The first paper is a dialogue of 'various powers and affections of the mind' which I think is another way of saying a group of religious thoughts loosely connected to one another.
The second paper is a short list of reasons why Brainerd is such a terrible sinner.
The third papers is a list of signs of godliness.
Then the rest of today's reading is made up of the sermon preached by E. Pemberton at Barinerd's ordination. It is on Luke 14:23 'And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.' Pemberton has three points:
(i) the melancholy state of the Gentile world;
(ii) the compassionate care which the blessed Redeemer takes of them;
(iii) the duty of the ministers of the gospel, to "compel them to come in," and accept of his gracious invitation.
There was a solemn charge put to Brainerd toward the end, but also an encouragement to him that he is not going out alone: 'Methinks I hear you crying out, “Who is sufficient for these things?” And indeed, if you had no strength to depend upon but your own, no encouragement but from human assistance, you might justly sink down in despair, and utter the passionate language of Moses, “O my Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of him whom thou wilt send;” thy servant is insufficient for so great a work. But it is at the command of Christ, the great Head of the church, that you go forth; who by a train of surprising providences, has been preparing your way for this important embassy; and therefore you may be assured, that he will support you in the faithful discharge of your duty, accept your unfeigned desires to promote the interests of his kingdom, and finally reward your imperfect services with his gracious approbation. You have his divine promise for your security and consolation; “Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the world.” This will afford you light in every darkness, defence in every danger, strength in every weakness, and a final victory over every temptation. If Christ be with you, “in vain do the heathen rage,” in vain will their confederated tribes unite their forces to obstruct and discourage you. Infinite wisdom will be your guide, almighty power your shield, and God himself “your exceeding great reward.” The presence of your divine Master will make amends for the absence of your dearest friends and relatives. This will transform a wild and uncultivated desert into a paradise of joy and pleasure, and the lonely huts of savages into more delightful habitations than the palaces of princes.'
Wonderful to remember that the Lord is with his ministers in all their trials and difficulties.
Next week's reading
Read 'Some reflections and observations on the preceding memoirs'.
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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