Page:The Works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A. (1771 Vol 1).djvu/180

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page needs to be proofread.

commissary of Philadelphia, having got a little stronger party than when I was there last, has thrown off the mask, denied me the pulpit, and last Sunday preached up an historical faith, and justification by works. But people only flock the more to me. The power of God is more visible than ever in our assemblies; and more than ever before are convinced that I preach the doctrine of Jesus Christ. Some few bigotted self-righteous Quakers also, now begin to spit out a little of the serpent: they cannot bear the doctrine of original sin, or of imputed righteousness as the cause of our acceptance with God. One calls original sin "original nonsense;" and several have been to me, under the apprehension of being thrust out, for owning and confessing what I take to be the truth as it is in Jesus. God has now brought me to New Brunswick, where I am blessed with the conversation of Mr. G—— T——. Indeed he is a good soldier of Jesus Christ, and God is pleased in a wonderful manner to own both him and his brethren. The congregations where they have preached have been surprizingly convicted and melted down. They are unwearied in doing good, and go out into the highways and hedges to compel poor sinners to come in. Yesterday also I heard of two ministers in Long Island, near New-York, who had large communications from God, and have been instrumental in bringing many souls to Christ. I could add more; but I must away: the people are waiting for a spiritual meal. They fly to the doctrine as doves to the windows, and I trust the Lord is now reviving his work in the midst of the years. With great difficulty I have redeemed time to send you these few lines. I hope you and the rest of my dear friends continue to pray for me: for I believe never was so weak a wretch sent on such an important errand. But when I am weak, then am I strong. My bodily strength, by frequent journeying and continued speaking, sometimes fails me; but the Lord quickens and strengthens me by his mighty power. The more I am opposed, the more joy I feel; and the first fruits of God's spirit, which he hath imparted to my soul, are so sweet, that I almost with impatience wait till I reap a full harvest in the fruition of my God. Continue, I beseech you, to intercede