12
A SERMON before the Society
many Ages, in a State of Unbelief, throughout
almoſt every Country under Heaven. A Cafe
unparalleled in the Hiftory of any other Nation;
the Singularity of whofe Circumſtances demands
our moſt awful and religious Regard; God here-
in exhibiting to our View, in their Diſperſion, the
apparent Fulfilling of his Judgments denounced
againſt this hitherto obftinate and impenitent
People; and at the fame Time, by their diftinct
and ſeparate Exiſtence, giving a Pledge as it were
of better Things to come, and an Earneft of
his future gracious Difpenfations towards them;
fuch as he has promiſed to them by Iſaiah,
Ifaiah xi. faying, When it shall come to pass that the Lord
II, 12. Shall fet his Hand again the fecond Time to recover
the Remnant of his People, that ſhall be left; when
he ſhall ſet up an Enfign for the Nations, and ſhall
affemble the Outcafts of Ifrael, and gather together
the difperfed of Judah from the four Corners of the
Ifaiah xliii. Earth. When he shall bring the Seed of Ifrael
from the East, and gather them from the Weft;
when he shall fay to the North, give up; and to
the South, keep not back; bring my Sons from far,
and my Daughters from the Ends of the Earth.
5, 6.
THUS far the Prophecies of the general Con-
verfion of Jew and Gentile, when compared
with what has hitherto happened, ſerve to carry
our Hopes and Expectations forward to fome
future
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
xi. 25.
future Crifis for their final Accompliſhment. But
theſe are not the only Grounds we have for fuch
Expectation; St. Paul in his Epiftle to the Ro-
mans has put this Matter beyond all Difpute,
and has at the ſame Time opened the Connexion
and Dependance which theſe two great Events
have with each other; declaring, that as the In-
fidelity of the Jews had prepared the Way for
the Converfion of the Gentiles; fo the Conver-
fion of the Gentiles, when arrived at a due Matu-
rity and Fulneſs, fhould reciprocally produce the
final Converſion of the Jews. I would not, Bre-Romans
thren, that ye should be ignorant of this Myſtery;
that Blindness in Part has happened unto Ifrael,
until the Fulness of the Gentiles be come in. And
then, proceeding as before in his Addreſs to the
Gentile Profelytes; For as ye in Times paft have lbid. 30,
not believed God, but yet have now obtained Mercy
through their (the Jews) Unbelief; even ſo have
theſe (ſpeaking of the Jews in a national Senfe)
now not believed, that through your Mercy, they
alſo may obtain Mercy. For God has concluded
them all in Unbelief, that he might have Mercy
upon all.
+
31, 32,
THE former of which Events then began to
receive its Accompliſhment, when St. Paul, upon
the Jews of Antioch rejecting the Gofpel, made
them this Declaration. It was neceſſary, that the Acts xiii.
Word 46.
14
A SERMON before the Society
Pfalm
1
lxxvi. 12.
Word of God should firft have been ſpoken to you;
but ſeeing ye put it from ye, and judge yourfelves
unworthy of everlasting Life, lo! I turn to the
Gentiles; for fo bath the Lord commanded us, fay-
ing, I have fet thee to be a Light to the Gen-
tiles, that thou ſhouldft be for Salvation unto the
Ends of the Earth.
THE latter of them is yet in the Hands of
God's Providence, to be fulfilled in his good
Seafon; when he, who refraineth the Spirit of
Princes, and is wonderful among the Kings of the
Earth. And who can fo controul and order the
Affairs of the political World, as to render them
fubfervient to the Purpoſes of his fpiritual King-
dom, will, we doubt not, fulfil his gracious Pro-
miſes in this, and every other Inſtance, in a
Manner moſt fuitable to his infinite Wiſdom
and Truth; but whether by the ordinary Means
of his Providence, or by an extraordinary Inter-
pofition of the Holy Spirit, or whether jointly
by both thefe Methods, or by what other Way,
is not ours to enquire, any more than it is to
fix and determine, with overmuch Confidence
and Preciſion, the exact Times and Seafons when
theſe great Things fhall be; although the pro-
phetical Hiſtory Chrift has left us in his Reve-
lation to St. John, of the State of his Church
from its first Commencement with him here on
Earth,
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
Earth, to its glorious Completion with him in
Heaven, may, from the vifible Fulfilling of his
Word in many of the paſt Periods of it, ſerve
to enlighten and guide our modeft Inquiries with
greater Certainty into thoſe which are to come:
Sufficient however is it for us to know and be-
lieve in general, that God has yet theſe Mercies
in Store for the Enlargement of his Church-
That thus much has been revealed to us for the
Exerciſe of our Faith and Love and Truſt to-
wards him; of our Watchfulneſs over ourſelves,
and of our affectionate and ardent Endeavours
for the Salvation of Mankind.And that far-
ther than anſwers theſe uſeful Purpoſes, is no
Part of the Book of his Providence that is given
for our Perufal. Inſtead therefore of raſh
and uncertain Calculations of Futurity, which
little or nothing concern us, let us rather aſk
ourſelves the more important Queſtions, What are
the Duties refulting from the Truth of this Doc-
trine, and the Nature of our preſent Situation in
Confequence of it? Theſe are Points at all Times
worthy of our moft ferious Inquiry; which,
having a peculiar Coincidence with the Occafion
of this Day's folemn Meeting, ſhall engage the
remaining Part of this Diſcourſe.
First, When we compare the future flouriſh-
ing and extenſive State of Chrift's Church with
its
16
A SERMON before the Society
its prefent limited and divided one; when we
reflect how very inferior a Part of the inhabited
World is at preſent Chriſtian; and how large
a Portion even of that is obfcured by Error, and
corrupted by Idolatry; let us, of this Church
and Nation, learn to value and efteem, as we
ought to do, not only the Bleſſedneſs, but the
Importance too of our Situation, on whom the
Goſpel of Chriſt has fhone forth with its pureſt
Rays, and with whom is in fome Meaſure in-
trufted the Cuftody and Confervation of this pre-
cious Light until the Coming of the Bridegroom,
who ſhall then ſo plentifully diffuſe it over the
whole Earth. Let us confider that the Nature
of our Situation is fuch, that on us, and on our
holy and Chriſtian Conduct, may depend, under
Heaven, not our own Salvation only, but poffi-
bly that of a whole future World: Highly
Luke xii. therefore does it concern us, to have our Loins
35, 36. girded about, and our Lights burning; and to be
like unto Men, that wait for their Lord; not to
fuffer this facred Depofit to grow faint, or be ex-
tinguiſhed in our Hands, through our Drowzineſs
Matt.xxv.or Inattention, but to trim our Lamps, and to
let our Light ſo ſhine before Men, that they may
See our good Works, and glorify our Father which
is in Heaven.
Matt. v.
16.
·BUT
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
BUT fecondly; Next to the Duty of looking
diligently to ourſelves and our own Examples for
the Sake of Chriftianity, the above Confideration
requires, that we ſhould do our utmoſt to pre-
ferve it from Decreaſe and Decay among our
Chriſtian Brethren. This may feem a needleſs
Topic of Exhortation in a Country, like ours,
that calls itſelf Chriſtian; and where every Mem-
ber of the Civil Society has by Baptifm entered
himſelf a Member of the Religious alfo : But
however this may be, a fad and melancholy
Truth it is, lamented by many, and attempted to
be remedied by very few, that Chriſtianity is
vifibly upon the Decline in this our Chriftian
Country; and that inftead of that ferious and
manly Temper which Religion, when rightly
underſtood, does fo naturally infpire, a general
Diffoluteneſs and Effeminacy of Mind and Man-
ners have prevailed in every Rank and Order of
Men among us, together with a total Neglect of
the publick Worſhip of God in many, and with
fuch a reſtleſs and inſatiable Thirſt after Pleaſure
and Diverfion in almoſt all, as leaves no Room
for any one ſerious or religious Thought, or in-
deed for any other Confideration, to take Place,
than that of the Means, feldom the moſt juſtifi-
able, of its own Gratification; while Zeal, which
can fo eafily take Fire among us on every the moſt
C
trifling
18
A SERMON before the Society
1
trifling and ridiculous Occafion, in the only Cauſe
which deſerves and demands it, that of God and
Religion, ſtands idle and unconcerned. In fuch
Circumſtances no fmall Degree of Courage and
Conftancy is required in every good Man to ftem
the Torrent, and to affert the Cauſe of Chriſtanity,
among ſo many who oppoſe it with Vehemence,
or betray it by Indifference. But if here at
Home, and among ourſelves, where the Means
of Religion are (bleffed be God) yet plentifully
fupplied, the charitable Zeal of every good Man
has ſo ample a Field for its Exerciſe, how much
larger is it found to have among our Brethren in
the Colonies Abroad? where little or no Provi-
fion was originally made for the Services of Reli-
gion, and the Means of Inſtruction; and where
the preffing Calls for immediate Subſiſtance, and
for clearing and cultivating their new Settlements,
gave, at leaſt for many Years in their Beginning,
little or no Leifure to keep alive and maintain,
much leſs to improve that Degree, whatever it
might be, of Chriftian Knowledge they brought
with them. So that within the Courſe of a Ge-
neration or two from their firſt Plantation, an
utter Extinction of Chriftianity in fome of our
Colonies was no abfurd or groundleſs Apprehen-
fion: That this Danger was actually apprehended
by the worthy Founders of this venerable Soci-
ety,
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
19
ety, and by the great Prince (who, having pre-
ferved our Religion at Home, laid this Founda-
tion for the farther Preſervation and Extenfion of
it Abroad) is evident from the Reaſons affigned
by him in his Charter for its Eſtabliſhment;
wherein it is alledged, "That for lack of Sup-
હર port and Maintenance for Minifters for the
<<
publick Worſhip of God in many of the Co-
"lonies, many of his Subjects wanted the Ad-
"miniſtration of God's Word and Sacraments,
" and feemed to be abandoned to Atheiſm and
Infidelity." High Time furely this for
every one, who wiſhed well to his Religion and
his Country, to interpoſe, in order to prevent the
eternal Difgrace of the one, by a timely and ef-
fectual Refcue of the other. That fuch did in-
terpofe, and with what Succeſs, from that 'Time
to this, their pious and publick ſpirited Interpo-
fition has been attended, let the printed Accounts
of each Year's Tranſaction teſtify; wherein, not-
withſtanding the many Difficulties they have
met with of every Kind, and from almoſt every
Quarter; and the Smallneſs and Inadequateneſs
of the Fund, to the Importance and Extent of
the Occafion, it will be found that not only
Chriſtianity has hitherto been preſerved from ut-
ter Ruin in many of our Colonies by their Means,
but a Foundation too laid for the farther Spread-
1
C 2
ing
20
A SERMON before the Society
ing of its Light, in God's good Time, over the
whole Continent of North America. Which
leads me to remark a
Third Inftance of Duty, arifing from the
Confideration of the future Univerſality of the
Gofpel, viz. That we fhould do our utmoſt
to co-operate with God's Grace in this Work
of his Providence, and to prepare the Way, as
far as human Means can avail, for this great
Event; which, how and in what Manner
God will be pleaſed to bring about, as I before
obſerved, is not ours to inquire; though thus
much may be gathered from Obſervation on the
Courſe of his Providence in other Cafes, that fu-
pernatural Means will not be uſed by him, unleſs
where human and natural ones prove infuffi-
cient: As far therefore as our pious and earneſt
Endeavours for this End fhall be found to be
fucceſsful, ſo far may we rejoice in being made
the Inftruments of his Providence for this great
Good to Mankind: And that they have been
already ſucceſsful to fuch Degree, as by no
Means to difcourage our farther Purſuit, the
Annals of this Society will fhew; which has
added to that, recommended under my former
Head, this farther Work of Chriftian Love, the
Propagating the Gospel of Chrift in Foreign
Parts, eſpecially in thoſe, where the Settlements.
already made by our Nation give a more fair
and
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
21
and eaſy Entrance, and where a double Oppor-
tunity is prefented for the Exercife of our Cha-
rity, both among the plain and fimple Indians,
who, from their Neighbourhood and growing
Connexion with our Colonies, are moſt likely
to receive and retain the Impreffions of our holy
Religion, as well as among the unhappy Negroes,
who, by a Sort of Traffick not eaſy to be vindi-
cated, being reduced to a State of bodily Slavery
for the Purpoſes of our Colonies, have certainly
the juſteſt Claim upon us for every Inftance of
Compenſation that is in our Power, eſpecially
that moſt valuable and obvious one, the Com-
munication of the Goſpel Light.
To conclude. When fuch are the Duties
which the Confideration of the future Enlarge-
ment of Chriſt's Kingdom fuggeſts; and when
we ſee this Society, thus excellently conſtituted
for the great Purpoſe of fulfilling theſe Duties,
with far more Efficacy and Succefs than can
poffibly ariſe from any fingle unconcerted At-
tempts of our own, let us earneſtly combine with
Hand and Heart for the Support and Increaſe of
it, and not fuffer it to fink and languiſh under
the growing Weight of its many and extenſive
Engagements, but endeavour, by every Method
of Encouragement, as God has been pleaſed in
profpering
22
A SERMON before the Society, &c.
profpering the Labours of this Society, fo greatly
to enhance the Demands upon it, that the Means
of fupplying thefe Demands may be enlarged
and multiplied in Proportion; and that all of us,
who daily join in our Prayers to Almighty God
for the coming of his Kingdom, may give our Af-
fiſtance likewiſe in ready Concurrence with this
Society, according to our feveral Talents and
Abilities, to promote the Accompliſhment of it;
Rev. xi. until the Kingdoms of this World ſhall become the
Kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Chriſt; and be
Phil. ii. fhall reign for ever and ever; and till every Tongue
fhall confefs, that Jefus Chrift is Lord, to the
Glory of God, the Father.
15.
II.
An
A
SERMON
न
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
AT THE IR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Parish Church of ST. MARY-LE-BOW,
Ón FRIDAY February 15, 1750.
By the Right Reverend Father in GOD,
JOHN Lord Biſhop of PETERBOROUGH.
LONDON:
Printed by EDWARD OWEN in Warwick-Lane:
And Sold by J. ROBERTS in Warwick-Lane;
and A. MILLAR, at Buchanan's Head in the Strand.
M DCC LI.
1
གཡོཡཾཔལ་
1
*
<
7
7 4+
१
1
i
{
1.
At the Anniverfary Meeting of the
Society for the Propagation of the
Goſpel in Foreign Parts, in the Veftry-
Room of St. Mary-le-Bow, on Friday
the 15th Day of February, 1750.
A
GREED, That the Thanks of
the SOCIETY be given to the
Right Reverend the Lord Bishop of
Peterborough, for his Sermon preached
this Day before the SOCIETY, and
that his Lordſhip be defired to deliver
a Copy of the fame to the SoCIETY
to be Printed.
-
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary.
14X4
{
2
$
I
}
等
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أكبر النور
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4
ROM. II. 2.
For there is no Refpect of Perfons with
God.
$
}
HE Declaration in my Text is
plain and peremptory, highly
agreeable to our natural No-
tions of the Supreme Being,
and reprefents Him in the
True and Amiable Light of
being equally concerned for
the Interefts and Happineſs of all his Crea-
tures.
1
And yet there are fome of the Divine Deal-
ings with Mankind, which feem to contradict
this general Declaration, and have given Occa-
fion for Expoftulation and Complaint: His
Choice of the Jewish Nation to be his peculiar
People,
A 2
3
$
}
тлов
4.
+
ASERMON before the Society
People, before He fent His Son into the World;
and the partial Communication of that Goſpel,
which He was fent to preach, are Proceedings;
which, taken in Conjunction with this Declara
tion, may be thought to deferve a particular Ex-
amination, and will find us an Employment,
not unfuitable to the Prefent Solemnity.
That God chofe the Jews, feparated them
from all other Nations, favoured them with Re-
velations, and other peculiar Bleffings, is a Point
too notorious to be difputed: The Scripture is
full of this Divine Proceeding: We are there
informed, that God has chofen Jacob, that He
loved him, that He gave his Statutes and Ordi-
nances unto Ifrael, that He hath not dealt fo with
any Nation, neither have the Heathen Knowled
of his Laws.
>
A
Is He then the God of the Jews only? How
is this Account to be reconciled with my Text,
or with the equal Love of the Father of all
Mankind?: Was there any Superiority of Virtue
in the Jews, which might ſeem to require this
indulgent Treatment? Their Law-giver has de-
clared the Contrary, and has particularly guarded
them againſt any ſuch undue Opinion of them-
felves: The Lord thy God giveth thee not this
good Land to poffels it for thy Righteousness," for
thou art a stiff-necked People: Neither was it
becauſe they were a Great or Mighty Nation
for
#
for the *
5
Propagation of the Gospel.
for the fame Writer obferves, that they were
the feweſt of all People. There are no Circum-
ftances, as far as we can trace this Matter, which
could intitle them to the peculiar Favour with
which they were treated.
-In order to clear up this feeming Difficulty,
it may be proper to obferve, that there is no
Judging with any Propriety, and much leſs
with any Certainty, of the whole Scheme of
Providence by any of its temporary Diſpenſa-
tions: The Equality of God's Dealings with His
Creatures is certainly relative to their whole Ex-
iſtence, and cannot therefore be meaſured by
any temporary Expedients, which His Wifdom
fhall make. Choice of in conducting His great
Defign. Many Things that ſeem diforderly and
confuſed as to Parts, are not fo with regard to
the Whole: But it is above our natural Capa-
cities to contemplate the whole Frame of Provi-
dence: And is not this the true Reaſon, why
we are offended at the Parts of it?
i
The Jews were God's chofen and peculiar
People, not from any Partiality to them, but in
Corder the better to anſwer the Purpoſes of His
Providence, which were at the fame Time full
of Grace and Mercy to all Mankind. As they
were His chofen People, and furrounded on every
Side' by Idolatry, they could not be too well
fenced-in by Peculiarities, in order the more
smd
effectually
1
6
ASERMON before the Society,
effectually to preferve them from the general
Infection; and this View of the Ceremonial Law,
taken in Conjunction with the Typical Nature
of it, fufficiently explains its Ufe, and vindicates
its Fitnefs and Wifdom... The Ceremonial Law
was, you fee, plainly inftituted to anfwer tem-
porary Ends; and, as the Whole was to be done
away, the Partition-Wall to be broken down, and,
in the Fulneſs of Time, to make Way for that
better Difpenfation, to which it had all along
alluded, this whole Proceeding is, I apprehend,
perfectly reconcileable with the general Truth
laid down in my Text.
¡
This Manner of confidering and treating the
Subject before us, will account likewife for the
Compliances, which were made to the Prejudices
and Superftition of that People. There are no
fuch Compliances made in the Goſpel, which
is to be an everlasting Rule, and confequently to
give Way to no other. But though no fuch
Compliances are made here to the Hardneſs or
Perverfeneſs of our Hearts, which would have
been unfuitable to the Nature of this perfect
Difpenfation, we fhould reflect with the utmoft
Gratitude, that it has not only increaſed, but
even afcertained our Hopes of Pardon Cupon
true Repentance.
7
}
ว
What ſhall we fay to another Work of Pro-
vidence, which ſeems to lie open to fome of the
fame
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7
L
fame Objections? Was it not an Inftance of great
Partiality to bring the World under the Roman
Government? If we confider the Romans in a
Religious View, we can fee nothing that could
intitle them to this Preheminence: They were
as great Sinners and Idolaters as the reſt of Man-
kind: What could there be in the Character of
theſe Robbers and Plunderers of the World,
that ſhould procure them Univerſal Empire?
They were, it is true; remarkable for their Va-
'lour, and Policy, and Love of Liberty; but they
were as remarkable for their Treachery, In-
. juftice, and Cruelty. And how came it to paſs,
that theſe Vices did not defeat that Scheme,
which their publick Virtues had encouraged them
to attempt *. We can never fatisfy ourſelves
upon this Point, without confidering them as
Inftruments in the Hands of God: And there-
fore the proper Light in which we ſhould view
it is this, That the undeſerved Height to which
they were raiſed, was the Work of Providence
for accomplishing its own wife Ends, and was
no Effect of Favour or Partiality towards that
People. Thefe Ends appeared, as the Scheme
opened itſelf more and more to View; and we
}
It is fomewhere judiciouſly obferved, that their Perfeverance
and Patience of Fatigue and Labour were probably the Effects of
the Fear of Vengeance from other Nations, to whoſe Refentment
and Rage they had ſo juſtly expoſed themſelves.
at
"
8
A SERMON before the Society
·
at laft perceive, that a very important Event was
to be anſwered by it for by the World's being
thus fubject to their Laws, and acquainted with
their Language, the Gofpel had an eaſier and
freer Courſe. than it could have found, if the
World had been parcel'd out into little King-
doms.
1
2
The Jews, we fee, were nationally rejected
upon their rejecting the Meffiah; and the Gen-
tiles were taken in, in their Place, under the
Goſpel Difpenfation; whereas if they had been
chofen out of Partiality, the fame Partiality
would have prevented their being caft away *.
Nay, even under the Jewish they fuffered or
profpered, as they diſobeyed or obeyed the Law
of Moſes.
At last we know, that they were;
· Patterns of more extraordinary Judgments than
ever yet befel any Nation or People; and that
all the Plagues threatened to fuch as bore Ill-
will to Sion, fell at laft on her Friends and In-
habitants. They were therefore diftinguifhed:
from others, to exemplify the Divine Juſtice as
well as Mercy.
1 f
In fhort, this Favour to the Jewish Nation
was plainly intended, as one Means that the
Saviour of the World might be the more eaſily
* There are ſeveral noble Sentiments to our preſent Purpoſe, in
the Second Book of Efdras, which will ferve to throw Light upon
theſe Points, and to which therefore I refer the curious Reader.
diſtinguiſhed,
i
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
*
•
diſtinguiſhed, when he appeared among us:
Some of the Signs by which we were to know
him, were the Completion of Prophecies which
went before concerning Him; and it is remark-
able, that in theſe Prophecies, His Nation, His
Country, and even His Family, are pointed out:
Some Nation therefore, and Country, and even
Family, muſt be chofen in order to the Ac-
compliſhment of theſe Prophecies. The Jews
were therefore ſeparated and difcriminated from
the rest of Mankind, becauſe the Scheme of
Providence required, that one People ſhould be
ſet apart, in order to its being carried regularly
into Execution; but the univerfal Good was
confulted in this Proceeding, and the Benefit
arifing from it was defigned to redound to all
Mankind. And what one Réafon can be af
figned, why the Houfe of David, the Country
of Judæa, and the Town of Bethlehem ſhould not
be pitched upon as well as any other? There is
no Room for any pertinent Objections upon thefe
Points.
If any One ſhould aſk, (which is not im-
probable, confidering the preſent Manner of
treating the Divine, Difpenfations) Why this was
the Method of Providence in reftoring Man,
and why fuch a Plan was pitched upon, as made
it neceffary to chufe a peculiar People? It feems
to be a fufficient Reply, that this Plan was cer-
B
tainly
10
ASERMON before the Society.
•
tamly wife and fit, whether we can diſcover that
Wifdom and Fitnefs or not, and that no Cón-
clufion can be more agreeable to our unpreju-
diced Reaſon, than that God has a clear and
undoubted Reight to convey his Bleffings to
Mankind in his own Way. If this Account
ftill appears to any one rather to cut fhort than
fatisfy this Enquiry; I would ftill advife him
not to be too hafty in his Cenfures; for what
he thinks Irregularities and Defects, may be
really fo many Inftances of Harmony and De
fign; and a Time will come, when the Wiſdom
of God will be as clearly feen in the Government
of the Moral, as it is in the Fabriek of the Na-
tural World!
x
•
It is natural for the Ignorant and Short-fighted
to wonder at the Operations of the Wife and
Skilful; but nothing can be more unnatural or
prepofterous, than to cavil at, much more con-
demn them, becaufe we cannot, at prefent, per-
fectly reconcile them to our ſhort, and narrow,
and very imperfect View of Things.
We know that God tried Abraham, and found
him faithful, before the Promife was made to
his Seed; and we learn from Scripture, that the
Strength of the Patriarch's Faith was very inftru-
mental in entailing this Bleffing upon his Fa-
mily. It greatly recommended Him to the Favour
of God: And if He faw fit to reward it in this
Manner;
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
I I
Manner if He was pleafed to make him the
Instrument of conveying this Bleffing to Man-
kind: Who has any Right to object, or what
juft Ground is there of Complaint?
To Abraham and his Seed were the Promifes
made; but the Bleflings, which were to flow
from thoſe Promifes, were unconfined and uni-
verfal. In this Reſpect, there is neither Jew nor
Greek, there is neither Bond, nor Free, there is
neither Male nor Female; there is no Diftinction,
for ye are all one in Chrift Jefus *
It was neceffary to offer fomething in Anſwer
to this Objection, which feemed to ſtand ſo di-
rectly in the Way of my Text; but the other
Objection is what I defigned to make the prin-
cipal Subject of this Difcourfe, namely, The
Partial Communication of the Gofpel to Man-
kind.
And here I would repeat this general Obfer-
vation, which has been frequently made upon
the Point before us, that neither Natural nor
Revealed Light can be fo equally diſpenſed, as
the Objection ſeems to require, unleſs the preſent
Conftitution of Things fhould be quite altered,
unleſs the Abilities, Capacities, Improvements
and Situation of all Mankind were attended with
Many shall come from the East and West, and shall fit down
with Abraham and Haac and Jacob, in the Kingdom of Heaven,
Matt, viii, 11.
B 2
equal
12
A SERMON before the Society
*
•
equal Advantagés. One Man's Syftem of Na-
tural Religion will be more compleat than ano-
ther's, as he forms it upon better Lights and
fuller Inftruction; as he is better able to judge
for himſelf, or as he falls into the Hands of
thofe, who are better able to judge for him : And
the Cafe will be found to be much the fame
with respect to Revelation *.
"
An Objection therefore, which thus affects the
whole Plan of Providence with regard to the
Moral World, muft undoubtedly proceed from
our Ignorance; and I would fubmit it to the
Judgment of every wife and ſerious Man, whe-
ther this Confideration alone is not a fufficient
Anſwer to the Objection, that, upon our ad
mitting it, this Confequence will follow, that
the whole Scheme of Providence is wrong and
defective; and that there is one univerfal Errour
in the prefent Conftitution of Things.
But it is not neceffary to reft the Point here,
becauſe our own unprejudiced Enquiries will
* I would not here be understood to mean, that Revelation in
general can be fubject to any Alterations, or receive any Improve-
ments from any Difference of Apprehenfion or Capacity in Man.
kind. The Faith, of the Goſpel is once for all delivered, and muft
ever continue one and the fame. But yet when we confider the
Cafe of particular Perfons, enquiring into it in order to receive or
reject it, the Point at prefent before us, here the various Ca-
pacities and different Helps, which they make ufe of in Examining
and Judging, muſt and will have their Influence; in much the
Same Manner as they have, with regard to Natural Religion.
lead
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
·
$
lead us to conclude, that if the preſent Scheme
was altered to thefe Mens Minds, new and
greater Difficulties would certainly arife: Society,
to which we owe fo many Comforts and Blef-
fings, would be diffolved, and there would be
no going on under fuch a Parity of Circum-
ſtances with reſpect to Light and Knowledge, as
would then be introduced. If there was that
exact Equality of Natural and Revealed Light,
which the Objection requires; How could that
Diverfity in other Inftances, which is fo wifely
and beneficially ordered, fubfift? There muſt be
a Diverſity in the Underſtandings, as well as Si-
tuation and Circumftances of Mankind, to anſwer,
and to carry on, this wife Purpoſe.
The Sower goes out to fow his Seed, whilft the
Philofopher is folving his Problem. Which of
theſe is moſt uſefully employed, it is not at all
neceffary to determine. Each is ferving Man-
kind, though in a different Way: But if the
Sower was qualified by Learning and Genius for
Philofophical Enquiries, and called off from his
Employment in the Field, a very uſeful and
indeed neceffary Branch of Buſineſs muſt be at a
Stand. Are all Teachers? Do all peak with
Tongues? Do all interpret? It is happy for us
that, they do not. Upon this Foot, what Provi-
fion could be made for the Conveniences, Ac-
commodations,
}
14
ASBRMON before the Society
commodations, and all the lower Offices of
Life?
1
A
ཀརྟ་ཁ
Having made this general Obfervation, I ſhall
enter more minutely into the Objection: For
this Purpoſe I would aſk, What certain Rule`we
have of judging, who they were that were beft
diſpoſed to receive the Gofpel? Becauſe, upon
a Suppofition, that fome were better difpofed
than others, this Difpofition might probably
procure a Preference. In one Place the Light
of Nature might have been more fteadily and
confiftently followed than in another; and they
who made the right and proper Ufe of that,
ſeem to have had a jufter Claim to the brighter
Light of the Gofpel. Where the Light of Na-
ture had been totally difregarded, and almoſt
quite extinguiſhed, What reaſonable Profpect
was there, that the Goſpel would meet with
kinder Treatment? You may probably argue,
that this Blindneſs rendered them fitter Objects
of the Divine Care and Compaffion; but you
will find it extremely difficult to fhew, how the
Abuſe and Contempt of one Law can be con-
fidered and urged as an Argument, why the
Law-giver fhould propoſe another. If further
Light ſhould have been afforded, and thould have
been treated in the fame contemptuous Manner,
you fee a plain Reafon why, for the Sake of
the Perfons who are fuppofed to want it, it
+
fhould
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
+
fhould not have been granted. It cannot, I
think, be reaſonably doubted, but that the greater
the Light is againft which we offend, the greater
will be our Condemnation; and confequently the
Light of the Gofpel, where it is not duly at-
tended to, will certainly render us more inex-
cufable.:
As the Goſpel was to be preached by the
Apoftles, and they were to go and difciple all
Nations; that one Nation fhould hear thefe
glad Tidings fooner than another was unavoid-
able. Unwearied as the Apoftles Zeal and Di-
ligence was, it could go on but by Degrees in
this Work; unlefs the Converfion wrought at
one Place fhould have inftantaneouſly operated
upon the next, and fo on, till the Converfion
became univerſal; unleſs the Diſciples had con-
verted, as their Lord cured, Mankind at the
greateſt Diſtance. What Room would there
then have been for the feveral Arguments, and
for the rational Procefs, by which the Goſpel
was to make its Way into the Efteem and Obe-
dience of Mankind? What Credit would fuch
inftantaneous Converfions have done to Chri-
tianity? An Effect thus fuddenly wrought,
without any the leaft Addrefs to the Reafon of
Mankind, might as eafily and fuddenly have
been deftroyed.
$
They whe received and embraced the Gofpel,
at t
when
}
16
before the Society
A SERMON મા
when it was firſt propoſed to them, received and
embraced it foon enough. If you ask, why it
was not propoſed to them fooner; you aſk a
Queftion, which concerns neither them nor you.
The Goſpel could be no Law to them, till it
was duly promulged; and as to the Times and
Seafons, the Father hath put them in his own
Power, and is not accountable to you.
And therefore, though thefe glad Tidings
were offered to fome fooner, to fome later, there
is no Pretence for accufing either the Juftice or
Goodness of God: None can be confidered as
injured, Revelation being a Matter, not of ſtrict
Juſtice but of mere Favour: And when once
we admit, that the fitteſt Seaſon, beft fuited to
their particular State and Condition, was chofen
for this Offer, of which we can make no rea-
fonable Doubt, what was before the falfe
Ground of the Objection, will become the juſt
Ground of Duty and Gratitude.
Signs and Wonders attended the Goſpel at its
firſt ſetting out; and probably, if they had not,
the Goſpel could not have effected, certainly
not fo foon, what it was defigned to bring
about. Inveterate Errors and rooted Prejudices
were, in many Inftances, too hard for their
united Force. But Men now receive and em-
brace the Goſpel with equal Reaſon, without
this Ocular Proof of its Divine Original. The
faithful
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
$
faithful, unſuſpected Reports of theſe Miracles,
added to the undoubted Completion of Prophe-
cies, and the internal Characters and Excellence
of the Chriſtian Religion, are a full and unex-
ceptionable Recommendation of it to the Mind
of Man.
1
1
When proper Evidence, and fuch as is fitted
to convince reaſonable Beings, is laid before us; it
is to no Purpoſe to object or complain, that other
Nations enjoyed greater. Suppoſing the Ob-
jection to be true; if we have Evidence enough,
Providence has no Concern with our wanton
Demands. There must be Room left for In-
genuity and Choice: There was plainly no In-
tention to force the Chriftian Revelation upon
any Man; for, if there had, the fame Power
that fupported it, could have obliged all to re-
ceive it:
Miracles were defigned to facilitate,
not to conſtrain, our Affent; to raiſe and engage.
our Attention, which is apt to flag under ſerious
and Religious Enquiries; and then to lead us:
into a juft Efteem and firm Belief of thoſe
Truths, which are fupported and recommended:
by a Divine Power, Our Lord, as we are in-
formed, did not many mighty Works in his own
Country and the Reafon affigned is their Un-
belief: Stubborn Prejudices, and wilful Blind-.
nefs, fhut out the Divine Goodneſs and Com
paffion………. Theſe are always ready to affift the
Ingenuous
ད་?
}
C
18
A SERMON before the Society
Ingenuous and Honeft, but expect and require
our own Concurrence,
}
-
God fees the Hearts, knows the Abilities, and
meaſure's the Capacities of Mankind with un-
erring Certainty. In Confequence of this perfect
Knowledge, He proportions His Gifts and Fa-
vours to the feveral. Occafions, which call for
them; and therefore, no Doubt, obferves the
ſtricteſt Equality in His Dealings, at the very
Time when we fancy we difcover fome Partia
lity. The true Way of recommending ourſelves
to the Favour of God, is to make a proper and
careful Uſe of that Evidence which He now
affords us. And the happy Confequence will be
this, that, without requiring greater, without
infifting with St. Thomas, upon feeing in our
Lord's Hand the Print of the Nails, and putting
our Finger into the Print of the Nails, and thruf
ing our Hand into his Side, we ſhall fee fufficient
Reaſon to believe, and to call Him our Lord,
• and our God.
>
*
But, after all, are we fure that the Objection
itſelf is well founded? There are feveral Rea-
fons to induce us to believe that the Publication
of the Goſpel by the Apoſtles, and their Dif-
ciples, was very extenfive, though the Marks
and Traces of it in many Places feem to have
been loft afterwards.
Our Lord's Direction, we know, was this,
Go
1
for the Progagation of the Gospel.
19
TE
مگر
Go.je, into all the World, and preach the Gospel
to every Creature. And to this, Queftion, How
ſhall they call on whom they have not believed, and
bow, ſhall they believe of whom they have not
beard, how fall they hear without a Preacher, and
how shall they preach, unless they are. fent? The
Apoſtle to the Romans anfwers in this Manner :
But I fay, have they not heard? Yes verily : Their
Sound went into all the Earth; and their Words
unto the Ends of the World. Accordingly we
find, that the Chriftians were numerous in every
Part of the known World in the First Century:
The Labours and Succefs of St. Paul alone were
furprizingly great. The Acts of the Apostles and
their Epistles give us a large Detail of their un-
wearied Diligence in fpreading the Notices of
the Goſpel And Ecclefiaftical Hiſtory informs
us, that there was the fame Zeal and Applica-
tion in thoſe holy Perfons who fucceeded them,
and that, in Confequence of this Zeal and Ap-
plication, whole Nations and Countries were
converted to the Knowledge of Chrift Jefus *.)
12
It feems therefore reaſonable to conclude
from theſe Accounts, that by far the greater
Part, if not all the then known World was
10
+
.1
* We are indebted to the Care and Induftry of Eufebius for pre-
ferving the few Fragments there are relating to this Point: He
complained, in his Time, that he wanted Materials for his Work.
Ecclef Hift. lib. x. Jub initio.
C 2
vifited
20
A SERMON before the Society
vifited by this Light: And as to thoſe Parts,
which have been fince difcovered, and ſtill we
have Reaſon to believe, fit in Darkness, their
Time of Refreshing will, I make no Doubt, come,
when that Part of the Scheme of Providence,
relating to them, is to be carried into Execution.
The whole Plan of Providence is the Work of
Ages, and every Age has its Part to act.
#
It is, I apprehend, no fufficient Objection, <
that what has been urged with reſpect to the
Apoſtles and Firft Preachers, does not appear
probable from the prefent Face of Things; that
it is extremely hard to conceive how they could
do fo much in propagating Chriftianity, when
fo much ſtill remains to be done. In Anfwer to
this I would obferve, that if in any Parts of the
known World, when the Goſpel was first
preached, there are now no Remains of it, it
was, for any Evidence we can produce to the
Contrary, at first rejected. The Perfons, to
whom it was propofed, might be too proud and
fenfual to embrace it. Some probably at firſt
received it gladly; but, for Want of Firmneſs and
Conftancy of Mind, or from fome wrong Bent
and Attachment, the Seed could take no deep
or lafting Root. It ſhould always be remem-
bered, that the Reception and Succefs of Chri-
stianity muft, in the laſt Reſult, depend upon
the Temper and Difpofition of thoſe Minds, to
which
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
21
ཀ
which it is propofed, unleſs you would have
thefe over-ruled by an Act of Power, to which
there are infuperable Objections. So likewiſe,
when Men have once received it, the Benefits
and Advantages, and even Continuance of it
among them, muft depend greatly upon their
Behaviour towards it. If they neglect or defpife
-it, it may be loft or taken away, as the Confe-
quence or Puniſhment of their own Perverſeneſs
and Ingratitude...
In * Pliny the Younger and + Tertullian's
Time the Chriſtians were grown fo confiderable
in Point of Number, as to be thought for-
midable; and Chriftianity went on increafing
and triumphing, till Ignorance and Superſtition
ſtopt its Progrefs, by corrupting its Purity, and
defacing its Amiableneſs, in the moſt ſhameful
Manner.
In ſeveral Centuries an unavoidable Stop was
put to the Propagation of Pure Chriftianity, by
the Ignorance and Superftition, which almoft
univerſally prevailed. Some of thefe Centuries
have been fo barren, that all uſeful and valuable
Knowledge of every Kind has been at a Stand;
and the only Progrefs that was made, was made,
if I may ſo ſpeak, in a Deflection from Reaſon
and good Senfe, and real Piety. There was an
* Plin. Epift. Lib. 10. Epift. 97. ad Trajanum.
+ Tertul. Apol. cap. 37.
Inundation
22
A SIRM ON before the Society.
*
Inaridation of Barbarifm broke in upon usin
the Fifth and Sixth Centuries; and in the Ninth
and Tenth, and fome fubfequent ones, the
Profpect was very melancholy. But upon the
Improvement of Arts and Sciences, the Revival
of Learning, which had been buried under Po-
pifh Darkness; and by the Diſcoveries made by
Navigation and Commerce in the formerly un-
known Parts of the World, the happy Means of
advancing and enlarging the Kingdom of Chrift
are miniſter'd'to us abundantly.
+
#
Learning revived in the Fifteenth Century, and
we reformed from Popery in the Sixteenth. It was
Learning that firft brought about the Reforma-
tion, and has ever fince defended it. Theſe are
Ara's that can never be forgotten, as they have
greatly facilitated the Progrefs of the Gofpel, in
its natural Simplicity, in its genuine Purity.
But whatever Steps have been hitherto taken,
or fhall hereafter be taken in propagating the
True Knowledge of Chrift, the Promife, relating
to the Gentiles, will certainly, in God's own
Time, be made good. Wife and inquifitive
Men are apt to pleaſe themſelves in tracing fome
of the previous Steps to this intereſting Difpen-
fation: The Difcoveries which have been made
of new Countries, the great Improvements in
the Art of Navigation, and the unwearied En-
deavours of THIS WORTHY SOCIETY to carry the
Fulness
1
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
23
Fulness of the Blefings of the Gospel of Peace into
the new World, into the Plantations and Colo-
nies in America and the Wt-Indies, feem to
them, in their pious and humble Enquiries, to
lead to this happy Conclufion.
I'
And there can be no reaſonable Doubt, but
that a Time will likewife come, when God will
have Mercy on his ancient People *.
When not only the Fulness of the Gentiles ſhall
come in, but when all Ifrael fhall be faved. When,
in the Language of the Prophet, He hall caufe
them that come of Jacob to take Root, when Ifrael
Shall bloom and bud. When all fhall embrace Ifai. xxvii.
that Goſpel of Chriſt, of which we ſeem at
préfent to be weary, if not hamed, with Joy
and Tranſport.
Then Shall the Righteous flourish, and Abun-
dance of Peace be as long as the Morn endureth :
He shall have Dominion from Sea to Sea; from
the River to the Ends of the Earth: They that
dwelt in the Wilderness fhall bow before Him, and
bis Enemies shall lick the Duft; yea, all Kings
fhall fall down before Him; all Nations ſhall ſerve
Him! The preſent Scene of Vice and Mifery
cannot be lafting!
2
* The fetus have been ſo far from engroffing the Bleffings of
the Meffiah to themſelves, that they are almoft the only Nation
that has had no Part in them.
6.
}
Thefe
24
A SERMON before the Society
Theſe Contemplations at the fame Time ene
large and relieve our Minds: They enable us to
fee through the Diſorder and Confufion which
now prevail, and they in fome Sort anticipate
thofe happy Times, when God's Way will be
fully known upon Earth, his faving Health among
all Nations; when the Kingdoms of this World ſhall
become the Kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Chrift;
and he ſhall reign for ever and ever. lurima ve
All this will certainly come to pafs, in God's
due Time; but yet, fince the Propagation of
Chriſtianity is now left to human Means, it is
doubtlefs our Duty to be as inftrumental as we
can in fpreading abroad the Knowledge of its
And as we have greater Opportunities than other
Proteftant Powers, by Means of our extenfive
Commerce, and that Wealth which is the Con-
fequence of fuch a Commerce, this Confidera-
tion affords an additional Obligation. Indeed
it would be ſtrangely inconfiftent, if the pre-
fent Age, which is fo juftly diftinguifhed for
its compaffionate Regard to the Temporal Wants
and Diftreffes of Mankind, fhould betray an
Indifference and Unconcernednefs for their Eter-
nal Welfare.
$
f
But if we would effectually promote and
ferve Chriſtianity, let us in the firft Place live
like Chriftians: A Life and Conduct, form'd
upon Chriftian Principles, will ever be amiable,
and
for the Propagation of the Goppel.
25
+
and will draw all Men tinto it Above all, it
concerns thofe, who are fent on this Miffiony to
take heed to themſelves, and to their Doctrine, gi-
ving na Offence in any Thing. As to their Learn-
ing and Capacities, it is by no means neceffary,
that they thould be great or uncommon. Per-
fons of plain Understandings and good Lives
may, undoubtedly do confiderable Service. Men
of great Abilities are more wanted to defend the
Chriftian Religion, than to teach it; and the
Want of fuch Abilities to defend it, arifes more
from the Perverſeneſs and Subtilty of its Adver-
faries, than from any real Difficulty in that Reli-
gion, as it was originally propoſed to Mankind.
It was one of our Lord's First Inftructions to his
Difciples, to let their Light fo fhine before Men,
that they might fee their good Works, and glorify
their Father in Heaven. And He all along pro-
poſes the greateſt Advantages to His Religion,
from the Simplicity and Imocency of their Lives,
who taught and recommended it...
They therefore, who are lefs able to ſerve
Chriſtianity by their Pens, may, as I have juſt
hinted, do it fignal Service by their Lives; and,
provided they are well inftructed in the great.
Evidences for their Religion, and have Prudence
enough not to be drawn off, and diverted from
thefe, into Points of more Intricacy, but lefs
Moment, will always be ready to give an An-
D
fwer
726
A SERMON before the Society, &c.
fwar to every Man of the Hope that is in them.
But an exemplary and unblameable Life muft
on no Account be difpenfed with, and therefore
here the Care of the Society always has been, and
I truft always will be, moſt attentive and watch-
ful.
✔
}
f
I must not weary your Patience, and will
therefore add only a few Words more. In all
our Endeavours to propagate the Golpel of Chrift,
let the Meekness and Gentleness of Christ have
their due and proper Influence: Let us avoid
all Force, and Violence, and Cruelty, and re-
member always, that True Chriſtianity foftens as
well as purifies the Heart. Theſe unnatural
Means have greatly retarded it's Progrefs, and
left bad Impreffions of Chriftianity itſelf. The
Way therefore is to reafon as Men, and to be
feech as Chriftians > to exprefs all that Concern
and Compaffion for thoſe who fit in Darkness,
which their Caſe really deferves; and with all
Forbearance and Long-fuffering, to guide their
Feet into the Way of Peace. And may God give
*Succefs to our Endeavours, for the Sake of Jefus
Chriſt, &c.
f
*
}
sbs
狸
​$
...
An
1
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SoCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Parish Church of ST. MARY-LE-BOW,
On FRIDAY February 21, 1752.
By the Right Reverend Father in GOD,
RICHARD Lord Biſhop of CARLISLE.
LONDON:
Printed by EDWARD OWEN in Warwick-Lane:
And Sold by J. ROBERTS in Warwick-Lane;
and A. MILLAR, at Buchanan's Head in the Strand.
MDCCLII.
}
initar
*
มี
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the
Society for the Propagation of the
Gofpel in Foreign Parts, in the Veftry-
Room of St. Mary-le-Bow, on Friday
the 21ª Day of February, 1752,
A
GREED, That the Thanks of
the SOCIETY be given to the
Right Reverend the Lord Biſhop of
Carlisle, for his Sermon preached this
Day before the SOCIETY, and that
his Lordſhip be defired to deliver a Copy
of the fame to the SoCIETY to be
Printed.
>
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary.
}
$
MAT. viii. II. .
And I fay unto you, that many fhall come
from the East and Weft, and fhall fit
down with Abraḥam, and Ifaac, and
Jacob, in the Kingdom of Heaven.
HE Prophecies of the Old and
New Teftament, upon a cur-
fory View, ſeem rather to ob-
fcure than illuftrate God's
righteous Government in the
moral World, as many Things
theſe refer to are not eafily underſtood. But
yet, whoever fully confiders the whole Series of
Divine Prophecies, or any one of God's Pre-
dictions foretelling, how Events would follow
in diſtant Periods of Time, and carefully com-
A 2
pares
1
3
4
ASERMON before the Society
เ
pares the one with the other, may find Reaſon
to conclude, That the Conduct of the Almighty
is regulated by the higheſt Wiſdom and Mercy
for the Good of his Creatures; and that if He
had purſued other Meaſures, than fuch as He
has, theſe probably would have been more ab-
ftrufe, leſs the Object of human Enquiry to un-
ravel, than the prefent Syftem of his all-wife
Difpenfations.
He who is infinitely wife and good, cannot
be irregular in his Operations, nor act in an ar-
bitrary Manner, but muft neceffarily proceed in
a Way confiftent with all his glorious Attributes.
Theſe can never be at Variance in the one fimple
Divine Nature, nor the Councils of the Almighty
be otherwiſe, than the Determinations of infi-
nite Power, and Wiſdom, and Goodneſs, in ftrict
Harmony with each other.
$
If theſe be the Meaſures by which God rules
all Things in Heaven and Earth, as he pleaſes;
then nothing hidden and myfterious, in any
Part of his Moral Government, is Cauſe fuffi-
cient for us to doubt, but that whatever He
does, or permits to be done, is equitable and
right. Whether we can fathom the Depth of
the Riches of his Wiſdom; is not material;
whether we can explain the Origin of Moral
Evil, or the Progrefs of Iniquity, from the Fall
of Adam to this Time; or, why Man was not
reſtrained
1
for the Propagation of the Goſpel.
5
1
·
{
}
+
reſtrained from Sin, and placed in a Situation
that he ſhould not tranfgrefs; or, why Sin was
not atoned for as foon as it entered the World,
and the univerfal Redemption of Mankind by
the Death and Paffion of Chrift fooner accom-
pliſhed; or, why the Prophecies concerning him
were not more explicit, and received and under-
ſtood by all Nations; or, why God's Laws were
confined to one People, and the reft of the
World left in Ignorance of his revealed Will;
or, why the Heathens of old, as well as at this
Day, remain without Knowledge of the True
God; or, why the Jews, thro' their Perverſeneſs,
fhould be rejected from his Covenant, and Gen-
tiles and Unbelievers admitted to his Grace and
Favour; all theſe are Queſtions, which in Spe-
culation may amufe, but cannot otherwife be
fatisfactorily folved, than by the Revelation God
has made of his Proceedings with us.
In any
other Manner to delineate the Methods of his
all-wife Providence is beyond the Reach of hu-
man Reafon. Every other Attempt to defcribe
the hidden Operations of infinite Wiſdom is vain
and foolish. Secret Things belong unto the Lord
our God; but thofe Things which are revealed, be-
long unto us and to our Children for ever.
The Knowledge therefore of Man's Nature
and Original, for what Purpoſe he was brought
into the World; how he is to behave in it;
what
1
6
ASERMON before the Society
what Laws are given for his Conduct; and what
is to be the final End of all his Labours, is not to
be fully acquired, but by a conftant Meditation
on the Holy Scriptures. By a faithful Attention
to theſe, the Wiſdom, and Goodness, and Mer-
of God to His Creatures, are viſible in every
Period of Time; and neither few nor Gentile
can have other Objections againſt the Divine
Difpenfations, than fuch as are founded in their
unreaſonable Prejudices.~
cy
W
Nóne were in Covenant with God, till Chrift
came, but the Jews. To them He all along fig-
nified his Intentions of extending his Kingdom
upon Earth; of exercifing an univerfal Domi-
nion over the Hearts of all that would believe
in Him: To them He gave the firſt Offers of
His Grace, to acknowledge His only begotten
*Son to be the Saviour of the World; and to be
His Inſtruments to perfuade others to eſpouſe the
fame Faith. Therefore it was reaſonable, when
they rejected Him, and refuſed to be His Agents
in publiſhing the univerſal Redemption, then
accompliſhed by Chrift, to caft them away, who
had been the Children of his Kingdom. To fuf-
fer them to wander in Error and Delufion, to be
deprived of the Light of His Gofpel, to be ex-
cluded from His Favour, and in their Place to
receive others, that would be more faithful and
obedient to his Will,
This,
1
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7
1
This, our bleffed Lord determined, was right
and juft, when he took Occafion, from the Con-
duct of the Centurion, a Roman Heathen, who
made folemn Profeffions of a Belief in Him, of
So great Faith as was not found in Ifrael, to de-
clare His Good-will and Pleaſure for the Voca-
tion of the Gentiles. And I fay unto you, that
many ſhall come from the East and Weft, and ſhall
fit down with Abraham, and Ifaac, and Jacob, in
the Kingdom of Heaven: That is, many Strangers
out of the Heathen World ſhall come from all
Parts, and join themſelves to the true Church
of God here, and fhall hereafter be received
into the Kingdom of Heaven, as certainly as theſe
Patriarchs mentioned, believed in God in this
Life, and hoped thro' that Faith to enter into
His Glory in the next. In the fame Stile he
had ſpoke long before by the Prophet Iſaiah;
I will bring thy Seed from the East, and gather
thee from the Weft, I will fay to the North give
up, and to the South keep not back, bring my Sons
from far, and my Daughters from the End of the
Earth: That is, after God had made known to
Men the Mystery of his Will, according to his good
Pleaſure, which he had purpoſed in himſelf, He
would gather together in one all Things in Chrift.
Many fhall come from the East and Weft, are
Terms, which denote the large Extent of Chriſt's
Kingdom, that it fhould be propagated thro'
the
8
ASERMON before the Society
*
the whole World, and have the fame Limits
with the Earth. To this Purpoſe ſpeak the
Prophets, That His Dominion fhould be from Sea
to Sea, and from the Flood unto the World's End.
That all Kings fhould fall down before him, and all
Nations do Him Service. That from the Rifing of
the Sun, even unto the Going down of the fame, His
Name fhould be great among the Gentiles.
And that the Progreſs of true Religion has
been fimilar to the Courfe of the Sun from Eaſt
to Weft, is well known. The Place where it
was firſt taught, was Eden, which was Eastward.
Afterwards it continued in Abraham's Family,
fixed its Habitation in Judea, the Land of Ca-
naan, till Chriſt came, and was lifted up from
the Earth to draw all Men unto Him. Then it
fpread among the Eaſtern Nations, flouriſhed in
Greece, where Philofophy and Learning gave
Way to the Foolishness of Preaching. Thence it
paffed to the Romans, who adorned their Royal
Standards with the Crofs of Chrift, and fought
under the Banner of the Lord of Hofts; travelled
on to the Weft thro' Germany, France, and Spain,
to our British Ifles, of old the remote Weftern
Part of the known World. By Diſcoveries fince
made of the Weft-Indies, it still continues its
Journey in the fame Road, whither the Sound
of the Goſpel is already gone; and it is not
to be doubted, but in God's good Time ſhall
have
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
贷
​A
have its Refidence there, and in all other Places,
till it finiſhes its Courſe where it begun. As the
Sun encompaffes and refreſhes the whole World
by its Light and Warmth; fo will the Sun of
Righteousness, before its Courſe be finifh'd, and
the World comes to its End, illuminate and re-
freſh all Places and Regions of the Earth, that
have long fat in Darkness and the Shadow of
Death.
When this will be accompliſhed, we know
no more, than we do, when any other Prophecy,
not yet fulfilled, will receive its Completion.
But what God in His Mercy has already done
towards its Accompliſhment; and how far we
are concerned in carrying on this Work of the
Lord, is worthy of Obfervation.
Our bleffed Lord no fooner eſtabliſhed His Re-
ligion upon its true Foundation, and declared it
to be the Terms of Salvation for all Men, than
he gave His Commands to His Diſciples ; Go ye
into all the World, and preach the Gospel to every
Creature. In Confequence of which Commiffion,
they went forth to publish the Sound of His
Word thro' all the Earth; To make Him manifeft
unto them, that afked not after Him, to many, to
great Multitudes, to all, who would believe in
Him, and in the univerfal Redemption pur-
chafed by His Blood.
B
In
τό
A SERMON before the Society
In this great and glorious Undertaking, mean
and illiterate. Men, countenanced by no civil
Power, dèſtitute of worldly Affiftance as well as
Credit, with little Experience to perfuade, and
leſs Art to influence others, proceed, as they
were fent, to convince Mankind, that Jefus
Chriſt is the Saviour of the World, over all, God
bleſſed for ever.
1
EX
This they began to publiſh not in a dark and
unimproved Age, but when Atrs and Sciences.
flouriſhed; When Men were very able, and as
jealous, left they fhould be impofed upon, as
they have ever been fince, and as tenacious of
national Prejudices, as the Heathens can be at
this Day; and when Jefus Chrift, tho' of the
Houfe and Lineage of David, was defpifed for
the Meannefs of His Birth. Tho' He was the
Lord of Heaven and Earth, yet He ufed no
worldly Power for His Support, but died upon
the Cross in as infamous a Manner as Malice
could invent; Yet, nevertheleſs, thro' the Preach-
ing of His Apoftles, the Word of God prevailed
every where; Three Thousand Souls were con-
verted to believe in Him by one of their Dif
courfes. The true Faith in their Days was re-
ceived by Parthians, Medes, and Elamites, and
Dwellers in far Countries. Agreeable to the
Hiftories of thoſe Times, it was thro' their La-
bours, that the Doctrines of Chrift were carried
into
1
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
II
3'5
into remote Regions, among civilized and polite
Nations, as well as favage and barbarous People,
This appears to be true by the great Number of
Chriftians that were every where met with in
the Age that next followed, when tyrannical
Princes their Perfecutors. ceafed to exerciſe Vio-
lence and Cruelties against them, not out of
Mercy but Policy, left the further Deftruction
of Chriftians fhould vifibly weaken or depopulate
their Countries.
In this expeditious Manner the Word of God
Spread, not by the perfonal Power and Authority
of its Preachers; nor by any Favours they could
beſtow; neither by applying their Doctrines to
gratify the Lufts and Paffions of their Converts
but by ſpeaking the Truths of the Goſpel boldly,
as delivered to them, by requiring all to forfake
Houfes and Lands, Intereft and Pleaſures, and
whatever elſe ſtood in Competition with the
Love of Chrift. By thefe Arguments it was,
contrary to all the known Maxims of human
Policy to gain Followers, that Chrift's Kingdom
increaſed. In fhort, by Meaſures that muft un
doubtedly have ruined any civil State, Chriftianity
profpered and flourished,
The Parables of our bleffed Lord in the Gof
pel intimate this to be the Cafe of His King-
dom, both as to the Smallnefs of its Beginning,
as well as its wonderful Increaſe; Where, it
B 2
}
faida
}
12
ASERMON before the Society
faid, to be like a Grain of Mustard Seed, which a
Man took and caft into his Garden, and it grew,
and waxed to be a great Tree.
And like unto
Leaven, which a Woman took and hid in three
Meafures of Meal till the Whole was leavened. And
like unto a Net, that was caft into the Sea, and
gathered of every Kind. In Conformity to theſe
Emblems it grew, not by the Addrefs of the
Agents employed, for they were no Way equal
to the Work, but by the miraculous Powers
and Graces of the Holy Spirit, with which God
bleſſed their Labours, that His Word ſpread far
and near, and probably at this Day might have
been received thro' all Regions of the Earth; if
Men, thro' their Vices and Follies at different
Seaſons, had not hinder'd its Progrefs. If theſe
had not failed on their Parts, it could ſcarce
have happened, but it would have been every
where diſperſed; -For the common Operations of
God's affifting Grace have all along accompanied
it, and that they do ftill, and will, till this Event
be accompliſhed, no one, who believes the Scrip-
tures, can doubt.
And yet notwithſtanding theſe Affiſtances to
difpofe Men to embrace the Knowledge of Chriſt,
and believe in His Name; it is as true, that His
Doctrines are not univerfally known, as it is cer-
tain, that they were intended for this Purpoſe;
propoſed at firſt, and ſtill conveyed to us in a
fimple
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
fimple Dreſs, void of Ornament and Art to im-
poſe upon the Underſtanding, in plain Precepts,
and intelligible Expreffions, on a Level to all
Capacities. But inſtead of prevailing in all
Places, it is well known that Dominions and
Countries, which cover more than half of the
Globe, are found to be without the Knowledge-
of God, Strangers to His true Worſhip, and
unacquainted with His Laws. Befides, a fenfual
Religion, calculated to gratify corrupt Appetites
and vicious Inclinations, forged by the Impof-
ture and Delufions of Mahomet, and propagated
by the Power of the Sword, appears to be pro-
feſſed thro' vaſt Empires, and many Nations.
If at this Day an exact Survey of the State of
Mankind could be made thro' the whole World
it is to be feared, notwithſtanding all Endeavours
to the contrary, that moral Evil would be found
to have more Followers than moral Good. Ini-
quity and Vice to have more Devotees than Vir-
tue and Goodneſs; and the Advocates for Super-
ftition and Idolatry, and Sin and Error to be
more numerous than the fincere Profeffors of
Chriſtianity. That the State of Truth and Righ-
teouſneſs ſhould be thus circumſtanced, is a Se-
cret in the Hand of God, a Myſtery, that will
be concealed from us, until the Fulness of the
Gentiles be come in to the Kingdom of Chrift. But
when He will perfect this Event, He has not
revealed,
1
14
ASERMON before the Society
1
revealed, no more than He has the laft Day,
when we fhall all appear before His Judgment
Seat..
Thofe Things God does not hide from us,
to intimate, that we have no Concern with them,
but that from the Uncertainty of the Time,
when His Truth fhall prevail over the Face of
the Earth, we may infer the Neceffity we are
under, to be always at work, to fpread the
Light of His Gofpel for the Completion of His
final Purpoſes. Had it been fixed and known,
when this ſhall be brought about, Men would
perhaps have been lefs careful and attentive to
carry on the important Work, than they can
now with the left Shew of Reafon pretend to
be. As our bleffed Lord has made it every
Chriſtian's Duty, and Part of his Daily Prayer,
That His Kingdom may come; That a true Faith
in God, and His Son Jefus Chriſt may be every
where efpouſed, and a pure Worſhip every where
offered up agreeable to His Will; The Chri-
ſtian therefore that regards not, whether the
Bounds of Chrift's Kingdom be enlarged, acts
no confiftent Part with his Petition, which is an
Addreſs to God, that it may be univerſally eſta-
blifhed. For this Purpoſe every one of us is
entruſted with different Talents, of which we are
but Stewards, and must give an Account, how
they are employed, Tho' thefe are not mira
culous
}
#
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
15
culous Powers, and confequently not fo equal
to the Work of converting the Pagan World,
and bringing about a general Reformation of
Sinners, as thofe of the Apoftles were; yet by
them fome Progrefs may doubtleſs be made in
communicating Light to fuch, as fit in Dark-
nefs, till God in His Mercy provides other Means
to perfect this End of His all-wife Difpenfations.
Till this is brought about, it is Religious and
Right, in the beft Manner we can, to proceed
by the Rules of Wiſdom and Prudence, to uſe
all reaſonable Meaſures, to ſow the Seed of His
Word, and plant it with Care both in barren
Land, as well as more fertile Soils, and when
the Harvest is plenteous, and the Labourers few,
to fend forth Labourers into His Harveſt.
Whatever other Employment we may have
in our different Stations for the Diſcharge of
civil and religious Duties at Home, this can be
no Excuſe for our Neglect to advance the Glory
of God, and the Salvation of Men Abroad; if
by any Means we can be of Uſe, to convert
Sinners from the Error of their Ways, and fave
their Souls from Death.
This, for half a Century paſt, under the Coun-
tenance of Princes eminent for their Royal Care
in the Defence of our Holy Faith, has been duly
confider'd by the Society prefent; and if it was
lefs attended to by thoſe, that have gone before
in
1
16
ASERMON before the Society
ก
in the Profeffion of the fame Faith, than by
others of another Communion, the Difficulties,
which intimidated the one, are no longer our
Diſcouragement, nor the Zeal, with which the
others compaſs Sea and Land to make Profelytes,
our Reproach. How Righteous foever the Pre-
tences of the Papifts may be to extend the King-
dom of God, or how great Things they may be
ſuppoſed to have done in this Purfuit, yet with-
out depretiating the Worth of their Labours;
we ſay, I hope with Truth, that what we have
done, whether it be more or leſs in this Work
of the Lord, has been upon righteous Principles,
and honeft Motives; not thro' the Luft of Ava-.
rice and Ambition to conquer Heathens, and
then to uſe Tyranny and Oppreffion, as Argu-
ments to perſuade them, to believe in the true
God; not by the Maffacre and Murder of un-
armed Savages, to teach them to abolish their
barbarous Cuſtoms of human Sacrifices; not by
the Exchange of Pagan Idols for the Images of
Chriſtian Saints, to convey among them due No-
tions of the Satisfaction and Mediation of Chrift;
not laftly by the Mixture of heathenifh Rites
with God's pure Worſhip, to advance the Credit
of the Goſpel.
Theſe Means, we can fcarce conceive, will
ever operate for the Service of true Religion,
unleſs God, who alone is able, by His fupreme
Power
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
4
Power and Authority, brings Good out of Evil,
or permits an imperfect and partial Communica-
tion of his Truths, to prepare an ignorant and
finful World, at laſt to receive them intire. The
Force of Arms may be a proper Argument in
the Hands of Seducers and Deceivers for the
Support of Fraud and Delufion; but placed in
the Hands of Chriftians never was, nor can be
of real Service to the Caufe of true Chriſtianity.
This indeed was firſt planted by the Power of
Miracles, but theſe were never uſed to compel,
only to perfuade Men, to believe in Chrift. And
tho' the Preachers of his Word at this Day have
no Claim to fupernatural Powers, yet in all
other Refpects, Chriſtianity has not leſs, but the
fame Weight for Conviction, as when firſt pub-
liſhed. All its Precepts breathe the fame Spirit
of Love, and Peace, and Charity, they ever did.
All Arguments, to recommend it, retain the
fame Force, they ever had. Human Nature is
the fame in all Climates and in all Ages. Every
Species of Mankind is as docile and tractable
as ever; always ready to learn and improve, as
Opportunity is offered, to make them wiſer and
better. The Indians cannot be excepted, for by
all Accounts they are not void of natural En-
dowments, nor lefs fkilful in low Matters than
common People in other Places. Can we then
doubt, but that by proper Inftructions, they are
capable of making Improvement in every Branch
C
·
of
?
}
18
ASERMON before the Society
of Knowledge; and that the Truth of the Chri-
ftian Religion, when communicated to them,
would be received by them?
If all, who have Opportunity to promote the
Converfion of Heathens, did their Duty faith-
fully, it can ſcarce be imagined, but the impor-
tant Truths of the Goſpel would command their
Regard. Such a Syftem of perfect Laws of
Morality and Goodneſs, as convey juft Notions
of God, and His Son Jeſus Chriſt, and tend only
to eſtabliſh Peace and Harmony among Men,
cannot fail to fink deep into, and make laſting
Impreffions even on hardened Hearts, where
there is any Light of Reaſon to confider them.
Have we not then fufficient Cauſe to hope, if
the Hands of good and wife Men are affiſted,
as they have been, or with more Liberality, to
fupply their prefent urgent Neceffities, in order
to employ others, as they have done, with Pru-
dence and Diſcretion to diſperſe the Truths of
the Gofpel; have we not, I fay, Reaſon to hope,
that by this Means, their Influence will be every
Day more and more Extenfive? And if a com-
petent Knowledge of the Language of Pagans
could be attained by thofe, that are fent to con-
vert them, might we not expect, to fee this
noble Undertaking go on with greater Succefs?
And would the Owners of Slaves, whom they
buy in the ſame Manner, as they do the Beaſts ·
of Burthen, and have a Right to their Labours,
in
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
19
書
​>
in Mercy employ their Influence, to give them
right Notions of Chriſtianity, might we not be
further encouraged with reaſonable Expectations
of ſeeing greater Numbers of them, daily em-
bracing its Doctrines? If theſe Abroad, in their
reſpective Stations, were duly attentive to thoſe
godly Purſuits; and we at Home as careful to
fend to our Colonies Examples of Virtue and
Goodneſs, as we are to tranfport to them the
Dregs of Vice and Iniquity; and all Men every
where were fervent in their Prayers to God; and
as earnest in their Endeavours to enlarge the
Kingdom of Chrift, as this Society is to pro-
ject and execute Meaſures for its Profperity, then
we need not doubt, but Truth and Righteouf,
nefs would flourish, or at least be every where
better known, and more practifed, than they
are at preſent.
Not but that it is to be feared, all, that hu-
man Induſtry can do to accomplish this glorious
Purpoſe, will fall fhort, of what we could with;
nor after all our Wiſdom and Prudence to carry
it on with Succefs, muft we expect to know,
either how, or when, the Kingdoms of this
World fhall become the Kingdom of Christ. But
as he redeemed the whole World, and by the
Tenor of his Gofpel it is manifeft, it is not
calculated for the Benefit of one Nation, but of
all Mankind; then we may naturally confider
it-as the Sun, that ſhines every where, intended
C 2
to
20
A SERMON before the Society, &c.
to enlighten every Man, that cometh into the
World; and we may reaſonably conclude, we
can give no better Proof of our Love to God
and Man, than fincerely to endeavour, that it
be not confined within narrow Bounds, but
every where publiſhed, that by its Brightneſs it
may diſperſe the Mifts of Error, and the Dark-
nefs of Ignorance, from all Córners of the Earth.
Compaffion to Men's Souls by inſtructing
them in the Knowledge of Salvation, is the
higheſt Inſtance we can give of our Gratitude to
God. To be His Agents to extend His Domi-
nion over Infidels, and to bring them into His
Kingdom, is the moſt acceptable. Sacrifice we
can offer up to Him. Nothing that human
Capacities can conceive, or God has been pleaſed
to reveal to us, tends more to His Honour, than
the Advancement of His Kingdom of Grace
here, and of His Kingdom of Glory hereafter.
It is, above all other Concerns, the moſt impor-
tant Buſineſs of our Holy Profeffion.
Therefore, my beloved Brethren, let us be ftedfaft,
unmoveable, always abounding in this Work of the
Lord, forafmuch as we know, that our Labour is
not in Vain in the Lord. And may the glorious
Majefty of the Lord our God profper this our
bandy Work.
An
A
SERMON
*Preached before the.
Incorporated SoCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
<
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Parish Church of ST. MARY-LE-BOW,
?
On FRIDAY February 21, 1755.
By the Right Reverend Father in GOD,
THOMAS Lord Biſhop of NORWICH.
LONDON:
Printed by EDWARD OWEN in Warwick-Lane ;
and fold by A. MILLAR, at Buchanan's Head
in the Strand.
MDCCLV.
4
}
}
At the Anniverfary Meeting of the
Society for the Propagation of the
Goſpel in Foreign Parts, in the Veftry-
Room of St. Mary-le-Bow, on Friday
the 21 Day of February 1755,
A
GREED, That the Thanks of
the SOCIETY be given to the
Right Reverend the Lord Biſhop of
Norwich, for his Sermon preached this
Day before the SOCIETY, and that
his Lordſhip be defired to deliver a Copy
of the fame to the SOCIETY to be
Printed.
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary.
1
{
+
]
t
REV. Chap. xiv. Ver. 6, 7.
·And I faw another angel fly in the midſt
of beaven, having the everlasting gofpel
to preach unto them that dwell on the
earth, and to every nation, and kin-
dred, and tongue, and people,
Saying with a loud voice, Fear God,
and give glory to him; for the hour
of his judgment is come.
HEN the glorious appearance
here recorded was revealed to
Saint John, the church of Chriſt
was diftreffed by a ſharp per-
fecution, and Saint John him-
felf was in a folitary ſtate of
baniſhment for the word of God, and for the teſ
timony of Jefus Chrift. Amidſt this gloomy
A 2
.fcene
3
4
ASERMON before the Society
fcene of affliction, the beloved evangelift, ha-
ving the eyes of his mind opened, by a divine
illumination, was enabled to diſcern the agency
of thoſe miniftring fpirits, who are faid in fcrip-
ture, to be fent forth to minifter unto the heirs of
Salvation. And to comfort him, and all who
fucceffively believe in Chrift, to the end of the
world, with a fenfible demonftration, that the
providence of God is employed in promoting
the fuccefs of the gofpel; the veil, which con-
ceals from us the fpiritual hidden working of
that over-ruling power, by which God admi-
nifters the moral government of the world, was
drawn afide, and the heavenly vifron, deſcribed.
in the text, was made to pafs before him. An
angel fhewed himself flying in the midst of
heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto
'them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation
and kindred and tongue and people, faying with a
loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to Him; for
the hour of His judgment is come..
•
What Saint John thus faw and heard, doth,
in the moſt awful manner, illuftrate the divine
authority of the gofpel, which is otherwiſe efta-
bliſhed by a juſt and full weight of evidence,.
And notwithſtanding we cannot preciſely fix,
what that hour of judgment was, which the
angel with a loud voice proclaimed to be come,
and tho' we have not circumftances enough be-
fore
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
5
fore us to determine how, and upon whom, the
judgment was to be executed, this prophetic
viſion may with propriety be underſtood of any
extraordinary event, which we cannot but afcribe
to God, as the fupreme protector of the gofpel,
when the event itſelf cannot be accounted for,.
and could not have been effected, without an
extraordinary interpofition of Providence. Per-
haps the angel's flying in the midst of heaven,
and having the everlasting goſpel to preach unto
them that dwell on the earth, and to every
nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,
might allude to that aſtoniſhing progrefs, which
the gofpel made at its first fetting out, and to
the miraculous powers, with which the firſt
preachers of it were invefted: For Saint Paul
affirms, that their found went forth into all the
earth, and their words unto the ends of the
world. Or, as the deftruction of Jerufalem did, in
a natural way, give a freer courfe to the gofpel,,
by weakening and difperfing its moſt inveterate
enemies, may we not with probability fuppofe
the judgment, which then hung over that de-
voted city, and was executed upon it, with all
the terrible circumstances of divine vengeance,
to be referred to, in this declaration of the angel,
the hour of judgment is come? The folemn warn-
ing, which uſhers in this declaration, is, with-
out doubt, peculiarly appofite to that judgment,
which
6
ASERMON before the Society
1
which verified the prophecy uttered by the Son
of God, with ſo dreadful an exactneſs; and m
the accompliſhment of which the power and
juſtice of God were fo fignally manifefted. Or
daftly: As the most remote events of futurity
are fpoken of in the language of 'prophecy, as
if they had already happened, to denote the
certainty of their coming to pafs at the appoint-
ed ſeaſon, this inftructive prophetic viſion might
'be defigned to carry on our thoughts, to that
great fullness of time, when the Jews hall,
with one heart and one mind, acknowledge and
adore the Redeemer of Ifrael, and of the world;
´and all nations, kindreds and languages, fhall
receive and obey the everlafting goſpel, in righ-
teouſneſs and true holinefs.
Now all thefe conjectural interpretations of
the text have this common foundation, and
agree in this conclufion, that the gospel, being
the word and work of God, muft and will at
laſt prevail over all the united powers of darkneſs.
This demands a deep and ſerious attention, from
every one, who names the name of Chrift. For
whatever that judgment was, which the angel
denounced fo loudly, in his paffage thro' the
midſt of heaven, the judgment which will be
paffed upon each of us, as we obey or difobey
the gofpel, cannot be far off, and may be nigh,
éven at our doors.
That
น
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7
That our attention therefore to a truth, of
fuch infinite importance to our happineſs, may
have a fuitable effect upon our practice, I ſhall
firft, in a fhort, general view of the plan of
chriſtianity, confider it, as fitted and defigned
by God to be the univerfal religion of the world:
for this general view will be fufficient to con-
vince us, that the profeffors of fuch a religion
are strictly and formally obliged to embrace
every opportunity of fpreading the knowledge
and influence of the goſpel; and it will at the
fame time inform us, how we may moft ef-
fectually discharge this branch of Chriſtian duty.
There is ſcarce any part or circumſtance of
Chriſtianity, which does not plainly recommend
the gofpel to us, by fome evident mark of a
divine interpofition. The moral internal excel-
lence of this religion, confidered as a compleat
practical rule of life and manners, familiarly
adapted to the wants, the weakneffes, and dif-
ferent capacities of all mankind, furniſhing us
with helps, which God alone could confer,, and
enforced by fanctions, which God alone could
annex to it, obliges us to acknowledge that the
teacher of ſuch a religion was fent from God:
The prophefies he fulfilled, the miracles. he
wrought, will each of them warrant us to draw
the fame conclufion; and the miracle of his re-
furrection
8
ASERMON before the Society
furrection from the dead, is of itſelf a decifive
demonſtration of his divinity.
But it is the general adjuſtment and corre
fpondence of all the parts of the chriſtian plan
of redemption, and their perfect fubferviency to
the whole defign, that form it into a ſcheme of
providence fettled by the wiſdom, and carried
into effect by the power of God; for no wif-
dom or power leſs than His, could have brought
on, in a regular fucceffion, the feveral events,
by which the work of our redemption was com-
pleated, or have linked them together by fo
firm a chain, that all thoſe convulfive ſhocks,
which in a long feries of ages, have broken in
pieces the kingdoms and empires of the world
one after another, have not been able to diffolve
or weaken this pre-eſtabliſhed order and union.
Let us then briefly trace this wonderful Con-
nection, as exemplified in the hiftory of our re-
deemer.
God himſelf, who knew how much mankind
would want to be delivered, by an extraordinary
aid, from the confequences of their wilful dif
obedience to him, of his own infinite goodneſs
provided a redeemer for them, in that divine
perfon, who is ſtiled in fcripture the only begot-
ten Son of God. Man no fooner fell, than he
was comforted with the promife of this re-
$
deemer,
}
for the Propagation of the Gospel..
9
deemer. That he, who was thus to be the de-
fire and hope of nations, might be uſhered in
with a general expectation of his coming, and
that he might be known when he came, it was,
neceffary, that he fhould be described 'before-
hand; and, in a cafe of fuch infinite moment,
it was morcover neceffary, that the defcription of
him fhould be fo minute, as to detect and ex-.
clude all falſe pretenders. Now unleſs ſome
one particular people had been chofen, amongſt
whom the redeemer; when he affumed the na-
ture of thoſe, whom he was to redeem, might
be born according to the flesh, humanly ſpeak-
ing, none of the purpoſes, I have been mention-
ing could have been provided for. Accordingly
the Jews were chofen by God, who is no respecter
of perfons, for a purpoſe, by which the whole
world was to be benefited; and for this purpoſe,
they were formed into a peculiar kind of go-
vernment, adapted to the end for which it was
erected. The Mofaic difpenfation, thus ac-
counted for, becomes an evidence of that mercy
of God, which is equally extended over all his
works. Under this difpenfation, prophets were
inſpired by God, to foretell the deſtined deli-
verer, and they deſcribed him with ſtill more
and more circumstances, applicable to the true
Meffiah only, as the time of his appearance
drew nearer.
B
}
1
That
ΙΟ
ASERMON before the Society
1
*
That the chofen people, who were entruſted
with the cuftody of this facred-evidence, might
preſerve it with a religious fidelity, the deliverer
of the world was characterized as the redeemer of
Ifrael, but at the fame time this character was
ſet forth in fuch a pomp of language, as could
in its higheſt and trueft fenfe be understood only
of the promiſed king of righteoufnefs; and, in-
deed, righteouſneſs being the only fure foundation
of everlaſting dominion, what could be more
exactly expreffive of him, who was to introduce
everlaſting righteoufnéfs, than to reprefent him
as cloathed with the Majefty of an earthly con-
queror? Men are apt to interpret every thing, fo
far as there is room, in their own favour: And
thus the Jews, as God forefaw and intended,
interpreted away the Meffiah, by finking fo glo-
rious a character into a conqueror, who was to
do no more than raife up Jacob, and restore the
preferved of Ifrael. Upon this fecret hinge of
providence, the fcheme of univerfal fpiritual re-
demption from fin and death, was directed to
turn; and in the natural operation of things,
thoſe who knew not what they did, by the in-
ſtigation of their own blind rage, became the vo-
luntary inftruments of carrying this ſcheme of
mercy into effect. Who hath known the mind of
the Lord, or Who hath been his counsellor ? How
unfearch-
A
t
་
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
II
unfearchable are his judgments, and his ways paft
finding out!
*
¿
But to proceed, When the expected Meffiah
came into the world, not with the majeſty of a
prince, but in the form of a fervant, the world
knew him not, and his own, to whom he came, re-
ceived him not. And by this very means, he
fulfilled all that the prophets had foretold con-
cerning him, with lefs difficulty and inter-
ruption.
In the courſe of his miniſtry, he made good
his claim to a divine miffion, by reſtoring eyes
to the blind, feet to the lame, and life to the
dead And theſe and other miracles being
done publickly, and in the fight of all the peo-
ple, the reality of them was as manifeft, as the
power, by which alone they could be wrought.
His inftructions were all occafionally deli-
vered, either to his difciples, or to the multi-
tudes, that every where follow'd him, in the
plaineſt and moſft familiar manner, but they
were delivered by him, in the ſtyle of one having
authority.
The love of God and of our brother, (all
mankind being confidered as brethren) and for-
giveneſs of injuries, prefcribed as a teſt of bro-
therly love, were the principles, into which he
reſolved the whole extent of our duty, and upon
which he explained it, with a declaration that-
B 2
God
*
12
A SERMON before the Society..
God had appointed a day for a general judgment
of quick and dead; in which everlafting happi-
neſs or mifery would be allotted to every man
according to his works done in this life.
1
4
Until this part of his commiffion from God
was finiſhed, no man laid hands on him: But
no fooner had he done all that the Father had
given him to do, in this branch of his miniftry,
than the hour of darkneſs came on, and the
power of darkneſs was fet at liberty to fulfill the
further purpoſes of heaven. Accordingly the
rulers now fearing, left, if he was let alone
any longer, the world would run after him, they
hired one of his own Diſciples, chofen and fet
apart by the foreknowledge of God for this very
work, to betray and deliver up his mafter into
their hands. He was then arraigned before a
Roman governor, declared to be without fault,
and yet condemned by the unjust judge, whilſt
the Jews, with one voice, demanded him to be
crucified, and by a judicial blindneſs imprecated
upon themfelves, and upon their children, the
blood of this juſt man.
But the rulers, who faw him expire upon the
crofs, ſeeing alfo thofe convulfions of nature,
which attended his crucifixion, began to be
alarmed with an apprehenfion, left that ſhould
happen, which they now remembered: he had
faid, whilſt he was yet alive, that he would rife
again
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
}
again from the dead the third day. This put
them upon taking fuch precautions, as made it
impoffible for the difciples to fteal the dead body
of their mafter, and eventually ferved to demon-
ftrate, by a more glaring light of evidence, that
it was raiſed to life by the power of God.
+
Chrift being thus rifen, continued for forty
days to converfe as familiarly, as before, with
his difciples, fpeaking unto them the things
pertaining to the kingdom of God, and opening
their understanding, that they might underſtand
the feripture.
A
In his laft folemn intercourfe with them, he
declared openly to them, that all power was given
him from on high: He then commiffioned them
to teach and baptize all nations, and preach the
gospel to every creature; enduing them at the
fame time, with the power of working mi-
racles, to confirm the word they preached.
All the work, that the father had given him to
do upon earth, being now finiſhed, he was ſud-
denly taken from them, and a cloud received
bim out of their fight.
C
If then the word of propheey had been to
tally filent upon this head, and God had not
declared to us his future purpofe of making the
kingdoms of the world the kingdoms of his Chriſt,
ſtill we might have inferred from the internal
frame and moralixtellende of: Christianity, and
from
14
A SERMON before the Society
•
from the miraculous circumstances that attended
its promulgation, that this religion was fitted
and defigned by God, to be the univerfal reli-
gion of the world. For is mutual good-will lefs
proper to be inculcated in one part of the world,
than in another? Is there any nation under heaven,
where there is no neceffity of exhorting men to
forgive injuries, and of warning them againft
that hatred, with which the generality of man-
kind purſue their enemies? Can purity of heart
and manners be an unfeaſonable doctrine to any
of our fellow-creatures, who have like paffions
with ourſelves, and many of them fewer prin-
ciples of knowledge and virtue to direct them?
Further can we even fuppofe, without a mani-
feft abfurdity, that the Son of God came down
from heaven, expired upon the croſs, and rofe
again from the dead, for any thing less than the
whole body of mankind? ors that he brought
life and immortality to light by his gofpel, and
declared a general judgment of quick and dead,
without defigning, that all who are by nature
immortal, fhould be made acquainted with their
privilege,, and be apprized of that great tribunal,
before which they will all be one day fum-
moned?
4
But instead of dwelling upon a point fo in
conteſtably clear, I fhall proceed to enforce the
confequence, that follows from it; for in this
confequence
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
confequence we are all concerned, tho' moſt of
us are too apt to overlook it, viz. that the will
of God, in this reſpect, being ſo plainly made
known to us, we are formally and ſtrictly obli-
ged, to embrace every opportunity, of ſpreading
the knowledge and influence of the goſpel.
*
}
To illuftrate the ground and force of this
obligation, by a fimilar inftance; Let us fup-
pofe an infallible remedy againſt an epidemical
diſeaſe, from which no part of the world is at
any time abfolutely free, and by which fome
parts are at different times almoft depopulated;
let us fuppofe, I fay, fuch a remedy to be fpe-
cially revealed to any fingle perfon, with a plain
intimation, that tho' he was firft in the poffef-
fion of the diſcovery for his own ufe, yet that
it was imparted to him for the prefervation of
all, to whom he had an opportunity of com-
municating the benefit: Suppoſe further, that,
notwithſtanding this intimation, and his being
thus truſted with the means of reftoring health
and ſtrength to thoufands," he fhould either hide
the falutary medicine, without making any uſe
of it at all, or only apply it to the recovery of
thoſe, who happened to be nearly connected
with him, by relation, neighbourhood, or friend-
ſhip, when it was actually in his power, with-
out any difficulty or inconvenience to himſelf,
to communicate the cure to multitudes, who
+
lay
1.6.
A SERMON before the Society
lay at a remote diſtance from him; Would it,
not be a juft and fuitable punishment to deprive,
him of the benefit of his own infallible remedy
when it was most wanted by himself?
Now God, in the gafpel, hath revealed to us,
the only remedy, that can deliver us from thofe
univerſal diſeaſes, to which all who partake of
human nature, are alike fubject. Here the pas
ture of the remedy itſelf. fhews, us, that God de-
figned the cure to be as extenfive, as the cafe
against which it is provided. The will of God
thus made known to us, lays us under a ſtrict
and formal obligation, to embrace every appor-
tunity of fpreading the benefit of that know-
ledge, which inftructs us, what we are to do.
in order to obtain everlaſting life.
+
'
*
What is it then, that this obligation calls upon
us to do? Is it any thing more, than to imitate
that divine goodneſs, by which we ourſelves are
faved; and to ſecure our own eternal happineſs
more effectually, by informing others of the
fure means of obtaining it? Is it any thing more,::
than what the natural fuggeftions of a benever
lent mind prompt, us to perform, and the pleas
fure, that ſprings from the performance, imme-
diately rewards? Is there any juſt ground. to
complain of our being obliged to do this, or
any colour of excufe, for not doing it? Is it ano
unreafonable burdenfome talk, to refresh with:
the
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
the day-Spring from on high those who fit in dark-
nefs and the Phadow of death, and, by adminiftring
this comfort, to guide their feet into the ways of
peace ? Is it a mean employment to be fellow:
workers with God, in forwarding the gracious
purpoſes of infinite mercy? God, without doubt,
could diffuſe the light of the goſpel over thei
face of the whole earth, with the fame ſwift-
nefs, that light itſelf is propagated. But we
fhould reflect, that if our endeavours to ſpread
it, by the uſe of thofe means and opportunities,
which he affords for that purpoſe, were no more
required than they are really wanted, we fhould
be deprived of one of the moſt effectual ways
of working out our own falvation.
+
M
The inftitution of fuch a fociety as this, is a.
providential enlargement of every man's ability
to forward this good work; it brings thofe who
live without Chrift, and without God in the
world, feparated from us by an almoſt bound-
leſs ocean, within the reach of our affiftance
and it is a providential call upon us, to aſſiſt
them, by encreaſing that fund of Chriſtian cha-
rity, by which they are ſupplied with inſtructors.
Indeed all the means and opportunities of
doing good, are ſo many tefts of our fincerity,
and trials of our zeal in the cauſe of truth; and,
they are vouchſafed in various degrees, and un-
der different appearances to all men. Thofe,
A
C
who
Y
18.
A SERMON before the Society
:
who by defignation and office, are ordain'd to
labour in the word and doctrine of Chrift, have
a folemn woe denounced
preach not the gofpel
against them, if they
and, tho all are not
preachers, all men may, and, therefore ought,
in fome degree, to promote its fuccefs and
influence. The pooreft man may in his life
adorn, and fo far recommend the doctrine
of the gofpel; and the great and the pow-
erful may render their greatnefs and power more
illuftrious and more beloved, by employing both
in the fervice of God and of his Chrift. Riches,
fanctified by this application of them, become
treaſures in heaven; and royalty itfelf, exalted
by this fervice, is entitled to a never fading crown
of glory.
The obligations. I have been urging, and the
defign of this anniverſary meeting, now lead
me to take particular notice of one cafe. It is
indeed a very extenfive and important one, for it
expreffes a total inattention to thefe folemn obli-
gations, and gives a juft concern to all true
Chriftians, by occafioning the name of Chrift
to be evil fpoken of.
The proprietors of flaves in our American fet-
tlements, thoſe of them I mean from whom the
offence cometh, must be prefumed to act upon
fome fuch reafoning as this that their flaves
are their property by right of purchaſe, and as
they
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
19
they were purchaſed, that their bodies might be
employed in the ſervice of their purchaſers, they
have no concern with their fouls, and therefore
are not obliged to take any care of them.
This is a plea, of which no human court of
judicature can take cognizance; but the evange-
lical law of kindneſs, hath, in the cleareft and
ftròngeft terms decided upon it, that it is an
excufe, which will heighten our condemnation.
The immortal part of us is a property, which
we cannot transfer to another; it hath but one
mafter, that is God; it is fubject to no flavery,
but that of fin, and to redeem it from that fla-
very, the fon of God himſelf paid the price of
its redemption. In this the flave, whom we
buy in the market, hath as much a fhare, as
the purchaſers, however we may treat him like
one of the beaſts, that perifh at death and are
no more.
Is it confiftent with a law of kindneſs, to
make ſo harſh a ùfe of an external difference in
rank or fortune, which can laft but for a few
years, and which God, in making one man to
differ from another in the preſent life, appointed
for far other purpoſes.
The difference is now in our favour; let our
flaves reap that benefit from it, which God in-
tended they ſhould reap; if they do not, the
difference
C 2
20
A SERMON before the Society
1
difference will be fatally inverted hereafter, when
they ſhall be comforted, and we tormented.
To guard againſt a change, which when it
once takes place will laft for ever, let us admi-
niſter to them the comfort of knowing, what
good things God hath laid up in ftore for them,
if they act a right part, in that trying ftate of
labour, in which God hath placed them under
us. By thus alleviating their hard lot, and ren-
dering it more eafy and fupportable to them, we
fhall gain an advantage to ourſelves: for it is
the natural effect of fuch inftruction, to turn
the eye-ſervice of flaves, into the confcientious
diligence of fervants. If we are not fufficiently
actuated by the ſpirit of the gofpel, to be in-
fluenced by motives of humanity, let prudential
reaſons incline us to adminifter this chriftian
confolation to our fellow creatures, who are fo
ftrictly our property, and fo abfolutely in our
power, that no one elfe can take upon him to
help them, without our leave and direction.
For by this means a branch of commerce, which
carries with it a reflection upon human nature,
and is founded upon the mifery and wretched-
nefs of a large part of mankind, will become
fubfervient to the purpoſes, of benevolence and
the cauſe of religion, from which it will derive
the bleffings of providence in return.
The
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
21
43
The flaves themſelves, if they make a right
ufe of the ineftimable benefit conferred upon
them, may, in a future world, be admitted into
the glorious liberty of the Jons of God. Their
owners will be honoured, as benefactors to chrif-
tianity and the more they flourish and abound
in riches, the more they will rife, in a true and
lafting dignity of character: for what character
is equal to that of being in favour with God and
man ?.
I ſhall conclude with applying that hiſtorical
view of the plan of chriftianity, which I have
traced out, to the ufes of doctrine, exhortation,
and instruction in righteouſneſs.
First then, we plainly fee, from a narrative of
events, and from the order in which they fo
regularly introduced and followed each other,
that the Mofaic law was a neceflary ftep in this
great ſcheme of providence, to bring us to
Chriſt. Chrift being the end for which only
that law was given, confequently the Jewish
difpenfation is, in ftrictness and propriety, no-
thing more, than that imperfect preparatory part
which preſents to us the rudiments and faint
out-lines of the goſpel.
From the fame premiffes, we may fix and
afcertain the peculiar character, and, if I may
fo ſpeak, the precife genius of the gofpel. It
certainly is not (what the refinements and fpecu-
lations
22
A SERMON before the Society
lations of men have almoſt made it to be thought)
a ſyſtem of myſterious abftruſe reafoning upon
things, that are too high for us, but a practical:
ſcheme of faith and duty founded upon facts,
which could not have been known at all by us
but from revelation; and enforced by fanctions
which could not be fully known and eſtabliſhed,
but by an expreſs declaration of the will of God.
concerning them. From fuch a ſcheme of
faith and duty as this, ariſe thoſe plain rules of
life and manners, familiarly delivered and laid
down to us in the hiftory of what was done,
and taught, and fuffered by our divine all-fuffi-
cient Redeemer, the only-begotten Son of God.
The goſpel therefore is what St. John ftiles it in
the text, an everlasting or unalterable gofpel.
Nothing can be added to or taken from it: be-
cauſe nothing, as a condition of falvation can
be added to or taken from what was taught and
done, and fuffered by Chriſt, the captain of our
falvation, and at once the author and finisher of
our faith. If an angel from heaven fhould preach
another goſpel than this, we are authorized by
St. Paul to pronounce him accurfed.
In this inftructive form of fimplicity, the
gofpel was first delivered by Chrift himſelf, and
explained by his apoftles afterwards. They'
were inftant in exhorting men to think chiefly
of thoſe things, which tend to make us holy in
all
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
23
all manner of converſation and godliness, tender-
hearted, forgiving one another, as God for Chrift's
fake bath forgiven us. Theſe things they ex-
horted and taught, and what they taught they
practiſed.
In the fame form of fimplicity, with a like
purity and innocence of life, if there be any virtue,
if there be any praife in following the example of
Chriſt and his apoftles, it ought to be taught
and explained by all, who are folemnly fet apart
to be minifters and preachers of the goſpel. By
fo doing they will be not only blameless, and:
without rebuke, giving no occafion to thofe, who
feek occafion to traduce their character and
office, but they will in general be thought wor-
thy of all acceptation, and be thankfully at-
tended to, with a ready and willing mind. Their
feet will be beautiful upon the mountains, where
no voice of a prophet was ever heard, and where
no mighty figns and wonders were ever wrought,
or would probably be underſtood, except thoſe
conſtant ones of nature and of providence, which
are difplayed in the fight of all men, and by
which the invifible things of God, his eternak
power and wiſdom are clearly feen. Even here:
the goſpel fo taught and practifed, might, by
the bleffing of God, make a deep impreffion
upon the heart of favages, as perfectly coin-
ciding
::.
24
A SERMON before the Society
*
ciding with that law, which God hath written
in the hearts of all men.
ས
+
Further, as the whole frame and conſtitution
of chriftianity, together with the external proofs
that give it the fanction of a divine authority,
enable. us to conclude, that God defigned this
religion to be the univerfal religion of the world;
we may be certain, that what God hath defign-
ed, he will alſo accompliſh. The times and
feafons, which God keeps in his own power,
- and which he hath not revealed to us, no man
knoweth, and therefore about theſe no man
ought to enquire, or reafon. And left from our
narrow views, we ſhould count God to be flack
concerning bis promife, let us reflect, that this
whole ſcheme of mercy hath, from the begin-
ning, been carried on, not by the exertion of
almighty power, but by the filent fecret work-
ing of that wiſdom, which reacheth from the
beginning to the end, and gradually difpofeth
all things to work together for the accompliſh-
ment of its own eternal purpoſes.
We learn from the gofpel, that our Saviour
omitted to ſay many things to his diſciples at a
time when he knew they could not bear them.
The caſe may be the fame with nations. There
may be many previous preparations of know-
ledge neceffary to fit them for the propofal or
"
reception
2
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
25
reception of the gofpel; and unleſs we were
more intimately acquainted than we are, or
perhaps ever ſhall be, with the ſtate and circum-
ſtances of the world, it is rafh and impious to
ground a cenfure of the wiſdom or goodneſs of
the fupreme ruler, upon a mere difficulty arifing
from our own ignorance.
One thing, of which hiſtory informs us, more
properly demands our attention.
From many
countries, where the light of the goſpel once
fhone with the brighteft and pureft luftre, it
hath been withdrawn for the wickedness of them
that dwelt therein. This affords us a folemn
inftructive warning. For, if we imitate them
in their conduct, we fhall, fooner or later, refem-
ble them in their puniſhment. The meaſures
of providence are uniform: that they are thus
uniform, the courfe of nature itſelf fhews us;
for what is this courfe of nature, by which men
perverfely and weakly affect to exclude God out
of all their thoughts, other than the ftated ope-
ration of cauſes and effects, by which the God,
of nature. exercifes his providence over us; and
heaven and earth, in obedience to his word,
labour without ceafing to fulfill his will.
We may revile or defeat the bleffings which
God beſtows upon us, by a wilful abufe of
them; but we cannot escape his judgments,
which eventually ſpring out of the very wicked-
D
nefs
>
26
A SERMON before the Society, &c.
1
**
neſs that is puniſhed by them: for the fame
profligacy of manners, which makes us hate the
light of the gofpel, becaufe by that heavenly-
light our evil deeds are made manifeſt and re-
proved, draws after it, in the natural order of .
things, the deftruction due and threatened to
thoſe who neglect fo great falvation.
It is a dreadful thing, thus to fall into the hands
of the living God, by being abandoned to the in-
evitable fruits and effects of our own doings.
Deſpiſers of the law of Chrift are defcribed by
St. Paul, as crucifying the Son of God afresh, and
putting him to an open shame. The fore judg-
ment of which thefe defpifers fhall be thought
worthy, is ſo incomprehenfibly terrible, that the
apoſtle leaves it to our own reflection, without
declaring it. Let us not then be high-minded, be-
cauſe this judgment hath not yet overtaken us.
The night cometh, when no man can work; while
it is yet day, let every one of us work out his
cwn falvation with fear and trembling. And if
we give glory to God, by believing and prac-
tifing the truth as it is in Chriſt Jeſus; if we
zealouſly ſtrive, that his way may be known
upon earth, his faving health among all nations,
we fhall have no reafon to fear, even when the
hour of his judgment is come.
An
f
'A
SERMON
Preached before the
}
Incorporated SoCIETY
FOR THE.
Propagation of the Gofpel in
Foreign Parts;
ATTHEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Parish Church of ST. MARY-LE-Bow,
On FRIDAY February 20, 1756.
By the Right Reverend Father in GOD,
FREDERICK Lord Biſhop of
LICHFIELD and COVENTRY.
LONDON:
Printed by EDWARD OWEN in Warwick-Lane;
and fold by A. MILLAR, at Buchanan's Head
in the Strand. MDCCLVI.
}
t
}
****
+
*
At the Anniversary Meeting of the
Society for the Propagation of the
Goſpel in Foreign Parts, in the Veftry-
Room of St. Mary-le-Bow, on Friday
the 20th Day of February 1756,
A
GREED, That the Thanks of
the SOCIETY be given to the
Right Reverend the Lord Bishop of
Lichfield and Coventry, for his Sermon
preached this Day before the SOCIETY,
and that his Lordship be defired to de-
liver a Copy of the fame to the SOCIETY
to be Printed.
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary.
(
?
}
&
}
!
}
H
3
ACTS xxvi. 18.
To open their Eyes, and to turn them
from Darkness to Light, and from the
Power of Satan unto God, that they
may receive Forgiveness of Sins, and
Inheritance among them which are
fanctified by Faith.
•
HESE Words are Part of the
Defence which St. Paul made
for himſelf before King Agrip-
pa, and Feftus the Roman Go-
vernor. The former had been
bred up in the Principles of
the Jewish Religion, and as the Life, and Death,
and Doctrines, and Refurrection of Chrift, were
Confiderations of Importance, and Matters of
Notoriety; it is not to be fuppofed but he muſt
A.2
have
}
4
ASERMON before the Society
•
have heard many Reports concerning them, and
was not difpleafed with an Opportunity of having-
a full and diftinct Account of a Sect, that, tho
it was every where fpoken of, yet in General
met but with a fmall Degree of Countenance
and Approbation; and efpecially from a Perfon
of fo Remarkable a Character as St. Paul was.
Who was then under Profecution for defending
a Caufe, which, with all the Zeal, and violence
of Temper, he had taken great Pains to eradi-
cate and ſuppreſs. And we may Obferve here
too, that the Careleſs and the Profligate undergo
their Returns of ferious Intervals, and have
fometimes a ftrong Defire, tho' of no long con-
tinuance, to hear the Doctrines of Righteousness,
Temperance and Juftice, explained and diſcourſed
of. Feftus had a generous Principle for defiring
to hear what St. Paul had to fay for himſelf.
He wanted farther Information in Relation to a
Matter of a curious Nature; and however preff-
ed he might be by the Jews to give Sentence of
Condemnation against St. Paul, yet he could not
think of acting fo unjuft a Part; nor of fending
a Priſoner to be tried by Cæfar, without fignify-
ing the Crimes and Complaints that were alledg-
ed against him.
St. Paul begins with letting them know that
he thought himſelf particularly fortunate in
having
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
5
having an Opportunity of juftifying himſelf be-
fore a Perfon, fo well verfed as Agrippa was, in
all the Cuſtoms and Queftions that were in
Debate among the Jews. His Manner of Life
from his Childhood, and his Attachment to the
ſtrictest Sect of the Jewish Religion, he tells them,
were well known to all his Accufers. He had
been guilty of no Crime, unless it was deem'd
a Crime to hope for the Promiſes that were
made to the Fathers. He had been as averfe to
Chriſtianity as any of them could be, and the
Commiffion that had been granted him to har-
rafs and perfecute the Followers of Chrift, was
an ample Proof of that Averfion: But that he
had good Reaſon then to change his Opinion,
and to fupport that Cauſe which he had en-
deavoured to overthrow. For in going to exe-
cute the Commiffion which he had received, he
had been, by a kind Interpofition of Providence,
made fenfible of his Errors. That he was ap-
pointed to be a Miniſter of the Word, and a
Witneſs of the extraordinary Event that had be-
fallen him: That an affurance was given him of
being delivered from the Malice of the Jews,
with whom for the Future he was to have little
Concern, for his Departinent was chiefly to be
among the Gentiles, and the Aliens of the Com-
monwealth of Ifrael; " To open their Eyes and
to
6
A SERMON before the Society
1
Mark xvi.
15.
to turn them from Darkness to Light, and from
the Power of Satan unto God, that they may re-
ceive Forgiveness of Sins, and Inheritance among
them which are fanctified by Faith."
In proceeding farther on which Words, I ſhall
obferve in the firft Place,
#
That it was the Defign of Providence that the
Gofpel fhould be preached to all People.
'ነ
Go into all the World (faid our Saviour unto
his Diſciples) and preach the Gospel to every Crea-
turè. Go and teach, or make Profelytes, in all
xxviii. 19. Nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Fa-
ther, Son, and Holy Ghoft.
Matthew
Theſe were fome of his laft Injunctions; and
tho' little fuited to the Prejudices of the Apoſtles,
and the vain Opinions they might then entertain,
about confining the Privileges of the Meffiab to
themſelves; yet they made deep Impreffions up-
on their Minds, and, were religiously obferved
by them, at the Expence of their Eaſe, and all
their worldly Satisfactions. But however labo-
rious their Miffion might feem to them; what-
ever Difficulties they migh have to encounter;
yet there was nothing to be apprehended by
them of any Unfuitableness in their Doctrine,
to the Nature of any People, or any Country.
For there was no Defign in it to make any Alte-
rations in the Civil Inftitutions of any Govern-
'
40
ment.
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
7
1
3
ment.
What was propoſed by it, was to change
and amend the Man by rectifying his Judgment
and informing his Underſtanding: But far were
they from having any Intimation from their
Maſter of any Power to cauſe any Innovation in
Government, or to unfettle the Laws of the
People they were to preach to. On the contrary,
whoever embraced their Doctrine were to render
to Cæfar the Things that were Cafar's, and to
pay Obedience to the Powers that were eſtabliſh-
ed in the World. And to fatisfy thoſe that
were Inveſted with Authority, that their Doc-
trines were not only Innocent, but might be ufe-
ful to them, they fet Obedience upon a Footing
it was unacquainted with before, and inftructed
Men to be good Subjects from a Principle of
Conſcience. And therefore no Governor, what-
ever Mode of Government he might be poffeffed
of, could make any Objections to Chriſtianity,
upon Account of its containing any Thing that
was unfuitable to the Civil Inftitutions. And
every Governor might certainly have been a
Gainen by it, provided it had the Effect it pro-
pofed, in encouraging Fidelity and Obedience.
And therefore, whether the Apoftles went to the
Regions of Arbitrary Government, or were under
the milder: Influences of limited Power; in the
former Situation, the Principles of their Reli-
+
gion
;
8
A SERMON before the Society
gion would not lead their Followers into Faction:
and Sedition And in the latter, would difpofe:
them to thank God for their particular Advan
tages, and encourage them to fupport thofe Laws
and Conſtitutions upon which their Liberty de-
pended.
And therefore Chriſtianity was to be extenſive
by its Nature and Genius. And the Apoſtles
Compliance with our Saviour's Injunctions, to go
and preach it to all Nations, was nothing elſe
but a Compliance with every generous Principle
of human Nature. No wife Man would light
a Candle and put it under a Buſhel, and no be-
novolent Man would be for concealing a Doc-
trine that is exactly calculated for the univerfal
Service of Mankind.
{
Our Saviour compares his Doctrine to a
Treaſure: And fuch it certainly is to all who
find and diligently obey it. But there is this
Peculiarity in it, that the more it is communi-
cated to others, the more Enjoyment we have
from it ourſelves. Its good Effects return upon
us, in Proportion as it is more plentifully impart-
ed to others; and our Satisfactions are increaſed
by conveying it to other People.
The Jewish Religion was neceffary to be con-
fined within narrow Bounds, and a ſmall Terri-
tory. However fuitable it was in feveral of its.
Parts,
·
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
9
t
Parts, and it certainly was fuitable in all its Mo-
ral Parts, to the common Nature of Mankind;
yet, by fome of its Ordinances, it was limited
and circumfcribed, and could not be defigned
for the general Acceptation of all Men: For
this undoubtedly, there were good Reafons. And
notwithſtanding the Partiality of its Extent, it
feems almoſt impious to queftion, whether the
limited Conftitution of the Jewish Religion, and
the exclufive Privileges of it, were not defigned
for the Good of the general Syſtem. But the
Law, in fome Parts of it, was given to the Jews
for the Hardneſs. of their Hearts. And Grace
and Truth came by Jefus Chrift. His Truth was
not to be confined to the Defcendants of one
Family, or a particular Nation: And his Grace
or Favour was to be offered to all, to be fet up
on high like the Sun, to gladden and illuminate
the dark World, and to diffuſe its enlivening
Rays among all People. It was to be divulged
to all, becauſe all Men had a common Intereſt
in it: For as in Adam all died, even fo in
Chrift were all to be made alive. It was not to
be fequefter'd into particular Hands, or made the
Property of any particular People: But to be
publiſhed as the Charter of General Salvation,
a Light to lighten the Gentiles, and, at laſt, to be
the Glory and Honour of the People of Ifrael.
B
For
1
-
10
A SERMON before the Society
1
For however averfe the Jews were to it at Firft,
and however obftinately they might be fet againſt
it at Prefent, and however defirous fome Perfons
may be, out of an ignorant and narrow Mind, of
keeping them without the Pale of Chriſtianity,
and tho' they pray for their Converfion, of pre-
cluding them from the probable Means of it;
yet we know the Purpofes of God by the De-
clarations of his Scripture, and that not only
other Sheep, which are not of the Jewish Fold,
ſhall be gathered to him, but that the Blindness
Ifa. xlix. of the Jews fhall be removed, and that he will
raife up the Tribes of Jacob, and restore the Pre-
Served of Ifrael.
John x.
16.
6.
Rom. xi.
6.
•
And tho' their Eyes have been darkned that
they could not fee, and tho' they have bowed
down their Back alway; yet all Ifrael Shall be
faved, as it is written, there all come out of
Sion the Deliverer, and ſhall turn away Ungodli-
nefs from Jacob. And the everlasting Gofpel
fhall be preached to all, and believed by all, that
Rev. xiv. dwell on the Earth, by every Nation, and Kindreds
and Tongue, and People.
36.
But let me obferve in the fecond Place, that,
as God thought fit at firft to make Ufe of Hu-
man Agency in the Eſtabliſhment of Chriftianity,
fo muft it be perpetuated and continued by the
fame Means.
The
་
}
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
1
"
1
The natural Powers of the Apoſtles were by
no Means adequate to the Undertaking they em-
bark'd in, or the Succefs that attended them.
And we can ſcarcely imagine fuch Perfons, un-
der all the Diſadvantages of Education and For-
-tune, could ever entertain a Notion of being
likely, by their own Means, to eſtabliſh a Reli-
gion, directly oppofite to the prevailing Princi-
ples of Mankind. The Work was too great for
fuch Inftruments; and common Senfe could not
fuffer them to think of it, without an Affurance
of ſome extraordinary Help and Affiftance. But
all that Intrepidity and Firmneſs of Mind, all
that Refolution and Contempt of Danger, that
neceffarily ariſe from the Conviction of Truth,
took Place in thoſe firſt Eſtabliſhers of Chrifti-
anity, and was heighten'd by a Charitable Defire,
and the utmoft Efforts of Human Benevolence,
to make known the glad Tidings of Salvation,
and to publiſh them to the World. And thoſe
Principles which Providence made uſe of in the
Foundation of Chriſtianity, muft neceffarily be ·
exerted in the Prefervation and Continuance of
it. For we have little Reafon now to expect
any extraordinary Aid and Affiſtance, becauſe
the Evidence is full and compleat. And where
a Cauſe has been well fupported, and faithfully
tranſmitted, a reaſonable Man will take not
Exceptions
B.2
12
A SERMON before the Society
Exceptions to it, upon Account of his not hav
ing been admitted to the Hearing, or made a
Witneſs in the Proceeding. It was neceffary
that Chriſtianity, at its firft Appearance, ſhould
be attended with Signs and Wonders, as well to
awaken the Attention of Men, as to proclaim
the Concurrence and Approbation of the Al-
mighty. But when its Evidence was accom-
pliſhed, thoſe Powers were withdrawn, and it
was to depend, for its. Support, on human Pru-
dence and the benevolent Difpofitions of Man-
kind. And whoever will at any Time confider
the Defign of God in the Inftitution of Chrifti-
anity; the fad Condition Men were in before its.
Eſtabliſhment; the Nature of its Precepts, and:
the Generofity of its Doctrines; whoever con-
fiders the Tendency of it, to eſtabliſh Peace and
good Order in the World, to introduce and pro-
mote every tender Sentiment and every focial.
Affection, and to reftrain from Violence in
Word and Deed; whoever confiders the Good:
it muſt do in all Places where it is, rationally.
embraced and duly regarded, and whoever
confiders,, not only the Happineſs it propoſes to
give us here, but the Profpect it affords us of an
eternal Weight of Glory prepared. for us here.
after, will-be eafily led, by every Principle of
Goodneſs that belongs to human Nature, to,
affift
A
1
ร
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
}
affift in ſupporting it; and will eafily fee that
Providence, in committing this Treaſure to our
Charge, has made us, as it were, the Depofita-
ries of his Will, and appointed us to be the In-
ſtruments of carrying on his Defigns, and fup-
porting that Plan of Salvation, that was publiſh-
ed by Jefus Chrift. The Propagation of Chrif-
tianity is now fubmitted to human Counfels,
and no one that is convinced of its Divinity,
and has that Regard and Affection that he ought
to have for Mankind, will be indifferent or
unconcerned about its Support and Continuance,
We may obferve, in many Instances, a ſtrong
Defire of having our Judgments approved and
fubmitted to by other People. And this may be
confidered as the Voice and Direction of Nature,
calling upon us to do as much Good as we can-
to inftruct the Ignorant, and to correct the mif-
taken Notions of other People. And tho' this
Principle may fometimes be concerned, as well
in leading Men into the Mazes of Error, as into
the plain and obvious Road. of Truth, and tho"
the Pharifee, in purfuance of it, may compafs
Sea and Land to make a Profelyte to his Opi-
nions, yet when we not only know the Inno-
cence, but the Utility of a. Cauſe,, a Zeal for its
Support muſt certainly be commendable; and a.
Defire of communicating our Knowledge can.
neven
14
A SERMON before the Society
vi. 12, &c.
never be more laudably exerted, than in our En-
deavours to propagate the Truth and Simplicity
of the Gofpel. "For this Wifdom is glorious and
Wiſdom never fadeth away. She is easily feen of them
that Love her, and found of fuch as feek her.
She preventeth them that deftre her, in making
herſelf firſt-known unto them. Whofo feeketh ber
early fhall have no great Travel, for he fhall
find her fitting at his Doors. She goeth about
feeking fuch as are worthy of her, fheweth her-
felf favourably to them in the Ways, and meeteth
them in every Thought. The true Beginning of
her is the Defire of Difcipline, and the Care of
Difcipline is Love."
But Thirdly let us obferve, That Chriftianity
cannot be fo well fupported, in the natural
Courſe of Things, without a ftanding Miniſtry,
and a regular Adminiftration of the Word and
Sacraments.'
How shall they call on him, in whom they have
not believed; and how shall they believe in him,
of whom they have not heard; and how ſhall they
continue in the Faith without a Preacher? Plant
Chriſtianity among the Greeks or Barbarians,
among the Wife or the Fooliſh, among the Ig-'
norant or the Learned, and we ſhall find it little
able to maintain its Ground, without a Deftina-
2 Tim. iv, tion of Perfons to inculcate it. To preach the
2.
Word,
2
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
!
'
Word, to be Inftant in Seafon and out of Seaſon,
to reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with all long Suf-
fering and Doctrine. And St. Paul may preach,
and Apollos may water, yet the Soil will be un-
fruitful, and the Labour vain, without a repeated
Tillage and a continued Cultivation. If the
Apoſtles, attended even as they were, with the
Demonftration of the Spirit and of Power, had
appointed no Perfons to fucceed them in the
Work of the Miniftry; if they had not commit-
ed the Things which they heard to faithful Men,
who were willing to engage in the fame Under-
taking, and able to teach and inftruct others
alfo; the Period of Chriftianity would probably
have been but fhort, and if the Name of it had
continued, we fhould have ftood but little Chance
of any Thing more. This I apprehend would
have been the Cafe in a natural Way, and with-
out a particular Interpofition of Providence.
And this may help us to account for the Decay
and Difappearing of Chriftianity in fome Parts,
where we might expect it would have had a
longer Continuance. For without. Perfons fitted
and qualified to enforce and recommend it, to
thew its Evidence as well as its Defign, it becomes
foon adulterated or foon forgotten.. And there-
fore in Places where it is difficult to find proper
Teachers, or inconvenient to procure them, we
may
16
A SERMON before the Society.
1
1
may be allow'd fure, without any Imputation of
infringing the Liberties, or intruding upon the
Province of any fett of People whatever, to lend
our Affiſtance where it is called for, and Oppor
tunity offers, in Aid and Support of our com-
mon Chriſtianity: For, under the above-men-
tioned Circumſtances, we may expect it will
continue but a little Time, without the Benevo-
lence and Affiſtance of other People. And it is
this Benevolence which we meet to recommend
and encourage: "In many of our Plantations
"and Colonies (as our Charter ſets forth) the Pro-
"vifion for Minifters is mean, and many others
"are wholly unprovided of a Maintenance for
<<
Miniſters, and the publick Worſhip of God;
" and by this Means, many feem to be aban-
"don'd to Atheiſm and Infidelity, and others to
Popish Superftition and Idolatry."
65
And as the fame Caufes, without a particular
Prevention, will always produce the fame Effects.;
without our Liberality and Affiftance, we may
be confident, the good Principles of Chriſtianity
muſt wear out and diſappear in our Colonies,
and be fucceeded by others, that are either pre-
judicial to Truth, or fhocking to Society.
But let us obferve in the next Place, That as
it is our Duty at all Times to fet forth the Sal-
vation of all Men, fo it is, in an efpecial Manner,
a
भर्दै
•
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
a national Duty at this Time, to endeavour to
preferve the Communion of our Colonies. And.
I don't know of any Way fo likely to have that
Effect, as by affifting the pious Intentions of this
Society. I don't fee how our Colonies, fituated
as they are, and little able, by their own Means,
to provide themſelves Paftors and Inftructors, are
likely to continue in their Proteftant Principles,
without our Aid and Liberality. For the Papifts,
laying always in wait to deceive, creeping into
every Houſe, and leading captive the Ignorant
and Unwary, have a fair Opportunity of inſtill-
ing their Doctrines, and feldom fail of Succefs,
in Places where Religion is either made a Mat-
ter of Indifference, or where there is a Failure of
fuch Perfons, as are fitted to counteract their
Defigns, and to prevent the Poiſon of their Infi-
nuations. And if our Colonies change their
Communion, we fhall be in great Danger of
lofing the Fruits of their Induſtry. For a For-
faking their Proteftant Principles, will neceffarily
terminate in a Change of their Allegiance. And
if they quit our Faith, they will leave us little
Hopes of retaining their Friendſhip.
And we may fay in General, without any Of-
fence againſt Charity, and without any Severity
of Judgment, That it is as difficult. to conceive
how a fincere Papiſt can be a good Subject in a
Proteftant
C
17
1
1
18
A SERMON before the Society
{
Proteftant Nation, as it is to conceive how a Per-
fon can be faithful to our Intereft, 'who looks
upon it as a Duty to act in Oppoſition to it.
Theſe Suggeſtions, not unworthy of our Con-
fideration at any Time, demand a particular At-
tention now, when our Enemies are endeavour-
ing, by every Method of Violence, and by every
Artifice of Delufion, to invade our Territories
and feduce our People. May God preſerve them
againſt the former, and affift our Undertakings
in preventing the latter. May He protect them
againſt the pestilent Opinion that worketh in Dark-
neſs, and the Deſtruction that waſteth at Noon-day.
Let me only obſerve farther, that tho' what I
have ſaid may relate more particularly to fuch as
profeſs themſelves Members of Christianity, yet
we may expect, from the Nature of Things,
that the pious Intentions of this Society, will, in
good Time, operate in a more extenfive Manner,
and difperfe the Clouds of Paganiſm and Barbarity.
Chriſtianity was not founded at first among
the Rude and the Barbarous, and its Advances
must be flow, where Men have corrupted, or are
unacquainted with all the good Principles of hu-
man Nature. For how can it be expected that
the untutored Mind of a poor Indian, fhould be
capable of imbibing the Truths, or digefting the
Precepts of the Goſpel, however plainly propoſed
to him.
But
$
}
for the Propagation of the Gospel. 19
í
But firſt civilife the Barbarians by friendly
Intercourfe and gentle Treatment let them fee
and partake of the good Effects of Chriſtianity,
in our Honefty and Juſtice; calm their favage
Difpofitions, and reſcue them out of that Wild-
nefs, they have unhappily fallen into; and then
we ſhall find them well prepared for the Recep
tion of Truth. In the natural Order of Things,
Men muſt be restored to Humanity, before they
can be converted to Chriftianity. And how
t
fhould thofe Perfons be able to weigh a morał
Truth, and its Evidence, who never extended
their Enquiries beyond what is neceffaty for their
animal Support!
་
It is by Communication and Example that a
Way muſt be paved for Chriſtianity: And we
can little expect to convince the Heart, till weê
have, in fome Sort, cleared the Underſtanding
from that Rubbiſh which a favage Education
muſt throw upon it. There may indeed be Ex-
ceptions to this natural Order, and Inftances of
Converfion without civilizing. But 'tis to be
feared that fuch Seed is fown in ftony Places, where
it fuddenly Springs up, and as fuddenly withers
away. And therefore let us uſe our beft endea-
vours to fupport Chriſtianity in our Colonies, and
we may be fure it will extend itſelf, in due Time,
among thoſe who are prepared for it.
C 2
And
20
A SERMON before the Society
་
And let us befeech God to affift our imperfect
Endeavours, and direct us to fuch Methods of
Propagating his Gofpel, as may feem proper to
his infinite Wiſdom. Let us pray that his King-
dom may be ſpeedily eſtabliſhed on Earth, and
that all may be brought into one Fold, under one
Shepherd.
Let us pray that neither Tares, nor Hay, nor
Wood, nor Stubble, may be mixed with Chrif
tianity, in the Propagation of it. That it may
be ſet forth in its native Purity, and recommend-
ed as confiftent with every Principle of human
Reafon. And let us befeech God to abate thofe
Heats and Animofities, that naturally tend to
prevent the Propagation of our Religion; to
check the Violence and Injuftice of our Enemies
that his Faith may be made known upon Earth,
and his faving Health among all Nations.
1
An
·
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SoCIETY
FOR THE
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
1
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Parish Church of ST. MARY-LE-Bow,
On FRIDAY February 18, 1757.
By the Right Reverend Father in GOD,
EDMUND Lord Biſhop of CHESTER.
LONDON:
Printed by E. OWEN and T. HARRISON in
Warwick-Lane; and Sold by A. MILLAR
at Buchanan's Head in the Strand.
MDCCLVII.
,
At the Anniverſary Meeting of the
Society for the Propagation of the
Goſpel in Foreign Parts, in the Veſtry-
Room of St. Mary-le-Bow, on Friday
the 18th Day of February, 1757,
A
GREED, That the Thanks of
the SOCIETY be given to the
Right Reverend the Lord Biſhop of
Cheſter, for his Sermon preached this
Day before the SOCIETY, and that
his Lordship be defired to deliver a
Copy of the fame to the SOCIETY
to be Printed.
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary.
St. MATTHEW's Goſpel, Ch. xxiv. Ver. 12.
And becauſe Iniquity ſhall abound, the
Love of many fhall wax cold.
HAT God Almighty intend-
ed the Revelation of his Will
by Jefus Chrift, to be the
Means of Salvation to all Man-
kind, is evident from the very
Nature of it; from the whole
Tenor of Prophecies antecedently made concern-
ing it; and from the exprefs Declarations of
Chriſt himſelf. And yet, at the fame Time it
is as evident, that this great and important Blef
fing did not meet with fuch Reception amongst
Men, at its firſt Promulgation, as was due to it;
and that at preſent the Profeffion of it is circum-
ſcribed within a ſmall Part of that World, for the
Happineſs of which it was originally given. It
A 2
is
3
A
A SERMON before the Society
is likewiſe to be obferved and lamented, that
in many of thoſe Places where it is acknowledged
and ſubmitted to, grofs and moft offenfive Cor-
ruptions have intermixed themfelves with it, and
deprived it of its primitive Beauty and Simplicity:
And that every where, even in its moft reformed
ftate, there is room to complain, that the Influ-
ence upon the Lives and Morals of Mankind is by
no means fuch as might have been expected to be
the Effect of fo great and perfect a Gift from
Heaven.
1
Thefe Circumftances have ever been looked
upon in
in very
different Lights, according as they
have appeared to the found or the depraved Judg-
ment of the Obferver. To Men unwilling to
receive Evangelical Truths, they have been con-
fidered not only as Difficulties in the Contempla-
tion of God's Proceeding, but as ftrong and un-
furmountable Objections to the Belief of Chrifti-
anity; implying either Defect in the Plan, or
Impracticablenefs in the Execution: whilft the
pious and thinking Obferver, from a large and
comprehenfive Survey of the general Method of
God's Government on Earth, fees enough to
adore the Wifdom and Goodnefs of Providence,
in its great and glorious Defigns for our Welfare
and Happinefs; and that it is either the Weak-
nefs
{
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
5
nefs, or the Wickednefs of Men, that has pre-
vented their full Accompliſhment.
I would not willingly accufe every one who
has laid a greater Strefs on thefe, or any other
Objections, than they will bear, with culpable
Motives for fo doing; but I think we may, with-
out an Imputation of the Want of Candor, de-
clare, that whoever has ferioufly confidered, and
fubmitted to the collected Force of Evidence pro-
ducible in Favor of Christianity, cannot justify
himſelf for relinquishing his Faith, on Account of
the fubfequent Defects in the Propagation of it.
By felecting this Paffage therefore, I did not
mean to enter into fuch Queftions with the Ene-
mies of the Goſpel of Chrift, in the Performance
of this Duty which has been allotted to me by this
Venerable Society: That indeed would be a vain
and fuperfluous Undertaking; for they who ei-
ther are declared Enemies to the Crofs of Chriſt,
or only doubt of the Truth of the Gofpel, will
pay little Attention to any thing urged towards
promoting this laudable Inſtitution. But as there
may be many ſerious and religious Perfons, who
being disheartened at the gloomy and melancholy
State of Chriſtianity, may conclude in Defpon-
dency, that God, for the Sins and Ingratitude of
the World, has withdrawn his protecting Provi-
dence over it; or at leaſt, that in this general De-
cay,
6
A SERMON before the Society
cay, any private Influence or Affiftance on their
Part, would be of little Avail towards the Revival,
or Support of it, by which means their own Love
and Affection towards the facred Cauſe may pof-
fibly grow at length languid and cold; it may
not be improper to fhew, that, inſtead of deſpair-
ing on fuch a View of Things, we ought rather
to be ſtimulated on that Account, to a more vigo-
rous Exertion of our own Endeavors to enlarge
the Kingdom of Chriſt, by whatever Opportuni-
ties may open themſelves to us.
The Text ſuppoſes that the Perſons alluded to
had on Conviction embraced the Gofpel Truths;
and fuggeſts the Weakneſs and Culpablenefs of
their Conduct, for having fuffered their Princi-
ples to be unſettled, and their Zeal to be extin-
guiſhed, becauſe the Propagation of the Goſpel
was rendered imperfect, and its Succeſs prevent-
ed, by the Perfecution of its Enemies on one
Part, and the Deceit and Corruption of its Friends
on the other. And becaufe Iniquity fhall abound,
the Love of many fhall wax cold.
The Unreasonablenefs of fuch Behaviour will
be fhewn under the following Confideration :
That God has chofen fuch a Method of
communicating his divine Will to the Sons of
Men, as feemed moft expedient for him to
ufe on fo extraordinary an Occafion, and
was
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
7
was at the fame Time beft accommodated to
the Nature of free and rational Agents, who
were capable of feeing and judging of the
Truth, yet liable to reject and deviate from it;
and who therefore it is as natural to ſuppoſe,
from their various Paffions and Prejudices,
would abuſe this moft gracious Offer, as
they had all other. Favors that had been
granted to them, fubject to the Freedom of
their Will.
This Religion was not introduced into
the World at once, and on a fudden, but
was very early pointed out and promiſed; its Af-
furances ftrengthned by Degrees; and at length
it was plainly and minutely deſcribed, not only as
to the Matter of it, but the Manner of producing
it to the World. When therefore our Saviour
came upon Earth, and claimed the Character af-
figned him, and appealed to thoſe previous Teftimo-
nies of himſelf, it was done with the strictest Pro-
priety, as ſuch Teſtimony was fingularly adapted
to that People, to whom were committed the
Oracles of God; and who had conftant Occafion
of attending to and applying thoſe Prophecies to
the Purpoſe deſigned. This was one juſt and
proper Method on God's part, of requiring the
Confent of the Jews to the Truth of the Goſpel;
but, at the ſame Time, it was a rational Proceed-
ing, ſuited to the Faculties of human Nature, and.
:
the
8
A SERMON before the Society
x
$
the Will of a free and thinking Being. The Ap-
plication of Prophecy to the Events foretold, is a
Work of Underſtanding and Deliberation; and the
Deduction from thence, fo as to make it a Ground
of Belief, requires a Mind difengaged from all
undue Influence, and open to a fair Conviction.
Lefs than this Evidence, even with the additional
Force of Miracles, would not have been adequate.
to the great Work of bringing the Jews over from
one Religion eſtabliſhed by God himſelf, to the
embracing of another, formed on a very different
and, in fome Refpects, contrary Plan. And one
cannot conceive how more could have been done,
when the great Meffenger from Heaven pointed
out the Proofs himfelf in Perfon, explained the
different Prophecies, and required their Confent
with an extraordinary Sufpenfion of the Courſe of
Nature.
To theſe great Inſtances of divine Interpofition,
given to reclaim this finful and hardned Nation,
our Saviour joins calm and difpaffionate Reafon-
ing, kind and gentle Admonitions, fevere Re-
proofs, and dreadful Denunciations. Here, we
fee, was the fupernatural Power of God` exerted
in producing the Effect, alarming the Attention,
affifting the Underſtanding, and leading and invit-
ing a well difpofed Mind to the Knowledge, and
Acceptance of the Truth; but, at the fame Time,
not fuperfeding the Natural Faculties of the Man,
or
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
لي
or overwhelming the Will by irreſiſtible Force.
By this means, whilſt Vice and Prejudice remain-
ed unmoved, great Scope was left for Merit and
Approbation in difcerning and adhering to the
Truth. And who had Reaſon to complain? If
the haughty Pharifee had through Pride and Am-
bition puffed himſelf up with the Idea of extend-
ed Empire and univerfal Dominion, and was by
that means diſappointed in the meek and humble
Appearance, and felf-denying Doctrines of the
holy Jefus, was the Incorrigibleneſs of fuch wrong
Conceits to be imputed to the Defect of God's
Care in unfolding his Defigns, or to the Depravity
of his own Heart? If the Spirit of monopolizing
God's Favors, and a perfect Contempt for the reft
of Mankind, rendred him averfe to the Doctrine
of Univerfal Salvation, it was owing to his own
partial and corrupted Judgement, and not to any
Obſcurity in the declared Will of Heaven. A
deſpiſed and ſuffering Saviour might well be a
ftumbling Block to Minds byaffed with the falſe
Glitter of worldly Grandeur, but it was made
effential to Man's Redemption, and the Character
was firſt deſcribed, and afterwards affumed under
undeniable Marks of Truth.
The Evidence of Prophecy was at this time
confined to the Jewiſh Nation, and could be no
immediate
B
ΤΟ
ASERMON before the Society
immediate Object of the Gentile's Converfion.
But our Saviour, before his Afcenfion, had dele-
gated to his Apoſtles a moft ample Commiffion
to teach, and fupernatural Powers to enforce
Authority, in the heathen World; and ſuch was
the wonderful Effect, and fuch the fudden Pro-
pagation from fuch feemingly unequal Inftru-
ments, as will ever remain a diftinct Proof in
itſelf that God was the Author of this Religion.
Miracles were neceffary to fecure the Attention
of the Hearer, and to confirm the Commiffion of
the Preacher; when that was done, the Apoſtles.
depended on the Difpofition and Temper of their
Audience, and they proceeded in a regular argu-
mentative Addrefs to them, for their rational Ac-
ceptance of the Gofpel.
The awful Evidence that God was prefent,
and fufpended the regular Courfe of Nature for
our Conviction, was expedient at the Eſtabliſh-
ment of any new Doctrines, which our natural
Faculties could not penetrate; but fuch was the
Regard had to the Conftitution of moral Beings,
whoſe Religion muſt be founded on Deliberation
and Choice to make it acceptable to their gra-
cious Governor, that the first Preachers la-
boured earnestly to fhew, the Reaſonableneſs, and
Expediency of this divine Interpofition for the
Welfare of Mankind. They faw that the great
Difficulties
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
II
Difficulties in bringing the Heathens to the
Knowledge of and Belief in Chrift, were grofs
Idolatry, and Corruption of Morals the neceffary
Confequence of it. They therefore in their
preaching, before they began to open the peculiar
Doctrines of Chrift, undertook to clear up the
Nature and Perfections of the Supreme Being, and
to re-eſtabliſh the Principles of Natural Religion.
This was the gradual and regular Method of in-
troducing Chriſtianity into a darkened and cor-
rupted World: it was neceffary that Men ſhould
acknowledge the miferably depraved State of
human Nature, before they could fee the Want
of Reformation; it was neceffary they ſhould be
informed of the ftrict Purity and fpiritual Nature
of God, before they could judge of his utter Ab-
horrence of Vice and Iniquity; and of his un-
bounded Goodneſs and Mercy, before they could
conceive how he would be difpofed to forgive fo
ungrateful a World, and Himſelf form a Plan
of Reconciliation. -
Such was the divine Care in convincing an
obdurate World; and we may obferve that they,
whether Jew or Gentile, whofe Vanity, Conceit,
or Depravity of Manners, had rendred them deaf
to the Propriety and Utility of ſuch a Reform,
were equally inattentive to the Force of Miracu-
lous Powers. Thofe to whofe Prejudices the
preaching
B 2
12
A SERMON before the Society
preaching of the Gofpel feemed Fooliſhneſs, were
generally incapable of Conviction from any Mo
tive whatever.
Who might not have expected a Happy Iffue
from the remarkable Interview between St. Paul
and the Athenian Philofophers? One might have
hoped that theſe learned Sages, who were eager
after new Things, and whofe Profeffion was to
fearch after Truth, would have paid a juft Atten-
tion to a Perſon to whofe Character probably they
were not Strangers, whilft he undertook to
unfold to them fome very interefting Knowledge,
which had hitherto been undiſcovered by their
niceft Inquiries.
The great Apoftle proceeded to fhew them
the Way to Life eternal, by firſt letting them
know the only true God, and then Jefus Chrift,
whom he had fent: And what was the Event of
this Tranſaction? The Reproach upon their Igno-
rance fo affected their Pride, and Conceit of their
own Abilities, that they foon turned the Difcourfe
of their infpired Instructor into Mockery and
Ridicule. Would any one now think that a
Miracle wrought would have produced a ferious
Converfion? St. Paul was too well acquainted
with human Nature to try the Experiment on Minds
fo ftrongly influenced by Paffion and Prejudice.
Where Reaſoning, fo well adapted to the Cha-
racters
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
racters and Profeffion of the Men, had failed of
Succefs, he faw they would have paid little Re-
gard to the Force of Authority; whilft fome of
the Company, of more humble Sentiments, and
more fit for Conviction, at once yeilded their Af-
ſent, and became real Converts. "Some mocked;
"howbeit certain men clave unto him, and
"believed."
Notwithſtanding the Obftinacy and Irreclaim-
ableneſs of many, yet, by the extraordinary Me-
thods vouchfafed in its Favor, the Word of God
grew mightily and prevailed. And when once it
was eſtabliſhed under the Protection and Autho-
rity of Civil Government, with its Truth fup-
ported by an Hiftorical Evidence of the whole
Tranfaction, tranfmitted down with every Mark
of Authenticity, our Belief acquired a fufficient
Foundation, without the fuperior Affiftance of
Miracles. Nor can any one with Juftice com-
plain that there is not, in thefe latter Days, the
help of thofe great Inftruments of rouzing the
Attention, enlightning the Underſtanding, and
confirming the Faith, which were indulged to
thoſe who lived under the firſt Dawnings of
the Gofpel. Such a Continuation of extraordinary
Affiftance could not, on many Accounts, be ex-
pected; but, in the Room thereof, we have
many Advantages over thofe who have
over thoſe who have gone be-
fore us. We have not indeed that bright Dif
play
14
A SERMON before the Society
play of divine Power before our Eyes as was
exerted in the firft Promulgation; but we have
a large and comprehenfive View, through a clear
and diſtinct Medium, of the Original Plan of
this great Work; the Gradual difclofing of it,
and the Method of conducting it; its taking Effect;
the Oppofitions made; and the Explanations and
Defences of it; its various Depreffions; and, at
length, its final Exaltation and Conqueft over the
World. With all this we find, by daily Expe-
rience, how admirably it is adapted to publick
Utility, as well as to the private Happineſs of the
Individual; what real and effential Benefit it has
produced to the World, as well by the Reſtraint
of Evil, as by the diffufing of Good through every
Part all which could not appear whilſt it was
ftruggling in its Infancy, and prevented in its Ef-
fects by the coercive Power of perfecuting Ma-
giftrates. And from hence arifes as ftrong and
as collected a Force of Evidence in Support of its
Truth, as any reaſonable Man could with for on
fo very important a Subject. If you fay that
many daily reject this Evidence, fo they did the
Evidence of Prophecy and Miracles: If at this
Time they deny the Poffibility of Miracles; in
former 'Days they afcribed the Performance of
them to Diabolical Powers. Pharifaical Pride,
and vain Philoſophy, Vice, and Indifference, are
4.4.
as
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
15
[
as ready to oppofe and reject as they were for-
merly. In all Ages, the Perverfenefs of Mankind
has kept Pace with the gracious Method God has
been pleaſed to make Ufe of, for the Inftruction
and Reformation of his Creatures.
All this was forefeen, and foretold, by our
bleffed Saviour, who knew the Conftitution of
the human Mind too well to expect Univerfal
Obedience. He very early warned his Diſciples
that many would reject the Whole; that fome
would ſubmit for a Time and then defert the`
Faith; that others would with falfe Pretenfions
endeavour to deceive and perplex; that Corrup-
tions, both in Faith and Practice, would foon
prevail, and that Iniquity would abound enough
to damp the Zeal and Affection of the well-dif-
pofed. We may lament in thefe Cafes the De-
pravity of human Nature, but we cannot with
Innocence impute the Blame to Him who formed
us for far better Purpoſes, and fo evidently has
directed the Way to Happineſs. If by our
own culpable Inattention we have deviated from
the right Path, if by indulging Falfe Appetites we
have loft our Relish for Truth, the Confequence
of our Errors, and of our vitiated Tafte, muft be
placed to our own Account. For the fame kind
of Reafoning which has been uſed with regard
to the Rejection of the Gofpel, will hold as to
the
16
A SERMON before the Society
the Effect it had on the Lives of thofe who em-
braced it. The Purity of its Precepts has ever
been urged as a convincing Proof of its Truth;
and they who firſt profeffed the Goſpel, accom-
modated their Practice fo clofely to its moral.
Doctrines, that the Lives of Chriftians became a
freſh Argument in Favor of their Religion: and
as this Union of Faith and Practice produced fo
good an Effect, we ſhall find that their Separa-
tion was a principal Occafion of the Decline of
Chriſtianity: It was however the Effect of an Unna-
tural Separation, for nothing can be more contra-
dictory than a Man's declaring himſelf a Diſciple
of Chrift, and living in a determined Oppofition
to his Laws. Every deliberate Violation of the
Rules of Chrift's Religion is a real Act of Un-
belief, and a Man fo far forth rejects the Goſpel
of his Maſter. The genuine Effect of this holy
Religion is Purity and Integrity of Life, as perfect
as human Nature can admit; and if Men de-
ceive themſelves and others with the Name of
Chriſtian, without fubmitting to the Diſcipline
required, the Cauſe indeed of Chriſt may ſuffer,
but the Excellence of his Doctrines, and the
Goodness of his Defigns, will remain unim-
peached.
If what has been laid down be a proper Repre-
fentation of God's Conduct towards us, what
Judgement
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
Judgement is to be formed of it? If as much
Evidence has been all along afforded, as the Na-
ture of the thing required, and the Conſtitution
of human Beings would admit, can any one rea-
ſonably complain that more powerful Methods
were not made ufe of, adequate to the Preju-
dices and Perverſeneſs of thoſe who have reject-
ed it? He cannot do this with Propriety, if he
confiders the general Scheme of God's Govern-
ment over us, and reflects that every Bleffing,
-both Natural and Moral, which he has beſtowed
upon us, has been fubjected by him to our right
or wrong Application of it.-When Wickedneſs
and Infidelity triumph in the Land, and Corrup-
tion has fo disfigured the Beauty of this holy
Religion, through the greateſt part of the World
where it is profeffed, that it feems to bear little
Refemblance of what it was in its original Meek-
nefs, Simplicity, Charity and Humility; and
when by this means, and by the fierce Conten-
tions amongst its Members, and mutual Hatred
and Violence often about matters of fmall con-
cern, whole Countries where it had once taken
firm Root, and had flouriſhed apace, have been
deprived of this greateſt of Bleffings, and are
now the Prey of Barbariſm, and worſe than Pa-
gan Darkneſs; will any reaſonable Man mur-
mur, and ſuffer his Love for the Truth to fail,
becauſe God does not by fome fignal vifible Ef-
C
fect
18
A SERMON before the Society
fect vindicate his holy Caùfe, and reſcue it from
fuch Devaftation? Such a one muſt have
great Preſumption in preſcribing to the Almighty
the Methods he ſhould take, or the Time he ſhould
fix upon for the Support of his Government, who
at beſt can comprehend fo very little of his De-
figns, and is fo unable to penetrate in this fall
Period of Exiſtence, the unlimited Extent of
God's Providence, refpecting the Whole of our
Duration.
An humble and religious Man, who has con-
fined his Inquiries concerning God within the
Compafs of what has been made known to us by
the Book of Nature and Revelation, will not ex-
tend his Curiofity into fuch hidden Things, left it
ſhould prove not quite Blamelefs. If God has
been pleaſed to afford him fuch an Evidence for
his Faith as has been fufficient to convince him,
he is thankful for it, is content with that Share of
Light which has been indulged him, and endea-
yours to make the beft Ufe of it. If he finds that
others who have had the fame Opportunities of
knowing Chrift, by fome means have their
Eyes ftill darkened, he will lament it, and pray
for and endeavour at their Converfion; but he
will not fuffer fuch Inftances to have any other
Effect on his Mind, than to make him more mi-
nutely examine the Grounds and Reaſons of his
own Belief: the Weakneſs and Inftability of
other
7
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
19
other Men's Tempers, will only animate him to
a cloſer Perfeverance in that which he has em-
braced after fuch mature Deliberation.
If they who have rejected the Light of the
Gofpel, not content with the boafted Freedom
from Reſtraint which they themſelves enjoy, fhall
break forth in Confederacy to attack the Kingdom
of God, and jointly with the Prince of the Power
of Darkneſs, pervert and infnare the Weak, the
. Youthful, and the Unwary, the well-grounded
Chriſtian will be rouzed with fuch horrid Impie-
ty, in nothing terrified by the Adverſaries, to
ftrive for the Faith of the Goſpel: he knows that
from the Beginning there has been a perpetual
Warfare between the Votaries of Virtue and Vice;
and that therefore it is every Man's unqueſtionable
Duty to oppofe fuch daring Attempts, to be con-
ſtantly armed againſt them, to fortify by Exhor-
tation and Example the Innocent and Heedlefs, and
to endeavour to repair the Damage that may have
been done to the glorious Cauſe in which he is en-
gaged.
•
If when he is contemplating the State to which
Chriſtianity is reduced, he ſhould be grieved, as
indeed all good Men muſt be, at ſo unpleafing a
Scene, he will comfort himſelf with the Hopes,
that, on fome Accounts, Matters ought not to ap-
pear to him quite Deſperate, by reflecting that the
Scriptures, the great Depofitum of our Faith, of
C 2
late
20
A SERMON before the Society
+
late Years have been more clearly explained, and
are better understood than heretofore, and confe-
quently muft introduce more enlightened Princi-
plès, and form better Practice amongſt thoſe who
really believe them, than in the darker Ages of
the Gofpel; and that, notwithſtanding the various
Schifms and Diffentions that diſturb and perplex
the common Cauſe, the honeſt Freedom of think-
ing and judging, which forced its way about two
hundred Years ago, has rendered the State of Chrif
tianity, even in thofe Places where fuch Free-
dom is not allowed, far preferable to that uni-
verfal Ignorance, that uninformed Piety, that
wretched Servility both of Body and Mind, and
that Narrowneſs and Cruelty which prevailed in the
Times immediately preceeding it. This Confide-
ration will be an Incitement to him, to perſevere
in giving his Affiftance towards promoting the
Extent of Chrift's Kingdom, as it fuggefts a pleaf-
ing Hope, that where the Spirit and Temper of
Chriſtianity are well underſtood, it is likely to
make its Progrefs into thofe Places where it ſhineth
not at prefent, with more Facility by its own
natural Strength and Vigour: But he will ftill be
more animated in his Purſuits, as he will look
upon
his honeft Endeavours as co-operating with
the fecret Workings of Providence, when he re-
collects, that tho' the Chriftian Church is mili-
tant at prefent, our Saviour has promifed ever to
be
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
21
be with it, with his Holy Spirit to affift his faith-
ful Followers, and that he will, in his own good
Time, render it Triumphant in every Part of the
World.
Upon thefe Principles the pious and devout
Chriſtian, inſtead of growing Faint at a View of
the Miſchiefs done to the Faith of Chrift, is urg-
ed from that very Confideration to fupply the
Defects, however occafioned; to reftore its Pro-
feffion, wherever it has failed; and to extend the
Knowledge of it as far as human Abilities, under
the Bleffing of Providence, will enable him to
extend it.
Upon theſe Principles the Venerable Society,
before whom I now ftand, has confidered the
State of Chriſtianity in the World, with an earn-
eſt Zeal to promote its Interefts, where it feems
moſt to want Affiftance, and where it is moſt prac-
ticable to bestow it. The melancholy View of
large Countries lying under fuch a thick Cloud of
Darkneſs, and proportioned Depravity of Man-
ners, did not deter them from attempting what
might have ſeemed to fome, lefs animated with a
Senſe of their Duty, and lefs acquainted with the
Spirit of Chriſtianity, to be incapable of Relief.
Since the Almighty has withdrawn the fuper-
natural Powers wherewith the Goſpel was first
propagated, to undertake the Converfion of Savage
Nations, or the Reformation of thofe profeffing
Cor-
22
ASERMON before the Society
Corrupted Religion, would be a fruitless defign,
and argue a Zeal without Knowledge: But in
the pious Inſtitution we are met this Day to re-
commend, we are led by the Hand of Civil Au-
thority to affift thoſe who are earneftly defirous of
being inſtructed in the Purity of the Gofpel, with
a regular Supply of a ftanding Miniſtry; and
tho' at a great Diſtance from us, yet by a happy
Concurrence of Circumftances, as they are Sub-
jects under the ſame gracious Prince, we are able to
promote the Caufe of Chriftianity in a very exten-
five Country, without the Difficulties and Hazard
that attend other Miffions.
Under this, which is the principal Object of
this Society, arifes another Opportunity of doing
religious Service, by inftructing the native Indians,
and tranſplanted Slaves; and by the Vicinity and
Connection with the former, and the Dependence
and Subferviency of the latter, a Door is opened,
of fpreading the Light of the Goſpel, which can
not be reckoned a mean and contemptible one, by
thoſe who have at all confidered the flow and al-
moſt imperceptible Manner by which Providence
fometimes produces the greateft Effects.
There is nothing can fhew the Dignity and
Importance of this pious Inftitution fo much as
the Contraft between the temporal and fpiritual
Good, which genuine, Proteftant Chriſtianity muſt
neceffarily diffuſe through theſe extenſive Count
tries,
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
23
tries, and the difmal State of Things, into which
they muſt fall, if it be not preached amongſt them.
They would either fink into total Barbariſm, or
they would be enfnared by the induſtrious Deceit
of Popery. As Men therefore, and as Chriftians,
as Proteftants and as Englishmen, we are called
upon to affift in diffufing that glorious Light, that
faving Health, that Spirit of Liberty, that Source
of private and public Happineſs, and thoſe cer-
tain Means of a bleffed Futurity, which we of
this nation enjoy, under the Poffeffion of the Pu-
rity of the Gofpel, over moſt other Countries in
the World.
Difficulties there must be in all fuch Under-
takings, and flow will be its Progrefs under the
molt prudent Management. Befides the Refil-
tance of Vice and Prejudice in common amongſt
thofe to whom the Gofpel is preached, we have
the additional Labour of preventing the baneful
Influence of Popery from fpreading itſelf, and of
fecuring the unguarded Mind from being deluded
by the fallacious Pretenfions, and cunningly de-
vifed Fables of that difguifed Religion. Add to
this, that the Kingdom of Darkneſs is combined
againft our Endeavours, and Leffons of Vice and
Infidelity are conveyed at the fame Time to coun-
teract the pious Labours of this Society. What
Effect can fuch abundant Iniquity, fuch zealous
and deliberate Malice, produce in the Mind of
an honeft and fincere Chriftian; but a juſt Indig-
3
nation
24
A SERMON before the Society
nation and Abhorrence of ſuch deteſtable Machi-
nations, and an Union of Hearts towards the more
vigorously fupporting the Caufe of Truth and
Righteouſneſs? It may be efteemed by fome a
vain Undertaking to think of propagating and fup-
porting the Cauſe of Chriſtianity, under ſuch Dif-
couragements, in diftant Parts, which requires
not only the conftant Zeal, but the Liberality of
great Numbers, whilft we are daily complaining
of the Decay of Chriftian Piety, and the daring
and unrestrained Progrefs of Infidelity at Home.
Yet on the Trial we have found fuch amazing
Affiſtance, ſuch unexpected Beneficence, as is not
only a ſtrong Proof of the Propriety and Expe-
diency of this Inftitution, but gives us a pleaſing
Idea, that the cauſe of Chriſtianity is not fo def
perate as the Prophane and Infidel boaft of
fo much, and the Gloomy and Defponding are
apt to believe. The frantic Triumphs of the Vi-
tious and Unbeliever induftriouſly ſpread them-
felves into every place, and wantonly infinuate the
Prevalence of the Party; whilſt the Private Piety
of the Clofet, and the Secret Charity that fuffers
not one Hand to know what the other giveth,
often lie hid in filent Obfcurity, and are the mo-
deſt Graces of Religion which paſs unheeded in
the noify Intercourfe of the World. This Society
has abundantly felt the happy Effects of the Lat-
ter, and we doubt not but the Former has had its
juſt
4
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
25.
juſt Weight at the Throne of Grace, for the En-
largement of Chrift's Kingdom by the Means of
this Undertaking.
But whatever be the State of Religion at Home,
it may well be preſumed that it is not the Worfe
on account of the Endeavours of this Society.
The End for which It was eſtabliſhed is, the Sup-
port of a Regular Miniftry, where none was fet-
tled before; and this does not interfere with any
Inftruction of a fimilar Kind in our native Country;
and the Members of it cannot on any Principle be
ſuppoſed to relax in their Regards for the general
Intereft of their Religion at home, either in their
public or private Capacities, in their Influence or
their Example, who have engaged in this Defign,
merely to extend the great Benefits of the Goſpel
to others not yet enlightened: fo far from it, the
very Society itſelf becomes a diftinct and ſeparate
Witneſs in the Support of Chriftianity, as it ex-
hibits to the World a collected Body of Men united
in the common Faith, and determined to fup-
port and extend it as far as they are able, in Defi-
ance of the Contempt, the Ridicule, and the Ma-
lice of Gainfayers.
So many wife Directions have been given to
thoſe who are employed in theſe Miffions by the
Managers of this Inftitution, or by thoſe who have
gone before me in the Performance of this Duty,
D
that
26
A SERMON before the Society, &c.
that it is almoſt impoffible either to add to, or
improve upon them. I fhall only repeat what has
often been fuggefted, that the true and moft fuc-
ceſsful Method of doing their Duty, is to preach
the Religion of the Bible, to exhibit thofe facred
Credentials in their Genuine Purity, and to ex-
plain its Doctrines, and enforce its Precepts by
Illuſtrations and Arguments drawn from the Foun-
tain itſelf. This will be the propereft Method of
producing the Goſpel amongst thoſe who have
not heard of it before; and will at the fame time
be the ſureſt Way of baffling the Falfhoods, and
expofing the Corruptions of Popery, which can-
not ftand an Appeal to that Tribunal of Light
and Truth. In every Reſpect, irreproachable
Conduct, Sanctity of Manners, and an Exempli-
fication of what they teach, are Effential to the
Succefs of their Miniſtry; they are the Beft Proofs
that they Themſelves believe what they inculcate
to their Hearers, and they give an irreſiſtible
Force to all other Arguments uſed for Convic-
tion.
An
2
A
SERMON
Preached before the
Incorporated SOCIETY
FOR THE
J
Propagation of the Gospel in
Foreign Parts;
}
AT THEIR
ANNIVERSARY MEETING
IN THE
Parish Church of ST. MARY-LE-BOW,
On FRIDAY February 24, 1758.·
By the Right Reverend Father in GOD,
JAMES Lord Bishop of GLOCESTER.
LONDON:
Printed by E. OWEN and T. HARRISON in
Warwick-Lane; and Sold by A. MILLAR
at Buchanan's Head in the Strand.
MDCCLVIII.
}
メルち
​MOMS 2
t
1
At the Anniversary Meeting of the
Society for the Propagation of the
Goſpel in Foreign Parts, in the Veftry
Room of St. Mary-le-Bow, on Friday
the 24th Day of February, 1758,
A
GREED, That the Thanks of
the SOCIETY be given to the
Right Reverend the Lord Biſhop of
Glocefter, for his Sermon preached this
Day before the SOCIETY, and that
his Lordfhip be defired to deliver a
Copy of the fame to the SocÌ E T Y
to be Printed.
Philip Bearcroft, Secretary.
:
፡
•
CELERAMAI
3
PSALM cxliv. VER. 15. latter Part.
Happy is that People whofe God is
J
the Lord.
HE Royal Pfalmift having
put up
* ་
t
his devout and humble
Prayer to God for Deliverance
from his Enemies, and for the
Profperity of his Country,
draws this general Conclufion,
which extends equally to All the Kingdoms of the
Earth, (for the Lord ruleth in them All :) and
upon his Authority, as well as the conſtant
Experience of all Ages, and all Countries, we
may pronounce the Condition of every Individual,
and every Community happy, which places its
Strength and Confidence in God, and lives in
Obedience to His Laws.
A 2
That
C
4
A SERMON before the Society
1
That the Service of Sin is a State of Slavery,
and Miſery, common Obſervation will convince
us. Let us confult our own Reaſon, and upon a
fair Reflection repreſent to ourſelves the Con-
dition of a Man in a private Station, without
that Support, which the Affurance of an over-
ruling Providence, ordering and difpofing all
Things to the Good of its Creatures, naturally
ſuggeſts, and we ſhall ſee him in an unquiet,
and diſtracted State, tortured with thoſe Fears,
and Apprehenfions, with thofe Jealoufies, and
Sufpicions, which muft ever attend the Want of
a Religious Principle; defponding under every
Calamity, and like a Wave of the Sea that is
driven with every Wind.
་
Let us view him in a more Publie Situ-
ation, and we ſhall fee him a Tyrant over his
Fellow Creatures; an Oppreffor of the Liberties
of Mankind.-Jealous of the Inftruments of his
Power, and under continual Apprehenfions of
Vengeance, from which not even his clofeft Re-
tirement can fecure him.
It may eaſily be determined whether this be
a State of Happineſs.
If we carry our Thoughts further, and confi-
der a People collectively, under no Reſtraint of
Principle, and virtuous Difcipline, what a Scene
of
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
5
of Anarchy, and Confufion fhall we have before
our Eyes. Every ungoverned Paffion will give
Law-Strength will be the Meaſure of Juftice-
Ambition will know no Bounds; and Self-In-
tereft prevail over every focial and generous
Affection.
Where then can we lay the Foundation of
Happineſs, but in the free Exerciſe of Reaſon, in
its full Vigor, unbiaffed by any corrupt and par-
tial Affection, and bleſſed with every Affiſtance,
and every Affurance, that can increaſe the
Strength, and confirm the Peace of the Mind?
What can make happy the Heart of Man, but
to have its honeft and pious Endeavours affured
of Acceptance from a God of Truth, and Kind-
nefs, * whofe tender Mercies are over all His
Works. Who knoweth whereof we are made,
who remembreth that we are but Duft ?
What can fecure the Peace and Happineſs of
any Community, but the Practice of public and
private Virtue, the Eſtabliſhment of Order and
Difcipline, and the Encouragement of every ge-
nerous Sentiment, that can warm the Hearts of
Men, and make them active for the public Good,
and ſteady in an uniform Obedience to mild and
* Pfalm cxlv. 9. Pfalmi ciii. 14.
equitable
6
A SERMON before the Society
*
equitable Laws, fupported by the Sanctions of
Religion.
If this be a juft Conclufion from the Words of
the Pfalmift, under the Jewish Difpenfation,
with how much greater Force may they be ap
plied to thoſe, who have the more perfect Know
ledge of the Lord, and his Chrift?
Under thefe Advantages, We furely, whofe
Lot is caft in fo fair a Ground, who have the
pure Light of the 'Gofpel, free from that Super-
ftition which obfcures fo great a Part of the
Globe, muft ftand felf-condemned, if we do not
feel, and enjoy, and improve this Happineſs as
we ought.
And if we have a proper Senfe of this Happi-
réfs ourſelves, we fhall think it incumbent upon
urs, as far as lies in our Power, to carry on this
great Scheme of Providence, and to cooperate
with the Purpofes of Him, whofe gracious Defire
it is, that all Men fhould be faved, and come
•unto the Knowledge of the Truth.
$
To communicate Knowledge, and Happiness,
is a Duty flowing from the Dictates of pure
Nature, and unaffifted 'Reafon.
The Author of our 'Being has engaged us to
it, as rational and facial Creatures.
*
I 'Tim. ii. 4.
He
for the Propagation of the .
7
Gospel.
2
He has ſhewn us by the Methods of his Pro-
vidence, that it is agreeable to his Nature: to
communicate it. For He givethus all Thing's
richly to enjoy. He openeth His Hand, and fatif
↑
fieth the Defire of every living Thing. And in Pro-
portion as He has made us capable of imitating
Him in this particular, He has injoined us to do
it; and to be merciful, as he is merciful, if
we would approve ourselves as his Children.
-
Unlefs then we imagine that Ignorance ean
be the Means of Happiness, as fome would have
it of Devotion, to communicate Knowledge muft
tend to the Advancement of that true Happiness,
which belongs to our reaſonable Nature.
+
:
Improvement in Knowledge naturally pre-
cedes Improvement in Virtue.—And we can`ar-
rive at no Attainment in Knowledge, without
the kind Communication of our Fellow Crea-
tures. If this be the Cafe with respect to human
Knowledge, it is more fo with regard to Religious
Knowledge. For how * hall Men call on Him
in, whom they have not believed? And how fhall
they believe · An・ Him of whom they have not
beard?
>
་
It is the neteffary Condition of any Law, that
it be declared to thofe who are fubject to it. And
ti Tim. vi. 17. Pfalm cxlv. 16.
* Rom. x. 14.
they
8
A SERMON before the Society
they who are bound to publish it; are anſwerable
for the Ignorance of thoſe to whom it might have
been made known. And where the exprefs Law
of God is in Queftion, a Neglect is. more highly
criminal, as the Lofs fuftained by it is of higher
Importance.
:
....
Such a Communication, then, of thofe Lights
with which we ourſelves have been bleffed, con-
ducive to the Happineſs of our Fellow Creatures,
and ſubſervient to the Manifeſtation of God's
Glory, muſt be Matter of indifpenfable Obli-
gation.
Even the Diſcovery of new Countries, and a
free Correfpondence with different Parts of the
World, have ever been efteemed generous, and
laudable.
Every uſeful Improvement in Arts and Sci-
ences ſhould be confidered as a Matter of com-
mon Right, in which all Mankind has an Inter-
eſt.
And ſhall not the Knowledge of the Goſpel-
The Knowledge of Life and Happineſs, engage
us to a Communication of the fame Advantages
to our Fellow Creatures?
The View and Attention of all other Legiſlators
in their Syſtems of Laws, have been confined to
the Intereſts of particular Communities.-But
the
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
9
1
the Laws of Chrift have a general and unli-
mited Aim and Object.
The great Principle of the Goſpel is the
Salvation of all Mankind.
It was our Lord's Injunction to his Apoſtles,
and in them to his future Followers, * Go téach
All Nations. And we have His full Promife,
that He will affiſt and ſupport us in the Execu-
tion of our Commiffion from Him. ‡ Lo I am
with you alway even unto the End of the World.
:: The miraculous Power of ſpreading the Know-
ledge of Chriſt has long fince ceaſed, as no longer
neceffary to the great Purpoſes for which it was
firſt given. The Evidence of our Lord's Mira-
cles' fully delivered, and depofited in faithful
Records is, as it were, always before our Eyes,
and ſtands undiminiſhed through the Succeffion
of Ages. It may be ftill capable of additional
Strength, by the future Accompliſhment of Pro-
phecies not yet fulfilled; and there ftill remains
a progreffive Evidence of the Truths of our Re-
ligion, for the Conviction of Generations to
come: At prefent, as far as we can judge, God
feems to carry on the Purpoſes of His Gofpel,
by the ordinary Means of human Inftruction, and
cooperates with the Endeavours of Men to the
general Manifeſtation of his Grace, and Glory.
1
* Mat. xxviii. 19.
↑ Mat. xxviii. 20.
B
If
10
A SERMON before the Society
1
If then, to communicate Knowledge and
Happineſs is a Duty incumbent upon us from
the Principles of natural Religion, and we are
more ſtrictly tied to it by the Commands of our
Lord and Saviour, Let us confider to whom it is
our Duty to communicate it. This will depend
upon our Abilities, and Opportunities and the
Wants of thoſe to whom it is to be com-
municated.
→
The particular Occafion of this Day's Meeting
directs our Thoughts to our Fellow Subjects in
our feveral Cólonies in America, with whom we
have conftant Intercourfe, and to whom it is
more immediately in our Power to impart it ;
who are the Source of our Wealth, from whom
our Commerce receives its very Life, and Exiſt-
ence, and our Naval, Strength its continual Sup
ply and Increaſe.; and who are intitled to our
first Care and Confideration, by every Motive of
Intereft, and Duty.
The Extent of our Colonies is great, and it
muſt be remembered, that there are among them
thofe whofe Manners are favage, wholly unin-
ftructed in the Arts of Civil Life, who are there-
fore greater Objects of our Compaffion, and
Zeal.
i ...
$
Nor
}
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
}
{
Nor will the Civil Confequences of fuch a
Communication be inconfiderable. The Public
will feel the Advantages of it by a continual
Acceffion to our Strength in America'; and by
that Improvement in our Commerce, which will
follow the Cultivation of the great Principles of
Truth, and Juftice; and that mutual Confidence
which will always refult from them.
May it not be reafonably prefumed, that the
Inhabitants in our Colonies will be more faith-
ful, more dutiful, and more to be depended up-
on, if properly inftructed in the Doctrines of our
Religion, and uſed with that Regard; and′ Ten-
terneſs, which Chriftianity injoins to all our
Fellow Creatures ?
But if Civil Conveniences, and the Profpect of
Advantage, have little Weight, yet furely; the
more generous Motives of Chriftian Zeal, and
Chriſtian Charity, may be fufficient Inducements
to' engage us in fo good a Work.
?
This Benevolence, thus exerted, having the
everlafting Happinefs, of Man for its Object; is
the nobleſt Affection of our Nature, for in this
it more immediately coincides with, and is actu-
ated by, that Love of God, which is the firſt,
and great Commandment.
lat
2. A..
* Mat. xxii. 38.
B 2
To
I 2
A SERMON before the Society¨·
To this generous and noble Principle, this So-
ciety owes its Eſtabliſhment, and it has exerted
itfelf in this good Work, fo wifely, and
faithfully, that, whether confidered in a Civil,
or Religious Light, it may well engage the good
Wiſhes and Affiftance of thofe, who have any
Warmth of Zeal for the Welfare of Mankind,
and the Interefts of Chriftianity.
·
+
77
Schools have been fixed, and Catechifts fett-
led, in the moſt confiderable Parts of our Colo-
nies. In fome Places the Education of the
Children of the Natives has been fet forward,
from which we may promife ourfelves particular
Advantages.
The Succefs of the Miffionaries hitherto em-
ployed, notwithſtanding the Hazards of Health,
in fuch long and conftant Journeys, in diftant
Pariſhes, fhews us what might be expected, if
the Number could be increaſed, and in any
Meaſure proportioned to the large Tract of
Country, whoſe Inhabitants want Inſtruction,
and whoſe ſavage Nature, and Difpofition, ftands
in Need of the ſtrongeſt Influence of the Precepts
of the Goſpel.
In Fact, thofe Indians with whom this Society
has had the longeſt Correfpondence, and the
moft Influence, have been found the moſt faith-
T
ful
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
13
!
ful of all the Tribes, and the moſt ſteady Friends
to this Country.
Here then is a large Field for our Chriſtian
Charity.
Let us confider the Moral and Religious State
of our ſeveral Colonies-How they have taken
their Tincture and Colour from the different.
Plans upon which they were formed, and the
different Circumſtances which attended their firſt
Settlement, and the Progreſs of their Confti-
ftution.
You will find fome, compofed of Perſons fly-
ing from the unhappy Diffenfions that afflicted
this Country.
Others, drove into Corners of the Continent,
by the Intolerance of thoſe, who had fled from
the fame Spirit of Intolerance here.
Some, unhappily conſtituted upon the Tenets
of that Religion, from which we were delivered
at our Reformation.
Others, for want of proper Inſtruction, deſert-
ing, and falling off from the Purity of that
Faith, into which they were firſt admitted.
Confider the Swarms of Mifcreants, and Va-
grants, whom the Law has fent into many Parts
of theſe Colonies, and the Number of Slaves,
who are every Year imported into them.
ل محمد
Confider
{
14
A SERMON before the Society
Confider further-The Slownefs with which
Civil Society has been cultivated among fome,
and the untractable Spirit with which it has been
refifted among others.
Thefe Circumftances fo combined, attended
with fuch Difficulty, call upon us to uſe our ut
moſt Endeavours, to lay before thefe our Fellow
Subjects, the Precepts, and Promiſes of Chrifti-
anity, without Partiality and without. Hypocrify.
To calm the Spirit of Religious Diffenfions,
to cultivate the pure Gofpel, free from Superfti-.
tion, and Enthufiafm, and to guard the Souls of
Men against the Contagion of Infidelity, which
is fowing its Seeds, even in thofe diftant Parts,
with an Activity and Affiduity which would do
Honour to the Propagators of the pure Goſpel of
Chrift.
Thefe are great, Obftacles, But whatever
Difficulties may arife, we ought not to be dif
couraged.
`Let us look up to Thofe who have gone before
uş
us in this great Work.
Let us look up to the firft Followers, of our
Lord, who were ready to impart, even their own
Souls, for the Salvation of others, and who fealed
their Confeffion with their Blood.
* Jam, iii 17.
Look
$
for the Propagation of the Gofpel.
15
#
1
Look up to the Example of St. Paul, who was
particularly commiffioned by our Lord to the
Gentiles, * To open their Eyes, and to turn them
from Darkness to Light, and from the Power of
Satan unto God; that they might receive Forgive-
nefs of Sins, and Inheritance among them that are
fanctified.
,
In the Execution of this Commiffion, how af-
fectionate was his Zéal, how unwearied his In-
duſtry, how undaunted his Courage, and how
active his Application to the various Tempers
and Diſpoſitions of Men, that by any Means, he
might be the Inftrument of Salvation to fome.
Recollect his Anxiety, his Solicitude in the
Exerciſe of his Miniſtry,- in the Care of all thể
Churches, neither Oppofition, nor Reproach,
nior Impriſonment, difcouraged him from his
Labours for the Souls of Men.
But let us always bear in Mind that Inſtruction'
of the fame Apoſtle, that we preach no other
Doctrine, than that which Chriſt, and his Apof-
tles have preached.
Let no Confideration whatever make us depart
from the genuine Truths of the Gofpel, and ufe
the deceitful Words of Man's Wifdom, to infnare
the Weak, and the Ignorant.
* Acts xxvi. 18.
We
16
A SERMON before the Society
1
}
We know the Sentence of our Lord againſt
thoſe who ſhut up the Kingdom of Heaven against
Men, and neither go in themſelves, nor fuffer them
that are entering to 80 in.
!
Let us lay before thefe Ignorant, and unin-
formed Souls, the Oracles of Divine Wiſdom,
‡ which will make them wife unto Salvation through
Faith which is in Chrift Jefus, and guide them
with a faithful Hand into the Paths of Peace.
Theſe are Duties which the Voice of Reaſon,
and Revelation; the Example, and Injunctions of
our Saviour; the Lives, and the Deaths of his
Apoſtles; the Relation which we ftand in to
thoſe who are Partakers of the fame Nature, and
created in the fame Image of God; the public
Good, every Maxim of Policy, every generous
and compaffionate Sentiment, equally call upon
us to fulfill, and to concur in carrying on and
promoting this good Work.
The whole Series of Prophecy that foretold
our Saviour's coming, foretold the Extent of his
Kingdom; and the Prophecies will All have
their Accompliſhment. -
Is it a little Thing that we are told by the
God of Truth, + That the Kingdoms of the World
Shall become the Kingdoms of the Lord and his
Chriſt?
t
*Mat. xxiii. 13. 2 Tim. iii. 15.
+ Rev. xi. 15.
f
}
How
1
1
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
17
How ſhall we underſtand thoſe great, and full
Expreffions in various Parts of Scripture, con-
cerning the Power, and Eſtabliſhment, and En-
largement of Chrift's Kingdom?
The quick and aftoniſhing Progrefs made by
the Apoſtles, and their Followers, in the firſt
planting Chriſtianity, may in fome Meaſure an-
fwer theſe Predictions.
But are not many great and powerful King-
doms of the Eaft, and a ſtill larger Tract of the
new. diſcovered World, as yet unenlightened?
. Has not Mahometanifm gained many Coun-
tries from Chriftianity, which Chriftianity had
before gained from Paganiſm? Are not many
Parts of Afia, and Africa, where there were, in
the first Ages of Chriftianity, very flourishing
Churches, now defolate, or poffeffed by Pagans ?
In thoſe Parts of Europe, where Chriſtianity
has been reformed from its Errors, has its Pro-
greſs been equal to our Expectation ?
There remains then a fuller Completion, which
God will bring about in His good Time. We
know that it is His gracious Purpoſe that the
Kingdom of Chrift fhall prevail; That it will
be manifefted to the whole World, and acknow-
lodged in it. But at what Time, and in what
Manner, His great Plan will be carried into Ex-
}
+
C
•
ecution,
18
A SERMON before the Society
ལ་
ecution, is among the fecret Things of God,
who alone, governs, and difpofes all Events.
The Ways of His Providence are carried on
by the Inftrumentality of human Agents; - it
therefore lies upon us to do our Part, according
to the Knowledge we have of our Duty; * and
to whomsoever much is given, of him ſhall be much
required.
We daily put up our Prayers to the Creator
of all Things, for the Preſervation and Increaſe
of pure Religion, and for the Accompliſhment
of His Kingdom. That His Way may be
known upon Earth, His faving Health among all
Nations. Can we be thought fincere in our
Prayers, if we add not our earneſt Endeavours
to propagate the Knowledge of Him, in that
fmall Part of the Earth, which is under our
Cognifance?
The moſt effectual Method of ſpreading the
Knowledge of the Gospel, is to recommend it
by our Example, and to fhew forth the Power
of its Frecepts, by the Influence which it has
upon our own Lives.
Let us fhew by this convincing Evidence,
that the Lord is our God, and we may fafely
rely upon his Promiſe, for that Happineſs, which
will be the Reward of our Obedience.
* Luke xii. 48. ↑ Mat. vi. 10. + Pfalm lxvii. 2.
But
for the Propagation of the Gospel.
19
But if we neglect this great Salvation, and live
as without God in the World, our own Vanities,
and Follies, our own Iniquities, and Corruptions,
by the natural Confequences of our Vices, and
by the juſt Judgment of God, will confpire to
deprive us of the Light of the Goſpel, of which
we are fo unworthy.
Our Unfruitfulneſs under the Means of Grace
may provoke God (as it has in other Inſtances)
to take theſe Bleffings from us, and to give them
to other Nations, that will bring forth the Fruits
of them.
C 2
An
፦
..
:
1