Page images
PDF
EPUB

thority is paramount and decisive, when clearly pronounced. But two questions arise here, which demand some notice.

(1) Whether every application of the Old Testament in the New is to be regarded as warranting it as an original and designed prophecy? I answer, by no means. For some are applications of general facts or principles to particular cases; some, of psasages to new events, on the grounds of resemblance to the original fact or circumstance, as men in all ages have quoted passages from authors as being somewhat similar to particular cases, persons, and events, though these were never intended by them. If we deny this, we shall involve ourselves in the most serious difficulties, and be obliged to have recourse to modes of interpretation that are not to be defended; while we deny to the New Testament writers the right to do what all other men do, without being pledged to say, that those passages so applied were real predictions.

(2) Is there a double sense of prophecy? I conceive the terin double sense to be very ill-chosen, and liable to be misunderstood. In particular the expression literal, and spiritual sense is very pernicious. The sense of the word of God is the one, true, genuine, and intended sense ;-the mind of the spirit; and, if we are at liberty to make a first, a second, a third, and a fourth sense, what will come of it? If we receive a letter from a friend, with what view do we read it? We endeavour to ascertain his real meaning, and it never enters into the mind to give to his words a second, third, or fourth sense.

But the most important thing to be noticed is, that Moses, Aaron, David, and other persons under the Hebrew dispensation, were constituted and designed types, likenesses, and anticipations of corresponding circumstances in the work of the Messiah. Hence, many descriptions and circumstances in the Old Testament, are applicable to the original persons only in a very partial manner, having their full meaning in the Divine Redeemer and his circumstances. Upon this principle we regard the Church of God in Israel, as being designed to represent the true Church of God under Christianity. Upon this ground we should make those applications which the principle warrants. But it is not a double sense; it is one and the same sense. In consequence of the original design, it is applied to two subjects; to the first partially, and to the second fully and completely. The former was the

temporary representative of the latter. Twelfthly. WE OUGHT NOT EXPECT to

DERIVE FROM THE STUDY OF PROPHECY AN ABILITY TO PREDICT SPECIFIC EVENTS.

Our text asserts this; prophecy unfulfiled is but a glimmering light shining in a dark forest. But when the day dawnswhen the fulfilment has taken place, and the event explains the prophecy, then we have the illumination which we shall in vain expect without it. A degree of obscurity is the necessary accompaniment of every prophecy until fulfiled. This should induce us to the exercise of reverence and caution in study. If the prophetic descriptions were of that plain and literal kind which enabled an expositor to predict the specific event, the impartiality and dignity of the Divine declaration would be much impaired, and opportunity afforded to men to form plans to accomplish the prophecy, or to counteract it. For these reasons, all theories of prophetic interpretation, with regard to things future, are extremely and necessarily precarious, and probably false. All that the Author of prophecy has left in our power, is to perceive through the necessary obscurity of the predictions, some very general view of his dispensations in the states and conditions of men;-as it was under the Old Testament of the New Testament dispensation. The prediction that Elijah should come, could not be explained till the event occurred; the prophecy of the throne of David being restored, and the religion of the Hebrews being spread throughout the earth, could not be understood till the event shewed it.

The consideration of this subject suggests some reflections, to two or three of which I will briefly advert.

1. Is it not much to be lamented, that any persons should undertake the difficult task of interpreting prophecy, who have taken no pains to supply themselves with the requisite aids?

2. To my mind it appears clear, that it cannot be the immediate duty of all Christians to engage in these studies and enquiries, for this reason, that it cannot be the duty of any persons to do that for which God has not given them the opportunities or the

means.

But the majority of Christians cannot command the time, nor employ the materials for investigations of this nature. It is the duty of those to whom God has given the opportunities and the means; and it lies upon them to pursue it, taking care that it does not occupy their minds when higher claims present them

pur

selves. "Knowledge puffeth up," if sued to gratify curiosity, or the love of show; if it be not combined with a holy, humble, and devout state of mind and action. We may know all mysteries, and have all knowledge; but if we have not charity we are nothing. 'Behold, I shew unto you a more excellent way." Let us grow in the knowledge of Christ; become more deeply acquainted with fulfilled prophecy, respecting his person, and work, and salvation; with the contents of the New Testament, and have our hearts enlarged with the spiritual, holy, humble, active principles of faith and piety. This is incomparably more great and glorious than the diligent study of unfulfilled prophecy, or a correct acquaintance with the principles on which it should be interpreted. Let not Christians, then, make themselves uneasy that they cannot study these things to their own satisfaction; the gospel shews them a more excellent way.

3. If we, for any purpose, pursue such objects, even with the best means we can command, with a competent knowledge of the events, and a judicious application of rules and principles, and allow this to supersede the humble and holy application of our faculties to the grand purposes of the Gospel ministry; although we may succeed, perhaps, and elucidate dark passages, and gratify curiosity, yet, what will be the result to ourselves, and the Church? "Whoso is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein." Hosea xiv. 9.

ESSAY

ON THE STATE OF RELIGION IN THE WORLD.

"Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall ibe increased."-Daniel.

No. I.-INTRODUCTORY. LORD BACON, in his Advancement of Learning, says, that "History ecclesiastical, receiveth the same divisions with history civil: but further, in the propriety thereof, may be divided into the History of the church, by a general name; History of prophecy; and History of providence. The first describeth the times of the militant church,' whether it be fluctuant, as the ark of Noah; or moveable, as the ark in the wilderness; or at rest, as the ark in the temple: that is the

state of the church in persecution, in remove, and in peace. This part I ought in no sort to note as deficient, only I would, that the virtue and sincerity of it were according to the mass and quantity."

We perfectly agree with Lord Bacon, that what is called Ecclesiastical History is much greater in quantity than in sincerity; but we are compelled, with reluctance, to differ from him as to his conclusion, that there is no deficiency in it. We believe from a survey of Church historians in every age, (always excepting the inspired writings) that there is scarcely any thing bearing the title of history, which is worthy of serious attention or consideration. They are all deficient in that, which in the estimation of the Christian world, alone constitute their true excellence: viz. an impartial and vivid account of the moral effects produced by the diffusion of religion, and an actual history of the true church as it has existed in all preceding times. We want not so much to hear of the rise, progress, and fall of this or that sect, or of the various corruptions and glosses which have disfigured religion, and given rise to fierce contentions to bloody persecutions, and unholy alliances, as of the number of those who have embraced the truth, and "walked with God."

We think there is ample room for a new history of the church, upon a new plan, and written in philosophic style. A mind of large capacities, able to take in at a glance the various bearings of a subject, and deeply imbued with the true principles of christianity, might be profitably employed upon such a work. The materials, although scattered over many volumes, concealed in many languages, and difficult perhaps to obtain, are yet ample, and within the reach of a diligent student. Such a work we venture to predict, would be eagerly read and highly prized. It would tend to vindicate "the ways of God to man,” to cheer the hopes of the church, to remove the false impressions which men of learning and science entertain against religion, and to afford fresh motives for renewed exertions in the promotion of "every good and perfect work.' By it

we should be enabled to observe the true nature of the "church militant,” its extent, its influence in the formation of character, in the development of truth, in the preservation of nations, and in bringing down from heaven, blessings on the children of men. We should learn,

It

that although it had been persecuted, yet it had never been destroyed; although often cast down, yet never forsaken; although many times obscured, yet that it has never been fully concealed. would afford fresh grounds for gratitude to God, by proving that he has always had a people to serve him, neither contemptible in numbers, nor deficient in zeal, nor talents.

Such, however, is now the aspect of society, that we do think that which past ages has not supplied, will be performed in the present. Every thing around us is progressing towards a more complete understanding of human and divine knowledge; and we live (to borrow the words of an eloquent writer) in an age in which the various forms of intellect are developed and flourish; and that general mind is about to disclose itself, which will embrace, cherish, and reunite all into one limitless, and all pervading spirit of intelligence.

But until such a history as we have spoken of shall appear, it is our design, in some measure, to supply its place, by brief notices of the present actual state of religion, both at home and abroad: and in so doing, it will be our delight to point out the various success which has attended the labours of the faithful missionary, in all parts of the world. We shall, from time to time, select such places as have been the scene of missionary enterprise, and by presenting a short sketch of the character and morals of the people before the introduction of religion, endeavour to ascertain what has been the legitimate influence of divine truth, in improving the morals, in refining the character, in aiding the civilization, and advancing the present and future happiness of mankind.

Nor do we think this task either a useless or an uninteresting one. It will afford a decisive answer to the objections of two very different classes of men, against the utility of missionary labours. The first is the infidel, who says, the Christian religion "is only a reversion-that a man must die to enjoy the good which it has to impart; that it neglects the body, in the care of the soul, and the life that now is, in that which is to come." This we shall disprove, by shewing that not only is the Christian religion a prospective religion, but that in keeping its commandments there is a present reward. We shall shew that wherever its influence has extended, men have been suddenly reclaimed from a state of barbarism, and

the

made partakers of the conveniences and comforts of civilized society. The second class of objectors are christians, who believe that the Divine influence will supersede necessity for all human exertion: they therefore withdraw from our societies, and stand aloof when solicited to contribute their aid towards sending the gospel to the heathen. But if we can demonstrate, as far as moral certainty can satisfy, that only one soul has been saved by the instrumentality of all the labours which have been expended upon the heathen world; then we say that the has been scattered, the enterprises underwhich money taken, the prayers offered up, have not been in vain. For what shall it profit a man, if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? We are not, however, left to a solitary gleam of hope. Testimonies (and that of the most unexceptionable and respectable nature) pour in upon us; all affording solid reasons for our belief, that not one soul only, but many thousands, have been saved everlastingly, by the labours of missionaries. So that there is much in the past upon which we can dwell with complacency, and much in the aspect of the present and future prospects of the church, which excites glorious hopes that the time is rapidly approaching, when the kingdoms of this world shall become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ, and where he shall reign for ever and

ever!

Our task cannot be uninteresting. Apart from its novelty, there is much to recommend it to the favourable notice of every devout mind. We live in an extraordinary age; "the signs of the times" evidently predict the fulfilment of some mighty event, and it therefore becomes Christians to have their minds well informed upon all subjects connected with the prosperity of the church. If God has honoured the labours of his missionary servants in the salvation of souls, surely a narrative of those labours must be read with pleasure. If it be not given us to know the times and the seasons, surely it becomes us to watch the progress of society, to compare the passing events with the sacred word of prophecy, and humbly endeavour to ascertain whether or not "the time is at hand."

Independently, however, of these considerations, others press upon us. There is a great struggle going on between light and darkness. The efforts which are made

(and which are entitled to all praise) to diffuse the principles of scientific and political knowledge, ought to be met by corresponding efforts to extend divine truth. If mechanic's institutions, and book societies, and school-masters are spreading their influence, religion and its claims should likewise be made known, the Bible and its contents unfolded to the people, and divine should precede, or at least accompany, the universal diffusion of human knowledge. That this has been in some degree accomplished, we acknowledge. The institution of Sunday and Catecthetical schools, the multiplication of places of worship, the increase of devout and holy ministers, both in and out of the establishment, and the almost complete organization of the people into general, auxiliary, and district societies, for the circulation of the Bible, the support of missions, the diffusion of tracts, and other "labours of love," effectually prove that a new spirit is at work in the world which will subdue all things to itself. Nor is this all. England as well as America, India, with her million hordes, as well as the South Sea Islands, are waiting for the outpouring of the Spirit from on high, and for the communication of heavenly blessings.

"Ac

cording to the sure word of prophecy, (says Mr. Douglas) allowing for the variety of interpretations, before the oak, which was planted yesterday, shall have reached its full maturity, the whole earth shall have become the garden of the Lord." The fullness of the Gentiles, in every sense, is at hand. The earth will soon be full of people, and full of knowledge; the desert is beginning to bloom, and the darkness to disperse, and the minds of men are ripening for, and expectant of, the greatest change which has as yet passed over the earth. Numbers are ready to join in the sublime supplication of Milton

"Come, therefore, O thou that hast the seven stars in thy right hand, appoint thy chosen priests according to their orders and courses of old, to minister before thee, and duly to dress and pour out the consecrated oil into thy holy and ever burning lamps! Thou has sent out the spirit of prayer upon thy servants, over all the earth, to this effect, and stirred up their vows as the sound of many waters about thy throne. Every one can say, that now thou hast certainly visited this land, and hast not forgotten the utmost courses of the

earth, in a time when men had thought, that thou wast gone up from us to the farthest end of the heavens, and hadst left us to do marvellously among the sons of these last ages. O, perfect and accomplish thy glorious acts; for men may leave their works unfinished, but thou art God; thy nature is perfection. The times and seasons pass along under thy feet, to go and come at thy bidding; and as thou didst dignify our fathers' days with many revelations, above all foregoing ages since thou tookest the flesh, so thou canst vouchsafe to us, though unworthy, as large a portion of thy Spirit as thou pleasest; for who shall prejudice thy all governing will? Seeing the power of thy grace is not passed away with the primitive times, as fond and faithless men imagine, but thy kingdom is now at hand, and thou standing at the door. Come forth out of thy royal chambers, O Prince of all the Kings of the earth, put on the visible robes of thy imperial majesty, take up that unlimited sceptre which thy Almighty Father hath bequeathed thee; for now the voice of thy bride calls thee, and all creatures sigh to be renewed!"

We have great pleasure in informing our readers, that the office of Pastor to the Tabernacle and Tottenham Court Chapel congregations, is filled up by the appointment of MR. CAMPBELL, late of KILMARNOCK, whose unaffected piety, sound judgment, and fervent zeal, eminently qualify him for this distinguished situation in the religious world. Having heard this Gentleman preach several times, we feel ourselves justified in saying,' that a more judicious choice could not have been made. His preaching exhibits the faithfulness and animation of his predecessor, John Hyatt, with a greater degree of intellectual culture, than fell to the portion of that justly lamented Minister.

Our attention has been directed to an article in a contemporary publication, relative to the contents of our third number, and which some of our readers think we should notice in terms of severity. But this is unnecessary, for we are clearly satisfied that no person can compare it with the article to which it refers, and not see that he is convicted of uttering that which is untrue. We have no space to devote to such matters, should the success which has crowned our efforts induce our contemporary to secure the assistance of persons capable of rendering his publication worthy the object he proposes, none will rejoice more sincerely

than ourselves.

Published by COWIE & STRANGE, Paternoster Row; (Where Communications may be addressed to the Editor, post paid.) Sold by all Booksellers throughout the Kingdom,--Printed by W. Buck, 12, Mansell Street, Goodman's Fields.

"

No. 6.]

THE

CHRISTIAN RECORDER;

A RELIGIOUS AND LITERARY JOURNAL,

AS EVERY MAN HATH RECEIVED THE GIFT, SO MINISTER THE SAME ONE TO ANOTHER."

THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 1829.

A SERMON,

[PRICE 3d.

PREACHED BY THE REV. J. CLAYTON, A.M., AT THE POULTRY CHAPEL, MARCH 1, 1829.

[ocr errors]

There are three preliminary inferences, therefore, which we draw from this fact. 1st. That as the epistle before us is the testimony of a dying man, or of one approaching near to his dissolution, we may suppose that the subjects which he would discuss would be of solemn weight and importance, and, therefore, they challenge our most serious consideration.

Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”—2 Tıм. iii. 5. It is quite evident, my dear hearers, that accomplish the very opposite to that St. Paul penned this epistle when he was which it had in view. Although zealous a prisoner at Rome: and it was one of Christians have been incarcerated, yet, the last of those valuable and inspired in their cells and in their dungeons they letters that he composed; for he tells us have poured out their mighty prayers to plainly, that he was "ready to be of- God, at which even princes and princesses fered up, and the time of his departure have trembled. They have left valuable was at hand." letters, not a few of which are extant, even at the present time, that tend to confirm believers in the faith and comfort and hopes of the gospel. Persecution has also often tended to disperse the flock of Jesus Christ, but scattered as they have been in various directions, and travelling in their involuntary journies as they have been compelled, they have carried the Word of God to distant parts, which otherwise it might never have reached. Thus persecution, like a violent wind, which has swept over the garden of beautiful and fragrant flowers, has sent a rich perfume to a considerable distance, and conveyed their precious seeds to a remote distance, and there they have sprung up and brought forth the fruits of righteousness, which, by Jesus Christ, have been to the praise and the glory of God.

2nd. As Saint Paul here speaks in language of strong confidence, and as such, gives several charges to Timothy to adhere closely to the gospel of JESUS CHRIST, he felt no misgiving in his latter days or moments as to the excellency of the gospel, and no apprehensions as to the success of the great and glorious cause in which he was embarked.

3rd. Observe that we are encouraged by the statement of facts, which I have just now mentioned, to believe that the Word of GOD shall not be bound, it shall never be subjected in its true course to suffer loss from human restriction, and never be ULTIMATELY suppressed by the wrath of man.

You may, if you please imprison, and fine, and subject to the tortures and pain of martyrdom, those who are the faithful servants of Christ Jesus, but you will invariably observe, if you consult history, whether sacred or profane, that all persecution whatever, which falls short of utter extermination, only defeats its own ends. Yes, I repeat it-in many remarkable instances we have seen persecution

VOL. I.

The exhortations and charges which are conveyed in this and the preceding chapter, were primarily addressed to Timothy, who was a young minister, to whom Paul was affectionately attached, and for whose. steadfastness and usefulness he ardently longed; but let us not forget, that with this exception, the principles which relate to official functions, official character, and official responsibility, and the various exhortations which are applied to Timothy, are applicable alike to other professors of the gospel of Christ. For whether we move in a public or a private life we are all exposed to similar snares, difficulties,

« PreviousContinue »