a pure conscience." The profoundest mysteries as well as the plainest truths are to be held fast; for, while of equal authority, they are connected with the most important doctrines, the richest promises, and the most sacred duties. They are, as Baxter justly observes, essential to the very marrow of the gospel. In submission to God's will, in obedience to his word, we must retain the whole truth. Nothing must be added, nothing diminished-the whole testimony of God in his holy word must be embraced, and held fast until death. To this end guard against a spirit of speculation and pride, "and be not wise in your own conceit." Be admonished by the fearful example of others around you. Have no fellowship with them. Mingle not with their assemblies, and peruse not their writings. They are pestilential, there is a moral poison in them. It is the highest authority that has declared "He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: for he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds."-2 John ii. Cherish a deep reverence for the holy scriptures, diligently and prayerfully search them, and practically conform to their requirements. Observe, too, the mystery of the faith must be held in A PURE CONSCIENCE. The learned Grotius, with his usual force and propriety, remarks-" It is by a pure conscience that faith is guarded; for those who neglect the one commonly lose the other. There must be simplicity and sincerity of mind, and while you zealously and tenaciously hold fast the great doctrines of religion, take care to fulfill all its duties and obligations, adorning the truth by the lustre of a holy life. On the one hand, the conscience must be purified by faith, by faith in the atoning blood, and on the other, the faith must be strengthened and confirmed by a conscientious deportment. Obedience must thus work with our faith, and by good works our faith be made perfect. Sincerity and obedience promote clearness of spiritual vision, and establish oursouls in the truth. For, says the Saviour, if any man will do my Father's will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God. Wherfor beloved brethren, "Cast not away your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward, but hold fast the profession of your faith without wavering, and earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the saints. Then shall you find that the great principles you now retain will sustain you in the article of death, filling you with consolation and triumph, and enabling you to exclaim, I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day and not 40 me only, but to all them that love his appearing." r puram conscientiam custoditur et Fides. Nam qui hanc negliolent et illam amittere. Grotius in loco. THE DISCOURSE ON THE PROVINCE OF REASON contains a few illustrations not given at the time of its delivery. NOTICE. The Author contemplates publishing a Series of Tracts on Christian Theology, with a view to neutralize the influence of certain heretical opinions lately revived and extensively propagated; to establish believers in the great doctrines of the christian religion, and to promote the advancement of experimental and practical holiness. While the Author purposes, by Divine aid, to put forth his best energies to render the forthcoming Tracts profitable to his readers, he is satisfied that the extent of the good he seeks to accomplish must depend in a great degree upon the cooperation of friends, in promoting their circulation. That cooperation he most respectfully and earnestly solicits. In a few weeks a Tract may be expected on the Inspiration and Authenticity of the Holy Scriptures, with a special defence in reference to several sacred books, the authority of which has lately been impugned. The price will be at the rate of two-pence for twenty-four pages, closely printed, on good paper; forming a volume of 360 pages for two shillings and sixpence. THE USUAL ALLO WANCE TO THE TRADE. Orders will be received by the Rev. J. Bakewell, 80, Newgate Street, London, the Ministers in the Connexion, and Booksellers in general throughout the kingdom. The Author requests that orders may be transmitted to him as soon as convenient. OTHER WORKS BY THE SAME AUTHOR. CHRIST'S UNIVERSAL REIGN. A Sermon. Sixpence. COURSE OF STUDY, adapted for Junior Ministers and Local Preachers. Sixpence. TOTAL ABSTINENCE PURIFIED FROM UNSOUND AND DANGEROUS OPINIONS, and placed upon a rational and Scriptural Foundation. Sixpence. THE DOCTRINES OF ELECTION AND REPROBATION CONSIDERED. Sixpence. ***Only a few copies of the above works remain on hand. J. BLACKWELL AND CO., PRINTERS, NEWCASTLE. JOHN BAKEWELL, METHODIST NEW CONNEXION BOOK MAY BE HAD FROM THE WESLEYAN ASSOCIATION BOOK ROOM, LONDON; FROM BOOKSELLERS THROUGHOUT THE |