To the Reader.
_The substance of the philosophical part of this discourse was
delivered at twice to the Royal Society, on_ March 15, _and_ 22: _The
theological, in my own church. I could not refuse the solicitation of my
friends, hearers in both places, to print it. I wish my intention, in
the compliance, may any ways prove successful; to show, how vain, and
unmeaning, are all our philosophical inquiries, when destitute of their
true view; to lead us into the more engaging paths of religion. That,
from speculation of material causes, we may become adepts in that wisdom
which is from above. Otherwise, like_ Epicurus, _and the ancient heathen
philosophers, we barter away our immortal part, for a curiosity, that
amuses us to no good purpose. Mean are these objects of our senses to be
accounted, in comparison of our spiritual natures, to which our principal
regard is due! For we must rightly say with_ Job: Lo, these are parts of
God's ways, but how little a portion is heard of him? and the thunder of
his power, who can understand?
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