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by Richard Baxter

Preface

By the Compiler of This Abridgment

In the following pages the reader will find none of the triumphs peculiar to martyrdom, nor any of those ecstasies which have distinguished some particular Christians on* their dying beds. Some extraordinary cases rather excite our joyful surprise, than are patterns for our imitation.

The “Dying Thoughts” of Mr. Baxter chiefly present to our view what every Christian may attain, and what it is the highest* interest as well as the indispensable duty of every Christian to aspire after. See here his doubts and fears in the prospect of eternity; though he had spent a long life in exemplary holines.s, and in great nearness to God and heaven. See his jealousies over his own heart, and anxious concern to discover his sincerity; together with his sober appeals and earnest attention to every dictate of reason and Scrip?

ture, in order to establish his mind and conscience in a well-grounded peace. See, also, his unwearied striving with God and his own soul to have his grace in vigorous exercise. All these are well-known ingredients of the Christian temper; and therefore tend, not to perplex and discourage, but to counsel, strengthen, and comfort serious readers, while they discern, in one of Mr. Baxter’s exalted attainments, the same conflicts, complaints, and desires, wrhich fill their own breasts.

It is observed of Lord William Russell, who died a martyr for the liberty of his country, that a little before his death, by a trusty messenger, he sent Mr. Baxter his hearty thanks for his Dying Thoughts, “which,” says he, 4 * have made me better acquainted with the other world than I was before; and have not a little contributed to my support and relief, and to the fitting me for what I am to go through.”

Though the Dying Thoughts were written about forty years after the Saints’ Rest, yet both are evidently built on the same principles, and are animated by the same spirit. And let it suffice to add, that the abridgment of both is conducted in the same manner.

B. fawcEtt.

DYING THOUGHTS.

FOR I AM IN A STRAIT BETWIXT TWO, HAY-ING- A DESIRE TO DEPART AND TO BE WITH CHRIST, WHICH IS FAR BETTER. Phil. 1:23.

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