(_CONTINUING IN CHRIST--PREPAREDNESS FOR DEATH._)
LOVING FRIEND,--Continue in the love of Christ, and the doctrine which
I taught you faithfully and painfully, according to my measure. I am
free of your blood. Fear the dreadful name of God. Keep in mind the
examinations[235] which I taught you, and love the truth of God.
Death, as fast as time fleeth, chaseth you out of this life; it is
possible that ye may make your reckoning with your Judge before I see
you. Let salvation be your care, night and day, and set aside hours
and times of the day for prayer. I rejoice to hear that there is
prayer in your house. See that your servants keep the Lord's day. This
dirt and god of clay (I mean the vain world) is not worth the seeking.
[235] Perhaps (see in Letter CLXVI.) his instructions on the Catechism
are meant.
An hireling pastor is to be thrust in upon you, in the room to which I
have Christ's warrant and right. Stand to your liberties, for the word
of God alloweth you a vote in choosing your pastor.
What I write to you, I write to your wife. Commend me heartily to her.
The grace of God be with you.
Your loving Friend and Pastor,