Page:The Works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A. (1771 Vol 1).djvu/448

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no longer so tossed about as you have been in times past. I find many talk and boast of rest, of which I fear they have not yet got a feeling possession. There is as much difference between these two, as between a shadow and the substance. Far be it from me, to think thus of you, my dear brother. No, I believe our Saviour has really loved and washed you in his blood, and redeemed you unto God, that you might be a king and priest, and reign upon the earth. There is plenteous redemption in the blood of Jesus. He came, not only that we might have life, but that we might have it more abundantly. He that believeth on Jesus, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. They that believe enter into rest. O glorious redemption! O glorious liberty of the children of God! Blessed are they who have not seen, and yet have believed; they, who having not seen, yet have loved Jesus, and do rejoice with joy unspeakable, even with joy that is full of glory. Blessed be God, that you feel more of this than you did a twelvemonth ago. In a year's time, you will be ashamed to think what a dwarf you are now. A believer is to pass from glory to glory. It is ignorance and pride that makes us think we have already attained. The more we are acquainted with Jesus, the more we shall be acquainted with our own hearts, and grow more truly poor in spirit every day. Indeed, my dear brother, I am a thousand times happier than when you saw me. Jesus hath saved me from many corruptions, and is every day transforming me more and more into his own likeness. I cannot rest, unless I feel a sensible growth in my soul, and find that I get more of the true artless simplicity that was in Jesus. Blessed be God for that fulness which is in Christ, out of which we are all to receive grace for grace. Many, many souls have lately been drawing out of this fulness. I am amazed at his love to me! O free grace! O sovereign, distinguishing, unmerited love!—I think you did well in receiving some particular persons into your house. "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers," says the Apostle. I cannot think it is right, to be so far carried away with an orthodox scheme, as to neglect acts of love to the members of Christ's body. Give me leave, my dear brother, to behave with all meekness toward those, who may not be so well affected toward such whom you love. If you do not take care, and