Biblioteca Digital Wesleyana - O mundo é a minha paróquia

Wesley's mentorship with Hannah Ball, the Sunday School pioneer

Odilon Massolar Chaves

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Books published in the Wesleyan Digital Library: 799

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Address: https://bibliotecawesleyana.blogspot.com

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Odilon Massolar Chaves is a retired Methodist pastor, with a doctorate in Theology and History from the Methodist University of São Paulo.

Son of Rev. Adherico Ribeiro Chaves and Roza Massolar Chaves.

He is married to RoseMary.

He has two daughters: Liliana and Luciana.

His thesis dealt with the Methodist revival in England in the eighteenth century and its contribution as a paradigm for our days.

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Table of Contents

· Introduction

· And may all that you are, soul and body, be His

· Awaken the gift of God that is in you!

· Never get tired of doing well

· But keep going

· Keep constantly doing and suffering God's holy and acceptable will

· Exhort them to watch and pray that they may not fall into temptation

· He will supply what is needed

· Advance with him by all means in this labor of love

· To give thanks that God has finally converted the captivity of His people

· Happy are you to whom it is given both to do and to suffer the will of God

· Not building your faith on a single text of Scripture

· Its weight was due in part to diabolical agency

· He was not ashamed to declare what God did for his soul

· Work and pray!

· These fears don't come from the One who calls you

· Go to the Lord and the power of His might

· There are two general ways in which this causes God to lead His children to perfection

· You must look forward to more and more moments of His love and power

· Awaken the gift of God in those who have been prevented from heeding His word

· We can't stand still or go back

· Have a More Spacious Preaching House

· God's time has not yet fully arrived

· Small things contrary to our will can be great blessings

· Build a large, spacious meetinghouse

· Strongly exhort believers to press on to perfection

· Particular union of spirit

· It's wrong to love everyone equally

· God's work was wonderfully revived in many parts of the nation

· We should expect to see even greater things

· This is the proper Methodist testimony

· Society prospers: God's work continues to grow in the city

· Great reasons to praise God

· Making you an instrument of great good for many years in a row

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Introduction

"Wesley's mentorship with Hannah Ball, the pioneer of the School" is a 40-page book based on Wesley's letters to Hanna Ball.

"Hannah Ball (1734–1792) was an English Methodist, a close disciple of John Wesley, and a pioneer of the Sunday School. Converted in 1765 by hearing Wesley preach, she became an active leader in High Wycombe, teaching the Bible to needy children and creating the first formal Sunday School in 1769. "[1]

Wesley had a great admiration for Hanna Ball and always praised her. In a letter to Ann Bolton on December 29, 1770, Wesley said that God had bestowed upon her with a considerable measure of the wisdom that comes from above: "I am glad for your interviews at this time with my dear Hannah Ball. Nothing could be more providential; This season, especially, you need all the help. And God has given it with a considerable dose of the wisdom that comes from above." ^{^[2]}

In a letter to Martha Chapman, on January 11, 1775, she says that Hanna Ball could light a flame between them: "Will not Hannah Ball pass by for two or three days and light a flame between you?" ^{^[3]}

In another letter to Francis Wolfe, on January 11, 1775, Wesley spoke of Hanna Ball's grace: "Ever since that madman took his office in Witney from Nancy Bolton, the Witney Society has been in decline; like the Wycombe Society would if you took Hannah Ball away from them. She has all the grace of Hannah."[4]

We publish 38 letters from Wesley to Hanna Ball during 21 years between 1768 and 1789.

An effective mentoring that brought many fruits.

The Author

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And may all that you are, soul and body, be His

Do not discard that confidence that brings great reward! Christ is yours! Yes, all that He has and is is Yours! And may all that you are, soul and body, be His! Don't back down! Hold on to it! Trust Him in Everything

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, January 28, 1768.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- I have found a special love for you since the time you spoke so freely to me on this beautiful subject; especially when I found that you had a resolution to give up everything for Christ, and even to pluck out your right eye and turn it away from you. Use the same freedom still. From time to time tell me anything that tries or bothers you. Surely you will have judgments of various kinds. Wait one after another, and conquer everything through the one who loves you. Just hold on tight to your shield! Do not discard that confidence that brings great reward! Christ is yours! Yes, all that He has and is is Yours! And may all that you are, soul and body, be His! Don't back down! Hold on to it! Trust him in everything! and love for Him, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother.

For Miss Helena. Ball, at Mr. Ball's house, Laceman, in High Wycombe. [5]

Awaken the gift of God that is in you!

Awaken the gift of God that is in you! Gladly take every opportunity to warn and exhort all, if in any way you can save some! Drop all the weights!

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, November 12, 1768.

MY DEAREST SISTER,-- You can always direct me to London, and the letter will be sent to me wherever I am. There is a better outlook at Henley today than there was several years ago; and I trust that you will see more fruit in Wycombe than there has been recently. Awaken the gift of God that is in you! Gladly take every opportunity to warn and exhort all, if in any way you can save some! Drop all the weights! Beware of everything that deadens or numbs your soul! If you can be free from the worries and tangles of another state of life, use it first. [Referring to an offer of marriage from a wicked young man that she refused.] Surely you are happier if you do so. Now you have only one concern: keep yourself in God's love, in His pure love, growing in Him. Rejoice, pray, thank forever. Draw close to the one who loves you; and for His sake, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. [6]

Never get tired of doing well

Be more or less a success, never get tired of doing well. Over time, you'll reap if you don't pass out

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, December 24, 1768.

Nothing can be more certain than that God is willing to give always what He once gives, and that, therefore, whatever you experience now, you may enjoy to the end of your life... See and pray, and you will not fall into temptation... Be more or less a success, never get tired of doing well. Over time, you'll reap if you don't pass out...

Your affectionate brother. [7]

But keep going

You should expect several trials. We know that nature is as variable as the wind. But keep going. Never worry about the well-done; Over time, you'll reap if you don't pass out

For Hannah Ball

November 5, 1769.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- Need I tell you that I have found special satisfaction in my late conversations with you? Perhaps you have noticed a freedom in my behavior that I have never shown you before. In fact, it seemed that I had just recovered a dear friend whom I feared to lose. But you have sweetly relieved me of this fear and shown me that your heart is like mine.

Do you still find a clear release from pride, anger, your own will, and love for earthly things? Do you have an unbroken sense of God's presence as a loving and merciful Father? Do you feel that your heart is continually ascending to Him? And are you still able to give thanks in everything? You should expect several trials. We know that nature is as variable as the wind. But keep going. Never worry about the well-done; In time, you will reap if you do not faint.--I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. [8]

Keep constantly doing and suffering God's holy and acceptable will

Keep doing and constantly suffering God's holy and acceptable will. Sometimes it pleases Him to let us sow a lot of seed before there is any visible fruit. But often a lot comes up suddenly, at a time and in a way we least expected

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, January 24, 1771.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- The right way is, Doing and doing the will of our Lord,

We are still preparing to receive our reward. [See Poetical Works of J. and C. Wesley, v. 427.] Keep doing and constantly suffering God's holy and acceptable will. Sometimes it pleases Him to let us sow a lot of seed before there is any visible fruit. But often a lot comes up suddenly, at a time and in a way we least expected. Thus, God confounds human wisdom and limits the one who glorifies to glory in the Lord.

I am glad that God's providence has brought you to Wallingford, if only for the sake of poor Miss Helena. Hartly. [See the August 3 letter to Miss Helena S. March.] She departed from us for a season in which we could welcome her again forever. This should be an encouragement for you to work with others who are regressing. No one is ruined as long as he comes out of hell.--I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[9]}

Exhort them to watch and pray that they may not fall into temptation

Hardly three out of five of those who are justified or sanctified keep the gift of God for a year to the end. All the more exhort them to watch and pray that they do not fall into temptation

For Hannah Ball

BRECKNOCK, August 14, 1771.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- I am glad that you remain in Wycombe. That is, without a doubt, your place: you have a great field of action there to exercise all the grace and gifts that God has given you. See to it that you may be zealous for God. Redeem time, and in due time you will reap if you do not faint.

The main point is to keep what we get. You need every possible means of taking care of your sister [Miss S. Ann Ball, who continued Sunday School after Hannah's death.] and from his mother, so that they do not lose what God has done. Hardly three out of five of those who are justified or sanctified keep the gift of God for a year to the end. All the more so exhort them to watch and pray that they may not fall into temptation. I love you more because you love dear Miss Helena. Hartly. [See the August 3 letter to Miss Helena S. March.] Peace be upon your spirits--I am

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[10]}

He will supply what is needed

Watch and pray! Do and suffer all the will of him who calls you; and He will supply what is needed

For Hannah Ball

PORTSMOUTH, October 4, 1771.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- To be 'sealed by the Spirit' in the full sense of the word I understand to imply two things: first, to receive the whole image of God, the whole mind that was in Christ, just as the wax receives the whole impression of the seal when it is applied strongly and properly; second, the full assurance of hope, or a clear and abiding confidence of being with God in glory. Any one of these can be given (and sometimes is, though not often) separated from the other. When the two are united, I believe they constitute that seal of the Spirit. But even this admits of varying degrees. A little bit of that, I trust you have. Watch and pray! Do and suffer all the will of him who calls you; and He will supply what is needed.--I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[11]}

Advance with him by all means in this labor of love

Advance with him by all means in this labor of love, though many difficulties accompany him. But what are the crosses and difficulties for those who experience the living power of divine faith?

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, December 9, 1771.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- It always gives me pleasure to hear that you are not far from the hope of the gospel. No wonder that as your desires grow in the whole image of God, so do your temptations, especially from that enemy of all righteousness. I trust that Mr. Wells will be a blessing to you and to many,--especially if he visits from house to house; not only those with whom he eats or drinks, but the whole Company from one end of the city to the other. Advance with him by all means in this labor of love, though many difficulties accompany him. But what are the crosses and difficulties for those who experience the living power of divine faith? You can do all things through Christ by strengthening you, no matter how painful it may be for flesh and blood. Now may the return of health be a blessing to you. Spend and be spent by a good Master.--I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[12]}

To give thanks that God has finally converted the captivity of His people

You have indeed reason to be thankful that God has finally converted the captivity of His people; and their preachers [Samuel Wells and William Barker.] have good encouragement to be zealous for God, for they see the fruit of their labors

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, February 21, 1772.

MY DEAR SISTER,--You have indeed reason to be thankful that God has finally converted the captivity of His people; and their preachers [Samuel Wells and William Barker.] have good encouragement to be zealous for God, for they see the fruit of their labors. On Monday evening I hope at least one of them will meet me in Newbury. How happy you are that you have none of those dissensions that tore that poor Society to pieces! Pray that all will continue to be of mind, striving together for the hope of the gospel and inviting all to strive after full salvation.--My dear sister,

His brother always affectionate. ^{^[13]}

Happy are you to whom it is given both to do and to suffer the will of God

O woman, remember faith! Blessed are you to whom it is given both to do and to suffer the will of God! It is by this means that He will confirm your soul against oversensitivity

For Hannah Ball

SUNDERLAND, May 30, 1772.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- Do you not remember that beautiful remark in the Christian Instructions: 'Nothing is more profitable to the soul than to be reproached for a good deed which we have done with a single eye' [Christian Reflections, of the French, in Works (ed. 1773), p. 211, section 208. See Green's Bibliography, no. 295.] Mr. H[artly], then, may have benefited more than you imagined. Oh, it's a blessing to suffer for a good cause! I have never been more impressed than by the image of a man lying on straw with this inscription: 'The true effigy of Francis Xavier, the apostle of the Indies, forsaken of all men, and dying in a hut.' Here was a martyrdom, I almost said, more glorious than that of St. Paul or St. Peter! O woman, remember faith! Blessed are you to whom it is given both to do and to suffer the will of God! It is by this means that He will confirm your soul against oversensibility. So it is only too great when it harms the body or incapacitates you for some part of your duty. Otherwise, it is blessed to lament a Divine type.

Everything you read in The Life of Mr. De Renty and Gregory Lopez or The Experience of E.J. is for you. Christ is ready! You're all set! Accept by simple faith--I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[14]}

Not building your faith on a single text of Scripture

Not to build your faith on a single text of Scripture, much less on a particular sense of it. Whether this text is interpreted one way or another, God's work in your soul is the same.

For Hannah Ball

BRADFORD, July 7. 1772.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- From what has happened recently, you can learn a good lesson—not to build your faith on a single text of Scripture, much less on a particular sense of it. Whether this text is interpreted one way or another, God's work in your soul is the same. Beware, therefore, of assuming that you are mistaken about the content of your experience because you may be mistaken about the meaning of a particular scripture. Pray; and observe that God himself can, and often does, apply a scripture to the heart (either to justify or sanctify a soul) in something that is not its direct meaning. Admitting, then, that the passage referred to refers directly to heaven, but that would not be proof that you have been deceived as to the work of God that was done in your soul when it was applied to you in another sense.--My dear sister, farewell!

For Miss Helena. Ball, at Mr. Ball's house, Laceman, in High Wycombe, Bucks.^{^[15]}

Its weight was due in part to diabolical agency

There can be no doubt, but its weight was due in part to diabolical agency. No, and Satan sometimes, with God's permission, weakens the body. However, we are even in this weakness of using natural means, as if it were by natural causes

For Hannah Ball

NEAR ENNISKILLEN, MAY 23, 1773.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- Thank you for your comfortable letter. Right: 'precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.' When there is any eminent example of mercy of this kind, it is almost always a means of convincing and converting others. It is a season that one would like to improve as much as possible; for then the windows of heaven are open.

There can be no doubt, but its weight was due in part to diabolical agency. No, and Satan sometimes, with God's permission, weakens the body. However, we are even in that weakness of using natural means, as if it were by natural causes. I believe it would be helpful if you had a cup of burdock decoction (sweetened or unsweetened) both in the morning and at night. I never remember having any negative effect on anyone.

Our aim is to improve with everything that happens—by good or bad success, so-called, by sickness or health, by ease or pain; and this we can do through Christ by strengthening ourselves. We know that chance is an empty sound: the Lord sits on His throne and governs all things well. Love Him; trust him; praise be to Him.--My dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[16]}

He was not ashamed to declare what God did for his soul

I was glad that you had the opportunity of spending a few days in London, and also that you were not ashamed to declare what God has done for your soul. This is the way, not only to receive an increase of grace for oneself, but also to pass it on to others.

For Hannah Ball

BRISTOL, September 1, 1773.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- I was glad that you had the opportunity to spend a few days in London, and also that you were not ashamed to declare what God has done for your soul. This is the way, not only to receive an increase of grace for oneself, but also to pass it on to others. Even this kind of simplicity, speaking unfunnily as children, just what we feel in our hearts, with no reason for what people will think or say, is of great use to the soul. I hope you can speak to Mr. Saunderson [Hugh Saunderson, Oxford Circuit Assistant] without the slightest reservation. He has tasted the pure love of God and should be encouraged to hold it fast. But I wonder a little bit how some of our friends in Witney ended up opposing the honest John Wittam [Wittam, who came from Armagh, was the second preacher]. He is indeed an Israelite; not very polished, but serious, solid and sensible. I preferred him rather than two or three young men (who volunteered for Oxfordshire), because I saw proof of him. "I am, my dear sister,

With affection.

For Miss Helena. Ball, at Mr. Ball's house, Laceman, in High Wycombe, Bucks. ^{^[17]}

Work and pray!

Work and pray! Do and suffer what you want from the one who calls you! And He will provide what is needed

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, October 4, 1773.

MY DEAREST SISTER,-- To be sealed by the Spirit in the full sense of the word I understand to imply two things: (1) To receive the whole image of God, the whole mind that was in Christ, just as the wax receives the whole impression of the seal when it is applied strongly and properly; (2) The full assurance of hope, or a clear and abiding confidence of living with God in glory. Any one of these can be given (and sometimes is, though not often) separated from the other. When the two are united, I believe they constitute the Seal of the Spirit. But even that admits of several degrees: a degree of it that I trust you have. Work and pray! Do and suffer what you want from the one who calls you! And He will provide what is needed. "I am, my dear sister, your affectionate brother. ^{^[18]}

These fears don't come from the One who calls you

These fears do not come from the One who calls you. Do not give place to them other than when they incite you to prayer. There may be a hard time, and yet a time of growth: this one we often encounter

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, November 18, 1773.

MY DEAR SISTER,--You have never done anything to disobey me yet, nor anything (that I remember) that I wish you would undo. At all costs, you must avoid any misunderstanding between Mr. Saunderson and Brother Westrup. The best way is for them to talk calmly and freely together and reason about it. So I think they'll both agree on what will look better overall.

These fears do not come from the One who calls you. Do not give place to them other than when they incite you to prayer. There may be a difficult time, and yet a time of growth: this one we often encounter. In any case, you should speak freely to Mr. Saunderson and tell him everything you think or have a theme. Discipline must be maintained; I would only make an exception in relation to that lady you mentioned. Be ever more zealous and active for God--I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[19]}

Go to the Lord and the power of His might

Go in the Lord and in the power of His power. Let everyone know when you have opportunity, and exhort everyone, that they may present everyone perfect in Christ Jesus

For Hannah Ball

LIVERPOOL, April 12, 1774.

MY DEAREST SISTER,-- When God wants to take any of His children to Himself, especially those who have been eminent in His service, He usually sends a gracious rain upon the survivors. And He hasn't done it yet. You must expect more and more moments of His love and His power to save to the end.

I hope you will have many opportunities to talk to Joseph Bradford, and that you will talk to him freely. It is simple and straightforward. Gently warn him not to speak too fast or too loudly, and let him know if he doesn't preach strongly and explicitly about perfection. Go in the Lord and in the power of His power. Let everyone know when you have opportunity, and exhort everyone, that they may present all perfect in Christ Jesus. "I am, my dear sister, your affectionate brother. ^{^[20]}

There are two general ways in which this causes God to lead His children to perfection

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, February 27. 1774.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- If not now, we shall probably live to meet again; and the great comfort is that we will not meet and we will not be separated again. Before Mr. Saunderson entered the Oxford Circuit, I promised him that he would travel with me in the spring. Another will come in his place, who is very much alive to God. Some will profit from the one, and others from the other.

There are two general ways in which this causes God to bring His children to perfection—doing and suffering. And may He take one or the other, we were assured. His way is the best. If we are guided primarily by the second path, the less there is of our own choosing, the better. It is when we flee from these sufferings that God chooses for us that we encounter 'spiritual deaths' and 'spiritual martyrdoms', as some say, that is, clearly, God punishes us, either by Himself or by the devil, for deviating from His path. No, but stay in His way! Do and suffer exactly what He seems good at. "I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[21]}

You must look forward to more and more moments of His love and power

When God wants to take any of His children to Himself, especially those who have been eminent in His service, He usually sends a gracious rain upon the survivors. And He hasn't done it yet. You must expect more and more moments of His love and His power to save to the end.

For Hannah Ball

LIVERPOOL, April 12, 1774.

Awaken the gift of God in those who have been prevented from heeding His word

Now you will need to use double diligence to awaken the gift of God in those who have been hindered from heeding His word, lest they be tenuous in mind

For Hannah Ball

LEEDS, July 28, 1775.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- Surely this is our calling, to stand firm in glorious freedom, whatever God wants to give or take. We can feel, and yet resign, like the Marquis de Renty when he apprehended that his wife was dying. And this is a proof, not of a lack of affection, but of an affection that is well pleasing to God.

Now you will need to use double diligence to awaken the gift of God in those who have been hindered from heeding His word, lest they be faint in mind.--I am, my dear sister, your affectionate brother. ^{^[23]}

We can't stand still or go back

But there is something in the increase and decrease of God's work among a people which all our wisdom cannot explain. However, let's keep going! We can't stand still or go back

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, November 30, 1776.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- From the account you give, about a quarter of those who are near you and who have been saved from sin stand firm after a trial of several years in this glorious freedom. Of those who received the blessing here in 1762 and 1763, I fear we have scarcely a sixth part that has not been moved from its firmness. Whereas, of the twenty-two who received it at Bristol, seventeen or eighteen, I think, retain it to this day.

I imagine that most of those who have Mr. Valton's advice and example would be sincere: I mean, if he has the same spirit as he used to have; And I hope that he will not go back, but forward. But there is something in the increase and decrease of God's work among a people which all our wisdom cannot explain. However, let's keep going! We cannot stand still or go back. The prize is before us.—I am, my dear Hannah, your affectionate brother. ^{^[24]}

Have a More Spacious Preaching House

It seems that the time has come for you to have a more spacious preaching house in High Wycombe. I myself will give you a plan of the building; and employ whomever you want to build

For Hannah Ball

BRISTOL, March 13, 1777.

MY DEAREST SISTER,-- It seems that the time has come for you to have a more spacious preaching house in High Wycombe. I myself will give you a plan of the building; and employ whoever you want to build. But I expect to see him on Wednesday, the 26th of the present present, and preach about six o'clock in the afternoon [His Diary shows that he preached at Wycombe on the 26th.] after preaching at noon at Oxford. Peace be with your spirit--I am

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[25]}

God's time has not yet fully arrived

From the many unforeseen obstacles you have faced, it seems really reasonable to infer that God's timing has not yet fully arrived

For Hannah Ball

COLNE, June 11, 1777.

MY DEAR SISTER,--- From the many unforeseen obstacles you have faced, it seems really reasonable to infer that God's time has not yet fully come. It is your business now to prolong the Lord's free time. When His time comes to act, who will stop it?

Recently, I have done diligent research into the experience of many who are perfected in love. And I find very few of them who have had a clear revelation of the various Persons in the ever-blessed Trinity. Therefore, it seems that this is by no means essential to Christian perfection. All that is necessarily implied there is humble, gentle, and patient love: love which regulates all moods, and governs all words and actions. "I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[26]}

Small things contrary to our will can be great blessings

Small things contrary to our will can be great blessings. We need to apply the general word, 'Take up thy cross and follow me' to a thousand little details

For Hannah Ball

[ROBERTSBRIDGE], December 2, 1778.

MY DEAR SISTER, - Small things contrary to our will can be great blessings. We need to apply the general word, "Take up thy cross and follow me," to a thousand little details: a smoky room, a cold morning, a rainy day, the monotony or wickedness of those with whom we are—these and countless little crosses will help us to go on to the kingdom. But the most profitable cross for his own soul may be the infidelity or infertility of his sisters, without which one or the other they could never have lost any blessing that God had given them. Nothing can exercise, and therefore increase, your faith and love as seems to spend all your strength in vain. Oh, how it increases, my dear Hannah, my love to you! The more this increases the love for those you work with!

We do not fully understand the meaning of this word: 'The anti-season times which God has reserved in His own power.' No doubt He has wise reasons for pouring out His Spirit at one time and not another; but they are too deep for human comprehension to comprehend. To us He says: 'What I do you do not know now, but you will know hereafter!' - I am, my dear Hannah,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[27]}

Build a large, spacious meetinghouse

It is not improbable that from that very moment a good work may begin which, if you build a large and spacious chapel, will greatly and rapidly increase

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, February 24, 1779.

MY DEAR SISTER, - I have high hopes that the manner in which your mother died, together with her last exhortations, will make a deep and lasting impression on some (at least) of your children. Brother Tunney [William Tunney, the second preacher in Oxfordshire, became itinerant in 1774 and gave up traveling in 1781.] did well to make the most of so solemn an occasion. It is not improbable that from that very time a good work may commence, which, if you build a large and spacious chapel, will greatly and rapidly increase. I advise that whenever you build build exactly on the model of our new chapel [City Road Chapel, London. A certain Jacques, in Wycombe, often annoyed them by beating a drum during the whole hour of meeting. A plot of land was found, and Mr. Batting generously signed and assumed the superintendence of the construction of the chapel. See letter of October 23.]; reducing only the dimensions, perhaps, from eighty by sixty to fifty or sixty by forty feet, as your ground permits. Surely He will not withhold any good thing from us. - Yes, I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[28]}

Strongly exhort believers to press on to perfection

If preachers and leaders strongly exhort believers to press on to perfection, then all of God's work will prosper among you

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, October 23, 1779.

MY DEAR SISTER, - Tomorrow night I will leave for Norwich [] and this little tour will take me two weeks in advance. Upon returning, I scheduled to visit the classes, which requires two more weeks. I see no possibility, then, of opening the house, unless I get away from them for a few hours. I don't care about work; But I want time. So, with God's help, I will do it. On Tuesday at noon, November 9, I shall flee to Wycombe, preach at five o'clock in the evening, and then return to London. So I can continue classes at six in the morning on Wednesday.

If preachers and leaders strongly exhort believers to press on to perfection, then all of God's work will prosper among you; otherwise, it will wither. - Yes, I am, my dear Hannah,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[29]}

Particular union of spirit

There is nothing strange about a private union of spirit between two people who truly fear God. It's nothing unusual

For Hannah Ball

DORKING, February 17, 1780.

MY DEAR SISTER, - There is nothing strange in a private union of spirit between two people who really fear God. [She had lost her old friend Samuel Wells. See the header of the letter of February 24, 1779, to her.] It is nothing unusual: in a few years I have already known many cases of this type. And I see no reason why this union should be destroyed by death: I cannot conceive that it is. I myself, since her death, have found a wonderful union of mind with Fanny Cooper [Miss Cooper]. Cooper, whom Wesley went to see at Donnington Park in 1742. See letter of May 17 of that year.]; and sometimes he would suddenly look one way or the other, not knowing whether he should not see her. Then you must remember how Mr. De Renty says to his friends: 'To die is not lost: our union will henceforth be more complete than it can be here.' And I heard my mother say that she was often 'as sensitive to the presence of my grandfather's spirit as she might have been if she had seen him before his face.'

Then Mr. Hawes left: I hope in peace! Let's be prepared too! - Yes, I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[30]}

It's wrong to love everyone equally

If you do not love all of God's children, you are mistaken; But it is also wrong to love everyone equally. We are to love with a much more affectionate affection those to whom we are united in Christian fellowship

For Hannah Ball

THORNE, June 28, 1781.

MY DEAR SISTER, -- Is it not a true saying (though in an apocryphal writer) that 'a friend is made for adversity'? If, then, you have encountered 'hard times,' [Your diary of 1781 speaks of 'painful trials' and 'many bitternesses.' See letter of November 17.] were it not for those exact moments when you should have written to me Perhaps the problems of that time would soon be over, which, for lack of that, lasted much longer. If you do not love all of God's children, you are mistaken; But it is also wrong to love everyone equally. We should love with a much more affectionate affection those to whom we are united in Christian fellowship, even if ten to fifty of them are not worthy of their profession or even turn away like a dog to their vomit. Let each of them carry their own burden. But don't love others in any way, for his sake. If you think this would be a way to ease or strengthen your mind, you can tell me what challenged you. You know I love you and put the best construction on every word you say. Make sure you don't worry about the well-doing. Over time, you'll reap if you don't pass out! -- I am, my dear sister, your affectionate brother. ^{^[31]}

God's work was wonderfully revived in many parts of the nation

Yes, and I trust that you will see greater things than these. God's work was wonderfully revived in many parts of the nation. And I don't know why it shouldn't revive among you too. Surely you should look for it and ask for it

For Hannah Ball

BRISTOL, March 10, 1782.

MY DEAR SISTER, -- I would not like to regret you voluntarily. I love you so much, and I have for many years. I was disappointed both last year and with this. Last year, your preachers did less than I expected, and this year they did more than I expected. [1780-1, George Story, John Accutt; 1781-1, Richard Rodda, Thomas Warwick. See letter of November 17, 1781.] Yes, and I trust that you will see greater things than these. God's work was wonderfully revived in many parts of the nation. And I don't know why it shouldn't revive among you too. Surely you should look for it and ask for it.

I'm glad to hear such a good report about your sister; The more active it is, the more your soul will live. I wanted to know what had happened to those little maidens, [Your Sunday scholars. She started her Sunday school in 1769. See Memoirs, p. 84.] and trust that some of them will bear fruit to perfection. As you have a peculiar love for children and a talent for helping them, see that you awaken the gift of God that is in you. If you win just one of them out of ten, you'll get a nice reward for your work. -- I am, my dear sister,

With affection. ^{^[32]}

We should expect to see even greater things

It seems that the time for more good things is also approaching. We should expect to see even greater things. The right hand of the Lord has the preeminence!

For Hannah Ball

NEAR LONDON, JUNE 7, 1783.

MY DEAR SISTER, -- Your mention of times past reminds me of the remarkable providence of God in the Oxford Circuit. Four young women were the main supporters of four Societies. One of them left her post at Henley, and both she and the Society sank into nothingness. [This is Miss Helena's letter. Hartly See of January 24, 1771 for Hannah Ball.] The other three, by the grace of God, stand their ground; and also the societies of Wycombe, Watlington and Witney. And I trust that my dear friends Hannah Ball, Patty Chapman, and Nancy Bolton will never tire of doing good! I can't find any fault with them, but rather that they don't know each other as well as I would like them to be.

If possible, I will spend an evening with you as I make my way from London to Bristol next month. [He visited Wycornbe on 14 July. See Diary, vi. 432.] I was very pleased to learn of Mr. Batting's generosity to our poor friends at Oxford. [For your assistance at Wycombe, see Memoirs of Hannah Ball, p. 143; and letter of February 24, 1779, to Miss Wycombe. Ball.] It seems that the time for more good things is also approaching. We should expect to see even greater things. The right hand of the Lord has the preeminence! -- I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[33]}

This is the proper Methodist testimony

Whenever preachers strongly exhort the people to accept entire sanctification, and to accept it now, by simple faith, there the work of God in general will prosper. This is the proper Methodist testimony!

For Hannah Ball

EDINBURGH, April 25, 1784.

MY DEAR SISTER, - It would not be strange if your love grew cold. It would only be according to the course of nature. But, blessed be God, we know that there is a power that controls the course of nature; and the affection which does not depend on blood and spirits, and therefore 'never faileth.'

I feared that there was some misunderstanding between Mr. Broadbent [John Broadbent, the Assistant] and you. Let him and you be free and open with each other, and I trust that nothing will hurt you.

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[34]}

Society prospers: God's work continues to grow in the city

I am happy to know that your Society prospers and that God's work continues to grow in the city. It will always happen if prayer meetings are held (without interfering with classes and bands).

For Hannah Ball

LIVERPOOL, April 13, 1785.

MY DEAR SISTER, - I am happy to know that your Society prospers and that the work of God continues to grow in the city. It will always happen if prayer meetings are held (without interfering with classes and bands). These events were and still are followed with a blessing in all parts of England. And Sister Coussins, [Jonathan Coussins was now an Assistant at Oxfordshire.], uniting herself heart and hand with you, can very much advance the work of God. See that there is never shyness or coldness among you, yet provoke each other to love and good deeds.

But I'm sorry you don't love me. You've already done it once, or I'm very wrong. But if he had still done so, he would not tell me, and that only in general terms, that he had been in pain, but he would have enlarged upon it and told me all the details. [Miss Helena's diary] Ball shows that she was going through a lot of anxiety and spiritual struggle at that time. See Memoirs, p. 156.] What! You think I don't like you, that my love for my dear friend has cooled down! No; I am certainly as interested in your happiness now as I was ten years ago. So use as a friend my dear sister,

Yours as always.

My affectionate love to Nancy. [His sister Ann. See letter of August 14, 1771.] ^{^[35]}

Great reasons to praise God

You have great reason to praise God, who has kept you for so many years a witness of His great salvation. And you should never be afraid or ashamed to declare it, especially to those who love God

For Hannah Ball

BRISTOL, October 4, 1787.

MY DEAR SISTER, -- You have great reason to praise God, who has kept you for so many years a witness of His great salvation. And you should never be afraid or ashamed to declare this, especially to those who love God. Some will believe his account; Some don't, and they never want patience. For it is impossible to cut off the occasion of offense of those who seek occasion. When we speak for God, we must speak in all calmness and at the same time in all sincerity. But by those who do not profit by it, this seriousness will be justified as anger. But still, it is enough to remain cautious and firmly between the two extremes.

Surely you can expect to see such a work at High Wycombe as never before. Next Monday, I hope to leave for London. This winter I will not have time for many trips; but, without a doubt, I will find time to visit it. Peace be with all your spirits! -- I am, my dear sister,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[36]}

Making you an instrument of great good for many years in a row

You have gone through many challenges of various kinds since then; -but the Lord hath delivered thee from them all, and hath honored thee by making thee an instrument of great good for many years in succession. He has given you the opportunity to be of service to many unawakened souls and many believers. He now honors them by making them partakers of His sufferings

For Hannah Ball

LONDON, November 26, 1789.

MY DEAR SISTER, -- I was glad to receive one more line from you--perhaps the last I shall receive. It has been many years since I gave you counsel, that God allowed you to follow and sever your connection with an ungodly man—a very unusual case of resolution. You have gone through many challenges of various kinds since then; -but the Lord hath delivered thee from them all, and hath honored thee by making thee an instrument of great good for many years in succession. He has given you the opportunity to be of service to many unawakened souls and many believers. He now honors you by making you partakers of His sufferings: as much as you will conform to His death, and know the power of His resurrection. You're almost exhausted for a good cause; But a little more, and the pain is no more. Look up, my dear friend. The prize is before us: we are about to meet so as not to be separated anymore. With time and eternity you will be united to

His brother always affectionate. ^{^[37]}

[1] Overview of Google's AI Mode

[2]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/

[3]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/

[4] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/

[5] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1768/

[6] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1768/

[7] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1768/

[8] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1769/

[9]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1771/

[10]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1771/

[11]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1771/

[12]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1771/

[13]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[14]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[15]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[16]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/

[17]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/

[18]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/

[19]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/

[20]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/

[21]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/

[22]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/

[23]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/

[24]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1776/

[25]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1777/

[26]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1777/

[27]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1778/

[28]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1779/

[29]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1779/

[30]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1790/

[31]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1781/

[32]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1782b/

[33]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783a/

[34]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1784a/

[35]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1786a/

[36]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1787/

[37]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789/

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