The
Class Leader Who Achieved the Second Blessing
Based
on Wesley's letters to Mrs. Barton
Odilon
Massolar Chaves
Copyright © 2026, Odilon Massolar Chaves
All rights reserved to the author.
It is allowed to read, copy and share for
free.
Article 184 of the Penal Code and Law 96710
of February 19, 1998.
Books published in the Wesleyan Digital
Library: 823
Books published by the author: 863
Address: https://bibliotecawesleyana.blogspot.com
Cover: Mounting
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.
Table of Contents
· Introduction
· Who was Mrs. Barton
· Be simple before God
· All the powers of hell are raging at you
· All the powers of darkness are working to
turn it away from its steadfastness
· He dealt generously with you
· I'm afraid he'll be a hindrance to you
instead of a help
· Without it, there is rarely a blessing
· That you may be more widely partakers of His
Holiness
· Your whole soul will be filled with light
· Second release
· And beware, you are no more involved with
worldly care than with worldly desire
· Do you think you never received this
blessing?
· You can have more and more of the mind that
was in it
· The enemy is driven out and cannot re-enter
if you keep watching and praying
· Some of the trials you must face are often of
a delicate nature
· You stand firm in the freedom with which
Christ has set you free
· Grace is enough
· Stay in love and carry each other's burdens
· You'll give me pleasure while you're
advancing to the target
· This is the faith of Abraham
· Everything is now full of uncertainty and
danger
· Now make the most of the perks you enjoy
· It is absolutely certain that God gave him
the second blessing
· You can have so much more grace than before
· 'Let this cup pass from me'
· Your little society still holds together
· There is often something very mysterious in
the ways of divine Providence
· They will wrestle with God in mighty prayer
and bring a blessing
· Persecution is increasingly out of fashion
· The world has never made anyone happy
· Let your husband and you go hand in hand
· He will deliver them from their bondage
· You've really been through a series of trials
============================
Introduction
"The Class Leader
Who Achieved the Second Blessing" is a 41-page book based on Wesley's
letters to Jane Hilton (Mrs. Barton).
His parents supported
Wesley's ministry. Jane became a Methodist and joined the Methodist society in
1764.
At times when (Jane)
Mrs. Barton faced crises, Wesley wrote to comfort her, reminding her that
"the Lord disciplines whom he loves."
After their marriage
in 1769, Wesley continued to encourage Jane to lead and visit the neighbors.
Jane was a class
leader. In 1769, Wesley told him, "I understand that you ought especially
to encourage believers to surrender all to God, and to look forward to the
power by which they will be enabled to do so every day and every moment." [1]
Jane was dedicated.
In 1770, Wesley told him, "And see that you try so hard to comfort the
mental, to support the weak, to confirm the vacillations, and to recover those
who are out of the way." [2]
In 1774, Wesley wrote
to him and said, "It is exceedingly certain that God has given you the
second blessing, appropriately named." [3]
The doctrine of the
second blessing or perfection was a goal of Wesley's. Writing to Samuel
Bardsley on April 3, 1772, Wesley spoke of the need to seek the second
blessing: "Press all believers to follow on to perfection. Insist
everywhere that the second blessing be received in an instant, and now
receivable, by simple faith." [4]
That same year,
writing to JaneSalkeld, Wesley stated: "Urge all the little ones who
believe to hurry up and not delay the moment of receiving the second
blessing." [5]
A doctrine that most
Methodists are unaware of or have abandoned.
A
story of life and service to the Lord that edifies and motivates us in our
days.
The
Author
============================
Who
was Mrs. Barton
Jane Hilton
(1747–1825) was baptised as a child on 28 February 1747,
at the Anglican Church in Beverley, Yorkshire. She was the daughter of Francis
and Jane Hilton.
Jane lived in the Beverley area and then in Hull, England.
"She married
William Barton in March 1769, remaining married to him throughout the
period in which she corresponded with Wesley (his last known letter to her was
in 1788)." [6]
Initially, Wesley
called her Jane Hilton. After she married in 1769, she called him Mrs. Barton.
"The
John Wesley's letters to Mrs. Barton (whose maiden name was Jane
Hilton) form one of the most famous and rich pastoral collections of the
founder of Methodism. In all, there are 32 letters preserved directed at
her. They reveal Wesley's pastoral heart and serve as a practical guide to
spirituality." . [7]
She
was a very active Methodist who led small prayer and discipleship groups.
The
Main Themes of the Letters
"John
Wesley's messages to her functioned as a spiritual mentorship focused on
practical advice:
1. The Doctrine of the "Second
Blessing": Wesley reinforces several
times that God granted her the "second blessing" (or entire
sanctification), cleansing the heart of intrinsic sin.
2. Beware of Marriage: When Jane married Mr. Barton, Wesley sent letters warning her amicably that love for her husband would not cause her to forget God or slow down her spiritual pace.
3. Endurance in Trials: At
times when Mrs. Barton faced crises in succession, Wesley wrote to comfort her,
reminding her that "the Lord disciplines whom he loves."
4. Female Leadership: He
constantly encouraged her to continue leading and visiting neighbors to preach
the gospel." [8]
A
Remarkable Passage
"It is exceedingly certain that God has
given him the second blessing, aptly named. He delivered her from the root of
bitterness... What have Brother Barton and you to do but get up at once and
shake off the dust?"
— John Wesley to Mrs. Barton (October 8, 1774),[9]
Be simple
before God
Be simple
before God! Continue instantly in prayer; and watch against everything you know
from experience to be a burden on your mind. Soon, then, you will have all your
desire! How soon your heart will be all love!
To Jane Hilton
YORK, June 25, 1768.
MY DEAR SISTER,--
Your conversation brought me much satisfaction. I rejoiced to find that you
were conscious of your loss and determined, by God's grace, never to rest until
you regain all that you once enjoyed. No, and you will get it back with the
increase; you will find a deeper communion with God and a fuller devotion to
yourself than ever before. A sincere one of these was given to you the other
day. Hold on tight and wait for the rest continuously. How did you meet on
Thursday morning? Didn't you get a taste of the great salvation again? And how
has it been since then? Are you still happy in God, and have decided not to
rest until everyone is devoted to Him? See that you don't fall into bad
rationing again! Be simple before God! Continue instantly in prayer; and watch
against everything you know from experience to be a burden on your mind. Soon,
then, you will have all your desire! How soon your heart will be all love! Why
not now? Everything is ready! Just believe! And speak freely to, my dear Jenny,
Your affectionate
brother.
For Miss Helena.
Hilton, in Beverley. [10]
All the powers of
hell are raging at you
Now you must expect
temptations. Maybe they attack you from all sides; for all the powers of hell
are enraged with you and will use every art to turn you away from your
steadfastness. But He who is for you is greater than all those who are against
you: just beware of evil reasoning!
To Jane Hilton
GUISELEY, July 1,
1768.
MY DEAR SISTER,-- Now
you must expect temptations. Maybe they attack you from all sides; For all the
powers of hell are enraged with you and will use every art to turn you away
from your steadfastness. But He who is for you is greater than all those who
are against you: just beware of evil reasoning! Simply cling to the one who
loves you, and whom you love; Just like a helpless child. Christ is his, all
his: that is enough. Incline your whole soul upon Him! Do you find in yourself
a testimony that He has cleansed your heart? Do you feel this always and have a
constant sense of God's loving presence? You never have to miss anything God
has given, so stay close to Him. Be small and cruel in your own eyes,
glorifying yourself only in the Lord. And don't stop praying for
Your affectionate
brother.
You can redirect me
to Epworth, near Thorne, Yorkshire.
It is a pity, but by
now you should read the Simple Account of Christian Perfection (I suppose you
can find it in Hull) and the First Epistle of St. John. [11]
All the powers of
darkness are working to turn it away from its steadfastness
I would like you
to write whenever you can. Because you need all the help you can get; inasmuch
as His grace is yet young and tender, and all the powers of darkness are
working to turn it away from its steadfastness, yet it is enough that Christ be
yours
To Jane Hilton
MY DEAR SISTER,--
Coming here this afternoon, I found your letter of welcome. I would like you to
write whenever you can. Because you need all the help you can get; inasmuch as
His grace is yet young and tender, and all the powers of darkness are working
to turn it away from its firmness, yet it is enough that Christ be his; and He
is wiser and stronger than all the powers of hell. Hold Him, and you will be
safe; Lean on it with all the weight of your soul. You find now as clear an
evidence of the unseen as of the visible world, And your thoughts are
continually fixed on the God of your salvation, You pray without ceasing, He
preserves you even in your dreams, Hold fast to what you have, and seek more;
for there is no end to His goodness.
Mr. Robertshaw must
stay with you another year; and do not doubt that the Lord will remain with you
forever. Always think of Him; and I think sometimes of
Your affectionate
brother.
Tomorrow I'll go
here; but I hope to be here again next week, and stay here till Monday night. [12]
He dealt generously
with you
You have reason to
lay all your care upon Him; for He has dealt generously with you. When any
trial comes, see that you do not look at the thing itself, but immediately look
at Jesus
To Jane Hilton
BRISTOL, August 20,
1768.
MY DEAR SISTER,--I
write often because I know you are still weak, caring, and need all the help. I
am not sorry that you have judgments; They are intended to show your own
powerlessness and to give you fuller confidence in Him who has all power in
heaven and earth. You have reason to lay all your care upon Him; for He has
dealt generously with you. When any trial comes, see that you do not look at
the thing itself, but immediately look at Jesus. Don't think about it, but
believe it. Look at the hand of God on Shimei's tongue. If you want advice at
any time, write to me without delay. And in the meantime, let your whole soul
be upon the One who will never leave you nor forsake you. Simply tell Him
everything you fear, everything you feel, everything you desire. Pour out your
soul in His bosom. Do you not feel pride, or anger, or desire? You will feel
temptations for everyone; and the old deceiver will tell you over and over
again, 'This is pride, this is anger!' But don't consider it. And do not
discard your confidence, which brings great reward in reward.
Your affectionate
brother.
I'm going to spend a
month or two in Bristol and the surrounding area. [13]
I'm afraid he'll be a hindrance to you instead of a
help
You, as it were, ask my advice. But I don't know
anything about it: you should have talked to me when I saw you. Is the person a
believer? Are you a Methodist? Are you a member of our Society? Is it clear as
to the doctrine of Perfection? Are you thirsty for it? If you fail in any of
these details, I fear that it will be a hindrance to you rather than a help.
To Jane Hilton
BRISTOL, September
30, 1768.
Indeed, Jenny, you
barely deserve to hear from me. What, discouraged me with a two-line letter!
See if you redeem me for your neighbor's time; otherwise I'll be mad at you if
I can.
Your affectionate
brother. [14]
Without it, there is
rarely a blessing
I can easily believe
that the description you give is just; therefore, there are only two details
left: First, do you both have your parents' consent? Without this, there is
rarely a blessing. Secondly, can he keep it?
To Jane Hilton
BRISTOL, October 8,
1768.
MY DEAREST SISTER,--
You need never be afraid of 'wearing my patience' unless it is by your silence.
There is no danger of you writing too often or too much; Whatever comes from
you is welcome. I can easily believe that the description you give is just;
therefore, there are only two details left: First, do you both have your
parents' consent? Without this, there is rarely a blessing. Secondly, can he
keep it? I mean, the way you've lived so far. Otherwise, remember: when poverty
walks through the door, love flies out the window.
Do you find as much
as ever of the spirit of prayer and continual vigilance? Are you ever conscious
of God's presence in the greatest rush of business? Do you have power over
wandering thoughts? And find as much unity of mind as ever with, my dear Jenny,
Your affectionate
brother.
To Jenny Hilton, at
the home of Mr. Francis Hilton, in Beverley, Yorkshire.
To Jane Hilton. [15]
That you may be more
widely partakers of His Holiness
The Lord's own words
show us what we should expect from "those of our own household." But
all this will also be for the good. "It is given unto thee to suffer"
for Him; and all will turn to your benefit, so that you may be more widely
partakers of His Holiness
LONDON, November 26, 1768.
MY DEAR SISTER,--
There seems to have been a particular providence in Hannah Harrison's coming to
Beverley, especially at that time when a peacemaker was so wanting; and it was
a promise that God would not withhold any good thing from you.
You feel, when you
are tried on a sensitive point, that there is no temper contrary to love
Sorrow; But is there no resentment or anger? Do you feel an unvarying calmness
of spirit? Do you perceive nothing but pity and tenderness of goodwill, both in
the moment and afterwards?
Write to me about the
trials you face. You can always direct to London, and the letter will come
safely. Expect more faith and love every day.
Your affectionate
brother. [16]
Your whole soul will be filled with light
Or they just say you're proud and stubborn. Let them
say all they can. Still look to Jesus! Communicate with Him in your heart! Let
your gaze be fixed on Him individually; Your whole soul will be filled with
light
To Jane Hilton
SHOREHAM, December
22, 1768.
MY DEAR SISTER,-- I
don't remember ever finding a fault with you before. But now I know. I have to
blame you. Why are you so short? You can tell me everything that's in your
heart. And what should stop you? Suppose I were sitting next to you, would you
need to hide something? And sometimes we can write what we can't say. But,
whether in writing or speaking, there need be no reservations between us.
You mentioned
judgments. But that's a general word. Wouldn't it relieve you to be more
demanding? Are your judgments primarily internal or external? Are they from
your own home? Can someone disobey his responsibility? Or they just say you're
proud and stubborn. Let them say all they can. Still look to Jesus! Communicate
with Him in your heart! Let your gaze be fixed on Him individually; Your whole
soul will be filled with light-- I am, my dear Jenny,
Your affectionate
brother.
To Jenny Hilton, at Mr. Hilton's house, in Beverley. [17]
Second release
Was his second deliverance accomplished while I was at
Beverley at the time of the sermon or after it? You didn't tell me how you
perceived the change, nor if it had continued without any interruption since
that moment
To Jane Hilton
LONDON, March 1,
1769.
MY DEAR SISTER,--I
rejoice to have confidence in you in everything. I believe that you do not
willingly miss any opportunity to speak for a good Master. I understand that
you should especially encourage believers to surrender everything to God and to
wait for the power by which they will be enabled to do so every day and every
moment. I hope that none of your preachers will object to this, but rather push
all people forward.
Do you now feel
something like anger, pride, self-will, or some remnant of the carnal mind? Was
his second deliverance accomplished while I was at Beverley at the time of the
sermon or after it? You didn't tell me how you perceived the change, or whether
it had continued without any interruption since that moment. Surely there need
never be decay; There never will be if you keep observing prayer. Keep praying
for
Your affectionate
brother. [18]
And beware, you are
no more involved with worldly care than with worldly desire
And beware, you are no more involved with worldly care
than with worldly desire. Be careful for nothing, but in everything make your
request known to God with thanksgiving
For Mrs. Barton (Jane
Hilton)
LISBURN, April 9,
1769.
MY DEAR SISTER,-- I
thank Brother Barton [Miss Barton [Miss Barton S. Hilton had recently married
William Barton of Beverley. See letter of September 30, 1768.] for your letter.
Both now have more need than ever to watch and pray continually that they will
not fall into temptation. There will be great danger of becoming so attached to
God that you forget, or of becoming so involved with a creature that you quench
your hunger and thirst for righteousness. There is also the risk of passing the
time, of not refining it to the maximum, of spending more than necessary on a
good conversation between you, which does not speed up your souls. If you make
a habit of it, it will be extremely difficult to let go. Therefore, now you
must pay attention to every step you have taken, so that you can start as you
expect to cling to until the end. And beware, you are no more involved with
worldly care than with worldly desire. Be careful for nothing, but in
everything make your request known to God with thanks. Your affectionate
brother. [19]
Do you think you never received this blessing?
In the past year, you
have certainly been saved from sin. And this you have witnessed for several
months. Since then, have you doubted this? Do you think you never received this
blessing?
For Ms. Barton
BIRSTALL, August 6,
1769.
In fact, Jenny, I
started to get jealous of you. I began to be almost afraid that a new situation
in life and worldly concerns had cooled the affection you already had. I'm glad
to see that the case is not like that, but that you still maintain your old
friendship. In fact, why should the word 'Love never fails' have no place in
this, as in other cases
On your last time you
said something I didn't understand. In the past year, you have certainly been
saved from sin. And this you have witnessed for several months. Since then,
have you doubted this? Do you think you never received this blessing?
If so, when or how
did you lose [See letter of September 9.] Send me as specific an account as
possible, so that I can form a more certain judgment. Wherever I am, you just
need to go directly to the Foundation. Peace be upon your spirits-- My dear
Jenny,
Your affectionate
brother.
To Mary Yeoman, from
Mousehole, Cornwall. [20]
You can have more and more of the mind that was in it
You can have deeper and deeper fellowship with the
Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. You can have more and more of the mind that
was in Him and be more fully renewed in His likeness
For Ms. Barton
BRISTOL, September 9,
1769.
MY DEAR SISTER,--Now
I understand you well; but I didn't understand you before. I thought you meant
that you no longer had the love you had before. [See letter of August 6.] I'm
glad to realize that I was wrong, and that you still keep this precious gift
from God. Undoubtedly, you can keep it always; Yes, and with a continuous
increase. You can have deeper and deeper fellowship with the Father and His
Son, Jesus Christ. You can have more and more of the mind that was in Him and
be more fully renewed in His likeness. You should send me a message from time
to time about your current experience and your current trials. Peace be upon
your spirits--I am, my dear sister,
Your affectionate
brother. [21]
The enemy is driven out and cannot re-enter if you
keep watching and praying
When you are tempted, it is an indescribable blessing
that there is nothing in your heart that joins the temptation. And there never
needs to be more: the enemy is driven out and cannot re-enter if you keep
watching and praying
For Ms. Barton
NORWICH, November 1,
1769.
MY DEAR SISTER,--
Have you ever been judged with bodily weakness or external afflictions? If with
the latter you have found a deliverance from them, it is certain that in every
temptation He will find a way to escape, that you may endure it. When you are
tempted, it is an indescribable blessing that there is nothing in your heart
that joins the temptation. And there never needs to be more: the enemy is
driven out and cannot re-enter if you keep watching and praying. Continue to be
useful in your generation; When you have time, do good to all men. Take every
opportunity you can to talk to any of your neighbors. Comfort the afflicted,
support the weak, exhort believers to press forward to perfection. Never worry
about well-being; In due time you will reap if you do not faint.--I am, dear
Jenny,
With Mrs. Jane
Barton, at Norwood, Beverley, Yorkshire.
Your affectionate
brother. [22]
Some of the trials
you must face are often of a delicate nature
Some of the trials
you must face often are of a delicate nature. You will need much of the wisdom
from above, or you would suffer losses under them
For Ms. Barton
LONDON, December 24,
1769.
MY DEAR SISTER,--
Some of the trials you must often face are of a delicate nature. You will need
much of the wisdom from above, or you would suffer losses under them. Those who
are very close to you were (and probably still are) prejudiced against William
Fallowfield beyond all sense and reason. And how extremely hard it is for you
not to drink a little of their spirit! Only what there is ill will in them can
be in you a simple error of judgment. Still, there is danger that it will
weaken your soul and drive you insensibly into some bad mood.
I believe you can speak unreservedly with Brother Howard. [Robert
Howard, assistant at York, was received on trial as a preacher in 1768 and
ceased to travel in 1770.] He is a quiet and thoughtful man. But does he preach
Christian perfection clearly and explicitly? Which of your other preachers... [23]
You stand firm in the
freedom with which Christ has set you free
I rejoice to hear that you
stand firm in the liberty with which Christ has set you free; and still more
because, although many feel this heavenly gift, deliverance from consanguineous
sin, so few, so few, retain it a year, hardly one in ten, or rather one in
thirty
For Ms. Barton
TEWKESBURY, March 15, 1770.
MY DEAR SISTER,--I rejoice
to hear that you stand firm in the freedom with which Christ has set you free;
and still more because, although many feel this heavenly gift, deliverance from
consanguineous sin, so few, so few, retain it for a year, hardly one in ten, or
rather one in thirty. Hundreds in London became participants in it in sixteen
or eighteen months; but I doubt whether twenty of them are now as holy and
happy as they were. And therefore others doubted whether God intended this
salvation to be enjoyed long. That many have it for a season, that they allow
it, but they are not satisfied that someone keeps it always. Not going for one?
You will see it, watch yourself, pray and continue to hang on to it. So you
will always give cause for joy to, dear Jenny,
Your affectionate brother.
With Mrs. Jane Barton, at
Norwood, Beverley, Yorkshire. [24]
Grace is enough
His grace is sufficient for
you. But you must keep growing if you keep standing; for no one can stand
still. And is it not the Lord's will that you should receive daily a new
increase of love? And see that you try so hard to comfort the mental, support
the weak, confirm the vacillations, and recover those who are off the path.
For Ms. Barton
ARBROATH, May 8, 1770.
MY DEAR SISTER,-- Two
things are certain: one, that it is possible to lose even the pure love of God;
the other, which is not necessary, is not inevitable — it may be lost, but it
may be maintained. Thus we have some in every part of the kingdom who have
never been turned away from their steadfastness. And from this moment on you
need never move: His grace is sufficient for you. But you must keep growing if
you keep standing; for no one can stand still. And is it not the Lord's will
that you should receive daily a new increase of love? And see that you try so
hard to comfort the mental, support the weak, confirm the vacillations, and
recover those who are off the path. In June I hope to see you. Peace be with
your spirits! --I am
Your affectionate brother. [25]
Stay in love and carry each
other's burdens
I hope that the little
debates that have already spent some time in the Beverley Society have come to
an end, and that you will all now continue to be passionate and bear each
other's burdens
For Ms. Barton
NORWICH, November 5, 1770.
MY DEAR SISTER,-- For many
years, I had a certain reticence to pray for temporary things. But three or
four years ago I was completely convinced that scruples were unnecessary. Being
very tight then, I made a point of prayer; And I had an immediate response.
True, we can only ask for external blessings with reservation: 'If it is the
best; if it be Thy will.' And so we can certainly supplicate the promise: 'All
these things will be added to you.'
I hope that the little
debates that have already spent some time in the Beverley Society have come to
an end, and that you will all now continue to be passionate and carry each
other's burdens. You have had for a long time a difficult part to act between
the parties in conflict; but just as God preserved you from anger and the
spirit of celebration, you have not suffered loss for it. Beware of suffering
loss on the other hand, with worldly care. This is a dangerous enemy. You
needed to place your care on the One who cares for you. To Him I commit you and
yours; and I
Your affectionate brother.
With Mrs. Jane Barton, at
Norwood, Beverley, Yorkshire. Correio Norte. [26]
You'll give me
pleasure while you're advancing to the target
You will give me
pleasure as long as you are advancing toward the goal, ready to act and patient
to endure all of God's will. You cannot be separated from the people until you
are removed to Abraham's bosom.
For Ms. Barton
LONDON, February 21,
1772.
MY DEAR SISTER,-- I
believe that you will never cause me pain willingly. You will give me pleasure
as long as you are advancing toward the goal, ready to act and patient to
endure all of God's will. You cannot be separated from the people until you are
removed to Abraham's bosom. To facilitate your continuity with them, I hope
that Mr. Thompson has now resolved the class as I directed. He is a good
preacher and a good man; though prone to error, or be more than man. [Joseph
Thompson was an assistant in Hull.]
Can you still give
God your whole heart? Is he always there with you? Did these trials weaken or
strengthen your faith? Is there clear proof that you are saved from sin? See
that you strengthen each other's hands and move forward together toward the
goal--I am, my dear Jenny,
Your affectionate
brother. [27]
This is the faith of
Abraham
But to trust him when
we are surrounded on all sides and see no way out, that is good and acceptable
to God. This is the faith of Abraham our father; and by the grace of God, this
is your faith
For
Ms. Barton
HERTFORD, December 18,
1772.
MY DEAREST SISTER,-- It is
a small thing to trust God as far as we can see Him, as far as the way is open
before us. But to trust him when we are surrounded on all sides and see no way
out, that is good and acceptable to God. This is the faith of Abraham our
father; and by the grace of God, this is your faith-- I am
Your affectionate brother.[28]
Everything is now full of
uncertainty and danger
For Ms. Barton,
Beverley
LEWISHAM, January 21, 1773.
MY DEAR SISTER,-- Consult
someone experienced and sensible every step you take. About moving to Hull, it
would be good to consult Thomas Snowden, or someone who lives there. It would
also be convenient to follow good advice before entering into any new business.
Everything is now full of uncertainty and danger, during the incredible price
of groceries. Therefore, most people only have money to buy food and have
nothing else to spend. But the promise remains firm: 'Seek the kingdom of God
and his righteousness, and these things will be added to you.' Yes, surely the
Lord would rather open windows in heaven than allow His truth to fail. Peace be
upon your spirits-- I am, my dear Jenny,
Your affectionate brother. [29]
Now make the most of the
perks you enjoy
To Mrs Barton, Hull
LIVERPOOL, March 22, 1773.
MY DEAR SISTER,--I am glad
that you have been transferred to Hull [See letter of January 21.]. Probably
Brother Barton and you will have an advantage in business. Surely you have the
advantage of fellow travelers on the way to paradise that you wouldn't find in
Beverley. Still, I do not doubt that some names will remain there that will not
be easily removed from their firmness. And when two or three come together, we
know that our Lord is in the midst of them.
To Mrs. Jane Barton, in
Hembrough Square,
Silver Street, Hull. [30]
It is absolutely certain
that God gave him the second blessing
It is absolutely certain
that God gave him the second blessing, so properly called. He has delivered you
from the root of bitterness, both from consanguineous sin and from actual sin.
And in that moment you were able to give him your whole heart, rejoice forever,
and pray without ceasing
For
Ms. Barton
BRISTOL, October 8, 1774.
MY DEAREST SISTER,-- It is
absolutely certain that God has given you the second blessing, so properly
called. He has delivered you from the root of bitterness, both from consanguineous
sin and from actual sin. And in that moment you were able to give him all your
heart, rejoice forever, and pray without ceasing. After that, he allowed his
work to be tested, sometimes as by fire. For a time you were not moved, but you
could say in all things, 'Good is the will of the Lord.' But it seems that you
have been giving in little by little until, to a certain extent, you have
exhausted your strength. What have Brother Barton and you to do but get up at
once and shake yourself off the dust? Shake the gift of God that is in you!
Look to Him who is mighty to save! Is he not capable, in every way, of
converting his captivity? He did not forget to be gracious; nor will He silence
His loving-kindness in displeasure. He is a God almost at hand. Just believe;
And help, while you still ask, is given! Trust Him and conquer all.--I am
Your affectionate brother. [31]
You can have so much more
grace than before
You have small children,
you have worldly care, and you often have a weak body. Therefore you may have
much more grace than before, though you may not have so much joy; no, though
for a while you have no joy but sorrow and heaviness
For Ms. Barton
LONDON, December 30, 1774.
MY DEAR SISTER,--- well
observed that in judging of the grace God has given us, we must equally
consider what our temptations are, for a little grace balances small
temptations, but to overcome great temptations much grace is needed. Before,
you had little temptation, and by His grace you could rejoice with joy
unspeakable. At the moment, you don't find that joy. No; for you have the
temptations that you did not have back then. You have small children, you have
worldly care, and you often have a weak body. Therefore you may have much more
grace than before, though you may not have so much joy; no, though for a time
you have no joy at all, but sorrow and heaviness; Yes, though you must say with
your Master, 'My soul is deeply sorrowful, even unto death.' Ah, what a gain
you are with this! when you are able to say in the midst of all, 'The cup that
my Father gave me, did you not drink it? 'See how He loves whom He chastises!
And what's at the end? An eternal weight of glory!
It's stopped for the two of
you. Prove it now-- I'm
Your affectionate brother. [32]
'Let this cup pass from me'
It is good that you have learned to say, 'The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away.' Your child is gone, but a little before you. How sure we shall attain it! It is not inconsistent with Christian resignation to ask conditionally, 'Let this cup pass from me'
For Ms. Barton
BRISTOL, July 29, 1777.
MY DEAR SISTER,-- It is
good that you have learned to say, 'The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken
away.' Your child is gone, but a little before you. How sure we shall attain
it! It is not inconsistent with Christian resignation to ask conditionally,
'Let this cup pass from me'; only with the addition, 'Nevertheless, not as I
will, but as Thou writest.'
Rapturous joy, such as is
often given at the beginning of justification or entire sanctification, is a
great blessing; But it rarely continues long before it turns into a calm and
peaceful love. I believe that if Miss Helena S. Hurrell [See letter of October
28.] to spend a little time with you, this could be of great use to many.
"I am, with affection to Brother Barton, your affectionate brother. [33]
Your little society still
holds together
I am glad that, despite all
the discouragement, your little society still holds together. Undoubtedly,
there is now a fairer perspective than there has been for some time.
For
Ms. Barton
STONY STRATFORD, October
28, 1777.
MY DEAR SISTER,-- I am glad
that despite all the discouragement, your little society still holds together.
Undoubtedly, there is now a fairer perspective than there has been for some
time. I believe that Miss Helena's visit Hurrell will come up with something
good. [See July 29 letter to Mrs. Barton.] It has been useful to many. And it
is certain that both T. Hanson [The Ministers of the Hull Circuit.] and James
Hudson [The Ministers of the Hull Circuit.] are workers who need not be
ashamed. They are good preachers and (besides) good men; And their heart is in
the work. I would like you, when the opportunity arises, to speak freely with
them. Men of this type do not always appear. You have been led for too long in
a difficult and thorny way. But just like his day, so was his strength. Whoever
loves you helps you for today, and you don't have to think about tomorrow. You
have His love, truth, and promise on your side, and He has never disappointed
those who seek Him. Peace be with your spirit-- I am, dear Jenny,
Your affectionate brother.
To Mrs. Jane Barton, in
Norwood. [34]
There is often something very mysterious in the ways
of divine Providence
There is often something
very mysterious in the ways of divine Providence. A little of them we can
understand; but much more is beyond our comprehension, and we must be content
to say, 'What thou doest I know not now, but I shall know hereafter.'
LONDON,
November 13, 1778.
MY DEAR
SISTER, I am glad that Sister Crosby has been to Beverley and that you have had
an opportunity to hear her. It is useful wherever it goes, especially to excite
believers to follow it to perfection.
There is
often something very mysterious in the ways of divine Providence. A little of
them we can understand; but much more is beyond our comprehension, and we must
be content to say, 'What thou doest I know not now, but I shall know
hereafter.' For the moment, it is enough for me to know that all His ways are
mercy and truth to those who love Him.
Even in these
troubled times, there is a very considerable increase in God's work. Cling to
Him with all your heart, and you will have more and more reason to praise Him.
-I am, my dear Jenny,
Your affectionate
brother. [35]
They will wrestle
with God in mighty prayer and bring a blessing
If you have two or three
who are strong in faith, they will wrestle with God in mighty prayer and bring
a blessing upon all who are around
For Ms. Barton
LONDON, February 11,
1779.
MY DEAR SISTER, -
This is our comfort - to know that our Lord has all power in heaven and on
earth; and that, whenever He wants to liberate, it is to be present with Him.
He has, in fact, intervened in a very remarkable way on their behalf by
supporting these friends in times of need. You have reason to praise Him, and
you have reason to trust Him. He won't deny you anything good.
I am glad to know
that there will probably be a day of visitation even for poor Beverley. If you
have two or three who are strong in faith, they will wrestle with God in mighty
prayer and bring a blessing upon all who are around. - I'm
Your affectionate
brother. [36]
Beware of anger,
restlessness or irritation, which make the grasshopper a burden
Then beware of anger,
restlessness, or irritation, which make the grasshopper a burden. But from all
this the God whom you serve can deliver you; Yes, and He will deliver you.
Trust Him and Praise Him
For Ms. Barton
LONDON, November 9,
1779.
MY DEAR SISTER, - I
have always loved you since I met you; and never more than now, because now you
speak freely to me, which you sometimes feared you would not do.
If they continue to
strive to save their souls, both must expect temptations, and of various kinds.
Sometimes you will be judged by friends or enemies; sometimes for each other;
Sometimes you may get quite smug with each other, and it all seems wrong. Then
beware of anger, restlessness, or irritation, which make the grasshopper a
burden. But from all this the God whom you serve can deliver you; Yes, and He
will deliver you. Trust Him and praise Him. - Yes, I am, my dear Jenny. [37]
Persecution is
increasingly out of fashion
If a proper request
is made of the magistrates, they will doubtless secure peace. Persecution has
been increasingly out of fashion since King George ascended the throne
For Ms. Barton
LONDON, December 9, 1780.
MY DEAR SISTER, - God
knows the way you are going; and when they are tested, they will appear as
gold. I believe that if you drank nettle tea (five or six leaves) instead of
regular tea, it would quickly restore your strength.
If a proper request
is made of the magistrates, they will doubtless secure peace. Persecution has
been increasingly out of fashion since King George ascended the throne [See
letter of December 20, 1777.]. But in the meantime, let prayer be done
continually.--I am
Your affectionate
brother. [38]
The world has never made anyone happy
Now is the time to choose
that better part that will never be taken away from you. Now is the time to
choose whether you will seek happiness in God or in the world. The world has
never made anyone happy, and it is certain that it never will. But God will
For Ms. Barton
LONDON, July 5, 1783.
MY DEAR SISTER, -- Last
month I made a short trip to Holland, from which I returned yesterday. [He
arrived in London about eleven o'clock on the evening of Friday, July 4. For
the visit, see Diary, vi. 416-30.] There is a blessed work in The Hague, Amsterdam,
Utrecht, and many other major cities; and in their simplicity of spirit and
simplicity of dress, the believers compete with the old English Methodists. In
affection, they are inferior to no one. It was with extreme difficulty that we
managed to get rid of them.
I am glad to hear such a
good account from my two little maids. [Mrs. Barton's daughters (see letter of
November 6). He was there in May, 1782.] I found a lot of love for them when I
was in Beverley. Now is the time to choose that better part that will never be
taken away from you. Now is the time to choose whether you will seek happiness
in God or in the world. The world has never made anyone happy, and it is
certain that it never will. But God wills it. He says,—
Love will obtain from me
returns of love;
And none who seeks Me early
seeks in vain.
-- I am, with love to
Brother Barton, [39]
Let your husband and you go
hand in hand
Let your husband and
you go hand in hand, awakening the gift of God that is in you and running
with resignation and patience the race that is before you.
To
Mrs. Barton
LONDON, November, 6, 1783.
MY DEAR SISTER, -- I am
always very glad to hear from you, especially when you tell me that God has
dealt well with you. I trust that He has even greater blessings in store for
you and for the little flock of Beverley. I was happy for the short time we had
together and hoped it would not be in vain. I have found love for your two
little maidens [See letter of July 5.]: there is good seed sown in their
hearts, which, if well watered, is likely to bear fruit for their comfort and
for the glory of God. Let your husband and you go hand in hand, awakening the
gift of God that is in you and running with resignation and patience the race
that is before you. You have already encountered and will undoubtedly face
multiple temptations. But you have had full proof that God is faithful, that He
will not allow you to be tempted above what you can, but will also open a way
to escape temptation, that you may endure it. O delay in the Lord's free time!
Be strong, and He will comfort your heart. And trust in the Lord. -- I am, my
dear sister,
Your affectionate brother. [40]
He will deliver them
from their bondage
You only have through
prayer and supplication to make your requests known to God; and whenever He
sees that it will be better for you, He will deliver you from your bondage
For
Ms. Barton
DUBLIN, April 23, 1785.
MY DEAR SISTER, -- It has
pleased God for many years to guide you in a rough and thorny way. But He knows
the way you go; and when they are tested, they will appear as gold. Every proof
you have had of God's care for you is reason to trust Him with your children.
He will take care of them, whether you are alive or dead; Thus, you don't need
to be careful in this matter. You only have through prayer and supplication to
make your requests known to God; and whenever He sees that it will be better
for you, He will deliver you from your bondage. In two or three weeks I hope to
be in England again; but all is one where we are, so we are doing the will of
our Lord. -- I am, my dear sister,
Your affectionate brother. [41]
You've really been through
a series of trials
For
Ms. Barton
LONDON, January 11, 1788.
MY DEAR SISTER, -- You have
indeed been through a series of trials, one upon the other. It is very well
that you know in whom you have believed; otherwise, you would be tired and with
a dizzy mind. For it is not easy to always remember (especially when we need it
most) that 'the Lord loveth him whom he chasteneth, and scourges every child
whom he receives.' Who would believe this if He did not tell us Himself? It is
good that He never ceases to give us strength according to our day; and that we
know those 'light afflictions, which are but for a moment, work for us a
greater and eternal weight of glory.' -- I am
Your affectionate brother. [42]
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