Page:The Works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A. (1771 Vol 1).djvu/379

 take up with the shadow, instead of the substance. forbid that I, or dear Mr. B, should be of that unhappy number. Dear Sir, there is an unspeakable fulness, unsearchable riches in. Out of him we are to receive grace for grace. Every grace that was in the Redeemer, is to be transcribed and copied into our hearts. This is Christianity; and without this, though we could dispute with the utmost clearness, and talk like angels, of the doctrines of grace, it would profit us nothing. To prevent the growth of this inward life, I am persuaded satan introduces heresies in the church, hoping thereby to stir up strife, envy, prejudice, and narrowness of spirit; and where these are, there will be every evil work. To this end, sinless perfection hath been propagated in England, and Antinomian principles suffered to be spread among you. But, blessed be, both in England, and with you, I trust disputations and distractions are abated, and love and unity once more are lifting up their heads. This, at present, is the language of my heart:

Let us find out the ancient way, Our wond'ring foes to move; And force the heathen world to say, See how these Christians love.

"Love is of ; and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in ." I am glad you are erecting a society to promote this love. Fear not the smallness of your beginning. What is begun in the fear of, he will prosper. I believe them to be true followers of ; and though we agree not in all things, yet I pray to make us one in heart. Now, dear Mr. B, what shall I say more. The blessed has been superabundantly good to my soul since my arrival. I have been carried, though through much weakness, as on eagles wings. In England, Wales, and Scotland, hath blessed my poor labours more than ever. The calls to divers places, are loud and importunate; and, as has raised up many labourers among you, I think it my duty to stay here some time longer, and to visit Scotland once more. However, my friends abroad are continually upon my heart. I pray for you night and day. May the fill you with all his fulness! I desire to be remem