Wesley
and God's Glorious Work in America
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: 838
Books published by the author: 878
Address: https://bibliotecawesleyana.blogspot.com
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
Expansion of Methodism in
America
In various parts of
England, as well as in America, God has recently revived many young people
The alteration made in
America and Scotland [The ordinances of 1784.]
I felt it my duty to take
an extraordinary step to send all the help I could
A Delightful Account of
God's Work in America
Prophecy that all
Methodists should go to America in the belly of a whale
Melancholic truths
I believe we can count on
Captain over America
Based on this principle, I
left for America
I won't be a bishop until
I'm in America
I had ten times as many
businesses in America as I did in my entire life
Eames Emigrated to America
It's time to embark for
America
Some ideas of going to America
Let Brother Shadford,
Asbury, and you go hand in hand, and who can oppose you?
There is a clear account of
everything concerning late ordination. [For America.]
It is very likely that your
desire to go to America comes from God
My appeal to America is
still unclear
So far, I don't have to
think about my going to America
There are only three
Methodist Societies in America
Brother Asbury and you will
be friends of separation
Never has America had such
a great call to repentance
Glorious Work in America
Obey the 'Powers That Be'
in America
Surprised to receive some
letters from Mr. Asbury
The Greatest Danger to
God's Work in America
A Request to a Bishop to
Appoint Pious, Simple Pastors to America
A comfortable account of
the rapid and extensive progress of God's work in America
Very Pleasant Account of
the Progress of the Gospel in America
A
Connected Relation of What Our Lord Has Done in America
============================
Introduction
"Wesley and the
Glorious Work of God in America" is a 53-page book based on Wesley's
letters.
"The 'glorious work'
that John Wesley saw in Methodism in America was theexplosive growth and
autonomous spiritual fervorof the movement. After a discouraging start as a
missionary in Savannah, Georgia, in the 1730s, he witnessed Methodism become
the largest religious movement in the U.S. after American Independence."[1]
"In September 1784, he
invoked the principle of primitive, Bible-based apostolic succession to ordain
Thomas Coke, Richard Whatcoat, and Thomas Vasey.
Thomas Coke was consecrated
as superintendent and sent to America with instructions to ordain Francis
Asbury to the same post, structuring and legalizing the Methodist faith on
American soil."[2]
To Henry Brooke, June 14,
1786, Wesley said: Last year the case of our brethren in North America was
considered utterly isolated both from the English Church and the State. In such
a peculiar case, I thought it my duty to take an extraordinary step to send all
the help I could."[3]
In a letter to Garrettson
Free on February 3, 1790, Wesley said that he had received a comfortable
account of the rapid and extensive progress of God's work in America: "Two
or three weeks ago I had the pleasure of receiving a letter from you dated August
23, 1789, which gives me a comfortable account of the rapid and extensive
progress of God's work in America."[4]
"Unlike the English
parochial model, America required mobility. The so-called 'circuit riders'
traveled on horseback over vast distances, reaching isolated settlers, rural
and frontier communities."[5]
On a few occasions, Wesley
mentored Methodist preachers in America. On October 3, 1783, he wrote,
"I do not wish that our American brethren should receive any who have
difficulty in receiving Francis Asbury as Assistant General. Doubtless the greatest
danger to the work of God in America is likely to arise from preachers coming
from Europe, or from those who will arise among you speaking wicked things, or
bringing among you new doctrines, particularly Calvinism."[6]
Wesley even had the purpose
of going to America, but it didn't materialize. Writing to Lady Maxwell on 17
February 1770, he said: "I have some ideas of going to America. But the
path is still unclear. I wait until Providence speaks more clearly on one side
or the other."[7]
A story that shows us the
hand of God in the revival and expansion of Methodism in America.
The Author
============================
Expansion
of Methodism in America
Explosive Expansion and the
New Reality (1760–1780)
"Methodism spread to
the 13 American Colonies through immigrants and lay preachers in the
1760s."[8]
To Richard Whatcoat, on
July 17, 1788, Wesley said, "In various parts of England, as well as in
America, God has recently revived many young people, full of life and fire, and
who have spread the fire of love wherever their destiny has been cast."[9]
Wesley viewed the rapid
growth of Methodism in America with admiration and pastoral care.
Writing
to Francis Asbury on September 30, 1785, Wesley said, "MY DEAR BROTHER, -
It is a pleasure to hear that God prospers his labors even in the barren soil
of South Carolina. [Asbury had
visited Chariestown on February 24.]".[10]
Wesley
even thought about going to America. But writing to Mrs. Marston, December 14,
1770, he showed what his vision was: "If I live till spring, and have a
clear and urgent calling, I am as ready to depart for America as I am for
Ireland. All places are the same for me; I'm not attached to any one in
particular. Wherever our Lord's work is done, that is my place today."[11]
To Francis Asbury, on
November 25, 1787, Wesley said, "A glorious work, indeed, God has been at
work for several years, and is still at work in America."[12]
Initially, Wesley
"instructed North American Methodists to remain attached to the Church of
England (which included going to local churches to take Communion), since Methodism
was born as a renewal movement, not a new denomination."[13]
The Creation of the Methodist Church (1784)
"After the American
War of Independence (1775–1783), political and ecclesiastical ties between the
former colonies and Great Britain were severed."[14]
Many English Anglican
pastors decided to return to England. English Methodist preachers who were in
America, like Asbury, decided to stay, in the midst of the war. Writing to
Thomas Rankin on August 13, 1775, Wesley said, "I do not regret that Brother
Asbury stays with you another year. At that time it will be seen what God will
do with America, and you will easily judge whether our preachers are called to
remain there any longer. If they are, God will make their way clear and give
them favor even with men who delight in war."[15]
With the departure of most
of America's Anglican pastors, "local Methodists were left without clergy
to baptize and minister the Lord's Supper.
Faced with this emergency,
Wesley made a bold decision: in 1784,he himself ordained ministers and
overseers(like Thomas Coke) to America, thus breaking with the structure of
the Church of England."[16]
To
George Shadford, in [late March] 1773, Wesley said, "The time has come to
embark for America. You must descend to Bristol, where you will meet Thomas
Rankin, Captain Webb, and his wife. I let you choose, George, on the great
American continent."[17]
"This resulted in the
official founding of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Although he was reluctant
to separate the English Methodists, Wesley accepted that the dynamics in
America required an independent organization, which soon grew far beyond his
initial expectations."[18]
Wesley gave support to
Methodism in America. Writing to Francis Asbury, September 20, 1788, Wesley
said, "You are the elder brother of the American Methodists: I am, under
God, the father of the whole family. So I naturally care about all of you in a
way that no one else can. Therefore, to some extent, I provide for all of you;
for the supplies that Dr. Coke provides him, he could not provide if it were
not for me, if I not only allowed him to collect, but also supported him in
this process."[19]
Several of Wesley's letters
reveal his concern and enthusiasm for the growth of Methodism in America:
In
various parts of England, as well as in America, God has recently revived many
young people
To Richard Whatcoat
LONDON,
July 17, 1788.
MY DEAR
BROTHER,-- I am never so busy that I don't take the time to remember my
friends. I have not heard of you taking any action that I disapprove of. It
wasn't your fault that you didn't get to the office I assigned you. Brother
Casey is very much looking forward to being assigned to the English or Irish
circuit, and I believe it will be for his good. He will be both holier and
happier than in his American life.
In
various parts of England, as well as in America, God has recently revived many
young people, full of life and fire, and who have spread the fire of love
wherever their destiny has been cast. It was not well judged by Brother Asbury
to suffer, much less indirectly encourage, this foolish step in the recent
Conference. Every preacher present should, both in duty and prudence, have
said, 'Brother Asbury, Mr. Wesley is your father, consequently ours, and we
will affirm it before all the world.' It is indeed probable that the
disagreement with me, as soon as my head is set, will cause a complete rupture
between the English and American Methodists. They will naturally say, 'If they
can do without us, we can do without them.' But they will find a bigger difference
than they realize. Then came a separation between them. Well, whatever happens
tomorrow, may you and I live today! -- I am, dear Richard,
Your
affectionate friend and brother.
To the
Rev. Mr. Whatcoat, in Philip Rogers, Esq.
In
Baltimore, Maryland. Posto for New York.[20]
The
alteration made in America and Scotland [The ordinances of 1784.]
To
Samuel Bardsley
BRISTOL,
March 4, 1786.
DEAR
SAMMY, - I am glad to know that God has had the pleasure of enlarging His work
in Scarborough, where I expect to be (on returning from Scotland) about the
14th of June. How circuits can be more advantageously is suitable to be
considered at the Conference. [The Pocklington Circuit was formed in 1786. See
the letter of February 23, 1785.]
The Life
of Mr. John Fox [The Life of John Foxe the Martyr, named after his son, was
preceded by the 1641 edition of Acts and Monuments.] is truly remarkable. I
don't know, but it might be worth republishing.
If Mr.
Fletcher [see letter of September 15, 1785.] had traveled like you or me, I
believe he would have lived these twenty years. - Yes, I am, dear Sammy,
Your
affectionate brother.
To Mr.
Bardsley, at Captain Robinson's house,
At
Bridlington Quay, Yorkshire.[21]
I felt
it my duty to take an extraordinary step to send all the help I could
Last
year the case of our brethren in North America was considered wholly isolated
from both the English Church and the State. In such a peculiar case, I felt it
my duty to take an extraordinary step to send all the help I could.
To Henry Brooke
WHITBY,
June 14, 1786.
DEAR
HARRY, "I'll give you an answer at will."
In the
year 1729, four young gentlemen met in Oxford, all zealous members of the
Church of England and all determined to be biblical Christians. Within six
years, they had increased to sixteen, and they were still in exactly the same
opinion. By 1738, only two of these remained together; but a few more joined
them, which continually increased until a few hundred joined in. But still they
constantly attended church; only if any Dissenter wished to join them, would
have no objection to his attending that worship to which he was accustomed.
But in
1740, Dr. Gibson, then Bishop of London, said, 'Messrs. Wesley cannot leave the
Church, so they could do no more harm.' We understood this well. It meant,
'They could do no more good; for none out of ten of the hearers present would
hear them.' [See February 21 letter to Thomas Taylor.] But, whether they wanted
it or not, we would not leave it; our conscience would not allow it.
In 1743,
the Rules of Our Society were published; one of them was, 'to attend the Church
and the Sacrament.' This all our members (except the Dissenters) were obliged
to do, or could not remain with us.
In 1744,
in our first Conference, we (Methodist preachers) regarded ourselves as
extraordinary messengers whom God had raised up to provoke the common
messengers, the clergy, to jealousy; to preach the gospel to the poor, and to
call all men of all denominations to worship him in spirit and in truth. But it
never came to our mind to separate ourselves from the Church or to form
ourselves into a distinct party. And here was a new phenomenon on earth,
something never seen before—a group of men highly favored by God, who yet chose
to remain in their own religious community, and not to separate, from that very
reason, to be the servants of all.
But it
was not easy to maintain this resolution. For those of us who were Dissenters
often encouraged these words: 'Come out from among them and separate.' And many
clergymen have strengthened their hands, either by their accusations of lies
and pins, or by their wicked lives or false doctrines; wherefore many were
hardened in sin, and many who began to run well returned like a dog to their
vomit.
These
objections were so frequently and strongly raised that in the year 1758 it was
fully considered at the Leeds Conference whether we should separate from the
Church or not. After calmly weighing everything, we decided on the negative.
Mr. Ingham, present in us, commended our determination in very strong terms;
concluding whenever the Methodists leave the church, God will leave them. [See
letter of August 19, 1785.]
To avoid
this, we all agree (1) to constantly exhort all our people to attend church and
the sacrament; and (2) still preach on Sundays, morning and evening, not during
church hours. In fact, in taking the contrary measures, in exhorting our people
not to go to church, or (which has come to the same point) in appointing them
to preach in church hours, we should immediately separate ourselves from it.
Last
year the case of our brethren in North America was considered wholly isolated
from both the English Church and the State. In such a peculiar case, I felt it
my duty to take an extraordinary step to send all the help I could. [See letter
of September 10, 1784.] And I bless God that this has had an admirable effect.
'But
why,' say some, 'you shouldn't take the same step here?' Because it's not the
same case. They don't separate themselves from anyone. They had no Church!
Unfortunately! No, King! We have both.
'Well,
but weigh their motives. If we were to go to church to hear ourselves insulted,
with incursions, yes, and lying accusations: 'What said that blessed Philip
Henry, [See letter of October 18, 1778.] when his friend said (after hearing
such a sermon), 'I hope, sir, that you will not go to church any more' 'In
fact, I will go in the afternoon; if the minister does not know his duty, I
bless God, I know mine.'
We are
members of the Church of England, we are not a particular sect or party, we are
friends with all, we quarrel with no one for their opinions or mode of worship,
we love those of the Church where we were brought up, but we impose them on no
one; in some non-essential circumstances we vary somewhat from the usual modes
of worship, and have several small prudential aids peculiar to us; but still,
we dare not, dare not separate from the Church until we see other reasons than
those we have already seen. Until then, I say with St. Aventão (only taking the
word 'Heretic' in the biblical sense, which has nothing to do with opinions),
Errare possum, hreticus esse nolo. - I am, dear Harry,
With
great affection.[22]
A
Delightful Account of God's Work in America
You send
me a pleasant account of God's work in America. It is amazing that any
good should be done in a time of such haste and confusion, when one imagines
that man would think only of the works of the devil
For William Wafters
LONDON,
February 22, 1782.
MY DEAR
BROTHER, -- You send me a pleasing account of God's work in America. It is
striking that any good should be done in a time of such haste and confusion,
when one imagines that man would think only of the works of the devil. I would
like you to send me, whenever you have the opportunity, a specific report of
what is happening throughout the province. Previously, we had a few societies
in North Carolina and also Maryland. I hope they still subsist and are growing
in grace, as well as increasing in number. It is a great blessing that there is
an end to this unfortunate dispute, which would otherwise have torn you all
apart. Again and again, it was put into operation in England and Ireland, but
it never reached any height. We always took care to suppress this early on, so
it couldn't cause too much harm.
I hope
Mr. Jarrett is not tired of doing well, but continues with his labor of love.
Every now and then, I suppose you can send a letter to New York and then to
your friends in England. The word of God has free flow through all these
kingdoms and deepens deep into many hearts. I have pleasant reports from
various parts where many are justified and many sanctified, and so it is where
our preachers strongly and explicitly exhort all believers to press forward to
perfection.
Peace be
with all your spirits. -- I am, my dear brother,
Your
affectionate brother.[23]
Prophecy
that all Methodists should go to America in the belly of a whale
James
Kershaw is completely crazy, more so than John Reed has been. [See letters of
March 3, 1776 (to Mrs. Woodhouse) and February 15, 1777.] He prophesies that
'all Methodists must go to America in the belly of a whale.' Take this as a
specimen.
For
Christopher Hopper
NEAR LONDON, FEBRUARY 1,
1777.
MY DEAR BROTHER,--James
Kershaw is completely mad, more so than John Reed was. [See letters of March 3,1776
(for Mrs. Woodhouse) and February 15, 1777.] He prophesies that 'all
Methodists must go to America in the belly of a whale.' Take this as a
specimen.
We will
not begin our construction here before April. I will probably make a short trip
(to Leeds, Newcastle or Dublin) once a month; but I must never be away for too
long. [See letter of February 14.] How we will get the money I don't know. But
'the earth is the Lord's and his fulness'.—I am
Your
affectionate friend and brother.
To Mr.
Hopper, in the Preaching House,
In
Manchester.[24]
Melancholic
truths
For Thomas Taylor
LIVERPOOL,
April 12, 1782.
That
'the war has been badly conducted,' that 'millions of money and thousands of
lives have been wasted,' that 'numerous families have been ruined, commerce
greatly damaged,' that we are 'in danger of losing all of North America, if not
the East Indies as well,' 'that our commanders, both by sea and land, love to
rob and pillage far better than to fight,
they are melancholy truths which no man with knowledge of public affairs
can deny
DEAR
TOMMY, -- I think the difference between us is very small, for the most part of
what you say, I agree. That 'the war has been badly conducted,' that
'millions of money and thousands of lives have been wasted,' that 'numerous
families have been ruined, commerce greatly damaged,' that we are 'in danger of
losing all of North America, if not the East Indies as well,' 'that our
commanders, both by sea and land, love to rob and pillage far better than to
fight, they are melancholy truths which
no man with knowledge of public affairs can deny. But you still don't know
half of it. If we live to meet, I can tell you stranger things than all of
these.
I
changed the plan of my travels: from Leeds I go to Lincolnshire, and thence
through Hull and Scarborough to Newcastle. So that I won't be in York [Taylor
was assistant there.] until the end of June. -- I am, with love to Sister
Taylor, dear Tommy,[25]
Your caring friend and brother
I
believe we can count on Captain over America
To your brother Charles
SHOREHAM, December 15, 1772.
DEAR
BROTHER,--I have scarcely had a day in London, except Sundays and visiting
hours. Dr. Ford never came close to me, nor very close to Billy Ley. Fear
evadir, erupit [In Cicero's Catilinam, ii. II: 'He disappeared, he escaped'
(Cicero on Catiline)]. I wrote to Mr. Fletcher today. When Mr. Hill is going to
fall on me next, Mr. Fletcher will have a little time to breathe, and probably
a little longer while Mr. Hill digests my answer; for whom I think together we
will find work for some time.
Now, you
are not going to stand shoulder to shoulder, or you can say something about the
Church; But two are better than m. If we live till August, stay by my side, and
we will close the matter [See letter of May 30, 1773].
I often
shout, Vitae me redde priori! [Epistles of Horace, I. vii. 95: 'Give me back my
former life.'] Let me be an Oxford Methodist again! I am often in doubt
whether it would not be better for me to take up all my Oxford rules, great and
small. So, I walked closely with God and redeemed time. But what have I been
doing these thirty years
My love
to all. Goodbye![26]
Based on
this principle, I left for America
On the basis of this
principle, I set out for America, on the basis of which I visited the Moravian
Church, and with the same motive I am ready now (God being my helper) to go to
Abyssinia or China, or wherever God wills, by this conviction, to call me.
LONDON, March 20, 1739.
DEAR LORD, -- The best return I can make for
the generous freedom you use is to use the same for yourself. O that the God
whom we serve sanctify it for both of us, and teach us the whole truth as it is
in Jesus!
You say you can't reconcile some parts of my
behavior with the character I've always supported. No, nor will I ever have.
That is why I renounced this character on every possible occasion. I said
to everybody on our ship, in Savannah, in Frederica, and this over and over
again, in express terms, 'I am not a Christian; I'll only follow later, if
maybe I can catch up with it.' When they insisted upon my works and
self-denial, I replied briefly, 'Though I give all my goods to feed the poor,
and my body to burn, I am nothing: for I have no charity; I don't love God with
all my heart.' If they added, 'No, but you could not preach as you do if
you were not a Christian,' I would confront them again with St. Paul: 'Though I
speak with the tongue of men and angels, and have no charity, I am nothing.'
Therefore, with great fervor, both in public and in private, I inculcated this:
'I have not shaken you, no matter how far I fall; for the foundation stands.'
Based on this principle, I
left for America, based on this I visited the Moravian Church
If you ask on what principle, then, I acted,
it was this: A desire to be a Christian; and a conviction that whatever I judge
favorable to it, I am bound to do; wherever I think I can best answer this end,
where it is my duty to go. On the basis of this principle, I set out for
America, on the basis of which I visited the Moravian Church, and with the same
motive I am ready now (God being my helper) to go to Abyssinia or China, or
whithersoever God wills, by this conviction, to call me.
As for your advice that I
should settle down in college, I have nothing to do there, since I have no
office and no students
As for your advice that I should settle down
in college, I have nothing to do there, since I have no office and no students.
And if the other branch of your proposal is convenient for me, namely, 'Accept
a healing of souls,' will be time enough to consider when one is offered to me.
But in the meantime, you think I should be
quiet; for otherwise I would break into someone else's office if I interfered
in the affairs of others and intruded into souls that did not belong to me. So
you ask, 'How is it that I gather Christians, who are not my responsibility, to
sing psalms, to pray, and to hear the Scriptures explained,' and you find it
difficult to justify doing so in other men's parishes, on the basis of Catholic
principles.
God in the Scriptures
commands me, according to my power, to instruct the ignorant, to reform the
wicked, to strengthen the virtuous
Let me speak clearly. If by Catholic
principles you mean anything that is not scriptural, they don't matter to me. I
allow no other rule, whether of faith or practice, than the Holy Scriptures;
But according to Bible principles, I do not find it difficult to justify
whatever you do. God in the Scriptures commands me, according to my power,
to instruct the ignorant, to reform the wicked, to strengthen the virtuous. The
man forbids me to do this in the parish of another: that is, in practice, to do
it in fact; since I do not have my own parish now, nor probably ever will be.
To whom, then, shall I listen, God or man: 'If it is righteous to obey man
rather than God, let him judge yourself. A dispensation from the gospel is
entrusted to me; and woe is me if I do not preach the gospel.' But where should
I preach it, based on the principles you mention? Why, not in Europe, Asia,
Africa or America; at least in none of the Christian parts of the habitable
earth: for all these are, in a sense, divided into parishes. If it be said, 'Go
back then to the heathen whence they came,' no, but I could not now (according
to their principles) preach to them; for all the pagans in Georgia belong to
the parish of Savannah or Frederica.
I see the whole world as my
parish
Let me now tell you my principles on this
subject. I see the whole world as my parish; So far I want to say, that in
whatever part of it I stand, I think it proper, and my obligatory duty, to
declare, to all who will hear, the glad tidings of salvation. This is the work
to which I know God has called me; and I'm sure His blessing goes with it.
Therefore, I received great encouragement to be faithful in fulfilling the work
He gave me to do. Your servant I am; and as such I am employed according to the
clear direction of His word--'when I have opportunity, doing good to all men.'
And His providence plainly agrees with His word, which has shut me off from all
other things that I alone could attend to just that, 'and do good.'
He powerfully confirms the
words I speak, by the Holy Spirit given to those who hear them
If you ask, 'How can this be, How can good be
done, of whom men say all manner of evil,' I will remind you (though you
already knew it—yes, and have established me much in this great truth), the
more evil men say of me for my Lord's sake, the more good He will do for me.
That it is by Him that I know, and He knows, and the event agrees with it; for
He powerfully confirms the words I speak, by the Holy Spirit given to those who
hear them. O my friend, my heart is moved toward you. I fear that you here have
'made shipwreck of faith.' I fear that 'Satan, transformed into an angel of
light', has attacked you and prevailed as well. I fear that descendants of
hell, whether of worldly or mystical prudence, have turned you away from the
simplicity of the gospel. How else could you conceive that being despised and
"hated of all men" would make us less fit for the service of our
Master? How else could you think of 'saving yourself and those who listen to
you 'without being' the filth and expulsion from the world'? To this time this
scripture is true. And in this I rejoice—yes, and I will. 'Blessed be God, I
enjoy the rebuke of Christ! O that you too may be vile, exceedingly vile, for
His sake! God forbid that you are different from generally scandalous; I almost
said universally. If any man tells you that there is a new way of following
Christ, 'he is a liar, and the truth is not in him.'"[27]
I won't be a bishop until
I'm in America
I will not be a bishop
until I am in America. As long as I'm in Europe, therefore, you have nothing to
fear.
For Walter Sellon
LONDON, February 1, 1772.
DEAR WALTER,-- You don't understand your
information well. Observe: 'I am going to America to become a bishop.' [See
letter of August 14, 1771 to Philothea Briggs.] You need to understand it in
sensu composito. ['In the agreed sense.'] I will not be a bishop until I am in
America. As long as I'm in Europe, therefore, you have nothing to fear. But as
soon as they know I'm going to land in Philadelphia, it's time to ease their
apprehensions. It is true that some of our preachers did not let me stay so long;
but I keep my old rule, Festina lente. ['Hurry slowly.']--I am, dear Walter,[28]
I had
ten times as many businesses in America as I did in my entire life
God has
taught me best from my own experience. I had ten times as many trades in
America (i.e., at intervals) as I did in my entire life. But this did not
prevent the silence of the spirit
For Miss
Helena. March
NEAR LONDON, DECEMBER 10, 1777.
You
don't understand my way of life. Although I am always in a hurry, I am never in
a hurry'; because I never do more work than I can do with perfect calmness of
mind. It is true that I travel four or five thousand miles a year. But I
usually travel alone in my carriage, and consequently I am as retired ten hours
a day as if I were in a desert. On other days, I never spend less than three
hours (often ten or twelve) alone. Therefore, there are few people in the
kingdom who spend so many hours isolated from the whole company. Still, I find
time to visit the sick and the poor; and I must do so, if I believe the Bible,
if I believe these are the signs by which the Shepherd of Israel will know and
judge His sheep in the great day; Therefore, when there is time and opportunity
for it, who can doubt it but it is a matter of absolute duty? When I was at
Oxford and lived almost as a hermit, I did not see how any busy man could be
saved. I scarcely thought it possible for a man to maintain the Christian
spirit amid the noise and bustle of the world. God has taught me best from my
own experience. I had ten times as many trades in America (i.e., at intervals)
as I did in my entire life. But this did not prevent the silence of the spirit.
Mr.
Boehm [See letter of August 31, 1772 to Philothea Briggs.] was chaplain to
Prince George of Denmark, secretary to him and Queen Anne, chief manager of
almost all the public charities of the realm, and employed in numerous private
institutions. A close friend, knowing this, said to him when they were alone,
'Sir, aren't you hurt by this incredible rush of business? I have seen you in
your office, surrounded by people, listening to one, dictating to another, and
at the same time writing to a third; could you then maintain a sense of God's
presence? He replied, 'All that company and all that business did not hinder or
diminish my communion with God any more than if I were alone in a church,
kneeling before the communion table.' Wasn't it the same with him, to whom
Gregory Lopez said, 'Go and be a hermit in Mexico'? I'm worried about you; I am
sorry that you are content with lower degrees of usefulness and holiness than
what you are called to have. But I cannot help it: so I submit; and I still am,
my dear Miss Helena. March,
Yours
with sincere affection.[29]
Eames
Emigrated to America
It is a
great blessing that God has looked upon you in a strange land, [Eames emigrated
to America. see the letter of July 15, 1789 to him.] and has given you food to
eat and clothes to wear, but still greater than He has given you to eat of that
bread which the world knows not
To Henry Eames
LEEDS, August 3, 1772.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- It is a great blessing
that God has looked upon you in a strange land, [Eames emigrated to America.
see the letter of July 15, 1789 to him.] and has given you food to eat and
clothes to wear, but even greater than He has given you to eat of that bread
which the world knows not. You also have the invaluable advantage of having
escorts on the way. I suppose you entered the Society as soon as one was
formed, and that you never willingly neglected any opportunity of meeting your
brethren. Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your strength. Beware of
spiritual laziness; beware of negligence and lack of spirit. 'The kingdom of
heaven suffers violence.' See that you are one of those violent ones who 'take
it by force.'--I am[30].
It's
time to embark for America
Let you
choose, George, on the great American continent
To
George Shadford
[End of
March] 1773.
DEAR
GEORGE,-- The time has come to embark for America. You must descend to Bristol,
where you will meet Thomas Rankin, Captain Webb, and his wife.
I let
you choose, George, on the great American continent. Publish your message under
the open sun and do all the good you can. "I am, dear George,
With
affection.[31]
Some ideas of going to America
I have
some ideas of going to America; But the path is still unclear. I wait until
Providence speaks more clearly on one side or the other
To Lady Maxwell
LONDON,
February 17, 1770.
MY
DEAREST MALADY,-- To us, it may seem that uninterrupted health would be a
greater help than pain or sickness. But here we are certainly mistaken; We are
not so good judges in our own cause. You can really say, 'Health I will have if
health is better.' But in this and in all things you can trust the One who
loves you. In fact, nervous disorders are, of all others, as observed, enemies
of the joy of faith. But the essence of it, this trust in a loving and
forgiving God, they can neither destroy nor harm. No, just as they keep you
dead to everyone down there, they can lead you there, and they can increase
your sincerity after that pure love that turns the earth into paradise.
It will
be with a lot of effort and patience that you will keep someone firm in high
life, in the simple and old way. I would like you to talk to her as often as
possible. So I trust that God will use you to keep alive the fire He has
kindled. I have high hopes that the chapel will be useful; But it will not be
easy to get a converted clergyman. A master will be easier to find; although
many here are frightened by the name of Scotland. A dedicated teacher can take
care of twenty or perhaps thirty children. If someone I have seen recently is
willing to come, I believe he will respond to your plan.
Now let
your heart flow with love,
And all
his life may His glory be shown!
--I am,
my dear lady, Your ever-affectionate servant.[32]
Let
Brother Shadford, Asbury, and you go hand in hand, and who can oppose you?
That's
why you're sent. Let Brother Shadford, Asbury, and you go hand in hand, and who
can oppose you? Why, you are enough, trusting in the one who loves you, to turn
America around. Go in his name and in the power of his power, and all his
enemies will be counted liars
To Thomas Rankin
LONDON,
December 4, 1773.
DEAR
TOMMY,--Captain Webb does not lie on purpose, but speaks recklessly; so that we
must give great consideration to this whenever he speaks, otherwise we shall be
deceived. But where is he now, and what is he doing? I'm afraid his wife needs
patience.
If you
allow someone to remain a leader who does not remain in the Society, it will be
your fault. Unsuitable leaders should not be tolerated by any charge. You must
also deal honestly with the Societies, whether they want to listen or abstain.
Just don't continually tell them 'You're dead', as this will surely make them
so. Strive to nourish their hope by speaking firmly and, at the same time,
joyfully. Urge them to look for better days —yes, such as they have never seen
until now.
I
believe George Shadford will do well in New York. Robert Williams also for a
while.
You have
hurt yourself by giving in to reason, and if you do not take care of yourself,
you will hurt others. There was much good done in America, and it would have
been much more if Brother Boardman and Pilmoor had continued to be genuine
Methodists, both in doctrine and in discipline. It is their role to provide
what was lacking in them. That's why you're sent. Let Brother Shadford,
Asbury, and you go hand in hand, and who can oppose you? Why, you are enough,
trusting in the one who loves you, to turn America around. Go in his name and
in the power of his power, and all his enemies will be counted liars.
Read
David Brainerd again and see his pattern! He was a good soldier of Jesus. Ah!
but first he suffered, and then he saw the fruit of his labor. Go and do the same!
I wrote
to Robert Williams and gave him permission to print the Notes on my account;
Nothing alone. I didn't know he did it until later.
Be
brave! Strengthen yourself in the Lord, and you will see good days and send
better tidings to, dear Tommy, your affectionate friend and brother.[33]
There is
a clear account of everything concerning late ordination. [For America.]
In the
minutes of the Conference, as well as in the magazine, there is a clear account
of everything that pertains to late ordination. [For America.]
To John Bredin
LONDON, November 16, 1785.
MY DEAR BROTHER, - I hope James Rogers will
strive on behalf of G. Penington and...; that you should send me a specific
report of the... I will give you ten pounds, and hope to get a little more in
London, and I advise Molly Penington [See letters of September 16, 1780, and
April 20, 1787.] to write to Miss Penington. March. I trust that God will... It
will be my responsibility to replace her books.
You must not expect much health [See letters
of November 30, 1781 and June 1, 1789 to him.] on this side the grave; it is
enough that His grace is sufficient for you. In the minutes of the Conference,
as well as in the magazine, there is a clear account of everything that
pertains to late ordination. [For America.] It is a miracle that the
members of the High Church are so silent; surely the ruler of God is in his
mouth. Whatever you think is suitable for the magazine, send it. You can
compose a lot on one sheet. - I'm
Your affectionate brother.
[On the letter-keeping page above appears the
following, in Wesley's handwriting:][34]
It is very likely that your
desire to go to America comes from God
It is very likely that your
desire to go to America comes from God. If you are, you can most likely (if
you're single) go with Dr. Coke late next summer
For Matthew Stuart
LONDON, November 16, 1785.
My dear brother, - It is very likely that
your desire to go to America comes from God. If it is, you can most likely (if
you're single) go with Dr. Coke late next summer. - I'm
Your affectionate brother.[35]
My appeal to America is
still unclear
My
appeal to America is still unclear. [See letters of December 14, 1770 and
August 14, 1771 (to Philothea Briggs).] I have nothing to do with it as long as
they can be without me. I am now indebted to the people of England and Ireland,
and especially to those who believe.
For Miss
Helena. March
DUBLIN,
July 13, 1771.
As long
as we dwell in a house of clay, it can affect the mind; sometimes dulling or
darkening the understanding, and sometimes more directly deadening and
depressing the soul, sinking it into anguish and sorrow. In this state, doubt
or fear of one kind or another will naturally arise. And the prince of this
world, who well knows what we are made of, will not fail to improve the
occasion, to disturb, though he cannot defile, the heart which God has cleansed
from all unrighteousness.
I
rejoice with you in regard to poor Martin Madan. [See the reference to his
mother in Wesley, ii. of Tyerman. 284.] People who are extremely loyal to their
parents rarely fail to receive a reward, even in today's world.
My
appeal to America is still unclear. [See letters of December 14, 1770 and
August 14, 1771 (to Philothea Briggs).] I have nothing to do with it as long as
they can be without me. I am now indebted to the people of England and Ireland,
and especially to those who believe.
You have
a delicate role to play in relation to Philadelphia. [See the previous letter
and the one dated September 13.] There are so many serious defects in her
natural temperament that it will require much grace to make her thoroughly
Christian; neither of the two graces will shine in her as she would in others.
You must carefully encourage what is of God in her, and tenderly rebuke what is
of nature. I fear for P--D-- , [Damaris Perronet.] lest she be less zealous for
good deeds than she was before. I doubt she has little incentive to do so at
the moment.
In the
13th of [the First of] Corinthians you have the height and depth of true
perfection; and it is observable that St. Paul speaks all the time about the
love of our neighbor, which actually flows from the love of God. Mr. De Renty
is an excellent pattern of this. But many things in your fellowship with God
will not be explained until the Holy Spirit explains them by writing them on
your heart. This darkness that often clouded their understanding I consider
something quite supernatural. I believe that the spirit of darkness spreads a
mist over your mind, as far as is permitted; and that the best remedy is simply
to look to God, and the cloud will flee in His presence.--I am, etc.[36]
So far,
I don't have to think about my going to America
If you
find any comfort or help in this, keep writing, without any reason on the
subject. So far, I don't have to think about my going to America. I have a few
more deals to settle in Europe
To
Philothea Briggs
O FENO, August 14, 1771.
MY DEAR
PHILLY,-- If you find any comfort or help in this, keep writing, without any
reason on the subject. So far, I need not think about my going to America [See
the letters of July 13, 1771 (to Miss Helena). March) and February 1, 1772.]; I
have a few more deals to settle in Europe. The various ideas and suggestions
you mention are exactly the ones that anyone with a vivid imagination can
expect. Satan also knows very well what we are made of, and he always attacks
us from the weak side. But these and a thousand clouds passing over your mind
prove nothing as to the state of your heart: see that it be dedicated to Him,
and that is enough. You have given it to Him: stand firm in your gift. However,
then, your imagination may be affected, you will have the testimony of a good
conscience towards God. Not but that they may supplicate this promise, 'The
peace of God shall guard their hearts and minds by Christ Jesus.' Just as the
first word encompasses all his passions, the second also encompasses all the mechanisms
of his reason and imagination. Pray, therefore, and seek the answer to your
prayer. It will come, and it won't be long! You did well to let go of that
little idol. You can fast on Fridays by reducing the amount of breakfast or
dinner a little. Do all the good you can for Miss Helena. Lambert. Peace be
with all your spirits-- I am, my dear Philly,
With affection.
Soon I
will be in Bristol.[37]
There
are only three Methodist Societies in America
There
are only three Methodist Societies in America: one in Philadelphia, one in New
York, and one twelve miles from it. There are five preachers there; two have
been in New York for a few years. Three have been recently revised
To Professor John Liden of Lund
LONDON, November 16, 1769.
Answering these questions thoroughly would
require volume. It is partly done in the little pamphlets: in the points where
they are defective, I will add a few words as my time permits.
1. There are many thousands of Methodists in
Great Britain and Ireland who are not formed in Societies. In fact, none are
beyond those (or rather part of those who are under Mr. Wesley's care.
Currently, these house just under thirty thousand people.
2. The places where there is constant
preaching (at least three or four times a week) are the Foundy near Moorfields,
the French Church [in West Street] near the Seven Dials (in these two places
there is preaching every morning and evening), the French Church at
Spitalfields, the Chapel at Snowsfields, Southwark, the Chapel at Wapping, and
one not far from Smithfield.
3. They have many schools for teaching
reading, writing, and arithmetic, but only one to teach the advanced parts of
learning. This is maintained at Kingswood, near Bristol, and houses about forty
scholars. All are guests, and there can be much more, but the house will not
house them. The Kingswood School Rules give an account of the books read and
the method adopted in them.
4. I believe that some of the best preachers
are James Morgan, Peter Jaco, Jos. Cownley, T. Simpson, John Hilton, John
Pawson, Alex. Mather, though. Olivers, Sam. Levick, Duncan Wright, Jacob
Rowell, Christopher Hopper, Dan. Bumstead, Alexander M'Nab, and William
Thompson. Each of these preachers has his food wherever he works, and twelve
pounds a year for clothing and other expenses. If he is married, he has ten
pounds a year for his wife. This money is raised through the voluntary
contributions of the Societies. It is through these that the poor are helped
when the subsidy fixed by the laws of the country is not sufficient. Thus the
Stewards of the Societies in London distribute seven or eight pounds weekly
among the poor.
5. Mr. Whitefield is a Calvinist, Messrs.
Wesley is not; That is the only material difference between them. And this has
continued without any variation since Mr. Whitefield adopted these views. The
consequences of this difference are mentioned in the letter sent two or three
years ago to the people mentioned in it.
6. There are only three Methodist Societies
in America: one in Philadelphia, one in New York, and one twelve miles from it.
There are five preachers there; two have been in New York for a few years.
Three were recently revised. Mr. Whitefield published a private account of
everything connected with the Orphans' Home [in Georgia].
7. The most eminent writers against the
Methodists are the late Bishop of London (Dr. Gibson), Dr. Church, the Bishop
of Gloucester (Dr. Warburton), and Bishop Lavington. Bishops Gibson and
Lavington were fully convinced of the error before they died. I believe Dr.
Church was like that too. None, I think, but Mr. Perronet wrote to the
Methodists.
8. No Moravian belongs to his Societies. They
have no significant settlements in England, except in London, Bedford, and
Pudsey, a small town near Leeds in Yorkshire. They make a deep secret of
everything related to their community. What I know about them I have already
published in the periodicals. The Earl's house in Chelsea is a palace for a
prince. Indeed, they are wise in their generation.[38]
Brother Asbury and you will
be friends of separation
I doubt
not, but Brother Asbury and you will be friends of separation: I hope to see
you at the Conference. He is a very upstanding man. I'm afraid he'll do the job
more happily when he's a certain distance away from me.
To
Thomas Rankin, in America
BALLINROBE,
May 19, 1775.
DEAR
TOMMY,-- That letters travel very slowly from us to America is a great
nuisance. But it is even greater that they travel with so much uncertainty;
sometimes arriving too late, sometimes not even arriving.
I doubt
not, but Brother Asbury and you will be friends of separation: I hope to see
you at the Conference. He is a very upstanding man. I'm afraid he'll do the job
more happily when he's a certain distance away from me.
We must
speak the plain truth wherever we are, whether men hear or abstain. And among
our Societies we must impose our Rules with all calmness and firmness. At first
this must seem strange to those who are like oxen and are not accustomed to the
yoke. But in time, all this desire to be true Christians sees the advantage of
this.
I am
afraid that Mr. B--- is a weak brother, a little enlightened in his
understanding and with a kind of faith. But I would rather be in the case of
poor T--- R--- than his. I think he is more likely to be a true Christian than
the others.
There
has never been a time when it was more necessary for all who fear God, in
England as well as in America, to awaken the gift of God that is in them, and
to wrestle with God in mighty prayer. In all other judgments of God, the
inhabitants of the earth learn justice. When a land is visited by famine,
plague, or earthquake, people commonly see and recognize God's hand. But
wherever war breaks out, God is forgotten, if he is not placed in open
defiance. What a glorious work of God was in Cambuslang and Kilsyth from 1740
to 1744! But the war that followed nipped everything in the bud and left almost
no trace behind; so much so that when I diligently inquired a few years later,
I could not find any who would maintain the life of God--I am, my dear Tommy,
Your
affectionate friend and brother.[39]
Never
has America had such a great call to repentance
My
brother wrote to me saying that he had received a copy of the tract you wrote.
Something like this can be very suitable. Never has America had such a great
call to repentance. For unless the general reformation prevents general
destruction, that scene will soon be opened in Ruin and desolation will soon
spread over the land and the houses of beauty will be turned into heaps of
ruins.
To
Thomas Rankin
CLONMAIN,
NEAR ARMAGH, JUNE 13, 1775.
DEAR
TOMMY,--I am afraid that our correspondence for the future will be more
uncertain than ever, since the sword has been drawn; and it is better that they
have not thrown away the hem on either side. What will be the end of these
things, whether in Europe or America? There seems to be great confusion and
suffering, as if neither we nor our parents knew about it. But it is enough
that everything be in glory to God, peace and good will among men.
I'm
sorry for poor T--- R---. I hoped that God had completely healed his setback,
and lifted his head so that he would not fall any more. But the case is not yet
hopeless; You should not in any way give it away. Rarely have I met a habitual
drunkard finally recover before he has relapsed more than once or twice. Your
point is: first save him from the occasions of sin, then urge him not to take
away hope. Nothing but that, the desperation to conquer, can utterly destroy
him. As long as he retains the faintest hope, he will fight against sin.
Should
you not appoint in America (as we do in England and Ireland) one or more
general days of fasting and prayer—I am, dear Tommy,
Your
affectionate friend and brother.[40]
Glorious
Work in America
A
glorious work, indeed, God has been at work for several years and is still at
work in America
To Francis Asbury
LONDON,
November 25, 1787.
MY DEAR
BROTHER, -- A glorious work, indeed, God has been working for several years and
is still at work in America. But one thing has often worried me: God is
visiting the offspring of Japheth (the English), who now inhabit the tents of
Shem, according to Noah's prophecy. No, he has
The
slavish offspring of Ham.
Take
hold as a purchase of His blood.
But in
the meantime the descent of Shem (the Indians) seems to be quite forgotten. How
few of them have seen the light of God's glory since the English settled among
them! And now only one in fifty among whom we have settled, perhaps one in a
hundred, is left alive! Doesn't it seem that God designed all the indigenous
nations not for reformation, but for destruction? How many millions of them (in
South and North America) have died in their sins! Will neither God nor man have
compassion for these outcasts of men? Of course, it is impossible to help them
with man. But is it too hard for God? Oh, that He would arise and keep up His
own cause! that He would first stir the hearts of some of His children to make
the conversion of these heathen also a cause for solemn prayer! And then
Eternal
providence, overcoming thought,
When it
doesn't, it's going to work out one way.
Pray
also to the Lord of the harvest, and He will send more workers into His
harvest. But be careful, don't hold grudges two out of a hundred brothers to
help your brothers in the north. [In Nova Scotia.] We just send two to you,
considering the huge cost. But let all of us do what we can, and we do enough.
And see that no shyness or coldness ever creeps between you and
Your
affectionate friend and brother.
To the
Reverend Mr. Asbury, at the home of Mr. Wells, Merchant,
No. 11,
near the Exchange, Chariestown, South Carolina.
To be
preserved carefully until your arrival.[41]
Obey the
'Powers That Be' in America
I wish
you to obey the 'Powers That Be' in America; but I want you to understand them
too. I firmly believe that Brother Dunn will respond to your expectation. The
tyrants of that house unfortunately want someone to ignore them; And he will do
it both wisely and tenderly
For Dr.
Coke
BRISTOL,
September 5, 1789.
DEAR
LORD, -- Upon serious reflection, I doubt whether it is not more suitable for
you to go west than north. I believe it would be better to depart from London,
to find myself here about Monday or Tuesday, a fortnight, on my way to
Cornwall. Then you can give a sermon to Brother Dobson (to whom, my love) on
West Street to the poor children. [See letter of February 21, 1786.]
Your
affectionate friend and brother.[42]
Surprised
to receive some letters from Mr. Asbury
I was a
little surprised to receive some letters from Mr. Asbury stating that no one in
Europe knew how to direct those in America. Soon after, he flatly refused to
receive Mr. Whatcoat in the character I sent him. He said to George Shadford,
'Mr. Wesley and I are like Caesar and Pompey: he will have no equal, and I will
have no superior.'
To Mr.-----
LONDON, October 31, 1789.
I was a
little surprised to receive some letters from Mr. Asbury stating that no one in
Europe knew how to direct those in America. Soon after, he flatly refused to
receive Mr. Whatcoat in the character I sent him. He said to George Shadford,
'Mr. Wesley and I are like Caesar and Pompey: he will have no equal, and I will
have no superior.' And so he kept quiet until his friends voted my name out of
the American Acts. This ended the situation and showed that he had no
connection with me.[43]
The
Greatest Danger to God's Work in America
I do not
wish our American brethren to receive anyone who has difficulty receiving
Francis Asbury as Assistant General. Doubtless the greatest danger to the work
of God in America is likely to arise from preachers coming from Europe, or from
those who will arise among you speaking wicked things, or bringing among you
new doctrines, particularly Calvinism.
To Preachers in America
BRISTOL,
October 3, 1783.
DEAR
BROTHER, -- 1. May you all be determined to carry out the Methodist doctrine
and discipline published in the four volumes of Sermons and the Notes on the
New Testament, together with the Great Minutes of the Conference.
2.
Beware of preachers coming from Great Britain or Ireland without a full
recommendation from me. Three of our itinerant preachers eagerly desire to go
to America; but I could not approve of it at all, for I am not satisfied that
they thoroughly like our discipline or our doctrine. I think they differ from
our judgment in one or both. So if these or any other comes without my
recommendation, take care of how you receive them.
3. Nor
should they welcome preachers, however recommended they may be, who are not
subject to the American Conference, and who cheerfully conform to the minutes
of both the American and English Conferences.
4. I do
not wish our American brethren to receive anyone who has difficulty receiving
Francis Asbury as General Assistant. Doubtless the greatest danger to the work
of God in America is likely to arise from preachers coming from Europe, or from
those who will arise among you speaking wicked things, or bringing among you
new doctrines, particularly Calvinism. You must protect yourself from this
as carefully as possible; for it is much easier to keep them out than to drive
them out.
I
entrust you all to the grace of God; and I
Your
affectionate friend and brother.[44]
A
Request to a Bishop to Appoint Pious, Simple Pastors to America
But you
observe: 'There are already three ministers in that
country.' True, my Lord; But what are three to watch over all souls in that
vast country?
To Dr.
Lowth, Bishop of London
August
10, 1780.
Imploring
your Lordship's favor, after your Lordship had examined it, to ordain a godly
man who might act as your minister
MY
LORD,-- Some time ago, I received the favor of Your Lordship; for which I
reciprocate my sincere thanks, Your Lordship. These people did not apply for
the Society (For the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts). because they
had nothing to ask for. They did not want a salary for their minister; they
themselves were able and willing to maintain it. Wherefore, they have requested
on my part thy Lordship, as members of the Church of England, and desiring thus
to continue, imploring your Lordship's favor, after your lordship had examined
it, to ordain a godly man who might act as their minister.
They are
men who have neither the power of religion nor the form—men who claim no piety
or even decency
Maybe
it's the last time I'll bother you
Allow
me, my Lord, to speak even more freely: it may be the last time I shall disturb
you. I know your Lordship's abilities and vast knowledge; I believe, even more,
that your Lordship fears God. I have heard that you are exceedingly diligent in
examining candidates for Holy Orders—yes, that you are generally concerned to
examine them personally. Examining them! In what respects? Why, if they
understand a little Latin and Greek and can answer some banal questions in the
science of divinity? Alas, how little good is that! Do you examine whether they
serve Christ or Belial, whether they love God or the world, whether they have
ever had serious thoughts about heaven or hell, whether they have any real
desire to save their own souls or the souls of others? If not, what do they
have to do with Holy Orders and what will become of the souls entrusted to
their care
What is
there in a man without religion?
My Lord,
I do not in any way despise learning; I know the value of this very well. But
what is this, especially in a Christian minister, compared with godliness? What
is there in a man without religion? Like a jewel on a pig's snout.
I
recommended to you a simple man
Some
time ago, I recommended to you a simple man, whom I had known for more than
twenty years as a person of deep piety, genuine and uncritical conversation.
But he understood neither Greek nor Latin; and he affirmed, in so many words,
that he believed it was his duty to preach, whether he was ordained or not. I
also believe that. What has happened to him since then, I do not know; but I
suppose he received Presbyterian ordination, and I cannot blame him if he did.
He might think that any ordination is better than none.
Your
Lordship thought it good to order and send to America other people who knew
something of Greek and Latin, but who knew no more about saving souls than
about whaling
I do not
know whether Mr. Hoskins had any favor to ask of the Society. He asked your
Lordship's favor to ordain him so that he could minister to a small flock in
America. But your Lordship did not see well in ordering it; but your Lordship
thought it good to order and send to America other people who knew something of
Greek and Latin, but who knew no more about saving souls than about hunting
whales.
In this
sense, I also feel sorry for poor America, for the sheep scattered inside
In this
sense, I also feel sorry for poor America, for the sheep scattered inside. Some
of them have no pastors, especially in the northern colonies; and the case of
the rest is little better, for their own pastors have no pity on them. They
cannot1; for they have no pity on themselves. They don't think or care about
their own souls.
Wishing
Your Lordship all the blessings of the great Shepherd and Bishop of souls, I
remain, my Lord,
Your Lordship's son and
devoted servant.[45]
A
comfortable account of the rapid and extensive progress of God's work in
America
Two or
three weeks ago I had the pleasure of receiving a letter from you dated August
23, 1789, which gives me a comfortable account of the rapid and extensive
progress of God's work in America
For Garrettson Free
LONDON,
February 3, 1790.
MY DEAR
BROTHER, -- Two or three weeks ago I had the pleasure of receiving a letter
from you dated August 23, 1789, which gives me a comfortable account of the
rapid and extensive progress of God's work in America. You also informed me
that you had written an account of your life, and commanded that it be sent to
me; and I've been waiting for it day after day ever since, but now I've almost
given up on my expectation; For unless it comes soon, it will hardly reach me
in the present world. You see, time has shaken me by the hand, and death is not
far away. As long as we live, let us labor the work of our Lord at various
times; and in His time He will give us all our reward. -- I am
Your
affectionate friend and brother.[46]
Very
Pleasant Account of the Progress of the Gospel in America
You have
given me a very pleasant account of the progress of the gospel in America. One
would expect the time to draw near when the earth would be filled with the
knowledge of the glory of the Lord
For Thomas Morrell
LONDON,
February 4, 1790.
MY DEAR
BROTHER, -- You have given me a very pleasant account of the progress of the
gospel in America. One would expect the time to draw near when the earth would
be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord. Indeed, the incredible
revolutions that took place in Europe [The Estates-General met on May 5, 1789.
The Bastille was destroyed on 14 July, and the royal family was arrested on 5
October. See March letter to William Black.] seem to be the forerunners of the
same great event. It is true that the poor infidels who know nothing of God,
have no such intention or thought. But the Lord is seated above the floods, the
Lord remains king forever. In the meantime, it is expedient that Methodists in
all parts of the world should be united as closely as possible. May we all be
one is the prayer of
Your
affectionate friend and brother.
I have
seen nothing of Brother Garrettson's letter. [This probably refers to a letter
with his Diary, which sank along with the ship that carried it. See Garrettson
de Bangs, p. 176; and previous letter.][47]
A
Connected Relation of What Our Lord Has Done in America
I gave a
distinct account of God's work that has been carried on in Britain and Ireland
for more than half a century. We want some of you to give us a connected
account of what our Lord has done in America since the time Richard Boardman
accepted the invitation and left his country to serve him.
To Ezekiel Cooper from
Philadelphia
NEAR
LONDON, FEBRUARY 1, 1791.
MY DEAR
BROTHER, -- Those who wish to write or say something to me have no time to
lose; for time has shaken me by the hand and death is not far off. But I have
reason to be grateful for the time that has passed: I have felt few of the
infirmities of old age for eighty-six years. It was only a year and a half ago
that my strength and my vision failed. And yet I can doodle a little and drag
myself, even though I can't run. I probably shouldn't be able to do so much if
many of you didn't help me with your prayers.
Though
mountains rise and oceans roll,
To part
us in vain.
To the
care of our common Lord I entrust you; and I
Your
affectionate friend and brother.[48]
[1]Overview of Google's AI
Mode
[2]Overview of Google's AI
Mode
[3]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1786/
[4]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1790/
[5]Overview of Google's AI
Mode
[6]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/
[7]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/
[8]Overview of Google's AI
Mode
[9]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1788/
[10]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1785/
[11]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/
[12]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1787/
[13]Overview
of Google's AI Mode
[14]Overview
of Google's AI Mode
[15]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/
[16]Overview
of Google's AI Mode
[17]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/
[18]Overview
of Google's AI Mode
[19]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1788/
[20]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1788/
[21]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1786/
[22]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1786/
[23]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1782/
[24]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1777/
[25]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1782/
[26]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772a/
[27]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1739/
[28]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/
[29]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1777/
[30]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/
[31]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/
[32]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/
[33]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/
[34]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1785/
[35]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1785/
[36]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1771/
[37]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1771/
[38]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1769/
[39]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/
[40]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/
[41]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1787/
[42]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789/
[43]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789/
[44]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/
[45]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1780/
[46]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1790/
[47]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1790/
[48]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1791/
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