Page:The Works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A. (1771 Vol 1).djvu/141

 truths of christianity. I bless, his spirit has convinced me of our eternal election by the Father through the Son, of our free justification through faith in his blood, of our sanctification as the consequence of that, and of our final perseverance and glorification as the result of all. These I am persuaded has joined together; these, neither men nor devils shall ever be able to put asunder. My only scruple at present is, "Whether you approve of taking the sword in defence of your religious rights?" One of our English bishops I remember, when I was with him, called you Cameronians. They, I think, took up arms, which I think to be contrary to the spirit of and his apostles. Some few passages in your sermon before the presbytery, I thought were a little suspicious of favouring that principle. I pray your next may inform me that I am mistaken: For when zeal carries us to such a length, I think it ceases to be zeal according to knowledge. Dearest Sir, be not angry at my writing thus freely. I love, I honour you in the bowels, and for the sake of, from my soul. I wish you good luck in all your pious undertakings. I pray to prosper the works of your hands, and to make you a noble instrument in bringing many sons to glory. Pray send an immediate answer, directed as usual, and care will be taken to have it remitted to, reverend and dear Sir,

Your most affectionate brother, friend, fellow-labourer, and obliged servant, G. W.

LETTER CXXXIX.

Dear Brother,     Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739.

IT is much upon my heart to send you a line. Although you are not with me, yet as was pleased to touch you by my unworthy ministry, I love you with a peculiar love. Business prevented my writing to you when in Yorkshire. I was sorry to hear that Brother J had reason to blame your conduct. My dear brother, be not offended, if in the meekness and gentleness of, I exhort you to be sober-*minded. Follow after, but do not run before the blessed Spirit; if you do, although you may benefit others, and may