Imagens das páginas
PDF
ePub

WESTERN ASSOCIATION.

charity, which the generous friends of Missions, and Sunday Schools might feel disposed to exercise in this cause.

When I first came to the island of Antigua, Sunday Schools were generally reckoned to be impracticable, though frequent and not unfruitful attempts were made, especially by our truly indefatigable brother, James Light (now in Jamaica.) By degrees the prejudices of the planters against permitting the Negro children being taught to read, which in the beginning were very perceptible, wore away; and we see on those estates where the children are most generally instructed, the beneficial consequences of it. Quite a different generation seems there to rise, and gives the prospect of happier days for the Negroes.

The moral depravities of that class of people are so deeply rooted, that a mere cessation of slavery would not cure them in the least of their laziness, impertinence, lying, stealing, and lasciviousness. The education of the Negro children has been entirely in the hands of their parents, or of other Negroes, who, in most instances, were by no means able to do any thing for their moral or religious improvement. Such children were too often severely cor. rected by their parents for speaking the truth. They were taught that telling a lie in one's own defence is no sin; that to pick up a thing which was not their own, is not stealing, especially if it belonged to their master; and they never learnt to discriminate between regular marriage and an illicit connection. The children of unconverted Negroes are hardly ever brought up is a better manner, unless they go to the Sunday School.

There is now an amazing desire among the children, and even among adult Negroes, to learn to read; and many have declared that they wish to be able to read the sacred scriptures themselves, for their comfort and instruction. An opportunity to satisfy such a laudable desire is now afforded, which, if permitted to pass away, may, perhaps not soon return, but which, under the blessing of God, may lead to an entire reformation of the slave population of Antigua."

ASSOCIATION.

In consequence of the division of the Western Association, the Midland District including twenty-four Churches, held their first Meeting, according to appointment, at Wellington, Somerset, on the 8th and 9th of June, 1824. The friends in that Town combining with it their Annual Meeting on behalf of the Baptist Mission. The Services commenced on Tuesday morning, when a Sermon was preached on behalf of the Mission, by Mr. Kilpin, of Exeter, from Psalm Ixvii. 1, 2. God be merciful unto us," &c. The point which the Preacher endeavoured to place before the hearers in a striking light, and to press home upon their attention, was, that the

361

Christian Church is not at present in a fit state to become the Missionary of the world. And by an exposition of the evils too generally prevailing in our Churches, in the late and listless attendance on Divine Worship almost universally apparent-the unwillingness manifested to make sacrifices for the cause of God-their inattention to purity and spirituality, Above all their infrequent and languid supplications for the pouring down of the Holy Spirit, the Preacher endeavoured to establish this position. While upon it he grounded the necessity of fervent prayer for the removal of existing evils, and the speedy introduction of a better state of things realized in the enlarged enjoyment of the Divine Blessing; that thus the Church may be prepared for the high honour in reversion for her, of conveying the blessings of Divine Truth to every part of the heathen world; that thus the knowledge and enjoyment of salvation may be diffused throughout the earth. And the happy time arrive, when we shall have no more occasion to say to our brother, "Know the Lord, but all shall know him, from the least unto the greatest." The Sermon evidently produced a deep impression on the hearers, and it is hoped the effect of it will not soon be lost. The devotional parts of the Service were conducted by Mr. Wayland, of Lyme, Mr. Thomas, of Prescott, and Mr. Blair, (Independent,) of Milverton.

In the afternoon, was held the first Meeting of the New Association, when Mr. Baynes, the Minister of the place was chosen Moderator. The letters from the Churches were read, giving on the whole, an encouraging account of the state of religion among the denomination in the district. The Service commenced, and closed with prayer by Messrs. Fry, of Hatch, and Humphrey, of Collumpton.

In the evening a Missionary Meeting was held. Mr. Gabriel, of Stogomer began the Service with prayer; W. Cadbury, Esq. of Rumhill House, was called to the Chair. The Report of the past year was read, and various resolutions were moved and seconded by Messrs. R. Horsey, Sharp, Toms, Claypole, Crook, Cuff, Wayland, Gabriel, Humphrey, Brewer, Clark, Kilpin, Fry, and Elliot, Home Missionary. Mr. Viney, of Bridgwater, closed the Service with prayer.

On Wednesday, the 9th, the business of the Association commenced with a Meeting for prayer, from seven till eight, when the following Brethren engaged: viz. Pulsford, of Torrington, Brewer, of Sheldon, Johns, of Barnstaple, Cocks, of Crediton, and Elliot, of Perriton.

The Service in the forenoon commenced at half past ten, when Mr. Clark, of Taunton read and prayed. Mr. Toms, of Chard preached an appropriate discourse from Hab. iii. 2. “O Lord revive thy work," wherein the nature of the work referred to in the text was pointed out, and the purport and importance of the prayer for its prosperity insisted on with happy effect. After theSermon the Circular

Letter to the Churches drawn up by Mr.1 Sharp, of Bradninch, was read; and the Service was closed by Mr. Luke, of Taunton, (Independent) with prayer.

In the afternoon, at three o'clock, the Service was commenced by Mr. Winton, (Independent) with reading and prayer. Mr. Crook preached from Dan. ix. 9. and Mr.Johnson, (Independent) concluded the Meeting in prayer.

In the evening at half past six assembled again, when Mr. Gribble, (Independent) read and prayed; after which, Mr. Sharp, preached from 2 Cor. iii. 18. To exhibit the object of the believers' contemplation -to unfold the happy influence of such contemplations on his spirit-and to set forth the agency by which they are rendered effectual to assimilate him to the Saviour, formed the design of this truly spiritual and excellent Sermon. Mr. R. Horsey concluded the public Services of the Association in prayer.

A few months ago, we noticed the settlement of Mr. Burnett over this low and declining interest; we do trust that providence has evidently called him to labour in that part of the Lord's vineyard for good, the congregation has so considerably Increased, as to render it absolutely needful to enlarge their place of worship. The extent of the enlargement is 34 feet by 21, including a Vestry; the expence upon the most economical plan is £300, towards which, the Church and Congregation have raised £70.

Thus closed the delightful Services of the first Association in this district; the most pleasing feature of which was their decided spirituality-their tendency to produce that impression, and strain of feeling most in unison with the Christian frame in the best moments of his experience, and which in their enjoyment form the nearest approach to heavenly blessedness-long will the savour of them remain on many minds, to be renewed by future Meetings of a similar description, or perhaps perfected in the world above. May such Meetings serve to revive the cause of Christ in all our Churches, and prepare the souls of believers for joining the general assembly, and Church of the first born, whose names are written in heaven.

The next Meeting of the Association is appointed to be held at Yeovil, Somerset, the second Wednesday and Thursday in June, 1825. Brethren Humphrey, Baynes, and Singleton are appointed to preach, and Brother Wayland, in case of failure. Brother Thomas, of Prescott to draw up the Circular Letter.

CHAPEL OPENED.

May the Lord Jehovah abundantly bless this old, but long neglected Church, and cause divine influence to descend on pastor and people.

OBITUARY.

ECA

BODI

TANA

Died at Leeds, in the county of York, on Tuesday, October 12th, in the seventieth year of his age, Mr. Thomas Langdon, pastor of the Baptist church in that large and populous town; an office which he had creditably sustained for more than forty years.

Though Mr. Langdon was not distinguished in the denomination to which he belonged, by either his popularity as a preacher, or his productions from the press, yet he was by no means destitute of talents, and all who knew him, honoured him for his virtues. turally reserved, and his manners retiring His disposition was naand unobtrusive. In his deportment there was much of the Christian and the gentleman, for the natural sweetness of his temper rendered him a pleasant companion. Probably the greatest defect in his public character was a want of independence of mind. He was too yielding and compliant to be "valiant for the truth upon the earth." In offering this remark, we do not merely refer to his mixt communion practice in the church, a thing which has nothing to recommend it, that we can perceive, but worldly policy; we advert to his general deportment as a minister. He does not seem to have duly considered the full import of the apostle's words: "If I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ." There were nevertheless, excellent traits in his character, and those who possessed his friendship, cannot fail to lament the loss of him. We believe he was severely exercised with trials from causes which sprang up in his domestic circle, but he sustained them with becoming fortitude, and we trust they were overruled to the promotion of his best interests.

The Baptist Chapel at Lockerly, Hants, having undergone a considerable enlargement, was opened for worship on the 22nd of September, 1824, when Brother Millard, of Lymington, preached in the morning from Isa. Ix. 7." I will glorify the house of my glory." Brother Reynolds, (Independent,) of Romsey, in the afternoon, from Psalm lxxxix. 15. " Blessed is the people who know the joyful sound;" and Brother Turquond, of Milford, preached in the evening from Heb. ii. 3. "How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation." Brethren Russel, Yarnold, George, and Ash engaged in reading the Scriptures and

prayer.

The services of the day were truly pleasing, and we trust, to many were truly profitable.

LITERARY NOTICES..

LITERARY NOTICES.

Just Published.

The Question of Christian Missions, Stated and Defended: a Sermon with particular reference to the recent persecution in the West Indian Colonies. By RICHARD WINTER HAMILTON, Leeds.

The Christian Spirit which is essential to the triumph of the Kingdom of God; a Discourse delivered at the Annual General Meeting of the Baptist Missionary Society, June 23, 1824, and published at their request. By CHRIS ANDERSON.

The Moral Government of God, vindicated in Observations on the System of Theology, taught by the Rev. Dr. Hawker, Vicar of Charles, Plymouth. By ISAIAH BIRT.

In the Press.

Dunallan; or the Methodist Husband, in 3 vols. 12mo. By the author of "The Decision," "" Father Clement," &c.

The Doctrine of Election, viewed in connection with the responsibility of man as a moral Agent. By the Rev. WILLIAM HAMILTON, D.D. of Strathblane. 12mo. The Works of the Rev. JOHN NEWTON,❘ A.M, late Rector of St. Mary Woolnoth, &c. With a Life and View of his Character and Writings. By the Rev. RICHARD CECIL, A.M. A New Edition, in six vols. 8vo.

A New Edition of Hervey's Theron and Aspasio, in 2 vols. 8vo.

Time's Telescope, for the year 1825, will be published, with the Almanacks, on the 22nd instant, comprehending a complete Guide to the Almanack, an explanation of Saint's days and Holidays, illustrations of British History and Antiquities, the Naturalist's Diary, with a description of the principal culinary Vegetables, their mode of culture, &c. Prefixed to which will be an Essay on English Sacred Poetry, and two introductory Poems, by Mr. J. H. Wiffen, and Mr. Alex. Balfour, Author of Contemplation," and other Poems.

[ocr errors]

The Eternity of Divine Mercy established, and unconditional Reprobation discarded: in remarks upon Dr. Adam Clarke's Sermon published in the Methodist Magazine for September, 1824. By WILLIAM CATTON, pastor of the Baptist Church at Uley, in Gloucestershire.

[blocks in formation]

To the Editor of the New Evan. Magazine. As you reside in the great Bookmaking Metropolis, you will oblige me by stating, what is the reason that Dr. Rippon's Selection of Hymns is sold at such an exorbitant price, when the Psalms and Hymns of Watts may be had at about one-third of the which I never yet have heard explained: price. There is some mystery in this, but perhaps you are in the secret. The same enquiry I have had many times made to me; and your thoughts and information on the subject would, I have no doubt, be acceptable in more quarters than one.

MR. EDITOR,

If the word farewell imports a wish that all joy and happiness may attend those to whom it is addressed, I beg leave to inquire of you, or some of your Correspondents, how far it is proper and consistent to bid "Farewell" to pain, to toil, to evil, &c.

This Query, which I hope will be answered, was occasioned by reading the last page of your Magazine for this month.

Dr. Watts uses the word in the same sense as adieu.

"My soul forsakes her vain delight,
And bids the world farewell."

And again,

[blocks in formation]

364

Original Poetry.

LINES WRITTEN TO AN AFFLICTED FRIEND.

"In all their affliction he was afflicted."

ISA. Ixiii. 9.

Au! who are the blessed? Of whom can we say
That their pleasures are pleasures indeed ?
Ab! where are the honours that never decay?
And the joys that shall never recede?

We gaze on the men, who, supreme o'er the rest,
On their heads the bright diadeins wear;
O'eraw'd by their grandeur, we fancy them blest,
And strangers to sorrow and care.

As the brooks that glide gently, o'ershadow'd with trees,

Whose verdure refreshes the sight; So honour and gaiety, riches and ease,

Are counted the streams of delight.

But hark! by that voice we acknowledge divine,
A lesson of wisdom is taught;
"True bliss to those shadows no longer assign,
"Prepost'rous and vain is the thought.

"The world and its fashions are hasting away,
"Its children pass on to the tomb;

"Its honours, tho' brightly they shine for a day, "Shall quickly be lost in the gloom.

"But bless'd are the souls that have learned to know

"The sound of the message divine: "Thro' the chill vale of Achor,,they feel as they go, "The radiance of Deity shine.

"As the beams of the sun to enlighten and warm, "So the beams of his favour descend; "As a shield to protect the whole body from harm, "So the arm of his pow'r shall defend."

But whence, Great Instructor, (tho' righteous art thou,

Permit us with rev'rence to plead,)

If saints are the objects of love while below,
Ah! whence do their sorrows proceed?

With bread of affliction, how oft are they fed!
Its waters, how often they taste!

Thro' floods, and thro' tempests how frequently led,
As wearied, they traverse the waste!

The wicked, whose insults are daring the skies,
Seem healthy, and prosp'rous, and gay;
Thy children's distresses, extort their deep sighs,
As they pass the dark shadows away!

"I chasten," he answers, "the souls that I love,
"Induc'd by affection alone;

"Like the gold in the furnace, by trials I prove, "And the strength of their graces make known. "When the fire burns intensely, the dross is remov❜d,

"And the metal flows pure from the test; "'Tis thus I will try to the end my belov'd, "Then shall they ascend to my rest."

But few are the days that we sojourn on earth,
And soon the dark cloud shall be past:
The souls that partake of a heav'nly birth,
In peace shall rest sweetly at last.

Their bodies shall slumber in Jesus awhile,
Till the trumpet resounds thro' the sky;
Then bursting the fetters of death with a smile,
They enter the mansions on high.

Like them, their Redeemer temptations endur'd,
Their cup of affliction was his;

The pangs that he suffer'd redemption procar'd,
And open'd the way for their bliss.

Like him they shall rise, and triumphantly reign,
Enthron'd in the city of God;

Nor sickness, nor sorrow, temptation, nor pain,
Intrudes on that blissful abode.

The change how transporting, no language can tell,
When nothing remains to deplore!
When bodies that once were polluted and frail,
Are frail and polluted no more!

But bright, and immortal, and perfectly pure,
The spirit forgets to complain;

Their bliss as the throne of their God shall endure,
Nor can they be wretched again.

With such a bright prospect the cross we may bear,
And welcome the chastening rod:

These wearisome moments our spirits prepare,
For rest in the presence of God.
Accrington.

PARTICEPS,

SENSIBILITY THE SOUL OF POETRY.

"Which giveth songs in the night.”—JOB. "Poets may be said to realize, in some measure, the poetical idea of the nightingale's singing with a thorn at her breast: as their most exquisite songs have often originated in the acuteness of their personal sufferings."

HAYLEY'S LIFE OF COWPER.

THERE is a magle might in song

The pomp of words can never reach; There is that bears the heart along,

Which rules and forms can never teach.

'Tis FEELING gives that sweet controul, Which chains the list'ner's raptur'd ear, Smoothing the current of the soul

When ruffled with the gales of care.

Go, child of fortune! 'tis not you,

'Mid sunny bliss, can soothe the heart; 'Tis midnight grief which brings to view The stars that milder light impart.

Not to the gale in brightest hours,

The rose its richest fragrance bears,
But when suffus'd with dews and showers;
So song is sweet embalm'd in tears.
"The herbs which scentless whilst entire,"
When bruised, emit a rich perfume;
So wounded hearts endear the lyre,
With notes which mirth can ne'er assume.

Oh! give me then those witching strains
That from the spirit's center spring;
Tho' nought of pomp or art obtains,
They'll waken ev'ry bosom string.

"For precious pearl, in sorrow's stream,"
The bard dives deep, continues long,
But, tho' depriv'd of day's bright beam,
A rich reward awaits his song.

B. COOMBS.

NEW

EVANGELICAL MAGAZINE,

AND

Theological Review.

DECEMBER, 1824.

ON VISITING THE AFFLICTED.

IN endeavouring to account for the introduction of moral evil into the world, and justify the ways of God to man, curious and speculative men have advanced various and conflicting opinions, which, instead of elucidating the subject, have, for the most part, only served to "darken counsel by words without knowledge." Of the why and the wherefore we are still ignorant, and should be content so to remain, till "that which is perfect is come, and that which is in part shall be done away!" till we arrive at that blest world, where the mysteries of providence shall be unravelled, and the wonders of grace unfolded to the believer's enraptured mind-where we shall 76 see Jesus as he is, and know even as we are known." Of this we are certain, sin has "entered into the world, and death by sin, and so death hath passed upon all men, for that all have sinned." It was sin

"That brought into this world a world of woe."

Suffering, then, is a consequence of sin, is co-extensive with, and follows in its train, as naturally as the shadow does the substance. In order, therefore, to awaken the attention, and excite the commiseration of the Christian philanthropist, I will advert to a few of the many ills to which flesh is heir.

We have said that suffering is the effect of sin,-" all have sinned," and all are sufferers in some way, or at some time or another. But of all the maladies incident to us, none are more common, nor are there any more entitled to our commiseration, than those which take

VOL. X.

their rise from a disordered state of the nervous system. Poor Cowper wrote experimentally when he said,

""Tis not, as heads that never ache suppose,
Forg'ry of fancy, and a dream of woes.
Man is a harp, whose chords elude the sight,
The screws revers'd, (a task which, if he please,
Each yielding harmony dispos'd aright:
God in a moment executes with ease,)
Lost, 'till he tune them, all their pow'r and use.
Ten thousand thousand strings at once go loose,
No wounds like those a wounded spirit feels,
No cure for such, 'till God, who makes them,

heals."

In all cases, human aid, unaccompanied by a divine blessing, must prove ineffectual, but more especially so here; He that formed the spirit can alone reorganize all its disordered faculties, and restore reason to its wonted empire. Those, however, who are the most deeply imbued with the spirit of their divine Master, will be the most concerned to do all that can be done to soothe the perturbed mind, and thereby lighten the heavy load.

Some are afflicted relatively. The ruthless hand of death strikes a valuable friend, a revered parent, an affectionate partner, a beloved child-they

are

"carried to their long homes, and the mourners go about the streets." Now although the Saviour has said, (and it should be more than sufficient to silence every objection-hush every murmur-and sustain the drooping mind), "What I do, thou knowest not now, but thou shalt know hereafter;" still, in such circumstances, it is found exceedingly difficult to possess the soul in patience, and number events like these among the "all things" that

3 B

« AnteriorContinuar »