Bunting, Jahez. Grea t Wor! esecri hed ad Re om ded co) wea U WOrK JL Gc j ar} e Y ermon ‘ ae or 6 art nec : oie ImenG ec 9 vermon Div.Sch. BV 1525 .B868 1819 ‘\ ¥ \ \ Pig's \ Y] Ln i \ ‘ MS : is | | / \ ’ J yr Fag } ‘ \ Wea be < \ { \\ ri , ms ni! : iy: 1 y (ap * ) y\ 4 by mi ( AD ) ! wy < f we j \ \ ous } rit} Pan. my vy \ ‘ Pa ( : ago e 4 ri ae May oth Shy Pay Rt : wer \ DUKE UNIVERSITY DIVINITY SCHOOL LIBRARY A , GREAT WORK as DESCRIBED AND RECOMMENDED, IN A SERMON, PREACHED ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 1805, AT THE Rer. Dz. WINTER’s MEETING HOUSE, Mek Court, Cavep Street, London, BEFORE THE MEMBERS OF THE SUNDAY SCHOOL UNION. By JABEZ BUNTING. = PUBLISHED BY REQUEST. wr tpoorrcrccce - THIRD EDITION. Toy wavrwy xaxwy aiTioY UN avaryivwoxel Bib Atay abuxns QAO LaKH. CHRYSOSTOM. Disciplina, custos spei, retinaculum fidei, dux itineris salutaris, fomes ac nutrimentum bone indolis, magistra virtutis. CYPRIAN. —_ Ie Li YP GIO RS LONDON: PUBLISHED BY W. KENT, 116, HIGH HOLBORN; Sold also by T. BLANCHARD, 14, Crry Roan; : ‘and T. HAMILTON, PaTEeRNosTER Row. 1819. => PRICE ONE SHILLING. [Warr, Printer, Red Lion Passage, Helborn.] ta nee ee ais 4 a ae s he, vt. a 7 , nd 7 ave r ; PRA OVS AAS QR ‘all ey eel 7 45 n f : } Tous VEEL peat _ + ie : oa | ea es hoy uw ae. - 3 = If thee a ’ Soh eT >t te ue ~ Y ae - 4 e r - ; bn : : ‘.ae sf " > ; . bs - ~ Pe bad ., *. e “ er , } r s ‘ 4 Ms as ¢ yn + oat, Oeor . i 2 ‘ . e vig, hy > ees a 2 sie : chy it tirrseves i O46 hu age ee ta dicten te + dele Ai {) ADVERTISEMEXE , Aalh Luts : al iy — ——s — - . a Tre SUNDAY SCHOOL UNION | consists of “ Teachers, and others, actually engaged in Protestant - Sunday Schools.” Their. religious sentiments and connexions are various. Some are members of the Established Church ; others belong to the several deno- minations of Evangelical Dissenters and Methodists. The objects of their association are, —* First, to stimu- « late and encourage each other in the religious i instruc- “tion of children and youth; secondly, by mutual “communication, to aim at improving each other's “ method of instruction ; aad thirdly, to promote ‘the. *¢ opening of new schools by their influence and personal « assistance, wherever it may be deemed expedient. A -“ Committee of Correspondence is also appointed to “ communicate with the Conductors of Schools in-the © Country, and to afford information to any who may “ be desirous of instituting Schools,” By the thirteenth rule of the Union, it is required; that an Annual Sermon shall be preached before the Members. Accordingly, the Rev. Mr, Burner deli- vered the first Anniversary Discourse at one of the Chapels of the Connexion (the late Rev. Mr. WEsLEy’s) to which the duthor has the honour to belong; and the following year he was requested to perform a similar office in the Rev: Mr. Thorp’s (now Dr. Winter’s) Meeting-house. With this request he was led to A3 Pootgy iv ADVERTISEMENT. comply by a conviction, that the religious instruction of the Rising Generation is an object of the first magnitude; that its importance is by no means suf- Jiciently felt, even by the Christian World; and that therefore no exertions, however feeble, which might possibly contribute to excite a more general and lively interest in favour of so good a cause, could be properly or innocently declined. The same views have also in- duced him, though not without much diffidence, to print his Sermon ; especially as its publication appeared to be the universal wish of those who heard it, and was strongly urged by others, whom particular circumstances prevent- ed from attending when it was delivered. A few remarks and illustrations, which want of time then compelled the Author to omit, are now added in their proper places; and to the candour of the reader, and the blessing of God, the whole is humbly com- mitted. Lonpon, June }, 1805. SERMON, &c. Nehemiah vi. 3. t AM DOING A GREAT. WORK. Sucu was the manly and emphatical declaration of Nehemiah when engaged, by divine appointment, in rebuilding the ruined walls of the holy city, Jerusalem: And such is the language which all good men may with propriety adopt, when employed in any undertaking which has scriptural requisition or example for its warrant, and which is piously designed, and judiciously adapted, to promote the salvation of souls, and the ‘glory of God. Such, therefore, 1 will further add, is the pro- fession which you, my christian brethren, are authorized to assume, who are associated for the purpose of attempting the religious education of poor and destitute children, by PRo- TESTANT SuNDAy Scuoots. You, indeed, are not occu- oY pied, like Nehemiah and his colleagues, in the erection of a material building ; but you are endeavouring to prepare “ live- iy stones” for that spiritual house, which is “built on the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets,” and of which «Jesus Christ himself is the chief corner stone.” Institu- tions so excellent, when wisely and consistently managed, deserve from the Ministers of Religion every encouragement : and though painfully conscious of much unfitness fur the honourable task, which your request has imposed on me this evening, I could not allow myself to withhold my humble services: Happy shall I be, if by a few plain remarks, which will make no pretensions to novelty or to ornament, I shall be enabled to animate your zeal, and to strengthen your hands in God. Let me then entreat your attention, your candid indulgence, and your prayers, while I attempt to remind you of the NATURE of your work ;—to evince its MAGNITUDE aud importance ;—and to make some practical 1MPROVE- MENT of the subject. ‘i 4 : to the ri A KE 6 _ I. As to the NATURE of your wor®, if I rightly under- stand it, there are three principal departments of useful exer- tion which it comprehends. Your kind offices for the chil- dren of your charge consist in teaching them to read the best of Books ;—in communicating to their minds the most inte- resting and momentous INSTRUCTION;—and in promoting the formation of the most valuable and important HABITS. * he oa 1. You are smilie in teaching Children, to read THE BEST OF BooKs. You are Christians; and therefore need not to be told what book it is which I thus characterize. Your thoughts have already led you to that Book which is “ given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for re- proof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that Book of which the immortal LocKE so eloquently declared, that it “has God for its Author, Truth without any mixture of Error for its Matter, and Salvation for its End; ;” that Book, in fine, of which your own experience, I trust, has taught you. to form the highest estimate, as your best guide in all diffi- culties, your best guardian in all dangers, your best solace in all adversities. From this Book you wish that others should derive the same blessings, which it has imparted to yourselves, For you are Protestants, as well as Christians; and therefore love the Bible too well, to desire any partial monopoly of its solemn truths or precious promises. You prize so highly the provision of your Father's house, that you cannot be content to eat your morsel alone; nor are you satisfied because you have ‘‘ bread enough apd to spare,” whilst others “ perish with hunger.” That which is of universal ‘interest’ and con- cern, you wish to make universally known. You are fully aponinced that the Holy Scriptures ought not to be exclusively c to persons of any profession or rank in society; and that « the word of Salvation is sent” to the poor as well as h, to the vulgar as well as to the learned. It is THE , EVEN THE Lorp that “hath spoken,” ia “thw ively acles; and he hath “ called” all the inhabitants of “ihe carth, from the rising of the sun, unto the going tHe 7 down thereof,” to listen and obey. “« Secret things,” indeed, there are, which “ belong to God ; but those things which are revealed belong unto us, and unto our children for ever.” To children, therefore, you are anxious to impart them; persua- ded that; if believingly received, faithfully retained, and hum- bly improved, they will be “life to their souls, and marrow to their bones”” |“ Wherewithal,” asks David, ‘shall a young man cleanse his ways? By taking heed thereto,” it is instantly replied; *‘ according to thy WORD.” The scriptures are pos- sessed of such divine fulness and sufficiency, that they provide a portion of meat'in due season for persons of all ages, and in all the diversified circumstances and conditions of life. They afford “‘ milk for babes,” that they “may grow thereby,” as well as stronger‘and more appropriate nourishment for ‘‘ the Man of God,” that he “ may be i see thoroughly —— unto all good works,” 2, It is another branch of your work, to communicate to those under ‘your eare the most interesting and momentous InsTRUCTION. ‘This you labour to accomplish, by taking every opportunity of explaining to them the truths of Reli- gion, and of impressing on their hearts, by distinct and par- ticular appeals to the conscience, the general principles and obligations of’ Christian Morality. | Yours are not common Schools, designed to teach only the art of reading. You are wont to address your young pupils in the language of Philip to the Eunuch; ““UNDERSTANDEST thou what thou read- est?” And they may very justly adopt, in reply to your question, the Eunuch’s answer; ‘‘ How can I, unless some one 4vIDE me?” This, Brethren, is one essential part of your great Work, to guide and assist these little ones in thcir ‘endeavours to understand what they read; to “ teach their young ideas how to shoot;” to aid their imperfect concep- tions of divine things; to rectify their mistakes; to solve their doubts; to explain the terms of Scripture; to illustrate 4 its beauties; and to enforce its precepts. The wells of Sal- yation are deep; and, in the present infancy of their mental o 8 powers, they are unable, if abandoned to themselves, to draw up the living waters. But you kindly “ help their infirmi- ties.” While they read the Sacred Oracles, you ever and anon, like Philip, ‘ open your mouths, and begin at the same Scripture, and preach unto them Jesus.” You instruct them in the Being and Perfections of God; their own ime mortality and accountableuess, as subjects of a moral govern- ment; their fall in Adam; their consequent guilt, depravity, and danger; the redemption that is in Christ, its necessity, nature, method, value, and importance; their several duties to their Creator and Redeemer; and their. various relative and social obligations to their fellow-creatures. These in- structions you doubtless strive to clothe in plain and easy language, accommodated to their tender capacities; particu- larly enlarging on those historical parts of the Bible, which, teaching duty by example, at once impress the imagination and convince the understanding. You are also careful, I presume, that your mode of teaching shall be affectionate and conciliating, as well as earnest and serious; for that which most evidently proceeds from the heart is most likely to reach the heart, and to meet with a dne reception. In this department of your work, I trust it is likewise your _ study to exercise much patience and forbearance; to “ gather the lambs in your arms ;” and to “carry them in your bo- soms.” You are solicitous to be preserved from “ despising — the day of small things;” from “ breaking the bruised reed or quenching the smoking flax ;” from “ provoking your chil+ dren to wrath,” and discouraging their sincere, though feeble efforts, by the austerity of your aspect and manners, or the unnecessary sharpness of your rebukes. And you remember, above all, that the most incessant and unwearied diligence is indispensable tv your success. So the prophet Isaiah has taught you. ‘ Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little and there a little.” 3. Another principal part of your Work is the promotion of those HaBits of Piety and Virtue, which are of the utmost value and importance. The power of Habit is so universally understood and ‘acknowledged, that it needs no illustration from me. We’ are all in avery considerable de- _ gree under its:influence ;.and young minds in particular are subject to its, Operation: “ Children like-tender osiers take the bow, _ And as they first are fashion‘d still will grow.” Aware of this general’ Law of our Nature, you wisely endeavour to turn it to the best advantage; and to engage it betimes in the cause of righteousness. It is your design to bring up these children, according to the apostolical di- rection, not only in the admonition or doctrine, (vabecto) but also in the nurture or discipline (y masdeiy,) of the Lord. You wish to train them ws as Solomon advises, “ in the way wherein they should go;’ ’ humbly trusting, that, by the divine blessing, _ these early habits will operate as an additional security, “ when they are old,” to prevent their departure from it. It must be confessed, indeed, that, in this branch of Education, you labour, from the very nature of your insti- tution, under considerable disadvantages; for it must be, in a great degree, confided to Parents, or others, who have the “children more constantly under their notice and superintend- ance. This consideration demonstrates the vast importance of engaging Parents, if it be practicable, in a serious and uniform co-operation with your plans, Such a co-operation, could it once be generally effected, would greatly multiply “your probabilities of success. In many cases, by proper representations, remonstrances, and directions, it might, I think, be obtained. In other instances, it is more to be desired than expected. But at all events, something con- siderable may be done, by the grace of God, through your own efforts, though single and unaided. It is scarcely pos- sible, that children educated for a sufficient period, in a well- conducted Suuday School, should not contract strong and By 10 forcible habits of order, regularity, aud submission to supe- riors; of reverence for the Lord's Day; of respect for the public institutions of Religion, and attachment to the means of grace; of delight in singing the high praises of God, and . in other devotional exercises. It is unnecessary to shew how useful such habits may be found in future life, by counter- acting the temptations of the world; by resisting the work- ings of corrupt nature; and by retaining our youth in the practice of those external forms of Godliness, which may happily be conducive at length to their acquisition of its inward life and power. ‘Having thus reminded you of the Nature, I proceed, ~ II. To evince the MAGNITUDE and Importance of your Work. You are doinga Great Work. From various topics, which present themselves to my choice, for the illustration of this branch of the subject, I shall select the following. The service in which you are engaged is a Work of great and indis- peusable OBLIGATION ; a Work of great and pressing NECES- siTy ; a Work of great probable benefit and utility; anda Work of great and sugular PIETY. 1, This is a Work of great and indispensable OBLIGATION. It is enforced by precepts the most strong and express; and reconmmended by examples the most weighty and binding, It is enforced by precepts. We readin the book of Ezra, that when the Jews were repairing the ruins of their city, cer- tain persons came and asked them, “Who hath commanded — you to build this house, and to make up this wall?” The answer to this question is contained in a subsequent passage: “They builded according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Da- rius, and Artaxerxes, kings of Persia.” You, my brethren, if similarly questioned as to your proceedings, may plead an authority equally high and satisfactory. You too “ build 11 aceording to the commandment of God.” For hear the word of the Lord. These words which [ command thee this day shall be in thine heart. And THOU SHALT TEACH THEM DILIGENTLY UNTO THY CHILDREN, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when ihou walkest by the way, and when thou tiest down, and when thou risest up.— Iwill open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old: which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done. For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he COMMANDED our fathers THAT THEY SHOULD MAKE THEM KNOWN TO THEIR CHILDREN: that the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children ; that they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments: and might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious gene. ration.—Train up @ CHILD in the way he should go.— Bring up your children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. These citations afford the most plain and positive declarations, both of divine pleasure and of human duty. We therefore address to you the language of Artaxerxes, on the occasion before-metioned: ‘ Whatsoever is commanded by the God of heaven, let it be diligently done for the hovse of the God of heaven ; for why should there be wrath against the realin ?” Your work, moreover, is recommended by all that authority which the brightest Examples can confer. Some of the most admired and eminent personages, whose characters are recorded in the Scriptures, were distinguished by a pious and benevolent regard for the rising generation of their times. To Abraham's everlasting honour it is related, that when Sodom was about to be destroyed, JEHOVAH said, “ Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do? I kuow him, that he will command his CHILDREN, and his household 12) after him; and. they shall keep the way. of. the Lord.”. What fervour of affection does dying Jacob exhibit, ; when offering his last prayers to heaven for the children of Joseph: “ God, before whom my fathers did walk, the God which. fed me all my life long unto this day, the angel which re-. deemed me from all evil, BLESS THE LADS.” | Dayid repeat=, edly expresses the same friendly concern-for t/e youth of his: day: ‘‘ Come, ye CHILDREN, hearken unto me; Iwill teach. you the fear of the Lord.—Rid me and deliver me from the: hand of strange children;—that our sons may be.as plants, grown up in’their youth; that our DAUGHTERS may beias. corner-stones, polished after the similitude of a. palace.” Paul discovers a peculiar attachment to Timothy, who was a young disciple, and “ from a CHILD,” in consequence. of the early instructions of his) faithful mother, had “known the holy, scriptures.” Aud John, in his letter to the elect ladys. declares that. he “ rejoiced greatly,” because he “ found of her CHILDREN walking in the truth.” \, The ecclesiastical history. of subsequent ages demonstrates, that wheneyer: there has. been a special revival of religion, it has. been, productive of, zealous efforts for the pious education of the young. Those. who have most fervently loved Christ have always been most, careful. to “feed his lambs,” I will mention ole’ proof: among many. Those blessed witnesses for Ged, and faithful. opposers of the Papal Antichrist, the WALDENSES, who flou-’ rished about the twelfth century, are celebrated for their zeal’ and diligence in this work; and they were so,successful in it, that “ when certain Jesuits were sent among them ‘to corrupt _ their children, they returned with much. disappomtment and confusion, because the children of seven years old were well - principled enough to encounter the most learned of them alll.”* But why do I insist so long on the subject of human authority and example? Has not the glorious Son of Gon left us aper- fect pattern in this as well as in.every other branch of duty? het us devoutly listen to his'words, and cheerfully eabea:sops SS) Wesiev’s Christian Library, Vol. 50, p. 2 299, 13 tender concern for children,of, which he has set before us;so striking anexample.. ‘And they brought young CHILDREN to him that he should touch them: and; his:disciples rebuked those that brought them. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them; suffer the little CHILDREN to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the king- dom ofGod. And he took them up-in his arms, put-his hands upon them, and blessed them,” On; another occasion, also, we read that “ Jesus called a little CHILD unto him, and Set. him in the midst of them, and said, ‘‘ among other things which the evangelist records: at large, “‘ Whoso siiall receive one such little CHILD in my name, receiveth me.” The con- duct of JEHOVAH himself,accords with these sentiments of his incarnate’Son, and strongly binds us to as close an imita- tion as is practicable. Children have been in some cases the’ particular objects of divine promise and prophecy. Is it not written, <‘ Out of the mouths of BABES and SUCKLINGs,” that is, of very young children, “ hast. thou ordained strength ;” or, as our Saviour renders it, after the Septuagint, in his appli- cation of this ancient prediction to an occurrence in his own ~ history, “ perfected praise.” Children are likewise, not unfre- quently, at an extremely early period of life, the subjects of divine grace. _We have known some, and read of many more, who, when very young, have been very pious. To what did they, owe their early attachments to righteousness? To the grace of God that was in them; to the good hand of our God that was upon them for good; to the drawings of the Father bringing them to the Saviour; to the strivings and influences of the Blessed Spirit, the author of every good and perfect gift, Slere then, my brethren, is your warrant for the undertaking in which you are engaged. You are complying with the in- junctions, and imitating the example of Christ. You are fol- lowing the ‘ excellent of the earth;” who now, “ by faith and patience, inherit the promises.” You are doing 4 GREAT 14 work, for yon are acting under the express authority and commission of JEHov AH, and have the honour to be “ workers together with God.” But I observe, 2. This is a work of great and pressing NECESSITY. The precepts of God enjoin a “ reasonable service.” Not one of them is arbitrary and capricious. They are all founded in wis- dom and propriety: and though we cannot always discern the reason of divine requisitions, we may be perfectly assured that some such reason exists. In the case now before us, that rea- son is very clear and apparent. The obligation under which - we are placed, to attempt the pious education of children, na- turally and righteously results from the circumstances in which they are born, and which render such education necessary. Had we all continued in the same state of intellectual vigour and mora! perfection, in which God created the first man, the case would perphaps have been somewhat different, and the need of early instruction from those about us less urgent. «« Butas sickness and diseases have created the necessity of me- * dicines and physicians, so the disorders of our rational nature **have introduced the necessity of education and tutors.”* Children are “ born in sin, and shapen in iniquity.” They en- ter the world ignorant of God, and naturally destitute of that influence from the Holy One, which alone can prevent them, as their active faculties expand and come into exercise, from contracting personal guilt, and sinking into the depths of de- pravity. Thus devoid of spiritual knowledge and power, they are introduced into a scene of temptations and of dangers, which they are totally unqualified to resist. The issue of the conflict, for which they are so unprepared, must inevitably be fata] to their everlasting interests, unless by intercourse with God they he furnished with heavenly wisdom, and strength- ened by almighty grace. The sooner they are taught to im- plore these requisite and promised communications of super- natural aid, the more probability will there be, that their evil * See Mr. LAw’s Sericus Call; from which this illustration is borrowed 15 propensities will be effectually counteracted, and their souls. xecovered from the ruins of the fall. I anticipate a difficulty, which may here suggest itself to the minds of some of my hearers. We allow, you will say, that the depraved nature of fallen man renders education neces- sary; and that this necessity perfectly justifies the obliga- tion to engage in that work, on which you have before insist- edatlength. But to whom does this obligation attach? Does it not belong exclusively to Parents? And whom does it comprehend? Does it not include our own children only? Or are we bound to care for others also? My brethren, we think you are. We think, that the exten- sion of your care to the children of others is a work of great necessity, required by their circumstances and situation ; and that the very fact of its necessity evinces its obligation. The duty of early instruction, it is allowed, devolves most naturally and most peculiarly on the parents of the children to be edu- cated. And they are not PARENTS, but MONSTERS, who neglect to execute a trust so sacred, according to their best ability. But the fact is notorious, that many such monsters there are: who, careless about their own salvation, take no pains to promote that of their offspring. How much are these little orphans, for orphans they are in effect, to be pitied; much more to be pitied, as a celebrated writer truly observes, because they are rational and immortal. ‘Had they been mere animals, lions’ whelps, the old lioness would have taught them to catch prey, and to devour men. Even the sea-mon- -sters would have drawn out their breasts to their young.”* But towards these poor children their parents have acted like the ostrich, singular for her want of natural affection, “ which leaveth her eggs in the earth, and warmeth them in the dust; and forgetteth that the foot may crush them, or that the wild beast may break them. She is hardened against her young ones, as though they were not her's.” But shall these neglect- * Robinson. 16 ed little ones-be left to ® perish for lack of knowledge” “and of grace? No! in God, and in the benevolent supporters of SUNDAY SCHOOLS, these fatherless babes shall find mercy. Besides, there is no inconsiderable number of children, who are literally orphans. ‘Those whose duty, and perhaps whose earnest desire and endeavour, it once was fo train thém up for heaven are now no more. ss For them.no father’s hose , ies “'Throbs to soft sympathy and fond alarm; ‘No shelt'ring.arm. protects their tender blossom, nec tri'y “¢ And screens theit weakness from life’s gathering storm.” ) My brethren, what shall these do? I will tell you what they do. Their destitute, misery, looks up to God in the heavens, and cries, Great,Father of Angels, condescend to be our father, :the guide of onr youth! That Gop accepts the-charge 5 and DELEGATES the execution of it,to,you. )He presents these heirs of immortality, before you, and,says, “ Take thempand nurse them for me.’ To. you his languag@ is, Behold your sons and, your daughters! while to them he exclaims, withdi- vine complacency, Behold your,fathers. and your mothers! Now.will any of you object to this, providential arrangement of the Most Hic, or decline the task which the. voice: of God in liis dispevsations so loudly calls upon.you to) under- take? Is there not here an evident.necessi/y for your services ? Once more: there are other parents still alive, and deserving of the most honourable mention, whose deficiencies youare cal- Ied upen to supply. ‘There isa numerous.class of .persons, who, though affectionate.and pious, are poor and indigent, and ¢ therefore have not the means of procuring instruetionfor their children, in the ordinary. way, by sending them todaily schools. This must especially occur in populous and commercial cities, towns, and:districts, where the children of the poor are -em- ployed, from a very early age, in various trades and occupa- _ tions ; so that the Lord’s Day is their only period of leisure. Here then is another instance of the urgent necessity of your 17 undertaking. For it becomes you to recollect, that though their earthly parents are poor, they claim kindred in common with yourselves to “Our Father, who is in Heayen;” and the blessed Jesus is not ashamed to call them his brethren. The emergency of their case, therefore, requires, that you, whose cup of knowledge and prosperity runs over, should pour a little of your super-abundance into the empty vessels of your less favoured fellow-creatures. It calls upon you to imitate your Master, by taking these children of Providence into the arms of your compassionate care, and to become the instru- ments of blessing them with christian principles and christian consolations, I now add, 3.. This is a Work of great probable benefit and UTILITY. Here a wide field presents itself to the imagination. I must content myself with a very rapid and cursory survey. _ The CHILDREN THEMSELVES are likely to be most imme- diately and signally benefited by your labours. It is the smallest of the probable advantages of their religious educa~ . tion, that by it much individual evil will be prevented./ In persons whose minds have been early imbued with good prin- ciples, and formed to virtuous habits, we may at least hope that the depravity of nature will be fettered and controlled ; the workings of corruption checked and interrupted; and the progress of sin retarded.* Now even the prevention of evil is an invaluable mercy. So David thought when he said to Abigail, “‘ Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, which sent thee this day to meet me; and blessed be thy advice, and blessed be thou, which has kept me this day from coming to shed blood.” Many such blessings, I doubt not, my brethren, will rest on your heads.—But it is still more important to remark, that much individual good may be reasonably expected from your exertions. In many instances, though alas! not in all, * This point will receive further confirmation, when the reader shall peruse the facts and observations which are adduced in a subsequent part of the discourse, to prove the beneficial eficcts of early anstrue~ tion on public morals. See p. 20. ¢ 18, the good seed which you sow, watered by the influences of Divine Grace, shall assuredly spring up, and produce * fruit unto boliness;” and “ the end,” we humbly trust, of thousands of the children whom you educate, will be “ eternal life.” O brethren, what an END! Amply does it deserve, and am- ply will it reward, all your diligence in using the means by which it is promoted. Consider your undertaking in con- nexion with this grand result, and you wil! at once perceive its vast importance. You are doing a GREAT work. You are saving souls from death, and preparing them for happiness unspeakable, both in the world that now is, and in that end- Jess world which is to come. Eternity alone can adequately estimate the value, or measure the duration, of the benefits — you confer. May myriads in that day rise up and eall you blessed! These are not enthusiastic expectations. They are warranted by Reason. For althougha pious education cannot supply the principle of holiness; yet it can explain the rule, and enforce the motives, and direct to the true source of holiness. Such an education is in this way one of the chief means, which God blesses to the production of holiness. And mthe use of means it is right and rational to expect the blessing. For . «moral causes produce their effects as well as natural, though not always so fully, nor with equal certamty.”* And wher they are seasonably and suitably employed, there is consider- able probability that they will be ultimately successful. Early impressions are wonderfully deep aud permanent. Children are compared by David to arrows in the hand of a mighty man. Now if these arrows be properly directed, and well aimed, in the first commencement of their motion, it is very likely that their subsequent course will cor respoud, ‘as we wish, with the primary impulse which they receive. These general suggestions of reason are sanctioned by Revelation; and, blessed be God, many instances of youthful and persevering “* Rural Philosophy, by Exy Batgs, Esq, p- 149. © 19 piety authorize us to add, that they 2 are abundantly confirmed by Experience. I observe further, that not only the children themselves, but some of THEIR IMMEDIATE CONNEXIONS also, will pro- bably derive great spiritual benefit from your work. Your usefulness will not ultimately terminate on the individuals whom you educate; it will be extended to the domestic and social circles, of which they are or shall be members. Who can tell but that parents may become converts to the prayers, the exhortations, and the holy example of their own offspring? The annals of some Sunday Schools have already, I believe, realized this supposition.—Those who now are objects of tuition may in time themselves become heads of families ; and, if pious, will communicate to those under their care the blessings which they may have obtained by your instrumen- tality. ‘‘ Freely they have received,” and they will doubtless “ freely give.” Thus God shall have in perpetuity a seed to serve him; for ‘one generation shall praise his works to another, and declare his mighty acts.” If ‘ one sinner des- iroyeth much good,” one genuine convert, on the contrary, diffuses a very salutary and powerful influence among all his relative connexions. Nor is this all. For what are NATIONS, but associations of families, and of the individuals who compose them? What- ever therefore improves men’s personal characters, and in- creases domestic order and virtue, is likely to yield the most substantial advantages to SOCIETY AT LARGE. Your's is in fact a work of great patriotism. Next to the generai pub- lication of the glorious gospel, an object which is of all others the most transcendently important, I can conceive of nothing which seems to promise more real and extensive good to man- kind, that the general education of the poor in thristian prin- ciples and practices, And as Sunday Schools, when properly conducted, contribute very materially to facilitate this ‘ con- summation so devoutly to be wished,” their institution and r 20 * support deserve to be considered as a nationul concern of the first magnitude. Not only as men and as christians, but as Britons, we are bound to give them our zealous patronage and assistance. If I were asked, By what means may the welfare of our beloved country, and the stability of the state, be most effectually promoted? I would decidedly answer thus: La-— bour with all your might to advance two grand objects,— first, the speedy promulgation of pure and primitive Chris- tiavity in all corners, and among all the adult subjects, of the empire,—and, secondly, the immediate establishment of f religious Schools for the instruction of the rising generation: I beg leave to fortify my humble opinion on this point by re- ferring to a few interesting facts, and to the eminent autho- rities by whom they are stated.—It is generally known and allowed, that Scotland, and the low countries of it in parti- * cular, are distinguished from all other parts of the British Empire, by the attention which is there bestowed on early education, and the provision which is made for the wide and’ regular diffusion of its benefits. ‘It is provided by law, in Scotland, that there shall be a school established, and a master appointed, in every parish, Many additional schools are also founded by donation and legacies ; so ‘that in the southern parts of Scotland, it is very rare (says Mr. Howanrp) to meet with any person who cannot both read and write; and it is deemed scandalous not to be possessed of a bible.”* Now, what are the effects of a! this on the national character and habits of the Scotch, and on the morals and order of Society ? * See “ A Father's Instructions, Part III.” by the late Dr. Perer VAL of Manchester, a most amiable man, and zealous philanthropist, Whose name it would be ungrateful in the author of this sermon thus publicly to mention, without expressing the highest esteem and yene- ration for his memory. A little anecdote, in confirmation of the statement which is above quoted, may not be here misplaced. A friend of the author was re- quested some years ago, during the period of his ministerial labours in Scotland, to distribute a parcel of religious’ books and tracts. He offered some of them to the servant of a family, i in which he happened to be an occasional visitor at the time; but previously asked her whe- ther she could read. ead, Sir, she replied, with an air and tone of mingled cw-prise and indignation, do you think I was brought up ia England ? . ee , 21 “It is principally owing to this,” in Mr. How ARD’s opinion, “that the numerous emigrants from that country, dispersed over almost all Europe, appear with credit, and advance themselves in their several stations.”* From the Tables of the same justly celebrated writer it appears, that in the whole of Scotland, whose population, at the time of these calculations, was estimated to amount to, at least, one million six hundred thousand souls, only one hundred and thirty-four persons were convicted of capital crimes in a period of nineteen years; be- ing, on the average, about seven in each year. In a subse- quent tabie we are informed, that in the single circuit of Nor- folk in England, including ‘six counties, and containing not more, it is supposed, than eight hundred thousand persons, being but one half the population of Scotland, no less than four hundred and thirty-four criminals were condemned to death in the space of twenty-three years; which is an annuab average of nearly nineteen capital convicts, besides eight hun- dred and seventy-four seutenced to transportation. The dou- ble population of Scotland being taken into the estimate, there is thus a difference in its favour, in this important point, in the ratio of seven to thirty eight; Ireland, on the other _hand, is that part of the Empire, in which the poor are most ignorant, and their education is most flagrantly neglected. “Tt is a fact ascertained by the most diligent and accurate inquiries, lately set on foot in Ireland, that even in ibe most enlightened part of it, not above one third of the people re- ceive any education at all; and throughout the rest of the Island not a twentieth part have even Jearned their alphabet, What has been the consequence ? Such scenes of wanten * Howard’s Account of Lazarettos: 4to, 1789, p.120: + See Howard on Lazarettos, p. 248,249, 252. Itmay be necessary to observe to those readers, who heard this sermon delivered, that the calculation now published varies considerably from the one which was read to the congregation from the Duke de Liancourt’s pamphict, as quoted by Dr. Percival. The Duke has strangely erred in the repre- sentation he has given of the result of Mr. Howard's ‘Tables. By a careful inspection of the origina! work, the author las been enabled to correct the mistake into which he was before le d; and the statement which is here printed, he beheves to be perfectiy accurate, 22 eruelty and savage ferocity, as exceed the power of deserip- tion.”* These are the remarks of the Bishop of London. An Irish Prelate, the Bishop of Killaloe, accords with him in sentiment. After describing the calamities which have of late years desolated his country, lie proceeds to recommend the general communication of religious instruetion, as the only- adequate remedy. “ I will no longer dwell,” says he, “upon these painful recollections, but draw from them the following conclusion, that all the evils which we have suffered, we have drawn upon ourselves, by neglecting, as we have done, the morals and religion of the people; and that if we do not ac- tively and immediately turn from that way, we but postpone the hour of destruction.”+ / Such are the considerations which evince the probable be- @efits of Sunday Schools to Civil Society, 1 must not wholly omit to add, though ] have time to glance only at this parti- cular, that there is another community, still more dear and venerable, the interests of which are materially involved in ‘this great work; even THE CuuRcH of the living God, which is the spiritual “ mother of us all;” that Church, in whose behalf so many miraculous dispensations of Divine Pro- vidence have been successively exhibited; that Church, the members of which Gop ourR Saviour hath “ bought with his own blood;” that Church for which so many subsequent martyrs have also bled; and in whose sanctification and in- crease the Holy Spirit is continually employed. On the ac- cession of the rising generation to her standard it is evident that this Church Catholic must depend, under God, for the future maintenance of her cause, and for the promised exten- sion of her conquests. “ And I doubt not but Sunday Schools will largely contribute, in connexion with other means, “to * Bishop Porteus’s Charge in 1803, p. 26. + Bishop of Killaloe’s Sermon before tiie Lord Lieutenant,in Noy.2798 _ Some other facts, strikingly illustrative of this branch of the subject, which were omitted, from want of time, when this discourse was de- - livered, are sunjoied i in an appendix, 235 recruit the number of her sons, and to accelerate her millen- nial triumphs.” You are doing a GREAT Work, my friends ; for by your instrumentality, in conjunction with that of others similarly engaged, the once crucified but now exalted Jesus shal! at length obtain the honours he has deserved; and wear the crown, as he will constitute the joy, of all the earth. 4. From the whole of the preceding arguments it appears, that the service in which you are employed is a work of great and singular Piety; for by it much glory will be brought te God, “ of whom, and through whom, aud to whom, are all things.” Of every thing good his grace is the origin and au- thor; and of every thing good his g'ory is the ultimate object and final end.—God is glorified by your work itself. The very effort is a fruit of righteousness, which redounds to his honour, and reflects lustre on that holy gospel, by the princi- ples and spirit of which you are prompted, I trust, to engage in this benevolent undertaking —And he will be eminently glorified by your success. The number of his spiritual wer- shippers shall be increased; his blessed word shall be more extensively read and venerated; his holy sabbaths shall be rescued from profane violation, and his sanctuaries from con- temptuous neglect; his praises shall be sung by lips from which blasphemies only would otherwise have resounded ; the mouths of babes and sucklings shall again lisp Hosannas to the Son of David; the righteous shall hear it and rejoice; the harps of angels shall be tuned to sweeter and louder strains; and the enemies of the Lord and of his Christ shall be covered with everlasting shame and confusion of face. « The wall was finished,” says Nehemiah: “ and it came to ‘pass, that when all our enemies heard thereof, and the hea- then that were about us saw these things, they were much east down in their own eyes; for they perceived that this work was wrought of God.” Til. It now remains only that I should attempt some practical IMPROVEMENT of what has been advanced. And I observe, — : 24 i. The magnitude of your undertaking demonstrates the propriety of your UNION. The Israelites who were con- nected with Nehemiah, in the work to which our text refers, are your exemplars in this procedure. — It is truly edifying te read, in the third chapter of this book, of the zeal with which all ranks and classes of people confederated on that great occasion, and of the harmony with which they acted to- gether.—It is only with those whom we believe, in the judg- ment of scriptural charity, to be “ Israelites indeed,” that union is either proper or practicable. For how “ can two walk together,” or work together, with comfort and advan- tage, “ unless they be agreed,” at least in all points of essen- tial and vital importance? But there are certain lesser differ- ences among good men, which do not disqualify them for a cordial co-operation with each other in some of their great and principal designs. There are seasons, it is true, when even these differences, so far from being renounced, ought:to be firmly and conscientiously, though candidly and temperate- ly, avowed. But there are other seasons when, without any sacrifice of principle, they may be honestly forgotten and everlooked. The circumstances under which you have asso- -ciated were properly deemed to constitute an opportunity, which not only justified, but loudly demanded, the exercise of this mutual. forbearance and indulgence. All smaller dis- tinctions may well be suspended, and all our comparatively Zittle controversies hushed into silence, when we are called unitedly to engage in so great a work. As many as appear really to build on the same evangelical foundation, Christ erucified, fo “ walk by the same rule” of Christian Holiness, and to “ mind the saine end,” the same godly and benevolent flesign, ‘peace be upon them;” for, whatever be their parti- cular denomination, they are in our estimation a branch of * the Israel of God,” and justly-claim the right hand of. fel- jowship. Among such persons, though there be not in every thing an entire and perfect accordance, there does, however, exist a sincere and profitable union in the fundamental verities ef the Christian faith, and in all those general views and prin- % 25 eiples, on which Sunday Schools are established. Among such, therefore, there may be, and ought to be, in all cases, an union*of Affection and Good-will; and in many casés, an union of Efforts and Exertions. ‘* Let there be,” said good Putip Henry, “in necessary things unity; in every thing charity; and then there need not be in every thing uniformity.” Now if the union of real Christians, on such an occasion as _ the present, be thus possible, is it not highly desirable and ad- vantageous? Will it not tend to concentrate the strength, and to increase the zeal, of those who labour in the service, and so conduce to the speedier and better execution of the work itself? Are not two, when thus united, “ better than one?” The votaries of Literature and Science, and the busy sons of Trade and Commerce, have found it expedient to associate for the promotion of their respective pursuits.. Bad men are united for the purposes of impiety. ‘ Devils with Devils damn’d firm concord hold.” Why then should the active friends of God and of mankind alone refuse.to combine their forces or their counsels against the common foe, and insupport of this common cause? Thus combined, they will be terrible to sin and to Satan, “ as an army with banners.” You, my Brethren, have felt the force of. these consider- ations; and believing yourselves to be influenced by the same Spirit, serving the same Master, actuated by the same mo- tives, and pursuing the same end, you have wisely determined, like the Jews of old, to “ strengthen each other for the work,” by mutual consultations and encouragements.». ,Go on and prosper! . Still ‘‘ follow the things which make for peace, and things whereby ye may edify one another.” Carefully guard against the introduction of any thing into your plans, conversations, or publications, which will interrupt your chris- tian harmony. Like the Pythagorean Philosophers, set a mark of infamy on the number two, as being the first depar- ture from unity. F ervently love God, and one another; and the God of love and peace shall be with you, He shall look DB 26 down with approbation on your labours; and the uuilen of his countenance shall light you to success. ae 2. The magnitude of your work scleiial also the necessity of inviting @ more extensive co-operation. The fields, in this department of usefulness, are white unto harvest; and there is reason to believe that the harvest itself will ultimately be great. But the labourers, such labourers at least as are duly qualified by knowledge and by piety, are comparatively few. Endeavour to multiply their number; and zealously promote in your respective neighbourhoods and connexions, whenever it can be done with prudence and propriety, the establishment ofnew Schools. 1 observe with pleasure, that this is one object of your union. You adopt in substance the language of good “Nehemiah; ‘“ Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire! Come and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.” May the success of your ap- plications for help be similar to his! May many adopt in reply the answer which he received: ‘‘ They said, Let us rise up and build.” 3. But “except the Lorn build the house, they labour _ in vain that” attempt to “ build it;” however great their number, or firm their union. From the magnitude of your work I further infer the duty of Prayer. In this also, Nehe- miah and his associates are your patterns. We find them repeatedly supplieating divine aid, and making prayer unto their God. “Probably they would often borrow the fervent “petition of the Psalmist, “ Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion; build THOU the walls of Jerusalem.” Go and do like- wise. On your sincere, earnest, and habitual prayers, every ~ thing else will, under God, depend. Pray for wisdom and — zeal; for patience and love; for singleness of eye, aud for constant power to do every thing: in the name of the Lord Jesus, and to the glory of God by him. Pray also for the children of your charge, that their understandings may be opened, ileir judgments informed, their consciencies awaken- — ; : 27 | ed, their affections sanctified, their wills subdued, and their souls for ever saved. Remember that in vain youplant and water, if God give not the increase. The good that is done on the earth, he doeth it alone. Diligently seek his blessing, . without which all your to‘ls will produce no baryest. After. every lesson you teach, and at the. close of every Sabbath’s exertions, you may properly accommodate to your own case the language which the author of the Seasons has employed on another occasion :* * Be cracious, Heaven! for now laborious man Has done his part. Ye fost’ring breezes, blow! Ye soft’ning dews, ye tender show’rs, descend! And temper all, thou world-reviving sun, Into the perfect year!” 4. Ladd, lastly, The magnitude of your work should excite you to diligent perseveranee in a cause so excellent. ¢¢ Be not weary in well-doing.” It is not by short-lived and transient exertions, but by steady, uniform, and continued activity, that objects so vast and so important as your’s can be ultimately accomplished. ‘* Therefore, my beloved Bre- thren, be stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour shall not be iu vain in the Lord.” To this end, let me advise you frequently to contemplate the deplorable state of the world; the duty of attempting its amelioration; and the peculiar im- portance of your work to the best interests of individuals, and of society, civil and religious.—Maintain a constant and supreme attention to personal godliness. Remember that the want of this can in no degree be supplied by public activity. Nay, the declension of your personal piety will gradually un- dermine the foundations, and dry up the sources, of that activity; and render you ‘‘ weary and faiut in your minds.” I Conjure you, look well to this matter; and let not your services in the School be abused into an apology for neglect- ing those of the Closet, or of the public Sanctuary. Con- stantly apply for the influences of the Spirit, to keep alive in your hearts the sacred flame of love to God a.d to maukiad; ® Tromson’s Spring: verse 48. 28 : x and beware lest whilé tending the vineyards of others, your own - remain barren and unproductive; lest after teaching many how to “make their calling and election sure,” yourselves « become cast-aways ;” lest you, Who have “brought ¢ildren- to Jesus,” should remain personally destitate of an interest in his merits and gtace.— Finally, to animate you fo perseve- rance, look forward with humble confidence and gtatitade té that promised recompence of reward, with which DivitieMerey will condescend to crown your pious labours in this great work, That there will be any such reward at all is matter not of debt, but of grace; and résults not from our merit, but from the Redeemer's purchase. Our best services are unprofitable and defective, and need indulgence and pardon. The wall which Nehemiah built, was first solemnly purified, before it could be acceptably dedicated to God. And all our works, as well as our persons, must be sprinkled with the atoning blood, before they or we can be objects of divine complacency and reward. But when thus sprinkled, ‘God is net unrigh- teous to forget labours of love.” And the same grace which promises a reward, promises also that it shall be “ according to your works.”— Your success itself will be no small part of your reward, The very accomplishment of so great a work willbe great wages. One soul immortal, rescued from ig- norance, and sin, and hell, will more than compensate your united exertions, But besides the pleasure of success, you shall be honoured by your God with other tokens of his ap- probation, These children ‘“‘ cannot recompence you; but you shall be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.” Then will the righteous Judge declare, ‘“ Inasmuch as ye did it to one of the least of these, my brethren, ye did it unto me; come, ye blessed children of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. . Next to the faithful Ministers of the Gospel, the pious ¢ and zealous instructors of youth shall be placed ce high i in salvation, and the climes of bliss.” For.“ they that be wise shall shine as the firmament, and they that turn many to, righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.” Wherefore encourage and “* comfort one aniothér with these words Hey APPENDIX. Tue additional facts, to which the reader was referred in page 22 of the foregoing discourse, are recorded in a Letter to the Right Hon. Lord PELHAM, on the State of Mendicity in the Metropolis, by MatTtuew Martin, Esq. which has been recently published, and is sold by HATCHARD, Picca- dilly. The whole of Mr. MarTIN’s pamphlet is exceedingly curious and interesting, and well deserves perusal. A judi- cious abstract of the calculations which it contains, together with the reasonings and inferences resulting from them, was printed in a late periodical work, and is so much to the Au- thor’s purpose, that he is persuaded he cannot better gratify his readers than by inserting it at length. It is as follows:— ‘< This author (Mr. MarTTN) has, it seems, for Some years, directed ‘his atteution to a minute and yet extensive investiga- tion iuto the condition of BeGGaARs in London, and to the devising schemes for lessening their number. Some of the Ministers of State, much to their honour, have given coun- tenance to his labours, and furnished some pecuniary aid towards the execution of his plans, «* The number of begging poor in England, including their children, are computed by Mr. Martin at 15,288 individual souls, These he divide into classes, according to the coun- tries or parishes from which they are supposed to have origi- nally come. The begging natives of England are subdivided into two classes; those of the various parishes in London and its vicinity, and those from the distant parishes of England, The first of these two last classes he computes to amount fo 6693; the second, to 2604; making in all, of English beg- gars in London (including children,) $297; Irish beggars (including their children,) to 5310; the Scotch to no more. = i ? “;:lC 350 APPENDIX. . . (children included) than 504, The number of English beg- gars, therefore, in London, exceeds that of the Scotch by no less than 8793, and that of the Irish above the Scotch is 4806.* That the number of English mendicant poor in the metropolis of England, as well as of the British empire, should greatly exceed that of those from either of the sister kingdonss, ought not perhaps to excite wonder, considering the shortness of the distances, and the superior facility of access to London. But still when we take into consideration - the vast sums which are levied in the parishes of Englaud, in the name of poor’s rates, a considerable degree of surprise cannot but be excited at the very great number of English begging puor in Londen. But what account js to be given of the vast superiority, in point of number, of the Irish over the Scotch mendicants in that city? Many suberdinate causes, no doubt, combine to produce this effeet; but the great and principal cause appears to originate from the superior advan- tages, in point of EDUCATION, enjoyed by the commonalty of Scotland. The children of the poor in that country are better educated, probably, than those of any other. Itis rare indeed in Scotland to find a man who caunot read; there are. even few who canuot both read and write. At school they are taught to read the sciiptures ; the principles of religion are instilled into their minds; moral habits, | founded upon ihe restraints and sanctions of christianity, are formed in early youth, and adhere to them as they advance in years; and they become, in consequence, sober, useful, and industrious members of society. Whereas, from the want of manufac- tories in a considerable part of Ireland, the children of the- poor find no profitable branch of business to which they ean betake themselves. Idieness and Ignorance, therefore, unite to train up these unfortunate young ones to every sort of * The writer of the paper, which is here transeribed, might alse have added, that the Irish beggars are said to exceed the. Scotch not only ia number, but in depravity of character: a circumstance which materia'ly afiects the argument. “The former (says Mr, MARTIN, p. 23) are frequently v- ry turbulent and vicious; the latter more re= gular, sober, aud industrious.” APPENDIX. 31 folly and vice; and the scene, with great numbers, terminates in extreme want and beggary. Their own country being - overstocked with people of that profession, they find means to obtain a passage for England, the common resort of the wicked and profligate from every part of the empire. To ignorance among the common people are added idleness and supersti- tious-bigotry. The great body of them being by profession Roman Catholics, are under subjection to their priests, many of whom are extremely ignorant and bigotted. They, instead of removiug, prolong the ignorance of their people, according to the maxim, that “ ignorance is the mother of devotion;” and undoubtedly it is the mother of superstition, and of sla- vish subjection to the clergy. Popish schools are not allow- ed in Ireland; the priests prohibit parents of their persuasion from sending their children tu those taught by protestants, under the pretence that their principles would be endangered: and besides, of these schools there are but few, in comparison - of what the country requires. Tew of the children, in con- sequence, are taught either to read, or to exercise their minds in thinking upon moral and religious subjects; they are compelled by superstitious fears to resign themselves to the direction of their spiritual guides, and to believe and act as they think fit to enjoin. The deplorable effects of these unhappy prejudices have of late been woefully seen and felt by the public. «© These are facts and considerations of high national im- portance, and much it is to be wished, that men, in stations of power and influence in the state, would bestow serious attention upom them, and endeavour to find a remedy fer the evil. “TI conclude with a quotation from Mr. Manrtrn’s pamphlet, which does him the highest honour, and merits the deepest attention of every friend to religion and his country. eae APPENDIX, © It is the interest of the state (says he,) in a politic of view, to promote the moral character of the sub; religion is the only stock on which morality can he To inculeate, therefore, the sacred and sublime tt christian revelation, and enforce the practical duti qvent on a genuine faith, is a matter of the first to the nation, and to the invividual; and surely flection will be sufficient to evince the cruelty of quent executions of unhappy wretches, for thet of Jaws which they were never properly instructed Indeed, no permanent or extensive advantage can expected tu be derived to the poor, without incul them the*principies of religion and morality: 2 ground, the education of youth of both sexes, impressing on their minds a sense of the obligations gion, and habituating them to industry, may bey recommended as a momentous object of national, cone To this account of Mr. MARTIN’s pamphlet, will only add one other statement, which, if authe: ti confirms the positious advanced in that part of his ser which this Appendix is supplementary. Ona qe PUBLIC MORALS, the authority of the late celebral FIELDING is very weighty: and it is asserted, * sured a person, that during his long adminis “< tice in Bow-street, only six Scotchmen were brougl “him. The remark did not proceed from any « partiality in the magistrate, but was produced b 7 « proof of theeffect of asober and religious education @ “ the lower ranks.omtheir morals.and conduct’? Seek Anecdotes, vol. ii. p. 59. ¢ See a paper, entitled Christianity favourable to I ndustry, “ Benevolus,” and inserted in the Theological and Bit for August, 1804, p. 304—306, THE END. DATE DUE DEMCO 38-297 Ylcrsrl lod a $1 osTsayn