CHAPTER I.

THOUGHTS ON PROBATION.

ROBATION is a peculiarity of Methodism, yet other

by examining committees, and by other means they seek to test the fitness of candidates for church membership. The period of probation with us is "at least six months." This time may be extended by the probationer or the church, if thought wise.

CONDITION OF PROBATION.

There is but one condition required by our rules for admission on probation, namely, "a desire to flee from the wrath to come and to be saved from their sins." This welcomes every sincere soul, however young or weak. A "desire" opens the door. Probation, however, is open enlistment in Christ's army. It should be considered a real commitment of the individual to His service for lite. Pastors ought not to intimate that probationers need not feel obliged to become full members. While they are no. obligated to join the Methodist Church the above suggestion belittles or robs of its significance this important step. It makes the act one of weakness and irresolution Instead of strength and purpose. Rather impress them that having put their hands to the plow they must never

'look back." To make this step impressive it should be invested with the solemnity of a

PUBLIC RECEPTION.

Of course there will be exceptions, owing to sickness, infirmity, and other valid causes, where persons are willing, but unable, to be present. The probation of such should be publicly announced, with reasons justifying the absence. Pandering to the pride, or half-heartedness, or even timidity of those who would be "secret" disciples, is unwise. It injures the probationer by consenting to his avoiding the "cross." It savors of being ashamed to confess openly his desire to be a Christian. Frequently persons have said to the writer that they would join on probation if they could do so privately Invariably they were told that this could not be allowed, since Christ permitted no private disciples. He commands all-" Confess me before men." This is the surest way to make loyal and faithful followers.

PRIVILEGES AND LIMITS.

The probationer is entitled to all the means of grace in the Church-to baptism, the love feast, and the Lord's Supper. He may be a class leader or Sunday school superintendent, though without a seat in the Quarterly Conference; but he cannot be licensed to preach, nor bring charges against a full member of our Church, nor become a steward in the same. The probationer cannot be tried and expelled like a full member, but, if found unworthy, his name is simply dropped from the list of probationers.

DUTIES.

To begin right is half the battle. Right habits make victory easy. Daily thoughtful study of the Bible and

much secret prayer are the greatest duties and yield the richest benefits. To neglect these means death. Where these things are faithfully attended to there will be a hunger for the preaching of the word, the prayer meeting and the class meeting. All these are wells of salvation. The probationer should also begin at once to take part in these meetings. The right habit formed at the start wil make participation in such duties through life unburdensome and rich in blessing and usefulness.

CHAPTER IL

COUNSEL TO CONVERTS

OU have entered on a new life. Suffer a few words

passed this way before.

This Companion may prove a guide and friend. It at least reaches you a sympathetic hand. Let us together study the life you are to pursue, with suggestions of help, and the Church you are expecting to join.

TO BE A GENUINE CHRISTIAN

is the greatest achievement in l. This is doubtless your aim. Divine help, daily, is indispensable. Without God you will surely fail. With his constart aid you will certainly overcome and be crowned. He has provided wisdom to guide, grace to strengther, and help in every time of need. What you are in holy character is your unfading crown. Resolve to be genuine-gold without alloy. It is not so much to get to heaven as to be heavenlyminded now. After a true Christian life here there is no place but heaven for you hereafter. Be not anxious about heaven, but only to be Christlike in daily life. Determine to begin, continue, and close your journey in sweet, intimate fellowship with Christ. To this end

STUDY GOD'S WORD DAily.

This is the only guidebook to heaven and the best handbook on the journey. It is meat for your soul. It is the wisdom of God speaking to you. Not merely read, but study the Bible; meditate in it. Hide it in your heart.