|
| ||||||
|
|
To the ReaderChristian Reader,
While the generality of men,
especially in these days, by their eager pursuit after low and
base interests, have proclaimed, as upon the house tops, how
much they have forgotten to make choice of that better part,
which, if chosen, should never be taken from them; I have made
an essay, such as it is, in the following Treatise, to take thee
off from this unprofitable, though painful pursuit, by proposing
the chiefest of interest, even the Christian's Great Interest,
to be seriously pondered and constantly pursued by thee. Thou
mayest think it strange to see anything in print from my pen, as
it is indeed a surprise to myself; but necessity has made me,
for this once, to offer so much violence to my own inclination,
in regard that some, without my knowledge, have lately published
some imperfect note of a few of my sermons, most confusedly cast
together, prefixing withal this vain title, as displeasing to
myself as the publishing of the thing, 'A Clear Attractive
Warming Beam,' &c. Upon this occasion was I prevailed with
to publish this late piece, wherein I have purposely used a
homely and plain style, lest otherwise-- though, when I have
stretched myself to the utmost, I am below the judicious and
more understanding--I should be above the reach of the rude and
ignorant, whose advantage I have mainly, if not only, consulted.
I have, likewise, studied brevity in everything, so far as I
conceived it to be consistent with plainness and perspicuity;
knowing that the persons to whom I address myself herein, have
neither much money to spend upon books, nor much time to spare
in reading. If thou be a rigid critic, I know thou mayst meet
with several things to carp at; yet assure thyself, that I had
no design to offend thee, neither will thy simple approbation
satisfy me. It is thy edification I intend, together with the
incitements of some others, more expert and experienced in this
excellent subject, to handle the same to greater length, which I
have more briefly hinted at,-- who am thy servant in the work of
the gospel, | |||||
