A DISCOURSE,
DELIVERED AT THE REQUEST
OF THE
- YOUNG MEN OF THE SECOND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
OF
KNOXVILLE,TENNESSEE?
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 1843,
BY REV. WM, MACK.
JAS. C. MOSES,
(OFFICE OF THE " KNOXVILLE REGISTER,")
1843.
CORRESPONDENCE.
Knoxvilee, Dec. 4th, 1843.
REV. WM. MACK:
Dear Sir :—At a meeting of the Young Men, Members of the Second
Presbyterian Church, thie undersigned were appointed a committee to request of you,
for publication, a copy of your Address, delivered before them yesterday.
Very respectfully, your ob'd't servants,
J. J. G. SMITH, •
J. J. ROBINSON, > Committee.
M. J. LEECH, 3
• Genteemen :—Your unexpected request has been received. Having endeavored,
amidst the engagements attendant upon my anticipated journey, to fill up from re¬
collection, those portions of the Discourse that were not entirely written out at the
time of its delivery, I submit the manuscript, to be disposed of according to the
wish expressed in your note.
Yours, with much affection and esteem,
WM. l^ACK.
Messrs. J. J. G. Smith,
J. J. Robinson,
M. J. Leech.
KNOXVILLE, Nov. 28, 1843.
Rev- William Mack :
Dear Sir:—Having flattered ourselves with the
fond hope and expectation that you did not intend leaving us until
the first day of January next, at least, you can better imagine than
we can possibly describe, the mingled emotions of surprise, sor¬
row and regret, with which we received your announcement, on
Sabbath last, that that day closed your labors among us as our regu¬
lar minister, and that in a few short days, at farthest, you must bid
us farewell—perhaps forever. We pause- not-here to enquire
into the causes which have induced you thus to leave us earlier
than before anticipated, or to express our profound regrets that any
cause should ever have arisen for your leaving us at all. We feel
that this would now be useless; for we knov^ that if the earnest
persuasions of the elder brethren of our church, if the more ardent
and supplicating entreaties of ourselves, if .indeed the united pray¬
ers of the whole of your congregation, could have had any influ¬
ence in changing your mind from what you regard to be your duty
in this matter, you would never have left us. But, as before re¬
marked, we stop not here to express the poignancy of our sorrow,
or to mourn over the existence of that, to us, unhappy necessity
which calls you from us—such feelings we now throw as a sacri¬
fice upon the altar of duty; and.while we s,hall prepare ourselves
to meet; with christian fortitude, one of the most painful events
which it has eyer fallen to our lot, since bur connection with the
church, to endure—that of bidding adieu to a long tried and dear¬
ly beloved Pastor—we shall endeavor to find some consolation in
the pleasing reflection, that " they who mourn shall be comforted,"
for the " pure in heart shall meet again."
Our object, then, in now addressing you, is to ask that you will
appoint some day, or evening, at your own convenience, prior to
your departure, to give us- what we may term a parting benedic¬
tion or public farewell, accompanied by such other remarks as you
may deem fit on the occasion to make.
Our object in making this request cannot but be obvious. By
reference to the signatures, you will perceive that the subscribers
^constitute, in part, what may be justly termed the youngest chil¬
dren of your church ; and although many of us made the first
public declaration of a " change of heart/' under the immediate
preaching of another, yet, sir, we could not but regard it as a man¬
ifest injustice both to you and ourselves, did we not avail our¬
selves of this occasion to assure you, that to yours, of all
human influence, we are indebted for whatever change there
4
may have been produced in us. Your untiring exertions removed
the stumbling blocks fiom our path—your earnest entreaties in¬
duced us to take that path, and your .eloquent appeals first discov¬
ered to us, as we believe, the blessed cross of our Saviour, at the
foot of which we humbly trust we yet bow with a hope of pardon
and forgiveness. It has been your constant aim to impress upon
us the necessity of diligently watching ourselves, that we might
remain worthy to continue there—you have led us on through some
of the difficulties and trials which beset the young pilgrims in their
first efforts to pursue the " difficult and narrow way," and you
have taken us, as it were, to the foot of the mount. Your voice
can now no longer be heard-—your admonitions and directions
must soon cease, and we be left, in a measure, to depend upon our
own exertions. Can it then be suprising that we should experience,
on this occasion, some of those painful apprehensions which natu¬
rally occur to a body of children, on being suddenly deprived of
the tender counsels of their father and head ?
These are the reflections which have induced us to make the above
request—feeling that you will then have an opportunity of throw¬
ing out some suggestions as aids in effecting the spiritual life, fix¬
ing, as it were, some finger-boards for our guidance in your ab¬
sence ; although you have time and again endeavored to do so be¬
fore, yet we feel that the peculiarly interesting circumstances con¬
nected with this occasion, will impress them upon our mind's in
such a manner that they can never be forgotten.
In view of the object above declared, our remarks may be con¬
sidered as unnecessarily extended, though we trust you will regard
them as the unpremeditated outpourings of hearts that must ever
beat with the liveliest recollections of your exertions in our be¬
half, and as an ardent desire on our part to impress upon you the
sincere and disinterested attachment which we shall ever cherish
for your memory.
With the sincere hope that you will comply with our request,
and with a fervent prayer to our Heavenly Father, that he will
bless your labors, wherever you go, we subscribe ourselves,
Affectionately yours,
JOHN J. CRAIG,
M. J. LEECH,
J. J. ROBINSON,
S. MANSFIELD,
J. J. G. SMITH,
W. W. WRIGHT,
M. J. GILCHRIST,
L. H. REEDER,
JO. GREER PICKET,
J. M. LOWRY,
W. F. KEITH,
S.W.BELL,
T. J. CONN.
DISCOURSE.
2 Peter, ii. 12.
" Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in re¬
membrance of these things, though ye know them, and be
established in the present truth."
The circumstances, giving occasion to the present discourse,
justify the selection of a subject, different from the kind generally
presented before a body of young men. Instead of a formal
address upon some of the topics usual in such cases, impelled by
my own feelings, and in accordance with your own request, that
" some suggestions be thrown out as aids in effecting the
spiritual life," I will endeavor at this time to put you in re-
membranc^ of a few thoughts, which, it is hoped, through the
blessing of God, will accomplish the desired object.
■ Nor is this to be regarded in the light of a farewell discourse.
All intended to be said in that character was announced two weeks
since, when the engagement as your regular minister was closed.
Again to pass through the scene of dissolving the interesting and
cordial relation, that has existed between this congregation and
myself for upwards of three years, would be too severe. The
pang of separation has been passed. The parting embrace has
been given. Still, while detained by the weather and dther prov-
idenceSj as my love for this people is not lessened, I arn as willing
as ever to strive for your best welfare. But it is as if the speaker
had already embarked upon the vessel which would bear him away;
her fastenings unloosed, gradually she is gliding into the channel;
then beholding his friends upon the shore, the hand is kissed as
the token of adieu ; and while thus departing, he attempts to am
6
nounce in their hearing some words of counsel, of warning-, and
of consolation.
That the object before us may be in part accomplished, let me
remind you, first, of the propriety of considering with great
care the true design of life.
And what is our life ? Is it not, as the watch in the night ? the
weaver's shuttle ? the arrow's fleeting track ? The moment, in
which we look upon existence—then bieathe—then die.
This is the brief period given to us to prepare ,for eternity.
And to make good this preparation, is life's true design. In this
space, we are to change enmity toward God for friendship ; es¬
caping from the storm of his wrath, and sheltering ourselves in the
covert provided by the love of the Saviour.
Delay is not necessary for the purpose of making effort season¬
able. Every one of our race is under condemnation, if'hehas not
already made the proper exertion and is " in Christ Jesus." It is
becoming for each individual, yet unconverted, to hasten, for the
cloud of wratH is now hanging over him ; the lightning flashes,
the thunder rumbles; and soon, if he fly not,, upon his defenceless
head, will it spend its fury. . •
But, with what is the multitude around us engaged ? Is it with
the attempt to prepare for eternity ? Alas ! many, by far too ma¬
ny, forget, while immersed in the pursuits of life, that in this
world is the sowing season, and that in the future is the harvest.
Floating down the stream of existence, ere they are aware, their
bark .will strike the sunken rock ; and when too late to correct the
mistake, they will discover how fatal was their error.
On what a slender thread hangs our eternal destiny ! Brief is
the period of our stay in this world, and much of the appointed
time has already passed. Oh ! how unwise to forget the true ob¬
ject of life, and throw away the moment given to secure everlast¬
ing happiness. Time lost, all is lost. How important, then, is
the question to you, my hearers, are you rightly employing these
precious moments of the spring-time of your existence ? To-day
is yours. To-morrow may be eternity !
Again—Though fulfilling the true design of life involves the
condition of the immortal spirit, yet as its salvation is of so much
consequence, it may be well to admonish you, never forget that
you have a soul to be lost or saved.
7
It was the interrogatory of the Messiah, " What shall a man be
profited, if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul ?"
He regarded all temporal things as valueless, compared with this
inestimable possession. For its benefit, he was willing to leave the
unclouded glory of the celestial world, enshroud himself in the
veil of humanity, endure the contempt of his creatures, and ex¬
pose himself to the cruelties of a horrid crucifixion; Unless these
things had been done, the soul would have been forever lost ; but
such in his view was its value, that he'gave himself to open the
way for its salvation. ,
The attempt to determine its value by aught of earth is ineffec¬
tual. Is it the treasures of this world that are produced ? Bring
the rich rgems of the ocean, the jewels of , eastern and western
climes, the precious ores imbedded in the earth, all that man re¬
gards as possessed of worth; and compared with the soul, they
are nought.Is it the reputation conferred by mortals? Behold
that chaplet adorning his brow, whom learning has honored ; that
garland entwined for him, who has led on his legions to the con¬
flict and returns triumphantly victorious ; that crown conferred on
him, who is denominated one of earth's noblest born ;—and they
fade, as the eye fixes upon the priceless soul. Is it the delight
which the, world proffers ? The sumptuous banquet, the gay sa¬
loon, the thoughtless revel; all these are vanity ; with . them, in
their most fascinating forms, the immortal spirit cannot be com¬
pared.
Not only does earth fail to announce its value, but all else of
creation comes short in exhibiting the real worth of this, its fairest,
brightest, richest portion. It shines forth in radiance surpassing
all things formed by Jehovah's bounteous hand.
" Know'st thou th' importance of a soul immortal 1
Behold this midnight .glory ! worlds on worlds !
Amazing pomp ! redouble this amaze—
Ten thousand add—add twice ten thousand more :
Then weigh the whole : one soul outweighs them all,
And calls th' astonishing munificence
Of unintelligent creation poor!"
And this priceless thing is in the possession. of evepy human
being. But, it is said, will it not remain there ? Aye. Will
there be a period in time, or a period in eternity, when one of our
race shall not have it in possession ? Never. And yet, the soul
8
may be lost—lost to hope, lost to happiness, lost to God, lost to
heaven. It may be wrecked upon the billows, which dash against'
the rocks of everlasting despair : bqt if wrecked, it is not annihi¬
lated those billows are endless in their duration; and so is the
soul that will be forever tossed upon their foaming, angry crests.
Die, it will never ; though it'will ever die. Forever «ruined ; yet
never reaching non-existence. Desolation ever occurring ; yet
destruction never complete.
To save the soul, thus, exposed; is a worthy attempt. To edu¬
cate the mental powers is commendable ; to relieve the wants of
the needy is approved benevolence ; to redeem a.nation from ty¬
ranny and give it the blessings of liberty, is an action deserving
the gratitude of every favored citizen. But, what are these com¬
pared* with the education of the soul, with relief adapted to its ne¬
cessities, with its deliverance from the bondage of sin ? Attention
to these and neglect of the other, is making the least the greatest.
It is gathering pebbles upon the seashore, while the costly pearls
are just in sight. It is being contented with the taper, and shutting
out the glorious sun midway in the heavens. It is hewing out the
cistern, even the broken cistern, while at hand glides the flowing
stream. The soul, the soul—that'is the important object. And
he, who seeks its benefit, not only chooses the path of wisdom ;
but.that path, all who are wise, and good, and holy, bid hmi in
earnest tones to pursue with all his might.
And again—Forget not that life is the period during which
our allegiance to God is tested.
When the redeemed are admitted to heaven,/ they will go no
more out; suffer no more;' undergo no more trials or temptations.
They will be " before the throne of God, and serve him day and
night in his temple : and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell
among them : they shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more :
neither shall the "sun light on Ihem, nor any heat: for the Lamb,
which is in the midgt of the throne, shall feed them, and shall lead
them unto living fountains of waters : and God shall wipe away all
tears from their eyes."
While in this world, then, we are called upon to show our alle¬
giance to God. Is the Being who made, the arm that protects, the
Saviour who bled, the Spirit that so kindly draws—are these be¬
loved ? Here is the place to exhibit such love. Yea, among these
9
obstacles to holiness, these enemies to righteousness, is the position
where it should be shown whether we are for or against God.
There is a'soldier clad in the array of battle. To his command¬
er he has pledged himself, come good or come evil. To his cause
he has sworn to be faithful, so long as his pulses play their part,
and one crimson drop courses through his veins. And when is it,
that he shall show his allegiance ! Shall it be, when the battle is
over, the victory won, and the conqueror returning in triumph ?
Or shall it be in the midst of the din of contest, when armor clangs
on armor, when warriors stand knee to knee and aim the deadly
blow, when the battle-field is strewed with the dead and the
dying ?
Who doubts the answer ? If not, who can doubt the part, which*
we are called upon to act during life ? Whoever loves his God, is
required to make his affection manifest. Putting on the whole ar¬
mor, he should show forth his praises, who called him to be a sol¬
dier ; and not only a soldier, but also a conqueror; for the battle
fought, he will receive the crown of victory and righteousness,
prepared for all the faithful followers of the Messiah.
Farther—Let me remind you to beware of neglecting to study
and meditate upon the truths of the Bible.
The Psalmist attached great'importance to this subject. The
word of God had such a share in his affections, as to occasion
emotions of thrilling pleasure. Its truths were so absorbing, that
they gained attention not only amid the reflections of the day, but
were dwelt upon during the wakeful hours of the night.
It surely cannot be wise to disregard what is a lamp to our feet,
and a light to our path. Let the rays shine ever so brightly ; if
our eyes are blinded, or if we will not be careful to learn and pur¬
sue thp way pointed out, we must expect nothing else than to stum¬
ble and wander amid the mazes of error. Be the beacon ever so
brilliant, it benefits not the mariner, who will not improve by the
instruction which it conveys. The Bible is comparatively a sealed
book to multitudes who have it in possession, and who by a little
attention might learn and inwardly digest its invaluable truths.
JNone of you, my hearers, can reasonably hope for spiritual pros¬
perity, unless there bennuch study and reflection upon the truths
of the Bible. You need to know your own characters correctly,
obtaining a view of the depths of pollution existing in the heart of
2
10
man. You need to behold in its real light the plan of God for re¬
conciling sinners unto himself, discerning its bearings upon the
guilty,and its influence upon the divine government. 'You need to
perceive the character of Jehovah, and contrasting your own im¬
purity with his purity, learn to abhor yourselves' and repent in
dust and ashes. This necessary knowledge can be obtained • but
from one source. If, therefore, th\i desire exists in your bosoms
to be spiritually fruitful, be persuaded to make the Bible your con¬
stant companion. It is a mine, that appears the more valuable, the
farther it is penetrated. Thb thousandth perusal will present you
with a gem never before discovered. The more it is studied, the
plainer will dpty appear; the more its truths are meditated upon,
'the rtiore beautiful will they seem ; the more carefully its precepts
are obeyed, the more holy will the life and character become.
Again—Recollect that the love of the. world hinders spiritual
prosperity.
Men are placed in the moral vineyard of God. The influences
of the Holy Spirit descend upon them, as the rain cometh down
from heaven and causes the growth of the vegetable world. Je¬
sus Christ, the Sun of Righteousness, enlightens their minds and
[• enlivens their energies, as the nJtural sun cheers the face of nature
and diffuses abroad animation and vigor.
But the love of the world is a barrier to all these beneficial in¬
fluences. It is like the black and heavy cloud, which prevents the
rays of the sun from shining upon the earth. It is like the drought,
whi,ch hinders the sprouting of vegetation, or causes it to wither
' when it has taken root and sent forth its-tender herbage.
It is the aim of rinany to accomplish what ever has been, and
■ever will be,-in utter impossibility., They wish to enjoy this
world and likewise be the heirs of heaven. It is their desjre to
gather the straws and particles of earth, and still to secure the
crown which is proffered by the merciful Saviour, They wislr to
enter the gate of life, but are also desirous to introduce through
the straight and narrow entrance the incumbrances of the world.
This attempt, however, is an entire failure. One or the other must
be surrendered. The constituents are entirely contradictory, and
it is impossible that they should ever coalesce. They are mutual
destroyers. If love of the world exists in the bosom supremely,
its influence corrodes every spiritual feeling. If the love of God
11
dwells in the heart, its tendency is to make secondary every other
object of delight, and reign with supreme and delightful sway.
He, who loves the world pre-eminently, enlists himself under
the banner of the enemy of all righteousness. His weapons are
consequently not those, which are furnished from the armory of
God. How then, is it possible to . enjoy spiritual prosperity ?
ifhis can only be attained by taking the whole panoply of God,
and bravely contending with the being who has usurped the do¬
minion of the world. Casting off the usurper's allegiance will
secure prosperity to the soul; and make it, with the aid of Heaven,
.like^the tree planted by the rivers of water, bearing the verdant
leaf, and bringing forth fruit in its season.
Likewise—Be carefyl to avoid the neglect of prayer.
Prayer is want addressing itself where relief can be obtained.
It is, then, the-precise instrumentality needed by a sinful being.
Were man independent, did he possess powers adequate to contin¬
ue his own existence and supply his. necessities, far distant might
the thought of prayer be banished, from his mind. But he is the
worm crushed before the moth, and needs strength. He is blind,
and wanting a guide for his footsteps. He is famishing, and his
necessities demand the bread of life.
Strength, guidance, nourishment are prepared ; but it is the plan
of Heaven, that they who ask shall receive. If the soul would
be prosperous, it is required to present its situation to him, who
can bring relief; and if the spirit of the petitioner be correct, a
pledge is given that the request shall be granted.
Prayer is the channel of communication with man and God.
It is the mediunji, by which the soul may present its desires and
receive their fulfilment. It is the established plan of Jehovah for
granting aid ; and as spiritual advancement is obtained through the
kindness of God, his directions must be followed, if the desired
result would be enjoyed. * .
Men of prayer are, those, who have made great advances in pie¬
ty. Moses was a man, whose moral stature was immense ; and
his prayerful spirit was as manifest as his astonishing genius. Dan¬
iel could endure persecution and disgrace, rather than be deprived
of his accustomed intercourse with his God.
The exercise of prayer is not only the system, which has been
instituted for the conveyance of blessings to men and for the fulfil-
12
ment of the designs of mercy; but it commends itself on account
of the beneficial influence exerted upon tfiose engaged in its prac¬
tice. Can the rude savage mingle in civilized society, and not feel
some of its influence ? And can a man place himself sincerely and
devotedly in the presence of God, and not tje affected ?
This, however, does not contradict the declaration, " If I regard
iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me." Whoever ap¬
proaches before God in the indulgence of sin, does not present
himself in a sincere and devout manner. And yet it is true, that
he, who is daily within the influence of prayer, will probably ex¬
hibit a more correct deportment than if he were otherwise situated,
although in each case his heart continue in an impenitent state.
The effect is beneficial to society, even while the individual him¬
self may not be made happy in eternity. The place of prayer is
holy ; the soul is awed in the presence of her Maker; this impres¬
sion exerts at least a temporary, salutary effect.
Again—Remember that high expectations are excited hy a
profession of religion.
Where piety exists, the obligation to make it known cannot be
rendered void. If those who possess it are like light, the fact can¬
not be concealed. Such are worshippers of the true God, and
every worshipper is bound to give evidence of his devotipn, show¬
ing whether the object of his reverence is some fancy of the brain,
or similar to an ancient or modern idol, or the true and only Jeho¬
vah. If we are members of the family of heaven, it cannot be
but the resemblance shall be exhibited, and some act performed
evidencing our connection with such an exalted race. Being chris¬
tians, we are the subjects of the King of Zion ; and if it is not ex¬
pected that any one can be a legitimate member of an earthly do¬
minion without showing his allegiance, surely it is not to be sup¬
posed that the Almighty Sovereign will recogniseas true subjects
those who present no form of attachment. Indeed, if there be any
question Upon this point, it is decisively settled in the Scriptures :
He who confesseth Christ before men, will be confessed by him
before his Father; while he, who denieth or refuses to acknowledge
him, will not be acknowledged before the Father and the holy
angels.
This profession the christian makes. Seeing himself naturally
in the gall of bitterness and under the bond of iniquity ; believing
13
that by the grace of God, his iniquities have been'pardoned 5 per-
ceiving his obligation to testify to what his Redeemer has done for
his soul ; feeling a strong desire to secure all those influences,
which will aid him to be faithful, and assist him in his attempts af¬
ter holiness;—he publicly avouches Jehovah as his God, Christ as
his Saviour, the Holy Spirit as Ins Sanctifier,'Comforter and Guide.
He prbfesses much, and he sincerely aims at accomplishing much.
Actuated by new views and feelings, he knows that he is not the
man he once was, The line of separation in spiritual things has
been voluntarily drawn between him and his former associates.—
Gladly would he have them bear him company; but their neglect
does not destroy his responsibility, their carelessness will not se¬
cure his soul, their final despair will not mollify the inflictions of
his smiting conscience. By his public declaration, by his avowed
feelings, by his exalted aims, he announces that he himself once
was wrong, and he fully believes that all who do not take Christ
• as their Saviour and make God supreme are also wrong. His posi¬
tion is a testimony against the world, an avowal that religion is
the thing to be supremely desired, and an invitation to his ac¬
quaintances to come and obtain for themselves enduring riches.
The interests of piety are'to a great extent within his keeping.—■
As he lives, the cause of God is honored or despised.
There is, then, an illustrious hostage given to public opinion—
one no less than the honor of the religion of the cross. How de¬
sirable that it be not tarnished. How important that the pledge
given should be promptly and scrupulously redeemed. How care¬
ful and constant should be the aim to live correctly ; lest Christian¬
ity being stigmatised be compelled to exclaim, save me, oh! save
me, from my friends !
Also—Be impressed with the fact, that the world's eye is upon
you for the purpose of beholding the excellencies of your reli¬
gion.
The. enjoyment, which the soul's native powers demand, can
never be here obtained. All below is vanity. Though much is
promised, the pledge is not fulfilled. As the rainbow, beautiful to
the beholder, but evanescent; so aie the prospects of earth. The
colors are rich, and the appearances of enjoyment flaftering; but
unsubstantial, they pass away with the hour that gave them exist¬
ence. Man's restless desires after happiness constantly keep him
14
in the chase, although upon the objects there can be no dependance.
At length, wearied with the hope that the world fosters, which,
" Like a pillar of smoke,
That with majestic energy from earth
Eises, but having reached the thinner air,
Melts and dissolves, and is no longer seen,"
many turn from sheer necessity to Christianity, to see if it will
confer the bliss for which they sigh.
Often, instead of going to the Bible to learn its nature, they
examine the lives of its professors. They go, not to the, fountain
to behold the stream as it gushes from its-source; but it is scrutin¬
ized, after it has-passed through such imperfect vessels as are par¬
tially sanctified christians. . Those who profess the. religion of
Christ are considered as its representatives. And. though- it is an
unwise way of judging, yet it is true, that in multitudes of in¬
stances, Christianity is regarded as having the very character which-
the lives of its advocates exhibit.
In view of such a fact, it is not astonishing, that the exhorta¬
tion is given, " Be ye perfect, even as your Father which is in
heaven, is perfect." The honor of God is concerned. The
world's eye is upon the believer ; the believer is Jehovah's repre¬
sentative ; the representative impresses favorably or unfavorably
for the cause of his Sovereign. Many, sick of earth, are the spec¬
tators. They seek a better way. Pierced with many wounds,
baffled in their most confident plans, overwhelmed with their sad
prospects, troubled with the reproaches of conscience, awakened
by the Spirit of God to look for something substantial; they turn
to what appears likely to meet their case, dry up their tears, Calm
their perturbed spirits, and give them lasting peace. Better were
it, to go to the sun itself. But in their agitation, this is oftentimes
forgotten. They gaze upon the experience and conduct of beings
like themselves. They desire a practical exhibition of the princi¬
ples of piety. They wish to see the problem of religion solved.
Surrounded thus by witnesses desirous of the truth, it becomes
God's followers to walk circumspectly. They are making impres¬
sions for eternity. Their lives are influencing others for weal or
for woe. Though the wicked are responsible for their own con¬
duct ; yet, inasmuch as a sense of responsibility is painful, they
gladly shelter themselves wherever peace is promised. And no
15
place seems more satisfying to some minds than the imperfections
of the church. Would it ,were otherwise. But such is the fact.
So long, therefore, as the fact exists, the christian's life will be aid¬
ing in the formation of others' character, engraving lineaments'that
time will not blot out, helping to fix destinies as enduring as the
revolution of eternity.
Besides—Forget not that men generally will judge you by
your actions, hot your feelings.
A penitent state of mind has characterised the saints of God in
all ages. The standard, " Be ye holy,'; is so elevated, that an im¬
perfect being, surrounded with temptation, and candidly consider¬
ing his conduct, will always find occasion for humiliation and con¬
trition. His general condition will make this his Habitual feeling.
But it will be more marked, when under, the power of antagonist
influences, his wandering has been more flagrant and his defection
more outrageous.
Herein exists one striking difference between the mere moralist
and the genuine disciple. In an unguarded moment, the christian
may perform an act or utter an expression as reprehensible, or more
so, than that of the carefully-stepping moral man. But while the
latter thinks nothing of the error, or at the most is only mortified
that he has fallen in the sight of his fellow-men ; the former lays
the subject to heart, not only because he has given others occasion
to think lightly of his religion, but also in consequence'of the dis¬
honor thrown upon his God. Were himself the only party con¬
cerned, he could easily bear the reproach. But ah ! there is an¬
other object dearer than his own honor, prosperity, or existence.
He is the professed epistle of Heaven. His mistake will be told
in Gath, and the sons and daughters of the uncircumcised will re¬
joice, The comparison will be instituted between Dagon's subjects
and Jehovah's. The inference drawn, that the one is no holier
than the other, when their followers are no better. This wakes
up penitence,'causes deep humiliation, makes the bosom heave,
and the place of secret devotion a witness of his love to God, and
his sincere, heart-broken, and overwhelming regret, that he,
whom with the whole heart he adores, should be dishonored by
his hapless, unguarded, and sinful errors.
But this penitence is not in its true character fully &en. A
similar mistake may never again be committed. Confession—and
16
in such cases, confession of the error ought always to be made to
all the witnesses, if it be possible—confession sincer'e may be ex¬
hibited ; still the secret feelings cannot here be completely brought
to light. , Could the heart be penetr ated ; could the shades ot regret
be distinctly discovered; could the deep, honest, and thrilling
penitence of the soul strike the observer's eye ;—then the caviller
might be silenced, and the vain boaster be made to acknowledge, that
the christian's religion is purer, more refining, and more elevated
than his own pharisaical, external, and lifeless system. But this
cannot be. No other eye than that of Omniscience can fully see
the heart. The inward principlei'must be1 shown by the external
fruit. If religion would be honored, it must be by the life.—
Where thorns appear, men will not believe that they grow upon
the vine ; and where they see thistles, they will not be persuaded
that they are the product of the fig-tree. Faith is to be shown
by works, love by actions, holiness by the life.
Also—Remember, in immediate connection with the point just
illustrated, that some ivish to palliate their crimes by the chris¬
tian's failings.
In the hearts of the impenitent is a dislike to the holiness of
Christianity. This, by a perfectly natural process, is extended,
some times openly, at others secretly, to those who exhibit in their
lives to some good degree its purity. Many act, therefore, as does
one family having an antipathy toward another. They are pleased
with their neighbor's failure. They feel, that if his downfall does
not occasion their exaltation, it will at least reduce him to their
level.
So, behold that noble bird, now soaring with eye directed to¬
ward the sum And now, winged by the sportsman, see him falling
for a brief period to the earth. Now hark ! What dismal sounds
strike the ear, as the majestic one fails in his ascending flight ?
It is the chattering of the raven, that, loving the refuse of earth;
and envious of the monarch of the air, whose elevated taste dis¬
dains such degradation; is delighted with the prostration to his
own level of one, whose nature would lead him to a more digni¬
fied sphere.
Scarcely any thing disturbs the conscience of the wicked, so
much as the holy life of a christian. They may have presented to
them the pure principles of the gospel; these may come with all
17
the sanctions of the law, thundering forth the necessity of the
plan of salvation-; even the nail, and the spear, and the groan of
the crucifixion may add their testimony, in showing the baseness
of sin, its doom, and the hopelessness of the unrenewed sinner.
But all,these startling ideas lose their efficacy, so long as Christiani¬
ty is only viewed as a well-contrived theory. So indifferent is the
speculative believer, that he remains unmoved, while the thunder,
and lightning, and smoke of Sinai are rolling, and flashing, and
bursting over his head ; and under his feet are Calvary's quaking
earth, and rending rocks, and opening graves, All is oftentimes
vain, until the subject is seen in the light of practice. Let the life
of the humble, conscientious, and prayerful christian be discovered,
and the indifference often disappears. Alarm takes the place of
apathy. Conscience, aroused, utters its voice. The command¬
ment comes, and sin is apparent. Agitated, overwhelmed, almost
despairing, the sinner cries in anxious accents: What shall I do to
be saved ?
Oh ! how powerful the force of truth, .when exemplified in liv¬
ing reality. It is no longer mere theory.. It is then emphatically
the word of God, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to
the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, of the joints and marrow,
and a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. The ar¬
rows of the Almighty are driven deep into the soul. And there
they rankle, till extracted by the Great Physician; or till resistance
to the truth produces stupefaction, obstinacy, and reprobation.
Afid this sad result may be occasioned by inconsistency in those
of whom better things are expected. While under conviction, the
sinner seeks some shelter short of the cross of Christ. Let him in
his search behold such irregularity in the professor as to induce the
belief, that religion is but a theory ; and possibly, nay probably,
his convictions will be weakened, his conscience lulled to repose,
the spirit of God take flight, and deep anxiety no more pervade
his bosom till the knell of death makes too late an attempt to turn
unto God.
Yet again—Recollect that a holy life is the best kind of proof
of being converted.
Nothing can be more consoling than a well-founded persuasion
that we have been born again. But, " be not deceived; God is
not mocked." Sure evidence cannot rest upon our knowledge,.
3
18
though we may have sufficient to comprehend all mysteries; nor
upon our joy, be it ever so ecstatic ; nor upon our hopes, though
they give strong confidence; nor upon our convictions, though by
them we were almost driven to despair ; nor upon the peace that
followed these distressing impressions, be it ever so calming and
consoling; nor upon our standing in the church, though long-con¬
tinued and respectable ; nor upon our full belief in the sovereign¬
ty of God, his electing love, and the perseverance of saints.—
If our evidences rest upon either or all of these, they may be fal¬
lacious. They may be found like the spider's web, in the day of
trial. And though abandoning them now may be as the giving up
of the ghost; yet it may be, they will fail us in that hour, when
we most need something substantial.
Often is it asked, how may I know that I am a christian ?—
Probably, the best answer is, when your internal feelings and ex¬
ternal actions correspond with the traits mentioned in the Bible.
The life within and without must present the evidence. Faith, un¬
accompanied with holy emotions and holy acts, is dead. Trusting
implicitly, unconditionally, supremely in Christ, is the only way
to obtain pardon and become reconciled to God. But such a trust
is a living faith. And a living faith is the enemy of all sin.
Then, he who does not live aright must see, if his eyes are open
and his conscience tender, that his evidence is not satisfactory.
Consequently, doubt, gloom, fearful forebodings follow. If a man
lives wrong, and yet has full confidence of being saved, the proba¬
bility is strong, that he is building on the sand. Alarm is better
than false security; careful living, even with doubt, better than
carelessness with false trust, But the believer's privilege is to
have evidence that is encouraging and in the main satisfactory; to
mount up on wings as eagles, run and not'be weary, walk and not
faint; to have that water, which, as was said to the woman of Sa¬
maria, shall be a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
Still farther—Remember that the measure of future glory
and enjoyment is to a great extent dependent upon our faith¬
fulness in this life.
There are no broken or partially filled vessels in the upper
World. All there are according to their measure complete, wheth¬
er they are those who have always remained firm in holiness, or
those younger-born spirits who have been introduced from this
19
earthly sphere, v Their capacity, however, is various. Gabriel
stands nearer the burping throne and enjoys more of the glorious
presence than many of his companions; and doubtless, faithful.
Abraham, *knd devoted Moses, and Israel'sheaven-inspired Psalm¬
ist, have views and degrees of joy, unknown to their brethren
who have be*en partakers of the same salvation. The flight there
is upward. The scale is progressive. Still, the point of standing
depends, with regard to our race, upon their powers and the im¬
provement which their faithfulness and industry shall here ac¬
complish. ' V
This view of the subject will be confirmed, if it is considered
that in the judgment men will be rewarded u according to" their
works.. The scriptural distinction between the expressions, " for
their works," and according to their works," is worthy of at¬
tention. None of our race are admitted to the regions of eternal,
happiness, " for," or " on account of" their own deeds. Were
this the case, the salvation wrought out by the Saviour would be a
useless effort; the infinite expense to which he exposed himself
would be without cause. The attainment of heaven " is not of
' works, lest any man should boast;" but through free, unmerited,
sovereign grace. And yet, this is in perfect consistency with re¬
warding men, after this grace has been bestowed upon thepj, ac¬
cording as they improve their faculties and privileges. Therefore,
as one star differeth from another star in glory, so will the saints
appear more or less glorious in the upper world, according as they
are here more or less faithful and diligent.
This same sentiment is also exhibited in the principle establish¬
ed in the government of God, that " whatsoever a man soweth,
that shall he also reap ; for he that soweth to the flesh, shall of the
flesh reap corruption ; but he that soweth to the Spirit, shall of the
Spirit reap life everlasting." Let, then, the seeds of grace be
abundantly sown, and an abundant harvest will be reaped in that
world, where the sun never sets, and where reaping time shall
never end.
Again—Forget not that this life is the period to put in opera¬
tion what will do good to others.
Every individual is exerting an influence upon these by whom
he is immediately surrounded ; and through them upon those re¬
siding at a distance, and upon many who shall compose future gen-
20
erations. Consequently, he, who would most extensively do
good, should not only labor for daily results; but also, place in
operation such a system of means as will benefit his successors.
If immediate effects are desired, the effort must at once be made.
Our own existence in this life is uncertain ; so also that of those
to wh,om we would do good. A slight accident may place them
beyond the reach of aid, the shroud enclosing them, and they bu¬
ried in the embrace of our mother earth. What is done for those
around us, must be done quickly. Death—ah ! death—respects
none. His arrow pierces him1, unprepared for eternity-; as well as
him, whose loins are girt and who is attentively watching the sig¬
nal of departure.
If the desire exists to benefit those dwelling in other lands, the
same rapidity of action is requisite.' Every year conveys its
thousands to the future state ;' where the body will sleep till the
morn, when the trumpet sounds, and the dead, small and great,
stand before God. The present generation can only be assisted
during the present fleeting period. Numbers will this day die,
and help can this day alone be beneficial. If not now snatched
from ruin, they perish.
If it is wished to establish something to aid those who will
hereafter live, the brevity of our own life requires immediate and
vigorous action. How many plans for improving the condition of
man has death rendered abortive ! How many projected enter¬
prises been blasted before they bloomed ! And on the other hand,
how much have some accomplished for future generations, by
properly improving their fleeting'hours ! Those men, who have
translated the word of life into the language used by an unevangeD
ized nation, have not lived in vain ; nor they, who have founded
the sanctuaries of the Most High God upon such a basis, that for
a long period they will enable the heralds of salvation to proclaim
its glorious truths ; nor they, by whose wealth religions institutions
are endowed ; nor they, who, by judicious, faithful, and prayerful
management, have trained up a family of pious children to be their
successors. It is said, that " one sinner destroyeth much good
and it may be truly added, on the other hand, that one righteous
man may effect much that will be beneficial to both the present
and future generations.
To you, who are disposed to do good, a wide field is open to
your enterprise. It consists of those near you, of those in other
21
lands, of unborn millions. Your energies employed to the utmost
will find ample scope.
Glance over your own country. See one, whose profanity
shows his thoughtlessness of God ; another, whose intemperance is
injuring body and soul;■ a third, disregarding the command, " Re¬
member the Sabbath-day, to keep it holyanother, whose licen¬
tiousness marks him for ruin, as well as occasioning others' destruc¬
tion ; still another, whose gaming habits have almost obliterated
every relic of moral principle; also, the moral sinner, deluding
himself with the hope of heaven ; him, too, acknowledging his
duty, but postponing the work of repentance; and another, whose
infidel principles lead him to despise the only light, J;hat can safely
guide the wanderer through this world and introduce him to a fu¬
ture state of happiness. Though their conduct would indicate,
that, they are like the brutes which perish ; yet each of those forms
possesses a deathless spirit. Each one is destined for immortality.
When the present scene is passed, they will enter upon a flight
upward and onward and blissful ; or else, they will commence a
descent dark and cheerless and remorseful. They must live;—and
live forever!
Look, then, at one soul, so valuable that with it nothing in crea¬
tion can be compared. Like some priceless gem, let it be appa¬
rent. Then, let a world of souls cluster round this invaluable ob¬
ject. Regard them—in the light of their intrinsic worth—their
responsibility to God—and their everlasting destiny.
In view of such a scene—so solemn, so imposing, so sublime—
let it be inquired, whether the effort to effect their salvation is a
worthy attempt ? Nobleness of purpose, dignity of employment,
generosity, and the blessedness of the result, all reply in the affirma¬
tive. Every soul saved will add to the lustre of the crown, placed
on his head, who has secured his own spiritual safety, and been
instrumental in others' salvation. It is proper to tax all our pow¬
ers to aid him, who has been plunged into the swelling stream;
but with much more propriety, may we exert all our energies to
seize those, sinking in the waves of eternal destruction. Many
are now within our reach; but soon, our efforts will be useless.
If ever benefitted, it must be within a short period.
We and they are hurrying to the grave. During the past years,
while the one now addressing you has been preaching in this place,
some of our fellow-laborers have fallen; some, too, of our fellow-
22
citizens. Whether prepared or not, it is not for us, but the Judge,
to decide. These are gone. We remain. And while thus re¬
maining, the unconverted are sinking around us. Whether we
stand idle or not, they disappear. One, and another, and still
others, are engulphed by the ocean of eternity. And oh ! how
impressively speak the places already vacated, the bubbling Waters,
and the closing waves.
Once more—Remember always your need of the Spirit of
God.
He regenerates, strengthens, sanctifies, and guides. Through
his influences,, the spiritual life is commenced ; by the same agent,
advance is made in the path of piety ; when your efforts to bring
men to the knowledge of the truth are succeeded by him, then
alone are they really successful. Vain is it, to trust in your own
power. Walk without him, and you stumble. Secure his aid by
prayer.' Resist him not by sinful indulgence. Never even grieve
the Spirit of God, by whom ye are sealed unto the day of redemp¬
tion.
Having thus called these truths to your remembrance, allow the
to say, in conclusion, Young Men, the vows op God are upon
you ! Most of you, inviting me to deliver this discourse, pro¬
fessed publicly in this place, fpr the first time, your entire conse¬
cration to the cause of Jehovah. This profession was voluntarily,
and we strove that it should be uiiderstandingly, sincerely, and de¬
liberately made. To the world, innocently, you cannot go back.
Onward, onward, is to be your motto. Before you, if you perse¬
vere, is the beauteous ornament of a perfect, christian character.
Your religious' influence, if zealous and dependent on God, may
affect your immediate circle; and through them, even if personal¬
ly you visit no other shores, the farthest bounds of the habitable
world. Life over, if you are truly converted, the chaplet of eter¬
nal glory will adorn your brows.
All the past is registered in the book of God. At the opening
of that book, you and I must be present. Spiritual children of
those who have here labored, I charge you—as your former im¬
penitent carelessness, your night of conviction, your anxious in¬
quiries for salvation, your earnest stragglings into life, your peace¬
ful or joyful hopes, your public vows, your influence for good or