Prizing Highly the Privilege of the Lord's Supper

A selection from a letter by Rev. J. H. Thornwell, to one of his daughters. He wrote the letter from Mobile, Alabama, on January 20, 1858. He had received a letter from her and was delighted that she had “prized so highly the privilege of the Lord’s Supper.”

I was particularly delighted that you prized so highly the privilege of the Lord’s Supper. It is indeed a feast to those who love the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity and truth. He is the food of our souls. To His precious blood we look for pardon; to His righteousness, for favour; and to His Spirit, for holiness. He is as willing, as He is able, to bless us; and it is a glorious thing when we can resign ourselves into His hands, feeling that we are nothing, and that He is everything. Endeavour, my dear child, to live close to Him, and to seek His guidance and His favour in everything. Confide in Him as a friend, and trust Him with all your cares. Lean upon Him, as you would lean upon your father, and He will keep you in all your ways. Never forget to pray, and to study the Holy Scriptures, and ask for light to understand them.

The Life and Letters of James Henley Thornwell, first published in 1875, republished by the Banner of Truth, 1974, p. 433.

Such a Victory

A selection from a letter by Francis Ridley Havergal, the beloved hymn writer, to a clerical friend and his wife, written on Christmas day, 1873.

Several times lately I have felt literally overwhelmed and overpowered with the realization of God’s unspeakable goodness to me. I say it deliberately, and with thankfulness and joy for which I have no words; I have not a fear, or a doubt, or a care, or a shadow of a shadow upon the sunshine of my heart. Every day brings some quite new cause for praise; only today He has given me such a victory as I never had before, in a very strong temptation, lifted me above it in a way I never experienced yet. And I believe He will ‘keep’ me henceforth as I never before believed possible.

Letters by the Late Frances Ridley Havergal, edited by her sister, Maria V. G. Havergal, first published in 1885, reprinted by Kessinger Publishing, p. 139.

Real Religion

A portion of a letter by William Jay to his fiancée, Miss Anne Davies. They were married on January 6, 1791, Mr. Roland Hills performing the service. The date is not given for this letter but it was written not long before the wedding. Mr. Jay expressed the kind of marriage he hoped for.

Yes, my love, let us determine to live as strangers and pilgrims here, and plainly declare by our profession and conduct that we seek a better country, that is a heavenly. Not when we shall be incapable of pursuing this world, and when our gust for earthly pleasure shall be abated by old age; but now while our affections are so warm, and when so many are carried away by the vanity of the world and the pride of life, let us unreservedly dedicate ourselves to God, and present ourselves as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is our reasonable service. Nothing but real religion can make us holy and happy in any situation or relation. In proportion as it prevails we shall find heaven begun below.

The Autobiography of William Jay, first published in 1854 and reprinted by The Banner of Truth Trust, 1974, p. 483.

I Desire to Follow His Guidance

A selection from a letter by Augustus Toplady to the Countess of Huntingdon, about his role as a “regular” preacher, a sentinel who keeps to his post, rather than a cavalry officer that is ready for duty wherever he is sent. The letter was written December 9, 1774.

I remember that, in one of my last conversations with dear Mr. Whitefield, antecedently to his last voyage to America, that great and precious man of God said as follows: ‘My good sir, why do not you come out? Why do not you come out? You might be abundantly more useful, were you to widen your sphere, and preach at large, instead of restraining your ministry to a few parish churches.’ My answer was to this effect: that ‘The same Providence which bids others roll at large seems to have confined me to a particular orbit.’

And, I honestly own, I am still of the same mind. If there be, for me, a yet more excellent way, God, I trust, will reveal even this to me. I hope I can truly say, that I desire to follow his guidance with a single eye.

The Works of Augustus Toplady, Bookshelf Publications, reprint from the 1794 edition, p. 862.

The Fatality of Sin in Private

A selection from a letter by the one-eyed Baptist preacher of Wales, Christmas Evans, to a young preacher with advice on how to have a successful ministry. The letter was probably written towards the end of his life, which occurred in 1838.

Remember this, that you cannot commit some loved sin in private, and perform the work of the ministry in public, with facility and acceptance. For a preacher to fall into sin, be it a secret one, and to live in it, is as fatal, ultimately, as the cutting of Samson’s hair. Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus against all corruption.

Christmas Evans: The Life and Times of the One-Eyed Preacher of Wales, by Tim Shenton, Evangelical Press, 2001, p. 445.

The Need for Real Unction

A selection from a letter by Thomas Chalmers to his friend, Charles Bridges, author and pastor in Suffolk, England. Chalmers was professor of divinity at the University of Edinburgh. He wanted for himself and for his students more than orthodoxy; he desired that they be energized by the Spirit for their Gospel labors. The letter was written January 2, 1834.

I deeply feel my need of effort and prayer, that my whole course may be more and more spiritualized, assured as I am of the possibility of delivering all the lessons of theology in the strictest form of sound words, and with the fullest adherence to the letter of the truth as it is in Jesus, while the real unction and vitality of the Gospel spirit may be altogether wanting.

Letters of Thomas Chalmers, edited by William Hanna, first published 1853, reprinted by The Banner of Truth, 2007, p. 324.

Where Are You Going, My Dear Child?

A letter by Rev. Daniel Baker to his daughter. He was away from home preaching meetings in North Carolina. When away from home he usually wrote his children, and when he did, he often exhorted them to think of eternity and the need for professing faith in Christ. This letter was written in 1834.

My daughter, remember your father and mother are going to heaven; where are you going, my dear child? Are you willing to be separated from your parents in that eternity which is hastening on? Take care of your soul for if you lose that, what have you got beside?

Making Many Glad: The Life and Labours of Daniel Baker, by William M. Baker, first published in 1858, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, 2000, p. 194.

She Is Gone To Heaven

A selection from a letter by John A. Broadus to his wife, Maria, after the death of his beloved sister, Carry Whitescarver. He was grieved over her passing but thankful that she had lived an exemplary life and had gone to be with the Lord. The letter was written September 1, 1852.

May her holy life, and this her hopeful, happy death be the life and death of her so unworthy, yet so richly-blessed, ‘baby’ brother! Oh, that sister was dear to me, dearer than any knew, dearer than I knew myself, yet she is gone! But then, she is gone to heaven; and I can hope, humbly and trustingly, that by the grace of God I shall see my sister Carry again, and part from her no more. My dear Maria, be a Christian, with all your heart, now.

Life and Letters of John Albert Broadus, by Archibald Thomas Robertson, 1901, reprint by Gano Books, p. 100.

A Successful Year

A selection from a letter written by William Carey to his good friend and supporter, John Sutcliffe. While Carey mined for jewels in India Sutcliffe helped hold the ropes in England. Carey was known as a “plodder.” This letter shows how he could faithfully plod along in spite of the difficulties and discouragements of the work. The letter was written on January 1, 1806.

I think this past year has been on several accounts the most successful one of the Mission, since its commencement. We have disagreeable things in sufficient number to keep us from security, and to humble us, nor is the success of the Gospel, at all, proportioned to the vast multitude of souls in this country. Yet we have increased and been blessed. Twenty seven natives and three Europeans have been this year added to us by baptism. We have less irregularity, and fewer defections to mourn than in any preceding year, though some instances of both have occurred. We have some growing, useful gifts among our native brethren, and I am mistaken if there be not an increase of true piety among them.

The Journal and Selected Letters of William Carey, collected and edited by Terry G. Carter, Smyth & Helwys, 2000, p. 158.

Lay Hold On Jesus Christ

A selection from a letter by Robert Murray M’Cheyne to someone whom he did not know. He knew her cousin, who asked him to write her a letter encouraging her to believe in Christ. Andrew Bonar, who included several of M’Cheyne’s letters in his Memoir and Remains of M’Cheyne, wrote this heading: “To a Stranger. Intended to lead on one whose face was Zionward, but who was not fully decided.” What evangelistic zeal M’Cheyne possessed! This wasn’t a form letter; it was a person letter to someone he didn’t know yet desired to see them converted. The letter was written in July of 1840.

My dear friend, I do not even know your name; but your cousin has been telling me about your case, and wishes me to write you a line inviting you to lay hold on Jesus Christ, the only refuge for a perishing soul. You seem to have been thinking seriously of your soul for some time. Do remember the words of Peter (2 Pet. 1:10): ‘Give diligence to make your calling and election sure.’ Never rest till you can say what John says (1 John 5:19): ‘We know that we are of God.’ The world always loves to believe that it is impossible to know that we are converted. If you ask them, they will say, ‘I am not sure—I cannot tell;’ but the whole Bible declares we may receive, and know we have received, the forgiveness of sins (see Ps. 32:1; 1 John 2:12). Seek this blessedness—the joy of having forgiveness; it is sweeter than honey and the honeycomb. But where shall I seek it? In Jesus Christ. ‘God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son hath not life’ (1 John 5:11-12)…

Robert Murray M’Cheyne: Memoir and Remains, Andrew A. Bonar, first published in 1884, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, 1966, pp. 283-84.

I Cannot Sell My Conscience

A selection from a letter by C. H. Spurgeon to the co-pastor and deacons of his church, the Metropolitan Tabernacle, London, England. He had withdrawn membership in the Baptist Union because liberalism was tolerated and had been censured for it. He was in Mentone, France for some rest and recuperation when he wrote this letter on November 27, 1887.

The more you know of this controversy [The Downgrade Controversy], the more will your judgements go with me as well as your hearts. It is not possible for me to communicate to any one all that has passed under my knowledge; but I have had abundant reason for every step I have taken, as the day of days will reveal. All over the various churches there is the same evil, in all denominations in measure; and from all sorts of believers comes the same thankful expression of delight that the schemes of errorists have been defeated by pouring light upon them. I cannot at this present tell you what spite has been used against me, or you would wonder indeed; but the love of God first, and your love next, are my comfort and stay. We may, perhaps, be made to feel some of the brunt of the battle in our various funds; but the Lord liveth. Our great Dr. Gill said, ‘Sir, I can be poor, but I cannot sell my conscience,’ and he has left his mantle as well as his chair in our vestry.

The Suffering Letters of C. H. Spurgeon, annotations by Hannah Wyncoll, The Wakeman Trust, 2007, p. 64.

They Are Born and They Die

A portion of a letter by Martin Luther to his friend, Philip Melanchthon, December, 1535. He wrote to tell him that he should not be deterred from returning to Wittenberg by rumors concerning the plague.

We expect your return, and should a rumor reach you, then endure and overcome it. We hope that, even if there should be any future cases of contagious disease [around here], we will nevertheless have clean air (instead of this Scythian sky). Were it the plague, it would need other symptoms. Everywhere on earth people are mortal; they are born and they die. We cannot all remain alive here on earth, otherwise we will not get yonder.

Luther's Works, Letters III, Vol. 50, #266, edited by J. J. Pelikan, H. C. Oswald and H. T. Lehmann, Fortress Press.

The Proofs of Our Having Been Christians

A selection from a letter by James A. Haldane to his aunt, upon hearing of the sudden death of her husband. In writing to comfort her, he commented on the necessity of godly living so as to be prepared for that day when we shall all stand before the Lord. The letter was written August 14, 1804:

I should wish constantly to connect every word I speak and every action I perform with the judgment-seat of Jesus, for according to our words and actions we shall stand or fall. The holiness of our lives, our deadness to the world, and all that is in it, our constant pressing forward to win Christ, and to be found in Him; esteeming everything else but loss and dung; sacrificing to this great object every inclination of our corrupt nature, and every consideration which would for a moment divert our attention from Christ, these and these alone will in the great day of God be the proofs of our having been Christians. If we be risen with Christ, let us seek the things that are above. Yes, we shall infallibly do so, for in that case we must have the spirit of Christ, and where the spirit of Christ dwells there will be conformity to him, whose whole heart and affections were constantly fixed on his heavenly Father.

The Lives of Robert and James Haldane, by Alexander Haldane, first published in 1852, reprinted by The Banner of Truth, 1990, p. 345.

Building Up and Fortifying the Church

A selection from a letter by Rev. William Still to his congregation, Gilcomston South Church of Scotland, Aberdeen, November, 1960:

The Church’s first task, it seems to me, is to keep being herself in a changing world, and thus to build herself up and fortify herself against the growing onslaughts of evil, as prophesied in history and in each successive generation. This she can only do by being, not evangelically minded, devotionally or convention minded, socially minded, ecumenically minded, or politically minded; but by taking the whole Word of God as her diet, and feeding and building herself up on that. Thus she preserves her strength for every heroic task, including all these, and makes impact, often painful impact, upon all the life of her day.

The Letters of William Still, The Banner of Truth, 1984, pp. 75-76.

More Prayer

A selection from a letter by Elizabeth Prentiss, author of Stepping Heavenward, a book which has touched the hearts of many, to her husband, George Lewis Prentiss, written in October of 1869.

I am not skilled in argument, but my heart sides with God in everything, and my conception of His character is such a beautiful one that I feel that He can not err… The more time we spend upon our knees, in real communion with God, the better we shall comprehend His wonderful nature, and how impossible it is to submit that nature to the rules by which we judge human beings. Every turn in life brings me back to this—more prayer.

More Love to Thee: The Life and Letters of Elizabeth Prentiss, George Lewis Prentiss, reprinted by Solid Ground Christian Books, p. 279.

Family Worship

A portion of a letter from Rev. Joseph Kinghorn, pastor of St. Mary’s Baptist Church, Norwich, England, written to Rev. William Newman, who had just become the president of Stepney Academy on March 25, 1811. The letter was filled with spiritual counsel on many practical subjects, including the importance of maintaining family worship.

You will do well, also, to pay a particular attention to your family worship; not so much that it be long as that it be regular, and conducted in a manner likely to support a devotional feeling, and a sense of its importance. Let it not be broken upon, or treated as a matter of mere conveniency.

The Life and Works of Joseph Kinghorn, by Martin Hood Wilkin, reprinted by Particular Baptist Press, 1995, p. 338.

Dressed Gloriously in the Robes of Gospel Righteousness

A selection from a letter by Thomas Charles to a female acquaintance that had made remarks in a letter to him about modest dress. He agreed with her but made a spiritual application in his return letter, written August 14, 1795.

What a glorious change – the garments of salvation instead of our own filthy rags! “Take away the filthy rags from him” – gracious words! Instead of driving him and his filthy garments into destruction, he is saved, as a brand plucked out of the burning; and he is clothed with a change of raiment. What a dispensation of abounding grace is here! The sin destroyed and not the sinner! – not saved in his filthy raiment, but saved and washed and dressed gloriously in the robes of gospel righteousness. How shall we adore, wonder and praise, when we appear above, thus completely arrayed!

Thomas Charles’ Spiritual Counsels: Selected from his Letters and Papers, by Edward Morgan, first published in 1836, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, 1993, pp. 379-80.

Self-Determination Cannot Lead to Conversion

A portion of a letter from Jonathan Edwards to Rev. John Erskine in Scotland about the fatal doctrine of self-determination. He was sounding a warning against the pernicious errors of Henry Home (Lord Kames) who had distorted the truth of evangelical conversion. The letter was written on August 3, 1757.

And this notion of self-dependence and self-determination tends to prevent or enervate all prayer to God for converting grace; for why should men earnestly cry to God for his grace, to determine their hearts to that, which they must be determined to of themselves? And indeed it destroys the very notion of conversion itself. There can properly be no such thing, or anything akin to what the Scripture speaks of as conversion, renovation of the heart, regeneration, etc. if growing good by a number of successive self-determined acts, be all that is required, or to be expected.

Jonathan Edwards: Letters and Personal Writings, edited by George S. Claghorn, vol. 16 in The Works of Jonathan Edwards, Yale University Press, 1998, p. 723.

Standing Up For Christ

A selection from a letter by Augusta Toplady to a pastor in New York. He was encouraged to know that there were faithful Church of England men ministering in America. Mr. Toplady, an opponent of Pelagianism and Arminianism, commented on defending the gospel in his letter. It was written on September 6, 1773.

I can never sufficiently bless God for giving me to see the day when I can truly affirm that I care not whom I displease when the inestimable truths of his gospel are at stake. His providence has rendered me independent on any but himself; and his grace enables me to act accordingly. I must likewise add, as a still further motive to my gratitude, that the bolder I am in his cause, the more he gives me the affections of those to whom I minister, and with whom I am connected. Where I have lost one friend by standing up for Christ, I have gained a multitude.

The Works of Augustus Toplady, Bookshelf Publications, reprint from the 1794 edition, p. 847.

The Valuable Experiences of Brainerd and Elliot

A selection from a letter by Thomas Chalmers to “a young Clergyman,” giving him advice for the work of the ministry. Chalmers advised the young minister to model his ministry after the lives of two great missionaries to the American Indians – David Brainerd and John Elliot. The letter was written November 12, 1838.

It is a most valuable experience of Brainerd—that the regular distribution of time is essential to one’s religious prosperity; and of Elliot—that through faith in Christ Jesus, it is in the power of prayer and of pains to do everything.

Letters of Thomas Chalmers, edited by William Hanna, first published 1853, reprinted by The Banner of Truth, 2007, pp. 311-12.

On Ill Terms with Myself

A selection from a letter by John Newton to his close friend, Rev. William Bull, who was pastor of a dissenting congregation about five miles from Olney. This letter was written in the cold of winter (January 27, 1778), when Newton said “cold predominates in my frostbound spirit.”

I have reason to be upon ill terms with myself. It is strange that pride should ever find any thing in my experience to feed upon; but this completes my character for folly, vileness, and inconsistence, that I am not only poor but proud; and, though I am convinced I am a very wretch, as nothing before the Lord, I am prone to go forth among my fellow-creatures as though I were wise and good.

Letters of John Newton: with Biographical Sketches and Notes, by Josiah Bull, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, p. 301.

An Instrument in Saving Some

A selection from a letter by Robert L. Dabney to his mother. The year was 1868. The South was undergoing great hardships due to Reconstruction. He told his mother that he was filled with “melancholy” because of the “present oppressions.” Yet he rejoiced that there were some things that could not be taken away. The letter was written on February 15, 1868.

The labors of my life seem to be like marks made on a sand beach for the rising tide to wash away, save as I may have been instrumental in saving some souls. That work, thank God, cannot be undone by the malice of men or devils.

The Life and Letters of Robert Lewis Dabney, by Thomas Cary Johnson, first published in 1903, reprinted by the Banner of Truth Trust, 1977, p. 303.

Till I Have These Marks I Am Not a Christian

A portion of a letter by John Wesley to John Bennet, a lay-preacher of the Methodist Societies. The letter was written in June 1744.

If the Bible be true, then none is a Christian who has not the marks of a Christian there laid down. One of these is the love of God, which must be felt (if it is in the soul) as much as fire upon the body. Another is the witness of God's Spirit with my spirit that I am a child of God. Till I have these marks I am not a Christian; and no power can give me these but that which made the world.

The Letters of John Wesley, edited by John Telford, Epworth Press, 1931, also online at www.wesley.nnu.edu/John_Wesley/letters/index.htm

He Is Calculated For Great Usefulness

A selection from a letter by Henry Venn, Church of England minister, to his very dear friend, Rev. James Stillingfleet. He mentions a young man just ordained for gospel ministry whose ministry would be greatly blessed of the Lord – Charles Simeon. The letter was written October 9, 1782.

On Trinity Sunday was ordained Mr. Simeon, Fellow of King’s College. Before that day, he never was in company with an earnest Christian. Soon after, he was visited by Mr. H. Jowett, and my son, and two or three more. In less than seventeen Sundays, by preaching for Mr. Atkinson, in a church at Cambridge, he filled it with hearers—a thing unknown there for near a century. He has been over to see me six times within the last three months; he is calculated for great usefulness, and is full of faith and love. My soul is always the better for his visits. Oh, to flame, as he does, with zeal, and yet be beautified with meekness! The day he was a substitute for Mr. Atkinson, he began to visit the parishioners from house to house. Full of philanthropy was his address: “I am come to inquire after your welfare. Are you happy?” His evident regard for their good disarmed them of their bitterness; and it is amazing what success he has met with!

Letters of Henry Venn, by John Venn, first published in 1835, republished by the Banner of Truth, 1993, pp. 351-52.

If That Never Be

A selection from a letter by Samuel Rutherford (1600-1661), who had been removed from his pulpit in Anwoth and banished to Aberdeen for his nonconformist views. The letter was written to Lady Kenmure in 1637. He longed to be preaching in Anwoth again but was submissive to the will of God.

If my Lord would be pleased, I would desire some were dealt with for my return to Anwoth; but if that never be, thank God. Anwoth is not heaven, preaching is not Christ; I hope to wait on.

Letters of Samuel Rutherford: A Selection, The Banner of Truth Trust, the first edition of letters was published in 1664, this selection was published in 1973, p. 59.

Before It Be Too Late

A selection from a letter by the Puritan preacher, Joseph Alleine, to a cousin, encouraging her and her husband to love and follow Christ rather than the world. Mr. Alliene was in poor health and would die soon afterwards at the age of 34. This letter was written October 21, 1668.

Away with these lazy prayers, away with these cold and heartless professions, away with this drowsy, lifeless, listless, religion! Bestir yourself to purpose for your soul, before it be too late. Search your conscience, as with candles; be jealous of yourself. Consider, now is your time; what you do, you must do quickly. The patience of God is waiting, Christ is knocking, the Spirit of God is striving, and death is at the door. Oh, now take your opportunity, and take heed lest a slothful heart, and the cares of this world, or a presumptuous confidence that all is well and safe already, should at last shut you out of the kingdom of God.

Life and Letters of Joseph Alleine, by Rev. Richard Baxter, Theodosia Alleine, and others, with a new introduction by Joel R. Beeke and Herb Samworth, Reformation Heritage Books, reprinted in 2003, p. 257.

Promote His Glory in the Conversion of Sinners

A portion of a letter written by John A. Broadus to Miss Cornelia Taliaferro, September 5, 1853. He told her about the blessing of God he had experienced in seeing sinners converted when preaching in various meetings.

Our kind Father will not fail to bless to our own growth in grace and comfort of love, any sincere effort, however feeble, which we make to promote his glory in the conversion of sinners; and this blessing may be realized, not only by the preacher in the pulpit, but by every Christian in private efforts to do good to individuals.

Life and Letters of John Albert Broadus, by Archibald Thomas Robertson, 1901, reprint by Gano Books, p. 113.

Is Jesus Increasingly Precious?

Ruth Bryan (1805-1860) wrote these words in a letter to a friend, August 27, 1850. She ministered too many people in the sweet, encouraging letters she wrote, always lifting up Christ. She was the daughter of a pastor in Nottingham, England.

Is Jesus increasingly precious, more than ever desirable? Is He, in your esteem, better than rubies, and all the things that may lawfully be desired not to be compared to Him? Is the Holy Spirit sharpening your appetite for this Bread of Life, so that with more ardent longings you are saying, "None but Jesus!" When He is in the right place, other things will be so; it is His rising in the soul that makes them sink to their proper level. And oh! He is so worthy, so suitable, so altogether lovely--we cannot prize Him too much, or hold Him too fast, or lean on Him too heavily. My highest praise of Him is far below His worth; but through rich grace, I, a vile sinner, have tasted and handled of this precious Word of life, and found such blessed benefit, such soul-invigoration, that I want to set others longing for these royal dainties!

Letters of Ruth Bryan, Reformation Heritage Books, reprinted 2005. Available online at
www.gracegems.org/Bryan/letters_of_ruth_bryan.htm

Revival in the Midst of War

A selection from a letter by a Confederate soldier, Tally Simpson, written to his sister Mary, April 10, 1863. Tally Simpson, along with his brother, Dick, enlisted in the army for the Southern cause in April 1861. Dick was discharged from service in July 1862 because of severe illness. Tally was killed in the battle of Chickamauga, September 20, 1863.

The revival still continues, and several hundred of Barksdale’s men have been converted, and many more are still anxious about their soul’s salvation. I saw, the other day, about twelve young men baptized in [the] Baptist faith. The pool is under the pulpit, and all to be done is to lift off the floor of the pulpit, where the preacher stands every Sunday, and there is the pool of the proper size. The evening was very cold, and it went very hard with the poor fellows. It was a touching sight, and I could not help thinking of the account given in the New Testament when Jesus was baptized by John. My prayers ascended to Heaven in behalf of the young converts, and Oh! how I wish we all, friends and relatives, and in fact every one, were in the Arc of Safety at this moment. I believe if we were all Christians this moment the war would close immediately. But as our nation is wicked, God will chastise it severely ere He stays his hand.

Far, Far From Home: The Wartime Letters of Dick and Tally Simpson, 3rd South Carolina Volunteers, edited by Guy R. Everson and Edward W. Simpson, Jr., Oxford University Press, 1994, pp. 213-14.

Praying for Missionaries

A selection from a letter by Samuel Pearce, pastor of the Cannon Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, England, to William Carey, missionary in India. Pearce desired to join Carey in his work but his congregation and other pastor friends persuaded him not to go. He regarded their counsel “as the voice of God.” Though he did not go to India, he was a major supporter of the work of Carey and did much to promote missions. This letter was written March 27, 1795:

Daily in our closets and in our families do we remember you before God; and, in the sanctuary, the tribes of God’s spiritual Israel wrestle hard for you Sabbath after Sabbath. Nor shall we pray in vain—God, even our own God, will bless you; his promise is on your side, and through him you shall do valiantly; never will he forsake his servants, nor leave them unassisted in their work; but your ‘confidence is strong;’ I rejoice that it is so, for ‘this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith;’ and he who hath been the author of that faith will, I doubt not, be the finisher of it too.

A Heart for Missions: The Classic Memoir of Samuel Pearce, by Andrew Fuller, with an introduction by Michael Haykin, reprinted by Solid Ground Christian Books, 2006, p. 53.

God's Ways are Always Good and Right

A selection from a letter by Martyn Lloyd-Jones to Mrs. J. Gwyn-Thomas concerning the death of her husband. Mr. Thomas was only 54 years of age when he died. Lloyd-Jones regarded him as “a very dear and valued friend.” The letter was written November 21, 1977.

God’s ways are beyond our understanding but we know that they are always good and right. He alone can help and strengthen you; and He has promised to do so. All we your friends can do is to pray for you, and we shall do so.

D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones Letters 1919-1981, Selected with Notes, by Ian H. Murray, Banner of Truth, 1994, p. 224.

Prophecy

A portion of a letter written by Robert Murray M’Cheyne to Mr. George Shaw of Belfast, Northern Ireland. Mr. Shaw had written M’Cheyne about a number of subjects, the understanding of prophecy being one of them. M’Cheyne’s letter was written on September 16, 1840:

As to the mode of studying prophecy, dear friend, I am far from being a capable adviser. My advice, however, is that you begin with the simple and more unquestioned parts, and then advance to the more difficult ground. Begin with fulfilled prophecy; you will thus gain an intimate acquaintance with the language and manner of the prophetic writings. Then advance to the marks of unfulfilled prophecy, and cautiously and prayerfully to those parts that are obviously unfulfilled. This would be a most interesting course, and if humbly followed out, cannot but give you great light and interest in the cause of Israel, and the world’s conversion.

Robert Murray M’Cheyne: Memoir and Remains, Andrew A. Bonar, first published in 1884, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, 1966, p. 292.

Habitual Rest in God

A selection from a letter by Andrew Fuller, to his friend John Ryland, expressing joy in the Lord even though he had undergone a heavy trial. The letter was written December 21, 1801.

I have lately had another heavy trial. Yet, under all, blessed be God, my heart is fixed, trusting in him. I have seldom enjoyed more habitual rest in God, than of late. O how sweet it is to have no will of my own, but that of God! I know I have an interest in your intercessions, and those of many other dear friends.

The Work of Faith, the Labor of Love and the Patience of Hope: Illustrated in the Life and Death of the Rev. Andrew Fuller, by John Ryland, published by Button & Sons, Paternoster Row, London, 1818, p. 238.

Ready to Preach

A selection from a letter by C. H. Spurgeon to his congregation, the Metropolitan Tabernacle, London, England, while he was recuperating from illness in Mentone, France. He was soon to return to the pulpit and anticipated with joy the privilege of preaching the gospel once again. The letter was written January 22, 1891.

I am glad that I am so near returning to you, for I am feeling ready and even eager to engage once more in the happy work of proclaiming the gospel to the crowd. This week’s printed sermon will assure you that I stand by the old standard; and I am all the more bound to do so when I note the new developments of error, of which I am bound to say that they seem form different points of view as horrible as ludicrous. There is no telling what we shall hear next; but Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and for ever.

The Suffering Letters of C. H. Spurgeon, annotations by Hannah Wyncoll, The Wakeman Trust, 2007, p. 77.

Agreement in Truth

A portion of a letter written by the Calvinistic Methodist Welsh preacher, Howell Harris, to his friend George Whitefield. He spoke of a visit with Charles Wesley and confirmed to his delight a point of agreement between them. The letter was written in October of 1741.

Brother Charles Wesley came to Town last Saturday night, and we providentially met; he owned he had no freewill until four years ago,—that it was God that chose him first, and not he God, and that he is kept faithful by the faithfulness of God.—He spoke tenderly of you and seemed to be quite loving and teachable.

The Life and Times of Howell Harris: The First Itinerant Preacher in Wales, by Edward Morgan, first published in 1852, republished in 1998 by Need of the Times Publishers, p. 93.

Election - The Only Adequate Ground of Encouragement for Preaching the Gospel

In 1832, Rev. Ebenezer Porter wrote a series of letters that were published in a religious periodical entitled, The Spirit of the Pilgrims. The letters reflect Mr. Porter’s eyewitness testimony of the revivals that took place in New England, which continued for many years, having begun in 1798. This selection highlights one of the doctrines that pastors who were the most useful in times of revival believed—the doctrine of election.

…I ought to state explicitly a concurrent and nearly universal sentiment of the pastors who were most instrumental of revivals, that the doctrine of election is the only adequate ground of encouragement in preaching the gospel. They reasoned thus: ‘The carnal mind is enmity against God.’ Sinners, left to themselves, without special, divine influence, will never repent. The best means in themselves are utterly ineffectual, and, without the Holy Spirit, will bring no one to comply with the terms of the gospel. Were it not revealed, then, that God has determined to render his truth efficacious in bringing some to faith and holiness, every minister who believes the Bible would see no encouragement to preach the gospel, and every sinner who understands his own depravity would be in total despair.

Letters on Revival, Ebenezer Porter, The Banner of Truth Trust, 2004, pp.20-21.

Has God No Claims?

A selection from a letter by A. W. Pink to Mr. Harold Bradshaw of Norwich, England. I had the privilege of knowing Mr. Bradshaw’s son, Dudley, who is now with the Lord, and who was pastor of the Baptist Chapel in Brooke. Mr. Pink quoted a portion of his introduction to his book, The Sovereignty of God, in his letter to Mr. Bradshaw. Pink’s book was written while he was a resident of the United States. The letter was written sometime in 1943, when he lived on the Isle of Sky.

Probably 95% of the religious literature of the day is devoted to a setting forth of the duties and obligations of men. The fact is that those who undertake to expound the responsibility of men are the very ones who have lost the ‘balance of truth’ by ignoring very largely the Sovereignty of God. It is perfectly right to insist on the responsibility of man, but what of God?—has he no claims, no rights? A hundred such works as this are needed, and ten thousand sermons would have to be preached throughout the land on this subject, if the ‘balance of truth’ is to be regained… Surely there is far more danger of making too much of man and too little of God, than there is of making too much of God and too little of man.

The Life of Arthur W. Pink, revised and enlarged edition, by Ian Murray, The Banner of Truth, 2004, p. 233.

Think What a Wicked Heart You Have

A selection from a letter by Rev. Benjamin Morgan Palmer to his oldest daughter, Sarah Francis, when she was 12 years old. He wanted her to have a good education but he also wanted to see her come to faith in Christ. The letter was written on June 29, 1857:

How often and fervently I pray that God would give you a new heart. Do you remember two years ago this very month when you were so ill, how alarmed you were; how you talked with me, and told me you were afraid to die because you felt that you were not ready? I hoped when you got well, that you would remember all this; and that you would be so grateful to God for sparing your life, as to give him your heart at once. But I was disappointed—you got well, and then forgot all these solemn things. I do not know how much you think about your soul, and whether you pray fervently for a new heart. But I am afraid you do not; and you are now two years older, and know more than you did then… Dear, dear Fanny, will you not think about these things—think what a wicked heart you have—that unless it is changed, you cannot go to heaven—that you may die any moment, and be lost forever? Think, too, how ready Christ is to save you, if you will only go to him—and then delay not—go at once to him, my daughter, and be saved through his grace.

The Life and Letters of Benjamin Morgan Palmer, by Thomas Cary Johnson, first published in 1906, published by the Banner of Truth Trust in 1987, pp. 226-27.

It's Best to Read the Bible

A selection from a letter by J. C. Philpot to his sister, Miss Fanny Philpot, whom he had recommended certain books for reading. The letter was written October 16, 1839.

But, after all, the Word of God, under the teachings of the blessed Spirit, is the most profitable companion for a living soul. It is said of Jesus, “Then opened He their understandings that they might understand the Scriptures.” Blessed instruction is it when He that hath the key of David opens His own word, and opens our heart to receive it with heavenly unction and divine authority!

Letters and Memoir of Joseph Charles Philpot, first published in 1871, reprinted by Baker Book House, 1981, p. 132.

Which Church to Join

A portion of a letter by Rev. James Haldane to his son who had recently moved to London. He encouraged him to find the best church and to join it. The letter was written in 1822.

I should wish you to be connected with that Church in which most of the religion of Jesus was exemplified, where the deepest impressions of the value of your soul, and the importance of eternity, the riches of the love of God, the freeness of His salvation, and the glory and beauty of holiness should be maintained in your heart, where you would have fewest temptations to conformity to this present evil world, and where the doctrine you heard was most scriptural and impressive.

The Lives of Robert and James Haldane, by Alexander Haldane, first published in 1852, reprinted by The Banner of Truth, 1990, p. 379.

The Dust is My Place

A portion of a letter from Rev. Daniel Baker to his daughter about his own estimation of himself. The letter was written from Savannah, Georgia, on November 26, 1850:

Why, really, I am led to think, or at least I am tempted to think, I am ‘somebody.’ But I know too well my unworthiness in the sight of God, to be lifted up. No, no, the dust is my place, and the plea of the Publican is my plea.

Making Many Glad: The Life and Labours of Daniel Baker, prepared by his son, Rev. William M. Baker, first published in 1858, reprinted by the Banner of Truth Trust, 2000, p. 426.

Pleasure in Reading the Bible

A selection of a letter by Rev. John Elias, written to his daughter, Phoebe. He always encouraged her in the things of the Lord in his letters. This letter was written on August 8, 1834:

I am moreover glad that you have pleasure in reading the Bible. It is the tree that sweetens, under God’s blessing, the bitter waters of Marah. The consolation had in the Scriptures, is far superior to any other; there is a well of joy that never fails like others. Strive to look up to Christ by perusing the Bible, in hearing sermons, and in prayer; and run, as the chief of sinners, to him.

John Elias: Life, Letters and Essays, by Edward Morgan, the Banner of Truth Trust, 1773, p. 201.

He Chooses Better

A portion of a letter by John Newton to a friend. No date is given. Jerry Bridges quotes this letter in his book, Respectable Sins: Confronting the Sins We Tolerate, p.66.

How happy are they who can resign all to [God], see his hand in every dispensation, and believe that he chooses better for them than they possibly could for themselves.

Letters of John Newton, printed by the Banner of Truth, 1960, p. 137.

All Will Be Well

A selection from a letter by Thomas Charles to a friend about spiritual strength for duty in the Lord’s work. The letter has no date:

Let us walk humbly with God, live steadfastly by faith upon him, and act boldly and faithfully for him; and all will be well.

Thomas Charles’ Spiritual Counsels: Selected from his Letters and Papers, by Edward Morgan, first published in 1836, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, 1993, p. 365.

Pray

A selection from a letter by Martin Luther to his wife, Katie. He exhorted for her to pray for the children. The letter was written on July 26, 1540.

Pray, and have [the children] pray against that horrible Satan who most violently attacks us not only in soul and body but also in property and honor. May Christ our Lord come down from heaven and also start a little fire [see Gen. 19:24; 2 Kings 1:10; Ezek. 21:31; Luke 9:54] for the devil and his companions which the devil would be unable to extinguish. Amen.

Luther's Works, Letters III, Vol. 50, edited by J. J. Pelikan, H. C. Oswald and H. T. Lehmann, Fortress Press, letter # 290.

To Die Well

A selection from a letter by John Calvin to the brethren of France who had faced persecution for Christ. The letter was written in November, 1559:

It has been said of old that the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church. If it is a seed from which we derive our origin in Jesus Christ, it should also be a shower to water us that we may grow and make progress, even so as to die well. For if this blood is precious in the sight of God, it ought not to be unprofitable for us; thus we see that St. Paul boasts that his bonds have contributed to the advancement of the gospel and expects that in his death the name of Jesus Christ will be exalted.

Letters from John Calvin: Selected from the Bonnet Edition, the Banner of Truth, 1980, pp. 223-24.

Edwards on Justification

An extract from a letter by Andrew Fuller to Timothy Dwight, grandson of Jonathan Edwards. The letter was written on June 1, 1805, commending the writings of Jonathan Edwards.

The writings of your grandfather, President Edwards, and of your uncle, the late Dr. Edwards [Jr.], have been food to me and many others. Our brethren Carey, Marshman, Ward, and Chamberlain, in the East Indies, all greatly approve of them. The President’s sermons on justification have afforded me more satisfaction on that important doctrine than any human performance which I have read.

The Armies of the Lamb: The Spirituality of Andrew Fuller, edited and introduced by Michael A. G. Haykin, Joshua Press, pp. 199-200.

Pilgrim's Progress

A selection from a letter by Ernie Reisinger to a young friend, Hiram Walker. He had sent him a copy of Pilgrim’s Progress and Pictorial Pilgrim’s Progress. The letter was written on January 17, 1985:

Next to the Bible I think Pilgrim’s Progress is one of the five most valuable books I have ever read. I have read it eighteen times and get new Biblical insight each time I read it. Charles Haddon Spurgeon, probably the greatest Baptist preacher that ever lived, read it a hundred times.

Ernest C. Reisinger: A Biography, by Geoffrey Thomas, The Banner of Truth Trust, 2002, p. 149.

Strike Away

A selection from a letter to Robert L. Dabney by his mentor, Rev. William S. White, of Lexington, Virginia. Dabney was a young pastor and was in depression of spirits. Rev. White wrote to encourage him in the work of preaching. The letter was written on January 26, 1849:

Remember that it is ‘neither the first blow nor the last that fells the oak.’ Therefore, strike away, and the tree will fall and the forest be cleared. I know no means of building up and extending the borders of Zion but the truth studied, learned, communicated, and then followed by prayer. Preach as if your preaching was everything, and then pray as if it were nothing. If I could not rest in this view, I should despair.

The Life and Letters of Robert Lewis Dabney, by Thomas Cary Johnson, first published in 1903, reprinted by the Banner of Truth Trust, 1977, p. 111.

We Were Sisters

From Maggie Paton, wife of missionary to the New Hebrides, John Paton, to a friend back home in Stirling, Scotland, about the reaction of women natives on the island of Fotuna, who saw white women for the first time. The letter was written on October 17, 1865:

The ladies were, in consequence, very curious to have us examined properly; and they went about it in a business-like way, as I can testify from the pokes and thumps received. They always felt themselves at the same time, to see how far we were alike! Poor things, they had yet to learn that we were sisters, resting under the same penalty and equally in need of and entitled to the same Saviour.

Letters and Sketches from the New Hebrides, by Maggie Whitecross Paton, printed by Reformation Heritage Books and Sprinkle Publications, 2003, p. 27.

Leave Wrangling

A selection from a letter by David Kinghorn to his son Joseph Kinghorn, pastor of St. Mary’s Baptist Church, Norwich, England. He always wrote his son with helpful spiritual advice. This letter was written on August 23, 1794.

Controversy, except on a few subjects, if pursued, cats out the vitals of religion; happy they who steadily pursue the path of duty marked out to them by Divine providence, and leave wrangling, as not worthy of their attention.

The Life and Works of Joseph Kinghorn, by Martin Hood Wilkin, reprinted by Particular Baptist Press, 1995, p. 238.

Suffering With Christ

A portion of a letter by Samuel Rutherford, to Lady Kenmure, written from Anwoth, June 26, 1630:

You cannot, you must not have a more pleasant or more easy condition here, than he had, who ‘through afflictions was made perfect’ [Heb. 2:10]. We may indeed think, Cannot God bring us to heaven with ease and prosperity? Who doubteth but he can? But his infinite wisdom thinketh and decreeth the contrary; and though we cannot see a reason for it, yet he hath a most just reason.

Letters of Samuel Rutherford: A Selection, The Banner of Truth Trust, the first edition of letters was published in 1664, this selection was published in 1973, p. 18.

A Little But Great Incident

A portion of a letter written to John A. Broadus from T. M. Matthews of Edom, Texas, expressing his appreciation for something he wrote in an “autograph book.” What Broadus wrote was instrumental in Matthew’s salvation. The letter was written May 22, 1883.

I’ve never seen you since 1853 in the pulpit of the church in Charlottesville [VA] when I heard you preach. But, John, you have been preaching to me through all these years. I’ll tell you how. You remember our “autograph books?” Well, of all the students I took mine to you first, that you might write in it the first. Do you remember? I reckon not, however, you wrote: en se hustereo [one thing you lack] (Mark 10:21), John Albert Broadus, University of Virginia.

That rang in my ears till I found “the pearl of great price,” the thing you knew I lacked. I’ve often thought of you since and never without recalling this little, but to me great, incident.

Life and Letters of John Albert Broadus, by Archibald Thomas Robertson, 1901, reprint by Gano Books, pp. 339-40.

Speaking About Religion or Possessing Religion?

A selection from a letter by Thomas Chalmers to is friend, William Wilberforce, member of the English Parliament. The letter was written June 25, 1822:

We had a visit from Mr. Gray of Sunderland lately, one of the good men of the Church of England. It is truly refreshing to have a visit from such; it always puts me in mind of a saying of Brainerd’s, that he has heard hundreds speak about religion, but not above one or two speak religion. We Scotch speak about it—look at the matter intellectually—come forth with our didactic and metaphysical speculations about the thing; but the evangelical English, as far as I can observe, possess the thing; and possessing it, they have by far the most effective ingredient of good preaching, which is the personal piety of the preacher himself.

Letters of Thomas Chalmers, edited by William Hanna, first published 1853, reprinted by The Banner of Truth, 2007, pp 98-99.

Dark Clouds and Sunshine

A selection from a letter by Thomas Charles to a pastor and his family who had experienced a sore trial. The letter was written February 26, 1784.

It shall be well at last with the righteous; and though for a season a dark cloud should hang over him, yet he may be well assured, that every cloud is big with blessings; and the darker it is, the more blessings it contains; and when it has emptied itself, the sun will shine comfortably. The cloud and its contents are as necessary as the sun. Without the cloud the heat of the sun would burn the earth, so that it would bring forth no fruit to perfection. The rain and the sun together make a fruitful season. Let us therefore bless God for the one as well as for the other.

Thomas Charles’ Spiritual Counsels: Selected from his Letters and Papers, by Edward Morgan, first published in 1836, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, 1993, p. 355.

Love God And Do As You Like

A selection from a letter by William Still to his congregation, Gilcomston South Church of Scotland, Aberdeen, November, 1946:

St. Augustine, you know, had a motto – ‘Love God and do as you like.’ This is a very sound maxim, and fully Scriptural. But it is the second part that attracts us. If we really love God, we shall do what He likes us to do.

The Letters of William Still, The Banner of Truth, 1984, p. 23.

A Great Desire

A selection from a letter by Jonathan Edwards to George Whitefield, requesting him to come and preach in Northampton. The letter was written on February 12, 1739 or 1740. Whitefield accepted the invitation and arrived in Northampton to preach the gospel on October 17, 1740. Great blessing attended the meeting.

My request to you is that, in your intended journey through New England the next summer, you would be pleased to visit Northampton. I hope it is not wholly from curiosity that I desire to see and hear you in this place; but I apprehend, from what I have heard, that you are one that has the blessing of heaven attending you wherever you go; and I have a great desire, if it may be the will of God, that such a blessing as attends your person and labors may descend on this town, and may enter mine own house, and that I may receive it in my own soul.

Jonathan Edwards: Letters and Personal Writings, edited by George S. Claghorn, vol. 16 in The Works of Jonathan Edwards, Yale University Press, 1998, p. 80.

Bereavements

A portion of a letter by Benjamin Morgan Palmer, to a friend from his childhood, Sallie Baxter (now Bird), written July 8, 1870. Both of them had experienced much grief with the loss of loved ones in death.

My bereavements have not been comparable with yours; still they were and are keenly felt. But I am continually surprised to find how I am able to gather all these tender and tearful memories about me, in the consciousness that in the bosom of them all I am more deeply, yet more serenely, happy that I even was before.

It seems a violent contradiction. But there is happiness in submission to God’s blessed will—in the subdued tone which grief lends to the character. There is a sanctifying virtue in sorrow, which brings us into closer sympathy with out transfigured ones who are with the Lord. It seems as though the rest into which they have entered had thrown a soft shadow upon our own life, tranquilizing those cares which formerly chafed us…

The Life and Letters of Benjamin Morgan Palmer, by Thomas Cary Johnson, Banner of Truth, p. 404.

I Cannot Write Without Him

A selection from a letter by the beloved hymn writer, Francis Ridley Havergal, to a friend who had written to thank her for two of her hymns. The letter was written October 30, 1874.

What you tell me of the Lord setting His manifested seal upon two of my hymns, “O thou chosen Church of Jesus,” and Certainly I will be with thee,” made me feel very unworthy and very thankful, and (I cannot help saying it) sent a new thrill of love through my heart to Him who is so good to me. If you ever sing my hymns again, will you send up a prayer that I may more and more rejoice in the truths which they feebly represent; and, if it be our Master’s will, that He would give me yet many more powerful messages of song, for I cannot write without Him.

Letters by the Late Frances Ridley Havergal, edited by her sister, Maria V. G. Havergal, first published in 1885, reprinted by Kessinger Publishing, p. 218.

The Promise is True

A selection from a letter by Rev. Daniel Baker to his close friend, Rev. John S. Galloway, pastor in Springfield, Ohio, about the joy he experienced in seeing sinners converted in eight weeks of meetings in Arkansas. The letter was written March 29, 1848:

Thank God, the promise is true, that they that sow in tears shall reap in joy; and that he that goeth forth weeping, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. O for a stronger and more simple faith in God’s blessed word! For want of this we oftentimes lose much.

Making Many Glad: The Life and Labours of Daniel Baker, by William M. Baker, first published in 1858, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, 2000, p. 322.

Coming to the Services

From an annual letter written to the members of Westminster Chapel by Martyn Lloyd-Jones, January, 1968:

Nothing can be more encouraging to any preacher than to feel that people come to the services, not out of habit or a sense of duty, but with a deep desire to worship God and to get to know more of Him through our Lord and Saviour.

D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones Letters 1919-1981, Selected with Notes, by Ian H. Murray, Banner of Truth, 1994, p. 177.

We Must Give Account

A letter by Andrew Fuller, to his good friend, John Ryland, Jr., who was soon to move to Bristol to take up a teaching post at the Baptist College. The letter was written on December 3, 1793:

My Dear Brother,

I have no other occasion for writing, than to express my earnest desire, that your important removal may be for good. I am satisfied you are in the path of duty; on this consideration, I am willing to part with you. I loved Carey, but I loved the cause of Christ better; and on that account, I could not be sorry at his departure [to India]; though it was with a probability never to see him more.

Your views of divine truth, I consider as of great importance in the Christian ministry. Go then, my Brother, pour them into the minds of the rising generation of ministers. Perhaps, there could not have been a station in which you would have had so fair an opportunity of propagating gospel-truth. Let us do all we can in our different stations. Respectability of character and situation affords great opportunity of doing good. We have several of us, in different ways, hereby, fresh openings for usefulness. It is a trust, as well as other things, of which we must give account; and I hope our account will be with joy, and not with grief.

I have found, the more I do for Christ, the better it is with me. I never enjoyed so much of the pleasures of religion, as I have within the last two years, since we have engaged in the Mission business. Mr. Whitfield used to say, “The more a man does for God, the more he may.”

I should have been glad to have seen you at Kettering. As that cannot be, the Lord God of Israel prosper your way!

I am,
Very affectionately, yours,
Andrew Fuller

P.S. I will write as often as I find something interesting to write about, and opportunity admits. I hope you will do the same.

The Work of Faith, the Labor of Love and the Patience of Hope: Illustrated in the Life and Death of the Rev. Andrew Fuller, by John Ryland, published by Button & Sons, Paternoster Row, London, 1818, pp. 225-26.

Supported in Times of Affliction

A selection from a letter by the Calvinistic Methodist preacher, Thomas Charles, to a friend who had suffered heavy affliction. He shares with her the blessing that an affliction was to him. The letter was probably written in 1812:

I rejoice that you are in some degree supported under your heavy affliction, and that your thoughts are directed to the Lord, with some degree of submission to his sovereign will, and of confidence in his goodness, care, and faithfulness. I can say that the heaviest affliction I ever met with was one of my greatest blessings. I refer you to three Scriptures which were peculiarly blessed to me at that time and often afterwards, to wit, Rom. viii.32; Heb. vi.17, 18; Isa. liv. 10. Supported by these strong, unshaken and immoveable pillars, it was easy for me to bear all.

Thomas Charles’ Spiritual Counsels: Selected from his Letters and Papers, by Edward Morgan, first published in 1836, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, 1993, p. 321.

The Lord Make You a Boanerges and a Barnabas

A selection from a letter by Robert Murray M'Cheyne, to Rev. Patrick L. Miller, who had just been called to be the minister of the church in Wallacetown, located in south west Scotland. The letter was written on September 18, 1840:

I cannot tell you how sincerely I thank God for the event of this evening. You are unanimously chosen minister of Wallacetown. I have already been on my knees to praise God for it, and to pray that you may be filled with the Holy Spirit for this glorious work… The Lord humble, empty, satisfy, and fill you – make you a Boanerges and a Barnabas all in one. May the Lord arise, and His enemies be scattered; and may poor parched Angus become like the garden of the Lord.

Robert Murray M’Cheyne: Memoir and Remains, Andrew A. Bonar, first published in 1884, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, 1966, p. 190.

Be A Good Boy

A selection from a letter by Rev. J. H. Thornwell, to his six year old son, Gillespie, written when he was away from home, June 17, 1851:

Your mother is now with me, and we often think and talk and pray about our dear little boy in Sumter District [South Carolina]. We know that you are in the hands of kind friends, who will take the best care of you. But we are very anxious that you should try and be a good boy yourself. You must mind everything that cousin Sarah Ann, or Mr. Knox, says to you. Learn all the lessons they give you; use no bad words; answer your questions every Sunday; and pray to God every morning and night. It would do your father a great deal of good to see you fond of reading the Bible, and other books. I hope that God may yet make you a preacher. There is nothing that would please me so much as to see you a good man, and in the pulpit. You must not think it smart to be rude and boisterous, and cruel to poor animals, that cannot help themselves. You must not curse or wear, for anything in the world; and no matter what you do, never tell a story; always speak out the truth, whatever may be the consequences.

The Life and Letters of James Henley Thornwell, first published in 1875, republished by the Banner of Truth, 1974, p. 350-51.

All Are Warranted to Approach

An evangelistic letter from Thomas Chalmers to a friend whom he longed to see converted, written November 13, 1825:

My Very Dear Sir,

I have no peculiar mode of addressing the Gospel to any one class of human creatures. It is a wide and general proclamation of mercy to all, and whatever the age or condition of the sinner, still he is welcome to Christ; and coming unto Him he shall in no wise be cast out. All are warranted to approach, even with boldness, to that throne of grace where they shall receive both mercy to pardon and grace to help in every time of need.

It is a wonders plea that the Psalmist urges for pardon, “Pardon mine iniquity, for it is great.” That greatness of transgression, which would preclude the hope of forgiveness from an earthly superior whom we had offended, is the very argument which we are encouraged to make use of in praying for pardon from Him, whose thoughts are not as our thoughts, and whose ways are not as our ways. May you, my dear Sir, and all with whom you are connected, have great peace and joy in thus believing; and sure I am, that when Gospel peace enters, Gospel holiness will follow in its train. Have you read Romaine’s “Treatises on Faith?”—they are very precious.—Believe me, my dear Sir, yours truly,

Thomas Chalmers

Letters of Thomas Chalmers, edited by William Hanna, first published 1853, reprinted by The Banner of Truth, 2007, p. 298.

How I Could Be So Blind

A portion of a letter by Henry Venn, Church of England minister, to James Kershaw, September 7, 1771:

Twenty years ago I was accustomed to solitude; and I believe no one was ever happier in it. Though I was then seeking to enter into life, by keeping the commandments, yet do I still remember the hours of delightful devotion, the earnest supplications I was offering up for a heart dead to every thing but God. I am sometimes wondering how I could be so blind, and yet so comfortable; and am myself a witness, what pains a man may take to go to heaven, and yet be quite in the dark.

Letters of Henry Venn, by John Venn, first published in 1835, republished by the Banner of Truth, 1993, pp. 187-88.

What Is My Skin To His Glory!

A portion of a letter by Samuel Rutherford, to Alexander Henderson, written in exile from Aberdeen, Scotland, March 9, 1637:

I protest to you (my witness is in heaven) that I could wish many pound weights added to my cross, to know that by my sufferings Christ were set forward in his kingly office in this land. O what is my skin to his glory! Or my losses, or my sad heart, to the apple of the eye of our Lord and his beloved Spouse, his precious truth, his royal privileges, the glory of manifested justice in giving his foes a dash, the testimony of his faithful servants who do glorify him, when he rideth upon poor weak worms, and triumpheth in them! I desire you to pray that I may come out of this furnace with honesty, and that I may leave Christ’s truth no worse than I found it; and that this most honourable cause may neither be stained nor weakened.

Letters of Samuel Rutherford: A Selection, The Banner of Truth Trust, the first edition of letters was published in 1664, this selection was published in 1973, p. 62.

Gracious Visitations to Our Souls

A portion of a letter by the Welsh pastor, John Elias, to his sister Phoebe, with the hope that the revival fires that were stirring in the country were stirring in her heart. The letter was written February 10, 1832:

Oh may we long more earnestly and ardently for the gracious visitations of the Lord to our country and neighbourhoods, but especially to our own souls. I hope, my dear Phoebe, that you my dear child, are not destitute of these delightful visits of heaven these days. May the Lord speak to your precious soul as you read his holy Word, and as you hear the preaching of the Gospel; and may you draw near to him as a Father, through the blood of Christ; yea, may you come boldly to the throne of grace, to receive grace and mercy to help you in the time of need: help in need as wanted, according to circumstances and necessities, and in time, that is quite enough; no more is required.

It is most profitable to take every trial and burden unto the Lord, to set before him all your complaints, and to cast all your care upon him, for he careth in a very kind and tender manner for us. We may safely entrust him with the concerns of our bodies and souls, our temporal and eternal interests. He is very kind and pitiful, and ready to hear different cases of distress; able to bear all our burdens, to relieve all our wants, and wise to lead us through the intricate wilderness, and guide us safely to the end of the journey.

John Elias: Life, Letters and Essays, by Edward Morgan, first published in 1844, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, 1973, p. 200.

Be Ashamed Yet Do Not Despair

A selection from a letter by Andrew Fuller, to his wayward son, Robert, whom he longed to see in Christ and living a godly life, written in December of 1808. Fuller’s son died three months later. In letters written to his father prior to his death, Fuller’s biographer, John Ryland, Jr., could say, “We hope, he was led to see the error of his way, and to make the Lord his refuge from the tempest and the storm.”

My dear son! I am now nearly fifty-five years old, and may soon expect to go the way of all the earth! But, before I die, let me teach you the good and the right way. “Hear the instructions of a father.” You have had a large portion of God’s preserving goodness; or you had, ere now, perished in your sins. Think of this, and give thanks to the Father of mercies, who has hitherto preserved you. Think, too, how you have requited him, and be ashamed for all that you have done. Nevertheless, do not despair! Far as you have gone, and low as you are sunk in sin, yet if, from hence, you return to God by Jesus Christ, you will find mercy. Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners, even the chief of sinners. If you had been ever so sober and steady in your behaviour towards men, yet, without repentance towards God and faith in Christ, you could not have been saved; and, if you return to God by him, though your sins be great and aggravated, yet will you find mercy.

The Work of Faith, the Labor of Love and the Patience of Hope: Illustrated in the Life and Death of the Rev. Andrew Fuller, by John Ryland, published by Button & Sons, Paternoster Row, London, 1818, p. 303.

Read the Life of Joseph Kinghorn

The following is a letter I wrote to a friend commending The Life and Works of Joseph Kinghorn. My favorite biography is the two volumes by Iain Murray on the life of Martyn Lloyd-Jones, but next to it is this volume about Joseph Kinghorn. If you have not read it, I hope you will obtain a copy and learn about one of the great Baptist lights of the 19th Century.

November 11, 1996

Dear ______:

I am writing you in order to encourage you to read The Life and Works of Joseph Kinghorn, recently republished by the Particular Baptist Press of Springfield, Missouri. I found it to be a most instructive and heart-warming read.

My interest in Kinghorn, in part, is due to the fact that he ministered in the city of Norwich, England, as pastor of the St. Mary's Baptist Church. I lived just outside Norwich for three years as pastor of a Strict and Particular Baptist Church. My acquaintance with Kinghorn in those days was limited, but I knew of his ministry in Norwich and throughout the county of Norfolk in the 19th Century was tremendous. It was a spiritual treat to discover that the biography of Kinghorn, written by Martin Hood Wilkin, was back in print. Also included in this edition is the funeral sermon for Kinghorn by John Alexander and a tribute sermon about him by John Bane.

Kinghorn was born in 1766 and died in 1832. That period for Baptist is immensely important, as you well know. Kinghorn is not as well known among us as Fuller, Sutcliff, Carey, Hall, Pearce, etc., but he deserves to be.

Some of the highlights of the book for me are the following:

1. Kinghorn attended the Baptist Academy at Bristol. Much information is found in this volume about the school, its teachers, and the struggles the brethren overcame to offer young men preparing for the ministry a good theological education.

2. Kinghorn had a wonderful relationship with his father, who also was a Baptist preacher. The correspondence between the two is worth twice the price of the book. His father offered him much good council and advice. I will give you one example of admonition that David Kinghorn passed along to his 16 year old son when arguments about the deity of Christ and the trinity led many into Unitarianism.

"I advise thee my son to beware of the vain jangling of such persons as are forward to dispute about the Deity, seeing we can know no more of him than what is revealed in Scripture; what its says, and not what man says, is to be our rule. But the great things in religion are to be most attended to; holiness in heart and life, without which no man shall see the Lord… I intreat thee to be swift to hear, slow to speak, especially about the sacred trinity. Sherlock says, 'One fool may start many queries, which a hundred wise men cannot answer, and that not only about religious, but natural or philosophical things'" (p. 31).

3. Kinghorn pastored one church his entire life. From 1789 until his death 43 years later in 1832, he labored in Norwich. He also was responsible for starting churches in villages and towns in the county of Norfolk.

4. Kinghorn was a scholar and theologian as well as pastor. He was learned in the original languages of Scripture, especially Hebrew. He sets a great example for pastors to be learned men, and not just professors at the Seminary.

5. Many of the controversies of Baptist life in the 19th Century are evident in the book. Calvinism and HyperCalvinism, strict and open communion, church and state, missions and anti-missions, the mode and subjects for baptism, the extent of the atonement, etc., are issues with which Kinghorn interacted.

These are just some of the things that stand out in this wonderful biography. I hope you will buy or borrow a copy and read it for your own spiritual edification.

Copies can be obtained through Cumberland Valley Bible Book Service or directly from the publisher, Particular Baptist Press, 2766 W. Weaver Road, Springfield, MO 65810.

Sincerely in Christ,

Dean Olive

The Atonement in Point of Power and Design

A letter in full by Joseph Kinghorn, pastor of St. Mary’s Baptist Church, Norwich, England, to a friend who had criticized his understanding of the gospel. He wrote an earlier letter to her (April 29 and May 1) and then followed it up with this letter, explaining his understanding of the extent of the atonement of Christ.

Norwich
May 11th, 1826

I am not sure that my remarks in my last went to the bottom of the subject, but as far as they went consider them. Perhaps you are afraid that such a plan of reasoning will run across the redemption by Jesus Christ and make it of that general kind that will lead to Arminianism. Our best Calvinistic writers have not thought so. This, you will say, is mere authority—granted. I would then ask, do either the scriptures or reason applied to the principles of the scriptures lead us to conclude, that suppose the number of the elect was greater than it is, the atonement made by the death of Christ would be insufficient for their salvation?

Should you say, as some have done, that there was so much atonement made for sinners precisely, and no more, I would ask you to pause a moment, and say, how can you prove it? Since it was the character of the sufferer that gave weight to both his obedience and suffering, how are we to throw a line round infinity and measure that which is beyond measure? What then, you may ask, limits the redemption of sinners and draws the line of distinction between that general idea of redemption, which, by taking in everybody, makes it especially applicable to nobody; and the opinion of the highest Calvinists, viz.—so much atonement and no more?

I reply, the election of grace; so that the Lord came to fulfil a plan; making an atonement, which in point of power would have saved more, had more been included in the plan, but in point of design, and ultimately in point of application, was made for those who were given him.

This is a very brief sketch, and I cannot conceive it new to you; but I direct your attention to it, to show that the limits of the Calvinistic system go further than they are sometimes supposed, and that we need not be afraid of going to the extent, if only we know where to stop. If you purchase an estate you know you have a right to cultivate it, up to the last inch. Some good people are so afraid of being Arminians, that they leave a large piece of their territorial inheritance to the briars and thorns of the wilderness.

J.K.

The Life and Works of Joseph Kinghorn, by Martin Hood Wilkin, reprinted by Particular Baptist Press, 1995, p. 416.

I Love to Write to My Dear

A letter from the Lord Protector of England, Oliver Cromwell, to his wife, written from Edinburgh, May 3, 1651:

My Dearest,

I could not satisfy myself to omit this post, although I have not much to write; yet indeed I love to write to my Dear, who is very much in my heart. It joys me to hear thy soul prospereth: the Lord increase his favours to thee more and more. The great good thy soul can wish is, that the Lord lift upon thee the light of his countenance, which is better than life. The Lord bless all thy good counsel and example to all those about thee, and hear all thy prayers, and accept thee always.


'To Honor God:' The Spiritually of Oliver Cromwell, edited and introduced by Michael A. G. Haykin, Joshua Press, 1999, p. 87.

Let God Worry About Me

A portion of a letter from Martin Luther to his wife, Katie, who had been worrying about him. The letter was written on February 7, 1546. He died eleven days later after experiencing a heart attack or stroke.

Grace and peace in the Lord! You, dear Katie, read John and the Small Catechism, about which you once said: Everything in this book has been said about me. For you prefer to worry about me instead of letting God worry, as if he were not almighty and could not create ten Doctor Martins, should the old one drown in the Saale, or burn in the oven, or perish in Wolfgang’s bird trap. Free me from your worries. I have a caretaker who is better than you and all the angels; he lies in the cradle and rests on a virgin’s bosom, and yet, nevertheless, he sits at the right hand of God, the almighty Father. Therefore be at peace.

Luther's Works, Letters III, Vol. 50, edited by J. J. Pelikan, H. C. Oswald and H. T. Lehmann, Fortress Press, letter # 321.

Your Sinfulness Far Exceeds All That You Have Stated

A portion of a letter written by Charles Simeon of Cambridge, to Lord Harrowby, whose son, Granville, had been deeply depressed. Simeon told Lord Harrowby about a conversation he had had with the son. Simeon gave advice quite different than he had been receiving from his friends. The letter was written in February, 1823. Mr. Simeon told the lad:

You see yourself guilty of sins which preclude a hope of forgiveness. Your friends have endeavoured to shew you that you judge yourself too hardly. In this they have erred for, if they have succeeded, they have given you a peace founded on your own worthiness, a peace that would last no longer than till the next temptation arose in your mind… If they have not succeeded, they have only confirmed you in your views. I say to you the very reverse. Your views of yourself (your own sinfulness) though they may be erroneous, are not one atom too strong. Your sinfulness far exceeds all that you have stated, or have any conception of. “Your heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked: who can know it?” But I have an effectual remedy for them all – “the blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth from all sin.” I grant that you are lost and utterly undone. So are all mankind – some for gross sins – some for impenitence – some for other sins. You are lost for the very sins you mention, hardness of hear, indifference, etc…

Do this then, take a book as large as any that is in the Bank of England. Put down all the sins of which either conscience or a morbid imagination can accuse you. Fear not to add to their number all that Satan himself can suggest.

And this I will do. I will put on the creditor side “the unsearchable riches of Christ” and will leave you to draw the balance…

Charles Simeon of Cambridge, by Hugh Evan Hopkins, Hodder & Stoughton, 1977, p. 126.

Meet Me In Heaven

This is a letter written by C. H. Spurgeon to a young boy whom he longed to see saved. A portion of this letter was read by Jonathan Watson at the Banner Youth Conference, March 2008, in an address on the value of reading Spurgeon’s works (see The Banner of Truth Magazine, July 2008). It reveals the evangelistic heart of this great preacher. He was in poor health but he took the time to write this lad about his greatest need. The letter was used of the Lord to savingly bring this young boy to Christ.

Westwood,

Norwood, July 1, 1890

O Lord, bless this letter.

My Dear Arthur Layzell,

I was a little while ago at a meeting for prayer where a large number of ministers were gathered together. The subject of prayer was “our children.” It soon brought the tears to my eyes to hear those good fathers pleading with God for their sons and daughters. As they went on entreating the Lord to save their families my heart seemed ready to burst with strong desire that it might be even so. Then I thought, I will write to those sons and daughters, to remind them of their parents’ prayers.

Dear Arthur, you are highly privileged in having parents who pray for you. Your name is known in the courts of heaven. Your case has been laid before the throne of God.

Do you not pray for yourself? If you do not do so, why not? If other people value your soul, can it be right for you to neglect it? See, the entreaties and wrestlings of your father will not save you if you never seek the Lord yourself. You know this.

You do not intend to cause grief to dear mother and father: but you do. So long as you are not saved, they can never rest. However obedient and sweet and kind you may be, they will never feel happy about you until you believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and so find everlasting salvation.

Think of this. Remember how much you have already sinned, and none can wash you but Jesus. When you grow up you may become very sinful, and none can change your nature and make you holy but the Lord Jesus, through His Spirit.

You need what father and mother seek for you and you need it NOW. Why not seek it at once? I heard a father pray, “Lord, save our children, and save them young.” It is never too soon to be safe; never too soon to be happy; never too soon to be holy. Jesus loves to receive the very young ones.

You cannot save yourself, but the great Lord Jesus can save you. Ask him to do it. “He that asketh receiveth.” Then trust in Jesus to save you. He can do it, for he died and rose again that whosoever believeth in him might not perish, but have everlasting life.

Come and tell Jesus you have sinned; seek forgiveness; trust in Him for it, and be sure that you are saved.

Then imitate our Lord. Be at home what Jesus was at Nazareth. Yours will be a happy home, and your dear father and mother will feel that the dearest wish of their hearts has been granted them.

I pray you think of heaven and hell, for in one of those places you will live forever. Meet me in heaven. Meet me at once at the mercy-seat. Run upstairs and pray to the great Father, through Jesus Christ.

Yours very lovingly,

C. H. Spurgeon

Spurgeon: A New Biography, by Arnold Dallimore, The Banner of Truth Trust, 1985, pp. 224-25.

A Sweet Farewell

A selection from a letter by John Calvin to Melanchthon, urging him to be strong in his stance on the issue of the Lord’s Supper in face of opposition. Calvin ended the letter with a warm expression of love to his friend. The letter was written March 5, 1555:

Farewell, most renowned and my ever honoured sir. May the Lord govern you by his Spirit, defend you with his protection, sustain you by his power, and may he always keep us in holy union, till at length he gather us into his heavenly kingdom.

Letters from John Calvin: Selected from the Bonnet Edition, the Banner of Truth, 1980, pp. 169-70.

Great Likeness to Jesus

A portion of a letter written by Robert Murray McCheyne to Rev. Dan Edwards, who was on his way to Germany as a missionary. The letter was written on October 2, 1840:

I trust you will have a pleasant and profitable time in Germany. I know you will apply hard to German; but do not forget the culture of the inner man—I mean of the heart. How diligently the cavalry officer keeps his saber clean and sharp; every stain he rubs off with the greatest care. Remember you are God’s sword, His instrument—I trust a chosen vessel unto Him to bear His name. In great measure, according to the purity and perfections of the instrument, will be the success. It is not great talents God blesses so much as great likeness to Jesus. A holy minister is an awful weapon in the hand of God.

Robert Murray M’Cheyne: Memoir and Remains, Andrew A. Bonar, first published in 1884, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, 1966, p. 282.

God Has Used You In My Life

An extract from a letter by Ernie Reisinger to Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, expressing appreciation for the influence he had exercised in his life. The letter was written on May 20, 1968:

I felt this morning I wanted to just drop you a few lines telling you how greatly God has used you in my own life and in the lives of many, many men in this country. Time would not permit me to recount the number of testimonies of preachers as to the great help they have received from your writings, and when I meet the men from your country, such as Jim Packer, Iain Murray and others, they have personally acknowledged to me their deep love and gratitude to God for your life and ministry. They have both called you ‘father’ in the proper sense of that expression.

Ernest C. Reisinger: A Biography, by Geoffrey Thomas, The Banner of Truth Trust, 2002, pp. 137-38.

Plain Dealing

A selection from a letter by A. W. Pink to Harold J. Bradshaw of Norwich, England. Iain Murray says that the most remarkable correspondence of Pink that survives is the letters exchanged between Bradshaw and Pink. I have had the privilege of seeing these letters, having known Dudley Bradshaw, the son of Harold Bradshaw. Bradshaw grew up under hyper-Calvinistic teaching and struggled with assurance. Pink spoke plainly to him in an attempt to help him either to become a genuine believer or gain the certainty of salvation.

A postman may be gruff, even surly, but that is (relatively) a trifling matter if he hands you a valuable letter! I am an ‘earthen’ and not a golden vessel. I may not be as suave as you might wish, I may even appear harsh, but I hope you will not suffer such defects in your would-be physician to prejudice you against his treatment of your case. This is a day which calls for plain dealing, not Judas-like kisses.

The Life of Arthur W. Pink, by Iain H. Murray, revised and enlarged edition, The Banner of Truth Trust, 2004, p. 231.

Into The Heavenly City

A selection from a letter by Eliza McCoy, the niece of the beloved missionary to the American Indians, Isaac McCoy, after his death. She wrote to comfort Mrs. McCoy. The letter was written on June 9, 1846:

I have reflected much upon the infinite happiness with which his soul is now filled. By an eye of faith I have followed him to the heavenly city. At the entrance stood his parents, all of his brothers but one, with eleven of his children, to welcome him through the gates. Nor were these all; for near by there stood a group arrayed in robes of victory with harps of gold in their hands. And as they raised the notes of praise to their loftiest strain, they said, “We are those from the red man’s land, to whom you carried the news of salvation. We listened to your story of a Savior’s dying love; we believed, cast ourselves at the feet of that Savior, sought and obtained His mercy. We have, some of us, long since been called home. Now, with heavenly rapture, we hail you as you enter upon eternal rest from all your earthly toils.” But even this is not all. He was introduced into the very presence of the Savior in whose cause it was his meat and his drink to labor when on earth.

Isaac McCoy: Apostle of the Western Trail, by George M. Ella, Particular Baptist Press, 2002, pp. 555-56.

Had He Not Been Prepared

A letter by Rev. Daniel Baker, pastoring in Tuscalossa, Alabama at the time, to his dear friend, Rev. John S. Galloway, pastor in Springfield, Ohio; writing about a convert who died shortly after his conversion. The letter was written February 25, 1839:

Dear Brother Galloway:

I told you of the revival with which we were favoured last fall. Well, one of the converts died a few days since, furnishing a new proof of the great importance of at once securing the salvation of the soul. This young convert, a very interesting and talented young man, was accidently shot while hunting, and died in about six hours. On hearing the sad intelligence that he had received a mortal wound, I stepped into a carriage and went to the place, about two miles from the city, where I found him lying upon the ground, weltering in his gore. He was in great agony of body; he groaned and cried aloud, so that his voice re-echoed through the grove. ‘My dear brother,’ said I, ‘Is Christ precious?’ “He is,’ replied he. ‘Are you willing to die?’ ‘Yes.’ ‘Are you happy?’ ‘Yes.’ ‘Well, I trust you will soon be in heaven; and there is no pain there.’ As soon as I mentioned this, he seemed to be wonderfully calmed, and, as well as I can recollect, he cried aloud no more. Observing his apparent composure, I thought his pain was really gone; but on putting the question, he said, ‘Great pain.’ He was brought in a furniture carriage to town. I though he would have died on the road; but he was carried to the house of a friend, and, in about two hours after, he peacefully fell asleep in Jesus. O, what a blessed thing it is to be a Christian! As our Master says, ‘Blessed is that servant whom our Lord, when he cometh, shall find watching.’ Had he not bee prepared, when shot, how could he have been when he died? O, how do poor sinners place in peril the salvation of their souls! My dear brother, your business and mine is to do what we can to awaken them. May the Lord make us more earnest and more faithful in our great work.

With Christian salutations, your brother in Christ,
Daniel Baker

Making Many Glad: The Life and Labours of Daniel Baker, by William M. Baker, first published in 1858, reprinted by the Banner of Truth, 2000, p. 217-18.