Memoir, 1796–1799

Chown Lecturer of Trimtv Charch — Engages Mr. Tbomason as bb Curate — Obtoim the Curacy of Staplefoni — Subdivision of his Religious Society — Vindication of such Societies — Abuses of them — Publication of Claude Essay — The first volume of Skeleton’s — Appendix and Preface — Arcbbtshop Seeker’s remarks — Order from Charles II. to the University — Continued efibrts for Missions — Meeting at Mr. Wilberforce’s — Letter from Dr. Coulthurst — Second journey to Scotland — Dr. Principal Hill — Dr. Stewart — Sir George Abercromby — Mr. Mcintosh — Mr. Calder — Provost Ingiis — The GJovemor’s zeal at Fort Augustus — Sir James Colquhoun — Oppooition of the moderate par — Returns throuffh Carlisle — Mr. Pawcett and Mrs. Gilpin — Benevolent Society at Leith — Remarks on we doctrine of Perfection — Letters from Dr. Buchanan — Effect of preaching at Edinburgh — Increased labors at Cambridge — Dr. Milner’e minion of Mr. Simeon — Letter from Mr. Venn on Missions — Formation of the Chujpch Missionaiy Society.

1796 —

MEMOIR CONTINUED.

“In 1794 I was chosen Lecturer of Trinity church without opposition; and as I thought it unprofitable for one minister to labor three times a day in the same church, I invited my dear and honored friend Mr. Thomason to become my assistant, and procured the curacy of Stapleford, in which he might minister in

* the morning, and I in the afternoon. Thus we both were fully employed; and it was a great joy to me to have such a colleague to labor with me. On his becoming my assistant (Oct. 1796,) I judged it inexpedient to continue meeting my people all together in one body, because there was not now the same necessity as formerly, and because he no less than myself would be involved in any obloquy that might attend it. To have some opportunities o£ meeting my people, I considered as indispensable; for how could I know my sheep, if I did not see them in private; and how was it possible for me to visit so many at their own houses,

’ and to find out all their different states and trials? If there were regular seasons for us to meet together, I could from time to time invite them to state to me, either before others or in private, whatever they might wish to say: and I could learn by conversation something respecting the state of their souls before God. I could learn, too, whether any were in danger of being drawn away by the dissenters, or were imbibing any erroneous tenets, or were acting in any respect unworthy of their holy profession. I am aware that even such societies as these are by manv accounted irregular, and that very few of the governors of our Church would

OHAP. YII.] VINDICATION OF BIB EBLMIOUB BOCIETT.. 81

sanction them. Indeed it is a curious fact, that the establishing of such societies is generally supposed to indicate An indifference towards the Church, when it actually proceeds from a love to the Church, and a zeal for its interests. Were the bishops acquainted with the ministers who are called evangelical, they would soon see the importance, yea, and the absolute necessity, of such meetings, not merely for the edification of the people, but chiefly for the preservation of the Established Church. The dissenters in general, and the Methodists in particular, have such meetings; and they are found to be of the highest utility for the cultivation of mutual love, and for the keeping of their respective members in one compact body. Where nothing of that kind is established, the members of any church are only as a rope of sand, and may easily be scattered with everv wind of doctrine, or drawn aside by any proselyting. sectary. What influence can a minister main* tain over his people, if he does not foster them as a brood under his wings? As to the idea of such meetings being contrary to our obligations as ministers of the Establishment, let any one read the bishop’s charge to the priests in the ordination service, and say, whether a clergyman can fulfil his duties without them? I am well persuaded he cannot; and experience proves that wherever there is an efllcient ministry in the Church without somewhat of a similar superintendence, the clergyman beats the bush, and the dissenters catch the game: whereas, where such a superintendence is maintained, the people are united as an army with banners. This has been the case in Cambridge to an extraordinary degree; for in the thirty years that I have ministered at Trinity Church, the dissenters have not (as far as I recollect) drawn away three whom I was not glad to get rid of. It has only been the refuse, who have first lost all simplicity of mind, if not wholly departed from God, that they have been able to steal from me. The number of my people, I mean of those who appeared to be spiritually enlightened, were about 120; (those who came to my church from the adjacent villages being of course omitted, on account of their distance from me;) and these I divided into six societies, of about twenty each; so that by meeting two societies, and one in every alternate week, I could see them all in the month. In these societies I separated men and women, and associated together those who were most suited to each other. One society in particular I made of those who were more judicious and experienced, and who were denominated stewards, from their having to dispose of the alms which we regularly collected in all the societies for the relief of the poor. A select number had been separated to this office, even whilst we were meeting all together; and therefore it seemed highly expedient that they should constitute a separate society now. Besides, I had now a further view in forming them into one society: for as now I could only meet the different individuals once a month,

82 SUBDIVISION OP HIS RELIGIOUS SOCIETY. [cHAP. VII.

instead of once a week, it was desirable that I should have some, in whose judgment I could confide, to inform me of all that was passing among the people; for instance, whether any were turning back from God, or inclining to the dissenters, or in any view whatever needing my peculiar care: by them, too, I could learn, far better than by any other means, the state of those who were desirous of uniting themselves with us. Moreover, I could make use of them in the first instance to rectify any little disorders, and reserve myself to interpose in matters which they were unable to accomplish. I considered myself as a coachman upon the box, and them as the reins, by which I had immediate access to every individual in my church: and, from the most mature reflection, I cannot hut consider this as of the greatest importance to the welfare of any people. That it is onen to abuse is certain; and what is there that may not be abused i Even the Apostolic Churches were more or less distracted by the conceit of some, or the violence of others; and whilst human nature is what it is, we cannot hope to find any society of men on earth free from some kind of evils; but whilst I was able to attend to all the societies myself, there was as little evil arising from this arrangment, as can be expected in any society on earth. It pleased God, however, to afflict me at last with almost a total loss of my voice, so that for the space of two years I could do very little in public, and nothing at all in private; and during that time several of the people became conceited and headstrong.

Long before I changed the plan from one society to six, there had been a weekly meeting for prayer (as there was in many other places through the kingdom) on account of the war: and when the change was made that prayer-meeting was continued, being carried on by the people without me: for, on account of my numerous societies and engagements, I could not be present at them. This was an evil; but it was one which I could not remedy. Could I have superintended and conducted them myself, I have no reason to think that any evil would have arisen from them; but, where people are left to themselves, the most conceited and the most forward will take advantage of it to show their evil dispositions; and if they can gain an ascendency, (which they too frequently will), they will prove a plague and a grief to the minister that is placed over them. So I found it: and when I returned among my people, I strove in vain to reduce them to a better state: not that «iny great evil immediately appeared: but I saw that some of the chief stewards had lost a measure of their simplicity and tractableness: and the general rage which had recently arisen through the nation for itinerant preaching, had visibly infected some amongst them. This I eideavored to stop: being well convinced that, whether it was ev’ii in itself or not, it was not possible for me as a minister of the Established Church to countenance such proceedings amongst my pedple, since I should

CHAP. VII.] PUBLICATION OF CLAUDB. 88

assuredly be represented by my enemies as a patron and encpurager of those irregularities. To a certain extent I prevailed; for I summoned the stewards to make known to them my views of the subject, and actually expelled from my societies one, who had taken out a li9ense as a preacher. But within these two years (i. e. about 1811) matters have been brought to a crisis; and the lamentable state of my people has fully appeared.**

We must here interrupt Mr. Simeon’s narrative, as the memoir passes on immediately to the record of matters which did not take place till long after this period. We shall endeavor, as far as possible, to supply the history of the interval from the scanty materials which are at present accessible.

Mr. Simeon had now for some time been engaged in giving instruction to a select class of students on the composition of sermons: and having found by experience the value of the rules laid down by Mr. Claude* in his celebrated Essay on the subject, he

f)repared to publish a new edition of the work, adopting the transation from the French, already made by Mr. Robinson of Cambridge. So far back as the commencement of ,1792, Mr. Simeon had made an abridgment of the Essay for the use of his class; and at the end of this manuscript syllabus there are ‘appended some “additional observations” of his own.f

Having revised and considerably improved Mr. Claude’s Essay, he published it in 1796 with an Appendix containing one hundred skeletons of sermons, several being the substance of discourses preached by him before the University. This Appendix was the germ of that great work, which ultimately extended to twenty-one large volumes, and was emphatically the work of his life. It may be worth while to notice Mr. Simeon’s design in compiling this Appendix, at a time when he could so little foresee to what results it would lead him. His observations also on the nature of the work itself .may not be without their use to those who feel anxious to preach the Gospel with efficiency as well as fidelity. Instruction (he observes) relative to the composition of sermons is of great importance, not only to ministers, but, eventually, to the community at lare. And it were much to be wished that more regard were paid to this in the education of those who are intended for the ministry It has sometimes been recommended to the younger clergy to transcribe printed sermons for a season, till they shall have attained an ability to compose their

The ReT. John Claude was “a minister of the reformed religion in France, who preached upwards of forty years with great acceptance, first at St Afri(|ue, afterwards at Nismee, and lastly, at Charcnton.” Prom the violence of the persecution in France he was compelled to flee to the Hague, where he ended his days.

t The following are not tan worthy of notice:” Get the mind impressed with the subject — Write your own before yon consult commentaries. — Often stop and ask, What am I writing upon 1 — What have I undertaken to explain and illustrate V’

M ‘THE NATUU AND USE OF THB 8KELSTONB* [CHAP. VU.

own. And it is to be lamented, that this advice has been too strictly followed: for, when they have once formed this habit, they find it very difficult to relinquish it... To remove, as far as possible, these difficulties from young beginners, is the intent of the skeletons annexed to this Essay. The directions given in the Essay itself cannot fail of being helpful to every one who will study them with care; but there appears to be something further wanted: something of an intermediate kind between a didactic Essay like Claude’s, and a complete sermon; something, which may simplify the theory, and set it in a practical light ... A scheme, or skeleton of a discourse, is that species of composition to which we refer. It should be not merely a sketch or outline, but a fuller draft, containing all the component parts of a sermon, and all the ideas necessary for the illustration of them, at the same time that it leaves scope for the exercise of industry and genius in him who uses it The pious and learned Bishop Beveridge has written four volumes of such skeletons, under the tiUe of Thesaurus Theologicus: and if the author had intended them for publication, he would probably have so completed his design as to supersede the necessity of any similar work.... That so great a divine should write so many compositions of that kind solely for his own use is a clear demonstration of his judgment with respect to the utility of them in general: and the circumstance of his never intending them for the public eye, is sufficient to exculpate any one from the charge of presumption who should attempt an improvement The following skeletons are not intended particularly tQ exemplify Mr. Claude’s rules .... but rather to illustrate one general rule; namely, to show llow texts may be treated in a natural manner. The Author has invariably proposed to himself three things as indispensably necessary in every discourse — unity in the design, perspicuity in the arrangement, and SIMPLICITY in the diction. ... If his life be spared, he hopes to form a system of doctrinal, practical, and experimental divinity in a series of sermons, each of them contained in two

pages, like the specimens here exhibited What may be the

number of these he can at present form no idea: they may be comprehended in three hundred, or may extend to five hundred.*** Towards the close of this year Mr. Simeon preached a sermon before the University, on Mark xvi. 15, 16, which he immediately published, under the title, “Tle Gospel Message.” To this he ‘’ annexed four skeletons upon the same text, treating in four difierent ways, with a view to illustrate all Mr. Claude’s Rules of Composition and Topics of Discourse.’” The sermon was delivered Nov. 13, 1796, and before the end of the year no less than five editions had been published; so great an interest appears to have already been excited on the subject. In the

* Th0j erentiuUj niched to the namber of two thowaiid five hundred aad tluCV’ riz. ’

month of April following, both this and the Ifbrmer publication called forth a very favorable review in the British Critic; of the later work the Reviewer observes: — The four sketches subjoined, of the se text treated on four dirent plans, afford a more extraordinary proof than even the former book, of the Author’s vast resources in point of matter, and uncommon skill in arrangement.” In the preface to this discourse Mr. Simeon makes some valuable remarks on the various modes of preparing and delivering a sermon; which perhaps may be inserted here at length, not only on account of their intrinsic worth for young ministers, but as conveying Mr. Simeon’s deliberate judgment on a subject, to which for forty years afterwards he devoted his incessant attention. — It is not possible to say what is the best mode of preaching for every individual, because the talents of men are so various, and the extent of their knowledge so different It seems at all events expedient, that a young minister should for some years pen his sermons, in order that he may attain a proper mode of expressing his thoughts, and accustoni himself to the obtaining of clear, comprehensive, and judicious views of his subject; but that he should always continue to write every word of his discourses seems by no means necessary. Not that it is at any time expedient for him to deliver an unpremeditated harangue; this would be very unsuitable to the holy and important office which he stands up to discharge. But there is a medium between such extemporaneous effusion and a servile adherence to what is written: there is a method recommended by the highest authorities, which, after we have written many hundred sermons, it may not be improper to adopt. The method referred to is, to draw out a full plan or skeleton of the discourse, -with the texts of Scripture which are proper to illustrate or enforce the several parts, and then to express the thoughts in such language as may occur at the time. This plani if it have some disadvantage in point of accuracy or elegance, has on the other hand great advantages over a written sermon: it gives a minister an opportunity of speaking with far more effect to the hearts of men, and of addressing himself to the passions, as well by his looks and gestures, as by his words. Archbishop Seeker, in his last charge, after observing in reference to the matter of our sermons, * We have, in fact, lost many of our people to sectaries by not preaching in a manner sufficiently evangelical;’ adds, in reference to the manner of our preaching. * There is a middle way, used by our predecessors, of setting down in short notes the method and principal heads, and enlarging on them in such words as present themselves at the time: perhaps, duly managed, this is the best! He then proceeds to express his disapprobation of what is called, mandating of sermons, or repeating them from memory. This custom obtains much among foreign divines, and throughout the whole Church of Scotland; and in the statute

86 OPINIONS UPON WRITTEN AND UNWRITTEN SERMONS. [cHAP. Tit.

%

book of our University there is an order from King Charles U. that this should be practised by ail the clergy, as well whea preaching before the University and at Court, as before any com* mon audience.* This shows’ at least that, if a minister had thoroughly studied his discourse, it was deemed no objection against him, that he delivered it without book. But the way proposed by Archbishop Seeker seems far preferable, on account of the unnecessary increase of labor to the minister, and because the repeating of a sermon will most generally appear, as the archbishop justly expresses it, like ‘the saying of a lesson.’ Many other authorities of the greatest note might be adduced, (as those of Bishop Wilkins, Bishop Burnet, Archbishop of Cambray, &c.,) if it were the Author’s wish to vindicate this mode of preaching; but he is far from thinking it proper for all persons, or in all places. He considers it, however, as extremely useful, where a minister’s talents will admit of it. But, after all, the great concern both of ministers and private Christians is, to enjoy the blessing of God upon their own souls. In whatever manner the Truth may be delivered, whether from a written discourse, or memoriter, or from a well-digested plan, they may expect that God will accompany it with a divine energy, if they be looking up to him in the exercise of faith and prayer. In this hope, the following sermon, and the skeletons annexed to it, are sent forth into the world: and if by means of them the excellency of the Gospel may be more clearly seen, its importance more deeply felt, and its strengthening, comforting, sanctifying efficacy more richly experienced, the Author’s labors will be abundantly repaid.”

On the subject of the rapid issues of this sermon, and his plans for future publications, Mr. 3. thus writes to his beloved and honored friend at Lynn, the Rev. E. Edwards..

“Dec, 15, 1796.

“Many of my friends have stepped forth ta promote the spread of my sermon, insomuch that the fourth and fifth editions are come out this day. I hbpe it will please God to render it

* Mr. Vicehancellor and Gentlemen, —

Whereas hU majesty being informed, that the practice of reading sermona is generally taken up by the preachers before the University, and therefipre continued even before himself, his majesty hath commanded mtf to signify to you his pleasure, that the said practice, whph took beginning with the disorders of the late times, be wholly laid aside, and that the aforesaid preachers deliver their sermons both in Latin and English by memory or without book, as being a way of preaching which his majesty judg most agreeable to the use of all foreign churches, to the custom of the University heretofore, and the nature and, intendment of that holy exercise. And that his majesty’s commands in the premises may be duly regarded and observed, his further pleasure is, that the names of all such ecclesiastical persons, as shall continue the present suiiUM and slothful way of preaching, be from time to time ugnified unto me by the vice-chancellor for the time being, upon pain of his majesty’s displeasure.

Oct 8, 17M. MoMUouTH.

Page 300 of the Statute Book.

GBAF. YII.] CONTINUED EFFORTS ON BEHALF OF MISSIONS. 87

useful both to ministers and people. I am sure I never thoroughly understood Claude (if I now do) till I set myself to that work. If it prove beneficial to none other, it has not been Idst upon my« self. You will easily perceive that it has cost me some trouble: but, though I am more lazy and indolent thanJ dare express to any of my fellow-creatures, I have, through mercy, some little desire to work while it is day. I want very much to know what my friends wish me to do. I long to begin my work, but cannot tell what will be best. Pray advise nfe; I absolutely demand your advice; because, if I rate my advisers at fifty, your vote alone will count for twenty — Shall I set about a volume of about three hundred skeletons? — Or, shall I set about one hundred half-hour sermons? — Or, shall I write sermons of three-quarters of an hour long, and consequently make them occupy three volumes instead of two? — Or, shall I mind my own business, and trouble the public no more? — What an ease would it be to my mind, if two or three friends would join in telling me to adopt the last of these plans! I assure you I would regard them most faithfully, and most joyfully. A sow does not love the mire so much as I do idleness. May God pity, pardon, and renew me! With most affectionate respects to Mrs. £. and other kind friends, I remain your most loving, most indebted friend, C. S,”

I ft

The subject of Missions to the Heathen continued to be one of absorbing interest -to Mr. Simeon; and he spared no pains to excite the zeal and secure the aid of his most influential friends in iurthering the sacred cause. His earnestness and love were felt to be worthy of imitation, even by Mr. Wilberforce himself, as appears from his Journal: —

*’ Thursday, July 20. To dine at Henry Thornton’s where Simeon and Grant, to talk over mission scheme.

“July 22. Simeon with us — his heart glowing with love of Christ. How full he is of love, and of desire to promote the spiritual benefit of others. Oh 1 that I might copy him, as he Christ. My path is indeed difficult, and mil of enemies. But God in Christ can and will strengthen and uphold us if we trust in him.”

Amongst other distinguished friends, who were ready to give him their aid, Mr. Simeon received the assurance of cordial regard, and readiness to co-operate in the scheme, from the celebrated Dr. Coulthursl* of Halifax. Dr. C. writes, —

* Dr. Coulthunt, on account of his talents, was selected to be the opponent of Dr. Hilner in 1786, when he kept the “Splendid Divinity Act,” to which Bishop Watsooilludes in his Anecdbtes of his own life. “I remember (he says having seen the Divinity Schools,* when the best Act, by Coulthurst and hilner — Arcadea ambo — ynm keeping, Uiat I ever presided at, and which might justly be called a real Academic entertainment, filled with auditors from the top to the bottom.”

n OOirriNUBD EFFOETB ON BEHALF OF MtBEIONfl. [g»AP. VII.

Od. 31, 1797.

I rejoice to hear (hat the Mission-business succeeds so Well; and if my poor endeavors can be of any avail, you are most sincerely welcome to them. * Mr. Burnet and several of my Cambridge friends informed me that you had preached the assize sermon last summer; and that it was heard with great attention and respect. You must expect for your loyalty to imdergo the fiery ordeal of Jacobinical criticism; Mr. Ben. Flower, the authors of the* Analytical Review, &c. &c., will honor you with their Calumny. Your skeletons were spoken of with great approbation. I do not use them myself, but I have lent them to some of my friends, who have occasionally used them. I had heard of the old provost’s death. You have lost a man, who, (whatever might be his private sentiments,) always expressed a great regard for you. * * We have read with very great pleasure, and I hope with improvement, your excellent sermon on the death of Mr. Cadogan. He was indeed a burning and a shining light. Hereafter I shall hope to peruse the life and some of the select works of our late very valuable friend, Mr. Venn. You will remember me very kindly to the two young men whom you have so generously received into your tuition, viz. Burnet and Hey. I shall be very glad to hear of their welfare and success. I think that your lectures to the young men may be eminently beneficial, and I hope that they feel and acknowledge the value of their privilege.”

The many excellent and warm friends, whom Mr. Simeon had attached to himself during his late tour through Scotland, began now to press him with earnest solicitations to repeat his visit to the North. Amongst the rest, not the least frequent and persuasive, were the requests of his beloved friend at Edinburgh, Mr. Buchanan. In a letter the next spring, he reminds him of the deep interest that had been excited on all sides by his preaching, and holds out a prospect of increased good from his return.

“You have very great encouragement indeed to come among us. You remember the crowds that followed you wherever you preached; and many, many are the inquiries that have been made about your return, by persons of all ranks. I have reason to think that you were the instrument of doing much good when you were here; and should it please.God to bring you among us again, I hope it will be with joy, and for a blessing to many.”

Early in the month of May, Mr. Simeon prepared to comply with the pressing requests of his Northern friends: and comnienced another diary; a few extracts from which will be sufficient to exhibit his feelings at this time, and to record the chief incidents of his tour.

“May, 7Ui. — Set out at half-past ten — frame comfortable — took leave of college as fiir the last time — went to Stukdy, met Mr. Ramaden, preached to a good congregation — ^foond my loul tolerably happy. At Raucehy we had a bleflsod day on the mdneaday, apeak-CBAP. VII.] 0BOOND JOURNBT TO SCOTLAND. 89

iDg an peraonal experience. Mr. Dikee preached in the evening. The next momiog I went to Newark, to Mr. Hoare’s, and proceeded early the next morning to York.

Saftoiday, 12th. — It waa a ddifbtful mornioff after a rainy niffht; I therefore went on the oatnde; and blessed be God, who overruled my mind to do so. The guard was a civil and intelligent man; I soon got into conversation with him upon the best tilings; he heard me wim attention and gratitude, and my own soul was much affected in speaking to him. I arrived at York at five, and then went to Mr. Overton’s. Mr. Richards<^n supped with us.

Sunday, l3th. — Preached at a small church for Mr. Overton; there were about 400 people, and Grod was remarkably present with us: many were in tears. In the afternoon at Mr. R.’s church (where about 1800). I had much less liberty; I was enabled however to deliver my message faithfully, and I hope not vdthout effect. In the evening. Mr. Richardson and Mr. Graham (a pious minister who has two churches in York) suppeu with OS.

Monday, 14th. — Set off for Newcastle, stayed two nights.

Wednesday, 16th. — By coach through Berwick to Dunbar.

Thursday, 17th. — To Haddington, where I spent a very affectionate and pleasant hour with Dr. Lorimer. Thence to Edinburgh, where I arrived safe and happy about five in the evening, May, 17th, 1798. Adored be my God who has once more brought me in safety to my dear friends! O that it my not be in vain! The Lord grant that I may both impart and receive good. i

Friday, l8th. — After a good night’s rest, I went with Mr. B. to St Andrew’s Church. From thence we went to the Assembly-house. The moderator prayed first, and after him three others; there being a little interval between each, devoted to business. Their prayers were almost as cold as the room itself: and on the whole I found nothing but the novelty to compensate for my time and trouble. The kind reception and hearty welcome I met with from Dr. Principal Hill, as well as innumerable religious friends, was very flattering. In the evening I preached in Mr. Dickson’s chapel to a tolerable congregartion, and had through mercy a comfortable opportunity.”

Here the diary terminates suddenly, and is not recommenced till June 20th, when the following entry is made: —

“Set off for Camock and Dumfermline: ordered a horse; but went in the coach on account of an appearance of rain. Was two hours going nme miles — crossed at Queen’s Ferry in about 20 minutes. All the chaises were gone out, and I had no alternative but. to walk, or ride a hack-horse. But my God most graciously provided for me contrary to all expectation. A lady who had heard me preach the preceding evening at Mr. Dick son’s, went with me in the coach, and accompanied me in the boat; and wnen she found the strait to which I was reduced, told me her carriage was coming, and that she would cany me to Dumfermline, notwithstanding it was much out of her way home. Her husband, Mr. Hanrower of Torrybum, came in the carriage; and they carried me through heavy showers of rain to Mr. McLean’s door; and understanding that I was to preach at Camock that evening, agreed to stay dinner and carry me thither. This thcv did, along the worst road I ever saw; and after staying the service went home by a roadf very considerably worse than that to G. Thus did G<S provide for me. Had I taken a hack on that road, I might very probably have broken my neck; at all events I must have been wet through twice; before dinner going to D., and after to C., and must almost inevitably have been lud up by a coldT BtuB the Lord, (fmy icid, and forget noi all his

The next entry occurs,

“July 9th. — Set off on my northern excursion with my dear friends.

lOtfa. — To Forgan Denny. I preached there. There I met dear Mr. Stewart of Moulin, who b much grown in grac, and who showed me some of his skeletons made after my plan.

11th. — To Perth — in the morning preached

12th. — To Dundee.

13th. — Montrose. Upon mention being made to Mr. Michdl of my willingness to pieach, it at first excited fear in his mind, and still more after he had consulted his colleagues. But at last he determined to bear any odium; and after consulting the chief i aoceded. Notice was given, and about 400 collected.

W BEOONQ JOUBNBT TO SCOTLAND. [cHAF. YU.

14th. — StonehaTen and Aberdeen. This day we had more of the piesence of our Ood than usual. O that we may have it abundantly increased to us!

17th. — We arrived at Mr. Rusflel’s of Aden to dinner. I preached at his chapel. These were about 400 present We had a soleom season. J preached on the Confession in order to strengthen his hands.

I8lh. — Banff.

I9tb. — Breakfasted at Sir George Abercrombie’s, and then went to Forslin, and dined with Lord Banff, who expected us. His lofUship was very courteous and pressed us to return that way.

20th. — To Elffin and Nairn; and Fort George, 31 st

Sunday, nd. — This was our second Sabmith. I preached to the garrison. There Were at least 600 present. There was great attention. Mr. Buchanan went and preached at the parish-church to about 2000 people. I sat in the inn, but did not improve mj time so well as I should have done. In the evening I preached again, many of the officers came again, and the congregation was rather larger than before.

24th. — To Taine. There, though late in the evening, we called on Mr. Mcintosh, a most

Sious and blessed minister, who received us all, notwithstanding he had a friend, Rev. Ir. McKay with him, and we had Mr. Calder with us. Never did I see a more affectionate man than he, or one who seems more likely to prove a blessing to his jieople. He informs me, that he has a meeting of ministers in his neighborhood eight limes in the year for conversation and prayer; that he has many praying societies among his people, and many people that are truly alive to Gkxl. He sent round the town in ttie mormng, and got me a congregation of about 250, to whom I preached with a sweet unction upon my soul.

25th. — To Dingwall.

26th. — I am to preach this evening at Mr. Calder’s brother’s of Femtosh. Never were there more kind and obliging people than BIr. and Mrs. 0. I preached to about 400 people, and again the next evening to above 300. We left them with much regret on Saturday.

28th. — To Inverness and Croy, and slept at the house of our kind companion Mr. Calder.

29th. — I preached for Mr. C. to about 1000 people. After the morning service at Croy I went to Inverness, where I preached in the evening to a very large congregation, ana had a blessed season. The Provost Inglis invited us to dine with him on the Monday. We had a large ccTipany at supper; but we passed a very pleasant evening. About 40 people came to the inn, ourselves included, and were present at family prayer.

30th. — To Fort Augustus. The minister is a missionary upon toe King’s bounty establishment. He is an amiable man, and cordially acquiesced in the idea of my preaching in his church the next mornmg, as did also the governor. The hour was fixed for 9: and the governor not only ordered the whole garrison to atiendf biU purely of his own mind ordered a drummer to go through the village trith a drum and give notice of the sermon; he himself with the other qfficers attended. 1 suppose there were at least 300: and God was peculiarly present with us.

3 1st. — To Fort William. Here a Mr. Orde, who is a schoolmaster, and who preaches at Fort William one Sunday in three, asked me to preach, which I did the next morning to about 300. He sent the crier round the town with a bell in the evening, and in the morning, and at the hour of service. I had not any comfort in the sermon, for I had no opportunity for retirement.

Aug. Ist. — Set off to see Glen Coej we did not choose to miss the sight. Indeed we were well repaid for our troubl, the entrance is wonderfully grand; and the remainder of what we saw was veiy fine.

2nd. — To Oban.

yd. — We hired a boat to carry us to AT08h,%nd set off at 6 o’clock with four men. We had a comfortable voyage, and arrived pretty expeditiously in five hours and a half. From thence we walked through a good deal of rain and wet ground to Loch Nagaul. There we found a boat belonging to a Mr. John Maclean, and after conversing with two men who lived at the head of the loch, and agreeing to give them whatever Mr. M. should judge fit, we went to Mr. M.’s exceedingly wet in our feet, but comforuble in other respects. We were kindly received: ami dinner being nearly ready we stayed. Afterwards he went with us to the boat; but lo! after four hours’ stay we found the boat not touched, nor any thing got ready. The two men behaved with the greatest sang-froid, and being dedrous to impose upon us in a very shameful manner, we dismissed them with indignation; and took only Mr. M.’s man and one of our own, whom we had taken with us tor our guide. The men evidently supposed we could not do without them; there being little or no wind; but Mr. B., Mr. Sl. and myself, determined to take

two Mrs, alternately relieving one: we however had acarcely proceeded fifty yards befbrn a breeie sprang up, and we sailed in three hours to Lagganulva, where we arrived at 9. Hie landlord, McKinnon, and another man, went with us next morning in our borrowed boat to Stafifa. We s off a Utile after five, and arrived hi two hours and three-quarters. The weather both thither and from thence was as favorable as could be conceived. My mind was somewhat occupied about my dear brother Thomason and my people, and our feUow-travelier whom we had left at Oban. Never was there a finer day, never a more prosperous voyage. We set off from Aroeh at 10 minutes past 4, and arriv at Oban at 25 minutes past 7. Mr. Stevenson and the other inhabitants of Oban had concluded that it was impracticable to vittit Staffa on account of the tempestuousness of the weather; and when they found us return, they concluded for certain that we had come back without making the attempt. When we assured them that we had been, and had spent two hours on the island, they were quite amazed, and declared that they never knew the voyage performed in so short a time before: so graciously did Grod deal with us! The wind invariably blew from the quarter that favored us, whether we sailed north or south, or west or east.

6th. — To Inverary by Loch Etive and Loch Awe.

7th. — To Arrochar. In this rogiantic itad, very little inferior to Glen Coe, we passed through Glen Croe. We did not go to the town, but called on the minister. We had a warm debate about justification by faith. I was enabled to speak as I would ever wish to speak on thai subject: I contended earnestly for the fidth, but I hope with love and moaesty.

8th. — :At Sir James Colquhoun*s. ’

9th. — In the evening I spoke to the family and many of the neighbors, and had a good season; but the servants never, either at morning or evening prayers, enter into the parlor. This I hope will one day be altered.

lOth. — To Dumbarton and Gl&sgow.

17th. — About 8 in the evening we reached Edinburgh, having experienced nothing but love and mercy during our long absence from it. We called on Dr. Hunter almost immediately, and had a confirmation of what we had before heard by report, — the strenuous opposition of the mocUraU party to my preaching. They had called on all who had employed me, and complained to them as offending against the laws of the Church. They had called on Mr. B. just before our departure; but none of the offenders judged they bad transgressed any law; and Dr. H. in particular answered them with ereaX wudom and firmness. He told them that there were other violations of their laws, (viz., the attending of plays and thn neglecting of parochial visitations,) which needed more to be inquired into, and which would be inquired into, if any inquiries relative to the other matter were instituted. But, though this idea will probably stop them from criminating individuals, they will most likely bring in an overture in May nexty to prevent any from qicialinin their (^ur<^u8 voho are not in a capacity to receive a preeenUUion in their church. This will effectually cut off all intercourse between the English ministers and the Presbyterian congregations. But God rcignetb, and will support his own cause.

19th, Sunday. — Heard Mr. Dickson in his own chapel. Preached in the afternoon for Mr. B. and in the evening at Leith. Eight ladies had engaged in a society for visiting and relieving the sick. God had already given them much encouragement.

21st. — -Preached in the evening, to a large and attentive congregation, my fiewell sermon.

23rd. — Engaged a gentleman, a Mr. Rutherford of Glasgow, to take a chaise with me to Carlisle, rfe set out at 6 in the evening. The sepajpUon from my dear friends was very affecting to us all. It was a sweet season; and I trust our hearts will be comforted with the remembrance of it After dinner our prayer was interrupted by weeping, and we concluded it with siqging. Before tea we had another prayer.

Cariisle, Aug. 25th. — Visited Mrs. Gilpin, and had a sweet season in expounding John vi. about mid-day. Went in the afternoon to Scaleby Castle. Mr. and Miss Fawcett received me very kindly, and returned with me in my chaise to Carlisle.

2Gth. — Preached tvrice, and had tolerably comforUble seasons. In the evening I spoke at Mrs. Gilpin’s; we had a blessed season on Luke xi. 21, 22. Old Mrs. G. was much affected anu my soul was much knit to her.

28th. — Mrs. G., notwithstanding she is 90 years qf age came to bredcfast with me ail odock in the morning: this was a sweet mark of the love and zeal with which her sool was filled. Arrived at 9 in the evening at Lancaster. Mr. and Mrs. Housman weire well, and showed me much kindness.”

After one or’ two more brief entries, the Journal terminates.

02 REMARKS ON THE DOCTRINE OF PBRPBCTION. [OHAP. YII.

In alluding to these tours in his memoir, Mr. Simeon remarks; — “* Amqpgst the many blessings which God vouchsafed to me in those journeys, there were two in particular, for which I have reason to adore his name.” (The first of these was the event at Moulin, already noticed at page 72.)

Another occasion was at Leith, near Edinburgh. I had in my way to Scotland set on foot a Female Society for- visiting and relieving the sick; and I thought God might render me useful in the same way at Leith. I suggested the idea to Mr. Colquhoun, the minister, who highly approved of it; and being to preach that evening, I stated briefly and generally my views to the congregation, and promised, on my return from a little exercise for a fortnight or three weeks, to preach a sermon to them on the occasion; but on my return I had the happiness to find a society established upon my plan, and a large sum of money raised to carry it on; so that instead of having occasion to beg for subscriptions, as I intended, I had only to return thanks for the activity shown, and the sums already subscribed; and I believe the society flourishes to this very day. O! that every journey I may in future take may abound with such instances of God’s kindness towards me, and be so sanctified to the ^ood of my fellow-creatures!

In my retura through Carlisle I had another opportunity of serving God, and I trust, of benefiting my fellow-creatures. The church of my dear and honored friend, Mr. John Fawcelt, was at that time very much distracted by the Methodists, I mean, by the followers of Mr. Wesley, who adopt that name. Of that body there are many thousands, I doubt not, who are truly and eminently pious; but there are also many who are lamentably enthusiastic and deluded. The doctrine of sinless perfection is not only espoused by many of them, but maintained as actually existing in tneir own experience. Of his hearers there were some of this cast, who being really pious themselves and very active in doing good, had great sway among the people, and were making proselytes to their opinions.

I happened one afternoon to meet a large party of the principal promoters of these sentiments; and I directed my conversation to the subject, showing wtiat I conceived to be the evil with which these sentiments were pregnant.

1. They lead persons to look for perfection in themselves, instead of searching out their imperfections.

2. They lead persons to wink hard at their own imperfections, and even their sins, and to call them only temptations, which they consider as no sins.

3. They fill with undue self-complacency those who fancy that they have attained perfection.

4. They pre viBnt those persons from humbling themselves in prayer before God as they ought, and lead them to abound rather in Pharisaical thanksgivmgs; “I thank thee,” &c.

CHAF. VH.] SBMINISCSNCBS OF HIS PREACHING AT EDINBURGH. 98

5. They discourage exceedingly those who cannot find in themselves such attainments.

6. They generate the wildest notions imaginable, namely, that men are perfected at this or that instant; when the whole Scripture speaks of sanctification as gradual and progressive.

On such topics as these I insisted at lafge; and it pleased God so to bless the conversation, that every person in the company was brought to see the erroneousness of the sentiments, which he had begun to adopt; and from that time the minds of many individuals, who had been grievously perplexed, were composed; and union pervaded the whole Church, which was just on the eve of being rent in sunder by divisions. It happened, unfortunately, that the person, who had first introduced these sentiments, was absent; and it is to be feared continued still to hold them; but no further inroad was made by them, nor has been made ever since.”

The Rev. Dr. Buchanan to Mr. Simeon.

“Sept. 3, 1798.

“I entreat you will take the first leisure moment you can spare to let us know how you got home; for, to say nothing of our own concern about you, until I am able to announce your safe arrival at Cambridge, Mrs. Buchanan and I shall have no rest from your numerous friends. I do not imagine that any stranger ever carried with him from Edinburgh so lare a share of the good people’s affection. I rejoice in it greatly, because it is a regard founded on the love of that precious Gospel, which you are honored to preach with such ability and acceptance. I have already had some calls from persons to whom your laborS were blessed; and I doubt not I shall yet have more. When I reflect on all the circumstances attending your visit to Scotland, 1 cannot but see the hand of God in it, and I believe it has been graciously ordered for the good of many. To my own soul it has been peculiarly refreshing.”

“His visits to Edinburgh,” observes a friend in a letter to Mr. Preston, were always felt as a refreshment, and useful stimulus, by the good people there. The doctrine he preached and expounded to them was the same: but the manner and the illustrations, and the cal and fervor of his ministrations, both in public and in private, were very difierent; and were calculated to pro- duce, and did produce, a great efiect. I remember well his preaching a most striking sermon on ministerial duties and faithfulness: in which he introduced, with a view to illustration, the keeper of the light-house on Inch-keith, the island situate in the middle of the Firth of Forth, between Mid-Lothian and Fife. He supposed the keeper to have let the light go out, and that in consequence.

04 BEMINISCENCES OF HIS PREACHING AT EDINBURGH. [cHAP. YII.

the coast was strewed with wrecks, and with dead and mangled bodies; and that the wailings of widows and orphans were everywhere heard. He supposed the delinquent brought out for examination before a full court and an assembled people; and at last the answer to be given by him, that he was * asleep!’ — Asleep P The way in which he made this * asleep!’ burst on the ears of his audience, who were hanging in perfect stillness on his lips, contrasting the cause with the effects, I remember to this day. I remember on another occasion, in Edinburgh, after having finished an impressive discourse, his standing up in full size and with impassioned gesture, and stopping a merry jig which was commencing’ from the organ.”

The fears which Mr. Simeon expressed in his diary, respecting an attempt to ‘prevent .any from’ officiating in the (Scotch) churches, who were not in a capacity to receive a presentation in that Church,’ appear to have been but too well founded.

Dr. Buchanan writes: —

“Dec. 28, 1798.

You have heard, I find, of what was done at our last synod. Since you left us, all the fierceness of moderation has been excited by what is going on at the circus.... Accordingly, at the next synod they resolved on an overture to the next Assembly, by which it is proposed that no preacher, who is not a licentiate, and no minister, who has not been ordained- by some Presbytery of this Church, shall ever be employed in any of our

Eulpits under severe penalties. Your friends, Drs. Hunter, Kemp, Davidson, and I, opposed it all in our power; but it was carried by a considerable majority.... Not only your particulsu” friends, but all the serious people here are grieved and offended at it; and should it pass into a law, as there is reason to fear it will, it will sour the minds of many worthy people against our Establishment.”

The unusual earnestness and fervor of Mr. Simeon’s manner in all his addresses, whether in public or in private, liable as it was to be misapprehended by stangers, was now thoroughly understood and appreciated by his friends. His evident sincerity, his unwearied and disinterested exertions, and entire consistency of character, had won for him the devoted attachment of those who had the opportunity of most intimately observing him. Prejudices began to yield to sentiments of respect, and even of admiration, in the minds of many, who had at one time regarded him with doubt, if not with dislike. Thus his early friend and school- fellow, Mr. Michell, writes respecting the change in his own views, and more particularly in those of Dean M ilner: — During the year 1795 to 1800 I was in college, (King’s.) My very frequent intercourse with him daily increased my admiration of his character, and my desire to render him any assistance, by every

public and private cflbrt within my power. During n)y proctorship with Mr. Vicars of Trinity Hall, we zealously united in defending him from those insults, which he occasionally experienced in his church, on the Sunday evenings and his weekly lectures. Dr. Milner’s sentiments respecting him were a memorable instance of the dean’s Christian candor and judgment. In the presence of Dr. Jowett and myself, he more than once declared, that he had rigorously for some years scrutinized the character and conduct of Mr. Simeon, and for a time entertained some doubts of his sincerity; but was now perfectly convinced of his truly Christian spirit and usefulness, and of his unreserved devotedness to the glory of God.**

The favor Mr. Simeon had enjoyed in his northern tours, and the deep interest he had begun to feel for his many friends there, so far from lessening his regards for his own flock, or impairing his energies at Cambridge, appear only to have prepared him for more vigorous and self-denying exertions. Such was his devotion to his work, that he could scarcely find time for the common enjoyments, or even the ordinary courtesies of life.

To Mr. Edwards he writes: —

“Oct 24, 1798.

The only excuse I can make for my neglect is, that my attention to my work is so unintermitted as to leave me no time to see a friend, to write a letter, to go into chapel twice a week as dean, or scarcely to eat my dinner. I scarcely ever go to hall, and I intend to give up my office, and take a bursarship instead. You will say, I overdo the matter, and shall hurt my health. — I answer, I trust not; because I make a point of riding every day, unless my work or the weather render it particularly inconvenient. Blessed be God, my work is my meat and drink: I only want more spirituality in it. If this excuse will not do, I can only say, — You have neighbor’s fare; for I have not yet answered any of the letters that arrived while I was in Scotland; so that if you do not pardon me, I know not what I must expect from others.

“Marvellous news have I to tell you of the goodness of God. Pride and vanity and unbelief would have been ready to suggest, (but thanks be to God who did not permit me to listen to them,) that if I went away for four months, the work would be at a stand at home. Behold! since my return, no less than nineteen persons have applied to me to be received into my societies, of whom I had no knowledge at all, (except in one or two cases,) when I went away; and what is wonderfully gracious, there is not one of them that owed his first impressions to my ministry; and but one to the ministry of Mr. Thomason. All were’ awakened either gradually and insensibly by God himself, or by conversaticm with one or other of my people. Tell me, does not this say

96 PLAN FOR MIflSIONB. [cHAP. VII.

aloud in our ears, that if we will endeavor to move in God*s way and do his work, He will take care of our concerns? Sol construe it; and the veAedtibn affords me infinitely more consolation than if I had been instrumental to their conversion. Let us bless our God and labor for him more and more.**

The great subject of Missions to the Heathen, which had so long engaged Mr. Simeon’s earnest attention, and for which he had labored to enlist the zeal of his friends, was at length to receive the consideration due to its importance. Measures began to be proposed for forming a missionary society ’ in direct connection with and under the sanction of the Church ’ of England.* Certain resolutions of a practical character were suggested by Mr. Venn, to be considered in detail at the Eclectic; and as the subject had originally been discussed at Mr. Simeon’s desire, * the society felt the propriety of inviting him’ to assist at their next meeting.* Accordingly Mr. Venn undertook to write to him, and requested his attendance on the occasion.

“My dear Friend, —

“Feb. 22, 1799.

Mr. Bum of Birmingham has been applied to by the (London) Missionary Society, to preach the anniversary sermon. Demurring on account of the little countenance given to them by their evangelical brethren in the Establishment, he wished to know the reason why the Eclectic Society in particular did not unite with them. This wish was stated to the society, and brought on a long and interesting conversation at our last meeting, respecting the nature of missions. Two points were unanimously assented to; one, that the (London) Missionary Society was not formed upon those principles, which were either calculated to produce success, or to justify our publicly uniting with them: the other, that it was the indispensable duty of every minister of the Church in general, and of ourselves in particular, to promote by all the means in our powers the propagation of the Gospel abroad. We inquired in some degree into the possibility of our doing this, without being irregular, and it was thought that it might be done, without infringing upon the order of the Establishment in any material point. The subject was however thought so important, that it was determined to appropriate another afternoon to its consideration, although it wholly engrossed our last. Accordingly, Monday se’nnight was fixed for the discussion of this question: — * By what methods may we most eflfectually contribute to the propagation of the Gospel amongst the heathen.* On that day I am to move three resolutions, to be entered upon the society’s book, which were partly considered at our last meeting: The first, expressing it to be the duty of each member of the society to pray daily for a proper spirit to feel the deplorable state oi the heathen, and for direction and

grace to endeavor to promote their conversioiL This also to bo one subject in the prayer made at the Eclectic The second proposes, that we should each write to four or five of our intiro’ato friends, and engage them to unite with us both in prayer, and also in looking around to discover either a minister or a layman, who appears to be influenced by a true missionary spirit, and who is properly qualified and willing to ofier himself to the service of Christ. ‘The third, that we might each bear in our mind the great work of promoting a mission, and revolve the various plans for best carrying it into execution, as also determine in what country it may be best set on foot. You will see that the object of these resolutions is to set on foot an inquiry, and to direct our attention and those of our friends to the subject .... It is not proposed that the Eclectic Society should do more than be the father of such a plan; nor that any funds should be raised till proper men are found, for whom we must earnestly pray; knowing that the Spirit of God must in all these cases leaa, and that our kuisness will be only to give temporal assistance and advice to those whom He has appeared to set apart for the work. Recollecting that we once before, at your desire discussed a similar question, the society felt the propriety of inviting you to assist at our next meeting, and I undertook to write to you upon that head.”

This meeting was held March 18th. ‘’Fourteen members were present Mr. Venn opened the discussion, by insisting upon the duty of doing something for the conversion of the heathen. Mr. Uharles Grant urged 4he founding of a missionary seminary. The Rev. Josiah rratt advocated the adoption of ttie resolution, as ’ breathing a quiet, humble, dependent spirit.’ The Rev. Charles Simeon, with characteristic distinctness of purpose and promptitude of zeal, proposed three Questions: — What

can vie do 7 — When shall we do it 7 — How shall we do it 7

What can we do 7 We cannot join the (London) Missionary Society; yet I bless God that they have stood forth. We must now stand forth. We require something more than resolutions — something ostensible — something held up to the public. Many draw back because we do not stand forward. — Wnen shall we do it 7 Directly: not a moment to be lost We have been dreaming these four years, while all England, all Europe, has been awake. — How shall we do it 7 It is hopeless to wait for missionaries. Spud out catechists. Plan two years ago. Mr. Wilberforce.’ The result of this meeting was a general consent that a society should be forthwith formed, by inviting a few of those upon whose concurrence in their own views they could rely; and that a Prospectus of their proceedings should be afterwards prepared, and that then their plans should be laid before the heads of the Church. The next meeting of the Eclectic was devoted to the same subject, and the rules of the proposed society

98 FORMATION OF THB BOCIBTT. [cHAF. Til.

were considered and settled. On the 12th of April a meeting was held at die Castle-and-Falcon Inn, Aldersate street, *Fhr the

Srpose of Instituting a Society amongst the Members of the iablished Church for sending Missionaries among the Heathen.* The Rev. J. Venn was in the chair, and detailed the objects of the meeting.”* Sixteen clergymen and nine laymen were all that composed that small assembly; but the blessing of Grod was manifestly with them in their ’ work of faith and labor of love.’ * The Society for Missions to Africa and the East,’ then formally established, grew and advanced like- the grain of mustard-seed; and in less than half a century it has carried the kpowledge of ’ the unsearchable riches of Christ’ to Western Africa and New Zealand — to India, north and south — to Ceylon and Bombay — to the West Indies — -to the shores of the Mediterranean-^to the wild Indian in North-west America; — and, at length, has extended its holy efforts to the vast field opened to us amonff the countless multitudes of China. May the Spirit of the Lord Jesus Christ rest abundantly upon all who are #Dnnected with this and kindred institutions; and may the lanage of their prayers ever be, ‘Grod be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us, that thy way may be known upon eardit thy saving health among all nations I’

See Appendix to Rev. H. Venn’i Sennon.