_To the Rev. Mr. S._
_Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._
_Reverend and dear Sir_,
THE favours received at _Hertford_, from you and your dear flock, are
not yet out of my mind: They were exceeding endearing, and deserve my
utmost acknowledgments. Had providence permitted, I should have paid
you another visit; but GOD’s thoughts are not as our thoughts: However,
in about a twelvemonth, by his leave, I hope to return amongst you
once more. Oh! that I may come in the blessing of the gospel of peace!
The doctrines I have already preached come with double evidence upon
my mind day by day. I am more and more convinced that they are the
truths of GOD; they agree with the written word, and the experience
of all the saints in all ages: Nothing more confirms me in the belief
of them, than the opposition that is made against them by natural men.
Election, free grace, free justification without any regard to works
foreseen, are such paradoxes to carnal minds, that they cannot away
with them. This is the wisdom of GOD, which is foolishness with man,
and which, the LORD being my helper, I intend to exalt and contend for
more and more; not with carnal weapons, that be far from me, but with
the sword of the spirit, the word of GOD: No sword like that. Dear Sir,
pray for me that I may rightly divide the word of truth, and give to
each his portion in due season. The LORD has been exceeding gracious
to me since I saw you last. Oh let your songs be of him, and praise
him for all his wonderful works. As I am enabled I remember you and
yours. Many, when I was with them, were mourning; ere now I hope they
are comforted. He is faithful who has promised, who also will do it.
If they hunger and thirst after CHRIST ’s righteousness, verily they
shall know that it is imputed to them. That you and your whole charge
may be filled with all the fulness of GOD, is the earnest prayer of,
dear Sir,
Your’s most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS,
_G. W._