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Rh 3. The system of preaching days has put the Lord’s Supper out of its proper place, in the affections of the Lord’s people.

These preaching-days have now been so long, and so closely appended to it, that they are viewed as an essential part of it: so much so, that to propose to lay them aside, would, in the esteem even of serious Christians, be nearly as bad as giving up the Lord’s Supper. In fact, it is not eating the Lord’s Supper, but the preaching-days, that in the estimation of the bulk of Christians constitute the Sacrament! It is these that constitute its main importance— its principal charm; hence appropriately enough called the preachings. Strip it of these external decorations— exhibit it in its native and primitive simplicity— introduce it as a part of the public worship of every Lord’s day, and it will require no little training, to bring the minds of many Christians in this country, to view it without contempt Such is the baneful influence of attempting to improve on the plans of Divine wisdom, and of adding to the institutions of the Lord! Besides, the false and fearful solemnity thrown over the Lord’s Supper by these unscriptural appendages, contributes greatly to mar the peace and destroy the confidence of serious Christians in this delightful service. In place of eating the Lord’s Supper with the confidence and freedom of children placed around their heavenly Father’s board, they frequently approach with fear and trembling, their minds are possessed with fearful apprehensions of displeasing him, and so incurring his wrath; and their service is thus of enjoyment, and their worship is often attended with a spirit of bondage unto fear,’ unsuitable to their character, displeasing to God, and not a little distressing to their own minds. Now, with such apprehensions, and feelings, and views, the Lord’s Supper cannot be approached with delight,