^i^roTpmcifS^s^ 
 
 ^^^omuij^^^ 
 
 RX 9185 .M5 1858 
 ^Minister of the Church of 
 
 //eSetian liturgies 
 
y 
 
 PRESBYTERIAN LITURGIES 
 
 WITH 
 
 SPECIMENS OF FORMS OF PRAYER 
 
 FOR 
 
 WORSHIP 
 
 AS USED IN THE CONTINENTAL REFORMED, & AMERICAN CHURCHES ; 
 
 WITH THE 
 
 ^xmtmu for t|c |ttMit »rsft dm 
 
 AGREED UPON BY THE ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES AT WESTMINSTER ; 
 
 AND 
 
 FORMS OF PRAYER 
 
 FOR ORDINARY AND COMMUNION SABBATHS, AND FOR OTHER 
 SERVICES OF THE CHURCH. 
 
 a'^MINISTER of the church of SCOTLAND. 
 
 " Let aU things be done decently and in order."— 1 Cor. xiv. 4C. 
 
 EDINBURGH: 
 
 MYLES MACPHAIL, 11 SOUTH ST. DAVID STREET. 
 
 GLASGOW : T. MURRAY & SON. LONDON : SIMPKIN, MARSHALL & CO. 
 DUBLIN : M'GLASHAN & GILL. 
 
 1858. 
 
TO 
 
 JOHN SMITH, ESQ.. MD. 
 
 WHOSE SUGGESTION THE WORK WAS UNDERTAKEN, 
 
 THIS Y(3LUME 
 
 IS RESPECTFULLY PEDICATED. 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 Readers of the succeeding pages, not knowing the circum- 
 stances of the case, may look upon wliat follows as wanting 
 in unity of purpose and design. 
 
 It may, therefore, be proper to explain that the germ of 
 the first portion of the work appeared in an article contri- 
 buted, some months since, to a periodical published in tliis 
 city, which excited considerable interest in the minds of some 
 individuals interested in the subject, and which, in an ex- 
 panded form, was afterwards republished. 
 
 For convenience sake tlie Westminster Assembly's Direc- 
 tory for the Worship of God, is now added, the Editor being 
 persuaded, that the valuable matter which it contains is too 
 much overlooked, and that there are many lay-members of 
 the Church who are almost in ignorance of the existence of 
 such a Manual. 
 
 For the concluding portion of this publication, the Editor 
 is responsible. He has no wish to depreciate the endeavours 
 of other labourers in the same field,— but while conscious of 
 shortcomings in the execution of what is now presented to 
 
the public, at the same time, he is not without hope that 
 some help may thence be derived by Students of Divinity, 
 Probationers, and others ; as also that it may not be uninte- 
 resting to Members of the Church at large, to have a record 
 and memorial of services as conducted in that branch of 
 Christ's Church to wliich they belong. 
 
 Edinburgh, May 1858. 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 The Genevese Chiircb, ^ 
 
 Form of Church Pi-ayer at Geneva, 
 
 fonn for Administration of Lord's Supper, (American 
 
 Reformed Dutch Church), 
 A Funeral Service, (from do.) - 
 Prayers for Festival Seasons, 
 An " Act of Humiliation " for the deatli of Christ 
 Is an Addition to the Material for Praise m the 'public 
 
 Worship of God desirable '? 
 
 Letter irom Dr Smith to Eev. Dr Crawford, Convener of Assem- 
 bly s Committee, on Aids to Devotion 
 
 P.HX II. DxHBcxoH. .OK XHE P.Buc WoHSHiP 0. Gon, agreed 
 
 upon by the Assembly of Divines at Westminster, 
 Papx in. Forms ani> Services or xh« CnrRcn or Scoxl..i,. 
 
 Marriage Service, 
 
 Baptismal Service, 
 
 Funeral Service, 
 
 Forenoon Sabbath Service, 
 
 Afternoon Sabbath Service, 
 
 16 
 18 
 
 21 
 26 
 
 35 
 
 43 
 
 53 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 Communion Sabbath Service-Morniug, ■ 
 Introductory Prayer, 
 Action Sermon; - 
 Fencing of the Tables, 
 Consecration Prayer, 
 First Table Service, 
 Second Table Service, 
 Third Table Service, 
 Fourth Table Service, 
 Concluding Address, 
 Prayer after Communion, - 
 Communion Sabbath-Evening Service, 
 
 Discourse, 
 
 Concluding Prayer, 
 The Licensing of a Probationer, 
 The Ordination of a Minister, - 
 The Ordination of Elders, 
 
 Piige 
 47 
 
 49 
 51 
 63 
 67 
 
 08 
 72 
 75 
 79 
 82 
 85 
 
 87 
 ib. 
 98 
 
 100 
 102 
 115 
 
PRESBYTERIAN LITURGIES 
 
 SPECIMENS OF FORMS OF PRAYER. 
 
 An experiment has been lately tried in Edinburgh respecting 
 the method of celebrating public worship, which, if not 
 interfered with by the Church judicatories, as after a consi- 
 derable period it has not been, may lead to important conse- 
 quences. Dr Robert Lee, on the re-opening of Old Grey- 
 friars' Church, is said to have deviated to a somewhat startling 
 extent from the accustomed manner amongst us of conducting 
 the public worship of God in the sanctuary. Very plain and 
 ungainly the ancient building of Old Greyfriars was, nor has 
 its exterior been susceptible of any considerable measure of 
 improvement. But on entering, a somewhat novel spectacle 
 is presented. "With more or less taste, every window has 
 been filled with stained glass, to an extent, we confess, that 
 suggests the idea almost of a religious toy. There are me- 
 morial windows, commemorative of various eminent indivi- 
 duals, most of whom ministered within the building — through 
 which a dim religious light penetrates upon what is considered 
 to be one of the more knowing and philosophical congrega- 
 tions in our city. The galleries have been removed, and the 
 pulpit has vanished — a platform of no great height, running 
 instead along the east end of the church, which platform 
 might bear, with little alteration, no small resemblance to an 
 altar.* The pews are so constructed, that if hassocks be 
 placed in them, there is no hindrance to kneeling ; while the 
 elders have places arranged for them in front of the minister, 
 
 * Since we wrote we see that this piirt of the originiil arraugeraents, is, we presume 
 for acoustic reysons, about to be in some measure altered. As there are no gal- 
 leries in the church, we should imagine that a very slight additional elevation will 
 be sufficient. 
 
and the choir have their place assigned behind the congrega- 
 tion, who, we must further mention, are understood to stand 
 while the singing proceeds. Nor is this the whole amount 
 of alteration, if rumour be correct. The worship is conducted 
 according to what is understood by the minister to be the 
 spirit of the Directory of the Westminster Assembly of 
 Divines. The clergyman is said to read the prayers out of 
 a book, and the people are alleged to be invited at the close 
 of each branch of the petitions, to give their response, thus 
 audibly expressing their concurrence with what has been 
 uttered ; while the service in the forenoon is also alleged to be 
 almost wholly devotional — consisting of prayer, singing, and 
 the reading of two chapters of Scripture, with merely a run- 
 ning commentary, and a few interjected remarks — the ser- 
 mon, which has hitherto occupied so very prominent a place 
 at each diet of Scottish worship, being reserved for the after- 
 noon — an arrangement, we should have said, in the case of 
 any one less able and well furnished with matter, than Dr 
 R. Lee, undoubtedly affording nearly the w^hole amount of 
 leisure and restricted composition which usually attaches to 
 the enjoyment of a collegiate charge. 
 
 It is not our intention to enter at large into the question, 
 whether extempore and unpremeditated prayer be preferable 
 to a liturgical form, but only, from materials before us, to 
 which our space prevents us from doing full jlistice, to furnish 
 some specimens of forms, other than those contained in the 
 English Book of Common Prayer, adopted by the Continen- 
 tal and American Presbyterian Churches. Regarding the 
 changes made in Old Greyfriars' Church, we are far from 
 expressing any positive condemnation. It would, we fear, 
 be next to impossible to conciliate for such innovations the 
 acquiescence of our country artisans and peasantry ; since, 
 be it right or wrong, they have learned to look upon practices 
 of this kind, as being at variance with the simplicity of 
 Presbyterian worship, and as a departure from the rigorous 
 abstinence from what is comely or ornamental in the practice 
 of which they have been nurtured. When we remember 
 that invery many of our country districts, the reading of 
 
sermons is disliked, and the minister is constrained to the 
 drudgery of painfully mandating every portion of his dis- 
 courses, we can hardly expect toleration for the reading of 
 prayers, however well-composed, and though pervaded by a 
 spirit of the deepest piety. Be it right or wrong, there are 
 thousands of our communicants who would imagine that, 
 under this, they detected a shred of the Episcopal lawn, or 
 that the expedient was had recourse to, in order to prove a 
 cloak for the laziness of the clergyman. 
 
 Yet it is true, that, previous to the Westminster Assembly, 
 there was in Scotland a " Book of Common Order," — a psalter 
 richer and better than that of Rome ; and that there pre- 
 vailed a nobler and more heart-stirring method of devotion. 
 The old Scottish " Book of Prayer," which we would by no 
 means assert to be a manual fit for present use, had been 
 solemnly recognised as the authorised formulary of the na- 
 tional worship; it had been repeatedly commended to accep- 
 tance by the General Assembly ; was carefully guarded from 
 corruption, and ordered to be translated into Gaelic. It 
 was continuously issued from the press, in a handsome form, 
 down even to 1635 ; and we are told that, down to 1620, 
 ministers who declined to adopt the English Book of Prayer 
 followed the method it pointed out in observing the ordinance 
 of the Lord's Supper. The Church of Scotland, it thus 
 appears, while presbyterian in government, was not ante- 
 liturgical. 
 
 We own that reform in the mode of conducting our ser- 
 vices, would not be inexpedient. The ^^ preachings" — the 
 " hearing"' of so and so, — the manner in which the worship 
 of the Almighty, which ought ever to be gravely and decently 
 conducted, is too frequently compressed into a corner, that 
 greater scope may be afforded for a sermon of extreme 
 length, too often places the instruction, nay even the pander- 
 ing to a fixlse and vicious taste on the part of the hearers. — in 
 the foreground ; while in many congregations, from want of 
 proper training and help, the only portion of the service in 
 which the congregation can as yet cordially take part, is mise- 
 rably ill-conducted. Then again, how frequently do we hear 
 
6 
 
 prayers which much more resemble the address of the mini- 
 ster to the hearers — the laboured repetition of every item of a 
 reputed orthodox creed, — than the humble penitent commun- 
 ing of man with his Maker ? To render the prayers offered 
 in churches more generally what they ought to be, some help 
 might advantageously be provided, at least, for many a mini- 
 ster to use in his study ; a help at once more definite and 
 fuller, than is afforded in the " Directory," now our only 
 authoritative guide ; one of the provisions, however, in which, 
 recommending the reading of two chapters of Scripture at 
 each meeting for public worship, one from the Old and the 
 other from the New Testament, or more of each, if the " co- 
 herence of the matter requireth," is with hardly a single 
 exception, systematically neglected. The exhortations of 
 man are thus placed above the reading of the holy Oracles. 
 Churches are too often converted into scenes of rhetorical 
 exhibition on the part of the minister, who has now-a-days 
 little chance of esteem, unless he be an eloquent and fluent 
 declaimer. The vacant parish thus often becomes the locale of 
 a mere preaching match: in which the people sit in judgment, 
 and wherein pictorial delineation and loudness of voice, with 
 a due admixture of animal excitement, are likely to be 
 esteemed far above a more sober, thoughtful, and unpretend- 
 ing style of discourse. 
 
 A variety of circumstances lead us to think, that the ques- 
 tion regarding the propriety of using, to a certain extent, set 
 forms of prayer in public worship — for the sake not only of 
 avoiding those sins against good taste, and those burlesques 
 of worship with which we are too frequently scandalised, is 
 worthy of being entertained. That the employment of such 
 forms is unpresbyterian, is an objection wholly grounded on 
 ignorance : for the reformed churches on the Continent, 
 without an exception, have their liturgies, or set forms of 
 prayer ; and Knox, whom Scottish Presbyterians so deser- 
 vedly admire, himself compiled a '* Book of Common Order," 
 republished a good many years since by Dr Cumming of 
 London, but which we venture to say, is for the most part 
 wholly unfit for use in our time?. The objection o^ formality 
 
is equallv unfounded. The publicly oflered prayers oi^ every 
 minister, unless he adhere to an almost stereotyped arrange- 
 ment of thoughts aud phrases, must be a form to his cougre- 
 tration. If they are varied, this part of the service frequently 
 becomes an e^sercise of intellect on his part, and an eftbrt of 
 tixed attention not very favourable to the calmness of chas- 
 tened devotion on theirs : while, whatever- may be said as to 
 the advantage and superiority of free prayer at less formal 
 meetings or in the family, while the wants of the latter vary, 
 the great topics to be embraced in public sanctuary prayer, 
 are fixed and definite, requiring hardly any addition, except- 
 ing on occasion of extraordinary epochs or emergencies. 
 
 In thus expressing our opinion, we cannot say that such help 
 as is to be desiderated is to be in the main, or to any large ex- 
 tent derived from the liturgy of the Church of England, in its 
 present shape, styled though it be by many of her sons as "in- 
 comparable," and as '• all but inspired."' We know, indeed, 
 that the devout Hooker exclaimed on his death-bed, "Give me 
 the prayers of my mother the Church, — there are none like 
 her's ;" we admit the beauty of many of the incidental parts, 
 but we object to the "vain repetitions" in other portions, 
 caused by the conjoining into the morning service of devotions 
 which were intended to be kept apart — to the superstitious 
 rites that it seems occasionally to countenance, and to the 
 blemishes attaching alike to its baptismal and burial services, 
 — to the exceeding brevity of not a few of the prayers, still 
 shorter as contrasted with the length of the opening prefaces, 
 — aud to the reading over of the psalms without discrimina- 
 tion, by minister and people alternately. We object to the 
 manner in which the Scripture Lessons have been selected : 
 we can see no reason for the change of dress, or for the 
 •• bowing at the name of Jesus," except on the score of the 
 antiquity of the practice ; to the turning to the east, which 
 in many quarters assures us that we shall encounter a poor 
 mimicry of medieval devotion. We object to kneel before a 
 communion table, especially if called an altar, knowing that 
 this is contrary to the most ancient practice, and is at vari- 
 iuce with the spirit of the institution ; as decidedly as we 
 
8 
 
 protest against the practice of the Geneva Church, in this* 
 respect, with her people marching round to partake of the 
 elements of bread and wine : but we admire the pathetic and 
 striking litany of the Church of England and not a few of 
 her prayers. We think that a definite service for the admi- 
 nistration of the Sacraments, alike of Baptism and of the 
 Lord's Supper, is desirable in our Church. Let us have a 
 fixed form of invitation and caution, before our hearers are in- 
 vited to take part in the latter solemn rite, together with forms 
 for baptism, marriage, and burial. It is right so far, that 
 the accents of lowly contrite and believing prayer, should be 
 poured forth in the house of mourning ; but why, when cir- 
 cumstances permit, should not this service — and we would 
 think it would be better to have that of marriage also — be 
 performed in the church, or by the grave,* that thus, in the 
 latter instance from extreme aversion to practices that have 
 been abused, we shall no longer heap the mould and turf 
 above the inanimate form, as if the task should be got over as 
 speedily as possible, and the poor remains of mortality having 
 been summarily disposed of, the mourners panted again to 
 return to their every day occupation. 
 
 While making the above remarks, we are quite willing to 
 admit that the matter resolves itself, in Scotland, into a 
 question of expediency, — Scripture pronouncing no clear 
 opinion in favour of devotional forms. Xcr can we shut our 
 eyes to the fiict that without ability to conduct the prayer of 
 a congregation, no minister is fitted for the work of preaching, 
 and that if we consult the early writers, e.g. if we look into 
 Justin Martyr's description of the worship of the second cen- 
 tuiT, we find him saying that " the president or officiating 
 minister offers up prayer and thanksgiving — cfj; 6,a>a^/r a>r-* 
 
 according to his ability,'' which does not seem to imply 
 
 that his praver consisted in the repetition of a customary 
 form, no mental exertion in that case being required : while 
 of a similar nature is TertuUian's observafion, " Sim monilorej 
 quia de pectore oramus." 
 
 * No very long time has elapsed t^iace a luLuister, in tlie cii; of Penh, was called 
 to an explanation by the presbytery of wbich he was a member, on arcoont of bi« 
 having offered Tip prayer by the grave of a parisbioner : 
 
9 
 
 On this subject, and as stating in an interesting manner 
 both sides of the question, we may quote what follows from 
 the appendix to the work of Mr Baird, edited by Mr Binney 
 of London.* The appendix is in the form of a dialogue be- 
 tween several interlocutors, the question under discussion 
 being '' shall dissenters have a liturgy ?" The first is rather 
 a lengthened passage, but is full of matter for reflection : — 
 
 " Half-truths are often as dangerous as whole errors. You can con- 
 clude nothing from Paul's conduct in a Jewish sj-nagogue, as to what he 
 sanctioned in the Christian assemblies of the Church. Even in rhe sy- 
 nagogue, however, (as in Antioch in Pisidia.) he first joined in the order 
 of service, which I suppose would be in great part liturgical. The wor- 
 ship ended, he addressed the assembly ; and of course had to argue, and 
 demonstrate, and appeal to the understanding, because he was the advo- 
 cate and apostle of the new faith. Preaching, and such preaching, was 
 absolutely necessary to the introduction and establishment of the new 
 interpretation of the Prophets, and the new form of truth which he was 
 commissioned to make known. In such circumstances, too, the conduct 
 of the Bei'^ans was appropriate and praiseworthy ; it was fitting in men 
 who heard something for the first time, and heard it with wonder and 
 doubt. When, however, ChrUtiati believers came together, — when they 
 met as such, and for icrship, — it is not to be supposed that Paul's preach- 
 ing would be like that in the synagogue, or that the much-lauded Berean 
 spirit would be proper then. Christians met with mutual and entire 
 faith in the common salvation, to hear something for edification and 
 comfort, and to join in exercises which would afford utterance to their 
 new life. You can gather veiT little from the New Testament as to the 
 way in which the worship of the Cliristian Church was conducted. In 
 some places there was evidently a good deal of disorder, which I suppose 
 you would not imitate. Not seldom, perhaps, a church was mainly 
 ' taught' and ' admonished' by ' psalms and hymns and spiritual songs/ 
 which you miyht imitate, but won't. In quiet and well ordered assem- 
 blies, even in the Apostolic age, I am not sure that worship might not 
 soon take a well-understood form ; — nature and necessity would not only 
 favour this, but old associations, the precedents alike of temple and syna- 
 gogue, would contribute to it. There was always, I believe, on the first 
 day of the week. ' the breaking of bread ;' this, I can imagine, was the 
 great object for which the Church met, its high service — and the addi-ess 
 or exhortation of the bishop or presbyter would be a very simple and 
 spiritual affair. Paul, on one such occasion, preaching till midnight, is 
 not a precedent having in it the nature of fixed law ; neither is his es- 
 
 • A chapter on lirargies By the Rer. C. W. Baird, New Tort With a Pre&oe and an 
 Appendix touching the question " Are Dissenters to have a Liturgy ?" by the Rev. Thomaa 
 Binney. London : Knight i Son, CTerkenwell Oose, 
 
 B 
 
10 
 
 ample this, wLeu, a few days afterwards, he kneeled dowu on the sen 
 sliore and prayed with his friends. You can no more establish from the 
 one fact the sinfulness of reading a sermon, or of ending a Sunday even- 
 ing sprrice before twelve o'clock, than you can draw from the other an 
 inference against fornas of prayer. I believe in free prayer, and free 
 preaching too, as much as you do ; and in circumstauces similar to Paul's 
 Christians, the world over and throughout all time, will be ready, 1 doubt 
 not, to preach and pray as he did ; but it does not follow, that in uo 
 other circumstances, and at no time, can any different mode of either 
 praying or preachiiig be allowed ; — neither does it follow that there was 
 nothing else any where, in the Apostolic age, among all the assemblies 
 of the saints. 1 have sometimes thought that that glorious choral hymn 
 in the fifth chapter of Hevelation, though represented as sung iuheaveu. 
 uiight be but the reverberation, so to speak, of what was habitually heard 
 in the Church on earth. That early statement, too, of Christian customs, 
 which we have iu Pliny's letter to Trajan, is very remarkable. Lar Iner 
 referg the letter to the year 108, and translate-s the words I particularly 
 
 refer to — ' they (the Christians) affirmed that they were wont to 
 
 meet together . . . and sing among themselves altersatelt a hymn to 
 (/hrist.' The service alluded to was no doubt the Eucharist, the primi- 
 tive breaking of bread ; and the word ' invicem cannot mean less, I sup- 
 pose, than something antiphonal in the mode of conducting some pan of 
 the service. This, however, would imply the use of a fixed form, as, with- 
 out this, such alternate singing would be impracticable. I am well aware 
 that you may say, iu reply, that this proves nothing as to forms o( prayer; 
 and you may refer to the worship of the second century, and to Justin 
 Martyr, wlio says that the bishop offered juayers and thanksgivings be- 
 fore the Eucharist, • in the best way he could.' I am not careful to go 
 into these matters. 1 have uo question with you as to there being free 
 prayer in the primitive church, and that there should everywhere be fi^e 
 prayer still ; all I assert is, that I believe there was a tendency from the 
 very tirst to some fixed form of service. 1 think that prayer would corae 
 to be affected by this, and might b*" so without sin. An Apostolic Li- 
 turgy, the basis of all others, as some fondly dream, is, as I think, alto- 
 gether out of the question ; but 1 can adiuit tlie [irobabiliiy of a great 
 many early unwritten Liturgies, different churches falling into regular 
 forms of service, which the people could go through without book, espe- 
 cially when such books were ptiilous possessions: and though when 
 Liturgies were reduced to writing they became more and more monstrous, 
 and unuatural, as may be seen by anybody in Neale's History of the 
 Eastern Church, and similar works, yet I am not sure that we do not 
 lose something by repudiating liturgical services altogether. To return, 
 however, to the Apostolic age. 1 was saying that the brethren met to- 
 gether to break bread, and that then, I thought, the address ui the 
 l.i^ll<>). would be a very simple and spiritual exhortation. At other 
 
11 
 
 times, there was the preaching of the gospel, properly so callefl, to the 
 unconverted; and in certain circumstances, in the Church itself, there 
 was bold, argumentative defence of the trutli, and exposition of it, i'or 
 the instruction of the faithful and their protection against error. But 
 these things are different from Christian worship as such, and as it would 
 he conducted by a number of simple Christian men met together in unity 
 of spirit and in the bond of peace. 1 am well aware that we can hardly 
 draw a parallel between our great public mixed congregations, and a 
 select society of primitive believers ; but I am strongly inclined to think 
 that on the mornings of the Lord's day we should exclusively regard the 
 Church, spiritual persons, whether communicants or not, — that we should 
 conduct every thing as if none other were present, — give peculiar promi- 
 nence to worship, to Scripture, prayer, and ' the service of song ;' and be 
 content with a short, calm, yet earnest exhortation, — the Christian heart, 
 in the officiating minister, uttering itself, in a few pregnant, heavenly 
 words, directly to the heart, the Christian couscioiisuess, of the assem- 
 bled Church. On other parts of the day. to meet the state of nther classes 
 of persons, I would have worship to be less full, less ricli, and less pro- 
 minent; and r would have some one with gifts specially adapted to the 
 task, to bring the powers and forces of his intellect to the work of preach- 
 ing, in its various forms of declaring the gospel, expounding truth, com- 
 bating error, reproving sin, handling even politics, literature, science, 
 speaking to the age in its own language and on its own topics, — and^so 
 flashing the light of the Church on all the outlying and surrouudiug world. 
 But all Churches are one sided. We take our models from one aspect 
 of things, or from things fitted for particular epochs. The Jaith was at 
 first to be propagated by preaching, and grand reformations and changes 
 in the Church have always been efl'ected by the same instrumentality. 
 Apostles and Reformers, in this one aspect of their power, have thus come 
 to furnish to some communities the exclusive type of the ministerial 
 function. The modern minister is to he a preacher; a Lnther thundering 
 against abuses, or a Whitefield converting multitudes, — people are to as- 
 semble to hear, — but the worship of the faithful, who neither need to be con- 
 verted or reformed, has been lost sight of! Oihercommunities, again, treat- 
 ing tbe world as if it were the Church, and applying to assemblies of the 
 ignorant and ungodly laws and rules which belong only to spiritual fra- 
 ternities, make worship everything, in spite of the inherent spiritual inca- 
 pacity of the multitude for it. In the same way, they make preaching 
 nothing! — They thus delude and betray, where they ought to teach, to 
 enlighten, and to convert; they prostitute, so to speak, all that is sacred 
 in Divine service by making it common — without explanation and with- 
 out reserve— to worldly crowds! As to your idea of kePi)ing to the ' pat- 
 tern ' of the Apostolic age, you don't do it. You take a part of the pat- 
 tern, and talk about it as if it were the whole; and you do many things 
 for which you have no pattern at all, or which are palpable modern de- 
 
12 
 
 viations from it. You never can make the system of one iiidividurtl 
 ininister in a church, — he, too. a preacher, and little else, — square with 
 the fact of the plurality of elders in the first churches. So of ordina- 
 tion services, and other things, as too commonly practised amongst us- 
 The communion of saints, the worship of the church, service and sacra- 
 ment devoted to simple godly edification, are not much to be met with 
 anywhere, especially in the neighbourhood of popular preachers and gaz- 
 ing crowds. The modern preacher is veiy often too much of a lecturer, 
 and the chapel or church is too much regarded and attended as a lecture- 
 room. Some of our reformers advocate, 1 believe, the removal of the pul- 
 pit,— not to make way for the more emphatic discharge of praise and 
 prayer, (that I could understand,) — but to substitute a platform, and to 
 invite discussion, and thus to turn the meetings of God's priesthood, the 
 Christian people, when they should come together to worship, into some- 
 thing like those of a debating society! Ail my religious instincts and 
 sensibilities are lacerated and outraged by such an idea! There are times 
 and places, proper enough, for logical disputation, or other forms of men- 
 tal exercise; but do let us have both the one and the other for meeting as 
 Christians, to feel and act as if the Bible needed no commentary, as if 
 the Gospel had never been doubted, or the institutions of the Church 
 misunderstood. But all reformers depend on intellect, — on argument, 
 agitation, eloquent discourse, and so on, — and they lose sight of the other 
 half of things, the repose of faith and the luxury of devotion. What I 
 want is, to see the church fully up to its entire duty, — that it should un- 
 derstand its whole character. I wish it, at stated times to give full pro- 
 minence to what concerns itself — that with which the world can have 
 little sympathy; and at other times ' to hold forth the word of life,' to let 
 preaching have full play; when, if the man have it in him, his sermons 
 may be distinguished by the passion of Peter, the logic of Paul, and the 
 eloquence of Apollos. Now, in strictly and purely Church worship, I am 
 not sure that you would not come near to the practices of Apostolic times 
 if you had a regular form of service in which the people should have their 
 allotted part ; — if it were only their repetition of the Lord's Prayer, or their 
 uniting in a loud ' Amen.' As to your saying, that by a form of prayer 
 externally brought to you by another, you cannot pray, you condeoin 
 yourself, — so far, at least, as to prove that in public you never pray at 
 all, except uhen you yourself officiate. For, if ever a form of prayer, made 
 by another, is externally brought to you for you to pray with, this is 
 most cei-tainly the case when you have to listen to a prayer made at the 
 moment with the idea of your joining in it. To you in the pew, the free 
 prayer of the pulpit is a form ; and you must excuse my thinking that 
 it comes to you in a way less fitted for your utterance of the ' soul's de- 
 sire ' than if one was used with which you were familiar. The fact really 
 is, that the question about public forms of prayer resolves in itself into 
 this, — not whether a form is to be employed (for the people literally can 
 
13 
 
 have nothing else) ; but whether it is to be one prepared befoieliand, or 
 one composed for them at the moment." 
 
 The opposite side of the question is argued as follows : — 
 " He that teaches religion must have religion; — that, you know, is the 
 essential condition to a man's being a minister. In the same way, he 
 that has to lead the prayers of others must be filled with the spirit of 
 prayer himself, whether he pray with a litiu-gy or without one. I will 
 not deny that I have sometimes enjoyed the Liturgical service of the 
 Church of England; but I have also, I must aiBrm, been as much dis- 
 turbed by the way in which that Liturgy has been read, as ever I was 
 with the worst specimens of extemporary prayer. But, besides this, I ob- 
 ject to your theory of public prayer. It is, I think, imperfect and un- 
 spiritual. T don't admit that the only idea of public devotion is that of 
 \he ■peo^\Q actually praiiinrj , — oflFenng up, ?'« words, as their own, every 
 petition presented to God. There is that spirit of prayer of which you 
 speak, — a spirit which is not always browjht to the house of God even 
 by the best and holiest of men. Public prayer is to excite this as well as 
 to express it, or to aid its expression. Now, I do maintain that where 
 the minister is what he ought to be, there is more likelihood of his excit- 
 ing devotion by free prayer than by the use of familiar forms, however 
 unexceptionable and excellent in themselves. I have heard prayers which 
 have giadually kindled, elevated, and enlarged the souls of the wrapt yet 
 subdued people, by their solemnity and richness, in a way which was ut- 
 terly indescribable, but which no Liturgy that was ever fi-amed could 
 possibly effect ! The heart has been touched and softened; all sorts of emo- 
 tion called forth; the truths of the common faith, implied in every sen- 
 tence, have been brought before the mind with luminous clearness, and 
 made to act with a penetrating power, penitence, faith, hope, joy, with all 
 other corresponding sentiments, have been evoked and sustained ; the 
 invisible has been revealed ; the world has disappeared ; the presence of 
 'the Comforter' has seemed a consciously felt reality ! Such seasons are 
 ' times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord,' when the assembled 
 Church feels ' the powers of the world to come.' Every man with the 
 slightest spark of Christian life in him feels bettered, enriched, purified, 
 exalted; — he is humbler, stronger; — more loving, more holy, more joy- 
 ous ; — ' filled' by a Divine blessedness, ' with ' or ' unto,' ' all the fulness 
 of God!' Yet, with all this, few or none might be conscious of directly 
 offering up prayer, — offering, I mean, the words of any one of the petitions 
 uttered, — or of literally uniting in, by actually repeating, what they heard 
 of adoration, contrition, confidence, or joy. You would say that thev 
 did not pray, or that they did not join in prayer with the minister and 
 with each other, — that they only listened to another praying. / sav that 
 their uhole spiritual nature prayed ; their souls were a living sacrifice ; 
 they themselves were a petition, — presenting and constituting such 
 prayer as you read of wlien it is said, ' The Spirit niaketh intercession in us ' 
 
14 
 
 ill a manner that 'cannot be uttered.' Depend upon it, ' He that know- 
 etb the mind of the Spirit,' and who can do for us ' above what we can 
 either ask or think," does not regard as insignificant or worthless such 
 prayers as these, — these which are inward, living thoughts, — thouglits 
 and things which are unuttered because they are unutterable, — ' a medi- 
 tation of the heart.' which 'the words of the lip' cannot express; but 
 things, nevertheless, which have a voice and meaning in them under- 
 stood by ' Hira with whom we have to do,' — who can interpret what He 
 sees within us, translating, as it were, the dumb and the insirticulate into 
 a language far more expressive, copious, and exact than man or angel 
 ever knew, — to whom the ' groanings' of Humanity may not only be as 
 acceptable, but in whose ear they may be as sweet and as harmonious, 
 as the song of sinless intelligence and the symphonies of the upper 
 world ! 
 
 The first speaker in the imaginary discussion thus ex- 
 presses himself. 
 
 It would ill become any of us to doubt the tnith of what you have 
 said, or to question the sincerity with which you have spoken. We 
 could all, I believe, bear witness to such seasons as those you have 
 described : — seasons, however, you will permit me to say, which are 
 not common ; which require for their occuri-ence not only men of a 
 peculiar order of mind, and of deep spiritual experience, but also cer- 
 tain favourable impulses, a felicitous spiritual condition of things at 
 the moment, in the men themselves. Yon have set befoie us what is 
 undoubtedly true; but it is something exceptional. Few men can realize 
 it; and in those who can, it can only occur occasionally. Now, might 
 not something be said of like sort with respect to the influence of litur- 
 gical forms'? In the hands of some men, — or, at particular times, in the 
 hands of the same man,— may not a similar effect to what you have de- 
 scribed, as to the excitement to devotion, be produced by a Liturgy ; 
 while, at other times, and in other hands, it might be as distracting, 
 deadening, and unproductive as the meaner forms of free prayer?" 
 
 Both Luther and Calvin, it is well known, framed for the 
 churches founded by them a form of public service, — Luther's 
 " German Mass" (so he called it), being published in 152»i, 
 while previously, in 1523, he published a work entitled " Of 
 the Order of the Service of the Congregation." The instruc- 
 tions for the daily morning service, follow very nearly the 
 supposed mannerof worship in the Jewish synagogue, compre- 
 hending the reading and expounding of the word, by a scholar 
 or a minister, followed by psalms and responsaria, the whole 
 service being meant not to exceed one hour's duration. In 
 accordance with Luther's views, the Reformed Churches of 
 Northern Europe drew up liturgies for thrmselves, which have 
 
15 
 
 been, at intervals since, changed and modified as circumstances 
 appeared to render this desirable. Calvin entertained similar 
 opinions, though his liturgical forms afforded no opportu- 
 nity of response being made by the congregation, the prayers, 
 as is still the case in the Church of Geneva, being read trom 
 the pulpit bv the minister, probably very much in the form 
 of an aid, while a considerable portion of the service was left to 
 be conducted according to his discretion. The service of Calvin 
 commences with a general confession, nearly the same as that 
 introduced by Knox, the confession being followed by a 
 psalm, after which the "■ minister is again to engage in 
 ])rayer, becr^ing God to grant the gift of the Holy Spirit, 
 that His Word may be faithfully explained." The sermon 
 succeeds, and is followed by an exhortation to the people to 
 pray, preceding a somewhat lengthened form. Next comes 
 the Apostles' Creed, the whole being concluded by the Bene- 
 diction. The Geneva Liturgy as now used, contains a va- 
 riety of additional forms, besides a distinct service for each 
 day of the week, and for various festivals, such as New Year's 
 Day, the Anniversary of the restoration of the Republic, &e. 
 
 A natural and logical sequence seems to pervade the form 
 of public worship which Calvin left behind him. The several 
 acts of devotion follow each other, commencing with those 
 which are more [)riraary and preparative. 
 
 In the morning service, the reading of a portion of Scrip- 
 ture, and the enunciation of the Commandments form a pre- 
 face to the prayers. Only after this has been finished, does 
 the minister enter the desk and begin his proper work by re- 
 peating a sentence of invocation, afterwards calling on the 
 people to join him in prayer and then repeating a confession of 
 sins, followed by supplication for grace. This was to be fol- 
 lowed by the singing of a psalm on the part of the con- 
 gregation, the minister anew otFering up prayer, and next 
 proceeding with his sermon. The sermon again, was to be 
 followed (and naturally as an act of instruction ) by the in- 
 tercessory prayer, which exceeded in length the other form, 
 the whole being terminated, — unless the Communion was ti- 
 be administered, — with the Lonl's Prayer, the recital of the 
 Apostles' Creed and the Blessing. 
 
16 
 
 We here quote, from the work of Mr Baird, already re- 
 ferred to, the following additional particulars regarding Cal- 
 vin's Liturgy : — 
 
 " Respecting the degree of strictness with which ihese forms of worship should 
 be observed, Calviu's design evidently was, that no deviation be allowed from those 
 parts which are prescribed. 'As to what concerns a form of prayer and ecclesias- 
 tical rites,' says he in a letter to the Protector Somerset, ' I highly approve of it that 
 there be a certain form, from which the ministers be not allowed to vary: That 
 first, some provision be made to help the simplicity and unskilfulness of some; se- 
 condly, that the consent and harmony of the Churches one with another may ap- 
 pear; and lastly, that the capricious giddiness and levity of such as affect innova- 
 tions mny be prevented. To which end I h:;ve showed that a Catechism will be 
 very useful. Therefore there ought to be a stated Catechism, a stated form of 
 prayer, and administration of the sacraments.' 
 
 " For voluntary and extemporaneous prayer, Calvin made special provision. The 
 prayer before sermon in the service for the Lord's Day, is left to the minister's 
 choice ; and all other services of public prayer, whether on week days or on the 
 afternoon of the Sabbath, are unrestricted and free. At such times, the pieacheris 
 to use 'such words in prayer as mHv seam to him good, suiting his prayer to the 
 occasion, and the matter whereof he treats.' Only in those general supplications, 
 which from their nature must be uniform, as they express common wants and de- 
 sires, the reformer required a close adherence to tlie public formularies of the Church. 
 This union of free prayer with the rigid use of a Liturgy, was the marked and pe- 
 culiar excellence of the Geneva worship. . . . The simplicity upon which this 
 ritual was framed, pervaded also the manner of its celebration. The churches of 
 Geneva had been stripped of all their ancient garniture ; no symbol of worship re- 
 mained except the Cross, which for some years was suffered to stand on the towers 
 of the churches. The altar was replaced by a Communion-table ; the baptismal 
 fonts were at first removed, though afterwards restored ; the prayers were said, and 
 the Bible read from the pulpit.* Instead of variegated vestments, the garb of the 
 ministers was the plain black robe with embroidered lappets, the bands, and the 
 black velvet cap, which were afterwards commonly worn for many years by the 
 Calvinistic clergy of France, Holland, and Scotland. 
 
 " The posture of the people during prayer seems, in the early days of the Refor- 
 mation, to lia\e been that of kneeling. We infer as much from the remark of Cal- 
 vin quoted on a preceding page, respecting the introduction of a form of absolution. 
 The fact is indicated also by a canon of the Book of Discipline of the French 
 churches, adopted in 1559- . . ■ 
 
 " While thus providing for the ofiBce of prayer, our Reformer introduced also the 
 regular practice of congregational singing. To him we are all indebted for this fea- 
 ture of Divine worship, which was diiectly copied fiom the Church of Geneva into 
 tbe Scottish and Anglican services. J^t his suggestion it was that Clement Marot 
 
 * If the minister is to be umlerstood to lead the prayer of the congregation, why should this 
 be ? Would it not be an improvement to adopt an approximation to the practice of the Church 
 of England, should the movement for a reformation of our public wonihip go on ? The preacher 
 stands in the most advantageous place for arguing and remonstr:iting with liif audience. The 
 leader of public prayer acts as one of the congregation ; does not require to make use of 
 rhetorical exertion, and is supposed to join in unison with them. 
 
17 
 
 and Theodore Beza transliited the Psalms of David iuto French verse, and set t'utra 
 to simple and appropriate airs. A volume containing some portion of these psalms 
 made its appeaiaoce at Geneva, with a preface by Calvin, in l.'>43; but the collec- 
 tion was not completed before the year 15C1. 
 
 " In a survey of the Calvinistic worship, this interesting feature of Psalmody 
 must not be omitted. It belongs peculiarly and characteristically to that worship. 
 The Reformers of Switzerland and Scotland did not, as we often hear, deprive tlieir 
 ritual of a responsive and popular character. They did no more tlian separate the 
 functions of minister and people into the distinct duties of reading and singing. 
 The Psalms are the responsive part of Calvin's Liturgy. These choral services em- 
 bodied the acts of adoration, praise, and thanksgiving, which arc scarcely noticed in 
 tlie forms of prayer; while in the latter, the oflBces of intercession, supplication, and 
 teaching were assigned to the minister alone. The prayers by constant use made 
 familiar to the people, were to be followed silently or in subdued (ones ; the psalms 
 and hymns constituted their audible utterance in the sacred ministrations. 
 
 " This portion of Divine service was taken from the Roman Catholic Church, 
 where it had been preserved from the Jewish and early Christian worship. Nor did 
 our Reformers reject those other ancient Hymns which for ages had been closely 
 united with the Psalms in public devotion. The Te Deum, vhe Song of Simeon, 
 the Magnificat, were likewise transferred in a metrical shape to the Protestant ritual. 
 None of these, perhaps, has been more frequently and heartily used, in the solem- 
 nities of the Church and in private acts of praise, than the sublime hymn of Ambrose 
 and Augustine. . . . 
 
 " For the frequency of public services of worship, Calvin made abundant provision 
 in the Churches of Geneva. Prayers with sermon were said on every day of the 
 week. On the Sabbatli there were three services, one of which was for catechetical 
 instruction. On Monday, Tuesday, and Friday there was a service at the cathedral, 
 to be attended by all the magistrates of the city. On Tliursday took place the 
 weekly expository exercise, called the ' Congregalion,' the object of which was ' to 
 uphold the purity of the clergy, whether of the city or of the country. At this meet- 
 ing, every minister was to discourse in his turn on the portion of Scripture appointed 
 for the day. After the sermon, the ministers were to withdraw and make their re- 
 marks especially on the preacher. If any controversy arose on matters of doctrine, 
 they were to employ their best endeavours to preserve union ; and if they failed in 
 this, the elders of the church were to give their opinion on the subject, and strive 
 to restore peace.' This expository service was imitated in Scotland, and thence 
 transferred to the Church of England. Magistrates, soldiers, and people were 
 alike required to attend these week-day services. The students of the academy 
 or university founded by Calvin were to be present at Divine worship every Wed- 
 nesday in the cathedra), as well as three times on the Sabbath. The city garrison, 
 by a later regulation, were directed to attend prayers twice every day. And here let 
 us observe, in passing, one of those beautiful customs that belong peculiarly to the 
 religious times of which we speak. At every gate of the city, a soldier knelt down 
 and repeated aloud a prayer, before the portal was closed at night, and before it was 
 opened in the morning. Truly, with such habits of devotion, and such facilities for 
 the spiritual culture of its people, Geneva deserved the eulogy of Knox, when he 
 called it ' The most perfect school of CHnisT that ever was on earth.' 'God hath 
 made of Geneva,' says an old writer, ' His Bethlehem ; hat is to say, Mis house of 
 brad: " 
 
18 
 
 Our readers may be curious to look at this form for them- 
 selves : — 
 
 "The Fobm of Church Prayers. 
 
 " On uiek days the minister uselh surh words in prayer as may sectn to him good, 
 suiting his prayer to the occasion, and the maltir tvltereof Iw tieats in preaching. 
 
 For the Lord's day in the morning is commonly used the Form, ensuing. After 
 the reading of the appointed chapters of Holy Scripture, the Ten Commaudmenls 
 are read. Then the minister begins thus : — 
 
 INVOCATION 
 
 Our Lelp is in lie name of tbe Lord, wLo made heaven and earth. Amen. 
 
 EXHORTATION. 
 
 Brethren, let each of you present himself hefore the Lord, with confession of his 
 sins and oflFences, following in heart my words. 
 
 C0NTES310S. 
 
 Lord God I Eternal and Almighty Father: We acknowledge and confess before 
 thy holy mfijesty, that we are poor sinners ; conceived and bom in guilt and in cor- 
 ruption, prone to do evil, unable of ourselves to do any good ; who by reason of our 
 depravity, transgress without end thy holy commandments. Therefore we have 
 drawn upon ourselves, by thy just sentence, condemnation and death. But, O 
 Lord ! with heartfelt sorrow we repent and deplore our otfences 1 we condemn our- 
 selves and our evil ways, with true penitence beseeching that thy grace may relieve 
 our distress. 
 
 Be pleased then to have compassion upon us, most gracious God I Father of 
 all mercies; for the sake of thy Son Jescs Christ our Lord. And in removing 
 our guilt and our pollution, grant us the daily increase of the grace of thine Holy 
 Spirit ; that acknowledging from our inmost hearts our own uurighteousness, we 
 may be touched with sonow that shall work true repentance ; and that thy Spirit, 
 mortifying all sin within us may produce the fruits of holiness and of righteousness 
 well-pleasing in thy sight : Through Jesds Christ our Lord. Amen. 
 
 This done, shall he svng in the congregation a Psalm ; then the minister shall 
 begin afresh to pray, asking o/"God the grace of his Holy Spirit, to the end that his 
 word may be faithfully expounded, to the honour of his name, and to the edijicalion 
 of the church ; and thai it be received in such humitily and obedience as are be- 
 coming. 
 
 The form tliereof is at the discretion of the minister. 
 [Prayer which the ministers are accustomed to make.} 
 
 FOR ir.LUMlXATIOS. 
 
 Most gracious God, our heavenly Father I in whom alone dwelleth all fulness of 
 light and wisdom : Illuminate our minds, we beseech thee, by thine Holy Spirit, in 
 the true understanding of thy woni. Give us grace that we may receive it willi 
 reverence and humility unfeigned. May it lead us to put our whole trust in thee 
 alone ; and so to serve and honour thee, that we may glorify thy holy name, and 
 cdifv our neighbours by a good example. And since it hath plea-sed thee to number 
 us among thy people ; help us to pay thee tbe love and homage that wc owe, as 
 
19 
 
 children to our Father, and as servants to our Lord. We ask this for the sake of 
 our Master and Saviour, who hath taught us to pray, saying. Our Father, &o. 
 
 At the end of the sermon, the minister having made exhortation to jirayKr, ht- 
 yinneth thus : — 
 
 INTERCESSION. . 
 
 Almighty God, our heavenly Father 1 who hast promised to grant our requests in 
 the name of thy well-beloved Sou : Thou hast taught us in his name also to assem - 
 ble ourselves together, assured that he shall be present in our midst, to intercede 
 for as with thee, and obtain for us all things that we may agree on earth to ask 
 thee. Wherefore, having met in thy presence, dependant on thy promise, we ear- 
 nestly beseech thee. gracious God and Father I for his sake who is our only 
 Saviour and Mediator, that of ihy boundless mercy thou wilt freely pardon our 
 offences ; and so lift up our thoughts and draw forth our desires toward thyself, that 
 we may seek thee according to thy holy and reasonable will. 
 
 FOB RULERS. 
 
 Heavenly Father ! who hast bidden us pray for those in authority over us : We 
 entreat thee to bless all princes and governors, thy servants, to whom thou hast 
 committed the administration of justice ; and especially » • * May it please 
 thee to grant them the daily increase of thy good Spirit, that with true faith acknow- 
 ledging Jkscs Christ, thy Son our Saviour, to be King of kings, and Lord of lords, 
 unto whom thou hast given all power in heaven and on earth ; tbey may seek to 
 serve thee and exalt thy rule in their dominions. May they govern their subjects, 
 the creatures of thy hand and the sheep of thy pasture, in a manner well pleasing in 
 thy sight ; so that as well here as throughout all the ea-.th, thy people, being kept 
 in peace and quiet, may serve thee in all godliness and honesty; and we, being de- 
 livered from the fear of our enemies, may pass the time of our life in thy praise. 
 
 FOR pastors. 
 Almighty Saviour 1 we pray for all whom thou hast appointed pastors of thy 
 believing people, who are intrusted with the care of souls and the dispensing of thy 
 holy gospel. Guide them by thy Spirit, and make them faithful and loyal ministers 
 of thy glory. May they ever hold this end before them; that by them all poor 
 wandering sheep may be gathered in and made subject to the Lord Jesus Christ, 
 the Shepherd and Bishop of their souls, and in him daily grow up and increase in 
 all righteousness and truth. Deliver thy churches from the mouth of ravenous 
 wolves and hirelings, who seek only their own ambition or profit, and not the ex- 
 altation of thy holy name, and the safety of thy flock. 
 
 FOR ALL conditions OF MEN. 
 
 Most gracious God, Father of all mercies ! We beseech thee for every class and 
 condition of our fellow- men. Thou who wouldst be acknowledged as the Saviour 
 of all mankind, in the redemption made by thy Son Jesus Christ: Grant that 
 such as are yet strangers to tliy knowledge, in darkness and captivity to ignorance 
 and error, may, by the enlightening of thy Spirit and the preaching to thy word, be 
 led into the right way of salvation ; which is to know thee, the only true God, and 
 Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. May those whom thou hast already visited 
 with thy grace, and enlightened with the knowledge of thy word, grow daily in all 
 
20 
 
 goJliness, and be enriched with tLj spiritaal gifts. So iLu we lUl n-iili one heart 
 aud ODe voice, may ever praise tiiee, giving honour and worship io thj Christ, our 
 Lord, Lawg^iver, and King. 
 
 FOB AFFLICTED PERS03I8. 
 
 God of all comfort 1 We commend to thee those whom thou an pleased to visit 
 and chasten with any cross or tribulation ; the nations whom thou dost aflSict with 
 pestilence, war, or famine ; all persons oppressed with poverty, imprisonment, sick- 
 ness, banishment, or any other distress of body or sorrow of mind : That it may 
 please thee to show them thy fatherly kindness, chastening them for their profit ; 
 to the end that in their hearts they may turn nnto thee, aud being converted, may 
 receive perfect consolation, aud deliverance from all their woes. 
 
 FOB PERSECUTED CHBISTIAXS. 
 
 Wore especially we commend to thee our poor brethren scattered abroad under the 
 tyranny of Antichrist, who are destitute of the pasture of life, and deprived of the 
 privilege of publicly calling on thy holy name. We pray for those who are confined 
 as prisoners, or otherwise persecuted by the enemies of thy gospel. May it please 
 thee, O Father of mercies I to strengthen them by the vinue of thy Spirit, in such 
 sort that they faint not, but constantly abide in thy holy calling. Succour then), 
 help thera as thou knowest they may need ; console them in their afflicdons ; main- 
 tain them in thy safe keeping ; defend them against tlie rage of devouring wolves ; 
 and augment within them all the graces of thy Spirit, that whether in life or death, 
 iLey may glorify thy name. 
 
 FOB THE COXGREGATtOS. 
 
 Finallv, O God our Father! Grant also unto us, who are here gathered in the 
 name of thy holy Child Jescs, to hear his word [and to celebrate his holy Supper], 
 that we may rightly and unfeignedly perceive our lost estate by nature, and the con- 
 demnation we have deserved aud heaped up to ourselves by disobedient lives. So 
 that, conscious that in ourselves there dwelleth no good thing, and that our flesh 
 and blood cannot inherit thy kingdom, with our whole affections we may give our- 
 selves np in firm trust to tLy beloved Son, Jescs Cheist, our Lord, our only Sa- 
 viour and Redeemer. And that he, dwelling in ns, may mortify within tis the old 
 Adam, renewing us for that belter life, wherein we shall exalt and glorify thy blessed 
 and worthy name, ever, world without end. Amen. 
 
 THE LOBD'B PBATKB. 
 
 Our Father which art in heaven. Hallowed be thy name : Thy kingdom come 
 Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven : Give us this day our daily bread 
 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors : And lead us not into tempt 
 ation, but deliver us from evil : For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the 
 glory, for ever. Amen. 
 
 THE CBKED. 
 
 Lord, increase our faith. 
 
 I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and in Jesijs 
 Christ, his only Son onr Lord , who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, bom of the 
 Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried : He 
 descended into hell ; the third day He rose again from the dead : He ascended into 
 heaven, and siiteth at the right hand rf God the Father Almighty ; from whence He 
 
21 
 
 shidl come to judge the quick and the dead. I beiiere in the Holt Ghost ; ilie 
 Holy Catholic Church ; the communion of saints ; the forgiveness of sins ; tie 
 resurrection of the body, and :he life everlasting. Amen. 
 
 TBS BLE3SiyG. 
 
 JThich U pronounced at the departure of the people, according as our Lord hath 
 commanded in the Laic. — Numb. vi. '.23. 
 The Lord bless thee, and keep thee : 
 
 The Lord moke his face shine upon thee, and be gracioas ui>to thee : 
 The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. 
 
 Whereunto u added, to remind the people of the duty of aiau-yicing, as it is eus- 
 tomary upon leai-ing the church. 
 
 Depart in peace. Remember the poor; and the God of peace be with yon. — 
 Amen." 
 
 We have before U3 a great variety, more especiallv of 
 foreign liturgical forms, all more or less based on similar 
 principles; but as we have alluded to the propriety and 
 utility of having services adapted to special occasions, we 
 shall give a specimen of two of these services as contained in 
 the Liturgy of the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church of 
 America. Our first extract is from the " Form for the 
 Administration of the Lord's Supper.*' We begin, first of 
 all, with the introductory exhortation, which is an excellent 
 one: — 
 
 Beloved in the Lord Jesus Christ, attend to the words of the institution of the 
 holy supper of our Lord Jesus Christ, as they are delivered by the holy Apostle 
 Paul. I Cor. xi. : 23 30. 
 
 " For I have received of the Lord, that which also I delivered nnto yon, thai the 
 Lord Jesus, the same night in f^hich he was betrayed, took bread ; and when he 
 had given thanks, he brake it, and said. Take, eat ; this is my body which is broken 
 for you : this do in remembrance of me And after the same manner also, he took 
 the cup, when he Lad supped, saying. This cnp is the new tescament in my blood ; 
 this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, iu remembrance of me : for as ofi as ye eat this 
 bread, and driuk this cup. ye do show the Lord's death till he come. Wherefore, 
 whosoever shall eat tliis bread, and drink this cnp of the Lord unworthily, shali be 
 gtiilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so 
 let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cap : for he that eateth and drinketh 
 unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation* [judgment] to himself, not discerning 
 the Lord's boJy. " 
 
 That we may now celebrate the supjer of the Lord to our comfort, it is above all 
 things necessary. 
 
 • Or. xci/Ma — D. Oordeel — E. Judgmei.t, coQdem.:at'on. 
 
22 
 
 First, Rigliily to examine our<=elves. 
 
 Secondly, To direct tlie Supper to that end for wbicli Cbrist hath iiisiimtcd the 
 same, namely, to the remembrance of him. 
 
 (I.) Ill order to the right examination of ourselves : — 
 
 First, Let every one consider by himself his sins and the curse due to him for 
 them, to the end that he may abhor aud humble himself before God ; considering 
 that the wrath of God against sin is so great, that, rather than it should go un- 
 punished, he hath punished the same in his beloved Son Jesus Christ, with the bit- 
 ter and shameful death of the cross. 
 
 Secondly, Let every one examine his own heart, whether he doth believe this 
 faithful promise of God, that all bis sins are forgiven him, only for the sake of the 
 p;issiou and death of Jesus Christ, and that the perfect righteousness of Christ is 
 imputed aud freely given to him as his own, yea, so perfectly as if he had, iu bis 
 own person, satisfied for all his sius, and fulfilled all righteousness. 
 
 Thirdly, Let every one examine bis own conscience, whether be hath resolved 
 henceforth to show true thankfulness to God in his whole life, and to walk uprightly 
 before him ; and also hath an earnest purpose, from this time forth, to live in true 
 love and peace with his neighbour. 
 
 All those who are thus minded, God will certainly receive in mercy, and count 
 them worthy partakers at the table of his Son Jesus Christ. 
 
 On the contrary, those who do not feel this witness in their hearts, eat and drink 
 judgment to themselves. Therefore, we also, according to the Scriptures, admonish 
 all those who know themselves to be defiled with the following sins, to keep them- 
 selves from the table of the Lord ; such as all idolators, and all who use or trust in 
 auy form of divination ; all despisers of God, and of bis word, and of the holy sacra- 
 ments ; all profane or false swearers ; all Sabbath-breakers ; all those who are dis- 
 obedient to parents or rightful superiors, and all movers of sedition and discord; all 
 murderers, and such as live in hatred or envy against their neighbour ; all unclean 
 persons and drunkards ; all thieves and extortioners ; all slanderers and liars ; all 
 covetous and miserly persons ; and all who lead oflFensive lives. These, while they 
 continue in such sins, shall abstain from this meat, lest their condemnation be made 
 the heavier. 
 
 But this is not designed, dearly beloved brethren and sisters in the Lord, to deject 
 the contrite hearts of the faithful, as if none might come to this Supper but such as 
 are without sin ; for we do not come to the Supper of the Lord, to testify thereby 
 that we are perfect and righteous in ourselves ; but, on the contrary, since we are 
 seeking our life out of ourselves in Jesus Christ, we acknowledge by this very ser- 
 vice that we lie in the midst of death. Therefore, notwithstanding we still find 
 many shortcomings and miseries in ourselves, as, namely, that we have not perfect 
 faith, and do not give ourselves to serve God with such zeal as we are bound, but 
 have daily to strive with the weakness of our faith aud evil lusts of our flesh ; yet, 
 since, by the grace of the Holy Gliost, we are sorry for these weaknesses and ear- 
 nestly desire to fight against our unbelief, and to live according to all the command- 
 ments of God, we rest assured that no sin or infirmity which still, against our will, 
 remaineth in us, can hinder us from being received of God in mercy, and so made 
 worthy pai-takers of this heavenly meat and drink. 
 
 (11.) Let us now also consider to what eud the Lord hath instituted his Supper, 
 namely, that we " do this in remembr.iuce of him." Now after this manner are we 
 to remember him by it : — 
 
23 
 
 First, We must be fully persuaded iu our hearts that our Lord Jesus Christ was 
 sent of the Father into the world : Assumed our tiesh aud blooil : Bore for us the 
 wrath of God from the beginniug of his iucarontiou to the eud of his life upou etirth ; 
 especially when the weight of our sins and of the wrath of God pressed out of him 
 the bloody sweat iu the garden, where he was bound — that our bonds might be 
 loosed : Afterwards suflFered inuiuuerable revilings — that we might never come to 
 shame : Iu liis innocence was condemned to death — that we might be acquitted ai 
 the judgmeut seat of God; yea, suffered his blessed body to be nailed on the cross 
 — that he might fasten thereon the haudwiiting of our sius : Took ou him the bur- 
 den of our curse, that he might till us with his blessiugs ; and humbled himself unto 
 the deepest reproach and pains of hell, in body luid in soul, on the tree of the cr;ss. 
 when he cried with a loud voice, "My God.' my God I why hast thouforsakeu me'" 
 — that we might be made nigh unto God, and never be forsaken of him : And finiJly, 
 confirmed with his death and the shedding of his blood the new and eternal testa- 
 ment — that covenant of grace and reco!iciliation — when he said, " It is finished/" 
 
 Moreover, That we may firmly believe that we belong to this covenant of gnice, 
 the Lord Jesus Christ hath ordained this Holy Supper, and said, " This do ye iu 
 remembrance of me ;" that is, " As often as ye eat of this bread and drink of this 
 cnp, you shall thereby, as by a sure memorial and pledge, be persuaded of this my 
 hearty love and faithfulness towards you, that whereas otherwise you should have 
 suffered eternal death, I have given my botiy to the death of the cross, aud have 
 shed my blood for you ; aud with my crucified body and my shed blood do nourish 
 your hungry aud ihii-sty sculs to everlasting life as surely as this bread is broken 
 before your eyes aud this cup is given to you, and you eat and driuk the same in 
 remembrance of nie." 
 
 From this institution of the Holy Supper of our Lord Jesus Christ, we see that 
 he directs our faith, aud trusts to his perfect sacrifice, once offered ou the cross, as 
 the only ground of our salvation, since by that sacrifice he is become to our hungry 
 aud thirsty souls, the true meat and drink of life eternal. For by his death he hath 
 taken away the cause of our eternal death and misery, namely, sin, and obtained 
 for us the life-giving Spirit, that by the same, which dwelleth in Christ as the 
 head, and iu us as his members, we may have true communion with him, and be 
 made partakers of all his blessings — of life eternal, righteousness, and glory : And 
 furthermore, that, by the same Spirit, we may, as the members of one body, be 
 united in true brotherly love, " For we, being many, are one bread aud one body, 
 for we are all partakers of that one bread." For, as ont of many grains one meal is 
 ground and one bread baked, and out of many berries being pressed together one 
 wine Howi'th aud mixeth itself together, so all we who. by true faith, are incorpora- 
 ted into Cliiist shall, by brotherly love, be cue body for the sake of Christ, our be- 
 loved Saviour, who hath first so exceedingly lovid us ; and this we shall show to- 
 wards one another, not only iu word hut also in very deed. 
 
 Cftc ©ragfr. 
 
 That we may obtaiu all this. Let ns humble ourselves before God. aud with true 
 faith implore his grace. 
 
 O most merciful God aud father! we beseech thee that in this Supper, in which 
 we celebrate the glorious remembnuice of the bitter death of thy beloved Son Jesu- 
 Christ, thou wilt so work in our hearts by thy Holy Spirit; That we, with true con- 
 fidence, may more and more give ourselves up unto thy beloved Son Jesus Christ, 
 so tl at our burdened and fainting hearts may, through the power of the Holy Ghost. 
 
24 
 
 be fed and refreshed with his true body aud blood — yea, witli himself, true G( d and 
 man, that only heavenly bread : That we may henceforth live, not in our sins, but 
 he in us and we in him, and thus be true partakers of the new and everlasting cove- 
 nant of grace ; and that we may not doubt that iboii wilt for ever be our gracious 
 Father, never more imputing our sins unto us, and providing us, as thy beloved 
 children and heirs, with all things necessary as well for the body as the soul. 
 
 " Grant us also thy grace, that we may cheerfully take upon us our cross, deny 
 ourselves, confess our Saviour, and in all tribulations, with uplifted heads, expect 
 our Lord Jesus Christ from heaven, where he will make our mortal bodies like unto 
 his most glorious body, and take us to be for ever with himself. And wilt thou also, 
 by this holy Supper, strengthen us in the Catholic and undoubted Christian faith, 
 whereof we make confession with our mouths aud hearts, saying:* 
 
 I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth : and in Jesus 
 Christ his only Son our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the 
 Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried, he 
 descended into hell : the third day he rose again from the dead, he ascended into 
 heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty ; from thence lie 
 shall come to judge the quick and the dead. 
 
 I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy Catholic Church; the communion of 
 saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life ever- 
 lasting. Amen. 
 
 That we may now be fed with the true heavenly bread, Christ Jesus, let us not 
 cleave with our hearts unto the external bread and wine, but lift them up on high to 
 heaven, where Christ Jesus is our Advocate at the right hand of his Father, whither 
 all the articles of our faith do lead us ; not doubting, that, through the working 
 of the Holy Ghost, we shall be fed and refreshed with his body and blood, as surely 
 as we receive the holy bread and wine in remembrance of him. 
 
 Hereto assist us, the Almighty God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, through 
 his Holy Spirit. Amen. 
 
 STfie Sfrbice. 
 
 In breaking and distributing the bread, the minister shall say : — 
 The bread which we break, is the communion of the body of Christ. 
 
 And when he giveth the cup: — 
 The cup of blessing, which we bless, is the communion of the blood of Christ. 
 During the communion a psalm may be devoutly sung, or a chapter may be read, in 
 remembrance of the death of Christ, as the 53f/ chapter of Isaiah, the \Zth, lUh, 
 \bth, IQth, nth, \'6th chapters of John or the like. 
 
 After the communion the minister shall say : — 
 Beloved in the Lord, since the Lord hath now fed our souls at his table, let us 
 therefore jointly praise his holy name with thanksgiving, and every one say in his 
 heart thus : — 
 
 Bless the Lord, O my soul ; and all that is within me, bless his holy name. 
 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. 
 Who Jorgivcih all thine iniquities ; tvho healelh all thy diseases. 
 
 * It is recommended that the ancient custom of reiieating tiie creed audibly, by 
 the communicants, be restored. 
 
25 
 
 ' Who retltcmeth thy lijt /rom instruction, who croicneth thee with loving kindness 
 and tender mercies. 
 
 The Lord is nwrci/'ul and gracious, slow to anytr and plenteous in mercy. 
 
 He hath not dealt with us after our sins, nor rewarded us according to our ini- 
 quities. 
 
 For as the heaven is high above tlie earth, so great is his niercy towards them 
 that/ear him. 
 
 As far as the East is from tlie JVest, so far hath lie removed our transgressions 
 from us. 
 
 Like as ajaiher pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. 
 
 Who hath uot spared his owu Sou, but delivered him up for us all, and given us 
 all things with him. Therefore God commeudeih therewith his love towards us, iu 
 that while we were yet siuuei-s, Christ died for us. Much more theu, being uow 
 justified b) his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him; for if when we were 
 enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son ; much more, being re- 
 conciled we shall be saved by his life. Therefore shall my mouth and heart show 
 forth the praise of the Lord from this time forth for evermore. Amen. 
 Let every one say trith an attentive heart : 
 
 O Almighty and merciful God and Father I with our whole hearts we thank thee, 
 that thou hast of thy boundless mercy, giren us thine ouly-begotieu Son, to be our 
 Mediator, and the sacrifice for our sins, and our meat and drink unto life eternal ; 
 ttud that thou also givest us lively faith, whereby we are made partakers of these thy 
 benefits. It hath also pleased thee in order to confirm this faith within us, that thy be- 
 loved Son Jesus Christ should ordain his Holy Supper; grant, then, we beseech thee.O 
 faithful God and Father, that this remembrance of our Lord Jesus Christ, and this 
 showing forth of his death, may, by the working of thy Holy Spirit, secure our daily 
 growth iu the faith of Christ, and iu his saving fellowship, through Jesus Christ thy 
 Son, in whose name we conclude our prayers, saying — Odr Fathkr, &;c. 
 
 Beskdictiox. 
 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that 
 great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make 
 you perfect iu every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well- 
 pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ ; to whom be glory for ever and ever 
 Amen. 
 
 The subject we have now touched upon is well worthy of 
 consideration. An initiatory step in this movement was in- 
 dicated in a circular widely distributed, by means of " Mac- 
 phail's Magazine," and the " Missionary Record," and which 
 our readers will perceive is appended to this pamphlet, 
 with the view of attracting the notice of the clergy and 
 influential members of the Church, by an attached and 
 excellent member of our communion, Dr Smith of this 
 city. We delight to find laymen of enlarged and liberal 
 D 
 
26 
 
 views coming forward on such subjects, and showing their 
 deep interest in the welfare of our national Zion ; and we 
 strongly sympathise with the desire expressed by Dr 
 Smith, that some manual, such as he specifies, should be 
 prepared for the use of our emigrant brethren, our colonists 
 who have not the advantage of a stated ministry, and the 
 many of our people at home whom unavoidable circumstances 
 at times preclude from joining in the worship of the sanc- 
 tuary. 
 
 " No one can read tbe details from the Colonies in our Missionary 
 Record, without lamenting thie destitute condition of our brethren in 
 resi^ect to the privileges and enjoyment of Gospel ordinances. In many 
 churches in our North American colonies, there have been no services 
 for a series of years, from the want of ministers. In these ti7ing cir- 
 cumstances, the people have earnestly and repeatedly appealed to the 
 General Assembly to supply this want, and have at the same time peti- 
 tioned to be provided with a Book of Devotion, as a great help in the 
 absence of the public Services of the Church. It is gratifying to know 
 that these appeals are now meeting with attention. 
 
 The Liturgy of the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church, 
 affords us the following excellent specimen of a burial 
 service: — 
 
 Ci^e Serbtre at t^e J^oum. 
 
 PREFACES. 
 (One or more of which may he read at discrelion) 
 
 It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to tbe house of feasting; 
 for that is the end of all men, and the living will lay it to heart. 
 
 Let us weep with those tliat weep ; and let our prayer also be in their calamities. 
 
 AflBictiou Cometh not forth of the dust, neither doth trouble spring out of the 
 ground. See now, saitb the Lord, I, even I, am he, and there is no God beside 
 me. I kill and I make alive ; I wound and I heal ; neither is there any that can 
 deliver out of my hand. 
 
 The Lord destroyeth the hope of man. The Lord prevaileth against him and he 
 passeth. He changeth his countenance and seudeth him away. 
 
 It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed ; because his compassions 
 fail not. Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear 
 him. For he knoweth our frame ; he remembereth that we are dust. 
 
 Though he cause grief, yet will he have compassion according to the multitude 
 of his mercies. For he doth not afflict willingly tbe children of men. 
 Despise not the chastening of the Lord, neither faint when thou art rebuked of 
 
27 
 
 him ; for whom tLe Lord loveth, he chasteueih, aud sooiirgeih every sou whom be 
 receiveth. 
 
 Now, no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyoas, but grievous ; never- 
 theless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruits of righteousness unto them which 
 are exercised thereby. Wherefore, lift up the hands that hang down, and the feeble 
 knees. 
 
 For we have not an High Priest whieh can not be touched with the feeling of 
 our infirmities ; but was iu all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let 
 us, therefore, come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and 
 find grace lo help in time of need. 
 
 Leave thy faiherless cliildreu, (saith the Lord ; ) 1 will preserve them alive : and 
 let thy widows trust in me. 
 
 A fiither of the fatherless aud a judge of the widow is God in his holy habitation. 
 
 When my father and my mother forsake me, tlieu the Lord wUI take me up. 
 
 There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. And Jesus loved Martha 
 and her sister and Lazarus. Then said MaitLa unto Jesus : Lord, if thou hadst 
 been here, my brother hsid not died ; but I kuow that even now whatsoever thou 
 wilt ask of God, God will give it tliee. Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise 
 again. Miutha said unto him, I know that he shall rise at the resurrection of the 
 just. 
 
 FOB AS ISFAXT. 
 
 And David said, while the child was yet alive, I fasted and wept, for I said, who 
 can tell whether God will be gracious unto me that the child may Uve.' But now 
 he is dead, wherefore should I fast ? Can I bring him back again ? I shall go to 
 him ; but he shall not return to me. 
 
 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 kingdom of heafen. Verily, I say unto you, whosoever 
 shall not receive the kingdom of heaven as a little child, he shall not enter therein. 
 
 Take heed th.it ye despise not one of these little ones ; for I say unto you, that 
 in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. 
 
 For the Sou of il.m is come to save that which was lost. How think ye :' If a 
 man have a hundred sheep, and one of them be gone estray, doth he not leave the 
 ninety aud uiue and goeth into the mouutjuns and seeketh that which is gone astrav ? 
 Aud if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you. he rejoiceth more of that sheep 
 than of the ninety and uiue which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of 
 your Father that one of these Htde ones should perish. 
 
 The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord. 
 
 A bruised reed he will not break, nor will he quench the smoking flux. 
 
 Jesus wept. 
 
 PBAYEB. 
 
 O Got!, merciful God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hast said. Blessed 
 are they that mourn, for they shall be comfored ; under the shadow of thy judg- 
 ments we come to thee and acknowledge thee to be the Lord alone. Thou hast en- 
 tered this house with thy chastenings ; oh ! be thou nigh in thy tender compassion 
 
28 
 
 lo iLese afflicted ones. Bless tby sorrowing servauls with ihy cousolaiions, which arc 
 neither few nor small. 
 
 Convert them wholly to thyself, and fill their bleeding hearts with thy love. Make 
 the night of their grief to be light by thy grace. 
 
 Deliver us thy servants, we pray thee, from the bondage of our sins, that we may 
 be free from fear of death, and be ready at thy coming. Yea, Lord, for Christ's 
 sake, sanctify us by thy Holy Spirit, that whether we live, we may live unto the 
 Lord, or whether we die, we may die unto the Lord ; whether we may live or die, 
 we may be the Lord's. Amen. 
 
 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, etc. 
 
 C^e sterbice at tfic ©tiurc!), 
 
 [I/the service be performed in whole at the house, then a part of the following 
 may he used in connection with the preceding form,'\ 
 
 Here the Ninetieth Psalm may be read as an Invocation , and a Funeral Hymn 
 may be sung. 
 
 Then let there be read two portions of Scripture, from the Gospel and the 
 Epistles. The following are suitable passages: — 
 
 Hear the comfortable words of the Gospel of our Saviour Jesus Christ, as they 
 are written in the eleventh chapter of Saint John. 
 
 Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother bad not 
 died. But I know that, even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give 
 it thee. Jesus said unto her. Thy brother shall rise again. Martha saith unto him, 
 I know thaf he shall rise again in the Eesurrection at the last day. Jesus said 
 unto her, I am the Resurrection, and the Life : he that believeth in me, though he 
 were dead, yet shall he live : and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never 
 die, Believest thou this? She saith unto him, Yea, Loid : I believe that thou 
 art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world. 
 or this : 
 
 Hear the Gospel of our Saviour Jesus Christ, in the fifth chapter of Saint John : 
 
 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that hear«th my word, and believeth on Him 
 that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation ; but is 
 passed from death unto life. Verily, verily, I say unto you. The hour is coming, 
 and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God : and they that 
 hear shall live. For as the Father hath life in himself, so hath he given to the Son 
 to have life in himself ; and hath given him authority to execute judgment also, be- 
 cause he is the Son of Man. Marvel not at this : for the hour is coming, in the 
 which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth ; they 
 that have done good, unto the Resurrection of life ; and they that have done evil, 
 unto the Resurrection of damnation. 
 
 Then, before the second portion of Scripture, may be read one or more of these 
 sentences. 
 
 By one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, and so death hath 
 passed upon all men, because that all have sinned. 
 
29 
 
 The liviug kuow tbai tLey must die, for there is one event unto all. 
 
 Tbere is no mau that hath power over the spirit to retain the spirit ; neither hath 
 be power in the day of his death, and there is no discharge in that war; neither 
 shall wickedness deliver them that are given to it. 
 
 They that trust in their wealth, and boiist themselves in the multitude of their 
 riches, none of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ran- 
 som for him, that he should live for ever and not see corruption. 
 
 The wise men die, likewise the fool and the brutish person perish, and leave their 
 wealth to others. 
 
 One dieth in his fliU strength, and his bones are moistened with miu-row ; an- 
 other dieth in the bitterness of his soul, and never eateth with any pleasure. They 
 shall lie down alike in the dust, and the worms shall cover them. Every man shall 
 follow them, as there are innumerable before them. 
 
 As a cloud is consumed and vauisheth away ; so he that goeth down to the grave 
 shall return no more. He shall return no more to his house, neither shall his place 
 know him any more. His days are ended, his purposes are broken ofi', even the 
 thoughts of his heart. 
 
 Then let the second portion of Scripture be read, from 1 Corinthians 15, from 
 V. 35 to the end. 
 
 Or this, from Revelation 20 : — 
 
 Hear also the Revelation of St. John : 
 
 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the 
 earth and the heaven fled away ; and there was found no place for them. And I 
 saw the dead, small and great, stiuid before God ; and the books were opened : and 
 another book was opened, which is the book of li||: and the dead were judged out 
 of those things which were written iu the books, according to their works. And the 
 sea gave up the dead which were in it : and death and hell delivered up the dead 
 which were iu them ; and they were judged every man according to his works. 
 
 Or this,frotn Beielation 21 :— . 
 
 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth : for the first heaven and the first 
 earth were passed away ; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the Holy 
 City, New Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride 
 adorned for her husband. And I heard a gi-eat voice out of heaven, saying. Behold, 
 the Tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be 
 his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall 
 wipe away all tears from their eyes ; and there shall be no more death, neither 
 sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain : for the former things are 
 passed away. 
 
 God, whose days are without end, and whose mercies can not be numbered : 
 Make us, we beseech thee, deeply sensible of the shortness and uncertainty of hu- 
 man life; and let thy Holy Spirit lead us through this vale of misery, in holiuoss 
 and rigliteousness, all the day of our lives : that when we shall have served thcc iu 
 our generation, we may be gathered unto our fathoi-s. having the testimony of a 
 good conscience ; in the communion of the Christian Church; in the confidence of 
 
30 
 
 R certain faith ; in the comfort of a reasonable, religious, and boly hope ; in favour 
 wiih thee our God, and in perfect chanty with the world : all which we ask through 
 Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
 
 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 
 
 Ctie Seibjce at tftc Orabe. 
 
 Man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets. 
 
 What mail is he that liveth, and shall not see death ? Shall he deliver his soul 
 from the hand of the grave, 
 
 I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, write : Blessed are the dead which 
 die in the Lord from henceforth. Yea, saith the Spirit, for they rest from their la- 
 bours, and their works do follow them. 
 
 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his 
 abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the Resurrection of 
 Jesus Christ from ihe dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth 
 not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God, through 
 faith unto salvation. 
 
 At the time of the burial the minister shall say : — 
 
 The dust returns to dust, and the spirit unto God who gave it : therefore do we 
 now commit the body of our departed brother to the earth (or deep) until that hour 
 when earth aud sea shall give up their dead, at the coming of our Lord Jesus 
 Christ to judge the world. 
 
 LET us PBAY. 
 
 Almighty and everlasting God 1 we, thine unworthy servants, beseech thee for 
 Christ's sake to have pity upon ^ ! From the borders of the grave, we cry unto 
 thee ; for Christ's sake have mercy on us. 
 
 It hath pleased thee to call out of this world the soul of our departed friend 
 whose body we have now brought for his burial. We humbly entreat thee that 
 we may, with true penitence of heart, receive the warning of thy pro\idence, and 
 consider that for reason of our guilt it is appointed unto us to die, and that in a 
 moment when we think not we may appear before thee. Yea, Lord, by reason 
 of our sins we lie in the midst of death. Spare us, Lord, O most pitiful and long- 
 sufferiug Lord God, spare us a little longer that we may take refuge in Christ, abid- 
 ing in him, that when he shall appear we may have confidence aud not be ashamed 
 at his coming. merciful God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, suffer none of 
 us to live without godliness aud die without hope, but constrain us mightily by thy 
 love, that we. being renewed by thy grace aud accepted through Christ's interces- 
 sion, may walk before thee in newness of life, and praise thee for ever among the 
 assembly of the elect, where there shall be no more death, aud sorrow and sighing 
 shall flee away ; which we implore for the sake of Him who has taught us to say. 
 Our Fatheb &c. 
 
 the blessing. 
 
 And may the God of Peace, who bfought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the 
 great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make us 
 perfect in every good work to do his will, working in us that which is well pleasing 
 in his sight through Jesus Christ. Amen, 
 
ai 
 
 Closely connected with the subject of the previous remarks, 
 is the question whether it may not be possible or desirable 
 to introduce into our Sabbath observances, the more particular 
 notice of those peculiar seasons, — momentous epochs in the 
 development of the scheme of redemption, which are observed 
 by a large section of the Christian world. The Advent of 
 our Lord, the Nativity, the Resurrection, the Ascension, and 
 the Giving of the Holy Spirit, — to the commemoration of 
 these special epochs, a Sabbath might well be set apart ; 
 while the services that would be appropriate for Good Friday 
 and the Passion Sabbath find their counterpart in our days 
 of communion. In reference to the latter, there are not a 
 few who think it desirable that the holy ordinance of the 
 Lord's Supper should be more frequently observed; and that 
 a very material improvement would be effected could we 
 dispense with the preparatory observances, except a single 
 devotional service on some day or evening preceding the 
 celebration of that most delightful feast. In fact, with all 
 our just antagonism to Rome, there is in our practice, as re- 
 gards the Lord's Supper, a species of Romanistic spu-it lurk- 
 ing, — and the time-honoured custom of Scotland is certainly 
 at variance with primitive custom. How many invalids are 
 debarred from the observance of this ordinance by reason of 
 the unfrequency of its celebration '? What delightful and in- 
 spiring views are thus withheld from our congregations ! The 
 Christians in primitive times met together weekly to " break 
 bread," as well as to hear words of exhortation, and to join 
 in prayer and praise ; and, surely, a quarterly observance of 
 the Lord's Supper would not furnish the too-frequent oppor- 
 tunity of commemorating the sacrifice of the Redeemer. 
 
 Our dissenting friends, — and we blame not, but praise 
 them for it, — have here taken a stride in advance of our 
 existing practice ; as, in some other respects, they have 
 shown a finer appreciation of the wants of the spiritual nature. 
 Lady Glenorchy's, and, we believe, one or two other chapels 
 in Edinburgh, (we think New Street, formerly, was one), 
 afforded by their more frequent dispensation of this ordinance, 
 opportunities now denied to the devout in our communion. 
 To the " little sacrament" in the first mentioned of these 
 
32 
 
 places, many of our citizens resorted : and is it impossible 
 that a similar practice should be revived ? 
 
 As matters stand, the writer of these remarks is pained to 
 repeat, that the church, in which he is an office-bearer, is 
 standiiif/ still, — failing to read the " signs of the times." 
 With the exception of our Endowment Scheme, so zealously- 
 worked by Professor Robertson, and which, by God's pro- 
 vidence, is building up some of the waste places of our Zion, 
 what progress is the Church of Scotland making in taking 
 up the " land" that is yet to be " possessed" ? Is she moving 
 onward, and seeking to comprise the spiritually destitute 
 within her pale, — or are not other bodies stepping in to 
 occupy the outlying ground, and so far depriving her of the 
 honour of being the national church of the land.* 
 
 We might say a great deal more in reference to this, but 
 it would lead us to deviate from the main object of our pamph- 
 let. As specimens of what we consider to be peculiarly ap- 
 propriate and scriptural forms of devotion for the particular 
 seasons to which we have alluded, we commend the following 
 to the notice of our readers. They are extracted from 
 " Liturgical Contributions," contained in the " Mercersburg 
 Quarterly Review" for July 1856, which has been recently 
 forwarded to us by a gentleman, who takes much interest in 
 this matter, and whose statement is appended : — 
 ^Pragers for iFestifaal Seasons. 
 
 I. ADVENT. 
 CCANTICLE.) 
 
 Sing unto the Lord anew song; and Lis praise from the end of tbe earth, ye 
 tliat go down to the sea, and all that is therein. Let the wilderness and the cities 
 thereof lift up their voice ; let the inhabitants of the rock sing, let them shout from 
 the tops of the mountains. Let them give glory unto the Lord, and declare His 
 praise among the heathen. 
 
 The Lord hath comforted His people ; He hath made bare His holy arm iu tbe 
 eyes of all nations : and all the ends of the earth shall see tbe salvation of our God. 
 
 Say to tbe daughter of Zion, behold, thy salvation cometb; behold his reward is 
 with him, and bis work before him. Fear thou not ; for I am with thee : be not 
 dismayed ; for I am thy God : I will strengthen thee ; yea, I will help thee. Unto 
 you, that fear my name, shall the Sun of Righleousness arise with healing in his 
 wings ! 
 
 Tbe glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it. Death shall 
 be swallowed up in victory, and God will wipe away all tears from our eyes. And 
 
 ♦ See on tluj> solijoct a painplilet entitled " The Cliurcli of Scotland's Duty to the Masses," 
 by the Rev. A. R. Bonar of Canongate, which we commend to general attention. 
 
33 
 
 it shall be said iu that dav, Lo, this is our God; we ha?e waited for Him, and Le 
 will save us : this is the Lord ; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and re- 
 joice iu his salvation. 
 
 Sanctify and prepare yoarselves to look upon the glory of our God ; for the Lord 
 Cometh. Prepare ye the way of the Lord and make his paths straight ; let us serve 
 Him with gladness aud come before his presence with singing I Blessed is He 
 that Cometh in the name of the Lord ! 
 
 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the 
 beginning, is now. and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. 
 
 II. CHRISTMAS. 
 
 1. 
 
 (CAXTICLK.) 
 
 Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy ; for unto you is bom this day, a 
 Saviour, which is Christ the Lord ! 
 
 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good-will toward men ! Unto 
 us a Child is bom ; unto us a Son is given, and the government is upon his shoul- 
 der. Aud his name is. Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting 
 Father, the Prince of Peace. 
 
 God hath remembered his covenant and sent salvation to his people. When the 
 fulness of time had come, God sent forth his Son. made of a woman, made under 
 the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. Israel is saved by the Lord 
 with an everlasting salvation. 
 
 This is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes. This is the day the 
 Lord hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Behold, now is the accepted 
 time I Behold, now is the day of salvation ! 
 
 Say among the heathen, that the Lord reigneth. Let the heavens rejoice aud let 
 the earth be glad ; for He shall judge the world with righteousness and the people 
 with his truth; Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord I Blessed be 
 the kingdom of our father David ! Hosannah in the highest I 
 
 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the 
 beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end I Amen: 
 
 PBATEB. 
 
 Almighty God, Father of all mercies, through whose grace we are permitted once 
 more to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, we approach into 
 thy presence at this lime with holy joy, to praise aud magnify thv great name for 
 the unspeakable gift of thy Sou, who hath brought hfe and immortahty to light. 
 Thou hast visited aud redeemed thy people, and raised up an bom of salvation for 
 us in the house of thy servant David, that we, being deUvered out of the hand of 
 our enemies, might serve thee without fear, iu holiness and righteousness, all the 
 days of our life. Thou hast gloriously fulfilled thy promises, given to our first 
 parents after the fall, to the patriarchs, to Moses aud the prophets, and to all thine 
 ancient people who w.iited in hope for the salvation of Israel. When the fulness 
 of the time was come, thou didst send forth thy Son, made of a woman, made 
 tmder the law. to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the 
 adoption of sons and inheritance of everlasting life. 
 
 Truly grt^at is the mystery of godliness : God was manifest in the flesh, justified 
 
 E 
 
34 
 
 in tbe Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, 
 received up into glory. 
 
 Bestow upon us, God, a simple, child-like faith, that with the shepherds and 
 the wise men of the East, we may visit the manger of Bethlehem, there to adore the 
 new born King of Israel and offer unto him the tribute of our hearts. Give us 
 grace to beliold the glory shining through the veil of his humanity, the glory of tbe 
 Only Begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. May Christ indeed be bom 
 in us by the power of the Holy Ghost. And as he, in infinite love to us poor sin- 
 ners, descended from heaven to earth, and assumed our nature, and became flesh of 
 our flesh and bone of our bone, so may we have power to ascend from earth to 
 heaven and to be partakers of his divine nature, to tbe glory of thy great and 
 adorable name. 
 
 Finally, we beseech thee to extend, through thy ministering servants, the good 
 tidings of great joy, which we bear this day, and which are for all people, to the 
 uttermost parts of the earth. Let the day spring from on high visit every nation 
 to give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide 
 their feet in the way of peace. Hasten the time, when the angel's anthem shall 
 resound over all lands : Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will 
 toward men, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
 
 A SECOND PBAYEB. 
 
 O thou God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, at this holy season, when thy 
 believing people in all parts of the world are met to celebrate the memory of the 
 Saviour's birth, we too lift up our hearts to thee, and bring thee our humble tribute 
 of praise and thanksgiviug. 
 
 Thou didst so love the world as to send thine only-begotten Son, that whosoever 
 believeth in him might not perish, but have everlasting life. Thou didst sufiier 
 him to be born of the blessed Virgin, to assume our nature, to take upou him our 
 infirmities and bear our sicknesses, to die the cursed death of the cross, that we 
 might live. 
 
 Lord, we joyfully acknowledge and thank thee, that by this birth and this 
 death we attain unto everlasting life and become heirs of thy kingdom. We adore 
 thy name. We praise thy mercy. All the angelic hosts admire thy glorious grace ; 
 and, as long as men shall dwell upon the earth thy praise sliall resound, and every 
 tongue shall sing : Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, and good-will 
 toward men ! 
 
 Jesus, thou Son of God, we bless thee for becoming flesh of our flesh, and bone 
 of our bone, and beseech thee, that we may be made partakers of the fruits of thy 
 redemption. Thou, who art the Son of God, the joy and glory of ihe human race, 
 the Lamb of God, that takeih away the sin of the world, have mercy upon us ! 
 Thou, who didst descend to earth, and become like one of us in all things, sin only 
 fxcepted; who didst die and rise again and return to the bosom of the Father, 
 there to prepare mansions of rest for thy people, hear our prayer, and let our songs 
 of praise come up acceptably before thee. 
 
 Thou, who didst come to destroy the works of the Devil, deliver us from all our 
 sins and make us able to renounce them. As thou wert born in a manger, and 
 didst lead a life of poverty and sorrow, and humble thyself unto death, even the 
 death of the cross, so may we also have power to despise the vaia pomps of this 
 world, and strive only after the heavenly glory and eternal felicity, which thou hast 
 
35 
 
 purchased for us with tliy blood. As thou hnst loved us, so also may xve love thoe 
 and let notliing separate us from thy love. 
 
 O God, because we believe thy dear Son was boru to raise us to elerunl life, 
 teach us rightly to perceive that by this faith and this hope we are bound to purify 
 ourselves eveu as he is pure, so that we may worthily celebrate thy praise and enjoy 
 the glory, which is yet to he revealed to us ; and when our great Redeemer shall 
 come again, a second lime, in the clouds of heaven, with all his holy angels, may 
 we become like him, in the kingdom of his glory, where he lives and reigus, God 
 over all, blessed for ever ! Ameu. 
 
 We reluctantly omit the New Year's day Service, which 
 is very impressive, but cannot deny ourselves the pleasure of 
 quoting the " Good Friday" service, which with the " Act 
 of Humiliation " following, may suggest useful materials for 
 devotional service on Communion Sabbaths : — 
 1. 
 (SantitU. 
 
 Christ our passover was offered for us as on this day He was delivered for our 
 offences ; He bore our sins in his own body on the tree, and the Lord laid on hint 
 the iniquity of us all. His soul was sorrowful, eveu unto death ; He was brought 
 as a lamb to the slaughter ; He humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, 
 even the death of the cross. He was taken from prison and from judgment ; He 
 was cut oif out of the laud of the living. 
 
 Sing praises unto our God and the Lamb, and say : Thou wast slain, and hast 
 redeemed us out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation ; thou hast 
 made us unto our God, kings and priests. Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to re- 
 ceive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, for ever 
 and ever. All creatures which are in heaven, and on the earth, ascribe blessing 
 and honour nnto Him that sitteth upon the throne and unto the Lamb .' Now is 
 come salvation and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his 
 Christ; If God be for us, who can be against us ? He spared not his only begot- 
 ten Son, but delivered him up for us all ; how shall he not with him also freely 
 give us all things. 
 
 Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and hath 
 made us kings and priests unto God and his Father, to him be glory and dominion 
 for ever and ever. 
 
 Glory be to the Father, to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, which is, and which 
 was, and which is to come, God over all blessed for ever more. Amen. 
 
 PRAYER. 
 
 Lord Jesus Christ, eternal Son of God, our blessed Redeemer, give us grace, 
 we beseech thee, worthily to celebrate on this day thine unfathomable love to a sin- 
 ful and guilty world. Thou wast pleased to descend from the throne of thy 
 heavenly glory, to assume our human nature, to be persecuted, denied, betrayed, 
 condemned, and nailed to the cross, that we miserable sinners might be delivered 
 from the curse of the law and escape the just sentence of everlasting damnation. 
 Thou wast wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities. The 
 
36 
 
 chastisement of our peace was upon tUee ; and witli tby stripes we are healed. All 
 we, like sheep, have gone astray ; we have turned every one to his own way, and 
 the Lord hath laid on thee the iniquity of us all. Thou, who knew no sin, hast been 
 made sin for us, that we might be made the righteousness of God in thee. Thou 
 wast slain aud hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred and 
 tongue, and people and nation, and by one offering hast perfected for ever them that 
 are sanctified. 
 
 Therefore, with the ten thousand times ten thousand and all the heavenly host of 
 the redeemed, we would unite in saying : Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to re- 
 ceive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and blessing. We 
 bless thee for all the burdens thou hast borne, for all the tears thou hast wept, for all 
 the pains thou hast suflFered, for every drop of blood thou hast shed, for every word of 
 comfort thou hast spoken on the cross, for every conflict with the powers of darkness, 
 and for thine eternal victory over the terrors of death and the pains of hell. 
 
 Impress upon this day, Lord, a lively sense of the terrible nature of our sin and 
 guilt, which called for so costly a sacrifice, and of the unutterable love of God, who 
 spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all. May we hate and abhor 
 sin more than ever, and live hereafter not unto ourselves, but unto him who died for 
 us and rose again. May we always remember that we are not our own, but bought 
 with a price, and bound to glorify God in our body and in our spirit, which are thine. 
 Give us grace to cleave to thy cross in prosperity and adversity, in the trials and 
 temptations of life, in the agonies of death and in the day of judgment. Make ua 
 willing and ready to suffer and to die for thee, who didst die for us, that being par- 
 takers of thy sufferings, we may become partakers also of thy glorious resurrection 
 and ascension. 
 
 And now unto Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness and the First-begotten of 
 the dead, and the Prince of the kings of the earth, unto Him that loved us and 
 washed us from our sins in His own blood, and hath made us kings and priests 
 unto God and His Father ; to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. 
 Amen. 
 
 3. 
 
 AN ACT 01 HUMILIATION AND PRAISE FOR THE DEATH OF CHRIST. 
 
 The Lamb, that was slain, is worthy to receive might, and riches, and wisdom, 
 and strength, and honour, and praise, and blessing. 
 
 [Congregation: Amen.] 
 
 Cast yourselves down, and bend yoiu- hearts before the Lord that redeemed us I 
 Unto the Lamb that was slain, give glory ! Let us give thanks unto our Lord and 
 Saviour, and say : 
 
 Lord Jesus Christ ! Thou holy and spotless Son of God, that takest away the sin 
 of the world, we heartily thank thee for thy holy passion, and thy death, for thy 
 sorrow and anguish of heart, for thy pains and wounds, for all that thou didst en- 
 dure in body and soul. Thou didst come into the world to save sinners ; the light 
 shone into darkness, but the darkness comprehended it not. Thy people Israel, the 
 seed of Abraham, rejected thee ; the Scribes and Pharisees blasphemed thee : the 
 Sadduces mocked thee ; the High-priest and the Council unjustly condemned thee, 
 the Son of God ; the people that yesterday cried unto thee, Hosannah, to-day cried 
 out. Crucify Him. The heathen Governor declared thine innocence, and yet de- 
 
37 
 
 livered tbec over into the hands of the unrighteous ; thou wast dragged from judg- 
 ment seat to judgment seat, scourged and beaten, a derision of the people. Thy dis- 
 ciples forsook thee : Judas betrayed thee ; Peter denied thee. Lo, the sins of the 
 whole world conspired and rose up against thee, and thou didstbear them. 
 
 ICoiiffretfation : For this we tliaiik thee, Lord Jesus.] 
 
 Lord, Lord, merciful Saviour aud Son of Man. thou didst reward hatred with 
 love, cruelty with compassion. Neither malice nor blindness, neither craft nor 
 weakness could make thee swerve from fulfilling the purpose of thy grace. Thou 
 didst willingly deliver up thyself to scorn aud reproach : aud as a lamb led to the 
 slaughter is dumb, so thou openedst not thy mouth. Upon the disciple that de- 
 nied thee, thou didst cast a look of sorrowful love ; iu the very moment, when the 
 multitude demiuided thy crucifixion, thou wast resolved to pour out thy blood for 
 their redemption; aud even on the cross, thou didst open the gates of Paradise to 
 the malefactor, and pray for thy murderers ! 
 
 ICoHffrfgation : For tliis we thank thee. Lord Jesus.] 
 
 Lord, Lord, eternal only begotten Son of God ! Thou didst not look upon the 
 sin of the world like one of us , thou hadst no pleasure in our wickedness. Thou, 
 Eternal Sou of the Father, didst not overlook or excuse the rebellion of our race 
 against the Father, aud agdnst thee, his anointed, but didst concur in the coausel 
 of eternal justice, that upon sin the wrath and curse of God must rest 1 But, 
 Lord, in thee with eternal aud inexorable justice hath also appeared everlasting un- 
 fathomable love. Thou didst take the curse of sin, which was due to us, upon thy- 
 self. Thou didst endure the agony of soul, which we should have endured. Thou 
 didst tremble in Gethsemane before the strict justice of God, where we should have 
 trembled ! Surely thou didst bear our griefs and carry our sorrows ! 
 
 [Congregation : For this we th;uik thee. Lord Jesus.] 
 
 Lord Jesus Christ, thou hast manifested all the might aud eternal energy of Love, 
 and illustrated the glory of thy Father upon the earth, when thou didst, as our 
 surety, give thyself to the cross, and didst bear the sins of all mankind, in our 
 stead ! 
 
 We thank thee that thou didst sufler thyself to be bound, that we might be made 
 free; accused, that we might be made righteous; reviled, that we might come to 
 honour. We thank thee, that thou didst wear the crowu of thorns, that we might 
 receive the crowu of righteousness. Thou didst sufier thyself to be clothed with 
 purple, that we might be arrayed in the white robe of salvation. Thou, the Prince 
 of Life, didst bow thy head in death, that we, the bond-servants of death might be 
 raised to life iu thee. The penalty was laid on thee, that we might have peace, and 
 through thy wounds we are healed ! 
 
 [Congregation : For this we thank thee, Lord Jesus.] 
 
 Lord, our Saviour and Redeemer 1 The sin of the worid, that brought thee to 
 the cross, also dwelleth iu us. Behold, we acknowledge our unrighteousness, and 
 do not cloak our sin before thee. Of the flesh we have inherited corruption ; death 
 has passed upon us, because we all have simied. The folly of the Jewish people, 
 who esteemed not their salvation, dwelleth also in us ; we too, by nature, seek not 
 the things which are above, but those things which are upon the earth. The hatred 
 of the high priests and scribes dwelleth also in us ; we too hate, by natm^, him 
 who spenketh to us the truth. The unbelief of the Sadduces dwelleth in ns ; 
 we too, by nature, cling to the things we can see and handle, aud despise the invi- 
 sible truth. The unrighteousness of the heathen governor dwelleth in us ; we 
 
38 
 
 too, inquire more after our pleasure and ease, tliau after the will of tby Father. The 
 covetousness, whicli led the betrayer to bis crime, has its root also in our hearts. 
 The weakness of Peter is our weakness ; Lord, how often have we denied thee ! 
 
 Lord, we confess with deep shame : In all our sins, we have sinned against thee ! 
 Ours, even ours is the sin which thou didst bear. Even our sins brought thee to 
 the cross ! 
 
 [Congregation : Have mercy upon us. Lord Jesus.] 
 
 Eternal, compassionate High Priest, have mercy upon us ! Forgive us our sins 
 for the sake of thy death ! Wash us thoroughly from all our uncleanness ; let the 
 remembrance of thy bitter sufferings be ever present to our souls, and let usjnever 
 forget, how much it cost thee to redeem us. Let a glance at thy cross make us 
 tremble at every sin ! Let the blessed assurance, that, through thee our sins are 
 forgiven, kindle in our hearts the flame of love and thankfulness. 
 
 Lord, yet once more, we Uft our hands to thee and bless thee, Lord Jesus, for 
 thy death. Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches, and 
 wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. Everlasting adoration 
 and praise be unto thee. Lord Jesus Christ, who with the Father and the Holy 
 Spirit, in unity of essence, livest and reignest true God for evermore. 
 
 [Congregation : Amen.] 
 
 We also give the Easter-day Service • — 
 
 V. EASTERDAY. 
 1. 
 
 CTsnticIe. 
 
 Christ our Passover has risen. He was dead, and behold he is alive for ever- 
 more, and hath the keys of hell and death. 
 
 Christ our Passover was dead, a sacrifice for our sins. Therefore we keep the 
 feast no more with the leaven of malice and wickedness ; but with the unleavened 
 bread of sincerity and truth. 
 
 Christ is risen from the dead, and henceforth dieth no more ; death hath no more 
 dominion over him. He died unto sin once, but now he liveth unto God ; the 
 Prince of Life could not be holden of death. 
 
 God did not leave his soul in the grave, nor suffer his Holy One to see'corrup- 
 tiou. He was dead, and behold he is alive again, and hath the keys of hell and of 
 death. 
 
 Christ is risen, the first fruits of them that slept. Since by man came death, by 
 man came also the resurrection of the dead ; and as in Adam all die, even so in 
 Christ shall all be made ahve, at his coming. 
 
 Death is swallowed up for ever ! Death, where is thy sting ? Grave, where 
 is thy victory ? Thanks be unto God, which giveth us the victory, through our Lord 
 Jesus Christ. 
 
 Glory be to God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, in the Church that is 
 in Christ, for ever and ever ! Amen. 
 
 THE PRAYER. 
 
 Blessed be God, who, by his mighty power, wrought in Christ, and raised him 
 
 1 from the dead ! 
 
 ; Thou didst not, gracious Father ! suflFer thine Holy One to see corruption j 
 
39 
 
 ihou didst show him the path of life; thou didst raise up iliy Son Jesus ; thou didst 
 make him both Lord aud Christ; and thou wilt also raise us up from the death of 
 sin, together with him, and make us sit with him in heavenly places. 
 
 Blessing aud honour, be likewise unto thee, thou Prince of Life, thou that sayest 
 unto us : " I was dead, and behold. I am alive again for evermore, and hold the 
 keys of hell aud of death !" Thou art risen, and our faith is not vain ; we are no 
 more in our sins, aud those who have fallen asleep in thee are not lost ; thou art 
 risen from the dead and become the first fruits of them that sleep. Death is swal- 
 lowed up in victory. O Death, where is thy sting? Grave, where is thy 
 victory ? 
 
 Speak, risen Lord, by thy Spirit, words of eternal life to our souls, aud call 
 unto them : Because I live, ye shall live also, that henceforth, we may not live unto 
 ourselves, but uuto thee who didst die and rise again for us. Yea, let the hearts of 
 all that to this hour are sunk in the death of sin, be penetrated by the voice of thine 
 Almighty power, the voice that cries : Awake, thou that sleepest, arise from the 
 dead, and Christ shall give thee light, so that they may now leave their dark grave, 
 and as children of light, walk henceforth iu newness of life. 
 
 O Thou, who art the Resurrection and the Life, make tlie Holy Supper also of 
 which we shall this day piurtake, a source of blessing to them who are strong iu 
 faith, and to them who are weak, that by means of this spiritual repast all may 
 be stirred up to a daily growth in the divine life. 
 
 Endue all that are iu authority with wisdom and the fear of thy holy name, that 
 we may lead a quiet aud peaceable life, iu all godliness and honesty. 
 
 Give to the churches, which thou hast purchased with thine own blood, shepherds 
 who shall take heed unto themselves, aud to the whole flock, aud let all teachers 
 hold fast the form of sound words of faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 
 
 Graut unto all p.irents grace, that they may bring up their children iu the nurture 
 and admouidou of the Lord ; and incline all cLildreu to Louour their parents, that 
 it may be well with them. 
 
 Eefresh with thy peace, Prince of Life, all who are iu distress and temptatiou ; 
 have compassion upon all who are wrestling with disease and death ; make them 
 living witnesses to the power of thy resurrection, that each may be enabled to say 
 from blessed experience : I know that my Redeemer liveth. 
 
 Lonl, our Saviour! when we pass through the valley of the shadow of death, 
 may thy rosun-e ctiou be to our faith a sure ple.lge of participation iu the unfading 
 iuheritttiice of that eternal Ufe which thou hast prepared for all them that love thy 
 appearing. 
 
 thou God of pe.ice, who hast brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus 
 Christ, tliat great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting cove- 
 uaut, make us perfect in every good work, to do thy will, working in us that which 
 is well plejisiug iu thy sight, through Jesus Christ thy beloved Sou our Lord ; in 
 whose name we say: 
 
 Our Father, ,!<e. 
 
 Our readers who have paid attention to the matter \\ill 
 doubtless think that these forms of devotion arc highly ap- 
 propriate in themselves. AVc shall only give another speci- 
 men,— the prayer for " Whitsunday," as it is styled, but 
 
40 
 
 which may well suggest hints for other occasions, — omitting 
 the preliminary verses : — 
 
 thou Author of peace and Lover of concord, in knowledge of whom standeth our 
 eternal life ; and whose service is perfect freedom ; cleanse the thoughts of our hearts, 
 by the inspiration of thy Holy Spirit ; and give us grace, whereby we may serve 
 thee acceptably, with reverence and with godly fear. 
 
 We thank thee for all that thy beloved Son Jesus did, and taught, and suffered. 
 We CBpecially bless thee, at this time, for those gracious words of comfort which he 
 spake in the immediate prospect of the hour and power of darkness. Do thou Work 
 in our souls a principle of living faith in Him, that amidst all the sorrows of this mor- 
 tal life, we may be enabled to place our confidence in thee, and elevate our thoughts 
 and affections to those many mansions in his Father's house, which our exalted 
 Saviour has gone to prepare for his believing people. 
 
 ascended Lord and Saviour Jesus ! we thank thee, that having received of the 
 Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, thou didst so wonderfully, as on this day, fill 
 thy disciples with the blessed gift, baptizing them with the Holy Ghost and enabling 
 th^m to go forth, as thy ambassadors to all nations, speaking with new tongues, and 
 proclaiming far and wide, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself. 
 
 Holy Spirit ! Thou who art true and eternal God, with the Father and the Son; 
 who art also given to us, to make us, by a true faith, partakers of Christ and all his 
 benefits ; fulfil in us, we beseech thee, the mission of love, and abide with us forever. 
 
 Spirit of light and truth, lead us into all truth, enlighten our minds and expel from 
 them all darkness. Spirit of prayer and supplication, teach us to pray aright, and 
 thou thyself make intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Spirit 
 of power, absist us by thy might, be with us in our temptations, confirm us continu- 
 a'ly by thy grace, and evermore draw us towards that which is good. 
 
 Spirit of Loliness, sanctify our understanding and our heart, purify our affections 
 and enable us to be faithful each one in his calling. Spirit of comfort, our Comforter, 
 abide with us for ever ; comfort us in all our tribulation, and fill us at all times with 
 joy unspeakable and full of glory. Spirit of peace, infuse into us the temper of peace, 
 meekness, and mutual love. 
 
 Holy Spirit ! thou Spirit of God, who didst descend upon the Apostles in cloven 
 tongues like as of fire, and bestow upon them power to proclaim the wonderful works 
 of God ; kindle in our hearts the celestiiil fire of holy thoughts, and fervent prayers; 
 fill us with true zeal to glorify thee and edify our neighbour, by words and deeds 
 which are well pleasing in thy sight! 
 
 O God, cast us not away from thy presence, and take not thy Holy Spirit from 
 us I Suffer us not to quench, grieve, or resist Him. Rather may he dwell in us, as 
 his temple ; may he be our guide through this mortal life ; so that we may rejoice 
 always in his heavenly consolations, and having finished our course may attain at 
 last to the resurrection of the body, by the Spirit of Christ which dwelleth in us, and 
 be found worthy to enter into thy glory ; there to praise Thee, the Father, the Son, 
 and the Holy Ghost, throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. 
 
 From a very suggestive article in the same work, we ex- 
 tract the subjoined remarks on the modern style of prayer: — 
 
41 
 
 The modem prayer is subjective; it is the individual prajiug for himself with u 
 conscious personal application; the modern prayer is discursive, it endeavours to 
 pray for everything by way of particular mention ; so that, U» be at all inclusive and 
 satisfactory, it must become scientific. That is to say, it lies under the necessity 
 of formal classification as to its elements, and so is constantly led oft" towards the 
 catechism, towards the doctrinal symbol. The Liturgical prayer, ou the opposite 
 Land, gives to the mind and heart a series of collectual forms, pregnant sentences, 
 sacred formulas and voiceful responsals, which have the force of prescriptive embo- 
 diments, suggestive of whole classes of religious needs, feelings, states, and de- 
 sires; so that the same utterance in the service will be equally applicable to very 
 different states of mind among the people. For example, the particular and narra- 
 tive subjeetive prayer can only be followed by those whose present state is met as it 
 proceeds in its petitions. Of course, we mean, as it respects the satisfaction of spe- 
 cial states of heart. If it be a good prayer, it can be followed by all present; but it 
 comes home to special feelings only as it supplies particular applications to such 
 existing states of feeling. Hence the prayer must be very long, very particular, and 
 very numerical. On the other hand, let the call Sumum curda in the Liturgy come, 
 «nd all men, the penitent, the heavy laden, the happy and rejoicing, can equally find 
 it good to lift up their spirits to the heavenly Presence. So too, how many suites 
 of heart are ever to be found in tbe congregation, to which the single versicle, " Tlie 
 Lord be with you," and the required return of blessing, " and with thy spirit," is a 
 more healing cordial, and a more helpful prayer, than any personal petition could be, 
 at the time ? Thus, the Liturgical prayer is objective, it looks to heaven, it worships 
 with angels, it moves amidst bodily realities, and it prays for spiritual things under 
 tangible forms ; thus leading the individual out of himself, and turning the parti- 
 cular voice of his private devotions into the one great voice of the Body, which is 
 the Church. This is a point which we feel to be of the utmost importance. It is 
 our firm conviction, for example, that to a spiritually minded Christian, the liturgi- 
 cal prayer is more spiritual, more scripturally spiritual, and more safe, or at least 
 more catholic, as the norm for the cultivatiou of the devotional habits, and so fiu- 
 forth of the Christian character and piety, than the particularising form, which enu- 
 merates every actual present state, and gives expression to religious feelings only, 
 or chiefly, in the way of express and literal iietiiions. How often do we find young 
 Christians, down hearted and melancholic, as well as excessively pietistic Chris- 
 tians, to whom we would say, leave off for a while the direct consideration of 
 your individual cases, and sing a hullelujah Psalm, praise the Lord in a Doxology, 
 say the Lord's Prayer, make supplication for the " king and all in authority," forget 
 yourself in the body and mingle your note in the universal voice of the Church. 
 How often is the private Christian in that state when labouring under trial or temp- 
 tation, he has well nigh strangled himself in his vain attempts to elaborate bis 
 prayers to his particular distress, and the Lord's Prayer, if lie is so fortunate as to 
 be accustomed to its use, comes in like an angel from the skies, leading him out of 
 prison. Now we are free to admit, that the Christian who thinks, in the jictition, 
 " Give us this day our daily bread," of nothing but temporal blessings, is in danger 
 of resting on carnal ground; but the Christian, who, together with this, and under 
 this form, holds in the view of his spirit, that unspeakable mystery of the Incarna- 
 tion, through the grace of which the Holy Spirit feeds his soul and body and spirit, 
 — the Christian who, under the form of earthly bread, and while praying for eorthly 
 ■bread and nil things, is praying for the coiisummntion of the bread of life within him, 
 
 F 
 
42 
 
 — that Cbristian we believe to be making quite as spiritual a prayer, as when he is 
 praying more directly for abstract spiritual graces. It is our opinion, indeed, that, 
 eo doing, he is engaged in making a more spiritual prayer than the other, and one 
 infinitely more so, than what generally goes by the name of " spiritual." The in- 
 spired word of God teaches us, that the prayer for spiritual blessings under tangible 
 and actual forms, should characteriss our habits of prayer, for the same reason that 
 the Person of our Saviour should characterise our theological and religious views. 
 As that Christian is the most scripturally spiritual, who makes the most of what the 
 Holy Scriptures make the All in All, namely, the Lord Jesus, the Son of David, the 
 Son of God ; so that habit of prayer is the most scripturally, and of course, the most 
 truly spiritual, which is formed upon the Lord's Prayer. The Lord's Prayer is like 
 the Liturgical prayers, it is not like the modern prayer. 
 
 The following remarks also deserve attention: — 
 
 Let us get the best service we can. We believe that any one of the Reformed 
 Liturgies is preferable to an unstudied service ; while, at the same time, we believe 
 that they are all so very defective, that we should hesitate to fix the weekly devo- 
 tions of a congregation to the perpetual use of any one of them. Still we are not 
 permitted to look upon this matter on merely abstract grounds. Doubtless there 
 are clergymen in our Churches who do make the service a matter of most con- 
 scientious study, and whose services, therefore, are satisfactory and edifying. But 
 when we call to mind the cases of our younger brethren, when we recollect how 
 many of our ministers feel that they ought 7iot to make liturgical preparations, when 
 we think of the feeble churches on our borders, in remote country places, and of 
 churches, without pastors, and then too when we think of our crying need of bap- 
 tismal, eucharistic, marriage and funeral offices, we are almost ready to say, let us 
 have the Liturgy, and let us have it fixed; though it be no more complete than 
 Baxter's or Calvin's, still it would be far better, on the whole, than the actual state 
 of things. There is, however, a more excellent way. Let us have a good and large 
 selection of the Reformed Liturgies printed, andltt us have a large collection of the 
 old Liturgies, at least those known as the four great Liturgies, printed with them, 
 and let us have a copy of the Book of Comnjon Prayer by their side. If this were 
 done, and our ministers would consent to study these volumes, the very best thing 
 would, in the end, be secured and accomplished. We are not to forget, however, 
 that the people also are of the Church. We may not impose a form on any people. 
 We may not volunteer to trouble any people hy the question, who are getting on well 
 enough for themselves, and do not wish to be troubled about it. We may judge 
 their way to be very defective, but if they are not in positive error, it behoves us to 
 proceed very carefully and then to do very kindly, and to do without noise, what- 
 ever we may think it our duty to do, in order to improve the devotional practice of 
 such as wish for improvement. The work, however, like every reformation work, 
 must in some way proceed from the clergy. Our own opinion is, that it should 
 proceed in the way intimated. Let a minister study the old, as well as the Kefor- 
 mation forms. This will naturally affect his own practice : he will come to make 
 liturgical prayers more than didactic prayers. Trinity prayers more than Judaic 
 prayers ; he will make more of the simple Word of God in the service : he will of 
 course use the Lord's Prayer; he will introduce Trinity hymns, instead of sermon 
 hymns ; he will us« the creed ; he will introduce the doxologics ; he may get his 
 people to chaunt the Te Bcum, and the greater Gloria; he may even, after a 
 
43 
 
 ^asnii, iuvile liis people to say the Lord's Prayer with Lim, to say Amen, aud to 
 read the Psalter together, AD these things may a minister gradually do, if so be he 
 conscientiously believe the people's piety would be beueliied by them. If not, he 
 had better leave their ways alone. Now when these things are done, a proper 
 liturgical work is doue. A people thus prudently and piously trained, will soon feel 
 the propriety of a common attitude of worship, soon fe^l the sententious and sug- 
 gestive force of a good office, soon recover the objective idea and feeling of the 
 Church, and it will not be long before they will request that these forms be printed 
 for themselves and for their children. The way is then open, and we can answer 
 their request by placing in their hands, and placing in the pulpit, such a Liturgy as 
 the united work of the primitive and the Reformation Church, in these respects, 
 will furnish. Luther and Basil, Bucerand Cyril, Cranmer and Ambrose and Calvin 
 and Augustine, will have joined hands around the holy altar of the Church and the 
 true day of freedom and love, of good will and good service, will have come. 
 
 The question regarding the propriety of having very con- 
 siderable additions made to the materials now at command 
 for publicly celebrating the praises of God, has frequently 
 been debated. The idea has been repudiated by a class of 
 persons, who, from conscientious motives, but, in our opinion, 
 with mistaken views, disapprove of employing in the service 
 of the sanctuary any thing beyond the contents of the Book 
 of Psalms, as presented in our own antique, often spirited, 
 and generally faithful version. Consistently enough, these 
 maintainers of former practices look with a jealous eye even 
 on the Paraphrases, or metrical versions of passages of 
 Scripture, which many years since obtained the sanction of 
 the General Assembly, and have been long in common use ; 
 a collection which, as a whole — for we will not undertake to 
 defend every stanza or particular expression — is of high ex- 
 cellence, the materials of which a portion of them is made up 
 having been judiciously selected with great attention to good 
 taste and simpHcity of expression, while the original composi- 
 tions introduced are, in general, of corresponding excellence. 
 
 A somewhat strong feeling, however, has been entertained, 
 that if we admit the propriety of making use of paraphrases 
 and hymns in public worship and in family devotion, the col- 
 lection referred to is one which must be considered as imper- 
 fect and incomplete. While the composition of a really good 
 hymn is one of the highest eiForts of consecrated genius, so 
 many individuals of piety and poetic talent, since the days of 
 
44 
 
 Watts and Doddridge — from whose compositions the selected 
 materials of our collection of Paraphrases were chiefly culled 
 — have added their contributions to the general stock, that 
 the subject has very properly of late excited a considerable 
 amount of interest. Since 1781, when the collection of 
 Paraphrases now in use was ordered by the General Assembly 
 to be transmitted for consideration to the various Presby- 
 teries, permission being meantime given for their use in pub- 
 lic worship, in congregations where the minister found this 
 to be for edification — the expense of printing the collection 
 being likewise ordered to be defrayed from the public funds 
 of the Church — many rich contributions have been made to 
 the " service of song ;" and the warmer and more fervid 
 feelings of devotion may be gratified by selections from the 
 compositions of individuals whose hymns were not included 
 in the collection appended to our version of the Psalms. "We 
 are all well aware, indeed, that a committee was, many years 
 since, appointed to consider and report upon the subject, of 
 which the late Dr Brunton was convener, and that applica- 
 tions were made for assistance in various quarters. Year 
 after year, however, no progress of importance was reported ; 
 and at last the subject seemed consigned to oblivion. In 
 the heat of contest about questions of patronage and other 
 matters of debate, a subject of this kind could hardly hope 
 to gain favourable attention ; but we were glad to think, 
 that with the return of internal peace, when the members of 
 our Church have more leisure for considering what may tend 
 to the comfort and edification of their flocks, the question 
 has been revived ; and that a committee was appointed, not 
 to make alterations on the version of the Psalms, which is 
 hallowed by so many endearing associations, or to exclude 
 from the list any of the Paraphrases now in use, (though 
 there are several which we would have no objection to see dis- 
 missed), but to supplement that collection by additions care- 
 fully considered and judiciously selected from amongst the 
 great mass of materials at command. 
 
 The work, even had it been carried through, was rather 
 long of being entered upon, when we remember that almost 
 
45 
 
 every otber body of Christians in the land had previously 
 turned their attention to the subject, with various measures 
 of success ; that none of the compositions of the bard of 
 Olney, nor of James Montgomery, of Charles ^Ye8ley, or 
 Heber, or many others whom we might name, could be em- 
 ployed in the services of our national Zion ; and that but 
 recently the United Presbyterian Church had given its 
 sanction to a very voluminous collection, respecting the 
 merits of which we may hereafter take occasion to speak. 
 Even our Sabbath School children were in this respect bet- 
 ter provided. The lambs of the flock enjoyed a larger amount 
 of privilege, in the delightful and pleasing work of oftering 
 up praise ; while the great bulk of the worshippers in the 
 sanctuary were restricted to a more contracted field. Re- 
 cently, however, as the work has been attempted, and, averse 
 as so many of our fathers and brethren, strongly wedded to 
 old ways, and sometimes unreasonably jealous of improve- 
 ment, have been to regard it with favour — the subject has at 
 least been mooted, though no practical result has yet ac- 
 crued, and we suppose that the committee may be considered 
 as being, to all practical purposes, defunct. It were an act of 
 injustice, to the memory of one who was devotedly attached 
 to the Church of our fathers, not to state, that the impulse 
 to this new and apparently hopeful attempt was given by the 
 late Mr Grainger, whose collection, the solace of many a 
 private hour, and the companion of his journeys,- was, we 
 believe, placed at the service of the members of Committee. 
 
 That collection, deserving of approbation as a memorial of 
 its author's piety, and a proof of the lively interest which he 
 took in the matter attempted, was, we rather think, intended 
 to answer two distinct purposes — the furnishing of a variety 
 of hymns adapted for use not only in the sanctuary, but in 
 the family circle and in the Christian's private retirement. 
 A part only, therefore, of this posthumous work could be 
 serviceable for the purpose in view ; and in addition to the 
 observance of this broad and most obvious line of demarca- 
 tion, a variety of other requisites need to be considered, in 
 order suitably to provide for the end desired. •' A hymn," said 
 the late James Montgomery, no incompetent judge of this 
 
46 
 
 species of devotional composition, " must have a beginning, 
 a middle, and an end. It should have a distinct subject, and 
 that subject should be simple, not complicated, so that what- 
 ever skill or labour might be required in the author to de- 
 velope his plan, there should be little or none required on the 
 part of the reader to comprehend it. There should be a 
 manifest gradation in the thoughts, and their mutual depen- 
 dence should be so perceptible, that thev could not be trans- 
 posed without injuring the unity of the piece ; every line 
 carrying forward the connection, and every verse adding a 
 well-proportioned limb to a symmetrical body." We must 
 not have a series of independent verses, strung together as a 
 variety of images or ideas were suggested to the mind and 
 fancy of the writer : the repetition of figures, phrases, and 
 ideas, that are stereotyped and commonplace. The use of 
 vulgar expressions, of mere word-painting, of elaborate or 
 fantastic imagery, must be avoided ; and while the great 
 truths of the Gospel are to afford the subject matter, these 
 truths, whether arising from Scripture narrative, conveying 
 promises of help to the believer, embodying the confession of 
 unworthiness, or expressive of holy resolution, are to be 
 arrayed in befitting garb. We must not have the high- 
 flown rhapsodies of the enthusiast, expressions of endearment 
 unbefitting the divine Majesty, or the embodiment of senti- 
 ments peculiar only to an individual, in hymns intended for 
 the worship of the sanctuary. These ought to be so general 
 that every pious worshipper may be able to join in them ; 
 they should be suited to the variety of times and seasons, 
 and applicable to those of every rank and condition in life ; 
 as public prayers, while adapted as far as possible to the 
 situation of individuals, ought to contain petitions in which 
 all can join, and thanksgivings in which every devout person 
 can unite. Still farther : what may be beautiful, elevating, 
 and chaste as devotional poetry, may be quite unsuited for 
 employment as a hymn ; for example, even Montgomery's 
 fine stanzas on Prayer are liable, in no small measure, to this 
 exception ; and many other examples of a more flagrant na- 
 ture might be quoted, from a great variety of collections 
 which we have examined. The late Bishop Heber's other- 
 
47 
 
 wise excellent and highly polished compositions are often 
 exceedingly faulty in this respect. An almost ludicrous feel- 
 inf of inappropriateness arises when we hear a mixed con- 
 gregation asked to sing the familiar paraphrase commencing 
 " In life's gay morn ;"' or " The hour of my departure's 
 come ;" or that which begins, " Rulers of Sodom, hear the 
 voice." So, too, the remark holds good of the following 
 stanzas of Heber, beautiful as they are, and which some of 
 our readers may thank us for introducing. 
 
 " The winds were howling o'er the deep, 
 Each wave a watery hill ; 
 The Saviour wakened from His sleep. 
 He spake, and all was still. 
 
 " The madman in a tomb had made 
 His mansion of despair: 
 Woe to the traveller who strayed 
 With heedless footstep there ! 
 
 " The chains hung broken from his arm- 
 Such strength can liell supply — 
 And fiendish hate and fierce alarm. 
 Flashed from his hoUow eye. 
 
 " He met that glance so thrilling sweet 
 He heard those accents mild, 
 And, melting at Messiah's feet, 
 Wept like a weaned chUd. 
 
 " Oh, madder than the raving man! 
 Oh, deafer than the sea ! 
 How long the time since Christ began 
 To call in vain on me ! 
 
 •' He called me when my thoughtless prime 
 Was early ripe to ill ; 
 1 passed from folly on to crime. 
 And yet He called me still. 
 
 " He called me in the time of dread, 
 When death was full in view ; 
 I trembled on my feverish bed, 
 And rose to sin anew ! 
 
 " Yet could I hear him once again, 
 As I have heard of old ; 
 Metliinks He should not call in vain 
 His wanderer to the fold "' 
 
48 
 
 The stanzas entitled " Jerusalem," are liable to the earne 
 objection, and likewise the following hymn : — 
 
 " There was joy in Heaven! 
 There was joy in Heaven I 
 When this goodly world to frame 
 The Lord of might and mercy came : 
 Shouts of joy were heard on high, 
 And the stars sang from the sky — 
 ' (jlory to God in Heaven I' 
 
 " There was joy in Heaven! 
 
 There was joy in Heaven ! 
 
 ^Vhen the billows, heaving dark, 
 
 Sank around the stranded ark. 
 
 And the rainbow's watery span 
 
 Spake of mercy, hope to man, 
 And peace withGod in Heaven I 
 " There was joy in Heaven! 
 
 There was joy in Heaven ! 
 
 When of love the midnight beam 
 
 Dawn'd on the towers of Bethlehem; 
 
 And along the echoing hill 
 
 Angels sang—' On earth good-will, 
 And glory in the Heaven ! 
 
 " There is joy in Heaven! 
 There is joy in Heaven! 
 When the sheep that went astray 
 Turns again to virtue's way ; 
 When the soul, by grace subdued. 
 Sobs its prayer of gratitude, 
 Then is there joy in Heaven! 
 
 Of another cast, though slight in its texture, is the hymn 
 For Easter Day, which is not so well known in the north, as 
 many of Heber's other compositions — 
 
 " God is gone up with a merry noise 
 Of saints that sing on high ; 
 With His own right hand and His holy arm 
 He hath won the victory ! 
 
 " Now empty are the courts of death, 
 And crushed thy stiug, despair ; 
 And roses bloom in the desert tomb, 
 For Jesus hath been there ! 
 
49 
 
 *• And He hath tamed the strength of Hell, 
 And dragg'd him through the sky, 
 And captive behind His chariot wheel. 
 He hath bound captivity. 
 
 " God is gone up with a men-y noise 
 Of saints that sing on high ; 
 With His own right hand and His holy arm 
 He hath won the victory I 
 
 Of recent collections intended for use in public worship, 
 that issued under the auspices of the United Presbyterian 
 Church is certainly sufficiently voluminous. It contains not 
 less than 46S compositions, of very various merit, besides a 
 number of doxologies, and seems to have been compiled on 
 the principle of containing something adapted to every taste 
 — good, bad, and indifferent. Great liberties, in the way of 
 the omission of stanzas and the alteration of expressions, 
 have not unfrequently been taken. A whole stanza, for in- 
 stance, of Heber's well-known missionary hymn has been ex- 
 cluded ; and we might specify a number of other compositions 
 that have been cut down, sometimes to the violation of the 
 purpose intended by the author. Why should not there, how 
 ever, be liberty granted to use in the worship of our Church, 
 such hymns as the following — " Christ the Lord is risen to- 
 day ;" " Come, ye sinners poor and wretched ;" '' Hark, the 
 herald angels sing ;" " How sweet the name of Jesus sounds;'' 
 " Jesus I refuge of my soul ;" " Lo ! He comes with clouds de- 
 scending," though even in this fine composition there are devi- 
 ations from the original and better form ; " Lord, dismiss us 
 with thy blessing;'' " O'er the gloomy hills of darkness ;" with 
 several others which we might specify. 
 
 The points we have adverted to are well deserving of con- 
 sideration. But, though the matter has been so often talked 
 of, as yet nothing has been done ; and we are beginning almost 
 to despair, after the sad experience of our psalmody committee 
 and the poor result of their labours, (yet still not altogether 
 worthy of the treatment met with at the hands of certain 
 learned doctors a few assemblies since,) and the manner 
 in which the affair seems almost to have been set to sleep, — 
 we almost despair of any such practical work being speedily 
 
 a 
 
50 
 
 done, or done to purpose, unless the public voice shall in- 
 sist upon it. We long that in our church, adherence to 
 conventional practice were less pertinaciously insisted upon. 
 We want her to read the " signs of the times." We should 
 like to see her more free, generous, and expansive, with ser- 
 vices for the intellectual and polished, as well as for the poorest 
 ofthe poor. Why should we not, as far as we can, gratify the 
 earnest longings of many, instead of moving round in the 
 same unvaried course ? Is that portion of our devotional 
 service, — the only part in which our people audibly join — 
 never to be suitably enlarged from the vast body of materials 
 available for this purpose ? Alas ! too much of our commit- 
 tee work is little else than talk, issuing often in a most weari- 
 some and profitless expenditure of time. Would that learn- 
 ing were more largely cultivated amongst us, and that we 
 made it an endeavour to fan the flame of devotion among our 
 people, providing for that purpose suitable and wholesome 
 aliment ! Would that a spirit of wisdom might be vouch- 
 safed, if it is not going too far to hope so — even to the pre- 
 scriptive leaders in our church courts, and more especially to 
 the select gentlemen, clerical and lay, who are drawn as by 
 magnetic influence, round the Clerk's Table of the General 
 Assembly ! 
 
 As belonging to a church untramelled, or, as others might 
 style it, unadorned by the possession of dignities and prizes, 
 the writer of these remarks cannot but express the satis- 
 faction which, in common with many thousands of his coun- 
 trymen, he feels at the conduct of our most gracious Sove- 
 reign, during the period of her annual sojourn at Balmoral. 
 There Queen Victoria drops, as far as may be, the cares and 
 pomp of state ; showing, with her illustrious consort, so 
 deservedly had in respect on account of his talents and vir- 
 tues, that understanding of the spirit of the constitution, and 
 that appreciation of the rights and privileges of the Church 
 of Scotland, which leads her to overleap the mere conven- 
 tionalities of outward practice, and humbly and reverently, 
 as becomes a subject of the King of kings, to worship in the 
 parish church of Crathie. May it not be looked upon as a 
 si^n in reference to the matter we have treated of, that the 
 
51 
 
 preacher who has, for the second time, been honoured by a 
 royal command to print the sermon which he delivered before 
 our most gracious Sovereign, is alleged to have made, in the 
 introductory part of the service, free and ample use of the 
 liturgy of the Church of England, — we presume, of that por- 
 tion of it which is derived from ancient sources, and reflects 
 the feelings as, in another tongue, it embodies the sentiments 
 of the church catholic in bygone ages ; whatever is best in 
 that liturgy being a matter of inheritance. Not less might 
 it gratify her Majesty's Scottish subjects, were the ancient 
 and storied chapel at Holyrood repaired, — once more to echo 
 the lowly accents of prayer, and resound to the heart of 
 praise, instead of its being allowed to moulder away under 
 the dilapidating influence of time and exposure, more particu- 
 larly as it is in close proximity to a densely-peopled locality, 
 and might well be restored to its former use, as the church 
 of the parishioners of the Canongate, from whom it was taken 
 at a very inauspicious period of our national history. 
 
53 
 
 TO 
 
 THE REV. DR CRAWFORD OF EDINBURGH, 
 
 CONVENER OF .THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY'S COMMITTEE 
 ON "AIDS TO DEVOTION." 
 
 Edinburgh, 20th April 1857. 
 
 Reverend Sir, 
 
 I have to apologise for the liberty I take in 
 addressing you in your official character as Convener of the 
 Committee appointed by the last General Assembly for the 
 purpose of considering the best method of supplying a desi- 
 deratum long felt in the Church — viz., a proper Manual of 
 Devotion. The importance of this subject has for some time 
 forcibly pressed itself on my mind ; and having given it 
 much consideration, I now venture to address you in regard 
 to it, in the hope that, whether my suggestions are in any 
 way acted upon or not, the knowledge that others in the 
 Church of Scotland are anxiously waiting for some move- 
 ment on the part of the Committee, may induce some active 
 steps to be taken to carry out the object for which the Com- 
 mittee was appointed. 
 
 It may be considered quite superfluous to say anything in 
 support of the Manual now proposed, the need of it being so 
 self-evident, and the want of it having been so long and so 
 generally experienced ; yet a few words in favour of it may 
 not be altogether out of place. 
 
 No one can read the details from the Colonies in our Mis- 
 sionary Record, without lamenting the destitute condition of 
 our brethren in respect to the privileges and enjoyment of 
 Gospel ordinances. In many churches in our North Ameri- 
 can colonies, there have been no services for a series of years, 
 from the want of ministers. In these trying circumstances, 
 the people have earnestly and repeatedly appealed to the 
 General Assembly to supply this want, and have at the same 
 time petitioned to be provided with a Book of Devotion, as 
 a great help in the absence of the public Services of the 
 
54 
 
 Church. It is gratifying to know that these appeals are now 
 meeting with attention ; several missionaries having been 
 lately sent out, through the indefatigable exertions of Dr 
 Fowler, and the other members of the Colonial Committee. 
 The Committee which has been long in existence for the 
 preparation of a suitable Manual of Devotion, and of which 
 you are now the Convener, will meet with much encourage- 
 ment from the Synod of Aberdeen, who, on the subject be- 
 ino- lately brought before them, unanimously agreed to over- 
 ture the General Assembly, " to prosecute with all diligence 
 and earnestness this interesting and very important work." 
 
 Our late experience in the Crimean campaign, particularly 
 in the early part of it, serves to prove, in a painful manner, 
 how destitute our gallant and pious soldiers and sailors were 
 in this respect. A letter from one of them shows how deeply 
 it was felt. He writes in March 1855 : " Since I landed in 
 Turkey, I have not heard the Word of God preached, with 
 the exception of hearing the Church of England prayers read 
 twice. How many of Scotland's sons have gone down to 
 the narrow grave, and no minister to read a verse, or utter a 
 word of prayer 1" Had we possessed such a manual as this 
 proposed, as a household book, would it not have prevented, 
 in a great measure, this ground of complaint ? 
 
 At home, the want of such a work must in many localities 
 be no less a matter of regret, especially in pastoral and high- 
 land districts, where the churches are far separated, — some 
 parishes being forty miles by thirty, and even sixty by thirty 
 in extent, thus rendering it impossible to attend church dur- 
 ing the winter season, or even to receive the visit of a mi- 
 nister. In our lowland districts, and in our large towns, it 
 would not be without its use. Families and individuals, 
 prevented from attending church, would find it a great com- 
 fort. In many of our large institutions, such as infirmaries 
 and factories, it would confer a great benefit, and would 
 prove a material help to missionaries and Scripture readers, 
 supplying their absence in many cases. 
 
 All classes of our people, from the want of such a volume, 
 have no alternative but to make use of the English Prayer- 
 Book ; and although there is no doubt that, from getting 
 
55 
 
 accustomed to its use, many, particularly the young, are led 
 to join the Episcopal Church, still we may be thankful that 
 there is such a book to have recourse to. — " A book in which 
 the prayers and thanksgivings of" millions in either hemi- 
 sphere, as well as the worship of a thousand floating sanctua- 
 ries on the seas between, find language every Sabbath day.'' 
 Is it not to be desired that the same beautiful reflection 
 should be equally applicable to our own Church ? 
 
 Whilst such a work would be of great use in affording the 
 means of public worship, as w^ell as of promoting private de- 
 votion, it would also be a convenient medium for keeping 
 correct views of the doctrines and forms of the Church before 
 the people, particularly on Baptism and the Lord's Supper. 
 This is certainly very necessary in these times, when Ro- 
 manism and Puseyism are making such strides. The idea 
 of Baptism with many, is very low and erroneous, being often 
 looked upon as little more than giving the child a name. 
 Clear and intelligent views of the Sacrament of the Lord's 
 Supper are certainly of great importance. There are also 
 very unscriptural views on the reading of the Bible as an es- 
 sential part of the Public Service of the Church, many con- 
 sidering the reading of the Scriptures in a great measure 
 superfluous ; — therefore, such expressions regarding this es- 
 sential part of the service, as these, " the reading of the Bible 
 is a mere waste of time ; we can read our Bibles at home," 
 are by no means uncommon. Such expressions are certainly 
 to be deplored, as they not only convey a very mistaken idea 
 of public worship, but strike at the root of it altogether. For, 
 may it not be said with equal justice, there is no need of a 
 sermon, there is no need of praise, there is no need of prayer, 
 we can do all at home ? If we attach so little importance to 
 what God speaks to us in His Word, how can we expect 
 that He should listen to us when we present our petitions 
 to Him ■? 
 
 " In hearing of the Word, men usually look too much upon 
 men, and forget from what spring the Word hath its power ; 
 they observe too narrowly the different hand of the sowers, 
 and too little depend on His hand, who is Lord of both seed- 
 time and harvest." 
 
56 
 
 This very important part of the service had fallen so much 
 into disuse, although a considerable portion of the Scriptures 
 is enjoined by the Directory to be read regularly and syste- 
 matically, and without note or comment, at each diet, that 
 the last General Assembly found it necessary to issue a re- 
 commendation to ministers to attend to this injunction of 
 the Directory. The reading of a considerable portion of the 
 Scriptures in a regular and systematic way, enters into the 
 service of all the Churches of the Reformation, and seems 
 only to have fallen into comparative disuse in our Church, 
 and those springing out of it. "When so little value is 
 attached to the reading of the Scriptures in public, is it not 
 to be feared that it may lead to the neglect of the duty in 
 private ? 
 
 I cannot omit mentioning the importance set upon this 
 essential part of the service by a late pious lady, who says, 
 that it was almost as necessary for a minister to be as good 
 a reader as a preacher. Whilst the Assembly have found it 
 necessary to rectify this grievous neglect, the people have 
 commenced the improvement of another essential part of the 
 service, the importance of which had been very much lost 
 sight of — viz., the Psalmody. Now that Music is so uni- 
 versally cultivated, why should not the highest department 
 of it. Sacred Music, receive its due share of attention ? Our 
 Pagan forefathers were prepared by its influence for the re- 
 ception of the truth ; and an old divine says, " Music hath 
 power to express and represent to the mind, more inwardly 
 than any other sensible means, the turns and varieties of all 
 passions ; it filleth the mind with comfort and heavenly de- 
 light, and stirreth up desires and affections corresponding 
 to the holy words uttered. It is a thing whereunto God's 
 people of old did resort, that thereby especially their souls 
 might be edified." 
 
 I have ventured to mention in the Syllabus annexed, that 
 the prayers should be short, simple, and well arranged, ac- 
 cording to the natural order of prayer, as, by being so, they 
 would not be fatiguing, could be more easily followed, and 
 so more likely to be edifying. As bearing upon this point, 
 I was glad to see the remarks of the Rev. Dr Crombie, at a 
 
57 
 
 late meeting of the Presbytery of Perth, when, on the atten- 
 tion of the Presbytery being called to the Act of the last 
 General Assembly on the Public Reading of the Scriptures, 
 by the Rev. Mr Cummini!;, and which Act received the sup- 
 port of the Presbytery, the Rev. Doctor says : — " He could 
 not help observing that their prayers should not extend be- 
 yond ten minutes ; the bodies and minds of the people were 
 often worn out before they were concluded." Similar re- 
 marks might, in my opinion, be extended to the length of 
 sermons in general, which are often so long as to defeat, by 
 the weariness they induce, the object in view. 
 
 In a Service where all the parts are essential, it is surely 
 of importance that they should be fairly balanced, and that 
 each should have its due share of attention. 
 
 In making the above remarks, I need scarcely say that I 
 have been actuated solely with the view of promoting the 
 usefulness of our Church, by providing for the wants of her 
 people. The volume proposed, by becoming a household 
 book, would prevent the continual desertion of her children, 
 by strengthening their affections towards her, — whilst it 
 would carry comfort to the hearts, and relieve the longings 
 of many of her sons in distant lauds, far removed from her 
 ministrations. 
 
 In presuming to make a suggestion as to what the Manual 
 of Devotion should contain, I do so with the greatest defer- 
 ence to the reverend fathers and members of our Church, so 
 much better fitted than I am to prepare this Manual ; but I 
 have considered what might have been my own wants, if 
 placed in the position of those for whom the Manual is in- 
 tended, and arranged its contents accordingly. I state my 
 own views, however, more in hopes that they may call forth 
 abler opinions from others, than with any expectation that 
 mine will be to any considerable extent adopted. 
 I am, 
 
 Reverend Sib, 
 
 Your most obedient Servant, 
 
 JOHN SMITH. 
 Edinburgh, 20 Charlotte Square. 
 
58 
 SYLLABUS 
 
 OF 
 
 A MANUAL OF DEVOTION 
 
 PREPARED FOR 
 
 THE USE OF MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND. 
 
 I.— The Order of Public Worship. 
 
 11. — Various Short, Simple, and Well-arranged Prayers for 
 the Public Service. 
 III. — Prayers adapted to Times of Humiliation ; as, during the 
 late war ; pestilence, and other times of trial and 
 danger. 
 IV. — Thanksgivings. 
 
 V. — The Order of Baptism, with an explanation of the 
 Doctrine. 
 VI. — The Order and Administration of the Lord's Supper, with 
 
 an Explanation of the Doctrine. 
 VII. — Prayers and Meditations adapted to the Season of Com- 
 munion. 
 VIII. — The Visitation of the Sick, with Services for the various 
 stages of sickness, containing Prayers, suitable Psalms, 
 and other portions of Scripture, to be read to or by 
 the sick. 
 IX. — Various forms of Prayer for relatives and friends, with 
 portions of Scripture suitable to the time of death 
 and burial. 
 X. — The Ordination of Ministers and Elders. 
 XI. — The Order of Marriage. 
 XII.— The Thirty -three Articles of the Confession of Faith. 
 XIII. — Shorter Catechism, Lord's Prayer, and Creed. 
 XIV. — Psalms, Paraphrases, and Hymns. 
 XV. — Short Morning and Evening Prayers, for a fortnight, 
 made to suit Families or Individuals. 
 XVI. — Short Prayers for particular trials and occasions. 
 XVII. — One or two forms of Grace before and after meat. 
 XVIII. — Prayer before and after Public Worship. 
 XIX. — A Table of Select Portions of Scripture, for Daily Reading. 
 XX. — Reasons for the faith that is in us. 
 XXI. — What Presbyterianism is ; with a short account of the 
 early history of our Church. This might be contained 
 in the Preface. 
 
 COLSTON AND SON, PBIMEBS, 80 HOSE STBEET, EDINBCBGH. 
 
PART II 
 
 Few words are required, previously to bringing before those 
 of the pubHc who are interested in tliis important topic, 
 " The Directory for the Public Worship of God, agreed upon 
 by the Assembly of Divines at Westminster, with the assist- 
 ance of Commissioners from the Church of Scotland, as a part 
 of the Covenanted Uniformity in Eehgion betwixt the Chmches 
 of Christ in the Kingdoms of Scotland, England, and Ire- 
 land."' 
 
 Xo historical account is here needed of the famous Assembly 
 that met in Henry VII. 's Chapel witliin "Westminster Abbey. 
 The political atmosphere had been in a state of commotion ; 
 and the contest for emancipation from what was viewed as 
 religious thraldom, was going on. The mind of England 
 was stirred. Not merely, however, was political freedom de- 
 manded, — not only must despotism be resisted, but what was 
 accounted to be a piurer and more Scriptiural mode of worship 
 be adopted. Then had the spectacle been presented of a 
 nation joining in " solemn league and covenant" with the 
 Lord of Hosts. Religious questions were, at that period, the 
 most stirring questions. Not a few who espoused the Parlia- 
 mentary cause, were not only lovers of freedom, but lovers 
 also of God. They realised His presence and sought His 
 favour ; and when, after fulfiling their mission, the men of 
 that time were no more foimd, — when the nation rushed 
 afterwards from what was called "' Piu"itanism'' into excess of 
 riot and vice ; when, for CromweU's sway, there was substitu- 
 ted the impure abandonment of the reign of Charles II. ; at 
 
the time when Milton was well nigh proscribed, and Richard 
 Baxter silenced, it might be truly said that the people had gone 
 from one extreme to the other. We must not, however, judge 
 of the Puritans and Commonwealth men by the caricatures 
 of adversaries. They were beings noble of heart, if stern of 
 purpose. They might quote from the Old Testament rather 
 than from the New. But that the love of Christ was burning 
 in many of their hearts, admits not of dispute. Saintly men 
 there were, indeed, who sympathised not with them. We 
 cannot but think of Sanderson, the wise and good ; of Jeremy 
 Taylor, the Chrysostom of English preachers ; and of many 
 others, without being reminded of the fact that the followers 
 of Jesus have diversities of outward garb. But that the 
 stronger pulse of inward piety beat in the hearts of those to 
 whom even individuals, such as we have specified, were 
 ranged upon tlie opposite side, will now be acknowledged 
 even by secular historians. They took umbrage at the Enghsh 
 Liturgy. There were in it particulars which wounded their 
 souls and vexed their consciences. Some rags of Romish super- 
 stition they conceived still to be lingering under the vesture of 
 the officiating minister. They disapproved of candles on the 
 communion table, of bowing at the name of Jesus, and of 
 other practices to which Laud and liis adherents gave their 
 countenance. 
 
 They disapproved of the Liturgy, but they did not there- 
 fore conceive that no guide was necessary for the conducting 
 of the public devotions of the sanctuary. They complained 
 of the Liturgy of the Church of England, that " Papists" 
 boasted of the book as " a compliance with them, in a great 
 part, of their service, and so were not a little confirmed in their 
 superstition and idolatry," — a charge to which, except in cer- 
 tain parts, the Common Prayer Book of the Church of England 
 cannot be considered as obnoxious. They also assigned, in the 
 preface to the Directory, a second reason, viz. that the Liturgy 
 had been " a great means" of increasing an " idle and un- 
 edifying ministry," contenting itself with " set forms made to 
 their hands by others, without putting forth themselves to 
 
3 
 
 exercise the gift of prayer, with which oiir Lord Jesus Christ 
 pleaseth to fiiruish all His servants whom He calls to that 
 service ;" as also, " a matter of eutUess strife and contention 
 in the Chm-ch, and a snare to many godly and faithful mini- 
 sters who have been persecuted and silenced on that occasion," 
 &c. 
 
 While thus, however, renouncing the Ohmch of England 
 Liturgy, the Westminster Assembly, — to whose laboms we 
 own the Catechisms, Longer and Shorter, the best text-book 
 of theology we yet possess — every clause and sentence of 
 which was thoroughly debated and maturely considered, — 
 thought it right to issue the dociunents which follow these 
 remarks, in accordance with " an order received from both 
 Houses of Parliament,"' desuing them to tiu-n their attention 
 to the important topics of discipline, and of a " Directory of 
 Worship and Grovernment." This resolution of the two 
 Houses was commimicated to the Assembly on 12th October 
 1643 ; and that it was meant to be an authoritative docu- 
 ment, — and intended to be the model of pubhc devotion, 
 is evident from the terms used in reference to it : '" the 
 Directory of Worship, or Liturgy, hereafter to be 
 USED IN THE Church." We need only add that by an Act 
 of the General Assembly, held in Edinbm-gh in 1645, this 
 Directory was approved of It was ratified, in the Siime 
 year, by Act of Parliament. 
 
 " Assembly at Kdinbubgh. Fcbruar)' 3. 16ib. Sess. 10. 
 
 " act of tt)f (Scnrral .assrmblg of tfie Uivi. of ^rotlaulT. for t^e cstailis^ing 
 ants putting in lExrrutioa of t^c Dirfrtorj for t^e ^ubluft JEiEors^tp of 
 (Sots. 
 
 " Whebsas an happy unity, and unif^jrmity in religion amongst the kirks of Christ, 
 in these three kingdoms, united under one Sovereign, having been long and ear- 
 nestly wished for by the godly and well -affected amongst us, was propounded as a 
 main article of the large treaty, without which band and bulwiirk, no safe, well- 
 grounded, and lasting peace could be expected ; and afterward, with greater strengLli 
 and maturity, revived in the Solemn League and Covenant of the three kingdoms ; 
 whereby they stand straightly obliged to endeavour the nearest uniformity in one 
 form of Church-government, Directory of Worship, Confession of Faith, and Form 
 of Catechising ; which hath also before, and siuce our entering iuto that Covenant, 
 been the matter of miu.y supplications and remonstrances, and sending Commis- 
 
sioners to the King's Majesty ; of declarations to the Honourable Houses of the 
 Parliament of England, and of letters to the Reverend Assembly of Divines, and 
 others of the ministry of the kirk of England ; being also the end of our sending 
 Commissioners, as was desired, from this kirk, with commission to treat of unifor- 
 mity in the four particulars afore-mentioned, with such committees as should be ap- 
 pointed by both Houses of Parliament of England, and by the Assembly of Divines 
 sitting at Westminster ; and beside all this, it being, in point of conscience, the 
 chief motive and end of our adventuring upon manifold and great hazards, for 
 quenching the devouring flame of the present unnatural and bloody war in England, 
 though to the weakening of this kingdom within itself, and the advantage of the 
 enemy which have invaded it ; accounting nothing too dear to us, so that this our 
 joy be fulfilled. And now this great work being so far advanced, that a Direc- 
 tory for the Publick Worship of God in all the three kingdoms being agieed upon 
 by the Honourable Houses of the Parliament of England, after consuhation with 
 the Divines of both kingdoms there assembled, and sent to us for our approbation, 
 that, being also agreed upon by this kirk and Kingdom of Scotland, it may be in the 
 name of both kingdoms presented to the King, for his royal consent and ratification ; 
 the General Assembly, having most seriously considered, revised, and examined the 
 Directory afore- mentioned, after several publick readings of it, after much delibera- 
 tion, both publickly and in private committees, after full liberty given to all to object 
 against it, and earnest invitations of all who have any scruples about it, to make 
 known the same, that they might be satisfied ; doth unanimously, and without a con- 
 trary voice, agree to and approve the following Directory, in all the heads thereof, 
 together with the Preface set before it ; and doth require, decern, and ordain, That, 
 according to the plain tenor and meaning thereof, and the iutent of the Preface, it 
 be carefully and uniformly observed and practised by all the ministers and others 
 within this kingdom whom it doth concern; which practice shall be begun, upon 
 intimation given to the several presbyteries from the Commissioners of this General 
 Assembly, who shall also take special care for tiraeous printing of this Directory, 
 that a printed copy of it be provided and kept for the use of every kirk in this king- 
 dom ; also that each presbytery have a printed copy thereof for their use, and take 
 special notice of the observation or neglect thereof in every congregation within 
 their bounds, and make known the same to the Provincial or General Assembly, as 
 there shall be cause. Provided always. That the clause in the Directory, of the ad- 
 ministration of the Lord's Supper, which mentioneth the communicants sitting about 
 the table, or at it, be not interpreted, as if, in the judgment of this kirk, it were in- 
 diflfereut, and free for any of the communicants not to come to, and receive at the 
 table ; or as if we did approve the distributing of the elements by the minister to 
 each communicant, and not by the communicants among themselves. It is also pro- 
 vided, That this shall be no prejudice to the order and practice of this kirk, in such 
 particulars as are appointed by the books of discipline, and acts of General Assem- 
 blies, and are not otherwise ordered and appointed in the Directory. 
 
 Finally, The Assembly doth, with much joy and thankfulness, acknowledge the 
 rich blessing and invaluable mercy of God, in bringing the so much wished-for uni- 
 formity in religion to such a happy period, that these kingdoms, once at so great a 
 distance in the form of worship, are now, by the blessing of God, brought to a nearer 
 uniformity than any other reformed kirks ; which is unto us the return of our pray- 
 
ere, and a ligbteuing of our eyes, and reviving of our beans in the midst of our 
 many sorrows iiud stifferiugs ; a tsikiug away, in a great measure, the reproacb of 
 the people of God, to the stopping of tbe mouths of maliguaat and disaffected per- 
 sons; and an opening uuto us a door of hope, that God Lath yet thoughts of peace 
 towards us, aud not of evil, to give us an expected end ; in the especiatiou and con- 
 fidence whereof we do rejoice ; beseeching the Lord to preserve these kingdoms 
 from heresies, schisms, offences, profaneness, and whatsoever is contrary to sound 
 doctrine, and the power of godliness ; and to continue with us, aud the generations 
 following, these His pure aud purged ordinauces, together with an increase of the 
 power aud life thereof, to tbe glory of His great name, the enlargement of the king- 
 dom of His Sou. the corroboration of peace aud love between the kingdoms, tbe 
 unity and comfort of all His people, aud our edifying one another in love. 
 
 CONTENTS. 
 
 The Preface. 
 
 Of the Assembliug of the Cougre- 
 
 gation. 
 Of Publick Reading of the Holy 
 
 Scriptures. 
 Of Publick Prayer before the 
 
 Sermou. 
 Of Preacbiug of the Word. 
 Of Player alter Sermou. 
 Of the Sacrament of Baptism. 
 Of the Sacrament of the Lord's 
 
 Supper. 
 
 Of the Sanctification of the Loi-d's 
 
 Day. 
 Of the Solemuizatiou of Marriage. 
 Of the Visitation of the Sick. 
 Of the Burial of the Dead. 
 Of Publick solemn Fasting. 
 Of the Observation of Days of 
 
 Publick Tbauksgiviug. 
 Of Singing of Psalms. 
 An Appendix touching Days and 
 
 Places of Publick Woi-ship. 
 
 THE DIRECTORY 
 
 PUBLICK WOESHIP OF GOD. 
 
 THE PREFACE. 
 
 " In tbe beginuiug of the blessed Reformation, our wise and pious ancestors took 
 care to set forth an order for redress of many things, which they then, by the word, 
 discovered to be vaiu, erroneous, superstitious, and idolatrous in the publick worship 
 of God. This occasioned many godly and learned men to rejoice much in the Book 
 of Common Prayer, at that time set forth ; because tbe mass, and the rest of tbe 
 Latin service being removed, the publick worship was celebrated in our own tongue : 
 many of the common people also received benefit by hearing the scriptures read in 
 their own language, which formerly were unto them as a book that is sealed. 
 
Howbeit, long and sad experience hath made it manifest, tbat tbe Liturgy used 
 in the Cburcb of England (notwitbstanding all tbe pains and religious intentions 
 of tbe Compilers of it) bath proved an offence, not only to many of tbe godly at 
 home, but also to tbe Reformed Churches abroad. For, not to speak of urging tbe 
 reading of all the prayers, which very greatly increased the burden of it, the many 
 unprofitable and burdensome ceremonies contained in it have occasioned much 
 mischief, as well by dis(iuieting the consciences of many godly ministers and people 
 who could not yield unto them, as by depriving tliem of the ordinances of God 
 which they might not enjoy without conforming or subscribing to those ceremonies. 
 Sundry good Christians have been, by means thereof, kept from the Lord's table ; 
 and divers able and faithful ministers debarred from the exercise of their ministry 
 (to tbe endangering of many thousand souls, in a time of such scarcity of faithful 
 pastors), and spoiled of their livelihood, to the undoing of them and their families. 
 Prelates, and their faction, have laboured to raise the estimation of it to such a 
 iieight, as if there were no other worship, or way of worship of God, amongst us, 
 but only the ServiceBook ; to the great hindrance of the preaching of the word, 
 and ("in some places, especially of late) to the justling of it out as unnecessary, or 
 at best, as far inferior to the reading of common prayer ; which was made no better 
 than an idol by many ignorant and superstitious people, who, pleasing themselves, 
 in their presence at that service, and their lip-labour in bearing a part in it, have 
 thereby hardened themselves in their ignorance and carelessness of saving know- 
 ledge and true piety. 
 
 In the meantime, Papists boasted that the book was a compliance with them in 
 a great part of their service ; and so were not a little confirmed in their supersti- 
 tion and idolatry, expecting rather our return to them, than endeavouring the refor- 
 mation of themselves : in which expectation they were of late very much encouraged, 
 when, upon the pretended warrantableness of imposing of the former ceremonies, 
 new ones were daily obtruded upon the Church. 
 
 Add hereunto (which was not foreseen, but since hath come to pass), that the 
 Liturgy bath been a great means, as on the one hand to make and increase an idle 
 and unedifying ministry, which coutented itself with set forms made to tlieir hands 
 by others, without putting forth themselves to exercise the gift of prayer, with which 
 our Lord Jesus Christ pleaseth to furnish all his servants whom be calls to thut 
 office : so, on the other side, it hath been (and ever would be, if continued) a mat- 
 ter of endless strife and contention in the Church, and a snare both to many godly 
 and faithful ministers, who have been persecuted and silenced upon that occasion, 
 and to others of hopeful parts, many of which have been, and more still would be, 
 diverted from all thoughts of tbe ministry to other studies; especially in these latter 
 times, wherein God vouchsafeth to his people more and better means for the dis- 
 covery of error and superstition, and for attaining of knowledge in tbe mysteries of 
 godliness, and gifts in preaching and prayer. 
 
 Upon these, and many the like weighty considerations in reference to the whole 
 book in general, and because of divers particulars contained in it ; not from any 
 love to novelty, or intention to disparage our first reformers (of whom we are per- 
 suaded, that, were they now alive, they would join with us in this work, and whom 
 we acknowledge as excellent instruments, raised by God, to begin the purging and 
 building of His bouse, and desire they may be had of us and posterity in everlasting 
 remembrance, with thankfulness and honour), but that we may in some measure 
 
answer the gracious providence ofGod, which at this time calleth upon us for further 
 reformation, and may satisfy our own consciences, and answer the expectation ot 
 other reformed churches, and the desires of many of the godly among ourselves, 
 and withal give some publick testimony of our endeavours for uniformity in divine 
 worship, which we have promised in our Solemn League and Covenant ; we have, 
 after earnest and frequent calling upon the name of God, and after much consulta- 
 tion, not with flesh and blood, but with his holy word, resolved to lay aside the 
 former Liturgy, with the many rites and ceremonies formerly used in the worship 
 of God ; and have agreed upon this following Directory for all the parts of publick 
 worship, at ordinary and extraordinary times. 
 
 Wherein our care hath been to hold forth such things as are of divine 
 institution in every ordinance ; and other things we have endeavoured to set 
 forth according to the rules of Christian prudence, agreeable to the general rules of 
 the word of God ; our meaning therein being only, that the general heads, the 
 sense and scope of the prayers, and other parts of publick worship, being known to 
 all, there may be a consent of all the churches in those things that contain the sub- 
 stance of the service and worship of God ; and the ministers may be hereby di- 
 rected, in their administrations, to keep like soundness in doctrine and prayer, and 
 may, if need be, have some help and furniture, and yet so as they become not here- 
 by slothful and negligent, in stirring up the gifts of Christ in them ; but that each 
 one, by meditation, by taking heed to liimself, and the flock of God committed to 
 him, and by wise observing the ways of divine providence, and may be careful to 
 furnish his heart and tongue with further or other materials of prayer and exhorta- 
 tion, as shall be needful upon all occasions." 
 
 The following directions are given as to the commence- 
 ment of worship, that all things may be done " decently and 
 in order :" — 
 
 4^fifit iaeemliltng of tige CTongrrgatton, antr tfjrtr 13el^abtour in tl^c 
 ^3utltcfc SBorBfitp of ©olr. 
 
 " When the congregation is to meet for publick worship, the people (having pre- 
 pared their hearts thereunto) ought all to come and join therein ; not absenting 
 themselves from the publick ordinances through negligence, or upon pretence of 
 private meetings. 
 
 Let all enter the assembly, not irreverently, but in a grave and seemly manner, 
 taking their seats or places without adoration, or bowing themselves towards one 
 place or other. 
 
 The congregation being assembled, the minister, after solemn calling on them to 
 the worshipping of the great name of God, is to begin with prayer. 
 
 " In all reverence and humility acknowledging the incomprehensible greatness 
 " and majesty of the Lord (in whose presence they do then in a special manner np- 
 " pear), and their own vileness and unworthincss to approach so near Him, with 
 " their utter inability of themselves to so gi-eat a work ; and humbly beseeching 
 " Him for pardon, assistance, and acceptnnce, in the whole service then to be per- 
 
" formed ; and for a blessing on that particular portion of bis word then to be read : 
 " And all in the name and mediation of the Lord Jesus Christ." 
 
 The publick worship being begun, the people are wholly to attend upon it, for- 
 bearing to read any thing, except what the minister is then reading or citing; and 
 abstaining much more from all private whisperings, conferences, salutations, or do- 
 ing reverence to any person present or coming in ; as also from all gazing, sleeping, 
 and other indecent behaviour, which may disturb the minister or people, or hinder 
 themselves or others in the service of God. 
 
 If any, through necessity, be hindered from being present at the beginning, they 
 ought not, when they come into the congregation, to betake themselves to their pri- 
 vate devotions, but reverently to compose themselves to join with the assembly in 
 that ordinance of God which is then in band. 
 
 Ample provision is made for the reading, in due course, of 
 the sacred oracles : — 
 
 m ilublicit Kealring of tfte ?^ol8 Scffpturcs- 
 
 " Reading of the word in the congregation, being part of the publick worship of God 
 (wherein we acknowledge our dependence upon him, and subjection to him), and 
 one mean sanctified by him for the edifying of his people, is to be performed by the 
 pastors and teachers. 
 
 Howbeit, such as intend the ministry, may occasionally both read the word, ami 
 exercise 'their gift in preaching in the congregation, if allowed by the presbytery 
 thereunto. 
 
 All the canonical books of the Old and New Testament (but none of those which 
 are commonly called Apocrypha) shall be publickly read in the vulgar tongue, out 
 of the best allowed translation, distinctly, that all may hear and understand. 
 
 How large a portion shall be read at once, is left to the wisdom of the minister ; 
 but it is convenient, that ordinarily one chapter of each Testament be read at every 
 meeting; and sometimes more, where the chapters be short, or the coherence of 
 matter requireth it. 
 
 It is requisite that all the canonical books be read over in order, that the people 
 may be better acquainted with the whole body of the scriptures ; and ordinarily, 
 where the reading in either Testament endeth on one Lord's day, it is to begin the 
 next. 
 
 We commend also the more frequent reading of such scriptures as he that readeth 
 shall think best for the edification of his hearers, as the book of Psalms, and such 
 like. 
 
 When the minister who readeth shall judge it necessary to expound any part of 
 what is read, let it not be done until the whole chapter or psalm be ended ; and re- 
 gard is always to be had unto the time, that neither preaching, nor other ordinances 
 be straitened, or rendered tedious. Which rule is to be observed in all other pub- 
 lick performances. 
 
 Beside publick reading of the holy scriptures, every person that can read, is to be 
 exhorted to read the scriptures privately (and all others that cannot read, if not dis- 
 abled by age, or otherwise, are likewise to be exhorted to learn to read), and to have 
 a Bible. 
 
9 
 
 The sermou was iuteudeJ to be preceileti bv a second 
 prayer : — 
 
 <S>f ^utltc ^ra^rr before tfir ^rrmon. 
 
 "After reading of the word, (and singing of the psalm), the minister who is to 
 preach, is to endeavour to get his own and his hearers' hearts to be rightly affected 
 with their sins, that they may all mourn in sense thereof before the Lord, and hunger 
 and thirst after the grace of God in Jesus Christ, by proceeding to a more full con 
 fessiou of sin, with shame and holy confusion of face, and to call upon the Lord to 
 this effect : 
 
 " To acknowledge oar great sinfulness, First, by reason of original sin, which 
 
 • (beside the guilt that makes us liable to everlasting damnation) is the seed of all 
 
 • other sins, hath depraved aud poisoned all the faculties and powers of soul and 
 " body, doth dedle our best actions, and (w^ere it not restrained, or our hearts re- 
 '' newed by grace^ would break forth into innumerable transgressions, and greatest 
 " rebellions against the Lord that ever were committed by the vilest of the sotis of 
 " men. And next, by reason of actnal sins, our own sins, the sins of magistrates, 
 " of ministers, and of the whole nation, unto which we are many ways accessory : 
 " which sins of ours receive many fearful aggravations, we having broken all the 
 " commandments of the holy, just, and good law of God, doing that which is for- 
 " bidden, and leaving undone what is enjoined ; and that not only out of ignorance 
 " aud intirmity, but also more presumptuously, against the light of our minds, checks 
 " of our consciences, and motions of his own Holy Spirit to the contrary, so chat we 
 
 • have no cloak for our sins; yea, not only despising the riches of God's goodness. 
 •• forbearance, and long-suffering, but staudiog out against many invitations and of- 
 
 • fers of grace in the gospel; not endeavouring, as we ought, to receive Christ into 
 ■ our hearts by faith, or to walk worthy of him in otur Jives. 
 
 " To bewail our blindness of mind, hardness of heart, unbelief, impenitency, 
 
 • security, lukewarmuess, barrenness ; our not endeavouring after mortilieatiou 
 " and newness of life, nor atter the exercise of godliness in the power thereof: and 
 " that the best of us have not so steadfastly walked with God, kept our garments jo 
 '■ unspotted, nor been so zealous of his glory, aud the good of others, as we ought : 
 
 • aud to mourn over such other sins as the congregation is particularly guilty of, 
 •■ notwithstanding the manifold and great mercies of our God, the love of Chnst, 
 
 ' the light of the gospel, and reformation of religion, our own purposes, promises, 
 
 • vows, solemn covenant, and other special obligations, to the contrary. 
 
 '• To acknowledge and confess, that, as we are convinced of our guilt, so, out of 
 ■ a deep sense thereof, we judge ourselves unworthy of the smtillest benetits, most 
 •• worthy of God's fiercest wrath, and of all the curses of the law, and heaviest 
 '• judgments inflicted upon the most rebellious sinners ; and that he might most 
 
 • justly take his kingdom and gospel from us, plague us with all sorts of spiritual 
 ° and temporal judgments in this life, aud after cast us into utter darkness, iu the 
 
 " lake that burueth with fire and brimstone, where is weeping and gna&hiug of 
 teeth for evermore. 
 
 •' Notwithstaiidiug all which, to draw near to the throne of gr«ce, encourtgiug 
 ourselves with hope of a gracious answer of our prayers, iu the riches aud all 
 
 • sufficiency of that only one oblation, the satisfaction and intercession of the Lord 
 
 • Jesus Christ, at the right hand of his Father and our Father; and iu confidence 
 
 B 
 
10 
 
 of the exceeding great aud precious promises of mercy and grace in vLe new 
 coTenaut, throogU tbe same Mediator thereof, to deprecate the heavy vrath and 
 curse of God, which we are not able to avoid, or bear ; aud humbly and earnestly 
 to suppUcate for mercy, in the free and full remission of all our sins, and that 
 only for the bitter sufferings and precioDS merits of that our ouly Saviour Jesus 
 Christ. 
 
 " That tbe Lord would vouchsafe to shed abroad His love iu our hearts by the 
 Holy Ghost; seal unto us, by the same Si'irit of adoption, the full assurance of 
 our pardon aud reconciliation; comfort all tijat monru in Zion, speak peace to the 
 wounded and troubled spirit, aud biud up the brokeu-hearted ; and as for secure 
 aud presumptuous siuners, that he would open their eyes, convince their con- 
 sciences, and turn them from darkness unto ligbt, and from the power of Satan 
 unto God, that they also may receive forgiveness of sin, and an inheritance among 
 them that are sanctified by faiih in Christ Jesus. 
 " With remission of sins through the blood of Christ, to pray for sanctificatiou 
 
 ■ by his Spirit ; the mortification of sin dwelling in and many times tyrannizing 
 
 ■ over us ; the quickening of our dead spirits with the life of God iu Christ ; grace 
 to fit and enable us for all duties of couversatiou and callings towards God and 
 
 ' men ; strength against temptations ; the sanciified use of blessings and crosses ; 
 ' and perseverance in faith and obedience unto the end. 
 
 " To pray for the propagation of the gospel and kingdom of Christ to all nations; 
 ' for the conversion of the Jews, the fulness of the Gentiles, the fall of Antichrist, 
 ' and the hastening of the second coming of our Lord ; for the deliverance of the 
 ' distressed churches abroad from the tyranny of the antichrisuan faction, and 
 ' from the cruel oppressions and blasphemies of the Turk ; for the blessing of God 
 ' upon the reformed churches, especially upon the churches and kingdoms of 
 ' Scotland, England, and Ireland, now more strictly and religiously united in the 
 ' Solemn National League and Covenant; and for our plantations iu the remote 
 ' parts of the world : more particulaily for that church and kingdom whereof we 
 
 ■ are members, that therein Gcd would establii^u peace and truth, the purity of all 
 ' Lis orditiances, aud the jKJwer of godliness ; prevent and remove heresy, schism, 
 ' profaneness, superstition, security, and unfruitfulness under the me.ins of grace ; 
 ' heal all our rents and divisions, and preserve us from tre;.ch of our Solemn 
 ' Covenant. 
 
 " To pray for all in authority, especially for the King's Majesty ; that God 
 ' would make him rich in blessings, both in his person and government ; establish 
 ' his throne iu religion and lighieousijess, save him from evil counsel, and make 
 ' him a blessed and glorious instrument for the conservation and propagation of the 
 ' gospel, for tbe encouragement and protection of them that do well, the terror of 
 ' all that do enl, and the great good of tbe whole church, and of all his kingdoms ; 
 ' for the conversion of the Queen, the religious education of the Prince, and the 
 ' rest of the royal seed ; for the comfoning the ifBicied Queen of Bohemia, sister 
 ' to our sovereign ; and for the restitution and establishment of the illustrious 
 
 ■ Prince Charles, Elector Palatine of the Ehine, to all his dominions and dignities ; 
 
 ■ for a blessing upon the High Court of Parliament (when sitting in any of these 
 • kingdoms respectively), the nobility, the subordinate judges and magistrates, tbe 
 ' gentry, and all the commonality ; for all pastors and teachers, that God would fill 
 '• them with his Spirit, make them exemplarily holy, sober, just, peaceable, ai;d 
 
11 
 
 gracious in iheir lires ; sonad, faithful, and powerful in their ministry ; and fol- 
 low all their labours with abundance of success and blessing ; and give unto all 
 bis people pastors according to his own bean ; for the universities, and all schools 
 and religious seminaries of church and commonwealth, that they may flourish 
 
 ■ more and more in learning and piety ; for the particular city or congregation, 
 
 • that God would pour out a blessing upon the ministry of the word, sacraments, 
 '• and discipline, upon the civil government, and all the several families and persons 
 " therein ; for mercy to the afflicted under any inward or outward distress ; for 
 '• seasonable weatlier. and fruitful seasons, as the time may require ; for averting the 
 
 •judgments that we either feel or fear, or are liable unto, as famine, pestilence, the 
 
 • sword, and such like. 
 
 •' Aud, with confidence of his mercy to his whole church, and the acceptance of 
 
 ■ our persons, through the merits and mediation of our High Priest, the Lord Jesus, 
 " to profess that it is the desire of our souls to have fellowship with God in the 
 " reverend and conscionable use of his holy ordinances ; and, to that purpose, to 
 " pray earnestly for his grace and effectual assistance to the sanctificaiion of his holy 
 
 • sabbath, the Lords day, in all the duties thereof, pnblick and private, both to our- 
 
 ■ selves, and to all other congregations of his people, according to the riches and ex- 
 
 • cellency of the gospel, this day celebrated and enjoyed. 
 
 '• .\nd because we have been unprofitable hearers in times past, and now cannot 
 '• of ourselves receive, as we should, the deep things of God, the mysteries of Jesus 
 '• Christ, which require a spiritual discerning ; to pray, that the Lord, who teacheth 
 " to profit, would graciously please to pour out the Spirit of grace, together with 
 ■ the outward means thereof, causing us to attain such a measure of the excellency 
 
 • of the knowledge of Christ Jesus our Lord, and, in him, of the things which belong 
 
 • to our peace, that we may account all thiu^ bur as dross in comparison of him ; 
 
 ■ and that we, tasting the first-fruits of the glory that is to be revealed, may long 
 
 ■ for a more full and perfect communion with him, that where he is, we may be 
 
 ■ also, and enjoy the fulness of those joys and pleasures which are at his right hand 
 
 • for evermore. 
 
 " More particularly, that God would in a special manner furnish his servant (now 
 ' called to dispense the bread of life unto his household) with wisdom, fidelity, zeal. 
 
 • and utterance, that he may divide the word of God aright, to every one his portion, 
 
 • in evidence and demonstration of the Spirit and power ; and that the Lord would 
 
 • circumcise the ears and hearts of the hearers, to hear, love, and receive with meek- 
 
 • uess the ingrafted word, which is able to save their souls; make them as good 
 
 • ground to receive in the good seed of the word, and strengthen them against the 
 
 ■ temptations of Satan, the cares of the world, the hardness of their own hearts, and 
 
 • whatsoever else may hinder their profitable and saving hearing ; that so Christ 
 
 • may be so formed in them, and live in them, that all their thoughts may be brought 
 
 • into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and their hearts established in every 
 
 • good word and work for ever." 
 
 We judge this to be a convenient order, in the ordinary pubUck prayer ; yet so, as 
 the minister may defer (as in prudence he shall think meet) some part of these pe- 
 titions till after his sermon, or offer up to God some of the thanksgivings hereafter 
 appointed, in his prayer before his sermon. 
 
12 
 
 The directions given as to preaching are weighty and in- 
 structive : — 
 
 d^f tge Preaching of t^e SlSaorD. 
 
 Pbeachiko of the Word, being the power of God unto salvation, and one of the 
 greatest and most excullent works belonging to the ministry of the gospel, should 
 be so performed, that the workman need not be ashamed, but may save himself, and 
 those that Lear him. 
 
 It is presupposed ("according to the rules for ordination) that the minister of 
 Christ is in some good measure gifted for so weighty a service, by his skill in the 
 original languages, and in such arts and sciences as are handmaid unto divinity ; by 
 liis knowledge in the whole body of theology, but most of all in the holy scriptures 
 having his senses and heart exercised in them above the common sort of believers ; 
 and by the illumination of God's Spirit, and other gifts of edification, which (to- 
 gether with reading and studying of the word^ Le ought still to seek by prayer, and 
 an humble heart, resolving to admit and receive any truth not yet attained, when- 
 ever God shall make it known unto him. All which he is to make use of, and im- 
 prove, in his private preparations, before he deliver in publick what he hath pro- 
 vided. 
 
 Ordinarily, the subject of his sermon is to be some text of scripture, holding forth 
 some principle or head of religion, or suitable to some special occasion emergent ; 
 or he may go on in some chapter, psalm, or book of the holy scripture, as he shall 
 see fit. 
 
 Let the introduction to his text be brief and perspicuous, drawn from the text 
 itself, or context, or some parallel place, or general sentence of scripture. 
 
 If the text be long (as in histories or parables it sometimes must be), let him 
 give a brief sum of it; if short, a paraphrase thereof, if need be : in both, looking 
 diligently to the scope of the text, and pointing at the chief heads and grounds of 
 doctrine which he is to raise from it. 
 
 In analysing and dividing his text, be is to regard more the order of matter than 
 of words ; and neither to burden the memory of the hearers iu the beginning with 
 too many members of division, nor to trouble their minds with obscure terms of arr. 
 
 In raising doctrines from the text, his care ought to be, First, That the matter be 
 the truth of God. Secondly, That it be a truth contained in or grounded on that 
 text, that the hearers may discern how God teacheth it from thence. Thirdly, That 
 he chiefly insist upon those doctrines which are principally intended, and make most 
 for the edification of the hearers. 
 
 The doctrine is to be expressed in plain terms ; or, if any thing in it need explica- 
 tion, it is to be opened, and the consequence also from the text cleared. The 
 parallel places of scripture, confirming the doctrine, are rather to be plain and per- 
 tinent, than many, and (if need be) somewhat insisted upon, and applied to the 
 purpose in hand. 
 
 The arguments or reasons are to be solid, and, as much as may be, convincing. 
 The illustrations, of what kind soever, ought to be full of light, and such as may 
 convey the truth into the hearer's heart with spiritual delight. 
 
 If any doubt obvious from scripture, reason, or prejudice of the hearers, seem to 
 arise, it is very requisite to remove it, by reconciling the seeming differences, an- 
 swering the reasons, and discovering and taking away the causes of prejudice and 
 
13 
 
 mistake. Otherwise it is not fit to detaiu the lieareis with piopouiidiug or answer- 
 ing vain or wicked cavils, which, as they are endless, so the propounding and 
 answering of them doth more hinder than promote ediflcation. 
 
 He is not to rest in general doctrine, althoiigU never so much cleared and con- 
 firmed, but to bring it home to special use, by application to his hearers : which 
 albeit it prove a work of great difficulty to himself, requiring much prudence, zeal, 
 and meditation, and to the natural and corrupt man will be very unpleasant ; yet he 
 is to endeavour to perform it in such a manner, that bis auditors may feel the word 
 of God to be quick and powerful, and a deceruer of the thoughts and intents of the 
 heart ; and tliat if any unbeliever or ignorant person be present, he may have the 
 secrets of his heart made manifest, and give glory to God. 
 
 In the use of iusti-uction or information in the knowledge of some truth, which is 
 a consequence from his doctrine, he may (when convenient) confirm it by a few 
 firm arguments from the text in hand, and other places of scripture, or from the 
 nature of that common place iu divinity, whereof that truth is a branch. 
 
 In confutation of false doctrines, he is neither to raise an old heresy from the 
 grave, nor to mention a blasphemous opinion unnecessarily : but, if the people be 
 in danger of an error, he is to confute it soundly, and endeavour to satisfy llieir 
 judgments and consciences against all objections. 
 
 In exhorting to duties, he is, as he seeth cause, to teach also the means that help 
 to the performance of them. 
 
 In dehortation, reprehension, and publick admonition (which require special 
 wisdom), let him, as there shall be cause, not only discover the nature and greatness 
 of the sin, with the misery attending it, but also show the danger his hearers are in 
 to be overtaken and surprised by it, together with the remedies and best way to 
 avoid it. 
 
 In applying comfort, whether general against all temptations, or particular against 
 some special troubles or terrors, he is carefully to answer such objections as a 
 troubled heart and afflicted spirit may suggest to the contrary. 
 
 It is also sometimes requisite to give some notes of trial (which is very profit- 
 able, especially when performed by able and experienced ministers, with circumspec- 
 tion and prudence, and the signs clearly grounded on the holy scripture), whereby 
 the hearers may be able to examine themselves whether they have attained those 
 graces, and performed those duties, to which be exhorteth, or be guilty of the sin 
 reprehended, and in danger of the judgments threatened, or are such to whom the 
 consolations propounded do belong ; that accordingly they may be quickened and 
 excited to duty, humbled for their wants and sins, affected with their danger, and 
 strengthened with comfort, as their condition, upon examination, shall require. 
 
 And, as he needeth not always to prosecute every doctrine which lies in his text, 
 so is he wisely to make choice of such uses, as, by his residence and conversing 
 with his flock, he fiudeih most needful and seasonable ; and, amongst these, such 
 as may most draw their souls to Christ, the fountain of light, holiness, and comfort. 
 
 This method is not prescribed as necessary for every man, or upon every text ; 
 but only recommended, as being found by experience to be very much blessed of 
 God, and very helpful for the people's understandings and memories. 
 Buttlie servant of Christ, whatever his method be, is toperform his wholemiuistry : — 
 
 1. Painfully, not doing the work of the Lord negligently. 
 
 2. Plainly, that the meanest may understand ; delivering the truth not iu the en- 
 
14 
 
 ticiiig words of mau's wisdom, but in demonstration of tLe Spirit and of power, lest 
 the cross of Christ should be made of none effect ; abstaining also from an unpro- 
 fitable use of unknown tongues, strange phrases, and cadences of sounds and words; 
 sparingly citing sentences of ecclesiastical or other human writers, ancient or modern, 
 be they never so elegant. 
 
 3. Faithfully, looking at the honour of Christ, the conversion, edification, and 
 salvation of the people, not at his own gain or glory ; keeping nothing back which 
 may promote those holy ends, giving to every one his own portion, and bearing in- 
 different respect unto all, without neglecting the meanest, or sparing the greatest in 
 their sins. 
 
 4. Wisely, framing all his doctrines, exhortations, and especially his reproofs, in 
 such a manner as may be most likely to prevail ; showing all due respect to each 
 man's person and place, and not mixing his own passion or bitterness. 
 
 5. Gravely, as becometh the word of GoJ ; shunning all such gesture, voice, and 
 expressions, as may occasion the corruptions of men to despise him and his ministry. 
 
 6. With loving affection, that the people may see all coming from his godly zeal, 
 and hearty desire to do them good. And, 
 
 7. As taught of God, and persuaded in his own iieart, that all that he teacheth 
 is the trutli of Christ ; and walking before his flock, as an example to them in it; 
 earnestly, both in private and publick, recommending his labours to the blessing of 
 God, and watchfully looking to himself, and the flock whereof the Lord hath made 
 him overseer : so shall the doctrine of truth be preserved uncorrupt. many souls 
 converted and built up. and himself receive manifold comforts of his labours even 
 in this life, and afterward the crown of glory laid up for him in the world to come. 
 
 Where there are more ministers in a congregation than one, and they of different 
 gifts, each may more especially apply himself to doctrine or exhortation, according 
 to the gift wherein he most excelleth, and as they shall agree between themselves. 
 
 ©f ^Jragcr aftn* Scnnon. 
 
 The sermon being ended, the minister is " To give thanks for the great love of 
 " God, in sending his Son Jesus Christ unto us , for the communication of his 
 " Holy Spirit ; for the light and liberty of the glorious gospel, and the rich and 
 " heavenly blessings revealed therein ; as. namely, election, vocation, adoption, jus- 
 " tification, sanciification, and hope of glory ; for the admirable goodness of God 
 " in freeing the land from anti-christian darkness and tyranny, and for all other 
 " national deliverances ; for the reformation of religion ; for the covenant ; and for 
 " many temporal blessings. 
 
 " To pray for the continuance of the gospel, and all ordinances thereof, in their 
 '• purity, power, and liberty : to turn the chief and most useful beads of the sermon 
 " into some few petitions ; and to pray that it may abide in the heart, and bring 
 " forth fniit. 
 
 " To pray for preparation for death and judgment, and a watching for the coming 
 " of our Lord Jesus Christ : to entreat of God the forgiveness of the iniquities of 
 " our holy things, and the acceptation of our spiritual sacrifice, through the merit 
 '' and mediation of our great High Priest and Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ." 
 
 And because the prayer which Christ taught his disciples is not only a pattern of 
 prayer, but itself a most comprehensive prayer, we recommend it also to be used in 
 the prayers of the church. 
 
15 
 
 And whereas, at the admiuistiation of the sacraments, the holding publick fasts 
 and days of thanksgiving, and other special occasions, which may afford matter of 
 special petitions and thanksgivings, it is requisite to express somewhat in our pub- 
 lick prayers (as at this time it is our duty to pray for a blessing upon the Assembly 
 of Divines, the armies by sea and land, for the defence of tlie King, Parliament, and 
 Kingdom), every minister is herein to apply himself in his prayer, before or after 
 sermon, to those occasions: but, for the manner, he is left to his liberty as God 
 shall direct and enable him, in piety and wisdom to discharge his duty. 
 
 The prayer ended, let a psalm be sung, if with conveniency it may be done. 
 After which (unless some other ordinance of Christ, that coucerueth the congrega- 
 tion at that time, be to follow) let the minister dismiss the congregation with a 
 solemn blessing. 
 
 ©f tfje airmtnistralton of it^t Sacraments: 
 ana first ®f Uapttsm. 
 
 Daftism, as it is not unnecessarily to be delayed, so it is not to be administered in 
 any case by any private person, but by a mijiister of Christ, called to be the steward 
 of the mysteries of God. 
 
 Nor is it to be administered in private places, or privately, but in the place of 
 jiublick worship, and in the face of the congregation, where the people may most 
 conveniently see and hear; and not in the places where fonts, in the time of Popery, 
 were unfitly and superstitiously placed. 
 
 The child to be baptized, after notice given to the minister the day before, is to be 
 presented by the father, or (in case of his necessary absence) by some Christian 
 friend in his place, professing his earnest desire that the child may be baptized. 
 
 Before baptism, the minister is to use some words of instruction, touching tlie 
 institution, nature, use, and ends of this sacrament, showing 
 
 " That it is instituted by our Lord Jesus Christ: That it is a seal of the covenant 
 " of grace, of our ingrafting into Christ, and of our union with him, of remission of 
 " sins, regeneration, adoption, and life eternal: That the water, in baptism, repre- 
 " senteth and signifieth both the blood of Christ, which taketh away all guilt of sin, 
 " original and actual; and the sanctifying virtue of the Spirit of Christ against the do- 
 " minion of sin, and the corruption of our sinful nature : That baptizing, or sprink- 
 " ling and washing with water, signifieth the cleansing from sin by the blood and for 
 " the merit of Christ, together with the mortification of sin, and rising from sin to new- 
 " ness of life, by virtue of the death and resurrection of Christ: That the promise is 
 " made to believers and their seed ; and that tlie seed and posterity of the faithful, 
 " born within the church, have, by their birth, interest in the covenant, and right to 
 " the seal of it, and to the outward privileges of the church, under the gospel, no 
 " less than the children of Abraham in the time of the Old Testament ; the co\e- 
 " nant of giace, for substance, being the same ; and the grace of God, and the con- 
 " solation of believers, more plentiful than before : Tiuit tlie Son of God admitted 
 " little children into his presence, embracing and blessing them, saying, Fur of such. 
 " is the kingdom of God: That children, by baptism, are solemnly received into the 
 ■' bosom of the visible church, distinguished from the world, and them that are witii- 
 ■' out, and united with believers; and that all who are baptized in the name of Christ, 
 " do renounce, and by their baptism aie bound to fight against the devil, the world, 
 " and the flesh : That they arc Christians, and ftdorally holy before baptisn;, and 
 
16 
 
 " tlierefore are lliey baplized ; Tliat tbe iuward grace and virtue of baptism is not 
 " tied to that very moment of time wlierein it is administered ; and tbat tbe fruit 
 " and power thereof reacbeth to tbe wbole course of our life ; and tbat outward 
 " baptism is not so necessarj^ tbat, tbrougli tbe want tbereof, tbe iufuut is in dan- 
 " ger of damnation, or tbe parents guilty, if tliey do not contemn or neglect the or- 
 " dinance of Clirist, wben and wbere it may be bad." 
 
 In these or tbe like instructions, the minister is to use his own liberty and godly 
 wisdom, as the ignorance or errors in the doctrine of baptism, and tbe edification of 
 tbe people, shall require. 
 
 He is also to admonish all tbat are present, 
 
 " To look back to their baptism ; to repent of their sins against their covenant 
 " with God, to stir up their faith ; to improve and make right use of their baptism, 
 " and of the covenant sealed thereby betwixt God and their souls." 
 He is to exhort tbe parent, 
 
 " To consider the great mercy of God to bim and bis child; to bring up tbe child 
 " in the knowledge of the grounds of tbe Christian religion, and in the nurture and 
 " admonition of the Lord; and to let him know the danger of God's wrath to him- 
 " self and child, if he be negligent : requiring his solemn promise for the perform- 
 " ance of his duty." 
 
 This being done, prayer is also to be joined with the word of institution, for 
 sanctifying the water to this spiritual use ; and the minister is to pray to this or tbe 
 like eflFect : 
 
 " That tbe Lord, who hath not left us as strangers without tbe covenant of promise, 
 " but called us to the privileges of his ordinances, would graciously vouchsafe to 
 " sanctify and bless bis own ordinance of baptism at tliis time : Tbat he would join 
 " tbe inward baptism of bis Spirit with tbe outward baptism of water; make this 
 " baptism to tbe infant a seal of adoption, remission of sin, regeneration, nud eter- 
 " nal life, and all other promises of tbe covenant of grace: That the child may be 
 " planted into the likeness of the death and resurrection of Christ ; and that, the body 
 " of sin being destroyed in him, he may serve God in newness of life all his days." 
 
 Then the minister is to demand tbe name of child ; which being told him, he is 
 to say (calling the child by his name,) 
 
 / baptize thee in the name of the Fatlier, and of the Sun, and of the Holy Ghost. 
 
 As he pronounceth these words, be is to baptize the child with water: which, for 
 the manner of doing of it, is not only lawful but sufficient, and most expedient to 
 be, by pouring or sprinkling of the water on the face of the child, without adding 
 any other ceremony. 
 
 This done he is to give thanks and pray, to this or tbe like purpose: 
 
 " Acknowledging with all thankfulness, tbat tbe Lord is true and faithful in 
 " keeping covenant and mercy : Tbat be is good and graeious, not only in tbat he 
 '■ numbereth us amongst his saints, but is pleased also to bestow upon our children 
 " this singular token and badge of bis love in Christ : That, in bis truth and spe- 
 " cial providence, he daily bringeth some into the bosom of his cbuicb, to be par- 
 " takers of his inestimable benefits, purchased by the blood of his dear Son, for the 
 " continuance and increase of his church. 
 
 " And praying, tbat tbe Lord would still continue, and daily confirm more and 
 " more this bis unspeakable favour : Tbat be would receive the infant now baptized, 
 •• and solemnly entered into the household of faith, into liis fatherly tuition and 
 
17 
 
 " defeuce, aiid remember him with the favour that he showeth to his people ; thwt, 
 " if he shall be takeu out of this life in his infancy, the Lord, who is rich in mercy, 
 " would be pleased to receive him up into glory ; and if he live, and attain the 
 " j-vars of discretion, that the Lord would so teach him by his word and Spirit, and 
 " make his baptism effectual to him, and so uphold him by his divine power and 
 *' grace, that by faith he may prevail against the devil, the world, and the flesh, till 
 " in the end he obtain a full and final victory, and so be kept by the power of God 
 " through faith unto salvation, through Jesus Christ our Lord." 
 
 The Assembly of Dinnes evidently intended that the Sacra- 
 ment of the Lord's Supper should be frequently observed. 
 
 Of the Celebration of the CommunioH, or Sacrament of the LonCs Supper. 
 The communion, or supper of the Lord, is frequently to be celebrated; but how 
 often, may be considered and determined by the ministers, and other church-gover- 
 nors of each congregation, as they shiUl find most convenient for the comfort and edifi- 
 cation of the people committed to their charge. And, when it shall be administered, 
 we judge it convenient to be done after the morning sermon. 
 
 The ignorant and the scandalous are not fit to receive the sacrament of the Lord's 
 Supper. 
 
 Where this sacrament cannot with convenience be frequently administered, it is 
 requisite that publick warning be given the sabbath-day before the administration 
 thereof: and that either then, or on some day of that week, something concerning 
 that ordinance, and the due preparation thereunto, and participation thereof, be 
 taught ; that, by the diligent use of all means sanctified of God to that end, both in 
 publick and private, all may come better prepared to that heavenly feast. 
 
 When the day is come for administration, the minister, having ended his sermon 
 and prayer, shall make a short exhortation : 
 
 " Expressing the inestimable benefit we have by this sacrament, together with 
 •' the ends and use thereof: setting forth the great necessity of having our comforts 
 " and strength renewed thereby in this our pilgrimage and warfare : how necessary 
 " it is that we come unto it with knowledge, faith, repentance, love, and with 
 " hungering and thirsting souls after Christ and his benefits : how great the danger 
 " to eat and drink unworthily. 
 
 " Next, he is, in the name of Christ, on the one part, to warn all such as are 
 " ignorant, scandalous, profane, or that live in any sin or offence against their 
 " knowledge or conscience, that they presume not to come to that holy table; sbow- 
 " ing them that he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh judg- 
 " ment unto himself: and, on the other part, he is in an especial manner to invite 
 " and encourage all that labour under the sense of the burden of their sins, and 
 " fear of wrath, and desire to reach out a greater progress in grace than yet they 
 " can attain unto, to come to the Lord's table ; assuring them, in the same name. 
 " of ease, refreshing, and streugth to their weak and wearied sonls." 
 
 After this exhortation, warning, and invitation, the table being before decently 
 covered, and so conveniently placed, that the communicants may orderly sit about 
 it, or at it, the minister is to begin the action with sanctifying and blessing the 
 elements of bread and wine set before him, (the bread in comely and" convenient 
 vessels, so prepared, that, being broken by him, and given, it may be distributed 
 amongst the communicants ; the wine also in large cups), having fiist. in a few 
 
18 
 
 words, showed that those elements, otherwise common, are now set apart and sanc- 
 tified to this holy nse, by the word of institution and prayer. 
 
 Let the words of institution be read out of the Evangelists, or out of the first 
 Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Coriutliians, Chap. xi. 23. / have received of 
 tfte Lord. &c. to the '27th Verse, which the minister may, when he seeth requisite, 
 explain and apply. 
 
 Let the prayer, thanksgiving, or blessing of the bread and wine, be to this efiect: 
 
 " With humble and thankful acknowledgment of the greatness of our misery, from 
 " which neither man nor angel was able to deliver us, and of our great unwortbiness 
 " of the least of all God's mercies ; to give thanks to God for all bis benefits, and 
 " especially for that great benefit of our redemption, the love of God the Father, the 
 " sufferings and merits of the Lord Jesus Christ the Son of God, by which we are 
 " delivered ; and for all means of grace, the word and sacraments ; and for this 
 " sacrament in particular, by which Christ, and all his benefits, are applied and 
 " sealed up unto us, which, notwithstanding the denial of them unto others, are in 
 " great mercy continued unto us, after so much and long abuse of them all. 
 
 " To profess, that there is no other name under heaven by which we can be 
 " saved, but the name of Jesus Christ, by whom alone we receive Hberty and life, 
 " have access to the throne of grace, are admitted to eat and drink at his own 
 " table, and are sealed up by his Spirit to an assurance of happiness and everlast- 
 " ing life. 
 
 " Earnestly to pray to God, the Father of all mercies, and God of all consolation, 
 " to vouchsafe his gracious presence, and the effectual working of his Spirit in us ; 
 " and so to sanctify these elements both of bread and wine, and to blees his own 
 " ordinance, that we may receive by faith the body and blood of Jesus Christ, cruci- 
 " fied for us, and so to feed upon him, that he may be one with us, and we one 
 " with him ; that he may live in us, and we in him, and to him who hath loved us, 
 " and given himself for us." 
 
 All which he is to endeavour to perform with suitable affections, answerable to 
 such an holy action, and to stir up the like in the people. 
 
 The elements being now sanctified by the word and prayer, the minister, being 
 at the table, is to take the bread in his hand, and say, in these expressions, for 
 other the like, used by Christ or his apostle upon this occasion :) 
 
 " According to the holy institution, command, and example of our blessed Sa- 
 " viour Jesus Christ, I take this bread, and, having given thanks, break it, and give 
 " it unto you ; (there the minister, who is also himself to communicate, is to break 
 " the bread, and give it to the communicants ;) Take ye, eat ye ; this is the body oj 
 " Christ which is broken for you : do this in rememhrance of him." 
 
 In like manner the minister is to take the cup, and say, in these expressions, (or 
 other the like, used by Christ or the apostle upon the same occasion :) 
 
 " According to the institution, command, and example of our Lord Jesns Christ, 
 " I take this cup, and give it unto you; (here he giveth it to the communicants;) 
 
 This cup is the new testament in the blood of Christ, which is shed for the remis- 
 " sion of the sins of many : drink ye all of it." 
 
 After all have communicated, the minister may, in a few words, put them in 
 
 mind, 
 
 " Of the Grace of God in Jesus Christ, held forth in this sacrament ; and exhort 
 
 " them to walk worthy of it." 
 
19 
 
 The minister is to give solemn thanks to God, 
 
 " For his rich mercy, and invaluable goodness, vouchsafed to them in tliat sacrH- 
 " ment ; and to entreat fur pardon for the defects of the whole service, and for the 
 " gracious assistance of his good Spirit, whereby they may be enabled to walk in 
 " the strength of that grace, as becomeih those who have received so great pledges 
 '• of salvation." 
 
 The collection for the poor is so to be ordered, that no part of the publick worship 
 be thereby hindered. 
 
 Of the Sanctijication of the Lord's Day. 
 
 The Lord's day ought to be so remembered before-hand, as that all wordly busi- 
 ness of our ordinary callings may be so ordered, and so timely and seasonably laid 
 aside, as they may not be impediments to the due sanctifying of the day when it 
 comes. 
 
 The whole day is to be celebrated as holy to ihe Lord, both in public and private, 
 as being the Christian Sabbath. To which end, it is requisite, that there be a holy 
 cessation or resting all that day from all unnecessary labours; an abstaining, not 
 only from all sp»rts and pastimes, but also from all worldly words and thoughts. 
 
 That the diet on that day be so ordered, as that neither servants be unnecessarily 
 detained from the public worship of God, nor any other person hindered from the 
 sanctifying that day. 
 
 That there be private preparations of every person and family, by prayer for them- 
 selves, and for God's assistance of the minister, and for a blessing upon his ministry; 
 and by such other holy exercises, as may further dispose them to a more comfort- 
 able communion with God in his publick ordinances. 
 
 That all the people meet so timely for puhlick worship, that the whole congrega- 
 tion may be present at the beginning, and with one heart solemnly join together in 
 all parts of the publick worship, and not depart till after the blessing. 
 
 That what time is vacant, between or after the solemn meetings of the congrega- 
 tion in publick, be spent in reading, meditation, repetition of sermons ; especially 
 by calling their families to an account of what they have heard, and catechising of 
 them, holy conferences, prayer for a blessing upon the publick ordinances, singing 
 of psalms, visiting the sick, relieving the poor, and such like duties of piety, charity, 
 and mercy, accounting the sabbath a delight. 
 
 The Solemnizat'wn of Maniag^. 
 
 Although marriage be no sacrament, nor peculiar to the church of God, but 
 common to mankind, and of publick interest in every commonwealth ; yet, because 
 such as marry are to marry in the Lord, and have special need of instruction, direc- 
 tion, and exhortation, from the word of God, at their entering into such a new con- 
 dition, and of the blessing of God upon them therein, we judge it expedient that 
 marriage be solemnized by a lawful miuisier of the word, that he may accordingly 
 counsel them, and pray for a blessing upon them. 
 
 Marriage is to be betwixt one man and one woman onh ; and they, such as are 
 not within the degrees of consanguity or affinity prohibited by the word of God; and 
 the parties are to be of years of discretion, fit to make their own choice, or, upon 
 good grounds, to give their mutual consent. 
 
 Before the solemnizing of marriage between any persons, their purpose of mar- 
 riage shall be published by the minister tliree several sabbath-days, in the congrega- 
 tion, at the place or places of iheir most nf.ual and constant abode respectively. 
 
20 
 
 And of this publication the minister wLo is to join tbem in marriage shall have 
 sufficient testimony, before be proceed to solemnize the marriage. 
 
 Before that publication of such their purpose, (if the parties be under age,) the 
 consent of the parents, or others under whose power they are, (in case the parents 
 be dead,) is to be made known to the church officers of that congregation, to be re- 
 corded. 
 
 The like is to be observed in the proceedings of all others although of age, whose 
 parents are living, for their first marriage. 
 
 And, in after marriages of either of those parties, they shall be exhorted not to 
 contract marriage without first acquainting their parents with it, (if with convenience 
 it may be done,} endeavouring to obtain their consent. 
 
 Parents ought not to force their children to many without their free consent, nor 
 deny their own consent without just cause. 
 
 After the purpose or contract of marriage hath been thus published, the marriage 
 is not to be long deferred. Therefore the minister, having had convenient warning, 
 and nothing been objected to hinder it, is publickly to solemnize it in the place ap- 
 pointed by authority for public worship, before a competent number of credible wit- 
 nesses, at some convenient hour of the day, at any time of the year, except on a day 
 of publick humiliation. And we advise that it be not on the Lord's day. 
 
 And because all relations are sanctified by the word and prayer, the minister is to 
 l,ray for a blessing upon them, to this eflfect : — 
 
 " Acknowledging our siiis, whereby we have made ourselves less than the least 
 '• of all the mercies of God, and provoked him to embitter all our comforts ; ear- 
 " nestly, in the name of Christ, to entreat the Lord (whose presence and favour is 
 " the happiness of every condition, and sweetens every relation) to be their portion, 
 " and to own and accept them in Christ, who are now to be joined in the honourable 
 " estate of marriage, the covenant of their God : and that, as he hath brought them 
 " together by His providence, he would sanctify them by His Spirit, giving them a 
 " new frame of heart fit for their new estate ; enriching them with all giaces where- 
 " by they may perfonn the duties, enjoy the comforts, undergo the cares, and resist 
 '• the temptations which accompany that condition, as becometh Christians." 
 
 The prayer being euded, it is convenient that the minister do briefly declare unto 
 them, out of the scripture — 
 
 " The institution, use, and ends of marriage, T,ith the conjugal duties, which in 
 " all faithfulness, they are to perform each to other ; exhorting them to study the 
 " holy word of God, that they may learn to live by faith, and to be content in the 
 " midst of all marriage cares and troubles, sanctifying God's name, in a thankful, 
 " sober, and holy use of all conjugal comforts; praying much with and for one 
 " another ; watching over and provoking each other to love and good works ; and 
 •' to live together as the heirs of grace and life." 
 
 After solemn charging of the persons to be married, before the great God who 
 searcheth all hearts, and to whom they must give a strict account at the last day, 
 and if either of them know any cause, by pre-contract or otherwise, why they may 
 not lawfully proceed to marriage, that they now discover it ; the minister ("if no 
 impediment be acknowledged) shall cause first the man to take the woman by the 
 right band, saying these words : 
 
 / N. do take thee N. <o he my married wife, and do, in the presence of God, and 
 before this congregation, promise and covenant to be a loving and faithful husband 
 unto thee, until God shall separate us by death. 
 
21 
 
 Then the womau shall take the naaii by the right liand. and say these words : 
 
 / N. do take thee N. to be my married husband, and I do, in the presence of God 
 and bejore this congregation, protnise and covenant to be a loving, "faithful,'' and 
 obedient wife tinto thee, until God shall separate us 6y death. 
 
 Then, without any further ceremony, the minister shall, iu the face of the cougre- 
 gH lion, pronounce them to be husband and wife, according to God's ordinance ; and 
 so conclude the action with prayer to this effect : 
 
 " That the Lord would be pleased to accompany his owu ordiiniuce with bis 
 " blessing, beseeching Lim to enrich the persons now mairied.as with other pledges 
 " of his love, so particularly with the comforts and fruits of marriage, to the praise 
 " of His abundant mercy, in and through Christ Jesus." 
 
 A register is to be carefully kept, wherein the names of the parties so married 
 with the time of their marriiige, are forthwith to be fairly recorded iu a hook, pro- 
 vided for that purpose for the perusal of all whom it may conctru. 
 
 Conrrrning Fisitation of t^c sirfe.* 
 
 It is the duty of the minister not only to teach the people committed to his charge 
 iu publick, but privately ; and particularly to admonish, exhort, reprove, and com- 
 fort them, upon all seasonable occasions, so far as his time, strength, and pereonal 
 safety will permit. 
 
 He is to admonish them, iu time of liealth, to prepare for death ; and, for that 
 purpose, they are often to confer with their minister about the estate of their souls; 
 and, iu times of sickness, to desire his advice and help, timely and seasonably, be- 
 fore their strength and understandiug fail them. 
 
 Times of sickness and afflictiou are special opportunities put into his hand by 
 God to minister a word iu season to weary souls : because then the consciences of 
 men are or should be more awakened to bethink themselves of their spiritual estate 
 for eternity ; and Satan also takes advantage then to load tliem more with soie and 
 heavy temptations : then-fore, the minister being seut for, and repairing to the sick 
 is to apply himself, wiib all tenderness and love, to administer some spiritual good 
 to his soul, to this effect. 
 
 He may from the consideration of the present sickness, instruct him out of scrip- 
 ture, that diseases come not by chance, or by distempei-s of body only, but by the 
 wise and orderly guidance of the good hand of God to every particulw person smit- 
 ten by them. And that, whether it be laid upon him out of displeasure for sin for 
 his correction and amendment, or for trial and exorcise of his graces, or for other 
 special and excellent ends, all his sufferings shall turu to his profit, and work to- 
 gether for his good, if he sincerely labour to make a sanctified use of God's visita- 
 tion, neither despising his chastening, nor waxiug weary of his correction. 
 
 If he suspect him of iguonuice, he shall examine him in the principles of religion, 
 especially touching repentance and faith ,• and as he seeth cause, instruct him in the 
 nature, use, excellency, and necessity of those graces ; as also touching the cove- 
 nant of grace ; and Christ the Son of God, the Mediator of it ; and concerning re- 
 mission of sins by faith in him. 
 
 He shall exhort the sick person to examine himself, to search and U\ his former 
 ways, and his estate towards God. 
 
 • The directions given under this heaJ, f>s generally tlnougUuut the Conipcnd, are iieculinrlv 
 weight)- and valuaMc. 
 
22 
 
 And if the sick person shall declare aoy scruple, doubt, or temptation that are 
 upon him, instnictions and resolutions shall be given to satisfy and settle him. 
 
 If it appear that he hath not a due sense of his sins, endeavours ought to be used 
 to convince him of his sins, of the guilt and desert of them ; of the filth and pollu- 
 tion which the soul contracts by them ; and of the curse of the law and wrath of 
 God, due to them ; that he may be truly affected with and humbled for them : and 
 withal make known the danger of deferring repentance, and of neglecting salvation 
 at any time offered ; to awaken his conscience, and rouse him up out of a stupid 
 and secure condition, to apprehend the justice and wrath of God. before whom none 
 can stand, but he that, lost in himself, layeth hold upon Christ by faith. 
 
 If he hath endeavoured to walk in the ways of holiness, and to serve God in up- 
 rightness, although not without many failings and infirmities; or, if his spirit be 
 broken with the sense of sin, or cast down through want of the sense of God'a fa- 
 vour ; then it will be fit to raise him up, by setting before him the freeness and ful- 
 ness of God's grace, the snflSciency of righteousness in Christ, the gracious offers in 
 the gospel, that all who repent, and believe with all their heart in God's mercy 
 through Christ, renouncing their own righteousness, shall have life and salvation in 
 him. It may be also useful to show him, that death hath in it no spiritual evil to 
 be feared by those that are in Christ, because sin, the sting of death, is taken away 
 by Christ, who hath delivered all that are his from the bondage of the fear of death, 
 triumphed over the grave, given us victory, is himself entered into glory to prepare 
 a place for his people : so that neither life nor death shall be able to separate them 
 from God's love in Christ, in whom such are sure, though now they must be laid in 
 tlie dust, to obtain a joyful and glorious resurrection to eternal life. 
 
 Advice also may be given, as to beware of an ill-grounded persuasion on mercy 
 or on the goodness of his condition for heaven, so to disclaim all merit in himself, 
 and to cast himself wholly upon God for mercy, in the sole merits and mediation of 
 Jesus Christ, who hath engaged himself never to cast off them who in truth and 
 sincerity come unto him. Care also must be takeu, that the sick person be not cast 
 down into despair, by such a severe representation of the wrath of God due to him 
 for his sins, as is not molified by a sensible propounding of Christ and his merit for 
 a door of hope to every penitent believer. 
 
 When the sick person is best composed, may be least disturbed, and other neces- 
 sary offices about him least hindered, the minister, if desired, shall pray with him, 
 and for him, to this effect : 
 
 " Confessing and bewailing of sin original and actual ; the miserable condition 
 " of all by nature, as being children of wrath, and under the curse ; acknowledging 
 " that all diseases, sicknesses, death, and hell itself, are the proper issues and effects 
 " thereof; imploring God's mercy for the sick person, through the blood of Christ ; 
 " beseeching that God would open his eyes, discover unto him hia sins, cause him 
 " to see himself lost in himself, make known to him the cause why God smiteth 
 •• him, reveal Jesus Christ to his soul for righteousness and life, give unto him his 
 • Holy Spirit, to create and strengthen faith to lay hold upon Christ, to work iu 
 " him comfortable evidences of his love, to arm him against temptations, to take off 
 " his heart from the world, to sanctify his present visitation, to furnish him with 
 " patience and strength to bear it, aud to give him perseverance in faith to the end. 
 
 " That, if God shall please to add to his days, he would vouchsafe to bless and 
 '- sanctify all means of his recovery; to remove the disease, renew his strength, and 
 
23 
 
 " enable Lim to walk worthy of God, by a faithful remembrauce, and diligent ob- 
 " serving of such vows and promises of holiness and obedience, as men are apt to make 
 " in times of sickness, that he may glorify God in the remaining part of his life. 
 
 " And, if God have determined to finish bis days by the present visitation, he may 
 " find such evidence of the pardon of all bis sins, of his interest in Christ, aud eter- 
 " nal life by Christ, as may cause his inwai-d man to be renewed, while his outward 
 " man decayeth ; that he may behold death without fear, cast himself wholly upon 
 " Christ without doubting, desire to be dissolved and to be witli Christ, and so re- 
 " ceive the end of his faith, the salvation of his soul, through the only meriU and 
 " intercession of the Lord Jesus Christ, our alone Saviour aud all-sufficient Re- 
 " deemer." 
 
 The minister shall admonish him also (as there shall be cause) to set his house 
 in order, thereby to prevent inconveniences ; to take care for payment of his debts, 
 aud to make restitution or satisfaction where he hath done any wrong ; to be recon- 
 ciled to those with whom he hath been at variance, aud fully to forgive all men 
 their trespasses against him, as he expects forgiveness at the hand of God. 
 
 Lastly, The minister may improve the present occasion to exhort those about the 
 sick person to consider their own mortality, to return to the Lord, and make peace 
 with him ; in health to prepare for sickness, death, and judgment ; and all the days 
 of their appointed time so to wait until their change come, that when Christ, who 
 is our life, shall appear, they may appear with him in glory. 
 
 Conremiiig ISurtal of ttic Head. 
 
 When any person departeth this life, let the dead body, upon the day of burial, be 
 decently attended from the house to the place appointed for publick burial, and 
 there immediately interred, without any ceremony. 
 
 And because the custom of kneeling down, and praying by or towards the dead 
 corpse, and other such usages, in the place where it lies before it be carried to 
 burial, are superstitious ; and for that praying, reading, and singing, both in going 
 to and at the grave, have been grossly abused, are no way beneficial to the dead, 
 and have proved many ways hurtful to the living; therefore let all such things be 
 laid aside. 
 
 Howbeif, we judge it very convenient, that the Christian friends, which accom- 
 pany the dead body to the place appointed for publick burial, do apply themselves to 
 meditations aud conferences suitable to the occasion ; and that the minister, as up- 
 on other occasions, so at this time, if ho be present, may put them in remembrance 
 of their duty. 
 
 That this shall not extend to deny any civil respects or deferences at the burial, 
 suitable to the rauk and condition of the parly deceased, while he was living. 
 
 Concerning ^^ublicfe Solemn ifasttng. 
 
 When some great and notable judgments are either inflicted upon a people, or 
 apparently imminent, or by some extraordinary provocations notoriously deserved ; 
 as also when some special blessing is to be sought and obtained, publick solemn 
 fasting (which is to continue the whole day) is a duty that God expecteth from that 
 nation or people. 
 
 A religious fast requires total abstinence, not only from all food (unless bodily 
 
24 
 
 weakness do manifestly disable from holding out till the fast be ended, in which 
 case somewhat may be taken, yet very sparingly, to support nature, when ready to 
 faint), but also from all worldly labour, discourses, and thoughts, and from a'l bodily 
 delights, and such like (although at other times lawful), rich apparel, ornaments, 
 and such hke, during the fast ; and much more from whatever is in the nature or 
 use scandalous aud offensive, as gaudish attire, lascivious habits and gestures, and 
 other vanities of either sex ; which we recommend to all ministers, iu their plaeest 
 diligently and zealously to reprove, as at other times, so especially at a fast, without 
 respect of persons, as there shall be occasion. 
 
 Before the publick meeting, each family and person apart are privately to use all 
 religious care to prepare their hearts to such a solemn work, and to be early at the 
 congregation. 
 
 So large a portion of the day as conveniently may be, is to be spent in public 
 reading and preaching of the word, with singing of psalms, fit to quicken affections 
 suitable to such a duty : but especially iu prayer, to this or the like effect : 
 
 " Giving glory to the great Majesty of God, the Creator. Preserver, and supreme 
 " Ruler of all the world, the better to affect us thereby with an holy reverence and 
 " awe of him ; acknowledging his manifold, great, and tender mercies, especially to 
 " the church and nation, the more effectually to soften and abase our hearts before 
 " him ; humbly confessing of sins of all sons, with their several aggravations ; 
 "justifying God's righteous judgments, as being far less than our sins do deserve; 
 " yet humbly aud earnestly imploring his mercy aud grace for ourselves, the church 
 " and nation, for our king, aud all in authority, and for all others for whom we are 
 " bound to pray (according as the present exigent requireib). with more special 
 " importunity and enlargement than at other times; applying by faith the promises 
 " and goodness of God for pardon, help and deliverance from the evils felt, feared, 
 " or deserved ; and for obtaining the blessings which we need and expect ; together 
 '• with a giving up of ourselves wholly and for ever unto the Lord." 
 
 In all these, the ministers, who are the mouths of the people unto God, ought 
 so to speak from their hearts, upon serious and thorough premeditation of them, 
 that both themselves and their people may be much affected, and even melted 
 thereby, especially with sorrow for their sins ; that it may be indeed a day of deep 
 humiliation and afflicting of the soul. 
 
 Special choice is to be made of such scriptures to be read, and of such tests for 
 preaching, as may best work the hearts of the hearers to the special business of the 
 day, and most dispose them to humiliation and repentance : insisting most on those 
 particulars which each minister's observation and experience tells him are most 
 conducing to the edification and reformation of that congregation to which he 
 preacheth. 
 
 Before the close of the public duties, the minister is, in his own and the people's 
 names, to engage his and their hearts to be the Lord's, with professed purpose and 
 resolution to reform whatever is amiss among them, and more particularly such 
 sins as they have been more remarkably guilty of; and to draw near unto God, and 
 to walk more closely and faithfully with him in new obedience, than ever before. 
 
 He is also to admonish the people, with all importunity, that the work of that 
 day doth not end with the public duties of it, but that they are so to improve the 
 remainder of the day, and of their whole life, in reinforcing upon themselves and 
 their families in private all those godly affections and resolutions which they profes- 
 
25 
 
 sed ID public, as that tbey may be settled in their hearts for ever, and themselves 
 infty more sensibly find that God haih smelt a sweet savonr in Christ from their per- 
 formances, and is pacified towards them, by answers of grace, in pardoning of sin, in 
 removing of judgments, in avening or preventing of plagues, and in conferring of 
 blessings, suitable to the conditions and prayers of his people, by Jesus Christ. 
 
 Besides solemn and general fasts enjoined by authority, we judge that, at other 
 times, congregations m,<»y keep days of fasting, as divine Providence shall administer 
 UDto them special occasion ; and also that families may do the same, so it be not on 
 days wherein the congregation to which they do belong is to meet for fasting, or 
 o-.her publick duties of worship. 
 
 Conrmting tfir <Pbsrrbatujn of Sags of ^ublirfe fAaors^tp- 
 
 Whkn any such day is to be kept, let notice be given of it, and of the occasion 
 thereof, some convenient time before.jhat the people may the better prepare them- 
 selves thereunto. 
 
 The day being come, and the congregation (aAer private preparations) being 
 assembled, the minister is to begin with a word of exhortation, to stir up the people 
 to the duty for which they are met, and with a sLon prayer for God's assistance 
 aid blessing (^as at other conventions for public worship), according to the particu- 
 lar occasion of their meeting. 
 
 Let him then make some pithy narration of the deliverance obtained, or mercy 
 received, or of whatever hath occiisioned that assembling of the congregation, that 
 all may better understand it. or be minded of it, and more affected with it. 
 
 And, because singing of psdms is of all other the most proper onliuauce for ex- 
 pressing of joy and thanksgiving, let some peniuent psalm or psalms be sung for 
 tliat pm^iose, before or afier the reading of some portion of the word suitable to the 
 present business. 
 
 Then let the minister, who is to preach, proceed to further exhortation and prayer 
 before his sermon, with special reference to the present work: after which, let 
 him preach upon some text of scripture pertinent to the occasion. 
 
 The sermon ended, let him not only pray, as at other times after preaching is direc- 
 ted, with remembrance of the necessities of the Church, King, and State (if before the 
 sermon they were omitted), but enlarge himself in due and solemn thanksgiving for 
 former mercies and deliverances ; but more especially for that which at the present 
 calls them together to give thanks : with humble petition for the continuance and 
 renewing of God's wonted mercies, as need shall be, and for sanctifying grace to 
 miike a right use thereof. And so. having sung another psalm, suitable to tiie 
 mercy, let him dismiss the congregation with a blessing, that they may have some 
 convenient lime for their repast and refreshing. 
 
 But the minister (before their dismission) is solemnly to admonish them to 
 beware of all excess and riot, tending to gluttony or drunkenness, and much more 
 of these sins themselves, in their eating and refreshing; and to take care that 
 their mirth and rejoicing be not carnal, but spiritual, which may make God's praise 
 to be glorious, and themselves humble and sober; and that both their feeling and 
 rejoicing may render them more cheerful and enlarged, further to celebrate his 
 praises in the midst of tlie congregation, when they return unto it in the remaining 
 part of that day. 
 
 When the congregation shall be again assembled, the like course in praying, 
 
 D 
 
reading, preacUing, singing of psalms, and oflferiug up of more praise and thanks- 
 giving, that is before directed for the morning, is to be renewed and continued, so 
 far as the time will give leave. 
 
 At one or both of the publick meetings that day, a collection is to be made for 
 the poor (and in like manner upon the day of publick humiliation), that their 
 loins may bless us, and rejoice the more with us. And the people are to be ex- 
 horted, at the end of the latter meeting, to spend the residue of that day in holy 
 duties, and testifications of Christian love and charity one towards another, and of 
 rejoicing more and more in the Lord ; as becometh those who make the joy of the 
 Lord their strength. 
 
 m Sfinging of ^^salmfl. 
 
 It is the duty of Christians to praise God publickly, by singing of psalms together 
 in the congregation, and also privately in the family. 
 
 In singing of psalms, the voice is to be tunably and gravely ordered ; but the 
 chief care must be to sing with understanding, and with grace in the heart, making 
 melody unto the Lord. 
 
 That the whole congregation may join herein, every one that can read is to have 
 a psalm book ; and all others, not disabled by age or otherwise, are to be exhorted 
 to learn to read. But for the present, where many in the congregation cannot read, 
 it is convenient that the minister, or some other fit person appointed by him and 
 the other ruling oflScers, do read the psalm, line by line, before the singing 
 thereof. 
 
 AN APPENDIX, 
 
 Touching Days or Places for Publick Worship. 
 
 There is no day commanded in scripture to be kept holy under' the gospel but 
 the Lord's day, which is the Christian Sabbath. 
 
 Festival-days, vulgarly called Holy-days, having no warrant in the word of God, 
 are not to be continued. 
 
 Nevertheless, it is lawful and necessary, upon special emergent occasions, to 
 separate a day or days for publick fasting or thanksgiving, as the several eminent 
 and extraordinary dispensations of God's providence shall administer cause and 
 opportunity to his people. 
 
 As no place is capable of any holiness, under pretence of whatsoever dedication 
 or consecration ; so neither is it subject to such pollution by any superstition for- 
 merly used, and now laid aside, as may render it unlawful or inconvenient for Chris- 
 tians to meet together therein for the publick worship of God. And therefore we 
 hold it requisite, that the places of publick assembling for worship among us should 
 be continued and employed to that use. 
 
27 
 
 PART III. 
 
 FOKMS AND SEETICE OF THE CHUBCH OF SCOTLAND. 
 Carriage Srrbwc. 
 
 Although the marriage of parties who are desirous of enter- 
 ing into the relationship subsisting between man and wife, 
 partakes of the nature of a civil contract, and may be legally 
 carried out, independently of ministerial aid, — in almost every 
 instance the parties desire to be united by the clergyman of 
 the district, or by a minister belonging to the denomination 
 with which they are connected. The purpose of marriage 
 requires to be duly intimated three times in the parish chiu-ch, 
 besides which, by a recent enactment, a paper, to be had on 
 application to the registrar of the parish or district, requires 
 to be procured, and the details specified in that paper fur- 
 nished by the parties ; after which, two witnesses present, 
 besides the clergyman, must attest that the marriage has been 
 regularly performed. This paper is to be returned to the 
 registrar within three days, under a penalty, that the requisite 
 entries may be made in his books. 
 
 It is not necessary nor expedient that the marriage cere- 
 mony should be protracted. The address delivered on the 
 occasion should be conveyed in few and fitting words. The 
 service is commenced and closed with prayer, and the hus- 
 band and wife may be addressed in such terms as will be 
 found appended : — 
 
 Almighty and everlasting God ! we would draw near to Thee 
 with reverence and awe. Thou art the King eternal, immortal, and 
 invisible, to whom we owe every breath which we draw, and every 
 feeling of which we are conscious. By Thy providence, and in Thy 
 wisdom, all the events in the past period of our lives have been or- 
 
28 
 
 dered. If the lines have fallen to us in pleasant places, and we have 
 enjoyed a goodly heritage, to Thee the debt of gratitude is due ; and 
 when we reflect upon the past, our souls, and all that is within us, 
 should he stirred up to bless Thy holy name. 
 
 More especially, we praise Thee that Thy word has been furnished 
 to us as a directory of conduct ; wherein we have line upon line, and 
 precept upon precept : meant to guide us in the discharge of life's 
 varied duties. 
 
 Through its precepts may we get understanding, and learn to hate 
 every false way. 
 
 Met as we are now, we entreat Thy presence and blessing. Hear 
 us, Lord, and answer us according to the riches of Thy mercy and 
 loving kindness. 
 
 We thank Thee, especially, for the station assigned to man 
 amidst Thine other works : that Thou hast placed conscience to be 
 Thy vicegerent within his breast, hast given him reason and under- 
 standing, and hast sanctioned arrangements intended to contribute 
 to the security of human virtue, and the increase of human happiness. 
 
 Deign, we beseech Thee, to countenance with a blessing that ser- 
 vice in which we are to be engaged. As these individuals have 
 been brought together in Thy providence, may they be sanctified by 
 Thy grace, and prepared for the duties of that state upon which they 
 now propose to enter. Acknowledging Thee in all their ways, do 
 Thou be pleased to direct their steps aright, — granting them in this 
 world a knowledge of Thy Truth, and in the world to come life ever- 
 lasting. And all that we ask, is in the name and for the sake of 
 our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, to whom, with Thee and the 
 Holy Spirit, be all honour and glory ascribed, now and ever. Amen. 
 The minister then addresses himself to the intending huf- 
 hand and wife, naming the parties. 
 
 " If there be any reason why you should not be joined together in 
 marriage, let it now be declared," 
 
 " You will join hands." This being done, he says — 
 " You *' A. B." do take this woman whom you hold by the hand 
 to be your lawful and wedded wife, before God, and in presence of 
 these witnesses, and yon promise that you will be to her a faithful, 
 loving, and affectionate husband, until God in his providence shall 
 separate you by death ?" 
 
 On the bridegroom assenting, he says to the bride — 
 
 " You " C. D.'" do take this man whom vou now hold bv the 
 
29 
 
 hand to be your lawful and wedded husband, before God, aiul in 
 presence of these witnesses, and you promise that you will be to 
 him a faithful, loving, and obedient wife, until God in his providence 
 shall separate you by death ? " 
 
 The bride's assent having been signified, the minister says — 
 *' In the name of God, I now declare you to be married persons, 
 and whom God hath joined, let no man put asunder." He then 
 addresses the parties in some such form as follows : — 
 
 i£xf)ortalion. 
 
 The relationship upon which you have entered, is one which in- 
 volves the discharge of serious and important duties, and is not to 
 be lightly gone about. In respect of the obligations which it sup- 
 poses, we find clear and explicit directions given in the inspired 
 Word, which is meant to be a directory of our conduct. 
 
 Therein it is said, " Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also 
 loved his chui'ch, and gave himself for it ; " and from the reciprocal 
 nature of this connection, there must be corresponding duties arising 
 out of it. It pre-supposes love, confidence, and esteem ; and as the 
 relationship is one that is to last during life, it should be the aim 
 of both parties concerned, that those feelings of mutual confidence 
 and esteem which have induced them to think of a marriage union, 
 instead of decreasing, should be augmented with each successive year 
 that passes over their heads. 
 
 The connection is therefore one which should be entered into in 
 that " fear of the Lord which is the beginning of wisdom." 
 
 With reference to those obligations which are specially binding 
 upon the husband, — he is called upon to love and cherish his wife, 
 with all honour and fidelity ; to guard her from injury as the weaker 
 vessel ; in the assiduous discharge of the duties of his lawful calling, 
 to make provision for the wants of those whom God has entrusted 
 to his keeping ; and, as occupying the position of the head of a house- 
 hold, to rule that household well in the fear of the Lord ; showing 
 a becoming regard in his daily life for the relative, social, and reli- 
 gious duties. 
 
 If such obligations be incumbent upon the husband, from the re- 
 ciprocal natui-e of this connection, there must be similar duties de- 
 volving upon the wife. If her husband is to love and cherish her 
 with honour and fidelity, she is called upon to esteem and honour 
 him. If be is enjoined to provide for the wants of those con- 
 nected with him, so, a virtuous woman, as Solomon observes, "looks 
 
30 
 
 ■well to her own household." She " eateth not the bread of idleness ;" 
 and much of the future comfort and respectability of a married pair, 
 will depend upon the prudence and economy with which she regu- 
 lates matters : while lastly, if the husband is called upon, by a sense 
 of duty to God, and by regard to the highest interests of others, to 
 maintain and keep alive the stated worship of God in his household, 
 it becomes her to cherish the same aim, and, if it shall please God to 
 bless the union with children, to make it her desire that they, both 
 in time and throughout eternity, may have reason to bless those who 
 have given them being. 
 
 In short, it is the duty of both mutually to assist, comfort, and 
 encourage one another, seeking so to bear each other's burdens, as 
 that they may fulfil the law of Christ. Let us pray. 
 
 Conclulttng l^ra^tv 
 
 Follow, Lord, with a blessing, we beseech Thee, that act which 
 we have now performed. We commend to Thy care the parties who 
 have entered upon this relationship. Grant them that portion of 
 temporal happiness which is befitting, and enable them so to bear 
 each other's burdens, as that they may fulfil the law of Christ. 
 May they take thy Word as the directory of their conduct, and seek 
 after Thy favour which is life, and Thy loving kindness which is 
 better than life. 
 
 Impress upon us a conviction that the ties of earth are but transi- 
 tory in duration, so that we may rejoice as though we rejoiced not, 
 and weep as though we wept not. Help us all diligently and faith- 
 fully to discharge the duties incumbent upon us in our several sta- 
 tions and relations. While not slothful in business, may we also 
 be fervent in spirit, loving and serving Thee the one living and true 
 God ; seeking to avoid fleshly lusts, to have our walk honest before 
 men, and to have our conversation in heaven. Enrich us with Thy 
 grace. Uphold us by Thy Spirit. Guide us while we live in this 
 world by Thy counsel, and fit us for participation in the glory which 
 is hereafter to be revealed ; for the sake of Christ Jesus, who once 
 dignified by His presence a marriage feast, and who hath left us an 
 example that we should walk in His steps. Amen. 
 
31 
 
 Baptismal Serbtce. 
 
 The sacrament of Baptism, except when particular reasons 
 render its private ackninisti-atiou expedient, is most suitably 
 dispensed within the church. The infant is ui the orthnance 
 admitted as a member of Christ's \'isible chm'ch. All parents 
 who are present are reminded of solemn and important duties 
 toward their offspring, and the infant is commended to the 
 prayers and sohcitude of the office-bearers and members of 
 the congi-egation. 
 
 When the sacrament of Baptism is administered in the 
 house, it is usual and proper to commence by invoking the 
 Divine blessing. The form now given is, with the exception of 
 the initroductory prayer, suitable also for the administration 
 of baptism in pubHc. 
 
 introtructors ISravn:- 
 
 Almighty and ever-blessed God I who hast promised that 
 wheresoever two or three are met together, Thou wilt be in the 
 midst of them, hear now our supplications. Thou art the King 
 eternal, immortal, and invisible ; the Father of lights, without 
 variableness or shadow of turning; a God of love and wisdom, 
 who appointest all the incidents of our earthly life. We were early 
 cast upon Thy bounty and Thou hast not ceased to care for us : Who 
 hast been our protector in danger, the healer of our diseases, and a 
 very present help in the time of trouble. We are indebted to Thee 
 for countless mercies. Thine is the food that we eat and the rai- 
 ment wherewith we are clothed ; to Thee we owe the powers of the 
 body and the faculties of the mind. 
 
 Especially, Lord, we bless and praise Thee for the revelation of 
 Thy truth and mercy, given through our Lord and Saviour Jesus 
 Christ ; who bare our sins in His own body on the tree ; who died 
 the just for the unjust ; who gave Himself for us, an offering and a 
 sacrifice. In His name, and for His sake, we beg the remis- 
 sion of our sins. On His account, be pleased to receive us graci- 
 ously and to love us freely. Pardon our uuworthiness, and enable 
 us at this time to make to Thee an acceptable approach. 
 
 Father of mercies I who despisest not the cry of the penitent : 
 Lord Jesus Christ, Saviour of sinners : Holy Spirit, the Comforter, 
 
32 
 
 three persons and one God, hear our earnest supplications, and to 
 Thy name be all the glory, world without end. Amen. 
 
 autrrcsjs to tfte J^arent. 
 
 You present this child unto the Lord, and you desire that he (or 
 she) may be admitted a member of Christ's visible Church, and may 
 receive the seal of the covenant of grace ? 
 
 Baptism (as the standards of our Church define it), is a sacrament 
 wherein the washing with water in the name of the Father, the Son, 
 and the Holy Ghost, doth signify and seal our engrafting into Christ, 
 our partaking of the benefits of the covenant of grace, and our en- 
 gagement to be the Lord's. 
 
 It is not to be administered to any that are out of the visible 
 Church, till they profess their faith in Christ and obedience to Him ; 
 but the infants of such as are members of the visible Church are to 
 be baptized. 
 
 Baptism has come in the place and room of circumcision, the ex- 
 ternal ordinance of admission into the Church, under the Old Testa- 
 ment economy ; and while, like the other institutions of our holy 
 faith, it is simple in itself, it is not the less significant. 
 
 We employ water in administering this ordinance in token of the 
 necessity of our being cleansed from original corruption and actual 
 sin, which can only be from the application of Christ's blood, through 
 the exercise of faith, to the heart and conscience. As, by nature, 
 bom in sin and shapen in iniquity, we stand in need of being re- 
 newed ; and it is characteristic of Christ's people, who are spoken of 
 as " buried with Him in baptism," that they seek to " walk with Him 
 in newness of life." 
 
 Baptism lays those to whom it is administered under solemn obli- 
 gations. But, as infants are incapable of entering into the scope 
 and meaning of these (though there be ample warrant for the ad- 
 ministration of the ordinance even at so early a period), you, the 
 parent of this child, now take them upon you on his behalf. 
 
 I ask no formal acknowledgment of your belief in the great truths 
 contained in Christ's Gospel and in the divine Word ; since these 
 your Christian profession justifies me in taking for granted. 
 
 But you promise to train up this little one in the nurture and ad- 
 monition of the Lord ; to give him the best instruction in your 
 power, admonishing him to follow after wisdom's ways of pleasant- 
 ness and her paths of peace ; acquainting him with the meaning of 
 this dedication which you are now making of him to the service of a 
 
33 
 
 Father in heaven ; and urging him [i{ you and he be spared together 
 so long), to take these vows upon himself, by commemorating the 
 death of Christ in the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, which He 
 has also appointed ? 
 
 And you likewise promise that, besides instructing your child in the 
 way wherein he ought to go, it will be your concern and desire, by 
 God's strength and blessing, to set before him a good, pious, and 
 Christian example, seeking to walk according to the commandments 
 and ordinances of the Lord blameless? 
 
 These obligations, incumbent upon all who present their children 
 for baptism, you now promise through divine grace to discharge ? 
 
 The parent having signified his assent, the minister goes on 
 to say : — 
 
 " Let us pray/' 
 
 ^raoer bcfort Saptism. 
 
 Solemnize our minds, we again beseech Thee, Lord, as. we 
 would draw near to Thee, and enable us to render to Thee accept- 
 able service. 
 
 We thank Thee for all the ordinances and institutions of our holy 
 faith, more especially for that sacrament which we are about to 
 administer. We bless Thee tiiat om* Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, 
 before He left this world and ascended on high, gave this commission 
 to His disciples, saying. Go and teach all nations, baptizing them in 
 the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. 
 
 This is a seal and sign of the covenant of grace, of the new cove- 
 nant with promise. May it, in Thine own good time and way, be 
 accompanied by that reality which it is intended to signify and de- 
 note; and grant, Lord (who workest when, where, and how Thou 
 pleasest), if it be agreeable to Thy holy will, that while we baptize 
 outwardly with water. Thou mayest be pleased also to baptize in- 
 wardly and with the Holy Spirit. All that we ask is in the name 
 and for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. Amen. 
 
 The minister now sprinkles water on the foce of the child, 
 and pronouncing aloud his name, says : — 
 
 " I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and 
 of the Holy Ghost, one God." 
 
 gragfr aftn- liaptism. 
 Follow, we entreat of Thee, Lord, with a blessing that act which 
 we have now, in accordance with Thy direction, performed. Spare 
 E 
 
34 
 
 him, if it be Thy holy will, for a long, happy, and useful existence 
 in this world. Especially, we pray that he may be of the number 
 of those children" who are taught to know the Saviour, and to remem- 
 ber their Creator in the days of their youth. Preserve him from the 
 paths in which destroyers go. Compass him about with Thy protec- 
 tion as a shield. Be his God during the present life, and his por- 
 tion throughout the ages of eternity. 
 
 We thank Thee for Thy goodness shown to the mother, in that 
 
 Thou hast spared her life, prolonged her days, and enabled a living 
 
 mther to look upon the face of a living child. May her heart be 
 
 lifted up to Thee in gratitude and praise, and may the life that has 
 
 been spared be afresh devoted to the promotion of Thy glory. 
 
 Bless both parents in all their interests, temporal and spiritual. 
 Especially may their souls prosper and be in health. May they be 
 heirs together of the grace of life, keeping the unity of the Spirit in 
 the bond of peace and righteousness of life. 
 
 More especially, at this time, we beseech of Thee, Lord, that 
 Thou wouldst enable the father of this child faithfully to discharge 
 the solemn vows which be has taken on behalf of the pledge of affec- 
 tion which Thou hast given to him. May he seek to train up this 
 little one for Thyself. Give him the requisite grace and wisdom ; 
 and as the fruit of his efforts and prayers, may his child, not only 
 as now, become a member of Thy Church visible upon earth, but also 
 become a member of that holy and spiritual community, of whom the 
 Lord Jesus Christ is the risen and exalted head. 
 
 Saviour ! who hast compassion upon the lambs of the fold. Thou 
 good Shepherd, who slumberest not nor sleepest ! to Thee we com- 
 mend all the young of this congregation. Take them, we beseech 
 Thee, under Thy guidance. Touch their heai'ts, and incline them 
 early to embrace Thy Service. 
 
 Impress upon all of us, Lord, that, as we have been admitted 
 into Thy Church by the ordinance of baptism, and bear the name of 
 the Lord Jesus Christ, so we are called upon to put on Christ. May 
 He be formed in us the hope of glory. May we be crucified with 
 Him to the world, and, as risen with Him, seek the things that are 
 hove, where He sitteth at Thy right hand. ^ umber us with Thy 
 eaints who shall attain to glory everlasting. May we be washed in 
 His blood, be animated by His Spirit, and reflect His image: and 
 to Thee be glory and praise ascribed, world without end. Amen. 
 
35 
 
 The Westminster Directory and the practice of the Chureli 
 of Scotland are at variance with Avhatever can be construed as 
 having the remotest tendency to superstition. No prayer is 
 offered at the grave. No passage of Scripture is read. But it 
 is usual for the assembled mourners to engage in prayer 
 before the body is removed from the house in which the 
 deceased expired ; and, if more than one clergyman be pre- 
 sent, two prayers are sometimes offered, — one before, and the 
 other after the distribution, by attendants, of the customary 
 refreshment handed round to those who are inclined to par- 
 take of it. We give, however, here, only a general prayer 
 suited to such occasions : — 
 
 Prager. 
 
 Lord, our heavenly Father ! we would ever approach Thee 
 under a deep sense of the purity, truth, and justice which are 
 characteristic of Him with whom we have to do. Met together in 
 the house of mourning, and having received another solemn lesson 
 fitted to remind us of our mortality, we pray of Thee to solemnise 
 our hearts. 
 
 Man, though he be in honour, abideth iiot. Unnumbered arc 
 the dangers we are exposed to, and many are thd diseases by which 
 we are subject to be attacked. Our breath is in our nostrils. We 
 dwell in cottages of clay, and are liable to be crushed even as before 
 the moth. Here, assuredl}?-, we have no continuing city or place of 
 abode, and, ere long, the place that now knows us shall know us no 
 more for ever. 
 
 Yet, just and true are all Thy ways, Thou King of saints ! 
 Death reigns in the world as the consequence of sin ; no man can 
 save himself, or redeem his brother. His footstep enters into lordly 
 halls as well as into poor men's dwellings. His blow often smites 
 the cherished of our hearts. The young and old, the apparently 
 robust and infirm, ax-e alike exposed to the ravages of this destroyer. 
 
 But we bless Thee, heavenlv Father, that Jesus Christ hath 
 abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light in 
 his Gospel ; that u])on the darkness of the sepulchre He hath shed 
 a cheering lustre, who is Himself the first fruits of them that sleep ; 
 that He arose, a conqueror from the grave ; finished the work given 
 
36 
 
 Him to do; and is now exalted, a Prince and Saviour, to give re- 
 pentance to Israel and the remission of sins ; so that if the wages of 
 sin be death, the gift of God is eternal life through our Lord and 
 Saviour Jesus Christ. 
 
 We praise and bless Thee, Lord for this reviving hope ; that 
 we are called to look upon a suffering, risen, and ascended Redeemer ; 
 a great High Priest, who is touched with a feeling of our infirmi- 
 ties ; who wept at Lazarus' grave ; who sympathises with the woes 
 and sufferings of humanity; and is a Friend that sticketh closer 
 than a brother. 
 
 Met in the house of mourning, we commend to Thee a bereaved 
 family. Thou hast entered this dwelling and vindicated Thy pre- 
 rogative to take life away ; teaching them and us that the dust 
 must return to dust, and the spirit go to Him who gave it. In 
 their distress, may they be led to the abiding and sufficient ground 
 of consolation ; and, by the sadness of the countenance, may the 
 heart be made better. Sustain them under the pressure of this 
 blow ; and enable them to say, Father, not our will, but Thine be 
 done : Shall we receive good at the hand of the Lord, and not also 
 submit to that which seemeth evil ? Enable them to look forward 
 to the glory which is to be revealed, and, in faith, to anticipate that 
 time when the grave shall give up its dead, the corruptible put on 
 incorruption, and the now dying frame be clothed with the full 
 honours of immortality. 
 
 The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law ; but, 
 thanks be to God, who giveth the victory through Jesus Christ ; 
 whose servant heard a voice proclaiming, Blessed are the dead that 
 die in the Lord : yea, saith the Spirit, they rest from their labours, 
 and their works do follow them. I am He that liveth, and was 
 dead ; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, and have the keys of 
 hell and of death. 
 
 Enable thy servants, in faith and love, to look unto Jesus the 
 Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world, and to antici- 
 pate His second coming with hope and expectation, when the voice 
 of the archangel and the trump of God shall announce that time 
 shall be no more ; and when Jesus shall appear, to be glorified in 
 his saints, and admired of all that have believed. 
 
 While we pray that Thou wouldst be pleased to comfort those 
 who are most directly concerned in this visitation, teaching them 
 to profit by it, we beseech Thee also to impress upon us all a sense 
 of frailty and a feeling of dependance. Man that is bom of woman 
 
is but of few days aiul full of trouble. He often walketh in vaiu 
 show, and disquieteth himself in vain. Teach us to live as those 
 should do, whose days are numbered, yea, who know not what an 
 hour may bring forth. ^lay we live with our loins girt and our 
 lamps bm-ning, prepared to meet and welcome the bridegroom's 
 summons ; our hope resting on the sure foundation ; our lives devoted 
 to the service of the Redeemer. May we use the world as not 
 abusing it, kno\ving that the fashion of it passeth away. Coveting 
 earnestly the best gifts, and reconciled to Thee through Jesus 
 Christ, may we have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of 
 darkness, but put on the whole armour of light ; being stedfast, 
 unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord ; seeking 
 the city which hath foundations, and remembering that we are 
 strangers and sojourners before Thee, as all our fathers were. 
 
 We thank Thee for the comfort and support often experienced by 
 Thy people when they were called upon to pass through the valley 
 of the shadow of death, and found that the everlasting arms were 
 around them, and that by Thee they were conducted to rest. May 
 we live the life and die the death of the righteous, "When the sum- 
 mons comes to ourselves, may we be enabled, with Thy servant, to 
 say, I know in whom I have believed. I have finished the course, 
 and kept the faith : henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of 
 righteousness. 
 
 Sustain us, Lord, by Thy mighty power. Quicken us, that 
 we may call upon Thy name. In the land of the living, we would 
 praise Thee : And in the time of disease, at the hour of death, and 
 at the day of judgment, have mercy upon us, for Christ Jesus' sake. 
 Amen. 
 
 A prayer of tliis description, of course, varies according to 
 the particular circumstances of the family bereaved. The 
 preceding form is meant to be suggestive of truths adapted 
 to the occasion. 
 
38 
 
 MORNING PRAYER. 
 
 S)at)batfi .^Forenoon Sierbice 
 
 PSALM. 
 
 Almighty and most gracious God, who in six days didst create 
 the heavens and the earth, and, as an example to Thine offspring, 
 and designing their privilege and benefit, didst rest from Thy works 
 on the seventh day, and sanctify it ; help us now to approach Thee 
 with solemnity and reverence. While we draw near with our mouths 
 and honour Thee with our lips, assuming the appearance of worship- 
 pers in Thy presence ; forbid that the hearts of any of us should be 
 estranged, or that our thoughts should wander upon the mountains 
 of vanity. 
 
 We adore Thee as the living and true God, as the King eternal, 
 immortal, and invisible, as the source of life from whom all things 
 proceed, and on whom all continually depend. Around us we observe 
 manifold traces of power, wisdom, and goodness. The heavens are 
 Thine, Thou hast made them bright with Thy glory. The earth is 
 Thine. Thou imposest bounds on the sea which it cannot overpass ; 
 hast weighed the mountains in scales, and the hills in balances. 
 Yet whilst Thou art the Father of light, without variableness or 
 shadow of turning ; whilst Thou reckonest the host of heaven, and 
 callest thera by their names ; Thou turnest unto every one that is 
 humble and of contrite spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble and 
 the hearts of the contrite. 
 
 Help us to order our speech aright when we bow ourselves before 
 Thee. We come as Thy dependent offspring, early cast upon Thy 
 bounty, who hast cared for us. Dangers have surrounded our daily 
 path, but the Lord has been our helper. Many have been removed, but 
 we ai'e still spared. Some of us may have been raised from what was 
 apparently the bed of death. Others can remember peculiar interposi- 
 tions occm*ring in Thy providence. Thus far hast Thou brought us 
 all along the journey of life ; and we may well say, Bless the Lord 
 our souls, and forget not all his benefits. The Lord has done 
 great things for us, on account of which we are glad. To Thee we 
 owe all we have and all that we can enjoy. Gi*eat and marvellous 
 are Thy works, Lord God Almighty : just and true are Thy ways, 
 Thou King of Saints ! 
 
39 
 
 We adore thee for the mercies of creation and providence, and 
 would render the humble tribute of our praise, — remembering more 
 particularly the surpassing evidence of Thy goodness shown to the 
 needy and undone, — the guilty and polluted, — displayed in that 
 scheme of redemption on which angels look with adoring wonder, 
 but which specially refers to sinners of our race. We praise and 
 raagnity Thy name, that when justice called for punishment, mercy 
 interfered ; that when the covenant entered into wiih our first par- 
 ents had been violated, the purpose of divine mercy was revealed, 
 and instead of our being left to meet the doom that had been merit- 
 ed, a Saviour was predicted — a Deliverer appeared, who, while think- 
 ing it not robbery to be equal with God, yet made himself of no 
 reputation, took upon him the form of a servant, and became obe- 
 dient unto death, even the death of the cross — who magnified the 
 law and made it honourable — finished the work that was given Him 
 to do — has ascended to the right hand of the Majesty on high, and is 
 now our Advocate and Intercessor within the veil. 
 
 May we, Lord, be accepted in the beloved —in Christ Jesus who 
 assumed our nature. May we see in Him our Great High Priest, and 
 the model and pattern of His people. We bless Thee, God, who 
 hadst compassion on us in our lost, undone condition. Thee, Re- 
 deemer, who didst not despise the virgin's womb, Thee, Holy 
 Spirit, whom Jesus promised to His disciples. Father, Son, and 
 Holy Spirit, one God, Thy help we entreat, and for Thy grace we 
 pray. 
 
 May we feel that we are bound to the Lord Jesus by ties of no 
 ordinary obligation. May we confide in His sacrifice, hear His 
 voice, and be conformed to His example. Raise us, Father, from 
 the death of trespasses and sins, that we may walk with Thee in 
 newness of life. Open our eyes that we may see w^onderful things 
 out of Thy law, and enlarge our hearts that we may walk in the 
 way of Thy commandments. May we be found in^Christ, who is made 
 unto His people, wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption, 
 and give ourselves up to Him who gave himself for us, that He might 
 redeem us from all iniquity, and purify to himself a peculiar people, 
 zealous of good works. May we be sanctified by the indwelling of 
 the Spirit, and be prepared for beholding Thy face in glory. Work 
 in us to will and to do of Thy good pleasure, and enable us to give 
 all diligence in the pursuit of heavenly blessings, and the attainment 
 of a present deliverance from the power of sin, and the love and prac- 
 tice of iniquity. 
 
40 
 
 We need the wisdom that cometh from above, for it is not in man 
 to direct his steps aright ; while, tliough the spirit should he in a 
 measure willing, yet the flesh is weak. Enlighten our understand- 
 ings, we beseech Thee, God. Renew our wills. Sanctify our 
 hearts. Raise us above the fear of man — the ensnaring influence of 
 the world — and guard us against the malice and power of our spi- 
 ritual adversary ; that, not walking in darkness, we may participate 
 in the light of life. Keep our affections from the love of idols ; 
 our characters from the stains of vice ; our profession from the ap- 
 pearance of evil ; and may our whole spirit, soul, and body be pre- 
 served blameless until the coming of Christ Jesus. Help us to use 
 the world as not abusing it, to occupy the talents committed to our 
 stewardship, and to redeem the time. May we walk in wisdom to- 
 wards those that are without, and with kindness to those that are 
 within — doing good to all as we have opportunity, especially to those 
 who are of the household of faith. 
 
 Met to praise and bless Thy name ; asssembled on the first day 
 of the week in honour of the Redeemer, we plead for the blessing of 
 Him who is the King and Head of the Church. May our assembling 
 together be profitable. Send forth, Lord, Thy light and Thy 
 truth. Enable thy servant faithfully to declare the message from 
 Thy word, and enable this people to hear with the earnest desire of 
 deriving profit from his message. 
 
 Be with us in reading a portion of Thy word. Accept of the 
 tribute of our praises, and hear the voice of our supplications, which 
 we offer to Thee, in the name of Christ Jesus, our Advocate and 
 Mediator. Amen. 
 
 BEADING OF A PASSAGE OF SCRIPTURE. 
 THE lord's prayer. 
 LECTURE OR SERMON. 
 CONCLUDING PRAYER. 
 
 Follow with thy blessing, Lord, the service in which we have 
 now been engaged. May the fruit be unto holiness, and the end 
 everlasting life. Awaken the unconcerned. Guide such as would 
 enquire after the way to Zion, and make us all to feel the infinite 
 importance of knowing Thee, the only true God and Jesus Christ 
 whom Thou hast sent, whom to know is life eternal. 
 
 We thank Thee for all the means of Grace which Thou hast in- 
 stituted — for the word, sacraments, and prayer. Let Thy word have 
 free cause and be glorified. May sinners be turned from the error 
 
41 
 
 of their ways, and the disobedient unto tlie wisdom of the just. 
 Revive Thy work in the midst of us, Lord. Make bare Thy 
 holy arm, and grant us times of refreshing from Thy presence. 
 
 Bless those now before Thee in all their interests, temporal and 
 spiritual : especially may their souls prosper and be in health. 
 
 Bless Thy whole church, we beseech Thee— all who worship the 
 Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity and truth. May grace, mercy, and 
 peace be multiplied on them all ; and bless, we entreat Thee also, 
 that portion of Thy Son's church with which we are connected. Be 
 as a wall of fire around our Zion, and the glory in the midst of her. 
 Clothe her priests with salvation, and let her saints and people shout 
 for joy. 
 
 We give Thee thanks, Lord, for what of Thy goodness we have 
 at this time enjoyed. Dismiss with I'hy blessing, after we have 
 anew sung to Thy praise. Be with us during the interval of wor- 
 ship, and come up with Thy servant and people in the afternoon. — 
 All that we ask is in the name of Jesus. Amen. 
 
 CONCLUDING PSALM OR PARAPHRASE. 
 THE BLESSING. 
 
 The Grace of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, the love of 
 God and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with us all, now and 
 ever. Amen. 
 
 afternoon Serb iff- 
 
 PSALM. 
 PRAYER. 
 
 Lord ! We come before Thee, at this time, impressed with 
 a sense of Thy glorious and awful majesty. Who is a God like 
 unto Thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, continually doing 
 wonders ? The gods of the heathen are but dumb idols : mouths 
 have they, but they speak not ; ears, but they hear not ; hands, but 
 they handle not ; feet, but they walk not : they that made them are 
 like unto them, so is every one that trusteth in them. But Thou 
 art the eternal and self-existent Jehovah, who doest according to 
 Thy will in the armies of heaven and among the inhabitants of the 
 earth ; who searchest the hearts and triest the reins of the children 
 of men. Thou art clothed with honour and majesty ; Thou coverest 
 thyself with light as with a garment ; Thou art the Father of light, 
 without variableness or shadow of turning. The heavens are thine. 
 Thou hast made them bright with Thy glory ; the earth also is 
 thine, it was brought into being by the word of thine almighty 
 
42 
 
 power. These, the works of Thy hand, shall perish, but Thou shall 
 endure ; yea, all of them shall wax old as a garment, and as a ves- 
 ture shalt Thou change them, and they shall be changed ; but Thou 
 art the same, and Thy years shall have no end. The time is com- 
 ing when the firmament above us, and the earth beneath, shall be 
 burnt up ; but none can hide himself in secret places fi'om Thy sight, 
 who art not far from any one of us. Whither can we go from Thy 
 presence, who art unsearchable in Thy judgments, who in Thy ways 
 art past finding out ? 
 
 When we consider our state and condition before Thee, to us be- 
 long shame and confusion of face. We have sinned before heaven, 
 and in Thy sight, and are no more worthy to be called Thy children. 
 Of old Thou didst create man in thine image, and after thine 
 own likeness ; Thou didst endow him with sovereignty over the 
 beasts of the field and the fowls of the air ; Thou didst admit him 
 to converse with Thyself, and furnish him with all that could pro- 
 mote the happiness of his being. But man, being in honour, abode 
 not : how has the gold become dim, and the most fine gold been 
 changed ! By one man sin has entered into the world, and death 
 by sin ; and so death hath passed upon all, for that all have sinned. 
 We lie beneath the curse of a broken law ; by nature we are 
 subject to the displeasure of the Lord of heaven and earth. The 
 very ground has been cursed because of the disobedience and apos- 
 tasy of man. In the mortality which reigns around, we see the fear- 
 ful consequences of sin ; and the depravity of our hearts attests the 
 working of its poison. We were shapen in iniquity, and are a people 
 of unclean lips. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, 
 and the truth is not in us. Naturally, our understandings are dark- 
 ened, our hearts are estranged, our wills are perverse ; we are alien- 
 ated fi'om the life of God through the ignorance that is in us ; the 
 imaginations of the thoughts of our hearts are evil continually. We 
 have followed after lying vanities ; have forsaken the fountain of 
 living water for the broken cistern, which can hold no water. Un- 
 faithful stewards, we have not improved the talents entrusted to us ; 
 not liking to retain Thee in our knowledge, we have suffered other 
 lords and gods to have dominion over us, and have not sought the 
 promotion of Thy glory as the great object of our existence. 
 
 We praise Thee, Lord, that Thou hast not dealt with us after 
 our sins, nor rewarded us according to our iniquities ; that Thou 
 waitest to be gracious, and art in Christ Jesus reconciling the world 
 unto Thyself, not imputing unto men their trespasses ; unwilling 
 
43 
 
 that any should perish, but that all should come unto Thee and live. 
 This is Thy language to the sons of men : " Conie now, and let us 
 reason together: though j^our sins be as scarlet, they shall be white 
 as snow; though they be red as crimson, they shall be as wool." 
 Thou hast invited the labouring and heavy-laden to come unto 
 Christ, that they may find rest for their souls. purge ns with 
 hyssop, and we shall be clean ; yea, wash us, and we shall be whiter 
 than snow. May we be justified freely by Thy grace through the re- 
 demption that is in Christ Jesus ; may the spark of divine love be 
 kindled in our cold and insensate hearts. Begin the good work in 
 us if we are still unhappily strangers to newness of life; carry it 
 on to perfection Avhere it is begun. May He who brought again 
 from the dead the Lord Jesus Christ, that great Shepherd of the 
 sheep, by the working of His holy Spirit, enlighten our minds, and 
 sanctify our hearts ! May we be united to Christ by a true and 
 living fiiith, Avhich worketh by love, and purifieth the heart, and 
 overcometh the world ; so may we bear fruit unto holiness, and 
 let the end be everlasting life. As risen with Ilim, who is 
 exalted far above all principalities and powers, having received a 
 name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus eveiy 
 knee should bow, and every tongue confess that He is Lord, to the 
 glory of God the Father ; may we seek the things that are above, 
 where He sitteth at the right hand of the Majesty on high ; having 
 been washed in His precious blood, may we devote ourselves to 
 His service, in newness of life ; feeling, in some measure, the con- 
 straining power of His love, that so we may adorn the doctrine of 
 God our Saviour, by a life and conversation becoming the gospel, 
 remembering that He who called us is holy, and has left us an 
 example that we should follow His steps. May others take know- 
 ledge of us, that we have been with Jesus, and have learned 
 of Him ; that we have^ imbibed His Spirit, and are seeking to 
 copy His example. May we continually bear about with us His 
 dying, that the life also of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal 
 bodies. Make Thy grace sufficient for us, and perfect Thy strength 
 in our weakness ; may we be strong in the Lord, and in the power 
 of His might. Enable us to walk circumspectly ; not as fools, but 
 as wise, redeeming the time, knowing that our days upon earth are 
 few and evil, and that death and eternity are at hand ; ready for the 
 coming of the Son of Man, and seeking to be partakers of the inheri- 
 tance of the saints in light ; so that, when He appeareth again in 
 power and glory, when every eye shall see Him, and all must stand 
 
44 
 
 before the throne, we may be of the number of those to whom shall 
 be addressed these gracious words, Come, ye blessed of my Father, 
 inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the 
 world ; — that having sought to sen-e Thee in our day and genera- 
 tion upon earth, we may be admitted, having washed our robes and 
 made them white in the blood of the Lamb, to serve and praise 
 Thee for ever in the temple above ; where the Lamb that is in the 
 midst of the throne shall feed His people, and lead them to living 
 fountains of waters, and God himself shall wipe away all tears from 
 their eyes. 
 
 Grant Thy blessing upon thine own ordinances ; give us, we im- 
 })lore Thee, the teaching of the Spirit, who can teach savingly and to 
 profit. Help our manifold infirmities. Let Thy word come with'power 
 and efficacy to all our hearts. Enable Thy servant to spe^k, and this 
 people to hear, as for eternity, as it becometh the oracles of the living 
 God to be spoken and heard ; for all that we ask is in the name of 
 Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Amen. 
 
 KEADING OF A PASSAGE OF SCRIP FCBE. 
 
 DISCOUKSE. 
 
 COXCLmiNG PKATEK. 
 
 Lord, we desire to offer up our thanksgivings unto Thee for all 
 the mercy and grace which Thou hast made to pass before us; and to 
 bless Thee for the opportunity which we have now enjoyed of read- 
 ing and meditating upon Thy word. We praise Thee for the 
 manifestation of the riches of Thy mercy in our Lord and Saviour 
 Jesus Christ, for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. 
 Forbid that it should be to our condemnation that, while light has 
 come into the world, we should love the darkness rather than the 
 light, because our deeds are evil; that, despising the riches of 
 Thy long-sufiering and forbearance, we should be treasuring up 
 wrath against the day of t^ rath, and revelation of Thy righteous 
 judgment. May we see the beauty and excellency of the Sa^•iou^ ; 
 and be drawn to him by the constraining power of his love ; feeling 
 that if one died for all, then were all dead, and that lie died that we 
 might walk no more after the flesh, but after the Spirit, ilay we 
 seek to follow the Captain of our salvation whithersoever He may 
 load us ; walk as the children of the light and of the day, and 
 adorn the doctrine of our God and Saviour by a life and conversation 
 becoming the gospel, as those who are not their own, but bought with 
 a price, and who would devote themselves to His service, who has 
 called sinners out of darkness into marvellous light. Vouchsafe 
 
45 
 
 unto U3 continual supplies of grace and strength, out of the fulness 
 that is in Christ Jesus, that we may be enabled more and more to 
 put off the old man, which is corrupt, according to the deceitlul 
 hearts ; and being renewed in the spirit of our minds, may put on 
 the new man, which is created in righteousness and true holiness ; 
 having the power of sin more and more subdued in us, — our souls 
 more refined from the dross of earthly corruption, — our hearts more 
 weaned from the world, — our affections more steadfastly fixed on 
 the things that are above ; that we may walk with one another 
 in love, as Christ also loved us, and gave Himself for us, that he 
 might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify imto Himself a pecu- 
 liar people, zealous of good works. 
 
 Let Thy way, Lord, be known on earth. Thy saving health 
 among all nations. Let Thy kingdom come, and Thy will be done. 
 Give Thy Son the heathen for an inheritance, and the uttermost 
 parts of the world for a possession, so that the advent of that 
 period may be hastened when the kingdoms of this world shall be- 
 come the kingdoms of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. 
 
 May a blessing rest on the church universal, on all who love the 
 Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity and u-uth. Let grace, mercy, and 
 peace be multiplied upon all its members. Add daily to the num- 
 ber of such as shall be saved. 
 
 Bless, we also pray Thee, that portion of Thy Son's church with 
 which we are more particularly connected. Be as a wall of fire 
 around our Zion, aud as the glory in the midst of her. Clothe her 
 priests with salvation, and let her saints and people shout aloud for 
 
 Let Thy favour rest upon our native land. Abundantly bless 
 Thy servant, our gracious Sovereign, Queen Victoria. Grant that 
 she may be long spared to sway the sceptre over a free, loyal, and 
 religious people. Bless the Prince Consort, the Prince of Wales, 
 and all the other members of the royal family. As they are 
 highly exalted in earthly station, may they improve the talents 
 committed to their stewardship and attain to a crown of righteous- 
 ness that shall never fade away. 
 
 Bless all who occupy places of autboiity under the Queen and 
 over us. May the wise and faithful ever be around om* Sovereign's 
 throne, men who fear Thee, and have the good of this country 
 sincerely at heart. Overrule the deliberations of Parliament, and 
 guide them to the adoption of those measures which shall be condu- 
 cive to Thy gli.n-y. Bless the nobles, the judges, and the magis- 
 
46 
 
 trates, endowing thera with the wisdom which cometh from above 
 and is profitable to direct. 
 
 ''' Let Thy blessing rest upon this parish and congregation. 
 Strengthen and direct Thy servant, that he may discharge with 
 diligence and fidelity the duties of the sacred calling. Bless the 
 eldership, and the other members of this flock, that they walk 
 before Thee in holiness and righteousness. Bless them in their 
 basket and store, — in their pursuits of lawful industry, — especially 
 may their souls prosper and be in health. 
 
 Relieve, we beseech of Thee, the wants of the poor. Be a Father 
 to the fatherless ; the widow's help ; the stranger's shield ; and the 
 orphan's stay. Guide the young that they may seek the paths of 
 righteousness. Comfort and uphold the aged ; and may those who 
 are blessed with health and strength devote themselves more 
 ' thoroughly to Thy service. 
 
 Now dismiss us, we beseech Thee, with Thy blessing, after we 
 have again sung to Thy praise. Be with us during the interval of 
 worship. Come up with Thy servant and people in the afternoon : 
 and let grace, mercy and peace be multiplied upon us, for the sake 
 of Christ Jesus, our strength and Redeemer. Amen. 
 
 PSALM OR PARAPHRASE. 
 THE BLESSING. 
 
 Now may the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, 
 keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and 
 of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, and the blessing of God Almighty, 
 the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be with you and abide 
 with vou for ever. Amen. 
 
47 
 
 Communion ^aljbatf) «crtiicfs. 
 
 A Communion Sabbath in Scotland is a day of much interest, 
 more particularly in rural districts, for in to^^■us there are 
 too many who care comparatively little about religious obser- 
 vances. It is now usually celebrated twice a-year ; and, pre- 
 viously to the dispensation of the ordinance, notice is given by 
 the minister of the parish, on a previous Sabbath, of a day or 
 days upon which he will be foimd ready to converse -vrith those 
 who desire to communicate for the first time. Many mini- 
 sters have also theu* Scriptm'al classes, or those especially 
 preparatory for the ordinance. The latter should be held for 
 a succession of weeks previously, and are, in many cases, found 
 to be extremely useful. On all occasions the dispensation of 
 the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, in the Established 
 Church is preceded by the observance of a day of humihation 
 and prayer, usually, except local causes prevent, held upon a 
 Thursday. A preparatory-sermon, with accompanying devo- 
 tional exercises, is also preached upon the Satm'day before 
 Communion, as well as a thanksgiving sermon upon the 
 lEonday foUovring. 
 
 In the estimate of not a few ministers and members of the 
 Chm'ch, it is a question whether the Sacrament of the Lord's 
 Supper should not be more frequently observed, and whether 
 it is necessary to have aU the preceding and subsequent diets 
 of worsliip, which have hitherto been held ; for it is noto- 
 rious that in many parishes there is both on the Satm-day 
 and jMonday a ver}^ scanty attendance, in no small degree 
 caused by the necessary occupation of many members of the 
 congTcgation by secular duty. Some there are who think 
 that there is a spirit of formalism connected with these pre- 
 liminary arrangements ; and that, if Christians be animated 
 by a proper spirit, they do not stand in need of so great an 
 amount of preparation before sitting down at the Lords 
 table ; a summons which should ever be congenial to their 
 spirits, — a sernce which is fitted to yield both profit and 
 delight. 
 
 s 
 
48 
 
 We do not give any specimens of forms of worship, either 
 for the day of hmniliation, for the Saturday, or for the 
 Monday. The requirements of the two former services will 
 readily he imagined ; and the discourse upon the Monday 
 morning as upon the Sabbath evening will appropriately turn 
 upon some practical topic, — touching upon the duties wliich 
 the followers of Christ are called upon to observe, — or upon 
 the hopes which, if His true disciples, they are warranted to 
 entertain. De\dating, however, so far from our previous 
 plan, we shall lay before our readers, — beheving that it may be 
 of use to some of the younger clergy, and not unprofitable to 
 aged and infirm Christians, in their retirement, — a full narrative 
 of the services of the Communion Sabbath, as usually observed 
 in the Presbyterian Church of Scotland. The service com- 
 mences as upon the ordinary diets of worship, by the presiding 
 minister, who is generally assisted by one or more of his 
 bretlu-eri in com'se of the subsequent services, announcing a 
 Psalm to be sung by the congregation. He then offers up 
 prayer in some such manner as follows ; though it may be 
 remarked that, as the Couununion service is in a measure 
 distinct from the ordinary Sabbath worsliip, and except as 
 following close upon the other, is a cHstinct and separate 
 service, not more than an incidental reference is in this case 
 required to give unity and consistency to the services of the 
 day. Ordinarily, however, and it is to be hoped, often, the 
 minds and hearts of both minister and people are deeply 
 impressed by a sense of the solemnity of the transaction in 
 which they are mutually to be afterwards engaged. 
 
49 
 
 jTorcnoon Salibatl) Scrbtcf. 
 
 INTRODUCTOKY PUAYEB, 
 
 Father of mercies, and God of consolation ! God and Father 
 of our Lord and Saviour Jesua Christ ! Having now entered the 
 courts of Thy house, we would worship in reverence towards Thy 
 holy temple, heseeching Thee to listen to our hearts' desire, and to 
 save us according to Thy truth and mercy. We appi-oach Thee, to 
 whom all flesh are invited to come, as the only true and living God, 
 through the one Mediator, Jesus Christ the righteous. May we not 
 come before Thee with wandering minds, with souls slightly affected 
 by a sense of Thy greatness and of our unworthiness, but with true 
 hearts, and with filial confidence, having our souls sprinkled from 
 an e^'il conscience, and our bodies washed as with pure water. 
 
 Thou art the living and Eternal One, highly exalted above our 
 loftiest conceptions, and able to do exceeding abundantly above 
 what we can ask or think. Thou art glorious in holiness, fearful in 
 praises, continually doing wonders. All creation reflects Thy glory ; 
 the heavens and the earth bear witness to Thy perfections. Thou or- 
 derest all events wisely and well, causing all things to work together 
 for good to those who are called according to Thy purpose and 
 grace ; and in the scheme of redemption we are called upon to mar- 
 vel at the richness of Thy loving-kindness shown to the creatures of 
 the dust. 
 
 We are, Lord, not only frail but guilty creatiires. We ac- 
 knowledge that we are involved in the apostacy of our first parents, 
 and have often given evidence that our hearts are deceitful above 
 all things, and desperately wicked. Amidst the traces of Thy glory 
 which the universe exhibits, we have forgotten Thee. Receiving un- 
 numbered benefits, we have not thought of the hand by which they 
 were bestowed. Endowed witli a reasonable and immortal nature, we 
 have been far more busied in providing for the life that now is, than 
 for that which is to come. So situated as to exert influence over 
 others, we have forgotten the law and the commandment of love, 
 have been unmindful of responsibility thence arising, and have been 
 living to ourselves. Admonished that sin is justly most oftensive 
 in Thy sight, and the object of abhorrence to Him with whom we 
 have to do ; yet we have given way to its commission in secret, if 
 we have refrained from grosser and open acts of delinquency and 
 provocation. Having talents given us which ought to have been 
 Q 
 
50 
 
 improved, we have, alas ! been unprofitable stewards. Admonished 
 by instances wherein the night that must descend has come speedily 
 upon others, we have still been slothful and inactive. Although 
 aroused to momentary enquiry and consideration, yet we have again 
 been prone to relapse into slumber and indifference, as though our 
 house would continue for ever, and our strength not be weakened 
 away. 
 
 But we come before Thee, not less persuaded of our own unworthi- 
 ness and folly, than of the riches of Thy grace and mercy. We 
 believe — help Thou our unbelief — that thine illuminating and 
 quickening Spirit is not straitened ; that He can draw us to Thyself 
 by uniting us to Christ ; so that, utterly needy, we may be enriched 
 out of his fulness ; and naked, be clothed upon with Ilis righteous- 
 ness ; and polluted, may wash in that fountain which has been 
 opened for sin and uncleanness. As the branch cannot bear fruit 
 in itself, unless it abide in the vine, neither can we but as abiding 
 in Him. ' We beseech Thee then to draw us by the cords of love. 
 Let thy promises find in us a response ; may Thy threatenings make 
 us afraid ; and, under a sense of great and pressing necessity, may 
 we rest upon that covenant which is well ordered in all things, and 
 sure. 
 
 Take Thou away our iniquity, and receive us graciously and love 
 us freely. Enable us to hate sin as the cause of our misery, and to 
 love righteousness as that new and better way in which thou 
 wouldst have us walk. May we set our affections on the things 
 that are above, and be raised superior to the influence of a present 
 evil world. Let the love of Christ constrain us, and may we be 
 animated by a spirit of new obedience. 
 
 Enlarge our acquaintance with revealed ttuth. May we hide 
 Thy word in our hearts, that we may not offend against Thee ; and 
 let Thy statutes be our counsellors in this the land of our pilgrimage. 
 Succour us in the time of weakness ; direct us in the period of 
 uncertainty. Stablish and confirm us in every good word or work. 
 May we drink more deeply of our Master's Spirit, and arise and follow 
 the Captain of salvation whithersoever He leads, taking the shield 
 of faith, the helmet of salvation, the sword of the Spirit ; having our 
 loins girt about with truth ; and our feet shod with the preparation of 
 the gospel of peace. And as there has been revealed to us the pro- 
 spect of that land where all impurity and imperfection shall for ever 
 be done away — as we are called to look for a city which hath foun- 
 dations, whose builder and maker is God, oh ! may we strive more 
 
51 
 
 diligently that our calling and election may be sure ; desire to ad- 
 vance from one degree of grace unto an(>tber, and seek to be more 
 tliorougbly fiirnisbed unto every good word and work. 
 
 Be with us in all the exercises in which we ai*e to be engaged 
 this day, and hear the voice of our earnest supplications, for the 
 Redeemer's sake. Amen. 
 
 A chapter of Scripture is usually next read, descriptive 
 either of the sufferings of Clirist, or hearing upon the suhject 
 of the day's solemnity. After this a second Psahn is sung, 
 the Lord's Prayer, as in ordinary forenoon diets of worship, is 
 appropriately offered up, and the minister proceeds to deliver 
 what, according to technical phraseology, is called the Action 
 iSermon, in which it is expected he will endeavour to stir the 
 hearts and rouse the consciences of his hearers to the best of 
 liis ability. The appended sermon is introduced, lilvc that 
 wliich follows in the evening service, with a view simply of 
 suggesting topics that may not be unuseful on such an occa- 
 sion. It lays no claim to originality of thought, but it is at 
 least not unsuitable. 
 
 rf)E Dcatft of iirfjrtgt. 
 
 ••He bowed liis head aiul giwe up the ghost." — ^t. John xix. 30. 
 
 The transaction referred to, was the most momentous since the be- 
 ginning of the world. To those who were uninstructed regarding 
 the dignity of the Messiah, or the plan of God for the salvation of 
 the guilty, the recital of it might seem only to contain the mention 
 of a common and universal hot. In \new of the spectators wlio 
 looked upon the scene of Calvary, it was the death of one w^ho 
 had been condemned by tlie national tribunal — their verdict con- 
 firmed by the Roman Governor — a verdict which had been carried 
 into eft'oct under circumstances of much aggravation and disgrace. 
 Rut in the conception of every pious and enlightened mind, it sug- 
 gests a subject of wonder and admiration, as displaying infinite love 
 and divine compassion. "When known by the hosts of heaven, it 
 would fill them with amazement, as we are informed, it constitutes 
 a theme of adoring praise and reverent acknowledgment. These 
 " watchers and holy ones '' are spoken of in the book of Revelation, 
 a^ celebrating above the praises of the Lamb, although in His death 
 they are not so directly and immediately concerned as those for 
 whom Jesus " took part of flesh and blood." 
 
52 
 
 An event so constantly spoken of in scripture, brought under our 
 notice in so manj' varied ways, described as having a bearing so im- 
 portant upon the interests of the church on earth, and also as ad- 
 ministering instruction to the church in heaven, merits careful study 
 and devout attention. Let us endeavour, at this time, shortly to 
 consider one or two of the chief purposes, which it is to be viewed 
 as secui-ing, and is adapted to promote. 
 
 I. In the Jirst place, when Jesus " gave up the ghost,'" he died as 
 an atoning sacrifice for the sins of as many as believe in him. 
 
 Scripture tells us that all mankind lay in a condition of degradation 
 and guilt — that they were unable to procure a reversal of the sen- 
 tence whereby they were condemned, or to effect a restoration to the 
 divine favour forfeited through transgression. " In Adam all died." 
 He was the covenant head and representative of His posterity. 
 Nor is it possible to conceive of more favourable circumstances under 
 which human obedience could have been tested, than when, with 
 the full supply of every want accorded, there was but one restriction 
 laid upon the pure and upright being who was formed after the 
 image of his Maker. When, however, our first parents allowed 
 themselves to be overcome through the ingenuity of the tempter, 
 evil entered the world, and its bitter results became apparent. They 
 necessarily incurred the penalty of death, which had been righteously 
 announced as the consequence of transgression. In that act, more- 
 over, scripture declares, and experience attests that their descendants 
 were involved. It rendered necessary the interposition of a Saviour, 
 if the everlasting gates were not to be for ever closed, the way of 
 access to the holiest shut up, and the regions of immortal blessed- 
 ness to continue inaccessible. In ourselves do we not feel prone- 
 ness to what is evil, and aversion to what is good ? Which of us is 
 not naturally disqualified for, and unfitted to endure the presence of a 
 pure and heart- searching God ? Let us consider of what complexion 
 the tenor of our lives has been. How many acts have been 
 committed at variance with the divine authority, and contrary to 
 the precepts of that law which is " holy, just, and good ; " to which 
 this terrific sanction is annexed, " Cursed is every one that continueth 
 not in all things \sTitten in the book of the law to do them." If we 
 are doubtful as to the consequences of transgression, let us observe 
 the altered demeanour of our first parents after they had fallen. No 
 longer do they welcome and desire fellowship with God ; alarm and 
 suspicion have taken possession of their souls. Seeking for protec- 
 tion, full of misgivings, and conscious of impurity, they attempt to 
 
53 
 
 hide in the foliage of the garden. And when the light of heaven is 
 foding from a ruined world, and the time is near that the scenery of 
 Eden is to be wrapped in night, they stand before God guilty^ 
 trembling, wretched. The great gulf of separation is already opened. 
 Their subsequent exile from Paradise was typical of man's un- 
 worthiness of himself to come before the presence of the highest, or 
 to bow before a holy God. 
 
 The impression and influence of this fact, are traceable in the sub- 
 sequent history and proceedings of mankind, great as might b« the 
 ignorance and corruption into which the human race had fallen. In 
 the records of almost every people, we find marks of a priesthood as 
 existing, and of sacrifices as being ofiered, — the latter, not unfre- 
 quently, of a most costly description. Nor do Christians need to be 
 informed that when this rite was devoutly and intelligently per- 
 formed, it was observed in compliance with the divine command, 
 and had reference to the sacrifice ultimately consummated upon 
 Calvary. It was a means intended to foreshadow the great atone- 
 ment that was to be presented in the fulness of time. It pointed to 
 the period when an infinitely nobler victim should be slain ; who 
 " by one offering should for ever perfect them that are sanctified.*' 
 The observances of old might often be performed in ignorance and 
 blindness. Under a dread of the divine displeasure, hecatombs of 
 victims might be sacrificed ; labouring under the sense of guilt, op- 
 pressed by the influence of a gloomy superstition, not unfrequently 
 have altars been stained in Pagan lands even with the blood of human 
 victims. All this, however, was a perversion of the truth, while it 
 bore testimony to the deep and indelible sense of guilt abiding on 
 the mind of man, and to his persuasion that some gift was needed, 
 and some sacrifice required, ere the wrath of the divinity could be 
 considered as appeased. 
 
 This fact, the institutes and observances of the patriarchal and 
 Mosaic dispensations were especially intended and adapted to illus- 
 trate. These were " shadows of better things to come." When, 
 accordingly, the offerer laid his hand upon the victim's head before 
 it was pierced, and the body consigned to the flames — this was 
 meant to illustrate the great and comforting truth of substitution — of 
 guilt transferred from the offending to the innocent — of the burden 
 of iniquity laid upon one who was set apart and chosen for that pur- 
 pose. So, in course of the solemn procedure of the great day of 
 atonement — that whereon, carrying the blood with him — the Jewish 
 High Priest alone entered the holy of holies. When, on that day the 
 
54 
 
 scapegoat was sent by the hands of a fit person to the wilderness, an 
 emblem was otiered of the full and complete deliverance of the peni- 
 tent and contrite ; of the bui-ial of offences, and the carrying of them 
 away into a land of forgetfulness for ever. When, at an earlier 
 j>eriod, the morning of deliverance dawned on Israel after a night in 
 which the divine vengeance had visited every home of their oppres- 
 sors, it was shewn in the protection and security of the families of 
 the chosen people, that the '* angel of the Lord encampeth around 
 them that fear him ; " that they who apply in faith to " the blood 
 of sprinkling,"' which the text calls to our remembrance, shall be 
 safely shielded from harm, when the divine anger visits others vnih 
 the retribution due to their offences. But on such emblems, however 
 graphic, we cannot dw^ll. Here our attention is called to the reality. 
 The text bids us " contemplate our great High Priest,'" even " Jesus, 
 the son of God. From the fact that when Jesus " bowed his head 
 and gave up the ghost," he did so in a peculiar and distinguishing 
 capacitv and relationship, the " decease that was accomplished at 
 Jerusalem,"" appears under an aspect of unspeakable importance to 
 all who are desirous of deliverance from eternal death. Precious 
 was the testimony borne by Christ to the greatness of the Father, 
 and his claims on human love and reverence; full of power and truth 
 was what Jesus said ; illustrious the beauty of his example and the 
 consistency jof his demeanour ; but his atoning death pre-eminently 
 marks him out as the benefactor and the friend. On a reference to 
 scripture, this truth is exhibited in its full consequence. It is spoken 
 of as the great remedial means desired, as the effectual help provided 
 in the counsels of eternity, for the salvation of a multitude whom none 
 can number ; as the fullest and most clear manifestation of the great 
 Jehovah to his subjects, as a God of mercy and compassion ; pro- 
 viding a redemption suited to their circumstances and wants ; prof- 
 fering for the acceptance of faith, a righteousness and obedience 
 entirely spotless, and thus " speaking peace'" to the troubled mind 
 and the distracted conscience. Hence, we can direct the view of the 
 sin-burdened trembler to one who " died the just for the unjust, that 
 he might bring us unto God."' Hence, in answer to the apprehen- 
 sions of the doubting and uncertain, we can speak of Christ as 
 having " finished transgression, made an end of sin, and brought in 
 everlasting righteousness." Hence, when we are called upon to re- 
 buke the uuhumbled, obdurate, and proud — when meeting with those 
 who take pleasure in iniquity and mock at sin — we may deduce a 
 most forcible exhortation against impenitence, and a motive to alarm 
 
55 
 
 fiXKn the cross on which Jesus died ; as exhihiting in his en- 
 durance God's burning indignation against evil, and testifying how- 
 serious the consequences must prove, of rejecting the proposals of 
 forgiveness, and of refusing to listen to that voice by which men are 
 addressed in an utterance combining at once authority and love. 
 
 The importance, in this point of view, of the death of the Lord 
 Jesus, is amply and expressively dwelt npon in Scripture. There 
 we are told that He was " stricken for the oftences " of the people ; 
 that these were '* made to meet on Him," and that He bore " the 
 chastisement of their peace." Such a task no created being was able 
 to sustain ; biit in Jesus the requisite conditions were fulfilled which 
 enabled Him to act as surety of the fallen. The dignity of the di- 
 vine, and the capacity for sufl'ering in the human nature, were in 
 ifim united : acceptance in the sight of God, with requisite compas- 
 sion and sympathy for men. Hence, He stooped from His throne 
 of glory to work out a rescue and provide for their deliverance, even 
 by His toils, agony, and blood. Surely, therefore, unto Him this day's 
 celebration is appropriate. — The text farther reminds us of the truth 
 of what Christ had previously declared — His self-command : " I have 
 power to lay down life, and to take it again." This is a fact of much 
 importance — since thus He was able to present a sufficient sacrifice ; 
 in keeping with which, it is said by the evangelist, that " He gave up 
 the ghost." That, however, could be alleged of no son of 'Adam ; for, 
 on depai-ting from this world, each of them at the precise time fixed, 
 obeyed the Omnipotent"s behest. But the Lord Jesus chose to die ; 
 placed Himself in a situation that admitted of His undergoing this 
 condition of humanity ; after having rendered, as the representative 
 of His people, perfect obedience to the law in their room and stead. 
 At the period mentioned in the text this purpose was accom- 
 plished, and the great work was '■'■finished '' which He had come into 
 the world to do. On Him justice could assert no farther claim. Al- 
 ready, as an earnest of the future, and in the depth of His humilia- 
 tion, He had afforded on the cross an evidence of forgiving power. 
 Now He was ready to commend His Spirit to that Father, the tem- 
 porary averting of whose countenance had recently caused Him such 
 anxiety and grief. Accordingly, we are told, " He bowed His head, 
 and gave up the ghost." The sufferings endured by the Son of Man 
 were ended, and His Spirit was at rest. At that hour, the ascend- 
 ancy of eril was overthrown ; the empire of superstition was totter- 
 ing to its fall. The predicted day had come, when Messiah should 
 " be cut off, but not for Himself." The great propitiation- was com- 
 
56 
 
 pleteJ ; full redemption was " brought in ; " the remission of sins 
 had been purchased by the shedding of His blood, who " gave Him- 
 self a ransom." " It is finished." Jesus, therefore, at this epoch, 
 " bowed His head, and gave up the ghost." 
 
 Admitting that the Lord Jesus died — not as the mere victim of 
 popular animosity, but as an atoning sacrifice, some circumstances that 
 might otherwise have seemed mysterious are accounted for. Instead 
 of the multitude of oblations ofiered from age to age, having been 
 but a prodigal expenditure of suffering and bloodshed, only calcu- 
 lated to inspire gloomy ideas regarding Him who called for such 
 gifts upon the part of man ; these appear to have been intended and 
 adapted to cheer those who must otherwise have been dejected and 
 forlorn — through the continued intimation of a great Deliverer, by 
 whom the " head of the serpent " should be bruised." From this, 
 too, arises an explanation of what might be thought of as the burden- 
 some instructions and minute directions of the Levitical economy ; 
 which are to be viewed as adapted for the use of a peculiar people, 
 who were intended to be instrumental in keeping alive upon earth 
 the faith and knowledge of the Highest, They are also to be con- 
 sidered as a provision designed by divine wisdom for the instruc- 
 tion of future ages. Instead, then, of wondering that One who had 
 often exhibited the possession of superhuman power, and to whom 
 testimony from on high had so repeatedly been borne — should have 
 been permitted to expire by an ignominious death ; while we own 
 that the magnitude of this love surpasses full knowledge and com- 
 prehension ; we trace in the event, the accomplishment and evolution 
 of the great plan of heaven. We see in it what magnifies the divine 
 perfections. We see what urges by the strongest claims to gratitude 
 and submission ; as exhibiting the wondrous truth, that " when we 
 were without strength, Christ died for the ungodly," and gave Him- 
 self as " an offering and a sacrifice of a sweet-smelling savour unto 
 God." 
 
 II. The event spoken of in the text is to be viewed as attesting 
 the Mission and Messiahship of Christ. 
 
 The event was predicted long before it took place, and was brought 
 to pass in a manner clearly shewing a divine appointment. Many 
 circumstances, most unlikely to be conjoined, required to happen in 
 order to its being fulfilled. Was it to be supposed that the Jews, 
 who expected blessings so lofty fi-om the coming of Christ, would, 
 when He appeared — reject His doctrine, revile His person, and de- 
 mand that He should be put to death ? These particulars, however, 
 
67 
 
 had been predicted ; and not one of them failed of being accomplished. 
 It is utterly impossible to find gromid for the pretext of imposture 
 or mistake. The divinity of Jesus is most amply attested. Signs 
 were done by Him which could not have been performed, unless, in 
 the words of Nicodemus, "God were with Him." Who but a per- 
 son invested with a divine commission could perform such miracles — 
 which were wrought before witnesses hostile to His claims and pre- 
 possessed against His doctrines ? Or, ivould the testimony of heaven 
 be given in favour of imposture? When, moreover, the doctrines 
 taught were of the most pure, exalted, and spiritual nature, can it be 
 conceived that any one, not thoroughly convinced of their truth, would 
 have promulgated them ? Unless, too, they were in accordance with 
 the mind and the will of God, would they, under such unfavourable 
 circumstances, have established a tirra hold upon the minds of men, 
 and have led to such conspicuous results ? How unlikely was it, 
 that a system of belief so opposed to the desires and prepossessions 
 of mankind, would have gained ground through such instriunentality 
 as was employed ; or that the attempt would succeed to adduce 
 in support of error such a system of credentials. How could predic- 
 tions so numerous, minute, nay, in not a few instances, apparently 
 contradictory, be harmonized? We may notice this, more particularly, 
 with reference to the event spoken of — the manner of Christ's death, 
 as foretold in ancient prophecy. This involved the departure of 
 the sceptre from Judah, which actually had occurred. His hands and 
 feet were to be pierced, His " vesture to be parted," and this was 
 fulfilled at the period of the crucifixion. He should be " despised 
 and rejected of men," — "a man of sorrows and acquainted with 
 grief; " yet "the Gentiles should come to His light," and "kings 
 to the brightness of His rising." While His countrymen clamom-ed 
 for His death — and that death was brought about, not by a Jewish 
 but a Roman method of inflicting condign punishment ; at the time 
 when He expired, unequivocal evidence was given of the grandeur 
 and importance of the event that had occurred. There were signs 
 in heaven and signs on earth. At the appointed time He rose from 
 the dead, in proof that the efforts of enemies were vain, and that His 
 sacrifice was accepted. Crucified, accordingly, in weakness and 
 shame, He was raised in dignity. His kingdom is destined to out- 
 last every other ; and " of the increase of His power and authority 
 there shall be no end." In answer to every cavil, we have abundant 
 reason for concluding of Christ's death, that it was that of the Lamb 
 of God. This, then, was the peculiar and unparalleled instance of 
 H 
 
58 
 
 devotedness ; for He who so expired was God's own Son. The par- 
 ticulars that led to it had been specified ; His betrayal by a false 
 disciple, the amount by which that treachery was recompensed, and 
 His numbering with transgressors. Amidst the shame of the cross 
 too, His majesty and greatness were still apparent, — resignation to- 
 wards God, with benevolence and good will to men. He is " led as 
 a lamb to the slaughter — and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, 
 60 He opened not His mouth." Vain, but for this, had been the 
 malice and subtlety of His foes. Not a design they harboured but 
 was known to Him. In the exercise of Omnipotence He could have 
 stayed the coming of the " hour ; " but the human race must in that 
 case have been left to perish. To His Omniscient mind the devices 
 and plans adopted were fully known — as their violence might have 
 been baffled. In the exercise, however, of love and pity, He who 
 shall be hereafter manifest as Judge, and in that capacity be attended 
 by the hosts of heaven — consented to be impeached before the tri- 
 bunal of His creatures ; standing there an object of reviling and 
 hatred, He was sentenced to death, even the accursed death of the 
 cross ; He " bowed His head and gave up the ghost," and sealing His 
 testimony with His blood, rendered up His soul to Him that judgeth 
 righteously. Viewing the event in the light of Scripture, consider- 
 ing the emergency that called for it, and the consequences by which 
 it has been followed, are we not constrained to admit, that here is an 
 occurrence most consolatory to His people, as it ought to be alarming 
 to His foes? that thus God declared His love toward us, in that 
 while we were sinners, Christ died for us, to satisfy the claims of a 
 broken law, and permit the divine mercy to be freely, fully, and ef- 
 fectually displayed. 
 
 III. The event spoken of in the text will be found to have had a 
 most decided influence on the position and prospects of mankind, and 
 it was speedily followed by glory and triumph. 
 
 When we reflect upon the multitudes who have founded on the 
 sacrificial and atoning death of Christ, their prospects in time and 
 their hopes with reference to eternity ; when we think that thus the 
 barrier which opposed the sinner's approach to Him who is all pur- 
 ity and light has been removed ; and remember that in consequence 
 of it God has condescended to treat with men, " waiting to be graci- 
 ous," and that the indispensable influences of the Spirit are com- 
 municated ; that " mercy and truth have met together, righteous- 
 ness and peace have embraced each other; " surely we must admit 
 that it ought to be regarded as fraught with the most signal bless- 
 
59 
 
 ings to His people. It is adapted to turn them from the love and 
 practice of iniquity, and to overcome the enmity of the carnal heart 
 and disobedient mind. This, then, has been adequate to remove des- 
 pondency and fear, and it has animated with a hope that is unspeak- 
 able and full, of glory. It prepared a way for the progress and 
 triumph of righteousness and peace by the reception of the truth. It 
 is adapted directly to promote the human welfare. "Were but the 
 authority of God duly recognized, and the empire of Christ submit- 
 ted to, the evils and vices that oppress mankind would disappear ; and 
 this earth would assume the aspect of " a field which the Lord hath 
 blessed." Far more effectually than the enactments of civil author- 
 ity, does the benignant influence of Him who sways the sceptre over 
 each of the regenerate, quell the outbreaks of human passion, and 
 check the ruinous propensities of the apostate nature. From Jeru- 
 salem, then. His law may be spoken of as having gone forth ; nor 
 shall it fail at last in emancipating the people of every land from 
 bondage to comiption, and in filling the whole earth with the know- 
 ledge of the Lord. 
 
 Of this future success, more than an earnest has already been af- 
 forded. The event we are this day proposing to commemorate — 
 the scene which the text recalls — exhibits " Jesus, tlse Lamb of God" 
 as enduring the chastisement due to the offences of as many as believe 
 in him, preparatory to bursting the bonds of death, and binding in 
 captivity his own and his people's foes. His birth had been com- 
 paratively unnoticed ; his life seemed to have greatly failed of its effect 
 so far as regarded a disobedient and a gainsaying people. His asso- 
 ciates were few, and these of lowly origin, and comparatively unin- 
 structed minds ; His death was that apparently of one mingled with 
 the common fate. There might seem little to justify the glowing 
 pictures of a conquering Messiah ; there was little to captivate the 
 taste of those who were held in bondage by " the God of this world.'' 
 But when the efforts of enemies might seem to be successful — in 
 reality they contributed to accomplish the divine will and pleasure. 
 That sinking form is upheld by no created arm ; that scorned suf- 
 ferer is the same that the vision of the seer represented as clothed 
 in garments dipped in blood, " as red in his apparel," as advancing 
 from a scene of conquest, in which foes lay prostrate at His feet, and 
 slain by His victorious ainu. When Jesus " bowed his head and 
 gave up the ghost," the empire of Satan was overthrown — the abase- 
 ment of ilessiah ended, and his victory was secured. When he 
 said, " It is finished," he did so in the retrospect of a work that was 
 
60 
 
 completed. Nothing farther on his part remained to be accomplished. 
 The sacrifice appointed before the foundation of the world, and typi- 
 fied by the sacrifices of the law, had been offered and accepted. At 
 that time, when a pall of darkness veiled the sunbeams, when the 
 rocks were rent, the earth quaked, and the wonted covering of the 
 holy place was violently withdrawn ; when " Jesus cried with a loud 
 voice, saying, Father, into Thy hands I commend ray spirit," — the 
 mightiest incident took place that can affect humanity for good or 
 evil. " Crucified in weakness," the Redeemer is now " exalted in 
 power," and "he is able to save unto the uttermost all that come unto 
 God by Him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them." 
 With this, His temporary abatement closed : henceforth he became 
 invested with " all power in heaven and on earth." The enterprise 
 was fraught with the most momentous issues. Before " darkness was 
 on the earth " and brooded over the people, the sway of evil and the 
 ascendancy of sin were well-nigh absolute ; but when Jesus died 
 upon the cross, that ascendancy was overthrown — that triumph was 
 ensured, in which " all flesh shall together see his glory ; " that 
 period was made sure to come when there " shall be nothing to hurt 
 or offend in all God's holy mountain," when righteousness shall 
 prevail and evil cease. 
 
 Finally, the event spoken of in the text, while affording a ground 
 for the Christian's peace and joy, is directly fitted to teach him salu- 
 tary lessons. Thus was appropriately consummated, the one com- 
 plete and spotless example of holiness furnished to the world. Mark 
 tlien the demeanour of the Son of God at that hour, still filled with 
 zeal for the honour of the Father — cherishing the most enlarged de- 
 sires for the welfare of mankind, yet careful of all the claims of more 
 immediate duty — speaking comfort to the penitent associate of His 
 doom — spending almost His last breath in prayer, and careful of her 
 who had been appointed as the guardian of His childhood. Piety 
 and benevolence shine in Him with the brightest lustre, and in this, 
 as in other respects. He has left us an example that we should fol- 
 low in His steps." 
 
 Yet it is affecting to think that by many the grandeur of His cha- 
 racter and the value of His sufferings are little known ; that while 
 they may read the annals of His life, or hear the truths of the gos- 
 pel dwelt upon, they fail to consider aright the obligations which 
 are due to Him, as " the Redeemer of God's elect." To them His 
 death has been hitherto in vain, and by them His authority is de- 
 spised. But how tremendous must that vengeance be which could 
 
61 
 
 only, by such instrumentality, be averted ! how fearful is that wrath 
 which must be poured on the ungodly to the uttermost ! It is love 
 incensed — it is patience wearied by delay. Man, indeed, is the only 
 being throughout the universe — we have reason to think — unaffected 
 by this record. Loftier intelligences proffer to Christ the homage 
 of their love ; the very regions of despair are moved ; evil spirits 
 " believe and tremble;" but they who will not now have Him " to 
 reign over them," must count upon meeting hereafter with the due 
 retribution of their deeds. 
 
 It is, however, with different feelings that His people will look for- 
 ward to the engaging in that solemnity, which has for its appro- 
 priate purpose, the celebration of His obedience unto death, and the 
 showing forth of that event with which are connected their holiest 
 purposes and highest hopes. As servants of Him who came '* to 
 fulfil all righteousness," as having listened to His engaging voice 
 who has called upon sinners to approach Hira — as seeking to acquire 
 resemblance to His character — as pledged to a warfare against " the 
 devil, the world, and the flesh ; " as conscious of inherent weakness, 
 yet as coveting to be made through Him '' more than conquerors ; " 
 such a tribute is called fur, and such an engagement, if rightly 
 entered into, cannot but be profitable. In the breaking of the bread, 
 they behold an emblem of His sufferings, calculated to suggest the 
 reason and the cause of these ; while the cup of communion, like- 
 wise, is adapted to impress upon the memory and the heart, not only 
 that His blood "cleanseth from all sin,'' but that it is meant to wash 
 them from the stains of that pollution, which is dishonouring to 
 God, and at variance with the great purpose of the gospel. "WTiere • 
 fore, brethren, in the prospect of doing so, devoutly consider the 
 " great apostle and high priest of our profession," remembering that 
 He " gave himself for us to redeem us from iniquity, and to purify a 
 peculiar people" to himself, who should be "zealous of good works." 
 Examine whether you are really his followers, having in you "the 
 same mind ; " and while the retrospect of the past may be abundantly 
 fitted to suggest ground of sorrow and abasement ; let this endear to 
 your thoughts the memory of your Saviour's death, and lead you 
 anew to wash in that " fountain which has been opened for sin and 
 for uncleanness." Above all, my friends, in these days of easy pro- 
 fession, the grand question is to be considered — " Are we members 
 of Christ's body ?" for it is nothing to be so reputed among men, if 
 there be not kindred affection and loving devoted allegiance to the 
 
 Saviour. This is the proof of the genuineness of profession ; the 
 
62 
 
 evidence of fitness to sit at the table of the Lord. It is, however, as 
 to its temper, begun in this world ; for they that are Christ's are 
 crucifying the flesh with its affections and lusts ; and if any man be in 
 Christ, he is a new creature. Old things have passed away, and all 
 things have become new. May God bless His word, and to His 
 name be praise. Amen. 
 
 i^raecr. 
 
 Almighty and most gracious God ! be pleased to accompany with 
 Thy rich blessing the instruction that has been given from Thy 
 Word, and the several exercises of devotion in which we have joined. 
 We bless Thee that Christ Jesus has appeared to put away sin by 
 the sacrifice of Himself; has finished transgression, made an end of 
 sin, and brought in an everlasting righteousness ; has fully satisfied 
 the claims of justice, and is now exalted a Prince and Saviour, to 
 give repentance to Israel and the remission of sins. May we take 
 Him as our Saviour, and truly desire to honour His name. 
 
 Forbid that it should be to the condemnation of any of us that we 
 refused to hear His voice, to concur with His invitations, or to follow 
 His example. Send forth, we beseech Thee, Thy light and truth, 
 that we may be led and guided into all truth ; and may others take 
 knowledge of us that we have been with Jesus, and have contem- 
 plated with profit, alike the holy consistency of His life, and the 
 meritorious influence of His death, who gave himself for us to re- 
 deem us from iniquity, and to purify a peculiar people, zealous of 
 good works. 
 
 During the solemn service in which we are about to engage, do Thou 
 lift upon us the light of Thy reconciled countenance. Deal not with 
 us after our sins, nor reward us as our iniquities have deserved. 
 Be very gracious to all who this day intend to commemorate the 
 Redeemer's death, by sitting down at a communion table, and par- 
 taking of the bread and wine which represent Ills broken body and 
 poured out blood. 
 
 Hear our prayers, we beseech Thee, Lord, and pardon our sins. 
 Accept of our persons and services, for Christ Jesus' sake. Amen. 
 
63 
 
 Comimtnion *(rt)icc. 
 
 After the singing of another psahu or paraphrase, the pre- 
 sicliag minister commences the communion service by giving 
 an introductory address, technically called the " Fencing of the 
 Tables," the object of which is, in a plain, simple, and affec- 
 tionate manner, to indicate the qualifications of which com- 
 municants ought to be possessed, and the feelings and desires 
 by wliich they should be animated. From a variety of such 
 addi'esses, we give the following as a specimen : — 
 
 atr^jrcss iifforc (JTommunion. 
 
 My professing Christian friends, let me direct your attention to 
 the words of the institution of the holy supper of our Lord Jesus 
 Christ, as they are delivered by His servant and apostle, St. Paul. — 
 1 Cor. xi. 23-30. 
 
 " For I have received of the Lord, that which also I delivered 
 unto you. That the Lord Jesus, the same night in which He was 
 betrayed, took bread : 
 
 " And when He had given thanks, He brake it and said, Take, 
 eat ; this is My body which is broken for you : this do in remem- 
 brance of Me. 
 
 ** After the same manner also He took the cup, when He had sup- 
 ped, saying, This cup is the New Testament in My blood ; this do 
 ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of A[e. 
 
 " For as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup, ye do shew 
 the Lord's death till He come. 
 
 " Therefore, whosoever shall eat this bread and drink this cup of 
 the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the 
 Lord. 
 
 • " But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread 
 and drink of that cup. 
 
 " For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh 
 judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord's body." 
 
 The object of approach to the table is, that you may commemorate 
 the death of the Lord Jesus Christ, celebrating the great atonement 
 which He made on the cross, and entering anew with Him into a cove- 
 nant of love, gratitude, and obedience. The act is in compliance 
 with an express command of the Redeemer. It was addressed in 
 the first instance, exclusively to His disciples, for these alone were 
 
64 
 
 present ; and it still applies not to such as are careless and luke- 
 warm regarding their spiritual interests, or who are averse to any 
 of His precepts and injunctions. Christ demands the homage of the 
 heart. Free as air are the proclamations of the gospel : its sound 
 may be spoken of as going forth from sea to sea, and from the river 
 to the ends of the earth. It has a voice for all time, and for those 
 living the most distant from us, and in various places of abode. The 
 Greenlander has heard it amidst his long night and polar snows. The 
 slaves of superstition has been weaned by it, from the worship of 
 idols to serve the living God. The worshipper of Brahma or of 
 Boodh ; the most degraded as well as the lettered and polished ; 
 the decorous as to external conduct, as well as the almost outcast from 
 human society, are known to have been reclaimed by it to usefulness, 
 to comfort, and to God. But then, they were reclaimed, the gospel 
 coming to them not " in word only, but in demonstration of the 
 spirit, and with power." It arrested Paul. It has brought the 
 Magdalene with genuine tears, to sit, as it were at Jesus' feet. It 
 has softened the heart of the proud and worldly man, addicted to 
 to earth's frivolities alone, or immersed among its cares ; and could 
 we number up the instances of conversion and renewal that have taken 
 place since " the word of the Lord went forth from Jerusalem," we 
 should be reminded of the scene described by Ezekiel, when the 
 " spirit of the Lord " breathed effectually on the vast field, display- 
 ing the relics of carnage as descried by his prophetic glance — '* bone 
 coming again to bone, sinews binding, skin covering, and a host start- 
 ing up," an exceeding great army. Such, collectively considered, is 
 the triumph that has been won by the Prince of Peace. Innumerable 
 trophies have been obtained of His victory over death and hell — 
 abundant evidence afforded of the outpouring and communication of 
 the Holy Spirit. Very varied as to original derivation, shall be the 
 component members of that multitude, " without number," described 
 in the book of Revelation, as " standing before the throne of God," 
 attired in white raiment, bearing the symbol of triumph, and with 
 concurrent voice raising the lofty chorus of adoration in honour of 
 Him, " the Lamb once slain," but who is now " alive for ever- 
 more, and who bears the keys of hell and of death," all of whom 
 acquired on earth an interest in Christ's sacrifice, and were objects 
 of His love. 
 
 Let those who this day design to sit at His table, attend carefully 
 to the solemn import and binding nature of the transaction, remem- 
 bering that " God searcheth the heart, and trieth the reins of the 
 
65 
 
 children of men ; " that he cannot be deceived by a vain oblation ; 
 and that so far as regards practical benefit to be derived from the 
 ordinance, the avoiding of guilt, and the prospect of acceptance, all 
 may be said to hinge upon questions such as these : — Do we know 
 Christ, and love Christ ? Are we truly penitent on account of sin ? 
 Have we begun to walk with Christ in newness of life ? Have we 
 dedicated ourselves wholly and heartily to his service ? 
 
 But let us view the matter for a moment or two according to the 
 light of express scripture statements ; and may God vouchsafe to us 
 all, counsel, sound wisdom, and understanding 1 Observe then what 
 is said in the 15th Psalm. 
 
 Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy 
 holy hill ? 
 
 He that walketh uprightly, worketh righteousness, and speaketh 
 the truth in his heart. 
 
 He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his 
 neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. 
 
 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned : but he honoureth them 
 that fear the Lord. 
 
 Again, in St. Matthew v. 3-10, there is mention made of a variety 
 of features that are characteristic of the friends and followers of 
 Jesus and which it is incumbent upon every one of them to cultivate. 
 
 " Blessed are the poor in spirit ; for theirs is the kingdom of 
 heaven. 
 
 " Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted. 
 
 *' Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. 
 
 " Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness, 
 for they shall be filled. 
 
 " Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. 
 
 " Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. 
 
 " Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the chil- 
 dren of God. 
 
 " Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake, 
 for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." 
 
 But there are other statements more condensed, and not less ex- 
 plicit, which may serve to guide us in the enquiry, such as these — 
 
 " Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." 
 
 " They that are Christ's have crucified the flesh, with its affec- 
 tions and, lusts." 
 
 " There is now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, 
 who walk not after the flesh but after the spirit. 
 I 
 
" If any man be in Christ," (and out of Christ he continues ex- 
 posed to wrath and condemnation), " he is a new creature. Behold 
 old things are passed away, and all things are become new." 
 
 Sayings such as these, my friends, very decidedly inform us of 
 the character and disposition of those who are worthy to sit down at 
 the Lord's table. Are you meek, merciful, forgiving — seeking to 
 be "pure in heart," and hungering and thirsting after righteous- 
 ness ? Have you become changed characters, and are your hearts 
 " touched as with a live coal from off the altar ? " Is it really your 
 desire to live in Christ, for Christ, with Christ, and would you, on 
 no account whatever, knowingly and deliberately — of set purpose — 
 break His reasonable injunctions ? Do you give to God the first 
 place in your hearts, allowing no idol to occupy the soul, be it the 
 love of lust or gain, or confidence in your fancied wisdom ? Do you 
 recoil from the impiety of taking His name in vain ? Do you stand 
 nobly and resolutely out in refusing to buy or sell upon His day ? 
 Are you honestly desirous to fulfil in God's sight, and as he bids 
 you, the relative and social duties ? Do you avoid the unclean 
 thought as well as the impure action ? In fine, are you desirous of 
 glorifving God in your body and spirit which are His ? Can you 
 declare with Joshua, *' as for me and my house, we will serve the 
 the Lord ?" Then do we invite you to this feast of love to be held in 
 remembrance of Jesus : Who assumed our nature : bore for us the 
 wrath of God from the beginning of His incarnation to the end of 
 His life on earth, especially in the garden and on the cross : who 
 suffered innumerable revilings, that we might not be brought to 
 shame ; was, in innocence, condemned to death, that we might be 
 acquitted at the judgment seat : who suffered His blessed body to 
 be nailed to the cross, that he might fasten thereon the handwriting 
 of our sins ; who took on Him the burden of our curse, that he might 
 fill us with His blessings ; who exclaimed, " my God, my God, 
 why hast thou forsaken me? " that we might be made nigh to God 
 and never be forsaken of Him : who confirmed, with His death, and 
 with the shedding of His blood, the covenant of grace and reconcil- 
 iation, when He said " It is finished." 
 
 Let us, therefore, ^ath humble hearts, bow ourselves before Him, 
 and with true faith implore His grace, and may our communion be 
 in truth with the Father, with the Son, and with the Holy Ghost. 
 Amen. 
 
 At the close of this address, the minister gives out another 
 psalm or paraplirasc to be sung : most appropriately, the 35tli 
 
67 
 
 paraphrase is often used on such occasions, and he intimates, 
 before the singing commences, that while it proceed?, the 
 elders will bring forward the elements of communion. These 
 being arranged properly on the table, the presiding minister 
 leaves the pidpit and takes his place at the head of it. He 
 then anew offers up prayer for a blessing upon the ordinance. 
 
 draper tiffore Comnninion. 
 
 Lord, Thou art a Spirit, and we ask Thee to enable us to wor- 
 ship Thee in spirit and in truth. Call in our wandering thoughts, 
 invigorate our feeble aftectious, and let our minds be centred upon 
 that love which passeth knowledge, and which has been exhibited 
 and made known to man by Him who came into the world that He 
 might seek and save that which was lost. 
 
 Thou art, Lord, the fountain of excellence and perfection : the 
 God by whom all things are sustained — the Holy One of Israel, 
 before whom the angels that retained their purity, veil their faces 
 with their wings, ceasing not to cry. Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God 
 Almighty ! just and true are all Thy ways, Thou King of Saints ! 
 
 Possessed of every perfection. Thou stoode^t not in need of the 
 service of creatures, but Thou didst form them to reflect Thy glory, 
 to shew forth Thv praise, and bear testimony to the wisdom and 
 compassion of Him with whom we have to do. 
 
 We bless Thee that when man had sinned, Thou didst not leave 
 him to perish in despair, without the offer of forgiveness, but that 
 when the fulness of the time had come, didst send forth Thy Son, made 
 of a woman, made under the law, that he might magnify its claims 
 and bring in an everlasting righteousness ; that mercy and truth 
 have met together ; that righteousness and peace have embraced each 
 other ; that thus pardon is offered to the chief of sinners, a door of 
 hope has been opened to the penitent offender, and a ransom provid- 
 ed for the most unworthy. 
 
 Eternal thanks be unto Him who came in the name of the Lord 
 to save us ; who, prosecuting his errand of love, was bom of woman, 
 and illustrated among men the purity and rectitude of obedience ; 
 who humbled himself, was set at nought of men, and despised of the 
 people ; who endured the hiding of the Father's countenance ; was 
 agonised in Gethsemane, and died on Calvary, bearing the weight of 
 the iniquities of His people, and at last bowing his anointed head, 
 gave up the ghost. Bless the Lord, our souls, and forget not all 
 
68 
 
 His benefits, who forgiveth oar iniquities, bealeth our diseases, and 
 crowneth us with loving kindness and tender mercies. 
 
 We thank Thee, heavenly Father, for that sacred feast which Jesus 
 instituted the same night on which He was betrayed, to commemorate 
 the decease which was accomplished at Jerusalem. May the bread 
 which we break be the communion of the body of Christ, and the 
 wine which is poured out be the communion of the blood of Christ. 
 Give to each who would approach the table the preparation of the 
 heart. May we look to Christ with faith and love. Be gracious to 
 all intending communicants, and inspire us with stedfast desire after 
 new obedience, that feeling we are laid under solemn obligations to 
 Him who loved and gave Himself for us, we may seek to glorify 
 the name of Christ, may advocate His cause, and may adorn the doc- 
 trine that is according to godliness by a suitable deportment. 
 
 Bow the heavens, Lord ! Come down and fill this place with 
 Thy glory. May we feel that it is good for us to be here. Having 
 come into the banqueting house, let Thy banner over us be love. 
 
 Father, Son and Holy Spirit ! three Persons and one God, deal 
 graciously with Thy servants, and bless this ordinance for our spi- 
 ritual nourishment and gorwth in grace, for the sake of the Lord 
 Jesus Christ, our strength and Redeemer. Amen. 
 
 jf irst Catic ^rrbirr. 
 ISfforc Communicattng. 
 
 You have now come to observe that ordinance which Jesus or- 
 dained to signify His dying love and represent his sufierings ; have 
 Beated yourselves at the Lord's Table to receive the seals of his 
 unchanging love ; to profess that you belong to that glorious and 
 blessed family, whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life, 
 that you would be associated with the righteous on earth, and desire 
 to reach their inheritance in heaven. 
 
 When you would contemplate the death of Christ, how varied are 
 the themes that may be presented for contemplation ! Looking at 
 the cross, we behold prophecy fulfilled — the most illustrious example 
 of suftering virtue — the slaying of the Lamb ordained from before 
 the foundation of the world. Think then of the glory which Christ 
 had with the Father before the world was — traces of which were 
 abundantly discernible during the time that he sojourned on earth. 
 At his birth, a chorus of angels — a multitude of the heavenly host 
 — lifted up their voices, though but in the hearing of a few humble 
 shepherds, the splendotir of their appearance lighting up the sky, — 
 
69 
 
 proclaiming '* Glory to God in the highest, peace on earth, good will 
 to the children of men." At His baptism on the hanks of Jordan 
 the heavens were opened, the Spirit descended on Him in the form 
 of a dove, and the Almighty Father's voice declared, " This is my 
 beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.'" On the mount of trans- 
 jiguration His face shone as the sun, and His raiments were white 
 as light, while Moses, the great lawgiver of the Jews, and Elijah, as 
 repi-esentative of the prophets were seen with him, conversing regard- 
 ing the decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem. While 
 carrying on his work, grace was " poured into his lips," and he was 
 fairer than the children of men." His words were accompanied with 
 power. He touched the sightless eyehalls, and the faculty of vision 
 was restored. He spake : waves were quelled, the tempest ceased, the 
 sick were healed, the dead hecame alive ; nay, even when he hung 
 in agony on the cross, amidst the mockeries of a jeering crowd, who 
 had heut the knee to him in scorn, and, unconsciously fulfilling the 
 divine will, had called for his crucifixion ; when he consented to ex- 
 pii'e by the death usually allotted to the criminal and the slave, 
 wondrous signs bore witness to his dignity ; the sun was darkened, 
 the earth shook, the rocks were rent, and the centurion who presided 
 over the soldiers exclaimed, " Truly this was the Son of God." Reflect 
 farther on the glory that shone around Him, when the morning of 
 the third day witnessed an empty sepulchre, and he rose from the 
 tomb, as the conqueror of sin and death, in the splendour and dignity 
 of his ascension ; when his feet left the Mount of Olives, and he visi- 
 bly ascended up on high, till a cloud covered Him fi*om the view of 
 the disciples ; and on the magnificence of His second coming, when he 
 shall appear in the glory of His Father and with the holy angels, 
 no longer in weakness and humiliation, but exalted in power and 
 majesty. This, communicants, is the exalted and generous Friend, 
 whose dying love you are professing to commemorate. 
 
 From the height of His glory, turn now to the depth of His humili 
 ation, condescension, and sufferings. "When Jesus came, there were few 
 outward marks of splendour. He was born in a stable, cradled in a 
 manger. His early life was passed in obscurity, and when His public 
 ministry began. His name was cast out as evil by his countrymen, and 
 the most obnoxious and unfounded calumnies circulated. Behold Him 
 pursued with unv.earied hatred, his miracles ascribed to the power of 
 the evil one, His soul saddened by the contemplation of human guilt 
 and infatuation, subjected to an usage that had been unriatural in the 
 case of the worst of criminals, so that " He gave His back to the 
 
70 
 
 smiters, His cheek to them that pulled off the hair, Iiiding not His 
 face fronj shame and spitting; " His sacred temples wounded by the 
 crown of thorns — Mis hands and feet pierced by the nails — His whole 
 body suspended in excruciating agony on the cross. Think of the 
 assault of malignant spirits, and of the power of darkness — of the 
 unutterable sufferings of His holy soul ; when terror und sorrow took 
 hold upon Him, and He was deprived for a time of the sense of liis 
 Father's love. >Yho can express His grief when He exclaimed, 
 " My soul is exceeding sorrowful even unto death ?" — when in 
 the garden of Gethsemane, He fell to the ground and prayed, Omy 
 Father, if it be possible let this cup pass from me ; " or when He 
 exclaimed upon the cross, " My God, my God, why hast Thou for- 
 saken me?" Well might He appropriate the language of the 
 prophet, and say, " Behold and see, all ye that pass by, if there be 
 any sorrow like unto my sorrow, wherewith the Lord hath afflicted me 
 in the day of His fierce anger." Yes, communicants, never was 
 sorrovvlike to this — never did love abound like the love of Him who 
 gave His life a ransom for many, to gather you to himself, bring 
 you to God, and make you members of the household of faith and 
 " fellow-citizens of the saints." With what wonder and gratitude 
 should His love inspire those who were once as " sheep going astray, 
 but are now returned unto the Shepherd and bishop of souls." If 
 ye are joined to Him by covenant, how natural and congenial should 
 this observance be. Trusting then, that you cherish to God filial 
 affection, and that the Lord Jesus Christ is the object of your homage 
 and adoration, I proceed to put into your hands the symbols of that 
 body which was broken, and of that blood which was shed on your 
 account. 
 
 " On that night in which our blessed Lord was betrayed. He took 
 bread, and when He had blessed. He brake it, and gave it to the 
 disciples, saying. Take eat : This is my body which is broken for 
 you. In like manner also after supper. He took the cup, and when 
 He had blessed, He gave it to the disciples. This cup is the New 
 Testament in my blood, shed for the remission of the sins of many, 
 Drink ye all of it. For as often as ye eat this bread and drink this 
 cup, ye do shew the Lord's death until He come." 
 
 after CTommiimcating. 
 
 " We have thought of Thy loving kindness Lord, in the midst 
 of Thy temple." Whether you trace this back to its source, view 
 the manner in which it has been manifested, or the happy and last- 
 
71 
 
 ing results that proceed from it, there is abundant cause for grati- 
 tude and praise. Uow blessed is the condition of believers ! " The 
 eteri.al God is your refuge, and underneath you are the everlasting 
 arms." *' The Lord God is a sun and sliield ; He will give grace and 
 glorv, and no good thing -will be withheld from any that do walk 
 uprightly." " Happy art Thou, Israel, who is like unto Thee, 
 people, saved by the Lord, who is the shield of thy help, and the 
 glory of thine excellency.^' " The Lord is thy keeper ; the Lord is 
 thy shade upon thy right band. The sun shall not smite thee 
 by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord shall preserve thee 
 from all evil. He shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve 
 thy going out and thy coming in, from this time forth, and even for 
 evermore.'' 
 
 Promises such as these, communicants, are ample and inspiriting, 
 but they are the property only of those who have heartily yielded 
 themselves to the service of the Almighty. To assume the aspect 
 of profession is an easy matter. To acquire a certain amount of 
 knowledge regarding the contents of Scripture — to be familiar with 
 the events in the history of our blessed Lord — to be able, in general 
 terms, to state the method of salvation — is by no means difficult. 
 Rut the profession of outward actions is of no value, if it be unac- 
 companied bv sincerity of heart, by renewedness of mind, and the 
 earnest aim to adorn the doctrine of God your Saviour in aU things. 
 As water can rise no higher than its source, so, derived of the anoint- 
 ing spirit of Christian love, the heart untouched as by a "live coal 
 from off the altar," — all is but as sounding brass, and a tinkling 
 symbol," the motion of an automaton rather than of a sentient being, 
 — the raising of an altar on which no acceptable sacritice is laid — the 
 form of godliness while the reality and power are wanting. 
 
 But we trust, communicants, that it is otherwise with you — that 
 you are " called, chosen, and faithful," sealed to the day of ever- 
 lasting redemption, so that to you we may apply, the words of 
 the Redeemer spoken originally to His diciples, " Ye now therefore 
 have sorrow ; but I will see you begin, and yoiu- hearts shall rejoice, 
 and your joy no man taketh from you." Then may you rejoice in 
 His triumph over death — in His glorious^ resurrection from the 
 tomb — and in the assiu-ance that He has risen as the " first fruits of 
 them that sleep.'" You may rejoice in thought as you accompany 
 the apostles unto Bethany, and see Him ascend to " His Father and 
 your Father — to His God and your God."' You can rejoice in the 
 triumphs of His Gospel, which has enriched so many nations and sur- 
 
72 
 
 vived so many changes, in the number of His elect that have already- 
 been gathered in, and in the prediction of a countless multitude that 
 shall for ever celebrate his praises ; and you may rejoice also with un- 
 feigned humility and deepest gratitude that you have been " plucked 
 as brands from the burning " — that a title has been given you to 
 the blessings of His purchase, the power of God, and the privileges 
 of His children, the spirit of sanctification, peace of conscience, 
 advancement in holiness, perseverance in grace, the hope of a blessed 
 resurrection, and the animating prospect of a glorious eternity. 
 
 But the expression " ye now therefore have sorrow, and I will see 
 you again," implies that imperfection cleaves to your present state. 
 Be up and doing. " Quit you like men ! be strong." Enter often 
 into His presence-chamber, and " bring forth fruits meet for repent- 
 ance." " Lay hold on the strength of Him that is Almighty." 
 You have seen the child — his unsteady footsteps guided by a 
 father's or a mother's hand, — it is an emblem of the believer's weak- 
 ness and of God's sufficiency. What would be thought of the heir to a 
 kingdom if he betrayed a grovelling propensity? You are heirs of God, 
 and joint heirs with Christ ; " and what have you any more to do with 
 idols ? " " Pass," then, " the time of your sojourning here in fear," 
 walking as " children of the light and of the day ; " and " have your 
 conversation in heaven, whence also you look for the Saviour, who 
 shall change our vile bodies and fashion them like unto His glorious 
 body, according to the working, whereby He is able even to subdue 
 all things unto himself." Go in peace, and may the God of love 
 and peace be with you. 
 
 Scconlr €ai\e Sbtrbice- 
 
 BEFORE COMMUNICATING. 
 
 In obedience to the command of the Lord Jesus j'ou have sat 
 down at His table — that you maj'^ declare your attachment to His 
 cause, your reliance on His merits for pardon and acceptance, and 
 your grateful remembrance of Him as the Lord of glory, who 
 stooped from His place in heaven to dwell with men upon the earth ; 
 who, compassionating our weakness, exposed Himself to abasement, 
 sorrow, suffering, and shame, that He might procure your deliver- 
 ance, and work out your salvation. 
 
 On what principle they who are ignorant of, or who refuse to re- 
 cognise His glory, can explain such an act, it is difficult to imagine. 
 Apart from the consideration of His atoning death as a sacrifice and 
 propitiation through faith in His blood — on the supposition that re- 
 
pentance is enough to reinstate man in the favour of the Ahnighty, 
 that decease which you are to commemorate would have been super- 
 flaous. Had the Lord Jesus come merely to set mankind an ex- 
 ample of virtuous action and resignation to suffering, our service 
 this day woidd be but creature-worship. 
 
 You, however, have learned to contemplate the subject in another 
 and far nobler point of view. You feel that this is at once a solemn 
 and a delightful exercise. You recognise in Him the Messiah pro- 
 mised to the fathers, the woman's seed, the Almighty Friend, the 
 illustrious Conqueror. You bear in mind that this Exalted One — 
 '* the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth," was pos- 
 sessor of heaven's riches, ruler of the universe, and adored by the 
 angelic hosts. This ordinance presents Him as instructing and car- 
 ing for that Church, whose members He has, by the shedding of 
 His blood, redeemed, and over whose interests He will not fail to 
 watch. Every century since the beginning of the world has testi- 
 fied to His care ; and the ages yet to come will continue to bear wit- 
 ness to His praise : for He is the angel of the covenant, the King 
 and Head of His Church, the Intercessor within the veil. To Him 
 has been given '■ all power in heaven and on earth ; '' and bv His 
 word and Spirit, He is carrying on that plan of grace which re- 
 dounds to the divine honour, and will result in the salvation of a 
 " multitude that none can number.'' 
 
 " How great is His goodness ! '' The redemption of His people 
 was ever presented to His mind, and at how great a cost to Him 
 was it obtained I From riches He stooped to poverty ; from happi- 
 ness to the curse ; and from glory to the depth of shame. Peculiarly 
 dear to Him was the Father's love ; yet His anger Christ was for a 
 season contented to bear ; and thus did He express His sense of it, 
 " My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me ? " Contemplate 
 Him, then, in ignominy and agony ! The horror of that darkness 
 who is able to conceive ? The loneliness of that desertion who can 
 comprehend ? 
 
 How great is the measure in which His goodness has abounded ! 
 He gives pardon to the chief of sinners, adoption to the children of 
 wrath, liberty to the captive, treasure to the needy, light to the 
 blind, joy to the sorrowful, and beauties of holiness to the depraved. 
 He "resteth in his love," for His gracious purposes will not fail of 
 their full accomplishment. Behold, then, Jesus " the Lamb of God," 
 who loved you and gave Himself for you ; and through the memorials 
 of which you are to partake, let what He endured be vividly re- 
 K 
 
74 
 
 called, and lot the recollection be precious of that sacrifice which lie 
 offered, that divine justice might be satisfied and sinners be recon- 
 ciled to God. 
 
 AFTER COMMUNICATING. 
 
 " What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits towards 
 me ? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of 
 the Lord. I will pay my vows unto the Lord, in the presence of 
 his people." This, you now have done ; and most appropriate was the 
 act on the part of those who must ascribe to the Lord Jesus the par- 
 don of their transgressions, the mercy they have experienced, their 
 deliverance from eternal death, and their hope of an inheritance of 
 glory. 
 
 But the act which you have now performed is not sufficient by 
 itself. It may give the appearance of discipleship, and even be at- 
 tended by inward joy and comfort. But, hy itself, it is onl}'^ an out- 
 ward badge. You must, accordingly, be prepared to justify that 
 profession in j-our daily life. In having intercourse with the world, 
 you are to "bear about in the body" a salutary and precious re- 
 membrance of the death of Christ, and of the purposes it is intended to 
 accomplish ; to show that you have imbibed His Spirit, and to make 
 it your aim to follow more fuUy Ills example. Let not, therefore, 
 your affections cool, your energy decline, or your hope grow languid. 
 "Ye are my friends," He says, "ifye do whatsoever Icommand you." 
 " I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of 
 mine. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him, 
 for they know not the voice of strangers." How true should this 
 be ! Whatever would lead you from Christ, and diminish your af- 
 fection for Him, must be hostile to your comfort, well-being, and 
 peace. But the goodness that cared for you when lost, the love that 
 plucked you from everlasting burnings, that has provided so ample 
 and satisfying a portion, and left upon record such exalted pro- 
 mises, ought not to be forgotten. Let reflection on it keep you 
 amidst the intercourse and temptations of the world. Let it be often 
 recalled in your meditations, and lead you frequently to a throne of 
 grace, there to express wants, which He " who is faithful that has 
 promised," is willing and able to supply. 
 
 Let the goodness of your Redeemer be a subject of imitation. It 
 was liberal even to th.e rebellious and unthankful, diffusive as the 
 sun, gentle and salutary as the rain. It bore with many a provoca- 
 tion ; it was not wearied by unworthiness ; and it regarded not 
 
/O 
 
 personal inconvenieuce and fatigue. " As ye, therefore, have op- 
 portunity, do good uuto all, especially unto them that are of the 
 household of the Lord." 
 
 Let it stimulate your diligence. It was a holy beneficence that 
 Christ displayed ; and the Master you avowedly serve has said, 
 "Occupy till I come,'' "How much owest thou unto the Lord? "' 
 As the computation rises above the estimate of the present, so let it 
 guide the demeanour and conduct of the future. 
 
 Let the belief in this goodness banish unfounded and unworthy 
 fears. " Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of 
 my life, and I will dwell in the bouse of the Lord for ever."' Ene- 
 mies may reproach ; the evil they can inflict is only limited. The 
 remainder of indwelling corruption may harass ; but the struggle 
 between flesh and spirit will ultimately and soon cease. Satan may 
 rage, but his hostility is vain ; there is armour of proof to wear — the 
 shield of faith, and the sword of the spirit which you can employ. 
 The grave may be gloomy ; but Jesus has tasted of its bitterness, 
 and has converted it into a tranquil resting-place for the worn out 
 frame. The abodes of misery are fearful ; but not one for whom 
 Jesus died can be severed from His protecting care. The future is 
 hid from sight ; but what eye hath not seen is made sure by the 
 love of Christ, by the promise and covenant of God. " Thy sun 
 shall no more go down : thy bliss none can take from thee." 
 
 Cttrir Caile S»crbtcr. 
 
 Communicants, near the commencement of one of the four narra- 
 tives of our blessed Saviour's life, which have been left upon record 
 for the instruction of His Church in every age ; we find it said of 
 Him, whose death you are preparing to commemorate, " Behold the 
 Lamb of God, that taketh way the sins of the world." In these 
 terms, Messiah was pointed out to those who had been gathered to 
 hear the preaching of John, at the morning hour of that new dis- 
 pensation by which the economy of Moses was ere long to be super- 
 seded, and by the lips of him who was sent to prepare a wav for the 
 Lord's Anointed. 
 
 This would have been a most welcome announcement in the case 
 of all who rightly understood the Scriptural predictions regarding 
 Jesus ; and we, who have so often heard of them, and can trace 
 their fulfilment, can be at no loss to understand the appositeness of 
 the illustration. Jesus is, in very truth, the Lamb of God, whether 
 vou consider the features of His character or the nature of the ex- 
 
76 
 
 ample which lie displayed, — His divine designation to the work, or 
 the completeness and success of that triumph which He has achieved. 
 Behold, then, communicants, the spotless virtue of a character and 
 deportment that were wholly free from the taint of corruption — the 
 singular specimen of a human nature that shared not in the guilt 
 of Adam, the illustrious example of meek submission under the 
 worst of injuries. Consider the poverty and depression of His child- 
 hood and youth — the obstacles by which His etforts were opposed — 
 the unbelief with which He had to struggle — His patience under 
 suffering — the holy resolution which He exemplified — the manner 
 in which He freely mingled with all to whom He could find access 
 — and, is not the fidelity of the prophetic statement manifest, '* He 
 is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her 
 shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth ? " 
 
 Yet this is not the only particular in which the statement of pro- 
 phecy finds accomplishment. Jesus, communicants, is also the 
 " Lamb of God " in point of typical resemblance. The Old Testa- 
 ment Scriptures are full of reference to sacrifices. At the moment of 
 the fall there was intimation made of One by whom the "head of 
 the serpent" should be "bruised," and after that intimation, we 
 find not obscurely traces of the rite of sacrifice as existing. Two of 
 Adam's sons come before the Lord, the offering of one is accepted, 
 the oblation of the other is refused. Farther on, in the cuirent of 
 time, the sacrifice you propose to commemorate was still more clearh'^ 
 shadowed forth. The father of the faithful has been commanded to 
 offer up the son of his old age, the child of many a prayer, and the 
 promised seed in whom the families of the world are to be blessed. 
 Isaac bears the wood of the cross to the appointed spot, and Abra- 
 ham's hand is uplifted to deal the stroke, when the ram caught in 
 the thicket by the horns is accepted instead. And, still farther, on 
 that memorable night when the destroying angel passed over Egypt, 
 each family in Israel had been commanded to take a lamb from out 
 the flock, to sprinkle its blood upon the door-post, and to partake of 
 that sacramental provision to prepare them for the journey ; while 
 in the temple daily, at morning and evening, a lamb was slain, the 
 priest confessing over its head the iniquities of the people, carrying 
 the blood with him into the holy place, and returning thence to bless 
 them : rites not of any virtue in themselves, but intended to direct 
 the eye of faith to Him who should, at the appointed time, " put 
 away sin by the sacrifice of Himself." 
 
 Once more, communicants, it was said of Jesus by His forerunner 
 
11 
 
 John, that He sbould " take, ateay the sins of the world.'' Such a 
 task was beyond (he power of any one not superior in dignity to 
 eveiy creature. He must not only be possessed of power to lay 
 down lite, but of power also to satisty the claims of justice, obeying 
 in our room and stead, the law whicli men had broken, and under the 
 condemnation and curse of which they lay. Your Saviour's under- 
 taking, communicants, was settled in the councils of eternity. It 
 necessitated His abnegation for a season of that glory which He had 
 with (he Father before the world was. In prosecuting it, He met 
 the might of Satan, and quenched the fiery darts of the wicked one. 
 He was made sin for us, (hough He knew no sin, that we might be 
 made the righteousness of God in Him ; for " it pleased the Lord (o 
 bruise him and put him to grief." He was " stricken, smitten of 
 God, and alHicted ; " the " chastisement of our peace was upon him, 
 that by his stripes we might be healed." 
 
 Unparalleled, indeed, was His endurance, for, from the opening of 
 His existence upon earth, through the labours of His troubled miui- 
 stry, up to the agony of the garden and the endurance of the cross, 
 Jesus was " a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief." In tlie 
 place, it is true, whither He has gone. He ciin no more be betrayed. 
 His time of suffering has long been over ; and the heavens have re- 
 ceived Him till ''the restitution of all things come." But, if it be 
 app-opriate and befitting to commemorate iilusti-ious deeds ; if this 
 be the gi-eatest of triumphs and of victories ; and if the ordinance it- 
 self in which you are called upon to join be sanctioned, as it is, hx 
 divine appointment ; you do well to approach (he table of the Lord. 
 Let me trust that you do so with hearts deeply sensible of the evil 
 of sin ; with affections weaned from a passing world ; and with souls 
 that '' hunger and thirst after righteousness ; " desirous of ratifv- 
 ing your engagement to the Lord ; and of joining yourselves to 
 Him in a " perpetual covenant, never to be forgotten." — On that 
 night, &c. 
 
 AFTER COMMUNICATING. 
 
 You have now, communicants, been engaged in commemoratin'^ 
 that death which is the foundation of a Christian's hopes, and have 
 showed forth afresh the "decease which was accomplished at Jeru- 
 salem." Right and becoming is it thus to acknowledge the sense of 
 obligation to pardoning mercy and justifying grace ; in presence of 
 Almighty God, and of the members of His Church upon earth, to de- 
 clare your prefcrmcc of the service of Christ, and your detennina- 
 
78 
 
 tion, tlirough divine assistance, to live in fulfilment of the great end 
 of your being. Often, moreover, has tliis ordinance proved a source 
 of joy and spiritual refreshment to the pilgrim in the wilderness, 
 when his soul was satisfied as " with marrow and fatness,"' and he 
 was led with thankful lips to praise the Lord. 
 
 Permit me, however, to remind you, that the mere act of com- 
 municating, is not, in itself, enough. It may give the appearance 
 of discipleship, and may be accompanied by sensible emotions of joy 
 and comfort, which may, however, be more the result of natural sensi- 
 bility, than the fruit of a work of grace upon the soul. You must, 
 accordingly, be prepared to justify your profession in your walk 
 through life. In your intercourse with the world, you are called 
 upon to " bear about in the body " a salutary influential remem- 
 brance of the dying of the Lord Jesus, and of the purposes which it 
 was intended to promote ; you are to show and prove that you have 
 imbibed His Spirit, and that it is your aim more fully and constantly 
 to follow His example. " My sheep hear my voice and follow me," 
 He has said, " but a stranger's voice will they not follow, for they 
 know not the voice of strangers." " Ye are my friends," He de- 
 clares, if ve do whatsoever I command you." *' I am the good 
 shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine."' 
 
 The act in which you have engaged has been either a mockery 
 and pretence — it may be almost unconsciously to yourselves — or it 
 in, as I hope and trust, a great reality. "What, then, should be the 
 conduct, — the spirituality, and devotedness, — the avoidance of sin, 
 and pursuit of righteousness, — which ought to mark those who " have 
 been with Jesus?"' Desire, by habits of secret devotion^ conscien- 
 tiously observed, by diligently waiting upon God in His ordinances 
 and by the devout perusal of the Word, with fervent prayer — to 
 preserve the flame of devotion. Let not, " because iniquity abounds," 
 vour love grow cold, nor let it be said of any one amongst you, that 
 while in outward semblance, servants of the Most High, you "drew 
 near to him with the mouth," and honoured Him with the lips and 
 in the act, while yet your hearts were far from Him. 
 
 Communicants, if in sincerity and truth, having believed in Christ, 
 and fled for refuge to Him as your deliverer, you have partaken of 
 this ordinance, most ample is the recompence to which you are per- 
 mitted to look forward — " Ye are come unto ^Mount Zion, to the city 
 of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable 
 company of angels, to the spirits of the just made perfect, and 
 to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant."' The trials of life 
 
79 
 
 may assail and its cares perplex. Temptation may shower its 
 fiery darts, but against them interpose the shield of faith. You 
 may be sufficiently supplied with this world's gootls, but your 
 best treasure lies beyond the skies, where your Elder Brother is 
 now seated at the right hand of God. Or you may be poor, deso- 
 late, afflicted. Yet the " mountains may depart, and the hills may 
 be removed,'" yet will His kindness not forsake any one of the heirs 
 of adoption. " Fear not," He says, "I am with thee ; I have called 
 thee by thy name, thou art mine." He is not ashamed to call his 
 people "brethren." He " resteth in his love," and when "heart 
 and tlesh faint and fail, the Lord will be the stay of their hearts and 
 their portion for ever." — Go, then, in peace, from the table of the 
 I..ord, &c. 
 
 .-fTourtJ^ Catic ^rrbtrc 
 
 BKFORE COMMUNION. 
 
 Behold, Christians, the Lamb of God, who taketli away the sins 
 of the world ! To satisfy the demands of justice, and to meet the 
 necessities of the case, it was requisite that a ransom should be of- 
 fered, and that ransom was provided by God himself, and was 
 offered by His only begotten and well-beloved Son, who " gave 
 himself for us, a sacrifice and an offering of a sweet sn)elling 
 savour ;'' and though " He knew no sin, was made sin for us, that 
 we might be made the righteousness of God in Him." 
 
 When John thus pointed out Jesus to his disciples, the course of 
 His sufferings had not commenced, nor had the miracles been per- 
 formed, or the discourses been spoken, by which His name is em- 
 balmed in the Gospel history. But John was divinely instructed 
 that this was the Messiah promised to the fathers. He knew tliat 
 the sacrifices of the law should be fulfilled in Him ; and that, in the 
 plenitude of generosity and grace, when mankind lay under a curse 
 because of disobedience, and the ascendancy of Satan, was proved 
 by the darkness that prevailed, and the depravity that reigned, 
 — He, who was the " woman's seed," should l)url Satan from his 
 throne, expiate offences, "bring in an everlasting righteousness," 
 meet, in His own person, the stroke of offended justice ; and, at the 
 price of abasement, insult, and suffering, rescue, by the outpouring 
 of His blood and the efficacy of His intercession, a countless multi- 
 tude, who now have " washed their robes and made them white in 
 the blood of the Lamb." 
 
 Communicants! vou cannot see Jesus with tlic bodilv sijrht, Imt 
 
80 
 
 you can behold Hlin with the eye of faith. You cannot listen to 
 His discourses as delivered by His own lips, but you can peruse 
 and profit by the record of these as preserved in the pages of in- 
 spiration. You cannot minister to Him of your substance ; but you 
 can render to Him the homage of your lives. You are unable, like 
 Joseph, to lay His sacred body in the new tomb, where mortal flesh 
 never before had been deposited ; but you can cherish deeply His 
 love within yonr hearts, and it is, I trust, from experience of His 
 beneficence, that you are now able to say, " Oh, how I love Thy 
 law," " How great is His goodness, and how great is His beauty I" 
 " Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will tell what he hath 
 done for my soul." 
 
 These elements of bi'cad and wine set before you the body which 
 was broken and the blood which was poured out. 1 hey intimate 
 the necessity for crucifying the flesh ; and they are intended to re- 
 mind you that the followers of Jesus are bound by no common obli- 
 gations, — that they are debtors to a " love that passeth knowledge," 
 — and that it ought to be the main business and great desire of their 
 existence to live unto His glory. You bear the name of Christ. 
 You occupy the honoured position of those for whom His blood was 
 shed ; and it is, I trust, under a deep conviction of the sacredness 
 and binding obligation of the vows you are about to take, that you 
 would now commemorate His death. " On that night," &c, 
 
 AFTER COMMUNICATING. 
 
 Illustrious and cheering, communicants I are those hopes which 
 the followers of the Saviour are permitted to cherish. I'heir sins, it is 
 true, are numerous and aggravated ; any one of them being sufficient 
 to sink soul and body into eternal torment. Their unworthiness is 
 painfully evident to themselves ; but their hope rests on the worthi- 
 ness of another. Their trials are oftentimes severe ; but the sympa- 
 thising heart of the Man of sorrows knows them all, and the assur- 
 ance has been given that these shall be succeeded by an " exceeding 
 and eternal weight of glory." Their shortcomings in duty are often 
 infinitely distressing ; but this distress evinces the tenderness of 
 conscience ; and far different is their case from that of those who 
 work iniquity with greediness, and remain careless and dead under 
 the awakening tidings of the Gospel. 
 
 But let me beseech you, communicants, 7tever to forget whose love 
 it is that you have thus commemorated, — at what a price your re- 
 tlemption was secured, — and how possible is the supposition that the 
 
81 
 
 heart may be deceived in the midst of its professions. You have 
 entered upon a conflict, and it must be maintained. You are bound 
 by most sacred obligations, and these must be kept. You are called 
 by the name of Christ, and you must be prepared to " depart from 
 all iniquity." You have " drunk of the Lord's cup," and *' the cup 
 of devils must be forsworn." You must be disciples at all times, in 
 every place, in the world as in the church, "dying daily unto sin," 
 " hating the garment spotted by the flesh," and solicitous to " shew 
 out of a good conversation your faith unfeigned." 
 
 To the unconverted mind, this seems hard ; to the insincere, this 
 seems to be impossible. But the Christian knows of his " help, 
 that it com eth from the Lord ;" that the " way to the Holiest is 
 ever open;" and that Jesus the " -La??2&," who once was "slain," 
 now intercedes for His people at the right hand of the Majesty on 
 high. Yov you He tasted the bitterness of dying. For you He 
 took the condition of a servant He became a " man of sorrows and 
 acquainted with grief." He died upon the cross, and He was laid 
 in a lowly tomb. The hands that were extended to bless were 
 pierced with nails ; the feet that bore Him on missions of benevo- 
 lence were transfixed ; but the tongue which had spoken so many 
 precious words, declared " It is finished ;" and the morning of the 
 third day witnessed an emptied sepulchre. Can there then be as- 
 surance or encouragement of a stronger kind ? or a firmer pledge of 
 future glory and elevation ? for, as " he was delivered for our oftences, 
 he has been raised for our justification." Where now then is the 
 scandal of the cross ? Shall you ever be ashamed of acting in his 
 service ? Shall you not live, imitating the spotless purity of the 
 Lamb of God ? Shall you not die in the belief that God, who 
 spared not his own Son, " will with Him also freely give you all 
 things ;" that death is now " swallowed up of victory," and that 
 hereafter " the Lamb that is in the midst of them." Go, then, in 
 peace from the table of the Lord, and may the spirit of love and 
 peace abide with you for ever. Amen. 
 
 The nimibcr of table services, of course, varies according to 
 the amount of communicants who are present, and it is very 
 undesii-able unduly to protract the forenoon service. All having 
 communicated, who desu'e to do so, and the minister having 
 returned to the pulpit, invites the congregation to join with 
 him in praising God, after the manner of our Lord and his 
 disciples, who concluded the first celebration of the ordinance 
 L 
 
82 
 
 by the singing of a hymn. The minister then gives a few 
 
 parting words of advice or consolation appropriate to the 
 
 occasion. 
 
 doncluiing aiilrress. 
 
 My Friends and Brethren, — It is in accordance with usual prac- 
 tice, and as a* not unbefitting close of the present service, that we 
 should address to you a few words of exhortation. The elements of 
 communion of which you have partaken, are removed from sight. 
 The ordinance, as commanded by Jesus, and as practised among us, 
 has been attended to ; and after the services of this evening and of 
 the morrow, you will again be called upon to engage in your usual 
 and stated occupations. 
 
 Another Sabbath has dawned on us, and not a few of its hours 
 have sped. We have been called upon to engage in secret and 
 family devotion, — have come into the sanctuarj^, — have repeatedly 
 praised God with our lips, — have joined in prayer, and have heard 
 many words of exhortation. Such is the way in which no small 
 proportion of every Sabbath should be occupied. But, on this day, 
 and occurring appropriately at more distant intervals, we have eaten 
 of bread and di'unk wine in commemoration of Christ's death, and 
 have, many of us, I trust, been enabled to see " the king in his 
 beauty," and to contemplate the land that lieth afar off. Our foot- 
 steps have been conducted to Gethsemane and Calvary. We have 
 looked upon Jesus in the power of enemies, permitted to assail Him 
 — and have heard of solemn and touching discourses spoken to His 
 disciples preparatory to these events. We have been called on, in 
 the exercise of faith, to look on Jesus, invested with the thorny 
 crown, wearing the mock robe of homage, — a reeden sceptre put 
 into his hands, — and a band of Pilate's soldiers bending the knee to 
 Him in scorn, and saying, " Hail, king of the Jews." 
 
 That we could think of such treatment entirely unmoved, would 
 be an indication of the being devoid not only of the love of Chris- 
 tians, but of the ordinary feelings of humanity. He that suffered had 
 done no wrong, yet " grief w-as his companion" during His earthly 
 pilgrimage. We know, moreover, that the record of the gospel 
 history is true. There is no doubt, therefore, of the absolute vei'acity 
 of every incident stated to have taken place. What, then, let me 
 ask, is the sense of the evil of si7i which j-ou should, consequently, 
 be led to form ? How great should be your wonder at the compas- 
 sion and hng-sujiri7ig of God? How strongly should the flame of 
 gratitude burn within you towards One who hath " loved you and 
 
83 
 
 bought you with the price of His own blood ? Truly has it been averred 
 that when God would call into being the heavens and the earth, He 
 had but " to speak, and it was done : to command, and all things 
 did stand fast ;" while to redeem sinners of mankind — those who 
 were embraced within the design of the new covenant, — a new and 
 stupendous thing behoved to occur. The second person of the trinity 
 must become the "woman's seed." Christ must submit to un- 
 exampled humiliation, — be a persecuted wanderer, — a despised 
 preacher of i-ighteousness, — must bear the burden of His people's 
 transgressions, — and, in order to do so, must submit unto death, 
 even the painful and accursed death of the cross. 
 
 Let me then put the question to each one present, " What think 
 ye of Christ?" Were there ever love and endurance like unto His. 
 " A man," it is said, " that hath friends must shew himself friendly," 
 but here is "a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." " Greater 
 love," says St. Paul, " hath no man than this, that a man lay down 
 his life for his friend ; but God commendeth His love towards u?, in 
 that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." 
 
 What your opinions are regarding Christ, as to the glories of His 
 person, the strength of His love, and the greatness of His coming 
 triumph — we are bound, so far as can be judged of by an outward 
 act — to regard you as having expressed in coming to His table. 
 Before you " Christ Jesus has been set forth crucified ; " and before 
 the church, to the knowledge of the world, and in the view of God 
 Himself, you have vowed that you will be faithful to His service. 
 Never can you have reason to regret such a choice, for you cannot 
 serve a better fi-iend or be connected with a more liberal master. 
 Even now, I can conceive of some of you as ready to say with 
 Peter, " though I should die with Thee yet will I not deny Thee." 
 There is, however, such a thing as the fervour of an imagined 
 " first love " for Christ becoming cold ; while it behoves us to re- 
 member that even when professions of new obedience are made in 
 sincerity, we have powerful opponents within and without to con- 
 tend with. We have to resist, steadfast in faith, the great spiritual 
 adversary ; have to stand, with an unflinching front, as soldiers of 
 Christ, looking to our Captain's eye and orders ; ever bearing in 
 mind injunctions such as these, " Keep thine heart with diligence, 
 for out of it are the issues of life.'' " Watch and pray that ye enter 
 not into temptation." " Be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abound- 
 ing in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know^ that your labour 
 shall not be in vain, and that in due season ye shall reap if ye faint 
 
84 
 
 not." " Give diligence that your calling and election may be sure," 
 by a careful improvement of the means of grace which are afforded for 
 your use ; remembering that it is God that " worketh in you, to will 
 and to do of His good pleasure ; " and that only to such as are 
 *' faithful unto death," has " a crown of life " been promised. " Here- 
 in," said Jesus, " is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit ; 
 so shall ye be my disciples." 
 
 To those who for the first time, or but lately, have joined in this 
 service, let me address a single word. Rest not, I beseech you, in 
 " bodily exercise," or in exteraal approach, which " profits little " 
 indeed, by itself. There was another day when other hands gave 
 up some of you, that you might be set apart to the service of 
 God. These hands may now be mouldering in the dust, these voices 
 may be hushed in death. But did they die in the faith and love of 
 Jesus ; have you reason to think that there could be written above 
 their resting-place, "a Christian sleepeth here?"' Then are you 
 called upon to follow their example — bound to it as having been 
 taught to know the truth — doubly bound, because having professed 
 adherence to the Saviour's cause, you must take still greater "heed" 
 to yourselves, as ha-i-ing the " vows of the Lord " upon you, and as 
 thence called upon to resist temptation, avoid the appearance of evil, 
 and lay fast " hold upon eternal life." Seek then to live with 
 Jesus. Have frequent recourse to prayer. Take God's word in all 
 things to direct you. Aim at usefulness in your day and generation. 
 Slumber not as others do ; but try to be the means of achieving some 
 lasting good to the souls of your fellow-creatures. 
 
 Respecting none can it be said that they have a title to calculate 
 upon prolonged vigour of health and length of days. But so much the 
 longer that any live in this world, so much the less of time on earth 
 remains for each ; and the saying is true, " the young may, but the 
 old must die soon." It is no stretch, therefore, of imagination to con- 
 ceive to be assured, much more probable is it that there are those who 
 shall not see another communion Sabbath. The healthy and vigorous 
 may be removed, falling like grass before the mower's scythe. But in 
 the case of some, the " keepers of the house tremble, and the strong 
 men bow." What is the fruit then of past communions, many of which 
 you have attended ? Are you ripening for glory or for doom ? Are 
 any of you as insensible, as cold hearted, as grasping, as faithless to 
 Christianity as ever, as much set upon the earthly joys from which 
 you must soon part ? Suffer yet, once more, the word of admonition. 
 Do you read the Scriptures — do you pray in secret and with your 
 
85 
 
 household ? Awake then thou that sleepest, lest thou awake in hell — 
 for not regular church going, nor frequent communicating can be to 
 you of any service if you do not go to Christ and cleave to Him with 
 your whole hearts, as alone able to rescue and deliver you. 
 
 May God grant to all of us His blessing; may He make us monu- 
 ments of His mere}', and enable us to glorify His name. Amen. 
 
 A concluding prayer is then offered up. 
 
 PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION. 
 
 Heavenly Father, we beseech Thee to follow with Thine effectual 
 blessing, all the sacred and solemn service in which we have been 
 engaged. Let the lessons of instruction from Thy word sink deeply 
 into our hearts, and produce abundant fruit unto holiness. Let the 
 TOWS we have taken upon us ever be remembered ; and the obliga- 
 tions we have come under, influence the whole subsequent tenor of 
 our lives. 
 
 We praise Thee, especially, that thou hast spread for us a table 
 in the wilderness, and that we have been enabled to commemorate 
 the dying love of the Lord Jesus. May we preserve our fidelity to 
 the end, and may we bear in mind and strive to copy the example 
 He has left us, that we should walk in His steps. Confirm every 
 good resolution, every purpose of new obedience which we have 
 formed. May we count all things but loss for the excellency of His 
 knowledge ; press forward more diligently to the mark, and contin- 
 ually bear about the dying love of Christ, seeking that the life also 
 of Jesus may be manifest in our mortal bodies. 
 
 Preserve us from the snares of a subtle and vigilant spiritual 
 adversary : keep us from confidence and presumption, and wilful sin. 
 May we grow in grace, and be clothed with the whole armour of God, 
 having our feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of Jesus, tak- 
 ing the shield of faith, and having for an helmet the hope of salvation ; 
 80 that, as we have received the Lord Jesus, we may also walk in 
 Him, rooted and built up, and established in the faith. As having taken 
 the oath of allegiance to a celestial leader, may we follow through 
 good and through bad report the Captain of our salvation. As ex- 
 horted to look unto Him, our advocate and intercessor within the veil, 
 raay we come forward boldly to a throne of grace, and, there find 
 mercy to pardon and grace to help at every time of need. In pro- 
 sperity, may we be watchful ; in adversit}', submissive. In health, 
 may we bear in mind our need of spiritual healing ; in sickness, 
 may we lean upon the higher rock, and repose our confidence on the 
 
86 
 
 arm that made the universe. May we be joined to Thee in an ever- 
 lasting covenant ; that so living or dying, in time or throughout 
 eternity, we may be Thine, and Thine only. As we have joined our- 
 selves to the church militant on earth, may we also join the general 
 assembly and church of the first born in heaven, and be admitted 
 to the presence of God the judge of all ; of Jesus, the Mediator of 
 the New Covenant ; of an innumerable company of angels and 
 spirits of the just made perfect ; and of the whole host of heaven, 
 who shall serve Thee in the house not made with hands. 
 
 Pardon what Thy pure eyes have seen amiss in this day's ser- 
 vice. Forgive the preparation that has not been the preparation of 
 the sanctuary. Let the sins of those who have made an unwarrant- 
 able approach to Thy table be forgiven ; may they yet be taught to 
 know the value of the Saviour's presence ; and the preciousness of 
 the love of Jesus. Be gracious to thine aged servants, the period of 
 whose pilgrimage may be nearly closed. The Lord be their keeper, 
 and their shade upon their right hand, that they may not be moved. 
 Prosper and bless them who have this day joined themselves visibly 
 to the family of Jesus. Lord, keep them unspotted from the world. 
 Accept of the surrender they have made to Thy cause. Enable them 
 to maintain consistency, and to attain a rapid progress in the divine 
 life : bless them, henceforth, even for evermore, and make them a 
 blessing unto many. 
 
 Bless us, Lord, as a people. Let pastors and flock be blessed 
 more abundantly. Train up a rising generation as a seed to serve 
 Thee. Bless the elders of this parish, and may they be recom- 
 pensed abundantly for their work and labour of love. Refresh this 
 parched and weary spot. Keep Thy people in this parish, to whatever 
 communion they belong, stedfast to Thy service. Kich and poor 
 we commend alike to Thee, who art the Maker and Preserver of all. 
 Visit with Thy comfort the disconsolate, cheer the mourner and up- 
 hold the dying, that when heart and flesh faint aud fail. Thou may- 
 est be the stay of their hearts and their portion for ever. 
 
 Bless Thy church everywhere, and shew Thy favour to that por- 
 tion of it also with which we are more particularly connected. 
 Prosper the cause of pure Christianity and of vital religion. May 
 the boundaries of Messiah's kingdom be extended. Let the Gentiles 
 fear Thee, and may Thine ancient people be enlightened to discern 
 the glory of the sun of righteousness. 
 
 Be with us in singing a parting hymn of praise. Dismiss us 
 with Thy blessing thereafter. Let Thy presence be with us during 
 
87 
 
 the interval of worship, and come up with Thy serrnnt who is theu 
 to address us from the holy oracles. 
 
 The forenoon service is then closed by the singing of another 
 psalm or paraphrase, and by tlie pronouncing of the benedic- 
 tion. 
 
 afternoon or Cbrning Communion satfeat^ Snbtre. 
 
 This Service is conducted very much after the manner of 
 an ordinary liiet of worship, excepting that, in the devotional 
 portion peoidiar reference is appn.^priately made to the pre- 
 vious solemuit}', and a blessing is anew implgred upon the dis- 
 pensation of the Ordinance of the Lord's Supper, and those 
 who have joined in its celebration. The topics most appro- 
 priate to be noticed will readily "suggest themselves. The 
 discourse is to be regarded as a principal feature in this por- 
 tion of the day's work, and is appropriately of a practical, 
 rousing, or encom-aging description. 
 
 The specimen now given is intended to be chiefly of the 
 latter description, and is inserted simply in the ho|^ that it 
 may be somewhat usefid to those who have the Ciirly pro- 
 spect, amidst many engagements incidental to the season, of 
 preparing for this important and interesting part of Mini- 
 sterial duty. 
 
 THE HOUSE OF liANY MANSIONS. 
 
 *• lu my Father's bouse are many mansions : if it were not so, I would have told 
 \oii. I go to prepiue a i^lace for yon. And if I go and prepare a place for 
 you. I will come agjiin, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there 
 ye may be also." — Jobs xiv. '2. 3." 
 
 These words were spoken shortly before the period of our Lord's 
 sttfferings, when the hour was at hand that Jesus should depart out 
 of this world to the Father, and the earth in which he had consented 
 to sojourn for a time should cease to be the place of his peculiar 
 and personal abode. It is evident, that the apostles were but very 
 imperfectly alive to the exact nature of the incidents that were to 
 follow, had drawn difterent auguries from various preceding events, 
 and understood otherwise the language of prophecy regarding the 
 Messiah. Yet they had been warned by their Master, that he was 
 doomed to meet with rejection and refusal — insult and outrage — 
 suffering and abasement. And now he had told them plainly of 
 vhat was to happen — spoke of his removal, and foretold the treach- 
 
88 
 
 ery of one of their number. Perceiving that they were profoundly 
 agitated in consequence of these communications, the recital of which 
 the reverence and love they entertained rendered doubly painful ; 
 the same tenderness that made Jesus turn the conversation to points 
 connected with his agony and sorrow, in order that they might be 
 in some measure prepared for the shock, induced him now to dwell 
 upon topics of consolation, the full force of which they would after- 
 wards be better able to comprehend. These were intermingled with 
 most valuable counsels, and accompanied by an assurance, that 
 though soon to be no longer with them, their interests and those of 
 his believing people would be not less present to his thoughts. 
 Nay, his departure was altogether expedient and necessary. He 
 must finish the work given to him to do on earth — go to his Father 
 and theirs — to his God and tl^eir God. Nor, till he had ascended 
 on high, could the Comforter come, and that dispensation of the 
 Spirit commence, which was essential to the success of their ministry. 
 
 But the text was not intended to administer instruction and com- 
 fort only to the disciples. As meant to be the common property of 
 believers in every age, it may suggest to us some consolatory and 
 instructive thoughts. 
 
 The Lord Jesus here speaks as his people's sympathizing, gene- 
 rous, Almighty Friend ; declares the purpose of love he was fully 
 to execute ; and sets before his followers the recompence of reward 
 awaiting each of the faithful. He uses, 'too, on this occasion, the 
 language of conscious majesty and greatness ; while exhibiting him- 
 self as One who, though upon the eve of departure for a distant 
 country, was yet to have their interests most warmly at heart. 
 
 I. In the first place, his words describe that abode whither he was 
 about to proceed. " In my Father's house are many mansions." 
 From these glorious regions Jesus bad descended, shrouding his 
 dignity under a veil of flesh. Although the Eternal Son of God, 
 and the object of the Father's approbation and complacency, he was 
 "made in all things like unto his brethren;"' he appeared in the 
 weakness of infancy, gradually increased in stature, was exposed to 
 manifold trials and to all the sinless infirmities of our lot ; he came 
 in the power of Godhead, yet also in the weakness of humanity. 
 But he appeared as the great Prophet of the Church, to whom 
 there belonged a certain knowledge of the mysteries unseen by 
 mortal eye. He was therefore able to unveil the happiness which 
 his death was to purchase for his people ; and he now assured 
 the disciples of the full provision made for the reception of be- 
 
89 
 
 lievers into the abode that was preparcil from the Ibundatiou of the 
 world. 
 
 The portion of the righteous is represented in Scripture under a 
 great variety of images. Yet much lias not been told ; and our 
 ideas ai-e at best only general and imperfect. We must await fuller 
 disclosures and actual vision. On many other topics, the language 
 of Scripture is direct and plain ; our difficulty in comprehending it, 
 is caused chiefly by the grandeur of the subjects unfolded. But 
 when the saci'ed writers would tell us of the recompence of reward, 
 they seem to labour under a difficulty in conveying to ns adequate 
 notions of the glory hereafter to be revealed. Gorgeous images are 
 employed. Objects and advantages most prized on earth are adduced 
 as illustrative. Dazzling riches, loftiest honours, peace, repose, 
 and beauty, are set in contrast with the poverty, uncertainty, and 
 distraction of the present state. Volumes of harmony are described 
 as filling the dwelling-place above. A city is exhibited radiant in 
 its brightness, and having no need of the waning and waxing lumi- 
 naries of earth. An assemblage of worshippers — a countless host 
 are spoken of as convened, who stand before the throne of God and 
 of the Lamb, clad in the white robes of purity, and bearing in their 
 hands the triumphal palm. Sometimes an entirely ditierent arrange- 
 ment of matter is presented to thought. There is " a new heaven 
 and new earth," where no tear falls, no pain is felt, and no sin can 
 enter — formed after the old have disappeared. The people of God 
 are there subsequent to the resun-ection, when the solemn process of 
 judgment has been finished ; their frames, incorruptible and immortal, 
 are " fashioned like unto Chi-ist's glorious body," and hence must be 
 supposed to be much more purified and ethereal than those which 
 they at present possess. The throne of God is spoken of as set up, 
 and it is surrounded by obedient servants, once spiris dwelling in a 
 tabernacle of clay, but whose every bosom is animated by fealty 
 and love to the Supreme ; for the dwellers in that land are " kings 
 and priests unto God." 
 
 The description here given by our Saviour is of a different cast, 
 but not less beautiful and enticing. He calls heaven " My Father's 
 house." The ideas thus suggested, are capable of being applied to 
 the present state of Christians with peculiar appropriateness and 
 force. They are now exiles, " strangers, pilgrims.'' Their condi- 
 tion is that of vicissitude and imperfection. On earth they have 
 " no continuing city," and they must look forward in faith to one that 
 is yet to come. There is, however, in reserve for them a fixed and en- 
 M 
 
90 
 
 during habitation ; an abode ia prepared to which each of tlie faithful 
 shall, in due time, be admitted. Ties we may acknowledge upon 
 earth, most valuable and pi*ecious ; and during the period of our 
 stay, we may allowably contract a certain measure of attachment to 
 particular localities. Nor is it favourable to the happiness and ele- 
 vation of man that he should live apart, without definite connection 
 with some particular spot upon the globe. Thus the place of his 
 birth, the scenery amidst which he was reared, the companions and 
 guardians of early life, are fondly cherished and gratefully remem- 
 bered. But heaven is the Christian's proper residence .and home, 
 with which he is connected by a more direct, permanent, and en- 
 during bond. It is the abode of Christ, the presence-chamber of 
 the king, the place where the saints shall be assembled, and shall 
 fully enjoy their rest. It is not only the temple but the home. 
 Possessing every character of permanence ; adapted to contain all 
 the heirs of glory ; it is spoken of, perhaps, with an allusion (in- 
 tending also to remind us of its inalienable, inviolable sacredness) 
 to the numerous chambers comprised within the Jewish temple, as 
 containing " many mansions." While, therefore, it is our lot to 
 dwell as though in tabernacles below, exposed to adversity's furious 
 blast and piercing shower ; thence there shall be no dismission nor 
 any desire to be removed. A holy and happy kindred shall be as- 
 sembled, knit in brotherhood's closest bonds. Its " walls are salva- 
 tion, its gates are praise." Thither to each of the ransomed shall 
 an entrance be " ministered abundantly." For that we have the 
 assurance of the Lord. Had there been uncertainty, he would not 
 have concealed it. There is a claim, moreover, that will never be 
 gainsaid. It is the " Father's house," and the government of it is 
 intrusted to that Son who hath ransomed believers by the shedding 
 of his blood, and has wrought out a perfect obedience in their room 
 and stead, who " laid down his life " for them ; and if " children," 
 they are "heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ." "This 
 is my beloved Son," said the Father, ''in whom I am well pleased." 
 " When thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin he shall see 
 his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the Lord 
 shall prosper in his hands." " He shall see of the travail of his soul 
 and shall be satisfied. By his knowledge shall my righteous servant 
 justify many, for he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I 
 divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil 
 with the strong ; because he hath poured out his soul unto death ; 
 and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the 
 
91 
 
 s'n of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." For 
 believers, therefore, — for all the followers of Christ, the everlasting 
 gates stand open. The token and seal of the covenant on earth is 
 true ; and they may warrantably look forward to the ascending of 
 that high and holy hill. Even already their " fellowship is with the 
 Father," in and through Christ himself; and of all who shall believe 
 in Him to everlasting life, join themselves to him, lay hold on this 
 succour, and rest on this protection, has the Saviour said, unfolding 
 the riches of his matchless love, *' Henceforth I call you not servants ; 
 but I have called you friends." Friends of Jesus — how honourable 
 that title ! " Ye are my friends if ye do whatsoever I command you." 
 Yes, in the palace of the Great King, every one of his followers shall 
 find a place. " Bring my sons fi-om far, and my daughters from the 
 ends of the earth." However lofty the recompence, it is the rejoic- 
 ing of His benevolence, and it is accordant with the strictest justice 
 to bestow it. There is no barrier to frustrate the approach of any. 
 On behalf of all of them did Jesus prefer the supplication, speaking 
 with a voice that pleaded not in vain, and pointing to an object of 
 importance, and a scene of uumingled glory, " Father, I will that 
 they whom thou hast given me be with me where I am, that they 
 may behold my glory which thou hast given me." Hence he speaks 
 to his followers of the possession he has made their own, pledging to 
 it the gracious word — " In my Father's house are many mansions. 
 If it were not so I would have told you." The partners in his tribu- 
 lation are destined to be sharers in his glory. They who forsake 
 on his account shall not be left comfortless ; but " to him that over- 
 cometh will I grant to sit with me on my throne." " I give," he savs, 
 *' unto my sheep, eternal life." They are joined to the whole family in 
 heaven and upon earth, who possess in common a share of his regard 
 
 II. In the second place, the text contains the avowal of a purpose 
 cherished bt/ the Redeemer : " I go to prepare a place for you." To 
 those more immediately and originally referred to, this was an 
 announcement that Christ's suti'oriugs and departure were closely 
 connected with their highest well-being. 
 
 In the councils of eternity the plan of salvation had been formed. 
 Yet only when the " fulness of time,'' arrived, did Messiah appear on 
 earth. Now the momentous hour was at hand, when the heaven- 
 appointed sacrifice should be otfered, and the Lamb of God be slain. 
 The efficacy of the Redeemer's death was not indeed confined to the 
 period succeeding this; from the foundation of the world it had con- 
 
92 
 
 stituted the ground of pardon and acceptance. From age to age, fruits 
 of it were gathered as by anticipation, and earnests were afforded 
 of the harvest in coming times. Many there were who had seen that 
 day " afar off, and were glad." Places had been occupied ah'cady — ■ 
 to adopt the figure of the text — in that " house" above. Often before 
 had the repentance of a sinner afforded joy ; angels had guarded 
 the emancipated spirit ; and the souls of the faithful had entered into 
 rest. Patriarchs, prophets, martyrs, were already there ; and many 
 a humble believer had departed from this world in the hope and pro- 
 spect of immortal bliss. But the great enterprise to which the Lord 
 Jesus now proceeded was essential for all ; the decease at Jerusalem 
 was the crowning act of the obedience of our Surety, as it was that 
 on which depended the acceptance of his people. It was needful that 
 thus the divine law should be magnified, and God's displeasure at sin 
 marked most signally even on a victim so illustrious ; who, though 
 himself spotless, was treated as if he had been guilty. 
 
 It is impossible or any other principle than that of vicarious sub- 
 stitution, to account for certain phenomena noticeable in the deport- 
 ment of the Lord Jesus towards the closing period of his stay on 
 earth. Hence the mysterious cloud that settled on his spirit, and 
 the plaintive cry of abandonment that escaped from him on the cross. 
 Hence the extremity of anguish and oppression he endured, when, 
 in the garden, his " sweat was as great drops of blood falling to the 
 ground." Hence the permission of the powers of darkness to assail 
 him ; and the fact that mortal hands were allowed to seize, bind, 
 and crucify the Lord of glory. But he was " delivered for cur 
 offences," as he was " raised for our justification ;" the " chastisement 
 of our peace" was exacted of him, and " by his stripes we are healed." 
 Why otherwise should the righteous die for the unholy, and the Son 
 of the Highest bear his bosom to the stroke ? Unparalleled great- 
 ness of redeeming love ! Well may it prompt the last words in 
 time and afford a theme for the anthems of eternity itself I Yes, men 
 might be insensible — might look carelessly and even hatingly upon 
 a crucified Redeemer. What they saw should have rebuked them. 
 They might insolently bend the knee, and utter the taunting word, 
 as though this had been a mortal only. But nature was 7iot silent : 
 the universe acknowledged ; the rocks were split, the temple veil was 
 rent, the sun was darkened, the dead appeared. The circles of the 
 blessed were not unobservant ; they gazed with wonder and awe upon 
 the scene. Even the regions of despair were moved ; and the defeated 
 hosts of hell recoiled from the spectacle with dismay. 
 
93 
 
 This, however, is not the full amount of the expression we are 
 now considering. ^Yhen the Redeemer said, " I go to prepare a place 
 for you," he did not mean, that with the endurance on the cross, 
 where he fully discharged the claims of justice, (of -which evidence 
 was given in his resurrection from the dead) there remained no more 
 for him to do in order to the reception of his people into glory. One 
 part only of his priestly office was thus completed. He had made 
 atonement. But he was also, as the " forerunner " of believers, to 
 enter heaven, where he reigns as " head over all things to the 
 church." It is said, accordingly, in the Epistle to the Hebrews, 
 " Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a 
 greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands," " not 
 with the blood of goats and calves, but with his own blood, entered 
 in once into the holy place." As the high priest of old upon the 
 day of atonement, after slaying the lamb, which was required to be 
 " without spot or blemish," having taken in a vessel a portion of its 
 blood, went with it into the holy of holies, and there sprinkling the 
 mercy-seat with the blood, made intercession for the people, who 
 stood praying without, and anxiously awaiting the re-appearance of 
 their priestly head — so Jesus, the " minister of the true sanctuary," 
 himself both the priest and victim, having offered up sacrifice, en- 
 tered into heaven, there to appear for us in the presence of God. 
 This part of Christ's priestly office remains. It is most needful and 
 precious. " We," says the apostle John, after urging believers to 
 follow after holiness, " we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus 
 Christ the righteous;" whose affectionate interest is av.ake in be- 
 half of all who have been given to him ; who is acquainted with the 
 case of each, knows their weakness, and " ever liveth that he may 
 intercede." Of however little account, then, a believer may be in 
 the estimate of men, yet he has a part in the solicitude of One who 
 cares for and loves his people to the end. For all such, heaven and 
 earth have been connected by an unseen yet indestructible and Al- 
 mighty bond. Hence " there is no condemnation to any who are 
 in Christ." Theirs is the blessedness of those to whom God im- 
 putes not guile. Nor will their progress be unaided as they would 
 advance in godliness, maintain " the good fight of faith," and con- 
 tend against " the devil, the world, and the flesh." The followers 
 of Jesus are accordingly encouraged to go forward by the considera- 
 tion that his presence will be with them, and that he will conduct 
 them unto rest. The desert path may be rough, the ascent steep, 
 the foes manv and malignant. But "in the name of the Lord thev 
 
94 
 
 are encouraged to set up their banners." " Greater is he who is for 
 them, than all that can be against them."' " Thou hast a little love 
 — thou hast kept the faith, and thou hast not denied my name." In 
 his grace, and by his watchfulness, may they hope to be preserved ; 
 and he bids them " be of good cheer,' for " he has overcome the 
 ■world." Let them, therefore, make and hold fast to the good pro- 
 fession. Let no allurement relax their vigilance, nor any threatened 
 violence affright them. He is even now preparing for them '' places 
 in the Father's house." Day by day he is making intercession ; 
 and still the sinner is assured of welcome and free access ; until at 
 length the appointed hour has come, when the last soul shall have been 
 redeemed from bondage, to rescue which his blood was shed ; when 
 the last sinner has been sanctified and made meet for " the inherit- 
 ance of the saints in light." Then will He be revealed '* in the glory 
 of his Father, and the holy angels with him,"' coming that his fol- 
 lowers may be invested with the full measure of promised bliss. 
 
 III. In the third place, our Lord assured the disciples, that his 
 absence would not le perpetual. He was repeatedly seen after the 
 resuiTCction, so as to dispel every doubt respecting the completeness 
 of his undertaking, and the fulness of his victory. Gathered at the 
 expirv of these occasional visits and of that short sojourn, they wit- 
 nessed the ascension — beheld him quit the place of his sinless sor- 
 rows — and saw him arise from the earth that had been ennobled by 
 his stay, until be was concealed from view by the intervening cloud. 
 Awaiting in Jerusalem the promise of the Father, they found, in 
 the communication of the Spirit and descent of the Holy Ghost, the 
 presence and bestowal of the gracious Comforter regarding whom 
 their Master spoke. But the reference made here, is to an event 
 that was not to happen till long after they, released from the field of 
 strife, should have entered the intermediate state — each awaiting, 
 in his uprightness, the general resurrection. " And if I go and 
 prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto 
 myself." 
 
 There may indeed be a more immediate meaning assigned to these 
 words, as though they were intended to give assurance that the Re- 
 deemer's care embraces the invisible world and the unseen state, 
 "Whither, accordingly, does the righteous go, when he departs, but 
 to be " with Christ?" Why the weakness of the body and the 
 sinking of the strength, the failing vision and the labouring breath ? 
 Doubtless it is the debt of nature, or rather of sin ; but it is also the 
 
95 
 
 hour when support is given, and a celestial presence is at hand. It 
 is Christ approaching to his own; it is the Redeemer's summons, 
 " Come up hither " — the signal for leaving an abode of weariness 
 and pain, and for transference to a state of peace, rest, and joy. 
 Like the material sun, life is ebbing ; but the orb of day is only 
 temporai'ily hid when he seems to sink into the ocean chambers — 
 he is shining still upon other climes, and fulfilling there his appointed 
 course. At a given period the portals of light will be unbarred, and 
 slumbering cities and silent fields will together be greeted by his 
 smile. "To-day," said our Lord to the expiring malefactor, and 
 when in his own extremity of suftcring, " to-day shalt thou be with 
 me in paradise." "To depart and to be with Christ," exclaimed St. 
 Paul, " it is better " than to linger upon earth. " He leadeth me," 
 says David, " in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake." " I 
 will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Yea, though I walk 
 through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for 
 thou art with me." Yes ; all things are under the Mediator's sway. 
 Not only does he sustain the Christian's life, but he guards also his 
 people's death, and their very dust is precious in his sight. Need, 
 then, the believer fear a dissolved terror and a vanquished foe ? His 
 " flesh may rest in hope," even in the lowly chamber — his spirit is 
 transferred, when it quits the body, to the presence of his Saviour 
 and his God. 
 
 It is not, however, merely or even chiefly to this that our Saviour 
 seems now to have alluded, but to his visible, exalted advent, when 
 he shall come a second time, " without sin unto salvation," for the 
 purpose of winding up this world's economy, of proclaiming the eter- 
 nal destiny of each child of Adam — of consigning the wicked to the 
 full measure of their punishment — and of welcoming the righteous 
 before an assembled universe. " Behold he cometh with clouds, and 
 every eye shall see him." Once he came in lowliness and weakness, 
 but then it will be in power and might, to take vengeance on his 
 foes. Once his followers were only a i&w — then the thousands of 
 the angelic hosts shall be in attendance, and all his righteous ser- 
 vants shall lift up their heads with joy. Once a crown of thorns 
 was round his sacred head — then that countenance will be brighter 
 than the sun. Every mortal will be there ; every sleeper must 
 obey the summons, " Come to judgment." Yet even then his people 
 need not fear. It is the Saviour, loved and served by them on 
 earth, that occupies the throne ; and this delaration gives assurance 
 of their safety, " Whosoever shall confess me before men " — it may 
 
96 
 
 have been the humblest labourer or even the weakest child—" him 
 will I confess before ray Father and his holy angels." Their hearts, 
 accordingly, need not be troubled when the souls of others fail them 
 for fear. United to Jesus as his own, and purified from every stain — 
 fitted for the loftiest privileges, and possessors of undying life — their 
 security is complete. Christ will present thern to the Father 
 " blameless." When he comes again, not one out of the whole 
 number will be forgotten, but they shall follow in his train unto the 
 everlasting dwelling place that has been prepared from the birth of 
 time — the place where God himself " shall be all in all." 
 
 IV. In the, fourth place, our Lord here gives his people an inti- 
 mation of the nature of that bliss of which they are then to be made 
 partakers — " that where I am, there ye may be also." This happi- 
 ness is connected with the contemplation of his glory and the mani- 
 festation of his presence — they shall " be like him, for they shall see 
 him where he is." If, accordingly, his presence was so desirable 
 upon earth — his favour so prized, his ordinances loved, and his hon- 
 our dear — of what mutual satisfaction shall that intei-course and fel- 
 lowship be then productive? To him they will ascribe the praise of 
 their deliverance. He will " feed them and lead them by living 
 fountains of waters." If the trials formerly gone through are at all 
 remembered, it will be only as heightening the security and bliss of 
 which they shall then be conscious. AYhat delight, then, in survey- 
 ing the felds of providence — what wonder in contemplating the 
 w orks and ways of God — what congenial intercourse with the holy 
 and tndy eminei.t of all ages — may be included in the portion of the 
 heirs of glory ! At least we are assured, that no blank will then be 
 felt ; and that little as our faculties may yet be able to understand 
 it, the inheritar.ee of the righteous, the accompaniments of the Fa- 
 ther's house, W'll be such, that every longing expectation which 
 Scripture authorizes will be more than gratified. 
 
 Be it remembered, however, that this is the portion solely of the 
 righteous^ and that none but they are qualified to enjoy it. Hence 
 the importance of the present season, and the indispensable need of 
 applying " all diligence," that the calling and election may be made 
 sure. Learn therefore to rise above a passing world, and desire to 
 act in all things as the children of immortality should do. The pro- 
 mises of God are no doubt sure and steadfast, but their application 
 is to those alone who are being renewed after his image. His ordi- 
 nances are intended and adapted to promote our growth in grace j 
 
but they cannot he profitable if they amount only to an outward 
 form. Here we are bidden to " walk by faith, and not by sight " 
 — ^to " set our affections on the things that are above" — and to 
 live in a heavenly, self-denied, and holy manner. Without this, 
 it is declared that none can '* see the Lord ; " and only in so far as 
 these designs are being answered can we be considered as preparing 
 for the mansions of eternal bliss. Let us therefore aim at the attain- 
 ment of this rest : then may we derive from the Redeemer's assur- 
 ance to his disciples that comfort which it is well adapted to convey. 
 Bear in mind, then, my Christian friends, at once the obligations 
 laid upon you, and the recompence to which you are encouraged to 
 look forward ; when, present with the Saviour, your condition shall be 
 perfect, complete, and glorious. Shall the soul — to ransom which 
 Jesus died — forget or refuse to recognise its lofty destiny ? Shall 
 the body, which is hereafter to be made like his, become an instru- 
 ment of defilement ? Shall the example He gave ever be forgotten, 
 or the course He calls upon you to prosecute be forsaken ? " So 
 run, therefore, that you may obtain." So watch that ye may not be 
 surprised. Faithfid is he whose promises are recorded ; let it be 
 your aim to prove faithful to his service. 
 
 If 1 am now addressing those who feel that they have not an in- 
 terest in this promise, and that the happiness declared to be in store 
 for the followers of Jesus is not such as could afford to them delight; 
 let me earnestly exhort them to ponder the alternative. When the 
 Re-deemer comes again, it will also be to take vengeance upon those 
 who refused to hear his voice, and who set at nought the overtures 
 of his mercy. Xo doubt, their fate was sealed before ; the delusion 
 imder which they laboured was dispersed when the mortal life came 
 to a close. How solemn to look upon the figure of the departed, and 
 to bear in mind that the spirit once animating that clay now knows 
 its state, has done with time, and has become absorbed in the gloom 
 or splendour of eternity — that, in the former case, the period has 
 for ever passed, during which the blood of the great Sacrifice avails. 
 Let none delay to seek an interest in Christ, cleaving to the ini- 
 quity that must finally be their ruin. Entreat his aid before that 
 night comes on ; else it will be marked by ray less gloom, agony, 
 and despair. Be persuaded to join the disciples of the Lord, since 
 those only can be safe or truly happy who give themselves up to 
 Him in a prrpetual covenant. While all who do wickedly must 
 fear before Him, blessed shall they be who trust in Him that is 
 mighty to give deliverance in the hour of trial. Under his protec- 
 N 
 
98 
 
 tion they need " fear no evil,"nor should they murmur under any 
 deprivation. For, in his time of greatest majesty and triair.ph, 
 Christ will make his people participate in the honour with which he 
 is to be invested, when " every knee shall bow to him, and every 
 tongue confess " that he is Lord. " The work of righteousness shall 
 be peace, and the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance for 
 ever." Amen. 
 
 CToncIuIring ^3raj)er. 
 
 We bless Thee, Lord, for the renewed opportunity which we 
 have enjoyed of worshipping in the sanctuary, and thank Thee that, 
 this day, we have been permitted to approach the place where Thine 
 honour dwelleth ; have been led to view, in mingling with the assembly 
 of Thy people, and in the hallowed rest of which we have partaken, 
 an image and reflection of the holy employment of Thy servants, 
 who have been relieved from the burden of the flesh, and now serve 
 God without weariness, day and night, in the temple above. 
 Quicken us that we may again call upon Thy name ; and, having 
 this day been privileged to join in that solemn and most comfort- 
 ing ordinance which commemorates the decease once accomplished 
 at Jerusalem, may we be filled with thankfulness that we have 
 enrolled ourselves among the followers of the Lamb, and that the 
 broken body and shed blood of Christ have been represented to 
 us by the bread and wine of which Thy people have partaken. 
 
 Impress upon our hearts a vivid and influential remembrance 
 of what we have this day heard of the word of life. The vows 
 of the Lord God are now upon us. The bread which was broken 
 was the communion of the body of Christ, and the cup which 
 was poured out was the communion of His blood. Under solemn 
 if silent protestations of gratitude and obedience, we have partaken 
 of this sacred feast. May we remember that he who is joined 
 unto the Lord is called upon to be one in spirit with Him, seeking 
 to adorn his doctrine, and live to the glory of Him who calls 
 sinners out of darkness into the marvellous light of the truth. 
 
 Thy vows are upon us ; let our hope and trust be placed in 
 Thee. As enrolled beneath the banner of the Prince of Peace, 
 keep us from the snares of the devil, of the world, and of the 
 flesh. Enable us to follow the Captain of our salvation, who was 
 made perfect through sufferings ; who, dying as a ransom for His 
 people, has also left them an example that they should follow His 
 steps, who was holy, harmless, undefilcd, and separate from sinners ; 
 
99 
 
 in whose mouth there was found no guile, and who went about 
 doing good. 
 
 Be gracious, Lord, to every member of Thy church. Do good 
 in Thine own pleasure unto Zion, and build up the walls of Jerusa- 
 lem. May her ministers be diligent and successful in discharging 
 the momentous duties with which they are entrusted. 
 
 Have mercy upon all who sit in darkness and in the shadow of 
 death. Have mercy on the tempted and soiTO\\-ful. Comfort the 
 mournful and desponding. ^lay the prisoners be relieved, and the 
 slaves of sin and Satan be set free from bondage ! 
 
 Keep us steadfast, Lord in the faith, fear, and love of Thee. 
 Kefresh Thine heritage when it is weary. Revive Thy work among 
 us : strengthen the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees. Be 
 Thou our father : Thou, King of kings, our Protector, and Thou, 
 merciful Redeemer, our unfailing Friend. 
 
 And to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be all praise 
 ascribed, world without end. Amen. 
 
100 
 
 Occasional Scrbtccft, 
 
 THE LICENSING OF PE0BATI0NEK8 FOR THE MINISTRY. 
 
 The preliminary steps necessary to be taken, and the quaUfi- 
 cations requisite in the view of the Church, will be found clearly 
 detailed in Dr Hill's work on the " Practice of the Several Judi- 
 catories of the Church of Scotland," to which reference may be 
 made by those desirous of full information on the subject. On 
 the conclusion of the trials of the applicant, which embrace 
 an inquiry into his proficiency in the literary, philosophical, 
 and theological studies which he has prosecuted at the Univer- 
 sity, and which also include the delivery of certain prescribed 
 discourses, amongst which are a lecture and a popular sermon, 
 that a specimen may be given of the applicant's aptitude to 
 officiate in public, a " conjunct view" of the whole is taken, 
 and if that be satisfactory in the opinion of the Presb}i;ery of 
 the bounds, the following questions are put to him : — 
 
 1. Do you believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments 
 to be the word of God, and the only rule of faith and manners ? 
 
 2. Do you sincerely own and believe the whole doctrine of the 
 Confession of Faith, approven by the General Assembly of the Na- 
 tional Church, and ratified by law in the year 1690, and frequently 
 confirmed by divers acts of Parliament since that time, to be the 
 truths of God, contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Tes- 
 taments ; and do you own the whole doctrine therein contained as 
 the confession of your faith ? 
 
 3. Do you sincerely own the purity of worship presently autho- 
 rized and practised in this Church, and asserted in Act 15th Gen- 
 eral Assembly 1707, entitled. Act against innovation in the worship 
 of God ; and do you also'own the Presbyterian government and dis- 
 cipline now so happily established in this Church ; and are you per- 
 suaded that the said doctrine, worship, and discipline, and Church 
 government, are founded upon the Holy Scriptures, and agreeable 
 thereto? 
 
 4. Do you promise that, through the grace of God, you will firmly 
 and constantly adhere to, and in your station, to the utmost of your 
 power, assert, maintain, and defend the said doctrine, worship, and 
 discipline, and the government of this Church, by Kirk-sessions, 
 Presbyteries, Provincial Synods, and General Assemblies ? 
 
101 
 
 5. Do you promise that, in your practice, you will conform your- 
 self to the said worship, and submit yourself to the said discipline 
 and government of this Church; and you shall never endeavour, di- 
 rectly or indirectly, the prejudice or subversion of the same ? 
 
 6. Do you promise that you shall follow no divisive course from 
 the present establishment in this Church ? 
 
 7. Do you renounce all docti-ines, tenets, or opinions whatsoever, 
 contrary to, or inconsistent with, the said doctrine, worship, discip- 
 line, and government of this Church ? 
 
 8. Do you promise that you will subject yourself to the several 
 judicatories of this Church, and are you willing to subscribe to 
 these things ? 
 
 Having given satisfactory answers to these questions, the student 
 subscribes the formula, in which the substance of the questions are 
 embodied. The act against simony. Act 8, Assembly 1759, is then 
 read to him in presence of the presbytery; the moderator is appointed 
 to license him to preach the gospel ; and the clerk is ordered to fur- 
 nish him with an extract of his license. 
 
 The formula must be subscribed before licence is obtained ; and 
 presbyteries are not allowed to use any other formula but that which 
 is prescribed by Act 10, Assembly 1711. 
 
 In some presbyteries the Court engage, previously to the 
 licensing of the student, in prayer to the great Head and 
 King of the Church, that He would he gi-aciously pleased, by 
 His word and spirit, to qualify him for the important duties 
 in wliich he is about to engage. He then says — 
 
 " In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, the great King and Head 
 of the Church, and by authority of this Presbytery, I do now license 
 you to preach the gospel of Christ, and to exercise your gifts as a 
 probationer for the Holy Ministry." 
 
 The moderator and the members of Presb}iery present, 
 here give the person licensed the right hand of fellowship. 
 
 After which a suitable exhortation bearing on the duties of 
 the pastoral office wliich he seeks to discharge — on the right 
 method of preaching, on the keeping up habits of study and 
 scriptural research, and especially on the need of cultivating 
 personal holiness, is then delivered by the moderator of the 
 Presbytery. 
 
102 
 
 (©ruination of a itttnister. 
 
 The ordination of any individual to the office of the Ministry, 
 as it is gone about according to the practice of the Church of 
 Scotland, is a solemn and interesting procedure. The Pres- 
 bytery of the bounds within which the vacant parish is situ- 
 ated, having sustained the presentation, and the presentee 
 having preached on a Sabbath and on a week-day before the 
 congregation — the Presbytery Hkewise, having taken trial of 
 his gifts ; his edict having, ten days previously, been duly 
 served, and no objections to his settlement having been offered 
 on the part of the parishioners or members of the congrega- 
 tion, the Presbytery meet, upon the appointed day, at the 
 church, and their moderator, pro tempore, constitutes the meet- 
 ing of Presbytery with prayer. Even at this latest stage of 
 the procedm-e, objections, as affecting the life and character of 
 the presentee, may be offered, and proclamation to that effect 
 is made at the church door by the officer of the Presbytery. 
 No objection having been made, the moderator proceeds to 
 the pulpit, and goes through the ordinary exercises of worship, 
 commencing as usual, with praise and prayer, appropriately 
 followed by the reading of a passage of scripture, suitable to 
 the occasion of meeting. He then preaches a discourse, which 
 may very appropriately relate to the duties of the Christian 
 Ministry, and may, without impropriety, as in the case of ser- 
 mons preached at the opening of the Provincial Synod, or of 
 the General Assembly, partly by a " concio at cleros." After 
 a psalm has been sung, the presiding minister proceeds as 
 follows : — 
 
 The minister intimates that A. B. (the person who is to be 
 ordained), having received a presentation from C. D., the legal 
 
 Patron to the vacant parish of ; and the Presbytery 
 
 having made trial of his qualifications for the ministry, and 
 being satisfied therewith, liis call having been moderated, the 
 edict for ordination having been served, and returned duly 
 executed and indorsed, warning all persons having any objec- 
 tions against his being admitted minister of said parish, to 
 lodo-e the same with the Presbytery, that they may be cog- 
 
103 
 
 nosced ; proclamation to the same efiect having also been this 
 day made, at the most patent door of the church, and no ob- 
 jections offered — (or objections having been oftered and dis- 
 posed of, as the case may be) — the Presbytery are now to pro- 
 ceed to his ordination as minister of this parish by prayer and 
 the imposition of hands. But, in order that they (the people) 
 might be satisfied of his soundness in the Chi'istian faith, he 
 (the officiating clergyman) would now put to him the ques- 
 tions appointed by the act of Assembly, to be put to ministers 
 at their ordination. The presentee is then called upon to 
 give satisfactory answers to the following questions. 
 
 1. Do you believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments 
 to be the Word of God, and the only rule of faith and manners ? 
 
 2. Do you sincerely o^vn and believe the whole doctrines con- 
 tained in the Confession of Faith, approven by the General Assem- 
 blies of this Church, and ratified by law in the year 1690, to be 
 founded upon the Word of God ; and do you acknowledge the same 
 as the confession of your faith ; and will you firmly and constantly 
 adhere thereto, and to the utmost of your power assert, maintain, 
 and defend the same, and the purity of worship as presently prac- 
 tised in this National Church, and asserted in Act XV., Assembly 
 1707, entitled. Act against innovations in the Worship of God? 
 
 3. Do you disown all Popish, Arian, Socinian, Armenian, Bourig- 
 nian, and other doctrines, tenets, and opinions whatsoever, contrary 
 to, and inconsistent with, the foresaid Confession of Faith ? 
 
 4, Are you persuaded that the Presbyterian Government and 
 discipline of this Church are founded upon the Word of God, and 
 agreeable thereto ; and do you promise to submit to the said govern- 
 ment and discipline, and to concur with the same, and never to 
 endeavour, directly or indirectly, the prejudice or subversion thereof, 
 but to the utmost of your power, in your station, to maintain, sup- 
 port, and defend the said discipline and Presbyterian Government 
 by Kirk-sessions, Presbyteries, Provincial Synods, and General 
 Assemblies, during aU the days of your life ? 
 
 5. Do you promise to submit yourself willingly and humbly, in 
 the spirit of meekness, unto the admonitions or the brethren of this 
 Presbytery, and to be subject to them, and all other Presbyteries, 
 and superior judicatories of this Church, where God inllis providence, 
 shall cast your lot ; and that, according to your power, you shall 
 maintain the unity and peace of this Church against error and schism. 
 
104 
 
 notwithstanding of whatsoever trouble and persecution may arise, 
 and that you shall follow no divisive courses from the present estab- 
 lished doctrine, worship, discipline, and government of this Church ? 
 
 6. Are not zeal for the honour of God, love to Jesus Christ, and 
 desire of saving souls, your great motives and chief inducements to 
 enter into the function of the holy ministry, and not worldly designs* 
 and interest ? 
 
 7. Have you used any undue methods, either by yourself or others, 
 in procuring this call ? 
 
 8. Do you engage, in the strength and grace of Jesus Christ our 
 Lord and Master, to rule well your own family ; to live a holy and 
 circumspect life ; and faithfully, diligently, and cheerfully, to dis- 
 charge all the parts of the ministerial work, to the edification of the 
 body of Christ ? 
 
 9. Do you accept of, and close with, the call to be pastor of this 
 parish, and promise, through grace, to perform all the duties of a 
 faithful minister of the Gospel among this people. 
 
 The minister tlien descends from the pulpit to the place 
 where the presentee and the members of Presbj'tery, and such 
 other ordained ministers as may be present, are seated. And 
 the person to be ordained alone kneehng, and the whole con- 
 gregation standing, he pronounces the ordination prayer. 
 When the officiating minister comes to implore the Divine 
 blessing on the person now to be set apart to the office of the 
 ministry, he, along with aR the ordained ministers present, 
 puts his hand upon the head of the person who still continues 
 kneeling. 
 
 Lord God Almighty 1 who dwellest not in temples built with 
 hands, but inhabitest eternity and the praises thereof, yet whose 
 regards are with the sons of men ; who art surrounded continually 
 by the praises of the hosts above, and art served by angels who re- 
 joice unwearedly to execute Thy commands, yet who hearkenest to 
 the prayers of Thy people, and wilt regard their cry ; behold we 
 come before Thee to make mention of Thy greatness and Thy good- 
 ness ; to supplicate Thy favour and the blessings of Thy grace. 
 
 Adored be Th}'^ name, not only for the provision Thou hast made 
 to supply our temporal wants, for the unwearied bounty and care 
 which have attended our past years - for the eyes that have been 
 preserved from tears, and the feet that have been kept from falling, 
 
105 
 
 but still more for the exalted prospect to which Thou hast encouraged 
 us to aspire -for the forgiveness of sins and the remission of offecces, 
 oflfered in the Gospel of Thy Son -for the assurance that there is no 
 condemnation to such as are in Ilim, — for the exalted privilege and 
 lofty delight of spending our lives in Thy service, and giving our- 
 selves up in cheerful obedience to Thy commands. 
 
 By Thy grace and mercy toward us in Christ Jesus hast Thou set 
 Thy glory above the heavens. Just and true are all Thy ways, 
 Thou King of Saints ! Stable is the foundation Thou hast laid, 
 abounding the compassion shewn to the guilty and the lost. Never 
 didst Thou leave Thyself without a witness of Th}' purposes of 
 mercy to the fallen ; but even at the fall didst give promise of the 
 seed of the woman that should braise the head of the serpent — of 
 the Messiah that should be stricken for the transgressions of the 
 people - of the substitute who was to magnify the law and make it 
 honourable — of the Saviour who was to be lifted on the cross to draw 
 men unto Ilim — to finish transgression and make an end of sin, and 
 bring in everlasting righteousness. Lo ! this is our God, we have 
 waited for Ilim ; this is our Saviour, whom we would magnify and 
 adore and serve. lie has accomplished the work given Ilim to do ; He 
 has finished transgression, made an end of sin, and brought in ever- 
 lasting righteousness ; He is exalted as a Prince and a Saviour to 
 give repentance to Isi-ael, and the remission of sins ; He has spoiled 
 principalities and powers, and make a shew of them openly. May 
 our understanding be enlightened to discern the truth, - our wills be 
 moulded to His — and our hearts be prepared to receive Him — that 
 we may be His by indissoluble union — that He may be formed in us 
 the hope of glory. 
 
 We bless Thee that he took upon Ilim our nature, and is not 
 ashamed to call us brethren — that He is a merciful and faithful high- 
 priest in things pertaining unto God — that He ever liveth to make 
 intercession — is touched with a feeling of our infirmities, and is able 
 to succour them that are tempted — and that He will come again to 
 receive His people to Himself. Blessed be the God and Father of 
 our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Blessed be He who came in 
 the name of the Lord to save us — who hath visited His people and 
 redeemed them by the shedding of His precious blood. Blessing 
 and honour and glory and praise be unto Him that sitteth on the 
 Throne, and to the Lamb that was slain ! 
 
 We praise and tliank Thee, that on us the day-spring from on 
 high has arisen to guide our steps into the path of life ; that our 
 
 
106 
 
 lot has not been cask in a land of darkness and idolatry ; that we 
 are privileged with the enjoyment of Thine ordinances ; that we 
 may worship Thee according to our conscience, none daring to make 
 us afraid ; that Thou hast continued amongst us, an order of men 
 to proclaim Thy truth, and to impress it on the hearts of the 
 people, and bring it to their remembrance ; that Thou who didst of 
 old raise up prophets and send forth apostles, hast given pastors and 
 teachers, for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the minis- 
 try, and for the edifying of the body of Christ. 
 
 If Thou, Lord, shouldst mark iniquity, who could stand in Thy 
 sight ? Our sins testify against us ; and wert Thou to set them in 
 array before us, how should we be overwhelmed with the remem- 
 brance of duties omitted, of mercies despised, of knowledge abused, 
 and opportunities neglected ; how must we have mourned under a 
 sense of guilt, ingratitude, and folly 1 Our own hearts condemn us, 
 and Thou, who art greater then our hearts, knowest all things. 
 From Thee our foolishness has not been hid : Thou hast set our 
 iniquities before Thee, and brought our secret sins into the light of 
 Thy presence. 
 
 But we rejoice that Thy thoughts and purposes are those of mercy 
 — that judgment is Thy strange work that Thou hast no pleasure 
 in the death of the wicked ! but rather that he should turn from his 
 sinfulness and live. Oh visit us with Thy mercy : deal with us 
 according to Thine abundant grace, extended in Christ Jesus even 
 unto the chief of sinners. May we be united to the Saviour by a 
 true and living faith — be His adopted children and genuine disciples. 
 Mav we fear to offend Him, and remain constantly under a sense of 
 unmerited mercy and redeeming love. 
 
 We bless Thee that Thy Church has been continued in the world 
 
 that the gates of hell have not prevailed against her ; and that, 
 
 though the time of miracles has long since ceased, there never have 
 been wanting ministers of the Gospel and preachers of the AVord. 
 Thou hast continued to raise up faithful men, who should be able to 
 teach others also, In discharge of a risen Saviour's commission, Go, 
 preach the Gospel to every creature. 
 
 We thank Thee that Thou hast established a Church in our 
 native land, and we beseech Thee to bless all her ministers that Thy 
 pleasure may indeed prosper In their hands. Be as a wall of fire 
 around our Zion, and the glory in the midst of her. 
 
 Especially at this time, we beseech Thee, to pour out on Thy ser- 
 vant abundantly, the grace of the Holy Spirit. 
 
107 
 
 (Here the officiating Minister and the other members of 
 Presbyteiy place their hands on the liead of the Presentee 
 who is kneeling before them). 
 
 Whom, in Tby name and by Thine own authority, we now set 
 apart to the oftice of the holy ministry. Lay liberally to his hand, 
 in the exercise of His sacred calling among this people. Mav lie 
 be a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the 
 word of truth. Sustain hiai in bodily strength. Give him wisdom 
 and spiritual discernment. May he keep his trust with diligence. 
 May his studies be prospered, and may he be enabled to feed alike 
 the sheep and the lambs of the fold. Bless him abundantly, Lord ; 
 may he be a source of blessing to many ; and when Jesus the chief 
 Shepherd shall appear, may he receive a crown of glory that shall 
 never fade away. 
 
 Hallow, Lord, we beseech Thee, the bond that now connects 
 this pastor and this people. May they wait with punctuality and 
 attention upon his ministrations ; and may they mutually seek to be 
 heirs together of the grace of life, seeking the kingdom that never 
 shall be moved, and desirous of growing in grace and in the know- 
 ledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. 
 
 Hear and accept of us we beseech Thee, for the sake of Christ 
 Jesus, om- strength and Redeemer. Amen. 
 
 The officiating Minister then addresses, as follows, the 
 Minister newly ordained : — 
 
 " In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, the King and Head of 
 the Church, and by the authority of this Presbytery, I now admit 
 you to the pastoral charge of this parish, and to all the rights and 
 privileges belonging thereto, as such, and give you the right hand 
 of fellowship.'' 
 
 In tliis the Moderator is j (lined by the other clerg\Tnen 
 present, after which he rcsimies his place in the pulpit, deli- 
 vering an adthess, ffi-st to the Minister, and then to the 
 members of the congregation — the former standing during 
 the time that the address to him is being dehvered. 
 
 The service is then concluded in the orchnary manner \\ath 
 prayer and praise — ^the prayer making special reference to 
 the solemnity, in which aU present have been engaged. The 
 concluding service of praise ended, the officiating Minister 
 
108 
 
 makes some such intimation as follows, before pronouncing 
 the blessing : — 
 
 " The members of the congregation will have an opportunity of 
 taking their Minister by the hand, and of bidding him welcome among 
 them, as they retire from the Church." 
 
 After the dismission of the congregation, the Presbytery 
 resume their sitting, at which the uewly-orclained Minister is 
 required to subscribe anew the Confession of Faith, and the 
 Formula of the Church ; and his name (unless it be already 
 standing on the roll of the Presbytery), is added thereto. 
 
 On the admission of a Minister previously ordained, to a 
 vacant parish, there is a similar service, conducted like that 
 last described, with the exception, of course, of the ordination 
 prayer. 
 
 Charge to tf)c fBintster. 
 
 You have now been invested with a most arduous, yet honourable 
 office, and set apart to the service of God, under the weightiest obliga- 
 tions to fidelity. From tliis time your life should be mainly devoted 
 to a special purpose ; you are not as other men, called on to involve 
 yourself with worldly business, but are to appear among them as an 
 " ambassador for Christ." Your commission has been given, and your 
 sphere marked out ; and if, as I doubt not, the chief motive to 
 your entrance on the holy ministry has been a sense of the love 
 of God in Christ, and a desire of doing good to souls, it is not need- 
 ful that I should advert at length to the feelings that should anhnate 
 you, or to the nature of those duties which you have this day pro- 
 mised before God, and in the presence of this people to perform. 
 These will already have formed the subject of your thoughts ; and 
 while alive to the consciousness of your own weakness, and the 
 constant need of grace and strength from on high, that you may 
 *' take heed unto yourself and to all the flock over which the 
 Holy Ghost has made you overseer," I doubt not also that you 
 will anxiously seek to do your part — to fulfil the trust implied in 
 being " a fellow-worker with God " — to watch for souls as one that 
 must give account — to seek them for your hire — that you may re- 
 ceive at last this approval, " Well done, good and faithful servant, 
 enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." 
 
 In accordance, however, with the salutary practice of our Church, 
 permit me to remind you of some of the difficulties attending the 
 
109 
 
 faithful discbarge of the duties of the ministerial office, and likewise 
 of some of the encouragements held out to the labourers in the vine- 
 yard, which are so well adapted and so greatly needed to cheer and con- 
 sole their hearts. But let me, at the outset, place before you as worthy 
 to be kept in view from this hour till your appointed course is run — 
 the comprehensive and emphatic words of the apostle in his charge 
 to Timothy — as presenting an outline of ministerial duty, and set- 
 ting forth the standard of scriptural fidelity. " Let no man despise 
 thy youth, but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in con- 
 versation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Neglect not the 
 gift that is in thee. Meditate upon these things— give thyself 
 wholly to them, that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed 
 unto thyself and to the doctrine — continue in them : for in doing 
 this thou shalt both save thyself and them that hear thee." 
 
 The more we ponder the meaning which such expressions as these 
 involve, the more strongly should we be impressed with the magni- 
 tude of the ministerial oflice, the weakness of human strength, and 
 the need of imparted aid, that we may prove workmen that need 
 not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth — using with 
 fortitude and discretion the weapons of the heavenly armoury — in- 
 structing the ignorant in the elements of saving truth — building up 
 the more advanced — offering a word in season to the weary — sowing 
 the Gospel seed abroad, while looking for Bis blessing who can alone 
 command the increase, and send down rain to refresh His weary heri- 
 tage. To discharge ariglit this trust, what need of knowledge, of 
 diligence, of faith, of prayer ! What earnestness should there not 
 be in our appeals, what clearness in our statements, what reiteration 
 of the need that guilty sinners have to find pardon and peace, to seek 
 after holiness and become fit for heaven ! What need of casting 
 aside the fear of man, of speaking boldly, of suffering not the trumpet 
 to give a faint and uncertain sound, of bearing testimony from the 
 fulness of the heart to the rich provision God has made for them 
 that love him — of girding up every energy and en)ploying every 
 power — of feeding in private, by " taking heed " to ourselves, and 
 cultivating holiness, that flame of piety and love and zeal which 
 will sustain under labour and cheer in despondency, and animate to 
 steadfast perseverance in this great and goodly work — fainting not 
 nor wearying — having the spirit willing even though the flesh be 
 weak — till we are called home to rest, and see our Master face to face ! 
 For the end and aim of the Christian ministry is nothing less than 
 that men should be turned from the love of sin to the desire of holi- 
 
no 
 
 ness, from the service of Satan to that of Christ. The way of life 
 must, therefore, be pointed out — the doctrines of salvation declared — 
 the duties arising from these enforced. The barriers of unbelief re- 
 quire to be thrown down — the indifference of the ice-cold heart melted 
 - - the torpid and slumbering conscience aroused. The blind eyes 
 must be opened— the wanderers on the world's highway urged to 
 ascend the steep — to press through the strait gate and make progress 
 along the narrow path. We are to ask a hearing for a message 
 most ungrateful to the carnal and the proud, — a message pre-suppos- 
 ing guilt, and ruin — the ravages of a spiritual malady. Hard as ex- 
 perience proves the task to be, we must strive that every objecting 
 mouth may be stopped, and all shewn to be guilty in the sight of 
 heaven; declare the need of a spiritual change, and grapple with pre- 
 vailing reluctance to acknowledge the imminence and certainty of dan- 
 ger. The formalists are to be aroused, and the proud humbled; yet the 
 desponding behove to be comforted — and the penitent directed to be- 
 hold Jesus, " the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world." 
 Nay more : all this is to be done in spite of the efforts made by the 
 enemy of souls to steal truth from the heart — to wear down convictions 
 — to bring forward the temptations of the world, and the alluring nature 
 of sinful compliance, with its deceitful promise and traitor smile. 
 We must give warning of shoals and sunken rocks abounding in the 
 passage — of snares and pitfalls lying on every side - of the malice of 
 mighty antagonists now pouring down in open assault, now craftily 
 lurking in secret ambuscade. We are to expose the fallaciousness 
 of every remedy that does not reach the seat of the distemper, and 
 declare the need for a new principle being implanted. We have to 
 call on men to look from the things that are seen and temporal to those 
 which are unseen and eternal — to " crucify the flesh with its affections 
 and lusts,"- to comply with the call of Christ — to deny themselves and 
 take up the cross. Entering then on such an office — our souls might 
 truly despond, our hearts be filled with trouble and with sorrow ; 
 there would be the overwhelming and crushing feeling of utter im- 
 potence, had we thus to contend unaided — did we not possess the 
 countenance of our heavenly leader — were not the promise given 
 " J^o, I am with you always even to the end of the world." Who 
 otherwise durst venture to mingle in this warfare, or take part in this 
 ministry whose results are connected with the long eternity, — when 
 we are told, in words that ought to thrill with a sense of responsibility, 
 while they remind us that the issue of our efforts must be left to God, 
 of whom we are to some the " savour of death unto death," but to 
 
Ill 
 
 others of " life unto life.'" Let, then, all our studies be made sub- 
 servient to this our great employment. Let us seek to understand 
 more fully the scope and meaning of the sacred writings, digging- 
 deep into the exhaustless treasury that we may shew the riches that 
 reward the search. Let us give what time we can from active duty 
 and from needful relaxation to careful meditation upon divine truth, 
 not satisfied with presenting unformed views or traversing the same 
 beaten path ; but seeking, as scribes well-instructed in the mysteries 
 of the kingdom, to open up doctrine and duty in their befitting con- 
 nection and wide details, -unsparing of laboux-, fired with the noble 
 ambition of extended and continued usefulness— as ambassadors of 
 Christ, -bringing forth from the treasury things new and old— seek- 
 ing to give full proof of our ministry— to speak, to exhort, to rebuke, 
 with all long-suti'ering and authority, remembering that our own time 
 may be short, that our hearers are fast hastening to an etenial world 
 — and that we must account to God for the method in which we 
 discharged our obligations to the flock given us in charge ; must 
 answer to Him as to the manner in which we taught the young — 
 directed the desirous - spoke comfort to the mourner— visited the 
 sick and sought to prepare the dying. 
 
 Yet arduous as the post is, which you have this day been called 
 to occupy, it is one to which there are attached no ordinary promises 
 and motives of encouragement. We are not to speak so much in 
 words of human wisdom, as in those which the Holy Ghost teacheth. 
 Your ofiice is of divine appointment — intended for the conversion of 
 the sinner — for the " perfecting of the saints, and the edifying of 
 the body of Christ " — in which the labours of many, who preached 
 not themselves, but Jesus Christ, have been blessed with success 
 that cheered and rejoiced their hearts — in the awakening of their 
 hearers to religious earnestness, and the subduing of their souls to 
 the obedience of the truth. Your commission is, in itself, limited 
 and defined, while in its enforcement and illustration there is wide 
 range afforded ; nor do you require to go beyond the word itself, to 
 find the groundwork of the strongest arguments that can be brought 
 to bear upon the mind and conscience. You have to deal with 
 wondrous facts — to announce a glorious embassy — to publish good 
 tidings of recovery and forgiveness — to address men on subjects 
 most intimately connected with their hopes and fears — not merely 
 with the right ordering of the life that now is, but with the stupen- 
 dous and surpassing realities of the world to come. You are espe- 
 cially to exhibit Christ in all His satisfying fulness ; and can there 
 
112 
 
 be a more glorious theme whereon to dwell, or greater and more 
 generous love whereof to speak? You have to delineate the 
 character to be exemplified by His genuine disciples — the very 
 mind that was in Christ — the consummate holiness which, could 
 it be generally diffused, would irradiate earth once more with its 
 Creator's smile, and recall the memory of that time when our 
 first father gladly conversed with God amidst the trees of the garden. 
 You have to exhibit the wondrous things spoken of the " city of 
 God," that the souls of men may be re-possessed with longing after 
 its blessed service and enduring rest. Above all, you are acting 
 under the dispensation of the Spirit, through the imparting of whose 
 influence, the native powerlessness of human effort is endowed with 
 celestial vigour — the weak becomes strong — the truth finds entrance 
 — the Saviour is revealed — the heart is won — the promise is fulfilled, 
 " My word shall not return unto me void, but shall accomplish the 
 thing whereimto I sent it." Thus, then, go forth to act in the ser- 
 vice of your heavenly Master, willing to " endure hardship as a good 
 soldier of Jesus Christ." The Lord's hand is not shortened that it 
 cannot save, nor is his ear heavy that it cannot hear. Remember 
 that you may be set for " the fall or the rising of many in Israel." 
 " Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might," looking 
 forward to the approaching time, when " they that be wise shall 
 shine as the brightness of the firmament, and they that turn many 
 to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever." And may the 
 blessing of the Lord our God be upon thee : may He keep thee in 
 all thy ways, and enable thee to make full proof of thy ministry, 
 and give thee at last the reward of faithful service and abundant 
 labours. 
 
 2lDtirc6S to t^c Congregation. 
 It is now my duty to address the members of this congregation, 
 over whom a new labourer has been appointed. You have witnessed 
 him whom you have chosen as your pastor, invested with the minis- 
 terial office ; ready to engage in his Master's service, desirous of 
 watching for souls, willing to exert himself to promote your spiritual 
 welfare. But think not, my friends, that solemn responsibility rests 
 upon him alone. What has been done this day has been done in 
 the sight of God, and may be fraught with mighty consequences in 
 respect of your condition throughout eternity. He is an ambassador 
 for Christ among you, and is therefore to be heard as speaking with 
 authority. He desires not yours but you, and therefore is worthy 
 
113 
 
 of your affection and regard. He is to address you from the Word 
 of God ; his private labour and public teaching — the results of his 
 previous studies, the fruits of his weakly researches — are to be de- 
 voted to the explanation and enforcement of the sacred volume ; and 
 therefore he ought to be esteemed highly for his works' sake — his 
 message should be heard with candour and attention. "While, un- 
 doubtedly, you are only to follow him so far as he follows Christ, 
 yet the hearers of the gospel ouglit to be most strictly on their 
 guard against unjust censure and a captious spirit ; and to be very 
 sure — ere they question what is said by him who is commissioned to 
 instruct them in sacred things — that the defect or misstatement they 
 complain of, does not arise from their own. erroneous or im- 
 perfect views. In these days, especially, when serious doctrinal 
 errors are again afloat ; when rash and distempered speculation is so 
 much indulged ; when peculiar points are unduly magnified ; when 
 unenlightened interpretation would found largely on isolated state- 
 ments in defiance of the general analogy of scripture ; when so 
 many would be teachers, who themselves require to be taught the 
 first principles of the oracles of God ; when the eagerness — nay, the 
 bitterness — of party spirit would magnify differences about minor 
 and external points, and erect a barrier of separation between those 
 who equally hold the great vital and saving truths of the gospel — 
 who have equally " one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and 
 Father of all ; " when there is too much rending of the unity of 
 the faith and breaking of the bond of peace ; — be it yours, my 
 friends, to ask for and to keep by the " old paths '" — to resist novel 
 and dangerous excitement, adhering to what has stood the test of 
 ages; "as much as lieth in you to live peaceably with all men," 
 but especially to cultivate that holiness without which no man can 
 see the Lord. Be on your guard against brilliant and deceptive no- 
 velties, and lights that lead astray ; for these are " perilous times " 
 in which we live, and by these are many unstable souls beguiled. 
 Be on the watch against a vain philosophy, a spirit of rash and un- 
 warrantable speculation, a spirit of loud profession, and a spirit of 
 indifl:erence. Listen with meekness to " the engrafted word which 
 is able to save the soul," and be not hearers only, but doers of 
 that word ; praying earnestly for your own enlightenment, for the 
 strengthening of his hands whose field of labour is amongst you, for 
 the establishment of the kingdom of grace in your own hearts, and 
 in the hearts of those who areyet strangers to its power ; that they may 
 receive the truth in the love of it, and may know the dignity and 
 P 
 
114 
 
 peace, and feel the longing for purity and fruitfulness in good works, 
 characteristic of such as serve the Lord Jesus Christ. Attend punctu- 
 ally on the ministrations of grace, desiring that your souls may be edi- 
 fied, and your minds filled with that heavenly wisdom which can guide 
 in difficulty and sustain in trial. Receive the word spoken in the 
 sanctuary as that not of man, but of God ; which, when accompanied 
 by the power of His Spirit, worketh effectually in all that believe. 
 Thus may you hope to find it answer the great purpose for which it 
 has been given, and thiis may your profiting be known. 
 
 Remember, then, the obligations incumbent on every hearer of the 
 gospel, the account of warning and instruction that must be given in 
 at last. Hold fast the Word of Life, press forward to the hope of 
 glory : make the Word of God the subject of your thoughts and 
 prayers. Damp not the heart, nor chill the energies of your minister, 
 by a listlessness and carelessness which must but too fatally re-act upon 
 yourselves ; give him not cause to say that he has stretched out his 
 hands to a " disobedient and a gainsaying people." Commend him 
 much to the care and guidance of his heavenly Father. Receive 
 him kindly for his own and his Master's sake, remembering whose 
 representative he is amongst you. Finally, be zealous to " redeem 
 the time," knowing not how soon the period may come to each when 
 ordinances will be for ever past, and when the wrath of God must 
 be revealed to such as have not known nor obeyed the truth. And 
 may " the God of peace that brought again from the dead our Lord 
 Jesus Christ, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood 
 of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work 
 to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His 
 sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. 
 Amen." 
 
]]o 
 
 ©rUmatiott of £I5frB. 
 
 The Elders, who are choseu from amongst the most respect- 
 able and pious members of the congregation, and who, if worthy 
 of the office, and having proper views of the duties which it in- 
 volves, can do much to strengthen a ]Mim'ster's hand, consti- 
 tute along with the Minister, the Kirk Session of the parish 
 When it is considered to be desirable that their number should 
 be augmented, the persons deemed best qualified, are nomina- 
 ted and conferred with by the Kirk Session. On signifying 
 their willmgness to comply with the invitation, intimation of 
 the proposed appointment is made to the congregation at least 
 ten free days before their admission. An edict is served, and 
 on its retm-n, if no objections be stated, the Minister, after the 
 forenoon service, proceeds to set them apart to the office — 
 first proposing the following questions, to which their indivi- 
 dual assent is required. 
 
 He then offers up an appropriate prayer, and proceeds to 
 address the newly admitted members of Kirk Session and the 
 congregation in some such manner as follows : — 
 Ortiinattou of ElUrrs. 
 
 The Kirk Session of this parish and congregation having, in con- 
 formity to the laws of the church, elected to the office of 
 
 the Eldership ; and the edict of these gentlemen having been dulv 
 served and returned without objections ; this day was appointed for • 
 their ordination, to which act I am now about to proceed. 
 
 But before doing so, it is requisite that the following questions 
 should be put, to which all candidates for the office of Eldership in 
 the Church of Scotland are required to give their assent : — 
 
 Do you believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to 
 be the word of God, and the only rule of faith and manners? 
 
 Do you believe the Presbyterian form of worship and church- 
 government to be founded on, and agreeable to, the "Word of God ; 
 and will you, to the best of your ability, maintain and defend the 
 same against all heresy and schism ? 
 
 Do you engage to be diligent and faithful in discharging the 
 duties of the office of the Eldership in this parish, and to administer, 
 with impartiality, the discipline of the Church amongst this people ? 
 
IIG 
 
 AVill you submit yourselves, in the spirit ofJmeeknesH, to the 
 admonitions and discipline of the judicatories of this Church ? 
 
 Do you own and adhere to the Confession of Faith of this Church ; 
 and do you declare your readiness now, or at any time when it shall 
 be demanded of you, to sign the same ? 
 
 In consequence of the answers which you have now given to these 
 questions, I proceed to^ordain you as Elders of the Church, by prayer 
 and supplication, and your brethren in office will give you the right 
 hand of fellowship, after the blessing is pronounced. 
 
 In declaring your willingness when conferred with in private, 
 and again in presence of this people, to accept the office of the 
 Eldership, you have given unequivocal testimony, both of firm 
 adherence to the Church of Scotland, and of your desire to afford aid 
 to those who have already in charge the oversight of this parish 
 and congregation. AVe rejoice in having found men from whose co- 
 operation we trust to derive happiness and comfort ; and feel assured 
 of a continuance of the same harmony and desire of working together 
 for good that have hitherto characterised the Kirk Session of this 
 place. 
 
 I feel persuaded that it is unnecessary to say much in regard to 
 the obligations that flow, and the duties that arise from your en- 
 trance upon this honourable and important office in the Church of 
 Christ. It is a charge implying diligence and zeal, prudence and 
 fidelity, in which, we doubt not, that you will seek, by the divine 
 blessing, to abound. The constitution of the Church of Scotland 
 recognises the exercise of no control over those who are entrusted 
 with the ministerial office, save on the part of the higher judicatories 
 of the Church, in regard to their purely spiritual functions. To the 
 Master only whom they serve, and to those to whom has been com- 
 mitted that aggregate authority which constitutes a peculiar feature 
 of the system of church government to which we adhere ; are those 
 who have been put in trust with the ministrj' of the gospel viewed 
 as responsible in the work of public instruction and of pastoral ad- 
 monition. But in whatever concerns the exercise of discipline and 
 the maintenance of jurisdiction over the people committed to our 
 charge, Ave desire to derive benefit from the counsel and assistance 
 of those who can aid us in giving heed unto the flock, and, in the 
 exercise of Christian wisdom, impart advice in cases of difficulty. 
 
ii: 
 
 fiuJ help in tho suucrintcndence of tliose whose spiritual be.ncrit jukI 
 growth in grace is our most anxious wish and prayer. As those 
 who would not lord it over the Redeemer's heritage, and would not 
 even be suspected of exercising despotic and dictatorial power, wo 
 seek the help of individuals whose station and means of acquiring 
 information enable them to act beneficially ; and who, by their un- 
 blemished conduct and Christian worth, may afford to others an 
 example of those things which are " pure and lovely and of good 
 report." We do not claim for the office to which you have been 
 called such imperative and essential necessity as to say that no 
 Church of Christ can lawfully subsist without it ; but we imagine 
 that it is not impossible to find traces of its existence in apostolic 
 times ;* we find it recognized in the writings of those ancient 
 authors, from whom information may be obtained in regard to the 
 proceedings in the early commuuiiies of the faithful who desired to 
 be of one accord and mind, and to continue steadfostly in the love 
 and practice of those doctrines, which are according to godliness ; 
 while experience has amply shown its beneficial tendency in con- 
 tributing to the regulation and enlargement of that Church which 
 the Redeemer has purchased with His blood. 
 
 As members, then, of this Kirk Session, we look to you in order 
 that our hands may be strengthened ; and welcome you as fellow- 
 labom-ers who may give us material aid in the cultivation of the 
 vine yard ; ruling well, and " careful for the flock, wise, and above 
 all things fearing God." To you we look as contributing, according 
 to your power, towards the rebuke of vice and irreligion ; as desirous 
 of taking an interest in, and exercising superintendence over all 
 measures that may be adopted, and establishments that are intended 
 in this parish for the relief of temporal distress, and for the im- 
 parting of sound education and religious knowledge ; bearing in 
 mind that whatever words of counsel you may give out of unfeigned 
 love to Christ ; whatever efforts you may make to instruct and to 
 benefit others ; whatever time you can spare to discharge the seve- 
 ral duties of your office ; whatever you may do, even by the silent 
 influence of example — by holy and consistent lives — to recommend 
 to others the practise of true religion ; whatever the missions of 
 charity and love on which you may proceed ; — all will be so much 
 done in conformity with His example, who came "not to be minis- 
 tered unto, but to minister ;" whose soul expanded in love towards 
 His brethren, according to the flesh ; who laboured unweariedly for 
 * 1. Coriii. xi. 1— f). 
 
118 
 
 their good ; who "came to seek and save that which was lost," who 
 had compassion on the ignorant, and on them that were out of the 
 way. 
 
 Nor let your hearts be dismayed if, in the course of discharging those 
 duties which pertain to the Eldership, you should occasionally meet 
 with circumstances of discouragement, or with instances in which 
 your endeavours to do good are rewarded with ingratitude. It is a 
 small thing to have censorious and unfair estimates formed by man ; 
 if we are privileged with the approbation of the Judge of all, who will 
 not forget our works of faith, and our labours of love. Be not then 
 ashamed of the testimony of the Lord ; nor be moved from the way 
 of truth and the path of rectitude by the " fear of man which 
 bringeth a snare;" but seek to admonish, to reprove, and to exhort 
 with all long-suffering and patience. Nor despair of those who 
 seem to be unaffected by your first counsels and admonitions ; for 
 the fruit of your exertions, if deferred for a time, may ultimately ap- 
 pear ; and even though, unhappily, no good may be effected and no 
 abiding impression made, relief is found in the thought that we have 
 done whatever lay within our power — that we have cleared our con- 
 sciences by having fulfilled our part. 
 
 For discharging creditably to yourselves and advantageously for 
 others many of the ordinary functions of this office, little more is 
 required than the exercise of the same prudence, wisdom, and Chris- 
 tian discretion which belong to a more private station. No demand is 
 made for any very active interference in ecclesiastical government, or 
 for any peculiar insight into its details. But you may occasionally be 
 called upon to share in the deliberations of higher judicatories than 
 the Kirk Session, in which questions may be agitated of a more 
 general interest and more public nature. For understanding and 
 taking part in these, some measure of acquaintance, derived from 
 thought, observation, and knowledge of our ecclesiastical polity, will 
 be found of great advantage. If time and opportunity permit, such 
 details may form a profitable subject of examination for those who 
 are admitted to the Eldership, and who may be possessed of such 
 leisure as admits of their giving a larger degree of attention than 
 others to the general welfare of the Church. But mainly, the 
 duties of your office are such as pertain to its ordinary exercise ; 
 those are its most important functions in which good may be done 
 within that portion of the vineyard, and amongst that people with 
 whom you are now connected by a nearer and stronger tie ; and in 
 discharging which you will look for something far loftier and more 
 
119 
 
 abiding than the honour that cometh from men, even the approbation 
 of the Most High ; the abundant reward reserved for those who, 
 having, improved the talents committed to them, and having been 
 " faithful unto death," shall at last receive " a crown of life." To 
 God and to His grace I now commend you ; may His blessing rest 
 upon you, and abide with you for ever 1 Amen. 
 
 atiUrcss to tfjr CToijgrcgattoii 
 My brethren, those whom have witnessed set apart this day to the 
 Eldership, along with their brethren in office, have, from the relation 
 in which they stand towards you, the strongest claims on your respect 
 and consideration, your confidence and regard. They are worthy of it, 
 not merely on their own account, but because of the peculiar nature 
 of the duties which they have undertaken to discharge. The disin- 
 terestedness of their office, the sacrifice of time, and the measure of 
 attention which it involves, the fact that it is followed by no other 
 reward than that which accompanies doing good, enhance this claim. 
 Esteem them, therefore, highly for their works' sake ; receive any 
 counsel or advice that they may offer, as undertaken from a sense 
 of duty, and prompted by a strong desire for your welfare ; bearing 
 in mind that, so far from cherishing any desire to obtrude it, they 
 will feel most gratified by its being uncalled for. Instead of giving 
 way to the slightest feeling of censoriousness, or any tendency to 
 find fault with them arising from the office that they hold — a fault 
 in you of which I am far from entertaining any anticipation — view 
 them constantly with the charity that " thinketh no evil," and with 
 the confidence and regard which their deportment is entitled to in- 
 spire ; as those who will rejoice in being serviceable, and who are 
 sincerely anxious, so far as lies in their power, to promote your wel- 
 fare. Welcome them cordially, as servants of Christ, as desirous 
 of doing good according to the measure of their opportunity and 
 means ; giving them your countenance, your submission, and your 
 prayers ; bearing also in remembrance that all, whether office bearers 
 in the church or not, are called upon to " grow in grace," to abound 
 in faith, in love, and in good works, doing good unto all up to their 
 ability ; as parents, faithful ; as children, obedient ; as masters, or- 
 dering well their households ; as servants, acting in the fear of the 
 Lord ; as poor, yet rich in treasure laid up in heaven ; as possessing 
 whatever measure of this world's goods has been afforded, not abus- 
 ing these, nor living to yourselves alone, " forasmuch as the fashion of 
 this world passeth away," and we must all soon enter into an un- 
 
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 changeable and eternal state. Let every one that beareth the nams 
 of Christ, seek to have his "conversation in heaven," and to depart 
 from the love and practice of iniquity ; not conformed to this world, 
 but transformed by the renewing of the mind ; "one body in Christ, 
 and every one members one of another." " Having then gifts dif- 
 fering according to the grace that is given to us, whether ministry, 
 let us wait on our ministering ; or he that teacheth, on teaching ; 
 or he that exhorteth, on exhortation ; he that giveth, let him do it 
 with simplicity ; he that ruleth, with diligence ; he that sheweth 
 mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be without dissimulation. 
 Abhor that which is evil, and cleave to that which is good. Be 
 kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love ; in honour 
 preferring one another ; not slothful in business," but " fervent in 
 spirit, serving the Lord ; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, 
 continuing instant in prayer." " The Lord of peace himself give 
 you peace always by all means ; " and to his name be praise and 
 glory ascribed. Amen. 
 
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