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Lemuel Haynes, The Character and Work of a Spiritual Watchman (1791), Part 5

04 Sunday Dec 2016

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(The final portion of the sermon)

A FEW PARTICULAR ADDRESSES

First, to him who is about to set apart to the work of Gospel Ministry in this place

Dear Sir,

From the preceding observations, you will easily see that the work before you is great and solemn: and I hope this is a lesson you have been taught otherwise: the former acquaintance I have had with you gives me reason to hope that this is the case. You about to have these souls committed to your care; you are to be placed as a watchman upon the walls of this part of Zion. I doubt not but that it is with trembling you enter upon this work. The relation that this day’s business has with a judgment to come renders the scene affecting. Your mind I trust has already anticipated the solemn moment when you must meet these people before the bar of God. The good profession you are this state to make is before many witnesses; saints and wicked men are beholding; the angels are looking down upon us; above all the great God with complacency or disapprobation beholds the transactions of this day: he sees what motives govern you, and he will proclaim it before the assembled universe. Oh! solemn and affecting thought! The work before you is great and requires great searching of heart, great self-diffidence, and self abasement. How necessary that you feel your dependence upon God: you cannot perform any part of your work without his help; under a sense of your weakness, repair to him for help. Would you be a successful minister, you must be a praying dependent one; do all in the name and strength of the Lord Jesus. Would you be faithful in watching for the souls of men, you must be much and watching your own heart. If you are careless with respect to your own soul, you will be also with respect to others. Although the work is too great for you, yet let such considerations as these revive your desponding heart. That the cause is good, better than life, you may well give up all for it. ’Tis the cause of God, and that which will prove victorious in spite of all opposition from men or devils –that God has promised to be with his ministers to the end of the world–that the work is delightful; Paul somewhere blesses God for putting him into the work of the ministry –the campaign is short, your warfare will soon be accomplished– That the reward is great, being found faithful, you will receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

Secondly, We have a word to the church and congregation in this place.

My Brethren and Friends,

The importance of the work of a gospel minister suggests the weighty concerns of your souls. As ministers must give account how they preach and behave; so hearers also are to be examined how they hear and improve. You are to hear with the view to the day of judgment, always remembering that there is no sermon or opportunity that you have in this life to repair for another world that shall go unnoticed at that decisive court. Your present exercises with respect to the solemn affairs of this day will then come up to public view.

God we trust is this day sending one to watch for your souls: should not this excite sentiments of gratitude in your breasts? Shall God makes so much care for your souls and you neglect them? How unreasonable will it be for you to despise the pious instruction of your watchmen? You will herein wrong your own souls and it will be an evidence that you love death. You will bear with him in not accommodating his sermons to your vitiated tastes because he must give account. His work is great and you must pray for him; as in the verse following the text the apostle says, “Brethren pray for us.”

Is it the business of your minister to watch for your souls with such indefatigable assiduity, you easily see how necessary it is that you do what you can to strengthen him in this work. That you minister to his temporal wants, that he may give himself wholly to these things. The great backwardness among people in general with respect to this matter at present is an unfavorable aspect. “Who goeth to warfare anytime at his own charges? Who planteth a vineyard and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or feedeth a flock and earth not of the milk of the flock?” 1 Cor. ix. 7.

Doubtless this man is sent here for the rise and fall of many in this place. We hope we will be used as a means of leading some to Christ; while on the other hand, we even tremble at the thought, he may fit others for more aggravated condemnation. Take heed how you hear.

A few words to the assembly in general to close the subject.

What has been said about the character and work of gospel ministers shows us at once it is a matter in which we are all deeply interested. The greater part of the people present, I expect to see you no more until I meet them at that day, which has been the main subject of the foregoing discourse. With respect to the character of the people present, we can say little about them; only this we may observe, they are all dying creatures, hastening to the grave and to judgment: there must we meet you–there an account of this day’s work will come up to view–there each one must give an account concerning the right discharge of the work assigned him: the preacher must give an account, and you that hear also.

Let me say to such as our yet in their sins and proclaim it from this part of the wall of Zion, that the enemy of your souls is at hand– that destruction awaits you. Oh! flee! flee! to Christ Jesus: bow to his sovereignty; Know this, but except you were born again and become new creatures in the dispositions of your mind, you cannot be saved. Shall ministers watch and pray for your souls night and day and you pay no attention to them; since they are so valuable, having such a relation to God, did men regard divine glory they would regard their souls as being designed to exhibit it.

Be instructed then, to delay no longer, but by repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ make peace with him before you were summoned before his awful bar. Let me bear testimony against your practice too common on such occasions as this: many people think it is time for carnal mirth and dissipation, that which nothing can be more provoking to God nor incommensurate with that day and strict account that such an occasion tends to exciting the mind. May all, both ministers and people, be exhorted to diligence in their work, that finally we me adopt the language of the Blessed apostle, “As also ye have acknowledged us in part that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus.”

AMEN

Lemuel Haynes, The Character and Work of a Spiritual Watchman (1791), Part 4

01 Thursday Dec 2016

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IV. We are to Inquire What Influence such Considerations will have on the True Ministers of Christ; or when They may be said to Preach and Act as Those who must Give Account.

1. Who properly expect to give a account, will be very careful to examine themselves with respect to the motives by which they are influenced to undertake this work. He will view himself in the presence of a heart searching God, requires truth in the inward parts, and will shortly call him to an account for all the exercises of his heart. He will search every corner of his soul, whether the divine honor, or something else, is the object of his pursuit. He has been taught, by the rectitude of divine law, the God will not pass by transgression, but will judge the secrets of men. The work will appear so great, the the nature recoil at the thought, like Jeremiah, “Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak, for I am a child.” Or with the great apostle, “Who is sufficient for these things?” The true disciple of Jesus will not thrust himself forward in the ministry, like a heedless usurper; but with the greatest caution and self diffidence.

2. A faithful watchmen will manifest that he expects to give an account by being very careful to know his duty, and we’ll take all proper ways which are in his power to become acquainted with it. He will study, as the apostle directs Timothy, to show himself approved onto God. He will give attention to reading, meditation and prayer; and will often call and divine aid on account of his own insufficiency. As a faithful soldier we’ll be careful to understand his duty: so the spiritual watchmen would here closely to the word of God for his guide and directory.

3. I minister that watches for souls as one who expects to give an account, we’ll have none to please but God. When he studies his sermons, this will not be his inquiry, “How shall I form my discourse so as to pleasing gratified to humors of men and get their applause?” But, “How show I preach so is to do honor to God, and meet with the approbation of my judge?” This will be his daily request at the throne of grace. This will be 10,000 times better to him than the pain flattery of men. His discourses will not be circulated to gratify the carnal heart, but he will not Shawn just clear the whole counsel of God.

The solemn account that the minister expects to give on another day we’ll direct him in the choice of this subject; he would dwell upon those things which have more direct relation to the eternal world. He will not entertain his audience with empty speculations or vein philosophies; but with things that concern their everlasting welfare. Jesus Christ and him crucified we’ll be the great topic and darling theme of his preaching. If he needs to save souls, like a skillful physician, he will endeavor to lead his patients into a view of their maladies and then point them to a bleeding Savior as the only way of recovery. The faithful watchmen will give the alarm at the approach of the enemy, and will blow the trumpet in the ears of the sleeping sinner and endeavor to awaken him.

4. The pious preacher will endeavor to adapt is discourses to the understanding of his hearers. “He will not be ambitious as saying find things to when applause, it is saying useful things to win souls.” He will consider that he has the week as well as the strong, children as well as adults to speak to, and that he must be accountable for the blood of their souls if they perish through his neglect. This will influence him to study plainness more than politeness; also he will labor to accommodate his sermons to the different states or circumstances of his hearers; he will left comforting and encouraging lessons to see before the children of God; while the terrors of the law are to be proclaimed in the ears of the impenitent. He will strive to preach distinguishing that every here are may have his portion.

The awful scenes of approaching judgment, will have an influence upon the Christian preacher with respect to the manner in which he will deliver himself. He will guard against that low and vulgar style that tends to degrade religion; but ‘s language will in some measure correspond with those very solemn and affecting things that do engage his heart and tongue. He will not substitute a whining tone in the room of the sermon; which, to speak no worse of it, is a sort of satire upon the gospel, tending greatly to deprecate it solemnity and importance, and to bring it into contempt; but the judgment what appear so awful and his attention so captivated with it I his accents will be the result of a mind honestly and engagingly taking up with a subject vastly important.

“Such a preacher will not come into the pulpit as an actor comes upon the stage to perform a feigned character and forget his real one; to sentiments or represent passion to his own.” [Fordyce] it is not to display his talents, but like one who feels the weight of eternal things, he will not address his hearers as though judgment was a mere empty sound; but viewing eternity just before them, any congregation up on the frontiers of it, this whole eternal state depends upon a few uncertain moments; Oh! With what zeal and fervor will he speak! How will death, judgment, and eternity appear as it were in every feature and every word! Out of the abundance of his heart his mouth will speak. His hearers will easily perceive but the preacher is one who expects to give account. He will study and preach with reference to a judgment to come, and deliver every sermon in some respect as if it were his last, not knowing when his lord will call him or his hearers to account.

We are not suppose that his zeal Will vented self and the frightful bellowings of enthusiasm; Buddy will speak forth the words of truth and soberness, Wwith modesty, and with Christian decency.

5 Those who watch for salsas those who expect to give an account, one ever to know as much as may be the state of the souls committed to their charge, that they may be in a better capacity to do them good. They will point out those errors and dangers which they may see approaching; and when they see souls taken by the enemy, they will exert themselves to deliver them from the snare of the devil. The onward department of the faithful minister will correspond with his preaching: he will reprove, rebuke, warning his people from house to house. The weighty affairs of another world will direct his daily walk and conversation and and all places and on every occasion.

Lemuel Haynes, The Character and Work of a Spiritual Watchman Described (1791) Part 3

26 Saturday Nov 2016

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III. To show, That Ministers Must Give Account to God of their Conduct, more Especially as it Respects the People of their Charge.

This solemn consideration as suggested in the text: just the design of preaching to make things ready for the Day of Judgment. 2 Corinthians ii. 16. To the one we are the savor of dafont to death; and to the other the saver of life onto life: we are fitting man for the masters use– preparing affairs for that decisive court. This supposes that things must be laid open before the great assembly at the Day of Judgment; or, why is it that there are so many things that related thereto and our preferences therefor.

The work of a gospel minister has a peculiar relation to futurity: An approaching judgment is that too which every subject is pointing and which renders every sentiment to be inculcated, Vastly solemn, and interesting. Ministers are accountable creatures in common with other men; and we have the on airing testimony of scripture that God sure bring every working to judgment with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil. Ecclesiastes xii. 14. If there is none of our conduct too minute to be cognizable, we may well conclude that such important affairs that relate to the working office of gospel ministers will not pass unnoticed.

Arguments maybe taken from the names given to the ministers of Christ, that they must give account. They are soldiers, ambassadors, servants, stewards, angels, and et cetera. that they are sent of God and are amenable to him that sent them; as a servant or stewart count to his Lord and Master with respect to his faithfulness in the trust reposted in him. God tells Ezekiel, If Watchmen or not faithful and souls Parish through their neglect, then he will require their blood at the hands of such careless watchmen. It is evident that primitive ministers were influenced a faithfulness from a view of the solemn account they expected to give it the Day of Judgment. This gave rise to those words, Acts iv. 19, “But Peter and John answered and said onto them, whether it be right in the sight of God to harken onto you more then onto God, judge ye.” If God’s omniscience is emotive to faithfulness, it must be in this view that he will not let our conduct passed unnoticed, but call list to an account.

It was approaching judgment that engrossed the attention of St. Paul and made him exhort Timothy to study to approve himself onto God. This made the beloved disciple speak of having boldness and the Day of Judgment. 1 John iv. 17.

The divine glory is an object only worthy of attention; any displays holy character was the design of God and creation; as there was his other beings existing antecedent thereto, to attract the mind of Jehovah; and we are sure that God is pursuing the same things still, And always will. Cues of one mind and who can turn him? Job xxiii. 13. There is no conceivable objects that bears any proportion with the glory of God; and for him ever to aim at anything else, would be incompatible with his perfections. The Day of Judgment is designed to be a comment on all other days; At which time God’s government of the world, and their conduct towards him, will be publicly investigated, that the equity of divine administration may appear conspicuous before the assembled universe. It is called a day on which the Son of Man is revealed. Luke xvii. 30. The honor of God requires that matters be publicly and particularly attended two; that evidences are summoned at this open court: hence the saints are to judge the world. 1 Corinthians vi. 2.

It will conducive to the mutual happiness of faithful ministers and people, to have matter late open before the bar of God, as in the words following our tax, but they may do it with joy and not with grief. The apostle speaks of some ministers and people who should have reciprocal Joy in the day of the Lord Jesus–which supposes that ministers and the people in their charge are to meet another day as having something special with each other. The connection between ministers and people is such as renders them capable of saying much for or against the people of their charge; and if here is making the same observations with respect to their teachers; and in this way the mercy and justice of God will appear illustrious.

Since therefore, it Work of gospel ministers has such a new relation to Judgment Day; since they are accountable creatures, and their work so momentous; since it is a sentiment that is had so powerful and influence all true ministers and all ages of the world: also there connection is such as to render them capable of saying many things relating to the people of their charge. Above all, since it displays a divine glory are so highly concerned in this matter; we may without hesitation adopt the idea in the text, that ministers have a solemn account to give to their great Lord and Master how they discharge the trust reposed in them.

Lemuel Haynes, The Character and Work of a Spiritual Watchman Described (1791), Part 2

26 Saturday Nov 2016

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II. Let Us Say Something with Respect to the Character of the Spiritual Watchman.

Natural endowments embellished with a good education are qualifications obviously requisite for an evangelical minister; that it is needless that we insist upon them at the same time and that the interest of religion has and still continues greatly to suffer for the want them is equally notorious.

Nearly ages of Christianity, men were miraculously qualified and calls into the work of gospel ministry; but we are far from believing that this is the present mode by which ordinary ministers are introduced.

1. It is necessary that those who hands are blessed Lord, buy those repeated interrogations to Simon whether he loved him, has set before us the importance of this qualification in a spiritual shepherd. The sad consequences of admitting those into the army who are in heart enemies of the Commonwealth have often taught men to be careful in this particular.

The trust reposed in the watchmen’s such as renders him capable of great detriment to the community. He that undertakes in this work from secular motives will meet with disappointment. What a gross absurdity as this for a man to command religion to others while he is a stranger to himself!

“The pious preacher will commend the savior from the personal fund of his own experience.” Being smitten with the love of Christ himself with zeal and fervor will he speak of the divine glory! Love to Christ will tend to make a minister faithful and successful. The importance of this point urges me to be copious on the subject were it not too biomes to require a long discussion.

2. Wisdom and prudence are important qualifications in minsters: hence that injunction the great preacher. Matthew x. 16. Be you therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves. He is a man of spiritual understanding whose soul is irradiated with the beams of the Son or Righteousness — has received an unction form the holy one — is taught by the Word and Spirit, walks in the light of God’s countenance He has seen the deceit of his own heart — knows the intrigues of the enemy, — sees the many snares to which the souls of men are exposed, — and not being ignorant of the devices of Satan, he will endeavor to carry to spiritual campaign with that care and prudence that he shall not get advantage. He knows that he has a subtle enemy to oppose and human nature, replete with enmity against the gospel; and will endeavor in every effort to conduct with that wisdom and circumspection as shall appear most likely to prove successful.

3. Patience is another qualification very necessary in a spiritual watchman. His breast being inspired with love to the cause, he will stand the storms of temptations; will not be disheartened by all the fatigues, and sufferings to which his work exposes him; but will endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

4. Courage and constitute a part of the character of a gospel minister. A sentinel who is worthy of that station we’ll not fear the formidable appearance of the enemy nor tremble at their menaces. None of these things remove him, Neither will he count his life dear to him to defend a cause so very important. He has the spirit of the intrepid Nehemiah, “Should such a man as I flee?” He stands fast in the face; quits himself like a man, and is strong.

5. Nor let us we forget to mention vigilance or close attention to the businesses signed him, as an essential qualification in a minister of Christ. A man does not answer the idea of a watchmen unless his mind is engaged in the business. The Word, which we have rendered watch, in the text, signifies, in the original, too awake, and abstain from sleeping. Indeed all the purposes of the watch set upon the wall are frustrated if he sleeps on guard; there by himself and the whole army are liable to falling easy prey to the cruel depredations of the enemy. The spiritual watchmen is not to sleep, But to watch the first motion of the enemy and give the alarm: last souls Parish through his drowsiness and inattention.

 

The Important Concerns of Ministers, Part 3

24 Thursday Nov 2016

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IMPROVEMENT

1. We may infer from the subject, that the gospel ministry is of God, and that we are to seek its welfare, and use suitable exertion support support.

The scripture and reason dictate that it is of so much importance, especially as it relates to a Judgment Day, we may conclude that God would not do without it, and we may see divine wisdom and goodness in the institution. Nothing more conducive of divine glory, and salutary to men, the preaching of the gospel.—Without these glad tidings proclaimed, the Incarnation of Christ is vain.

Nothing but opposition to God, and disregard to his glory, will make them indifferent to the preaching of the gospel. Rejection of Christ and his ministers, have commonly vice and open profanity, for their inseparable companions. The opposition that the impenitent part of mankind have made to the servants of Christ has doubt listen some measure had its rise from a consciousness that they must meet them at the bar of Christ to their disadvantage.

We may conclude that since the gospel ministry is so very useful, that will be continued to the end of the world.

2. When a faithful minister is taken away it ought seriously to be regarded. But few ways perhaps that God shows greater displeasure against people than in calling his ambassadors home. By this he threatens to put an end to his treaty of peace and become irreconcilable. It may sometimes be the case that God has no more chosen or elect ones among them. When Paul and Barnabas were preaching at Antioch, as may as were ordained to eternal life believed — then they departed. Acts 13. All the encouragement for a minister to preach among a people, so far as salvation of souls ought to be a motive, is the doctrine of election. After the death of a faithful minister, there is less of a people.

We may further observe when it is considered that we are to meet them no more in the house of God, to hear them declare unto us the words of reconciliation; but our next interview will be at the tribunal of Christ, to hear them testify, for or against us, how affecting the consideration! It is more solemn to die then if we had never been favored with the gospel ministry. People, whether they here or forebear, shown no too their joy or sorrow that there has been a profit among them. Ezekiel 2:5.

3. This subject affords a direction how minister should preach and how are people ought to hear, that is, with death and judgment in view. It is this that makes preaching and hearing a serious matter, and renders the house of God so very solemn. We must soon meet before the bar of Christ, I’m perhaps before the next Sabbath, to have our sermons and our hearing examined by him who is infinite and knowledge and in present and every congregation. Did we always consider these things, it would tend to abolish that coldness, drowsiness and indifference that too often attend the ministers of the gospel, and that formal spirit which is too apparent among hearers. How dreadful is this place! is a reflection suitable on all occasions, and more especially when we meet for public devotion.

4. The surviving widow when children will for a moment suffer a word of exhortation. Are you not in some sense his hope and joy? The Attended to smooth the rugged Road true death that he should meet you before the bar of Christ, And that you should be a crown of rejoicing in that day? If ministers and people are to meet each other before the tribunal of Christ, as having special business together, then we may conclude that this will be the case with particular families, such as husbands and wives, parents and children; you can say much about each other up on that occasion, having for so long the time composed one family on earth.

You who are this day call to mourn, must give an account how you have improved his public and especially this providence [that is, his death]. The present occasion, however Saalam, what appear more so at the great day. Consider that although he is gone to return Nellemore, get God the source of consolation ever lives–his promises are always new to the widow and the fatherless. God’s people always die in the best time, manner in place. Love only to take up the body and bury it, set your house is in order, and follow him. Manifest your love to the deceased by preparing to meet him, and make his heart glad in the day of the Lord Jesus. Contemplate the rectitude of divine government and a future world and be still.

Let children remember that you have a pious faithful parent taken away is an unspeakable loss. Your father has done much for your bodies, but we trust more for your souls; never, never forget his prayers and admonitions. Can you, dare you meet him at the bar of Christ in impenitence? This be the case, instead of those endearing and parental caresses that you have received from him in this life, he will join with the judge of all in saying, Depart! He has done for you and condemn you. Let your mother experience that tender regard and kind assistance during her short continuance with you as becomes dutiful obedient children. Make her heart clad by a holy life, and let your father lives daily before her eyes in your pious examples.

5. Let me say one word to the church and the congregation in this place: dear friends, I am not a stranger to those mournful sensations at the present melancholy Providence tends to inspire. I trust I am a hearty mourner with you and am a sharer in your loss.

By the foregoing observations you have reason to conclude that you have lost a faithful minister.

You can’t forget those solemn and affectionate warnings that he has given you from the desk: never those pious examples he has set before you. He has preached his last sermon. Your next meeting must be before the tribunal of Christ, Where are those sermons you have heard him deliver in this life Will come to view any improvement you have made of them.

Will you, my brethren, be his crown of rejoicing in that day? If you were his hope and joy in this life, you doubtless are still. It is with satisfaction we trust that he this moment looks forward to this day, when he expects to see this dear people want so committed to his charge; and doubtless he hopes to meet some of you as crowns of rejoicing. Oh, do not disappoint the hope and expectation of your Rev. Pastor. Manifest your love to him by imitating his holy examples and by having those heavenly instructions pretty so often inculcated always in your remembrance; and by preparing to give him joy in the day of the Lord Jesus.

Examine what improvements you have made of the gospel ministry while you had: and whether to great inattention has not had influence and it’s being removed. Have you ever experienced the power and efficacy of the gospel ministry upon your own souls? Have you by the Holy Spirit been formed into the moral likeness of the blessed God, and into the image of his Son Jesus? Or have you been contented with the mere form of godliness? Have you not true sloth and unbelief, neglected attending on the preaching of the gospel, during the residents of your pastor among you? Oh! what account will such gospel despiser will have to give another day. Consider, I am treat you, how dreadful it will be to have these things brought interview, when you come to meet your minister, who was once, & perhaps is now, an eye-witness of your conduct and will testify against you to your everlasting condemnation!

Your minister, though dead, now speaks. He preaches the most solemn lecture to us all this day on mortality.

You will, as it were, hear his voice when you look on the place of public worship, where he an you so often attended. When you look on his grave, which is here among you. And when you look to the second coming of Christ. Think often of that day. Let the Sabbath and the worship of God be still dear onto you; and remember him who has spoken onto you the word of God: who says follow.

MEMOIRS OF THE LIFE OF THE
REV. ABRAHAM CARPENTER

He was born on 23 September 1739 at Rehoboth, Massachusetts: was son of Mr. Abiel Carpenter of that place; who was a man of piety an industry; by which means his family received to religious education, the fruit of which was conspicuous in his children, especially his son, the subject of these memoirs, who dates ‘s conversion in the 23rd year of his age, when he became a member of the church under the pastoral care of Rev. Mr. Rogerson. He was married to Miss Elizabeth Bliss, daughter of Mr. John Bliss of Rehoboth, in his 21st year. They had 10 children, four sons and six daughters; their mother and six children only survive.

It is 24th fourth year he moved to Killingsly, in Connecticut, where he recited for eight years, and commenced a preacher of the gospel. Soon after he removed to Plainfield, New Hampshire, where you had a call to settle and the work of gospel ministry, which he accepted; any continued pastor of a church there for 15 years, and was much esteem by his people and acquaintances.

Some divisions are rising in the town respecting a place to build the meeting house, together with the great depreciation of numbers in the church, an ecclesiastical council was called, and for the reasons set forth above, thought it expedient to dismiss him from his pastoral relation to that people.

The church at the same time cordially united in, “Recommending him as on who had approved himself able and faithful in his work, during the time of his having exercised the pastoral care of the church among them.” The counsel at the same time concurred with the church and recommending their pastor, so far as their acquaintance what admit. This appears from a result Council left among Mr. Carpenter’s papers. He removed to Rutland, State of Vermont, March 13, 1789, and was again settled in the work of ministry, and discharge the duties to which he was called, to the great satisfaction of his people, and gain the love and esteem of all new him.

But few give greater evidence of this left to Christ in the souls of men than Mr. Carpenter, both in his public ministry and private department. He always discovered that simplicity ensure fullness, mixed with Christian sobriety, as endeared him to all his acquaintance, to those especially with whom he conversed, we may say without flattery, that he was a rare example of piety. His health evidently began to decline several months before his death, which at times impeded his public ministry. Love to his divine master and to the souls of men often urged him on beyond his strength. For some weeks before his death he was much trouble with a billious disorder, to which yet been much subjective, which greatly debilitated his constitution, but had in some Measure recovered; when he was seized with a violent diarrhea, which carried him off on the evening of 2 August, 1797, and is 58th year.

He was speechless for sometime previous to this accident; But while able to speak, manifested the most placid resignation to the will of God; earnestly exhorted others to prepare for death. He said,

He had no will as to living or dying, but chose to submit the matters to that God, to whom belong the issues I’ve life and death, but the great truths That he had preached to others, where those in which he could now venture his soul for eternity; that he had no desire to outlive his usefulness.

We trust he has fallen asleep in Jesus.

The Important Concerns of Ministers, 1797, Part 2

20 Sunday Nov 2016

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Part 1 may be found here.

Another important idea contained in the text is, that the church, or people of God, among whom a faithful minister finishes his work, will be a cause our crown of peculiar joy or rejoicing at the coming of Christ. It will be a matter of great satisfaction to sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and other saints of that day, but the scriptures represent that godly ministers what arrive peculiar joy from the pious parts of their congregations. Daniel 12:3; 2 Corinthians 1:14; Philippians 2:16. Reflecting on past providences will be a source of great joy at the day of judgment and as many things have taken place between the minister and his people in which they are more particularly conversant and interested, when they come to be explained, it will afford special joy and admiration, as they have been companions and tribulation, send now it is likely they will be in a more peculiar sense hope enjoy, and help each other in magnifying the Lord for special favors, and displays of divine power and grace on their behalf.

For those of or whom the Holy Ghost has made them overseers in particular: how God will give their hearers weapon converted through their instrumentality as a kind of reward and fruit of their travel or labor. When it appears that God has made use of the true ministers of Christ the conversion of some of the sauce wants committed to their charge it will excite wonder, joy, and humility in the minds of pious teachers, that God should deign to honor them as instruments of such glorious work, by which they will be led to adore sovereign grace and condescending love.

It is often through the painful labors of Christ’s servants that souls are brought home to God, doubtless he would approve of such virtues by conveying signal honors I’m such you have turned many to righteousness, who will shine as stars forever and ever.

Pious people will give such account of their faithful teachers as will meet with approbation of God, which will be expected by that heavenly plaudit,”Well done good and faithful servant!”

Their mutual accounts will be given up with joy, and not with grief, Hebrews 13:17. The hopes and expectations of such ministries are great, As the apostle suggest in the text— For what is our hope, or Joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye? He speaks of it as the earnest hope and expectation of all Christ’s ministers, by calling it our hope. They reflect with pleasure on the approaching happy moment, when it comes it will greatly gratis five their holy desires.

That it will be possible to hold equal communion with all the saints, especially at one time in the invisible world, perhaps is not admissible. It appears that the wicked, weapon associates and sin here, we’ll be companions of torments hereafter. Luke 16:28.

They are to be gathered like the standing corn, and to be bound in bundles to burn. It is more than possible that the righteous who have live together in this life will have a more intimate access to each other in the world come.

It will be useful for them to meet in some sense as distinct societies, perhaps it will subserve the interest of the universe that they in a degree continue so. It is the character of the true Church of Christ that they treat his ministers with respect in this life, accounting them as the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 1 Corinthians 4:1. They help them in their work. 2 Corinthians 1:11. God will in the great day reward people for such kindness; is hereby they express their love to Christ. Matthew 25:40. This will gratify the benevolent feelings of Christ servant; at the same time fill them with holy admiration, and deep humility, that what has been done to such poor sinful creatures should be taken notice of.

Ministers and the people of their charge will assist each other, and be united in bringing a verdict against the wicked and impenitent, among whom they live while on earth. The saints are to judge the world. 1 Corinthians 6:2. one way by which they will do this, without wispy to declare before angels and men what they know about them, or their conduct in this life. And attachment to divine justice will make this delightful work. Ministers must declare what and how they have preached to them, and the bad improvement they have made of the gospel, so far as it has come under their observations; how they have despised and mock the messengers of the Lord, contemned his word and ordinances. Pious hearers and witness to the same things, and in this way the mutual testimony of godly ministers and people will be strengthened and supported, and divine proceedings against in penitent sinners vindicated that’s the church will be a crown of joy to her faithful ministers.

The Important Concerns of Ministers (1797) Part 1

19 Saturday Nov 2016

Posted by in Elders, Ministry, Preaching, Uncategorized

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The important concerns of Ministers, and the
People of their charge, at the day
of Judgment

____________________

Illustrated in a
SERMON

delivered at Rutland,
ORANGE SOCIETY
August 22d, 1797, at the interment of the
Rev. Abraham Carpenter
THEIR WORTHY PASTOR

_____________

By LAMUEL HAYNES
Pastor of a Church in Rutland, Vermont
_______________

_________________

PRINTED AT RUTLAND, 1798

1 Thessalonians II.19
For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? are not even ye in the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ at his Coming?

The second coming of Christ is the source of peculiar joy and consolation to the people of God: it is a day in which their hopes and expectations will be fully answered. Tribulation attends the good men while in this life; the scenes of divine providence are mysterious, and many things unaccountable and insignificant without a day of judgment; they will then be explained and adjusted to the joy and admiration of all who love Christ appearing. Many of the events that take place in this life, stand in a solemn relation to the Judgment Day, unknown more so than the gospel ministry; hence it is that the attention of the true servants of Christ is so much taken up with a future state. St. Paul being detained from the church of Thessalonica, since this epistle as a token of his love and respect to them; in which he anticipates that blessed., when he should meet them at the bar of Christ, which would afford such joy and satisfaction asked you more than compensate for all their sorrow, more especially for his being prevented a personal interview with those to whom he wrote.

For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? are not even ye in the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ at his Coming?

We have two very important ideas suggested in the words. One is, that ministers and their people must meet each other at the day of judgment.—The second is, that although ministers are often separated from their hearers in this life, Get the people of God among whom a pious creature finishes his work, will be a cause or crown of peculiar joy and satisfaction at the second coming of Christ.

With respect to the first point we may observe, to give us a striking contrast between this in the coming world, we are in the present state subject to many vicissitudes.

What changes are taking place in the empires, states, societies, and families? In nothing is this more observable been in matters relating to ministers and the people of their charge. A persecuting spirit, that prevailed in the apostolic age, was often the mean of parting friends, and especially of driving preachers from their churches: the same causes had influence in every age at the church; but if religious societies are so happy is to escape such a calamity, yet it pleases the great head of the church in his sovereign wisdom, to separate ministers and their people by death; this gets feeling to a pious preacher, And in some degree has influence and every sermon he delivers. That all mankind will be collected before the bar of Christ, to see the great and intricate affairs of the universe adjusted, is a plane dictate I’ve reason and scripture; but that many we’ll meet there as having mutual concerns with each other as evident.

—More especially, ministers and the people one committed to their charge, doubtless will appear in some sense as distinct societies, as having particular and personal matters to attend to. —This supposes that they will have a knowledge of each other: for without this the purposes of their meeting in such a manner could not be answered. How far this will extend, or by what means it will be conveyed, is too curious to inquire.

It seems, unless we are able by some means to distinguish those from others with whom we have been intimate in this life, the designs of the future judgment once some measure be frustrated. The great end of that day is to illustrate divine truth, or make that appear conspicuous to creative intelligence; to affect this, god will make use of mankind is instruments; this is the method he takes in this life, and doubtless it will be most eligible in the world come. For our acquaintance to be summoned as witnesses for or against us at this court, we’ll perhaps be the best means to administer conviction. In this way the great God can speak in language easy for finite creatures to understand.

One design of the world, being divided into distinct societies and communities, without was to prepare matters for the day of judgment. The relation between ministers and people is such as renders them capable of saying much about each other; in this way the justice and mercy of God will be illustrated, divine proceedings vindicated and every mouth stopped. It is our conduct in this life that will direct divine proceeding towards us at the final judgment; that the equity of God’s administrations may appear, ’tis the salvation in damnation of many souls will be through the instrumentality of faithful and unfaithful watchmen: this is an idea contained in the charge God gave to Ezekiel, 32d chapter. It will be necessary that the motives by which ministers have been influenced in their work, be brought out to view: for without sincerity of heart they can never execute their office with any degree of truth faithfulness, and are a high affront to God, and a vile imposition on the people.

At the day of judgment the doctrines with which a minister has entertained his hearers must be examined. However, doctrinal preaching must be discarded by many in such words as metaphysical, abstruse, and etc., are often made use of to obstruct free and candid inquiry. Yeah it is evident that one great end of the gospel ministry is to disseminate right sentiments; hence it is that Paul’s so often exhorts Timothy to take heed of his doctrine. Sound doctrine, as well as could practice, is necessary to constitute the Christian character. Whoever transgresseth and abideth not in doctrine of Christ hath not God, 2 John 9.

A careful inquiry will be made whether an empty parade of learning, elegancy of style, etc., have been the main things with which I people have been entertained; tending only to gratify vain curiosity, and to fix the attention of the hearers on the speaker. This made the St. Paul condemn such a mode of preaching, and determined not to know anything say Jesus Christ and him crucified. 1 Cor. 2:2.

Whether vague equivocal expressions have been used to convey, or whether to obscure the truths of the gospel; by which anything, and almost everything maybe understood. This is causing the trumpet to give an uncertain sound; and has no tendency to impress or give feeling to the mind, as is the case with the words of the wise, being as goads and nails, Ecclesiastes 12:11.

Whether to please man has had greater influence on our composing and delivering our sermons or the glory of God and the good of souls. People will be examined at the bar of Christ, whether they have not dealt plainly with —

[Whether they had] been told their characters and danger–that they are wholly opposed to God, destitute of everything that is holy, or morally good–

That they are by nature under the curse of God’s law, exposed every moment endless well –that they are hopeless and helpless in themselves–

The necessity of the renewing influence of the Spirit–

The nature of their impudency, that it consists of an evil heart;

That they are therefore altogether inexcusable, and are criminal in proportion to the degree of their inability–

Nothing short of repentance toward God, and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the immediate duty of all that hear the gospel.

Ministers and their people must meet before the judgment seat of Christ to give an account whether the true character of God has in any good measure been investigated–

As a sin hating in sin and sin revenging God —

As one who in his sovereign wisdom and goodness has elected some to everlasting life, and others for the display of his power injustice to internal death–

That he governs all things by a fixed on alterable plan.

That of him, and to him, and through are all things.

Without this, the character of God is kept out of sight, people left in the dark, and I’m not able to determine whether they love or hate the true God.

It must be known whether people have had the character and work of the Redeemer set before them —

The design of his sufferings;
the efficacy of his blood,
and the necessity of our union to him.

The manner in which divine truth has been delivered, will be a matter of serious examination at that day; whether with that earnestness and fervor becoming the vast importance celebrity of gospel truth, tending to effect the mind.

The deportment, or examples of ministers among their people will be closely attended to:
their private visits, exhortations and reproof,
holy desires and wrestlings for the souls of their hearers, we’ll not escape notice;
the improvement that people have made of such advantages will be brought into public view.

How often people attended on the ministration of the word, and the manner how, will be matters of serious concern at the Judgment Day. Those excuses that men make for neglecting public worship, will be weighed in at just scale.

Whether people have so far contributed to the temporal support of their ministers as to enable them to devote themselves to the service of Christ: or by to great neglect, have not obstructed the gospel, robbed God, wounded their own souls.

It will be useful that the time of the minister’s continuance among the people be known, as it will serve to set the character of the gospel despisers in a true point of light. That ministers and the people of their charge will meet each other at the bar of Christ as suggested in my text and other parts of the sacred writings.—It has already been observed, that in this way truth will appear a conspicuous, and the conduct of God believe vindicated, and the designs of the Judgment Day in the best manner answered.

It may be further observed, the two matters relating to the gospel ministry are of such magnitude it appears important that it will be attended to; they concern a Judgment Day an eternal state. On ministers and people meet in the house of God it is an acknowledgment that they believe in the future state of retribution, And as a sort appeals to the day of judgment. The influence of a faithful or unfaithful minister is such as to the fact unborn ages; April commonly determine the sentiments and characters of their successors; and in this way they maybe doing good or evil after they are dead and even to the second coming of Christ.

That God’s hatred towards false teachers and against those who choose them, together with their criminality may appear, it will be necessary that these matters I laid open at the tribunal of Christ—. As a proof of the matter under consideration I may only add: that there always has been an important controversy and a greater or lesser degree between ministers and part of their people; it is so with faithful preachers and some of their hearers; wicked man oppose the doctrines they preach, and will not be convinced. Unfaithful preachers, they have advocates and opposers; the dispute involved the character of Christ, it cannot be settled in this world: how necessary that ministers and their people meet at the great day to have the matter decided, the doctrines of Christ vindicated, and the characters of ministers or people exonerated.

II.

The Influence of Civil Government on Religion — a sermon by Lemuel Haynes 1798 Part 3

11 Thursday Oct 2012

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The candor in patients of this audience are requested, will a few reflections are deduced from the preceding observations.

 

1. It is undoubtably our duty to become acquainted with the laws of the land. That by which the commonwealth of Israel was governed was to be well studied by their statesmen, Deuteronomy 17. Especially those who are to be representatives of the people, could well understand the laws of their country: of those that of the profession are not as qualified to sit in fear of government, by virtue of their knowledge and state policy. It is the design of civil government to secure the rights of men, which should be held sacred; it being so nearly connected with religion, renders it important. — It is a subject to which we ought to pay attention, that we may be in a capacity to pursue the best measures to promote it. It is remark, notwithstanding our foundation, but they who make the widest mouths against divine revelation, are commonly those who know the least about it, and form their opinion on popular cant. Whether this is not often the case with many who set up against the good laws of the state, it is a matter worthy of inquiry. He they can arrange and condemn the Constitution and laws of his country, without information, and will judge of a matter before he hears it, in the view of Solomon forfeits the character of a wise man.

 

2. Is there such a connection between civil and religious order, then we ought to support the former, would we prove ourselves friends to the latter. Indeed he they can oppose and destroy the good laws of his country, as religious character is greatly to be suspected. — He that loves religion, will value and price that which tends to its support, and feels the influence of the idea in the text, If the foundations be destroyed, what shall the righteous do? Is it really the character of a good man, the affords his influence, his property, yes his life in the defense of his country, and called for. We should most cheerfully and part our substance for the support of the laws of the land, and strengthen the hands of the legislature when they are endeavoring to adopt good measures for raising a revenue. Many are complaining that the wages of the state officers are too high; were I to attempt a decision on this point, perhaps I should appear contemptible, as being destitute of Christian modesty and self-diffidence. That men who leave their families and devote their time and talents in their country’s cause, ought to have a compensation, as agreed in all hands, — what is an adequate reward, is difficult for those who live several hundred miles from the seat of government to determine; and honest man under such a disadvantage will feel a delicacy in determining, lest he might do injustice to his neighbor. He would not view that man qualified to be a representative of the people that would be exorbitant in his demands; and rather choose to refer it to the members on the spot, or the best judges of their own expenses and retrenchments. The common labor thinks that infringement on his liberty, if his wages are to be determined by him who hires him. Should we set up office to vendue [public auction] and make low wages the test of our elections, this would be an impious trifling with the sacred rights of men, and insult on the importance and dignity of government; and dissuade men of an ignorant, low and mercenary spirit, would creep into the seats of our preferment.

 

Our Blessed Lord has taught us, by precept and example, to respect civil government, and to render tribute to Caesar. We have the same sentiments in joined by St. Paul, Romans 13: “ Whoever resisteth the power, to receive to themselves damnation. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For this cause pay you tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues.”

 

3. How absurd to discard the book, commonly called the Holy Scriptures and yet the advocates for good civil government! They are so coincident and congenial and their nature and tendency, that it is really a doubt whether man can, upon right principles, be an honest advocate for one, whose heart rises against the other. Hence it is, that those who have been votaries for religion, have generally been friendly to good civil authority. Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and thy neighbor as thyself, is an opinion me of the whole Bible system. He that is acquainted with the laws of the land, will see that they mostly point to this great object, and are a sort of comment on, or a copy of the sacred oracles. The contempt of the Holy Scriptures, domination, anarchy, and immorality are inseparable companions.

 

It is truly strange to see men of genius and education plead for the good laws of their country, and yet [be] unfriendly to divine revelation; they have certainly a reciprocal reflection on each other, and their influence in a great measure stand and fall together.

 

Would we be hearty friends to government, let us value and conform to the written word of God, that her conduct may not appear glaringly inconsistent and contradictory.

 

4.  We infer, that it is suitable for the ministers of the Gospel to enforce obedience to the laws of the state. And this way they discover a laudable regard for the rights and properties of their hearers, plead for religion, and espouse the cause of their divine matter.

 

Many think that state policy is a subject out of the sphere of Christ’s ministers, but they ought to seek the peace and good will of their people, by avoiding such matter; but he they cannot sacrifice his own reputation, his living, yea, his own life in the cause of religion, and the good of his country, has forfeited his character as a faithful ambassador of the Prince of Peace.

 

Paul was far from commending such clerical prudence as some plead for, Titus iii, put them in mind to be subject to the principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no man.

 

5.  We may learn, why there is so many sedition acts in the Bible, since religion and good government are severely connected. One we have, Ecclesiastes 10:20, Cursed not the keying, no, not at my thought. Another we have, Exodus 27:28, Thou shalt not revile God, nor curse the ruler of thy people. We have the same a repeated in another section of God’s word, acts 25:5. Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people. Compare Romans 13. The Apostle gives us direction how to escape the terrors of such laws, verse three, Do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same. When scandalous libels are cast at men in private life, they will have recourse to law for satisfaction: when ministers of state are wickedly and preached, why should the libel or go with impunity? Is not the crime enhanced by the dignity of the whole commonwealth? To the character of his chief magistrate, Oracle whole country, and be of less or no more importance than a man in private capacity? Can men think their liberties retrenched, when they cannot vent their spite and false invectives against civil rulers without detection? May we not as well cry out Aristocracy! Tyranny! And Oppression! Because we cannot commit the most daring outrage on the person, character and property of her neighbor, without being plagued with the molesting hand of civil authority? From such kind of liberty, good Lord deliver us![1]


6. The subject sets before us the importance of the present occasion. Since it is so necessary to maintain civil government; our lives, liberties and religion, and a sense, depend upon it. Men should be appointed who are friendly to religion or morality, by which they wilt be peculiarly attached to the good and wholesome laws of their country, on account of the benign influence they have on practical godliness. Men of wisdom and understanding, a force of stability, who will enforce the laws of the land by precept and example; who will not bear the sword in vain, but be a terror to evildoers, and a praise to them will do well. These are qualifications pointed out of the word of God, and ought to be software. Diffidence, and ecclesiastical and civil minister, is a distinguishing ornament. The magnitude of the object will cause the good statement true coil for thought and language similar to the chief magistrate of Israel, 1 Kings iii, “and now, O Lord my God, thou hast made me keying in stead of David my father: and I am but a little child: I know not how to go out or come in. Give therefore thy servant and understanding heart, to judge the people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this guy so great a people?” He that should thrust himself in office is a selfish man: is seeking his own, not the public good. Confidence in public opinion will dispose of man to acquiesce to their decisions about himself, unbiased by fools and flattery or bribery. He they would hire his neighbor to give him his suffrage, is to be suspected as an enemy to his country, and unfit to be instituted with its important concerns. He has already declared that he values his own judgment about himself above all others, and will perhaps the same sentiments and everything in which he is called to act. The true philanthropists wants his support of his country unsolicited, by which he is encouraged to undertake in its cause, and not from proud, selfish, or pecuniary motives. The dignity, modesty, and goodness of his mind, will render him incapable of holding himself up to view as a candidate for office.

 

Should the question be asked, how shall we know the men of virtue and patriotism? The answer is obvious and rationally decided by unerring wisdom,  By their fruit you shall know them.

 

We inferred the integrity of a Washington or in Adams, from the invincible advancement they have manifested to the rights of man, through a long series of events, when they had it in their power to sell their country and accumulate millions to themselves. Suppose such men, who have risked their lives, their all, and a cause of freedom for many years, should in the last stage of their life turn traders, when they would have nothing to promise themselves but it was disgrace, confronts every dictate of reason and experience. Perhaps it is not possible for the human mind to have a firmer basis for confidence; and to impeach such characters, without better foundation than it ever has appeared to me, at least appears disingenuous, and argues that jealousy more cruel the grave.

 

Who can reflect on the fatigue, vexation, and hazard to which a Washington has been exposed in espousing the contested rights of his country, and not feel a sort of indignation to hear his character vilified and impeached without cause? Are these the returns he is to receive from ungrateful countrymen! It is true men are not to be idolized, but when we consider them as instruments qualified and raised up by God for great and peculiar service to mankind, it is undoubtedly our duty to love, honor and respect them.

 

If I’m not mistaken, we live in the day when her liberties are invaded, and the rights of men challenge beyond what we have ever experienced, and that under the soothing titles of Republicanism, democracy, and its sector. These are precious names if well understood; but when they are speciously substituted in the room of libertinism and licentiousness, they make us sick.

 

Our internal dissensions have an unfavorable aspect, and give pain to the human breast: by these things we lay ourselves open to foreign invasions, and augment taxation. Union and firmness in our country’s cause becomes us at such time as this — it is not a time for empty complement; effeminate cowardice; nor for temporizing, when our lives [are] at stake. Our enemies wish us to delay and debate and flatter, but they may make themselves matters of all our property at sea.

 

There is no harm for the freeborn sons of America to tell Frenchmen, that we will not give up our rights unless our lives go with them;  that they were bought at the expense of too much blood and treasure to be trifled with.

 

That’s a very ghost of our brethren, who bled in their country’s cause, would haunt our imaginations?– That we treat with contempt the insolent demands of the Talleyrand, aided by a sly intriguing Directory, who would rest millions for our pockets to enslave us. — We may tell them and the most decisive unequivocal language, without loss of time, but we have a right to choose our own envoys, maintain our own neutrality, without the dictates of French despotism. Have we any evidence that the French nation are really seeking peace with us, while they refuse to treat our ambassadors, such as we send to accomplish the desirable object? While they thrust a dagger at our heart? Destroyer lives and property at every opportunity? May we not pertinently adopt the language of Jehu to Joram, II Kings ix.22. And it came to pass when Joram saw Jehu that he said, Is it peace, Jehu? And he answered, what peace, so long as the whoredoms of thy mother Jezebel and her which crafts are so many?

 

Do they wish for peace, let them come with the all with branch in their hand, and make us restitution for the millions of our property but they have wantonly destroyed; and be a shame for the innocent blood that they have mingled with the ocean, which calls for vengeance on both sides of the Atlantic. Then heaven dashboard peace shall erect her laurels on our shores, and glad the heart of every freeborn son of America.

 

Let us rise in defense of our country, and shudder at the thought of a French invasion; viewing the last drop of our blood to swallow sacrifice to be withheld when our rights, or religion, gay bar were all lie at the stake. It is not the design of this discourse to obstruct a free and candid examination and the political proceedings; this is a privilege belonging to every man, and no one has a right to take it from him.

 

It is a matter worthy of serious inquiry, whether our present Constitution and government have not the essential vestiges of free republicanism according to the true meaning of the term. Does it not originate in the free suffrages of the people; who have it in their power to appoint two, and dispose from office? Is it an infringement of our liberties to subject to the decision of the majority? True freedom does not consist in every man’s doing as he thinks fit, are following the dictates of unruly passions; but in submitting to the easy yoke of good regulations, and in being under the restraints of wholesome laws.

 

We should do well to examine whether we do not too much despise and undervalue the civil government independence that God by remarkable inter-positions of Providence has put into our hands. Whether our un-easiness under it has not provoked on diffidence to threaten her liberties, by letting loose a foreign power upon us. Let us learn to price and support the good and wholesome laws of our land, but heaven may be at peace with us.

 

But few, if any will own themselves advocates for French measures; but I hope it will give no offense to those who of late appear unfriendly tour present civil administration, if they are earnestly entreated to inquire, whether they are not practically espousing their cause, however good their intentions may be. But our foreign enemies consider them in this point of light, we have the clearest evidence, and are thereby encouraged to preserve in their lawless depravations.

 

We have heard that it is the character of the good man to be subject to higher powers. But civil authority ought to be opposed when it becomes to radical, and oppressive, is agreed on all hands. We should all do well to examine the motives by which we are actuated, perhaps they are selfish. It is sometimes a proud hottie disposition that sets men against government, and a thirst to get themselves into the chair. This made Absalom so dissatisfied with the government of Israel and caused him to disseminate dissensions among them, II Samuel xv.4. Absalom  said, Moreover, though that I were made judge in the land, that every man who hath any suit or cause may come onto me, and I would do them justice.

On the whole, let us in all these things view the hand of the superintending Providence, but rule with over the nations of the earth, and disposeth of all offense, both in the natural and moral world, so as to accomplish the best good of the universe; will cause even the wrath of man to praise him, and the remainder will restrain.

 

Let us repent of our sins, that are the cause of God’s controversy with us, and attain reconciliation with him through the mediation of Jesus Christ. Let us seek after a holy union of sentiment and affection in religion, and this will tend to unite us and other things, especially in that which is in some sense the barrier in support of it. The question would then become serious in general, if the foundations be destroyed what shall the righteous do? What is supported execute the good laws of our land, and endeavor to strengthen the hands of them who were well. Let no root of bitterness springing up in trouble is, for while the mind is under the influence of prejudice and passion we cannot attend any subject to advantage. We should exercise the spirit of love and forbearance toward those who differ from us, and endeavor to restore them in the spirit of meekness. May we all remember, but whatever zeal or attachment we may seem to manifest towards civil institutions; yet if we are not in our hearts and lives in some good measure reconciled to the law and government of God, we shall finally be placed with the workers of iniquity.

[1] Should it be said, but those precepts, the particularly respect our duty to rulers, are rendered unnecessary by those general laws that prohibiting bearing false witness against your neighbor, and that enjoying decent behavior toward all mankind, etc. We may observe that wickedly to impeach men who are entrusted with affairs of the Commonwealth is an insult cast upon the political body, tending to enervate the bands of government. The satisfaction is given to the magistrate only in a private capacity, this does not retrieve the character of the state, which has a right to enact and execute laws, with more particular relation to itself, tending to support its own dignity and importance.

The Influence of Civil Government on Religion — a sermon by Lemuel Haynes 1798 Part 2

10 Wednesday Oct 2012

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1. Civil government was appointed by God to regulate the affairs of men. Israel of old receive laws, both of the civil and religious nature, from the great legislator of the universe. This is evident to all who are acquainted with sacred or profane history. He removeth Kings, and seteth up judges, Daniel 2:21. Thou shalt in any wise set him king over thee whom the Lord thy God shall choose, Deuteronomy 17:15. St. Paul, to enforce obedience to magistracy, points to the origin of civil power, Romans 13: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whoever, therefore, resiteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God. For he is the minister of God to thee for good. Every appointment of the Diety is favorable to religion and conducive thereto, as there is no other object worthy [of such] divine attention; to suppose otherwise would be and highest reflection on the character of God.

 

2.  When we consider the obvious and for which civil government was instituted, it is easy to see that it is designed to support virtue. To suppress vice and immorality — to defend men’ s lives, religion and properties, are the essential constituents of a good government.

 

The wickedness of the human heart is so great, that it needs every restraint. To oppose the impetuous torrent of iniquity; dehumanize the soul, and to conduct men in the way of Felicity, are objects to which the laws of God and those which are commonly called the laws of men to mutually point. Without allies an interest are defended, how can we practice piety? Human laws, as well as divine, due in a sense respect the heart. The criminal is punished for his enormities, by the hand of the civil magistrate, because they are considered a showing from about heart. To say that an institution tends to maintain order, justice, and the rights of men, or that it is favorable to religion, or expression synonymous. Although the government of the commonwealth has a particular and a more immediate respect to the temporal interest of men, yet there is a higher object which they stand related, and that renders them important.

 

3. Further light will be cast on the subject by attending to the qualifications and work of the civil magistrate, as given in the word of God, from which we derive the institution. The character acquired in any possession, what wants to determine the end and design of it. The God of Israel said, the rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. II Samuel 23:3.  The character of a statesman is drawn by the pen of unerring wisdom, Deuteronomy 17. And it shall be a citizen upon the throne of his kingdom, they shall write him a copy of his law and a book, out of that which is before the priests, the Levites. And it shall be with him, and he show read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this law, and the statutes, to do them: that his heart be not lifted up above his brother in, and that he turned not to right hand or to the left.

 

The Hebrews have recorded thus, when the king sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, he is to write him the book of the Law himself, beside the one which is left him by his father, etc. If his father has left him not, or if that it be lost, he is to write him two books of the law, the one is to reserve in his house, for so he is commanded. The other is not to depart from before him. If he thought the war, it goeth with him; if he sit in judgment, it shall be with him, etc.”  Maimonides treatment of Kings. See Ainsworth’s annotation.

 

This book contained what is commonly called the law of Moses, giving directions about civil and religious affairs: this shows that the lawyer should concern himself with the sacred oracles, and that his profession is favorable to religion. St. Paul further informs us, that rulers are not a terror to good work, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same. For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, or avenger to execute wrath, upon him that doeth evil. Romans 13. The design of civil government is in the best manner answered when Kings are nursing fathers, and queens nursing mothers the church of God, Isaiah 49:23.

 

4. Were we to compare those countries and places where wholesome laws exist, and are executed, with those that are without them, we shall find the contrast raking. Where there are no laws, no subordination, their licentiousness and barbarity hold their empire, and like a malignant fever diffuse their baneful influence without restraint. Everyone that is acquainted with sacred or other histories, knows the propriety of that remark, were we to advert to our own experience, we have the clearest conviction. Is it not the case in general, the contempt of the good laws of the land, and impiety are inseparable companions?

 

We have recent demonstration, that civil authority is in some sense, the basis of religion, and have too much reason to adopt the language in the text, If the foundations be destroyed, what shall the righteous do?  It is far from my intention to appear in the habit of the partisan, or to stimulate dissension on an occasion like this, what point you to the unprecedented conduct of a foreign power, as witness to the truth of the conduct under consideration. To exaggerate matters I have no inclination, nor to wound the tender feelings of humanity by tedious detail of French enormities. To pursue their lawless ravages would be to trace the cool exploits of a bloodthirsty Hannibal, or merciless strides of an imperious Alexander. Near 20 villages in Germany have become a sacrifice to the vengeance of a more than savage army. Switzerland, Geneva, (the latter, a place remarkable for their religion and good order) have fallen victim to their cruelties. The soothing words, liberty and equality, were so dear to us, but we were hoping that true Republicanism was their object, and were almost the whole weight into the wretched embraces; but they leave not the least traces of it behind them. It is evidently the design to exterminate order in religion out of the universe, banquet on stolen property, give rules to the world, and so become the tyrants of the Earth.

 

“Ecclesiastics of every description, and particularly the professors of both sexes,” says a late German writer, “seem to be the chief objects of Republic when malevolence, immorality and cruelty; and which the soldiers were led on and encouraged by their officers.” That an abolition of religion as an object of the French insanity is to evident to be disputed; hence it is that they are inimical to civil authority, as they view it favorable to morality. We cannot mistake them, when we consider the contempt of the Holy Scriptures, their atheistic cold decisions, and they’re more than beastly conduct. Libertinism and Republicanism is most certainly their object. It is an inquiry worthy of attention, with a few years Revolution in France has not done more toward promoting infidelity, DSM, and all manner of was such as this, that half a century before. The near connection of religion with wholesome laws, or civil authority, is doubtless an extensible reason why the latter is so much the object of resentment. The contempt that these states have met with from the French Directory in their not receiving our envoys: their insolent in a Norma’s demands on our property — they’re blind and deceitful intrigues — their lawless deprivations of our commerce at sea, are sufficient to show that it is not peace, liberty and good order they are after, but to make himself sole arbiters of the world. Many have been caressed with the fascinating yell, Long live the republican! And open their gates to the French army, but have too late found their tender mercies to be cruelty, and themselves in the hands of the plundering banditti [bandits]. What outrages have been committed on the persons of old and young! Wives and daughters abused in the presence of their husbands and parents. Those in sacred orders, notwithstanding their age, illness and profession, derived from their beds, their houses pillaged, and they have been the chief objects of spite and detestation. Let many villages of Swabia in Germany witness to the truth of this observation. Such are the side effects of no law, no order, no religion; and if the foundations be destroyed, what shall the righteous do?