_To the Rev. Mr. R. E._
_Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._
_Rev. and Dear Sir_,
THE cordial and tender love which I bear you, will not permit me to
neglect any opportunity of sending to you. I bless the LORD from my
soul, for raising you and several other burning and shining lights to
appear for him in this midnight of the church. My heart has been much
warmed during my voyage, by reading some of your sermons, especially
that preached before the associate presbytery. I long more and more to
hear the rise and progress of your proceedings, and how far you would
willingly carry the reformation of the church of _Scotland_. There
are some expressions which I suppose will be interpreted to your
disadvantage, both by your domestic and foreign enemies. I should be
glad to know who are those martyrs to which you refer, and of what
nature those _covenants_ were which you mention in your sermon. My
ignorance of the constitution of the _Scotch_ church is the cause of
my writing after this manner. I should be obliged to you, if you would
be pleased to recommend to me some useful books, especially such which
open the holy sacrament; for in GOD’s law is my delight. _Boston’s
fourfold State of Man_ I like exceedingly. Under GOD it has been
of much service to my soul. I believe I agree with you and him
in the essential truths of christianity. I bless GOD, his spirit
has convinced me of our eternal election by the Father through
the Son, of our free justification through faith in his blood, of
our sanctification as the consequence of that, and of our final
perseverance and glorification as the result of all. These I am
persuaded GOD has joined together; these, neither men nor devils shall
ever be able to put asunder. My only scruple at present is, “Whether
you approve of taking the sword in defence of your religious rights?”
One of our _English_ bishops I remember, when I was with him, called
you _Cameronians_. They, I think, took up arms, which I think to be
contrary to the spirit of JESUS CHRIST and his apostles. Some few
passages in your sermon before the presbytery, I thought were a little
suspicious of favouring that principle. I pray GOD your next may
inform me that I am mistaken: For when zeal carries us to such a
length, I think it ceases to be zeal according to knowledge. Dearest
Sir, be not angry at my writing thus freely. I love, I honour you in
the bowels, and for the sake of JESUS CHRIST, from my soul. I wish you
good luck in all your pious undertakings. I pray GOD to prosper the
works of your hands, and to make you a noble instrument in bringing
many sons to glory. Pray send an immediate answer, directed as usual,
and care will be taken to have it remitted to, reverend and dear Sir,
Your most affectionate brother, friend, fellow-labourer,
and obliged servant,
_G. W._