Pd

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RE

FARE

PRIN

MEMOIR

OF THE

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS.

By E. LORD.

WITH

FAREWELL LETTER TO THE AMERICAN PRESBYTERIAN SOCIETY OF MONTREAL,

LETTER FROM THE REV. HENRY WILKES, D.D.

aMontrent : PRINTED BY JOHN LOVELL, ST. NICHOLAS STREET.

1868.

oe “Le Po be tl ects tats 1A: why

CONTENTS.

PARENTAGE and erly years of Mr. Christmas ;—his fondness for poetry and painting;—notice of his poem, entitled The Artist, and of various compositions and translations while he was a member of Washington College, p. 10—13.

His attention drawn to the subject of religion ;—letters from Rev. Mr. Reed and Rev. Dr. Wylie, relative to that period of his life, p. 13—17.

His narrative of his religious views and feelings on becoming a member of the Church, in Wooster, Ohio, p. 17—20.

Removes to Princeton, joins, and continues, through the usual course of three years, a member of the Theological Seminary :—. brief extracts from hig journal, p. 20—25.

Notice of subjects which specially engaged his attention while

at ’rinceton ;—prayer, p. 27—-31. Character and work of the Saviour, p. 32.

His design of devoting himself to the service of the Protestant Churches in France ;—one of his letters on that subject ;—an es- say of the history and state on those Churches, and the facilities of access and usefulness to them, p. 33—46.

Receives license to preach the Gospel ;—is immediately invited to officiate in a newly organized Church in Montreal :—receives & unanimous call, and is ordained pastor of that Church, p. 47.

vi

Marriage ;—review of his abundant and successful labors in Montreal ;—notice of his tract on Repentance, No. 183 of the se- ries of the American Tract Society ;—essay and sermons on the authority and duties of the Lord’s day ;—controversy with Ca- tholic priests, &c.;—an appeal to the inhabitants of Lower Ca- nada, on the sulject of temperance ; discourse on moral inabili- ty ;—tr-ct No. 252, entitled, ‘ Mary Le Fleur,” p. 48—54.

Dissolution of his pastoral relation, on account ’'f his ill health ; —letter to the Presbytery on that ocasion ;—notice of his Fare- well Letter to his people, p. 54—58.

His voyage to New Orleans as agent of the American Bible Society in January, 1829 ;-—-death of his two children in April and May ;—rapid decline and decease of Mrs. Christmas, p. S8—= 60.

Addresses, &c., written by him for the Temperance and Tract Societies ;—his installation as pastor of the Bowery Presbyterian church ;—his sudden illness and death, March 14th, 1830, p. 61 —62.

Survey of his character ;—remarkable purity and simplicity of his mind ;—the pervading influence of his piety ;—the influence of his principles over his conduct, p. 63—71.

Particulars in which bis example was worthy of imitation :— Ist, in regard *o the leading object and purpose of his life, name- ly, to glorify God by obedience to his will, p. 72;—2nd, in his views of doing good,—the manner of exerting his agency so as both to glorify God and benefit his fellow-men, p. 78 ;—3rd, his diligence and his great and persevering efforts to accomplish what he undertook, p. 81 ;—4th, in his practice of looking for, desiring, and expecting the beneficial results of his prayers and efforts, both here and hereafter, p. 82 ;—5th, in his example as a good man, enduring severe trials and sufferings, p. 87 ;—re- flections in view of his character and history ;—allusion to the history of Carey, Fuller, Ryland, &c.—quotations from the two latter respecting Pearce, p, 89—95.

( ( i t ’

vii

s in Discourse on Christian Intercession ;—its happy effects on 2 Be- ourselves ; promotes friendship ;—is an antidote to resentment; the —greatly increases ministerial usefulness ; animates to diligence Ca- in promoting the happiness of our fellow-men ;—blessings promis- Ca- ed to intercessions for the salvation of men, p. 95—103. a Discourses respecting that inability which prevents the sinner from embracing the gospel ;—two opposite views of this subject th ; which have been held, stated; what is meant by natural ability, ‘are. and what by mora! ability; the inability which prevents a sin- ner from obeying the Gospel, wholly moral, consisting in his un- willingness ;—the distinction no less important than obvious, p. Bible 104—110. Proofs that men possess natural ability, perfectly to love \pril God and to obey the Gospel,—argued from the divine commands ; 58 — —the objection that this ability was lost in Adam, answered ;— f also the notion that though we are not able to obey, God has act ‘ promised to give strength to those who ask him ;—other objec- stank tions noticed and refuted, p. 110—123. Practical inferences ;— ». 61 ; if men have ability to obey Goc, the want of a disposition to do , so, is no excuse for disobedience ;—if they possess such ability, 2 then they are not passive in regeneration ;—and those Scriptures y of 4 which speak of repentance, faith, and love as man’s duty, are ence a easily seen to be consistent with those which speak of them as

- ia God's gift ; the destruction of those who do not obey the gospel 4 ‘ is to be attributed wholly to themselves ;—pussessing such abili- ty, it is a wicked thing in men to delay repentance on pretence of waiting for divine aid, p. 123—141.

Farewell letter to the American Presbyterian Society of Mon- treal, L. C., p. 142—179.

Letter from the Rev. Henry Wilkes, D.D., p. 180—188.

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MEMOIR.

THE subject of the following memorial, JosEpu STIBBS CrrisTMAS, was born April 10th, 1803, in Georgetown, Beaver county, Pennsylvania. His parents had thirteen children, of whom he was theeighth. His father was de- scended from an ancient family of the north of England. Having passed the early part of his life in London, he re- moved to this country and settled in Pennsylvania, in 1784. His maternal grandfather, Joseph Stibbs, likewise from London, came to this country and settled in the then co- lony of Virginia, prior to the revolution.

From his earliest years the extraordinary versability and ardor ofhis mind were displayed both in his stuties and in his more active employments. He discovered a restless spirit of inquiry into every subject to which his attention was directed, and at the same time a taste for rural scenery, au inventive and imitative turn, and a remarkable fond- ness for drawing and painting. A communication from one of his relatives states that before he was eight years old he had a room appropriated to himself, where he practised drawing maps and painting, and that he became so devoted to the use of his pencil as to subject himself to severe pri- vations, in order to indulge that propensity.

B

10 MEMOIR OF TILE

He continued to cherish this passion for painting till near the close of his terms at college ; and at one period it engrossed nearly all his time and attention, and was de- signed to be the object of his future life. He accordingly studied and wrote much on this and its kindred arts. Se- veral of his manuscripts on this subject are preserved, some treating it by way of analysis, others of criticism ; some consisting of notes and observations on the history of paint- ters and painting, and some defending the art, as a pursuit for life, against the objections of his friends and acquaint- ances. From these papers, and from some letters which were addressed to him, it appears that he continued to prac- tice this art with increasing facility and very flattering suecess; and that he was encouraged to send one of his ori- inal pieces in oil to the exhibition at Philadelphia.

In addition to this, he gave himself at’ the same time to the kindred, and, to a genius and temperament like his, no less fascinating, art of poetry. Did his papers furnish noth- ing but what remains of his first sixteen years on this sub- ject, they would suffice to show that he possessed those rare talents and qualities which fitted him to excel in whatever he undertook. He pursued with this the same method as with every other subject upon which he bestowed any con- siderable attention ; he analyzed it, studicd its history, prin- ciples, and relations, and then practised. Having once pos- sessed himself of a subject in this manner, it seemed to oc- cupy a fixed place in his mind, and to be ever ready to be used at pleasure.

As an illustration of the hold which poetry and painting had ‘gained on him, and of his success in the cultivation of them, it may suffice to mention his “ Poem in two cantos’’ entitled “ THE ARTIST ; prepared for the public contest be-

5 tee 1 gE i eS

oor,

ete!

painting till ne period it and was de- y accordingly sd arts, Se- served, some icism ; some tory of paint- , as a pursuit and acquaint- letters which inued to prac- ery flattering yne of his ort- elphia. same time to t like his, no furnish noth- s on this sub- ssed those rare bl in whatever me method as wed any con- s history, prin- ving once pos- seemed to oc- er ready to be

y and painting cultivation of n two cantos”’ blie contest be-

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Bie ae

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. 1]

tween the Union and Literary Socictics of Washington Col- lege,” (of which he was then a member, and in his sixteenth year;) “and published by the Union Society in 1819.” It was his object to vindicate the fine arts from the dispa- raging opinions then current as to their importance, and to awaken an interest in their faver. His analysis of this poem is subjoined,* from the above mentioned edition. Fragments of two other poems written at a later period, and a variety of smaller poetic compositions, remain among his papers.

His compositions and translations between his cighth and sixteeth year on the different subjects which his studies and employme:ts brought within his view are very numerous, and for the most part such as might be appealed to in proof

* “Canto I. opens with a view of the dark ages—inquires what first relieved mankind from the thraldom of superstition and igno- rance—attributes this emancipation to the fine arts—mentions some of the modern poets of Italy—Dante—Tasso—Petrarch— artists, Michael Angelo—Buonarrotti described— Da Vince—an allusion to the battle of Pisa—Raphael, his character, fame, un- timely death--Traits of Correggio, his penury, misfortune--Titian, his excellence, chiefly in coloring—Tintoret—Giorgione—Paul Veronese—characteristics of Salvator Rosa—the three Caracci, Hannibal, Agostino, Ludovico—their scholars, Guido and Domi- nichino—proceeds to the painters of France—Poussin—Le Brun —Le Seur—the sanguinary David—-Fiemish artists — Rubens, Vandyke, Rembrandt—-Prussian, Eckstein—the English school, Reynolds, Fuseli, Wilson, Barry—mentions the sources whence the painters drew their knowledge of design and correctness of contour—the antique.”

“Canto II. While the works of the learned are excluded from the view of the greater part of mankind by the veil of ignorance, the sublime conceptions of the artist are poured on every eye—

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‘Whites Mee

{Vv VEMOIR OF THE

oft the rapid progress of his mind, and the dilivence nel ardor with whieh he pursned his education, Among those of his manuseripts of that period whieh deserve partioula notiee, are the following: atranslation of Lucian’s twenty third dialowue, under date 238d January, E806 (bis thir teenth year), which is done in an easy, flowing style, and written out ina fair hand, :

A translation of part of Virgil's Pollio, and some trans lations from Greek authors,

A translation (in part) of the commentaries of Tirtius concerning the African war. This manuseript, of about forty pages, is very plainly written, and has a full title page as if intended for publication,

And of original compositions, beside some in Latin and

enumerates the various incentives in Nurope to excite the imagi

nation, and create painters and poots—-particularly the relics of antiquity and the places consecrated in the pages of history— how many advantages they possess when compared with those of America, especially the opportunity ofstudying the antique, and the assistance of such patrons as the Medici; yet America has produced abundant and superior talents for the fine arts—presents a view of West on his voyage to Rome—mentions the picture of Christ healing the sick—Stewart—anticipation that when Europe shall again be plunged in the night of barbarism, the arts may find refuge in America—Leslie—Allston—adverts to those cavil- lers who suppose that America possesses not genius—calls upon the departed great of America to deny the assertion—invokes the Americans to cherish the fine arts, to consider them as well their honor as the economy of the nation—allusion to Daniel's propheey—mention of Trumbull—to those mortals who possess no taste—describes a genuine and amiable poet or artist—the pro- gress of genius—the progress of a work of genius concludes with an apostrophe to the graphic muse.”

RE sew mn gr or

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livenee and On thoae © partioula una twenty

0 (his thir Tu atyle, and

anime trans

aot Hirtius pt, of nbout a fe full title

in Latin and

‘ite the ina - the relies of a of history— h with thoge of e antique, and America has arts—-presents the picture of t when Hurope the arts may to those cavil- is—calls upon rtion—invokes r them as well un to Daniel's Is who possess rtist—the pro- soneludes with

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nev. JOSEPH STINBS CHRISTMAS i

tireek, there are

piece dated Nov. TS16, on the Emimortality of the Soul,

ft extended rt Analysis of’ Logie,” -

and several essays on other subjects: also a Salutatory Ad LHI,

when he graduated, in which he endeavored to model the

dross on the Fine Arts, delivered in) September,

mecossive paragraphs in such aimanneras to excmplify the rules, and illustrate every part of rhetoric,

In the course of the year 1819 his attention was drawn to the subject of religion, and a total change in his views, With relation to this very interesting period, a letter has been received from his brother-in-law, Rev. James Rowland, of Mansficlds, Ohio, and likewise a letter from Rev, Andrew Wylie, D.D., then president of the college.

“Tn the summer of 1818,” says Mr. R., “when at Wash-

affections and purposes took place.

ington Colleve as professor of languayes, [ was informed by Mr. James Reek, professor of natural sciences, in a con- versation respecting the prospect of students for the winter session, that Joseph S. Christmas was about to return, and he added, he is himself a host. I had before heard of the Christmas family of Georgetown, forty miles below Pitts- burgh, but had no personal acquaintance with any mem- her of it. At the commencement of the scssion young Christmas came. Tle seemed about fifteen years of age, and was very interesting. He had been in college under Dr. Brown, and this was to be his last year. In the win- ter he practised painting, and wrote for the spring contest his first printed composition, a poem on the subject of the

Kine Arts called The Artist. At that time it was his in-

enti. “te this: Me, ee

14 VEMOIR OF TIE

tention to repair to the Aeademy of Philadelphia immedi

a EEE Es 2:

ihn

ately after leaving college, But in the eourse of the sum

Dar

mor (T1819) the death of two of his fellow students oveeur

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| red, one of whom was his partioular companion, anda great change took place in his views and purposes, Tn Septem :

bor he graduated; the first honors of the elass were, with

out any hesitation, conferred on him by the Board,

“Tn Bebruary or Mareh, T8109, T had my first conver

sation with him on religious subjects. 1 eannot nog re

late all that passed, but one thing Ewell remember his tell

ing me, namely, that when a child, reflecting on his aecoun

tability to God, he thought he would beware, and not have

PBT a ee ego

to answer for any sin until he should be seven years of age. Krom college he returned home to Georgetown, and thence : removed with the family to Wooster, Wayne county, Ohio. : There, in complianee with the wishes of his father, he eom. : meneed the study of medicine. At the same time he was abridging Claude and writing sermons, ‘There were many obstacles in the way of his entering on the study of theo

logy, owing partly to the opinions and feelings of some of

his near relatives, and partly to his pecuniary cireumstances

after the expenses of his classical education ; and it was not until the spring of 1821 that these difficulties were entirely m4

removed.”

Rey. Dr. Wylie, after referring to the circumstances of his first acquaintance with Mr. Christmas, at Washington College, says, “* He soon attracted my particular attention, and, indeed, it was hardly possible not to feel an interest in him at the first view. The soft tones of his voice, the regularity of his features, the peculiarly mild expression of his countenance, joined to the infantine simplicity of his whole manner, led me to expect something delicate but not

iv immedi f the sum lenta oeeur anda great In Septem were, with ard,

lirat conver Hot naw 1 her his tell his aceoun ind not have voars of ave. and thenee minty, Ohio, her, he eom- time he was re were many udy of theo bof some of renstanees idk it was not vere entirely

lmstances of Washington ar attention, | an interest is voice, the

»xpression of

licity of his icate but not

esl Bi 5 Bae gt TS eA?

Mir

REV, JOSEPH STINKS CHRISTMAS, 1

strong in the character of hisimind. LT was soon induced to change, in some degree, the opinion of his intellectual sharacter, which the impression made by his personal ap pearance had led me to form, Efe soon rose to a high standing in hisclass, though painting, of which at that time he was excessively fond, drew off much of his attention On this subject [ often expos I found he had,

as most young people of a lively fancy are apt todo, sketch

from his regular studies, tulated with him in private, but in vain.

ed out a plan of life for himself, in which the determination to go to Italy for the purpose of gratifying and improving his taste for painting, held a prominent place. The indul vence of such thoughts was likely to prove injurious to him, His emphatic reply was, ‘As soon might a tender mother abandon her nursing child.’ T said no more to him on the subject. During the last year, however, he did abandon such thoughts ; for

and he was exhorted to lay them aside.

his mind had become deeply engaged in something which he felt to be vastly more important religion.

“ The evidences of Christianity which were presented to the class in the course of a few lectures in an imperfect, but simple and affectionate manner, as a subject on which they ought to come without delay to some practical deter- mination, furnished the occasion of his seriousness, and his change of views as to the whole business of life. I do not know whether he communicated anything on the state of his mind while undergoing this change to any one except myself, and to me not much, or frequently. He was natur- uly modest and reserved, and was counselled, on the subject which he then felt to be a matter of deep personal concern, neither to seek nor to depend much on the directions of men, but to go to God by prayer and daily consultation of

a

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2 SENT 9 memes ten

16 MEMOIR OF THE

His holy word. In this I have reason to believe he was much engaged, He did not, at any time during the progress of his early experience, seem to be under the in- fluence of strong terrors; but was deeply and awfully im- pressed with a sense of the importance of religion. And when he obtained satisfactory discoveries of the way of salvation as made known in the gospel, he seemed to be brought in a manner suited to the native gentleness of his character, to the state of mind which Peter expressed when he said, ‘ Lord, to whom should we go but uato thee, thou hast the words of eternal life.” At the same time, with the heartfelt satisfaction which he experienced in trusting his own soul to the hands of Jesus, arose a strong desire to point him out to others as the Lamb of God who taketh away the sins of the world. Under the influence of this desire he sought an introduction into the office of the Christian ministry, and though difficulties were presented, Providence at length cleared up the way.”

After he had relinquished the study of medicine and determined to prepare for the duties of the sacred office, in a letter to a friend from whom he solicited some assis- tance, having mentioned the struggle he had had in relation to this change of pursuits, he says, “‘ I might with propriety say with Jeremiah, that the word of the Lord was in my heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay.”’

It was not long after this period that he applied for ad- nission, and was received into the Presbyterian Church in Wooster. Through one of his relatives the narrative of his religious experience, which he drew up and presented on that occasian, has been received, from the Rev. Thomas Barr, pastor of that church, who on inclosing it writes as

eve he was during the ler the in- wfully im- yion. And the way of med to be eness of his ressed when ) thee, thou time, with in trusting ng desire to who taketh nce of this fice of the p presented,

dicine and ered office, some assis- 1 in relation h propriety Was In my and I was

ied for ad- Church in arrative of presented bv. Thomas writes as

Os det in

Pees ia Ea 7 eo eres 7

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Hag 36 tactical ne = UNCe See ee

Peas ogi = Pee

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. je

fullows: ‘“ Dear sir, understanding that some sketches of the life of your late endeared and most estimable relative, Rev. J. S. Christmas, are about to be published, as it may be a valuable acquisition to the writer of his memoirs, I inclose the written exhibition by his own hand, which he laid before the session of Wooster church, at the time he was cordially received to membership. He was received the next sabbath, I think, after the date of his narrative. I had intended to preserve for my own use this now pre- cious relic of his memory ; but under existing circumstances should feel guilty in withholding it.”

The following is a copy of this narrative. was now a little over eighteen years of age.

The writer

© Woosrer, Saturpay, MAy 5, 1821. “ To the Session of the Church.

‘Tn narrating the dealings of God with my soul, I have first to state that the kingdom of heaven came not with observation ; that it has always been a subject of regret that the exercises of my mind were not more distinctly marked like those of many Christians who have had well defined seasons of conviction, succeeded by a state of life and joy. But though I cannot ascertain the precise time of my regeneration, yet many particulars relating to my conversion or turning to God, can be zecollected. About twenty months since I was actuated, I know of no exciting cause in particular, partly by the powerful preaching, and partly by the reading of the word and some providences of God, to some concern with regard to my immortal interests ; but I know of no extraordinary exercise of mine then, of no very fearful apprehensions of the wrath to come, or sudden manifestation of the glory of God in the face of

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Voene ONytet Vint Vow abet Ohba Cite cree dined ad Many preparatory Crathe of wditely Pwega Belin foenant Wely ve Wy the died at tlre Tate ebatl ney Moety tre pened i thea That the earnal Weare fe onmity moatneb Chad that i be Wat anhyood fe te Taw of Chol qedttien Grelenel cage Dee Ctra Thay wl ag fe tye Meh) ovat plone Cal Chat we nied We Dory monty tat wwe die all Tey tea tinee enneti edd eedes Thor of ee Taw that CMetet lava meenmed (he enpean af Hh Taw i ow ete aid apened: apa new nnd Tdi wy Wyowlveh we may lave aoe) to tlie Mather Trea bean The divty of prayer, and de ociine the evileneod of annedti Aeation, and onidivally éy hope conearniing my good eatate Looking back upon thie period, (hath Pane aany things Plaiy wow. whieh were obeepe then, and lave teen fanelt some things elywe whiel To davew not die. ane Thoneh then wor very amy dperfbetiona day walk, vet Tethink Dean diseawer eotie of (he Coeble beatiadinad of evaee Te this atate PE oeontinied: eome monthea, wither anv sensible prvgress, and then, alae th every Chine Tike re Yaron eafiyed a orrvdial and fatal deelenaion. hia nroge {ram too faitiay an ivtertoupree with éle world, Che wane of Christian fellowship, and ‘he negleet of the meana of ered When Tsay ft are Chom titereourse with the world, Ne Tomean that these exeited the unsubdied aammality of ww heart. When U strayed from God, how over, he craciousty hedged upiny way. And PT pive this my testimony that such declension has panes under whieh its subjests smart. At this time Tlost the form: of podli moss and though vy mind was disturbod with the conti mral recurrence of remorse, vet T could sometimes sit alto- gothor indiforent and wnmoved under the preaching of the word. T shall pass over this gloomy season of darkness

Than ee Toren i fevatitteet (that thd ny tie Ceent Vtowe mone Ved verter ite yep if Hivdtnr wang Wow Hogan aifannet wil eatate ayy Uitare have Trou dren, nel wey well, Hinde of nea, Wit Terned Wo The ore hia Npoae the wane emenna of rowith the wnanbilted (od, how vive this der whieh rofl yodli the eonth va sit alto-

ving of the

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mhY HOM RPT Be COOPPE Pe AY ry

whieh Toeted abet oduht qicnthe, ofthat nmarectincwe ty

conlone eomutetiona of bawing ecneibbecd the conpecrdoreabl eh af ny many whale fa be reetoredd bo beh ebak wf 4 coneilintion and teanquillify whieh Penjayed when th conde of the Bard ehone ipenteg head Pb ther thonahe Hietallny freer ee perionoe of the Dard goudness are oo Nnedon: bat ednee Plinge heen reeacerad P think diffe rontly. Phere are not oenting tnetanecs of the belterer lone nnd priegone defeetion , nearean Pose nny thing on eonmeietont with the reign of gence, far Cad te permit the holiever to fallinte ened) defection einee dt benehes bine more complete orelinnee an GQad'a power to preserve bin Fron filling, and hia need of preston watehfulnedw in Futana te minke hia ealling and eleetion sure, to mdd te his faith virtae to virtie knowledge, &e The way waa naw open for my restoration, and Cliristion conversation vas preparing me hat that whieh P think first led to repentance, and ta seek reconeilintion carefully with fears, was a sermon preached hy Meo To) Pityhes and Prom thet time to this DP hope Ihave been growing in the knowledge of oar Lord ond Saviour Jesus Christ, and observing my interest in hie righteousness snd mediation become more and more clear One losson in particnlar L have been taught of late, to live hy fnith and not hy SOT Ie, before this, whenever engaged incommunion with God, if T felt a want of life and of th. spirit of devotion, and enjoyed not the apecial presence r,4 (lod, Twas instantly ready to question my lot and part with his people, and to doubt his love; and though sach HcansiOns Now vrieve, if feel more assured that though he lorve me for a short time, yet with great mercies he will gathor me. My views of sin are far different frorm what they once were, and what most opened my eyes to its enor

ERNE Es

a Ra NNN te

\) VMN cee PUED

haty, Was the viewstowa eufloringa foe cb whieh God inthiet

Od oon tia Sono the eroga, E have cblivently and prayer

Hally examined: myaoll by all the tratta of the Chetetion

Otaraetor, and bowdoht God a there were any hidden oval

mony teat, Chat he would alow th me, and afterall bam

led to eonelido Civarably of ay eatate, and to bolieve Ghat

(rod Nas ronewed my heart, pardoned my eina, given me the

put oF adoption, and bestowed joy and poneo in believing for Christ sake. Dat atill Te tlad) aclaw that) when would do oood, evilia pregent with mes Corb delight in

the Taw of God after the daward ming bat 2b eee another

Daw In my Mombors, warring againet Che law of iy nine , Wal begin ine inte oaptivity tothe law of ain whieh is

omy tnhombors, Of awretehod man that Tam! whoo shall deliver me trom the body of this doath ? TP thank God, through Fosus Cheist our Lord. While TE seek the privi

loge af communion with the sainta, PE foel that damn the

loast ofall saints) yet beoanse Christ has shown me morey, 1 desire that his people may be my people, and: their God my God, Prom: this very brief and taporfoot and, bE think, t stneere statomont of the dealings of God with mo, Lb hope that the Session may fool disposed to oxtond tome the pri Viloge of communion; and may God) suporintend their ; deliberations and direet their decision. i

Josspu S. Curistaas,”

Heo now ahnost immediately proeeoded to Princeton, ; and became a meombor of the theological sominary. There 4

remain among his papors two printed numbers of an Mssay on Pubhe Preaching, which were written by him, and pub- lished at Wooster, in the “ Ohio Spectator,” under. the signature of duvenis, in Decomber, 1819; that is, shortly

dod drthiot mn prayer he C'Tetation Nicklin evil Norall, bam lotiower Cheat viven me the vin believing wt when T odlelioht in Hoo nnmother Hany mind, ain Which is 1! who shall thank God, ho the privt MoT oat the MO MOErEy, l their (tod md, LE think, Wie, | hope me tho pri- vtoma there

IST MAS,”

Prineeton, ry. There fan Kssay ny and pub- under the , is, shortly

HEV. JOSRVH ATTN CIAL WAS ‘|

after die deft college, ‘Phe following are extents Pron the fire number, whieh troate of the inportonce, necouity vn diffiouity of public pronohiny, After epouking of the necessity of an diving revelation for the ineteaction wad vas dance of inankind, he saya, We shonid be inelined t think that a revelation #o important nnd nocosury, wm reve

lation from God, would) be eagerly desired sod embraced [ut our exporienes is vastly the reverse, This very reve lation tella ua that we “love darkness rather than light

(od was well aware of this surprising faet, Te haa taken the moat effectual moana to countsrnct the porversity, bbe has multipliod preachers in every me, Prom Knoch the proachor of righteousness, to his gospel ministers at thie day; has never suffered an intermission in this extensive plan; has added miracles to strike; hos given tine pon line, and precept upon precept; has prescribed ordinances and ceremonios ; has set apart tines for the special cones deration of his truths and the worsh’p off himself, and above all, bias added to these means the effusions of hie Holy Spirit. One solitary, though it were a complete declaration of truth, is not sufficient to produces any im pression or permanent yood on our obstinate minds. Com

mands must be repeated, crimes forbidden, duty enforced motives presented, the memory refreshed, the understand ing enlightened, the heart affected, avain and again; and after all this, how often has the preacher of righteousness been forced to exclaim with the prophet, ‘[ have stretehed out my hand all day long to a disobedient and vain- saying people ?”

what conseqnences would ensue were they totally relaxed 7

I such efforts are more than once unsuecesafal,

‘“ But the exhibition even of truths, however interest, ing in themselves, if shown always in the same light. will

—_

43 MEMOIR OF TIF

disyust. They must be seen in the best light: pleasure must be mixed with instruetion, We must captivate the imagination to reach the understanding, the intelleet must he enlightened to reach the heart, and we must avail our: selves of the ardor of the feelings to induce the will. It is not easy to make the viee we love appear as our most

OO

deadly enemy. It is no mean art to make a virtue, to which we are indifferent, appear lovely and interesting. It is not every illiterate speaker that can solve difficulties, explain

ee a

mysteries, banish doubts, influence the zeal, and animate the progress of the Christian, A view of the abuses of the pulpit, and a desire to prompt the industry, and encourage all who aseend it to persevere in the study of perfect ora- tory and a complete knowledge of theology, induces me to commence these essays, At the same time, [ would wish is them to understand in how difficult and arduous a situa- tion they are placed,”

Soon after he came to reside at Prineeton, he commenced a private journal, which, however, was continued but a short time, owing, as may be inferred from several notices in it, to an enfeebled state of health, which a too eager and exclusive exertion of mind already began to induce, and from which, itis probable, he was never afterwards entirely free. From this journal the following brief extracts are inade :

“August 9, 1821.—In the afternoon, [ spent an hour in the library, examining the ever-to-be-revered Whitfield’s manuscript journal. It records his daily labors for about two years. How did my heart burn within me as I read

ht: pleasure aptivate the ntelleet must ist avail our: the will. = Tt as our most a virtue, to resting. Itis alties, explain and animate abuses of the nd encourage f perfect ora- nduces me to would wish uous a situa-

y commenced inued but a veral notices oo eager and induce, and ards entirely extracts are

; an hour in Whitfield’s rs for about eas I read

RKV. JOSEPEL STIDBS CURIBSTMAS yA |

of his incessant labors, in season and out of season—his holy aspirations and devout meditations! Oh that a larg portion of his spirit might rest upon me, and that unction from on high which spread such a savor of life unto life all around him.”

“ August 10,—In two days [ am for the second time to unite with the people of God in commemorating my Sa- viour’s dying love.”

Then follows a very long prayer, carefully written out, including a kind of covenant, at the close of which he says: —" Spent the forenoon in’ writing the foregoing, after which walked out on che road, and had sweet medi- tations on the love of God. Towards evening, went into the woods, to my accustomed resort, and read over the pre- ceding pages several times,’’

Saturday, August 11.—FFasted this day, and was much in prayer and self-examination,

“ Lord's day, August 12.—Spent the morning in prayer and in coding the scriptures. At church, the exercises produced .a me, and IT doubt not in most of the children of God, a joy unspeakable and full of glory. May the strength of Christ be perfected in my weakness in fulfilling more perfectly than I have ever yet done the vows of God which are upon me,”’

“ August 13.—Wrote a letter to , earnestly exhort- ing him to flee from the wrath to come. The Lord, who can accomplish much by the feeblest means, can bless these few lines which I have sent to the eternal salvation of hirm for whom I have so often prayed and interceded. I find that cultivating the gift prepares us better for entering into the spirit of prayer, and that a clear and methodical arrangement of the topics we are to dwell on before (od is

* POSNER II I calcd

24 MEMOIR OF THE

serviceable. The duty of thanksgiving (which approaches nearer to the employment of heaven than any other of our religious exercises, adoration perhaps excepted) shall oecupy my thoughts, my pen, and I hope, my heart, for the few following pages.”’

Here follows an exercise of praise, thanksgiving, and prayer, chiefly in scripture language, which is extended through eight closely written pages, and embraces a wide range of subjects.

The remainder of this diary contains little more than a brief notice of his studies and of some passing events; and it is to be regretted that no other journal of this kind, till near the close of his life, is to be found among his papers. The most striking feature of this journal is the evidence it affords of his love and habit of prayer. It contains several forms of considerable length, besides frequent short peti- tions, and a number of plans or skeletons of prayer, under a variety of heads. It would seem, that instead of writing much about himself, when he sat down to this book, he passed the time in devout exercises of prayer and praise. Among the books which he read, are noted the memoirs of White, Spencer, Martyn, Brainerd, Fuller, and Scougal.

Saturday, September 8, he writes :---“ At the close of another week, on looking back I see much to be humbled for; a formality in public and social prayer, which I think is a temptation of Satan, and that I need to put on the whole armor of God. I must likewise blame myself for too much neglecting the holy word, for the deficiency of ejacu- latory prayer, for want cf diligence and order in busi- ness.”

He was about this time much taken up with the memoirs of H. K. White, and under date September 10, 1821,

Sie eet eg NS

~ gs = 6

h approaches other of our ) shall occupy

for the few

sgiving, and is extended races a wide

,more than a events; and this kind, till 1¢ his papers. 1¢ evidence it tains several t short peti- prayer, under ad of writing his book, he r and praise. e memoirs of nd Scougal. the close of be humbled hich I think o put on the nyself for too ney of ejacu- der in busi-

the memoirs r 10, 1821,

NEV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. 2h

says, “ Copied in India ink a likeness of KX. White, which I framed in glass, and hung up on the wall just over my

: table, that my eyes may stir me up to imitate so noble a

pattern.”

“ September 13.--Employed the greater part of the day in copying off some drawings of Hindoo deities, sent to the Society of Inquiry concerning Missions, by Gordon Hall, missionary at Bombay. These paintings I made for a missionary agent, hoping that in his hands they might subserve the cause of our Master. Read iu H. Martyn’s Memoirs. The question recurred to me, and caused a vio- lent struggle in my mind: ‘ Would I be willing, for Christ’s

_ sake, to leave father, mother, sister, brother, wife, houses, and lands, and go to a distant country to preach the gos-

_ pel to the heathen ?” This question took fast hold of his feelings, and was not shunned or dismissed till he had views of the missionary cause which gained his heart, and ren- dered him willing to go wherever duty might call.

“ September 14.—Neglected this day setting a watch over my first thoughts, and endeavoring to make them humbie and devout; so excellent a preparation for prayer and aright spirit during the day. Thought much of a missionary life.”

_ “ October 1.—Spent the forenoon in reading Brainerd

~and Doddridge. These holy books excited a fervor in my

soul which remained all day. In the evening, went to the woods, and felt strongly drawn forth to God for more holi-

ness, and for blessings on my friends for whom I interced- ed.”

- He continued in the seminary the usual period of three 4 years, faithfully and zealously pursued the regular routine

a

C

’

mah WEAOUR OW Cre

Mf atidies, exerted Hinmeel! to be used as a Staey Mela!

foacher and iy varios offer wave, and wae eateomed: ane

Volowed by all who lanew him i

Daring this period, Tis orteimal eompositions, aernans

essays, eonnents, and notes, on variona Cheolooiedt and

; practical subjeets, and his eopies of Che prineipal leetires af the professors iy the seminary, are very abundant, and: tes ty the veaseloss aetividy of Tis mind.) and) the diliwener

and ardor with whieh he enployed himself Ttia notin

tended to present a partiontar enmmeration of those papers

a Vfow of the subjeets of them, however, are worthy to de specially notieed lo oarrly wy Woneo | yyy SS An ‘lysis’ af the sibjeet vf

praver, Whiel he eoped and enlarged from time to dime, { ‘

til it was oxtendod to about sixty mantseript pages

This was evidently a favorite abjeet of study and medi

tation with him, We revised it frequently, adding new

topies of veknowledement and petition, new forms of

expression and quotations from Seripture, sometimes in f poneil and at ethers ino ink, Tn one essay of this kind there are move than one hundred and fifty heads and di Visions, many of whieh are written ont at considerable { loneth, chiefly im Seripture language. ‘Mere are, more oF over, besides those already mentioned, a number of forme a of prayer, chiefly for public worship, fully written out, some of which, he observes, he committed to memory, }

lt may weil be supposed to have been owing in ne ] small degree, to his having so faithfully studied this sub. 8 jeet and enriched his mind with it, that he excelled so re t

markably as he didin publie prayer. Highly interesting

as his publie manistrations were wont to be, generally, no

portion of thom was more edifying and impressive, or

aay Melia

rateomedd ane

YS SOP TONES ootooieat ane wy} loetiared al ant, ane tes {lhe Ailiwener It ia notin {lode papers

worthy tobe

lhe anhject vf {ine deo Cine, seriph pages Vy andl medi vding new ow forms ol ainetimes in of this kind vends and. ali corsiderable ‘conve, more her of forma written out, nemory. owing nm ne ied this sub. xeelled so re y interesting generally, no

pressive, or

a Ras: ae

es

mae na

REY. JOSPPH STINE CARIST MAS ‘7

coined tnore topon the attention oF the hearers, thon hie prayers, They were charneterized not only by variety, eopiousnesa, nnd ferveney, hit hy a hoppy mothod and ap rangement, an approprinteness and ence, m singin felicity of expression, a dignity, propriety aml reverence omhieh contd hardly fil to be observed hy everyone, This was evt dently nh maa aurreoable exererse bo him: and being per formed with alb the notural ease aod sweetness of bia yoien midomanner, th owen the attention sil aympathy of the hearer, and seomed to absteaet hime Prom the orld, andearry him with the sposker up to the throne of grace

It does not seem to be too much to say that prayer was the chief, the leading, and most constant subject of his thoughts and practice, during the latter years of his life Whether a judgment be formed from his writings, from 1819 down to 1830, or from a personal knowledye of his sentiments and habits, the same conclusion will be arrived at. Prayer was his chief, his daily, hourly, constant re source, THe delighted in it, and derived unspeakable re: lief, comfort and spiritual aid from it. Amidst his on

sufferings and anxieties from ill-health, and the over

every

side as he drow near the end of his course, prayer waa all

wielming tide of afflictions which beset him on

inall to him, asa means of relief and sapport.

Happily

for him, in seasons of debility and pain, alike preventing

mental and bodily exertion, his mind had been so thorough ly trained and disciplined to this exercise, and so richly stored with the examples and inculesations of the Serip tures,

Besides 1 number of plans and sketches of lectures or

other exercises on this subject, there are among his papers

¥,

several sermons on prayer ; particularly one entitled

UG MERVOIR OF TIER

Chyiatian Tntereession frome Romana, i 8 atother on the Lends Prayer; another on SO Mamily Prayer fron Joshi, 24) smother on Hjseulatory Prayer, Nehemioh, Wd another on the Prayer of Maith’ t doh i

The frst of these is mambered four in the aeries of hia dis courses, and was written at Prineeton dm E825. On that aveount partly, and beeanse it advantageously exhibits his views at that period of the duty of intereeding for others, the principal part of it ia inserted: ata subsequent page Mio reader's attention might here be solivited, not only to the important truths whieh he ineuleates, but to the ease and propriety of his style, the evidenee furnished at every stop of his familiar acquaintance with hia subjeet, and the niany striking and impressive illustrations and turns of thought with whieh his compositions abound. But it ean hardly be necessary, even to the most eursory reader, to be premonished of these things, nor is it apprehended that any one will require an apology for presenting him with these quotations,

There is connected with one of his diseourses on a sacra. niental occasion, (Ist,) an“ Tnvoeation,”” at the commence ment of the serviee, (2ud,) “ Prayer before Sermon,” in which, at intervals, the several verses, (exeept the 14th, ) of the Sist Psalin are sueeessively introduced, with some slight verbal accommodations, (srd,) a“ Conseerating Prayer, introductory to the ordinanee, (4th,) “ Thanks giving and Prayer,” at the close of the service,

This may be regarded as a sample of the pains and care he took in preparing for his publie duties, and especially for the duty of prayer, which, of all the public exercises of religion, is often the worst performed, and least regarded, and. ii may be presumed, is too seldom anticipated by any

*

nother on raver, fram “ Nehomioh, Hohov tl iva of Iria dis dtr Odo Want y oxhibita his no for others, woqpienyt prwe A, not only te at to the enee ahod at every Ijeet, and the And turna of 1. Dut it ean y yonder, to be oheonded that ino him with

ROS OW & SACTH- je commence » Sermon,” in pt the T4th,) Wd, with some Jonseerating h,) © Thanks re, yains and eare and especially ie oxereises of vast regarded, ipated by any

" RHY. JOSHPH STIANS CHRISTMAS "y

preparatory atudy or reflection Tt wold seen that repon almost all apecial HOONSTOMA, he woe in the baebit mate nly of neditating before hand, bat of writing ont bis penzgers, and this preparing his own mind ta perform the servic publicly, in the best manner he wes capable of, and taen yoy the hivhest, antiafaction and Aelight in the exerepae It was probably owing to this habit, Hat his public pray era had ao strikingly the charneter of pragersin the closet

that they indicated on his part » sonacionaness only of the presence of Gods and that they shounded with the sin

plicity, ferveney, and reverence of m filial spirit

Asa futher Wnusteation of this subject, if ison point to

mention the oseasion of his return to his congregation, after a journey which he took in the spring of 1825, for the purpose of obtaining peouinary aid towards erecting their place of worship, On this occasion he wrote a prager preparatory to his first meeting them for public worship, of which the annexed extract is a part. After expressions of adoration and praise to God for the wonders of his love, as displayed in his works, and in his word, and ordinances and of invocation of his gracious presence and sid, he pro ceeds: ‘We bless thee, Father of Mereies, that we are ayain, asin people, permitted to meet together. We her: erect ® monument of our gratitude, a pillar of rere _ brance to thy providential goodness. Thou hast bean with

' thon haat

him who is the mouth of this people in prayer ; directed his goings; under the covert of thy wings he hae found refuge ; in various perils during his long joumey ings, thou hast protected him; in multiplied labors thon hast upheld him; the brazen-leaved gates of difficulty hast ' thou opened before him; thou hast prospered him ir ) awakening the liberality of the churches beyond our ez

30) MEMOTR OF CTIEB

peetation : and now in peaee and safety he is permitted te reste his usual duties. We thank thee too that the lives of those now present have been spared to this time,

that they are still prisoners of hope, and may all yet be- come partakers of thy grace :—and yet thou hast sent thine awful messenyer amongst us,—there is one who was with us when we last assembled, who is now not here,— he was sttddenly called henee,—he is in the world of spirits, Kuable us, O Gad, to learn and improve by such lessons of mortality, Some of us before thee are mourners, — some have been called upon to part with dear children,—

thou knowest the severity of such a stroke,—elouds and

darkness are round about thee, but righteousness and judgment are the habitation of thy throne,—thow hast bruised, and thou eanst bind up,—thou hast wounded, and thow eanst pour in. the oil of consolation,—thou hast afflicted, and thou canst sanctify afflictions,—thou hast taken away tender offspring, but thou canst give a Saviour—a title to heaven,—thou hast caused a sorrow ful parting, but thou cans’t give a joyful meeting where they shall never part. again,—where parents and children join together in praise to Him, who, having brought them through much tribulation, made their robes white in the blood of the Lamb, and conseerated them as kings and priests unto God.”

‘ There are others whose state of health, or the duties of life, have called to another place of abode. Be with them, O Lord, and bless them—be very gracious to them —and may the good will of him that dwelt in the burning bush be their portion. We ask not that thou shouldst take them from the world, but that thou wouldst keep them from the evil that is in the world,—that thou wouldst

Fe eee

a

a eee

ere ete

ae

Nl permitted te too that the LO this time, waveall yet be: ou hast sent a one who was not here, — he orld of spirits, y such lessons » mourners, — wr children, — o,—clouds and ‘teousness and ne,—thouw hast hast wounded, on,—thou hast ns,—thow hast canst give 4 used a sorrow meeting where s and children brought them s white in the as kings and

or the dutics yde. Be with acious to them in the burning thou shouldst wouldst keep t thou wouldst

=

+ ;

; oy : a a ; spe

red

CHRISTMAS Ol

REV, JOSEPH STDS preserve them as the apple of thine eye, and keep) then by the mighty power of God through faith tanto salya thon.’

‘Wo render thanks to theo the viver of every yood and perfect gift, for the benevglence of those in’ a distant re vion who having heard that our little ark dwelt under cur- tains while they lived in coiled houses, have liberally imparted of their substance, in commiseration of our necessi ties, We bless thee for what our cyes have seen,—for in- stances of the riches of liberality abounding out of the depths of poverty, which will at the day when the secrets and inotives of all hearts shall be made manifest, be to the glory and honor of our benefactors.’

“() Lord Godt we implore thy blessing on this church Wo trust that it is a vine of thin

Suffer it not to be laid waste—let it

and congregation. own planting. send forth its boughs like the cedars cf Lebanon—let it bear fruit like the grapes of Wschol—let the dews of Hermon Thou art visiting the earth with show- ers of reviving grace. Let us not be like the fleece of Gideon which was dry while all around was watered. Without thee we can do nothing. Breath of the Lord! come and breathe on the dry bones: arm of the Lord! awake! awake! quicken the hearts of thy people—ani- mate their declining graces—stir them up to persevering

descend upon it.

intercession—may there be among us many wrestling Jacobs, many prevailing Israels, who will not let thee go except thou bless them,” &e.

As has been suggested above, to excel in public prayer is by no means common. flow scldom, indeed, is this service performed in such a manner as to fix the attention and impress the mind of the hearer? How often, on the

»

ee en eee

Ss ee ee

32 MEMOIR OF TITE

contrary, do prayers exhibit almost every specics of fault, in regard to the general spirit and manner, the topies introduced, the careless, affected, drawling or hurried pro vuneiation, the frequent repetition and perhaps irreverent use of the sacred names, the introduction of unusual and inappropriate words, and of highly figurative language and allusions, of long and involved periods, of didactie and controvertial matter, of labored deseription, hyperbole and metaphor 2? How often, instead of a calm and colleeted state of mind, do we witness haste, effort and irreverence , and instead of what would be appropriate, a surprising eruderess and flippancy in matter and manner, which would not be tolerated in a sermon, and would be very ill thought of in a closet ?

Another subject which, while in Princeton, he appears to have studied with great care and fidelity, and with vreat benefit to his own mind, and to his after usefulness, was the character, vierrious sufferings, and meditorial reign of our Lord Jesus Christ. This subject interested him too deeply to be passed without a thorough investiga- tion, and the attainment of clear, scriptural, and satisfac- tory views and convictions. His studics and meditations on it, of which, besides one considerable essay, there are among the papers of this period a variety of notices, appear to have prepared him to give this great theme its die prominence in his subsequent writings and ministra- tions. There are among his sermons no less than twelve on different parts of the character and work of Christ.

Passing other leading subjects of inquiry which special- ly engaged his attention in the course of his theological studies, it remains to mention one of a different nature, which deeply interested him before the close of his resi-

ecies of fault, r, the topics hurried pro aps irreverent unusual and language and didactie and hyperbole and and colleeted d irreverence , , 2 surprising anner, which ld be very ill

yn, he appears ty, and with ter usefulness, nd meditorial ect interested iwh investiga- and satisfae- d meditations say, there are y of notices, reat theme its and ministra- s than twelve of Christ. which special- sis theological erent nature, sc of his resi-

“.* - -_

REV. JOSEPH 8TIBBS CHRISTMAS,

denee at Princeton; viz., the state of the Protestant charches in France and the valleys of Piedmonte, the facilities of use- fulness to them, and his desire if possible to devote himself to their service. His mind was fully mado up to the labors and privations of « missionary life, and in his inquiries into the condition of the several nations of the earth, and the means of access and usefulness to them, his own reflec: tions appear to have led him to select the above-mentioned for the scene of his labors a8 a preacher of the gospel. One of his letters on this subject, addressed to S. V. 8 Wilder, Ksq., then recently from France, and dated March 21, 1824, very fully exhibits his views and the state of his feelings. THkoLocicAL Seminary, Prinogrtron, N. J,, Murch 21, 1824.

‘“Sir,—A few weeks since I visited the city of New

York, carrying with me a letter of introduction from Dr.

Miller addressed to yourself. Your absence from the city

deprived me of the opportunity of a personal interview with you. Upon my return to this place I took the liberty of writing you a letter, presuming that your kindness and the nature of my inquiries would form a sufficient apoloyy for the trouble which a stranger was giving you. Not having heard from you, and supposing that you have not received my former letter, I shall here repeat the substance of what it contained.

‘For several months there has been revolving in my mind a strong desire of devoting myself to the service of the reformed churches of France. The once flourishing condition of that formerly most fair portion of the Chris- tian church, the havoc produced in it by the persecutions of Lewis XIV., its subsequent declensions, and late hope-

34 MEMOIR OF THE tul symptoms of recovery, give it an interest in the view of every Christian who surveys the various nations of the

earth, An especial interest should he take in it, who is

just coming forward to lend his exertions to the extension

of the Redeemer’s kingdom, and who yet, disengaged from

all restraining connexions, should try to consider himself

a citizen of the world, and therefore as much bound to

hear the claims of one country as another. When with

such feelings I further consider the vast importance of regaining those territories which have been lost since the

reformation, especially a country so rich in population, resources, and influence, as France; and when the practi- cability of doing it is rendered more probable by the

rcligious toleration enjoyed there, the present state of indifference which appears in the Roman Catholic commu- nion, and the increasing willingness to hear gospel truth which is found among the Protestant population. All these facts make me unwilling to dismiss the thoughts of France for the, in some respects, more pleasing prospects of staying at home. But I should be unfit to stay at home if, enchained by its ties, I was appalled at, and retreated from the hardships I might expect abroad. In attempting to obtain the information necessary to come toa proper decision on the course to be pursued, I have met with much embar- rassment. Intelligence respecting the religious condition of France, the access which a foreigner might obtain to the atten- tion of the people, in short, every thing I would wish to know I have found very scarce. Juately I have seen a number of the publications of the Continental Society ; extracts of correspondence and reports down to 1822. ‘The result of the whole is an increased desire to proceed in the under- taking. But how shall I be introduced into the country

‘tin the view ations of the in it, who is the extension engaged from isider himself uch bound to When with importanee of lost since the in population, en the practi- ybable by the sent state of itholic commu- r gospel truth ulation. All 1¢ thoughts of sing prospects 0 stay at home and retreated attempting to proper decision 1 much embar- $ condition of nin to the atten- wish to know en a number y; extracts of The result of in the under- o the country

REV, JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. ar) aud supported there? The Continental Society employs none but native preachers. The sums already expended on my education, and the equal claims of a large family, leave me nothing to expect, at least at present, from my father. Would you advise me to attempt in New-York or Philadelphia, where I am best known, a private association of wealthy and spirited individuals, who would agree to support one or two agents, or does our distance from France render impracticable the organization of a society like the Continental? Your advice in the whole business will of course depend upon some knowledge of the individual ad- vised. Permit me then to say a few things concerning inyself’: circumstances will I hope excuse the apparent want of delicacy in doing so. My parents reside in the state of Ohio, I have completed the course of collegiate study, have been a member of the Theological Seminary in this place for nearly three years, and expect to be licensed by the presbytery of Philadelphia in a few weeks. Ihave not yet finished my twenty-first year. My youth, though disadvantageous in some respects, will enable me more easily to transform myself into a Frenchman in manners and speech. The most discouraging item is yet to come. I have very little knowledge of the French language. But having a somewhat good memory, I expect no insuperable difficulty on this score, provided my organs of speech are sufficiently flexible to adjust themselves to all the niceties of French pronunciation. If it were possible to get the charge of an English church in some part of France for two or three years, I might in the interim be acquiring the language, and whatever else I should find necessary ; and at the end of this time, I should expect to dissolve all local engagements and pastoral connexions, and going forth as

36 MEMOIR OF THE

an itinerant, to sow the seed of the gospel by the wayside, or within inclosures, wherever there was soil to receive it; visiting the languishing and destitute churches; seeking out the remnants of Huguenot Societies, which I dare say are still existing in many parts of the country, especially the mountainous districts of the south-east. Circumstances might determine me to use the subsidiary means of distri- buting tracts, forming associations, translating or composing religious books, &c. An undertaking of this kind, I deli- berately expect will involve much self-denial and hardship ; but in this way I should delight to spend my life. As yet I have taken no step and made no arrangements for such a mission. I venture to lay open my feelings and solicit the advice of one whose knowledge of that country and its | religious concerns, best enables him to give advice, and } whose attachment to a cause all Christians love, will I doubt not, dispose him do it. Among other inquiries, had I better be ordained in this country, or going merely asa

licentiate, enter the ministry there, and thus secure the

confide: .. and interest of the native pastors ? Do the laws

~ require all candidates for the ministry to go to the seminary

at Montaubon ? Will it be necessary to be naturalized ?

These queries, with whatever else you may think impor-

tant, will you be so good as to answer? It is not impro-

bable that immediately after my licensure (which will take

place about the 20th of April,) I shall visit New England,

and then I hope to have the gratification of seving you face

to face. I must not forget to mention that a classmate of

mine, Mr. Benedict, a young man of piety, fortitude and

decision, of good talents and popular eloquence, has recent-

ly been very seriously thinking of associating himself with

me, in my projected undertaking. About the first of June

- setts

ees nae Po St

es x

the wayside, 0 receive it; hes; sceking wh I dare say ry, especially ‘ircumstances ans of distri- or composing kind, I deli- and hardship ; life. As yet ents for such vs and solicit untry and its e advice, and e, will I doubt uiries, had I g merely as a us secure the ? Do the laws ) the seminary naturalized ? think impor- is not impro- hich will take New England, eving you face nh classmate of fortitude and e, has recent- himself with e first of June

% wish to have my mind decided on this subject. ter and advice I expect will have the principal weight in

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. 37

I design to return to Ohio to visit my friends, from whom I have been these three years absent. Before that time I Your let-

that decision. Though personally a stranger to you, yet

allow me to subscribe myself yours in Christian affection,

JoserpH StTispBs CHRISTMAS,”

‘l'o the above letter, it would be almost inexcusable not to add the following brief sketch of the state of religion in France, and the principal events respecting the Christian profession, from the reformation down to a recent period, in connection with the facilities and encouragements for

such a missionary enterprise in that country, as he had in

view.

f

It was written by him a few weeks before the letter, and was designed for a periodical publication. These papers show the cast of the author’s mind, and

the character of his piety. The reader will perceive that his zeal, though adequate to any undertaking of Christian

labor and self-denial, travelled no faster than his know- ledge ; that he took all due pains to acquire the information requisite to satisfy his judgment and conscience; and that he did not communicate his project to others for their co- operation, till he had carefully surveyed the ground, and availed himself of every means of light within his reach. It “will appear afterwards how, in the absence of any near pros-

: pect of being enabled to fulfill this favorite plan, he yielded

to what appeared a very clear intimation of the will of Pro- vidence, and went another way. His views and feelings, however, raised an interest in the welfare of the Protestant _ churches of France, which has been increased, especially

. by the events of the last year, and which, it is hoped, will

soon lead to something like a fulfillment of his design,

38 MEMOIR OF THE

‘Tt is to be regretted that, in the uncxampled diffusion of religious intelligence which has taken place within a few years, so little is said concerning some of the most impor- tant portions of the world. What we receive from Europe is so purely English, that we never obtain more than a sidelong glance of the continent. This is easily accounted for, when we remember the hostile attitude in which the | British government has until recently stood with respect ; to the neighboring kingdoms. The noise of warfare and | battles having ceased, we begin to hear the milder accents of Christian solicitude, and witness the nobler featsof Chris- tian exertion. It is my intention in this paper to make a few remarks on the present condition of France. And surely, in whatever point of light it is viewed, we could not be summoned to a more worthy theme for contemplation. Melancholy as the survey is, it was not alwaysso. For a hundred years after the reformation, France was the gar- den-spot of the church, the fairest portion of Protestant christendom. The influence of the Queen of Navarre, and the apostolical labors of Calvin, Beza, Farrel, Viret, and others, early obtained for the reformed doctrines a most ex- tensive diffusion in that kingdom. The churches had each a plurality of pastors, were Calvinistic in their doctrines, and Presbyterian in their form of government. The innu- merable vexations to which they were exposed from Popish intolerance, were removed about the close of the sixteenth | century, by the famous edict of Nantz, issued by Henry IV.

The days which followed were too prosperous for the wel- fare of the Huguenots themselves, (for so the French Chris- tians were termed) and for the tranquil observation of their Popish countrymen. The siege of Rochelle, in 1628, was the first signal for the violation of solemn treaty ; the mas-

PRE ie pee Res + re FS a

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. 3g

sacre, on St. Bartholemew’s day, in 1671, was the next in- | stance of sanguinary discipline inflicted by the holy mother ,

pled diffusion G ~~ but the last scene of the tragedy was reserved for the revo-

within a few 2 most impor-

rs

ey.

from Europe more than a sily accounted in which the | with respect f warfare and milder accents -featsof Chris- yper to make a France. And 1, we could not contemplation. aysso. Fora -¢ was the gar- 1 of Protestant f Navarre, and rel, Viret, and ‘ines a most ex- rches had each heir doctrines, mnt. The innu- ed from Popish f the sixteenth L by Henry IV. bus for the wel- French Chris- rvation of their , in 1628, was eaty ; the mas-

~ cation of the edict, in 1685.

* dwellings.

This violation of every bond, human and divine, of every obligation of clemency and justice, was effected at the instigation of Richctieu, prime minister of Louis XIV. The day after this nefarious breach of public faith, an order was issued, requiring all who would not embrace the Romish communion to depart the kingdom instantly. Multitudes, to the amount of about eight hundred thousand, gathering up what frag- ments of their wealth they could, fled from their country, and carried the arts, morals, and choicest, population of France, into Switzerland, Germany, Holland, England, and North America, in which countries they found an

asylum from oppression. The Papists were not yet satisfied.

The last order was immediately followed by another, for- bidding them to quit the country. Many of the refugees were arrested in the highways and seaports. Regiments of soldiers were quartered in their houses, to dragoon them into the faith. Their churches were shut, their pas- tors murdered, their females violated, and their houses burned. Many were the families who took refuge in the fastnesses of the mountains; but many more were they Whose bones lay burnt under the smoking ruins of their This is no exaggeration, unless the ingenious cruelty of demons can be exaggerated. The report of these transactions, which should have melted the heart of barbarism itself, was received at Rome with the most pub- lic demonstrations of joy and thanksgiving. After such

- thorough work, where are we to look for the Protestant church of France? A remnant of oppressd people stil]

40 MEMOIR OF THE

remained after the fury of the persecution was over. They could say. as they met in their place of worship, ‘ Here Abaddie once taught ’’— So many years ago Claude, or Daille, or Pictet, or Saurin, preached here.” But alas

those prophets were gone! and the residue of their spirit rested not on their followers. The stupor of the shock they had received continued for more than a century. Infi- delity -had, with an unseen hand, taken away the key- stone which upheld the arch of empire. The storm of the French revolution came. Its violence alike laid prostrate the magnificent Romish cathedral and the humbler edifice of the Protestant church. That troublous season passed by ; and Bonaparte, with a liberality which reflects honor on his political sagacity, granted the fullest toleration to all parties. But the unceasing warlike operations of his reign generated a military spirit, which exterminated every other passion. The only education among the youth was

military ; aad war, as a matter of course, became the pro-

fession of every young man. The tactics of this world displaced all relish for the discipline necessary for the next: Upon the restoration of the Bourbon family, all attention to rciigion had so disappeared, even among the Roman Catholics, that it was judged expedient to send forth a host of missionaries who should beat up recruits to the standard of the Pope. But among the majority of the people, the priest was despised, as the wretch of hypocrisy, and the missionary as the agent of imposture. After all that had been done, it is no unusual thing to enter a splendid chapel, and find not more than a score of persons attending mass.

“The reformed have legal toleration under the Bourbon dynasty, but it is accompanied with many unjust restric-

s over. They rsbip, ‘‘ Here co Claude, or ” But alas of their spirit of the shock century. Infi- way the key- 1c storm of the y laid prostrate i1umbler edifice ; season passed 1 reflects honor st toleration to erations of his “rminated every the youth was became the pro- of this world ry for the next: ly, all attention ng the Roman o send fortha recruits to the aajority of the h of hypocrisy, ure. After all ing to enter 2 core of persons

er the Bourbon unjust restric:

estimation of their religious character.

REV. JOSEPH sTIBBS CHRISTMAS, 4]

“tions. No foreigner, for instance, can become a pastor in a their churches, and none of their preachers are allowed to ~ address more than nineteen persons, unless it is in a church or a licensed house.

It is but a few years since many of the Protestants were massacred at Nismes. Of a popula- tion of about thirty millions, two or three millions may be ranked among Protestants, who form five hundred and geventy congregations. Let a few facts guide us in an The Lord’s day, the strict observance of which forms such an unfailing criterion of Christian feeling, is in scarce any part of France, or even the whole continent of Europe, kept with what we should term decent respect. Twenty theatres, every Sabbath eveniag, throw open their doors to receive ‘the giddy population of Paris, who are accounted very religious if they have attended a single service in the fore- noon. In this Maelstrom of dissipation may the Protes- tant as well as the Romanist be seen circling. A few years Bince a couple of clergymen quarreled: a "ohellenge was passed, and accepted: they met and fought: neither was killed ; and each continued to carry

‘Weekly to church his book of wicked prayers,’

‘without giving any offence to the public sense of decorum. ‘These facts sufficiently indicate a laxity of morals, while “the appearances of a corruption of doctrine are still more “alarming. The creeping pestilence, which is rightly termed neology, has been moving among the clergy; and, like the simoom of the desert, wherever breathed, instant putre- faction takes place dhecudh the whole system. By this

"is meant a cold, heartless, God- -denying heterodeny, which

is nothing better than ‘ baptized infidelity.’

Its chief seat

te tay

4v MEMOIR OF THR

ain the German universities, and from them fia pradn ally extending its influence, and many there are in Switzer land and Franee whe have drunk in the poison nt those fountains, Uf these things be so, the Calliean churehes unist be in a deplorable condition. ‘The little leaven whieh should have leavened the mighty mags, may be supposed te have nearly lost ite fermenting qualities, We would not, however, say lke the prophet lah, ready to die under the juniper tree, that God has not a remnané left among that poople. An animating process of renovation is at work, Some of the agents employed, and the pleasing indieatione of suveess shall be mentioned,

* Among these may be ranked, ag one of the first, the Bible Society of Paris, with its forty or fifty auxiliaries, ostablished in the most important cities, Tt wag ascertained that for more than twenty years not a single edition of the scriptures had been published in Franee previous to an im pression printed by the British and Foreign Bible Society, Rible societies are now warmly patronised ; and when the agent from the Paris soviety proceeded to Lyons to esta blish another there, the erowd was so immense that it was found necessary to address them in the open air. Roman Catholies had objected to the diffusion of the seriptures in the vernacular tongue, that they were not translated from the authorized Vulgate. Versions from the Latin have ae: cordingly been made by Professor Van Kiss in Germany, and the Baron de Saey in France; men who are themselves Papists in profession.

* The missionary society instituted in the French metro: polis employs an American, Rev, Jonas King, in Palestine; and, like all other missionary institutions, has re-acted most beneficially on the churches at home. A more

TON rare in Bwitner poison nt those Mier churches le lenven whier y he apposed {Wy We world not, to die under the Jet among that Hien ja at work, aging indioations

of the firat, the fifty nuxiliaries, t waa navertained ole edition of tlhe revious to an im val) Bible Society, ds and when the o Lyons to esta yense that it was pen air, Roman the seriptures in t translated from the Latin have ac: Kiss in Germany, ho are themselves

he French metro: ing, in Palestine; ons, has re-acted

home. <A mote

é hey

Ale earth, generally obaerved ine the southern districts,

JOSEPH STIBRS CHRIBT MAS,

general attention to the things whieh God is doing through igexoited, and the monthly consert of prager ia Very gerent, exertions lave been made to introduce the Lanenasterian method of terching, and sehools for mutual instruction, a4 they are enlled, are now very numerous

But it ia chiefly by the preaching of the gospel that God Ghooses to accomplish every yroat moral revolution, and the

pulpit

‘Must stand acknowledged, while the world shall stand The most important and effectual guard, Support, and ornament of virtiue’a enuge’

A amall number of zealous and able ministers of the gospel Gre £ foond in a few of the most important posts in the coun by. M. Martin, of Bordeaux, M. Lessignol, of Montpellier,

‘@nd MM. Mallan, of Geneva, are not unknown to the Chris- than public. bosom of the Roman Catholic church, each of whom well deserves the tittle of Leuconomasredivinus.

In Germany, two mon have arisen in the

Lindell, by his bold and faithful preaching of the gospel, drew upon him- solf the odium of the Popish ecclesiastics, who were about to slut him up in a monastery for life. But receiving an invitation from the Prince Galitzin to go to St. Peters- burgh, they dared not detain him. He has since renounced all connection with the Roraish church,

~The other luminary of the German church is Gossner. The unbounded popularity of this man of God attracts Vast crowds wherever he preaches. He has been known to address from twenty-five to thirty thousand persons in the open fields. His useful zeal was not long in drawing ‘dowa persecution upon his head. He was thrown into

14 DAD ERR AL MOD ee Be

prison, and pomtined far abe nonttya, when te wae relenaed at the solivitation af the Haaperor Alosandor, who tind lim tranaported to the Rivsatan eapital Me ds prenehing Chern mew, With aareat Dlessina mpon Ufa Tabor Ti (he ne thom eivetes of Chormany theme laa heen mn eery eenera! rolinions exeitenrent of lates and evel ds the progrega ot entiohtened views, that ft fs supposed that the whole ot that portion of eontial Murope is nearly ready to Chrow off he woke of the Popo. Tn Bwitaerland, too, the labora offs Uatholie priest, named Boos, have been mueh blessed A work whieh he published, on justifiention Dy (ith, contains dhose very views of this doetrine whieh Tuather eonstdered the foundations of the Chureh “Rut to return. The benevetont enterprise of Rbitish Christians instituted, in the vear TRE, the Continental Sooiety, Whose object was to spread the lanowledge of th oospel in Pranee, by assisting loeal preachers of an evan golieal stamp, and employing agents, who should travers the eonntry in all ditections, carrying with them the ever lasting gospel. — From twelve to twenty of these laborion: iiinerants have been in this manner constantly employed. Ty many instanees, they have been reeeived with open arma hy the settled pastors, to wham they have been useful in direc! ing to clearer views of the truth, and encouraging then in their evangeliealdiligenee. Many a destitute and aeattered flock of Jesus Christ has by them Reard the votee of thi Great Shepherd. and many and signal have been the ins tanees of conversion under their ministrations, Tf om momory fails me not, it was by the preaching of one oi these evangelists that a very extensive revival took plac:

in one of the cantons of Switzerland, in: which seventeen

ministers were brought to the experimental knowledge o!

lhe wre yrelonaed iY, whe Vvevel Winn poverty dings (Nyen vet Vay Hyer teen Von very ATO (le pragress iif vt the whole of addy to (row off othe \Inlora ofa wel blesaed \ Ly (ith, eandivine

ather eonatdered

oyprise ot Baeitish

(he Continental knowledge off thy velrers of a evan wy should traverse Hy thew the ever MW these laborious itly employed, I) vith open arms hy on usefal in direct sonraging them i

tute and aeattered

the voiee of th vave been the ime at rations, saching of one revival took plac h whieh seventeer butal knowledge o!

fom

b REV. (OGRE erm CHMtn Ad ie

. the froth, To the walleye af Piedmont, qo anered to every a plone recollection, they have visited the primitive Walden Ree, n people who mre now nbouwt eighteen thong in dtmber. and who would bail the neaiatanes of yospel labor

Bre with tranepert, They have heard of a congregation of four hundred ehepherdaon the Mrench side of the Pyrenees, Who tiave tad of the Glivt of Nantz, but who still meet together every sabbath

no minister sinee the revoontion to rend the eoriphures and pray,

Connectod with the Continental Society, is a singular and Hkefil elnes of men, the Colportenra. These are pious Youny men, who travel through the villages with packages Of Bibles, tracts, and pious books. They visit from honse

to house, inquiring for those who are destitute of the word of life; have much religions conversation with the inhabi | thats, and frequently drop a short exhortation to the little Bowpanies that cluster around their package of Bibles.

They usually call on the Romish carates, and have found

tiuny of them who had never seen an New Testament,

bef re |

Ohased with eagerness,

a book whieh they have in many instances pur

From the preceding statements, it is evident that this great nation,’

as they have styled themselves, are in an fAteresting and hopeful condition. Never since the refor- a have the ficlds appeared whiter for the harvest. What a triumph to the Church would it be, if France should

be Christianized !

Which from its location, resources, or influence, could be

There is not a country on the globe

More instrumental in the universal propagation of the goa- pel. Frenchmen have in our associations become so much eonnectod with warfare and bloodshed, that we have almost Forgotten that they are immortal beings, and as susceptible

46 MEMOIR OF TITE

of a religious influence as any other people. In our en- deavors to extend the gospel through the world, it becomes us not to overlook a nation who are highly civilized, who have their language fixed, and the Bible translated, who are acecssible, and many of them desirous to be taught, and who, once evangelized themselves, possess the means of extending the blessing far and wide. An American would in that country find a much more direct way to the hearts of the people than an Englishman. ‘Y | chen, docs not

v7

the American Church send her messengers of salvation to them? Why have we no such institution as the Conti- uental Society of London? The maintenance of mission. aries in that country would be as cheap as in any part of the world. We trust there are young men who are willing to go upon so noble an enterprise; who, ready to spend their lives in the propagation of the gospel, would desire no easier employment than to go forth and scatter the seed of truth wherever there was soil to receive it. That singular interest which the truth, faithfully declared, has, where it has been for a long while unheard and unknown, might be expected; and a generation of Frenchmen, it might be hoped, would rise up to bless the men who had sought the things which are Jesus Christ’s, while so many seek the things which are their own. France, which has been ferti- lized more than any other country by the blood of martyrs, and signalized more than any other by the awful displays of human depravity and the trumphs of irreligion—F rance, we trust, is in a more remarkable manner than any other country to experience the energies of Divine Graec.

J. 8. 0.”

“ Princeton, April 7, 1824.”

le. In our en- orld, it becomes ly civilized, who

translated, who is to be taught, sess the means ot American would vay to the hearts ,, then, docs not rs of salvation to on as the Conti- nance of mission: as in any part of n who are willing , ready to spend ], would desire no catter the seed of t. That singular red, has, where it known, might be nen, it might be ho had sought the so many seek the ich has been ferti- blood of martyrs, he awful displays religion—France, er than any other ine Graec.

J, 8. C2"

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. 47

rF Mr. Christmas left the Theological Seminary in April, 1824, and proceeded to Philadelphia, to attend a meeting of the Presbytery, by which he was licensed to preach the

Gospel. He read to that body a narrative of his religious experience, in which, alluding to the period of his conver- gion, he says: ‘ Painting, which I had hitherto been much engaged at, and which, with an enthusiastical attachment, I had resolved on as a profession, now lost its charms; [ deplored what I considered an idolatrous love of a fine art. Such an alienation of affection from my old pursuits took place, as a few months before I had considered impossible.

’ The gospel ministry, which had formerly been a subject of

aversion, I now began to think would be a most delightful employment.”

He had scarcely received his license, when a messenger from the new Presbyterian Church in Montreal arrived in Philadelphia, with a view to obtain him for their pastor. “T was,” he writes, ‘‘ at this time exceedingly desirous of going on a mission among the scattered and destitute Pro-

testant churches of France. When I received the proposal of this messenger, I was much averse to it, and persuaded him to return to New-York and seek another candidate, which he did. Ina few days I received a letter, saying he was waiting there for me; and shortly after he came again himself to take me. I was reluctant and hesitating; but having prayed, and received the unanimous counsel of my friends and ministerial brethren, I went with him, and on the fifth of May reached Montreal.” At the end of three weeks the congregation gave him an unanimous call; and having become a member of the presbytery of New York, he _was ordained by a committee of that body on the first of August, 1824. He now entered on a field of exertion, in

Ah NN Aa ne

{\ WRU OP TH

Whiel there wae very nel de les wily eemet heidi ned natiavally yobwet, and whieh, fé fe proammed, wae already in eve deauree Wy paid od ton elite the tren MW owhieh We wae net able to endive He. however, porsovervd with the epinit and Corditide of ao nantye fi (ony vears, and until Wie phyasietan warned hin fare Move, OY OXpeet a speedy tommination of hia Hf Me early hoeame attached to his peaple, and deeply eoneerned toy theiy spieitual welfare, and for Cheiy avke atviaoted hromeh coveral perinds of severe ilnese, when every earthly eonaid eration moved hin to withdraw. Wventea showed that he Had a great work fo de there sand by tomporary absenee, tyavel, and vest, his exhausted streonath was regained, and his wonted vignr repeatedly restored,

In dane, T8249. he marvied Miss Louisa Jones, danolter OM My, Dever Jones. of the eity of New Vork > whe, by her piety, Intelligenee, and wisdom, her meek and afetionate spint, and the diavity and amiableness of her manners, was singularly well suited to him, and to the station she was ealled to occupy

Vis ministerial and pastoral labors were earinently bene Reial to his people, throughout the whole period of his resi dence with them, and especially in the early part of L824, his church was greatly blessed and enlarged, by a powerful work of the Holy Spirit. About one hundred of those who ap poaread to be savingly benefitted, were added to that ehureh Ofvarious others belonging to diferent places and religious connections, five or six were inhabitants of St. Andrew's, a town about forty-five miles west from Montreal, to which place he made a visit of four or five weeks early in the av tumn when a similar work of grace commenced, and was pro Mmoted by his instrumentality, and about thirty persons were

Cvad Cred tern pet , wre Mlyonly i) Othe ea trenies

He. Nowever, Mon aaetye for Wed Wi fa ve Hite | We enh y voneernod Foy iter led throw y earthly eonaid eahowed that he Nporary Abseneo, vg reynined, and

Jones, danglter ky whe, by her and affoetionate of her manners, ) the station she

eminently bene Heriod of his resi rly part of L824 d, by a powerful Lof those who ap A to that chareh cos and religious sf St. Andrew's, mitreal, to which

early in the an ped, and was pro irty persons were

ne

“added fo the (Dareh,

renewed religiona attention appeared in hig own eonpredn

JOS RPT ATES

CHMIGT MAS AY

Noor the eloge of the eame year, a

TF tion, ond about twenty were recognized ag hopeful converts

The following brief review of hia prineipal labora while

pastor of that elhireh, and ofsome of their resulta, waa drawy

up by hin shortly after his removal thence

TT have reason to bleaa God for the arent good, direct

Bnd indireet, whieh he has made me the means of doing

I hope Eaay number considerably above an hundred souls

Gonverted through my instramentality,

I have improved

Piy sequaintanee, both with the (ireek nod Slebrew lan

Burges, and have heen growing in the knowledge of the

Boelish Bible.

Atructed onmany points of Christian dootrine ;

My mind has been enlightened and in-

partionlarly

depravity, the will, natural and moral inability, and. the

Among other labors [ delivered

Chature of the prayers of the impenitent.”

several unwritten Jee

tures on ecclesiastical history, in the Methodist chapel.

ae

apostles ereed,

¢

tiries

2. A series of Wednesday evening lectures on the

3. Constructed a biographical chart for nineteen cen-

‘4, Wrote the report of the Bible Society for the year

peding 1826, 3 . Wrote the tract on repentance, No. 183 of the series

(Published.)

of i‘. American Tract Society, which God has already blessed to four individuals that I have heard of.” “6. Wrote an essay on the institution and perpetuity of

the Christian Sabbath, of seventy MS. pages, Submitted for a premium, with, I believe, nearly fifty others, to the committee of the Albany Presbytery.”

Conducted a controversial discussion with a Catho-

which was

no MEMOIR OF TIE

lie priest and a Catholio layman, ina publie print. Phe several pieces were afterwards republished in a pamphlet of sixty-four pages,”

8, Wrote and published an ‘Appeal to the Inhabitants of Lower Canada on the disuse of Ardent Spirits :’ after the formation of the ‘Temperance Society.”

“9, Wrote and published a discourse on the nature of that inability which prevents the sinner from embracing the gospel, 44 pp. Sve.”

Suceceding the above is a list of the principal books he had read during the same period, and a general view of his entire studies in every department of literature and science, which he calls an estimate of his knowledge and ignoranee, together with his plan for future acquisitions.

The tract before mentioned on repentance was written in April, 1826. He says of it in one of his memoranda of that period, “Tf this tract is published I shall consider it the most useful labor of my life.” The following notice of it was communieated in the summer of 1828, at a con- ference of churches in Connecticut, by a delegate, ‘In a town not far from New-Haven, in April last, (1828,) a pious father, passing the street, observed a paper partly covered with dust, which proved to be the tract No. 183 on repentance. He earried it home and read it to his family. The next morning his daughter read it, retired to her room, and formed a solemn resolution not to rest without that repentance which it recommends. [ler anxiety and distress increased to such a degree, that her friends and neighbors were alarmed, and were greatly affected by the evidence they saw in her case of the operations of the Spirit of God. It was not long before she appeared truly —

lic print, Phe ina pamphlet

the Inhabitants t Spirits’ after n the nature of from. embracing

incipal books he neral view of his ture and science, e and ignorance,

WIS,

nee was written his memoranda IT shall consider » following notice 1828, at a con- lelegate. ‘Ina last, (1828,) a 1 a paper partly tract No. 183 on it to his family. t, retired to her t to rest without Her anxiety and her friends and affected by the yperations of the

1e appeared truly —

i

REV. JOSEPIE STIBBS CHMISTMAS, HI penitent and reconciled to God, Her brother and another 7 young man were deeply affected by the scene, were con- ~ victed of their sins, and soon hopefully converted ; and

at the time when this narration was given two others

of her friends were inquiring with earnestness ‘what they

must do to be saved.’ This tract is recommended to the

reader for his own benefit and for circulation, It exhibits

the nature of repentance in a clear and concise manner ; ‘and presents the most affecting considerations to induce an immediate performance of the duty.

Ilis essay on the institution and perpetuity of the Chris- tian Sabbath ,does not appear to have gained the award of the committee to whom it was communicated, nor to have been ‘returned, owing doubtless, to the want of directions to “that effect. This was a subject of the most lively interest _ tohim. He esteemed the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable; and he was tenderly conscientious to ' honor the Lord during its sacred hours, not doing his own Ways, nor finding his own pleasure. ‘There are many notices to this effect scattered up and down among his papers; ‘and it was the subject of a number of his sermons and H ‘other pulpit exercises. In two discourses, in particular, on the fourth commandment, written in 1826, he illustrat- ‘ed the following positions :— _ I. That the Sabbath is of divine authority and perpetual obligation ; which occupies the whole of the first discourse. II. The manner in which it is to be kept. 1 That we are required to prepare beforehand for its ‘sanctification. _ 2. It is to be sanctified by avoiding idleness, recreations and business, and devoutly attending upon its appropriate

52 MEMOIR OF THE religious duties. He shows how it may be profaned by idle- ness, amusement and business; and points out the principal duties and services to be attended to.

His .-ontroversial discussion was begun in a public print by a Catholic priest, who was excited thereto by a published account of the recent revival of religion. In his replies to the priest and his helpers, he made aspirited attack on the errors of Popery, which soon put a period to the contro- versy.

His appeal to the inhabitants of Lower Canada, on the subject of temperance, was published in June, 1828, in an octavo pamphlet, with the constitution of the Montreal So- ciety for the promotion of Temperance; and was widely circulated. He exhibits in vivid colors the ruinous effects of intemperance ; shows that the moderate consumption of intoxicating liquors is dangerous and of no benefit; and finally, that it isthe bounden duty of every person entirely to relinquish and abstain from such liquors, unless requir- ed as medicine. The writing of this appeal was one of the last services which he performed in that country; and it has doubtless been extensively useful. In a review of it in the Christian Spectator for October of the same year, the writer says, ‘It is brief, pointed, and clear; goes the whole length of utter banishment, and exhibits the most compendious view we have met with, of the great doctrines of temperance which are gaining such prodigious currency.”

His discourse on the nature of that inability which pre- vents the sinner from embracing the gospel, contains a clear and satisfactory elucidation of that very important, and to many minds difficult subject, and inculcates with singular force the practical lessons which his doctrine naturally suggests. He preached the substance of' this discourse in

rofaned by idle- ut the principal

1 a public print ) by a published n_ his replies to d attack on the to the contro-

Canada, on the ine, 1828, in an he Montreal So- und was widely ¢ ruinous effects consumption of o benefit; and person entirely s, unless requir- l was one of the ountry; and it a review of it in same year, the lear; goes the hibits the most great doctrincs ous currency.” lity which pre- ontains a clear portant, and to

5 with singular rine naturally his discourse in

published it by request of his congregation. " pronounced by competent judges to be the ablest, most

VEV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS, 53 two sermons in December, 1827, and immediately after It has been

comprehensive, and best written discussion of this subject which has ever issued from the press; and it is therefore inserted in this volume.

It may be suitable to mention here as belonging to this period, another tract communicated by him, and published by thc American Tract Society, being No. 252, entitled “Mary La Fleur.” It is a brief narrative of the conver-

- gion of her whose name it bears, at the period of the revival

ready to give a reason of the hope that was in her; which

of religion in his congregation. She had been educated in ‘the Romish system of her fathers, and no one could have had a firmer confidence in it. ‘ But,” says the writer, “the change in her was not too great for Him who made her to accomplish. He did it by imparting a keener per- ception of moral relations, and a quickened sensibility to moral truth. Thus it is that the influence of the Holy Spirit counteracts the delusion of sin, prepares the heart to receive the knowledge of Christ, and becomes an effectual corrective of the manifold forms of destructive error. No sinner thus enlightened can fail of seeing his own vileness, his exposure to endless misery, his inability to satisfy the justice of God, the free redemption through the cross of ‘Christ, and the necessity of personal holiness in order to eternal salvation.” When the subject of this narrative was taken by her Popish friends to the priest and required to confess what they deemed her soul-destroying heresy, she said to the confessor “ that she thought it needless to recount her sins to him, as she had already confessed them to Jesus Christ ; and believed herself forgiven; but that she was

i\4 AVWADVTE CYR DT

We dd nivel to the aiiaeeniené of the rtoat abe lad neces Weard oavely Viewe apd Coolie ee procaeel TT Wee BYR TD Pe ayy Wha Ted) Mitral ently ti the aire al pao With same Cint hape ot seat reowttino Wha beatles pave Ando Wiel Witle Woweotltted hy nye he eallettod iA] he eolaton of Tie pastoral veloute. te awwldel) tht elimpely nnd

Oonvoroma tian Were eanetratied: fa cen es nal Ube erate

Hon WAT} Chom Was diesalved: at a aeeting ot thee gates fervor Uorabey Ve hy porto, Urtahes 1. We wrote: (he ollow ann dreriorarndaay Oy ee ve TD eonenen: ting TOMO WN roadtenen oy New \ vk elty, fy vel nl mye wrt Med wre foe May with and aia fy ebdldben ateh miveel? are media with ow Tyler and mother, Mes nina Mire Jones. te whoee kindieecs weenne fideltod (ar a tame during this season of my hrability to aise lange iy pearl duties \tter earrving the frst proeteaheet of my o Mave Well Tretter te the printer TP oentered €he meeting of the proshy tery am dhe fourth day of tts sesstan, Up ay ap plieatwn By Tetrrer, previensivy forwarded: (home Vanvtarn the pastoral velavion subesrsting between me aid ay peaple ea Canada has been fFopmiallv dissolved. And thie da ams Dark at onee ent loose fron the place where fe tae been

Proedwed. ayordst shops and vals. For dione Chan lowe wears

Ln the lector Thom the ehurwh ¢o the proshytery, eoneur

me MN his wag ost to be roldased ther SA\ _ My this ae pavating fram our beloved pastor, while we are obliged to

submit to the paintal disponsation, we ean only add the ex

yvasstan of dar anferoned rogard for hin, our satisfredion

eth the faarhfal and able manwer in wihtel Tis winiste has been Talhileds ovr forwent prayers for his restoration

x

to health end weefalmess, and our solicitude that he may

tata Had eves 1 Whe wisn fee

sven OP PRO,

sta Nyenndtly Een ry

ealied tend Wilts Wha obapely nnd vy Wha ene ry unt (he prvaly 1h. lhe wrote (he Poscneervenneres iy rivit TITS Mn wlyat vy ohdldren with yvetlaen, Ma. rte lytod (roy Vee Winge Wey pela nl wt oof any | Wave ry ynoeting of the mn. Vyas my ay ‘row Vanbaaes ye wd any people Ayal (live ta Were it Waa boon

4) (tan four years

vsby tory, eonent we! hiv thus se ve are obliged (& \ onl vadal the ox your aatistvetion

viel Lig wiinisin

Wy his restoration

Rude that he ma)

HY COMO EE CORPO A Fy? a

a

Ags bee

B.. eno the Divine Denmedtothon

(dtr thee thier bene

ttl one tide Galige a fitrnl lenve oF Uenn

The Cillowinge | hi on ee the ‘1 pret of tia letter te the presbyter yur a oeonadon, dated Vrrnevboove ¥, (oon, P lth Oetober, pase

i“ 7 W) the Morlerator of the fival Ireahylery uf New Vurk

(Hrvenenn Ban, Clrenietaneos of a domeatio nature fiay prevent omy attendances at thie ineeting of the Preah tery My this communiontion PE owiah, in prtirmuanne of fitention whieh Eoliave duly made known to the ahi Boneorned, ti npyply fora asolution of the pasterral bs Which Pont present sustain to the Amerioan Preah . a Boviety of Montreal Lower Charade, ryterinn Vou haven rivht to know my reasons for teking ¢ atep ao dmportant ond solemn to then and te ime, and t will brietly vive thom. ‘Phey are iny present inability ty dis dharze the duties of the station, and the Tittle neobatiitiy

that my health would ever be better amidst the extremes of

aa that climate, and the toils imposed hy the peculiar state and ; tar ; sth tes F solitary postition of the fleld of labor. How theea aiaceans : hres successive es [havo been annually prostrated by the rapid and de

Dilitating transition from the rigor of winter to the heat of

bWmimer, and obliged to seck a renovation of health by ab #Ohoe and travelling, About fourteen months since, in view OF tho repeated attacks by which my conatitution and lif Were cndangered, [ determined finally to leave the is vince, and returned to Montreal with the intention afd : 80 without delay. While engaged in making the arr: < Ments for sucl sure, my sidduely an a such a measure, my health was suddenly and

‘RoR

a

etary

he MEMOIR OF THE

surprisingly restored, and such were the affectionate en. treaties of my people for my continuance among them, that T consented to make the experiment for another year, |

did so. But the trial has brought me to look ever the crumbling verge of the grave. The certificate of the high est medical authorities in your city, whieh T obtained in the month of August last, has since become wineeesaary to convinee any one, that T must not only leave Canada, but for some time, perhaps for ever, relinquish the much loved duties of the ministry.”

The Farewell Letter, above mentioned, to his churel and congregation, is inserted at the close of this volume, as an expression of his mind and heart, which of itself might suffiee to secure for him the love and gratitude of all who read it. It were superfluous to say any thing with a view to add to the interest of his performance, or render any of its

passages more striking or impressive, But the reader will

consider the circumstances in which it was produced : after months of painful debility, and in the midst of anxious un certainty for himself and his family ; at a distance from his friendsand the scenes of his usefulness ; and, in short, when encompassed with causes of depression and sorrow. In thi situation, like Paul in bonds writing to his Philippians and Thessalonians, he wrote to his people an epistle which fow men in health would find it easy to write, and whieh few in a like case would so much as think of attempting,— cneouraging, comforting, exhorting, and warning them, « afather doth his children. Let the reader turn to 1s Thessalonians, especially the three first chapters, and li will see with what feelings his soul was full. His church which had increased during his ministry from about twent) to one hundred and fifty members, was surrounded wit!

affectionate en yong them, that another year, | y look ever the eate of the high 1 L obtained in y UNNCCCSAATY {0 we Canada, hut the much loved

d, to his churel of this volume, a sh of itself might titude of all who thing with a view r render any of its But the reader will is produced : after fdst of anxious Wn i distance from his nd, in short, whev id sorrow. In thi o his Philippian ¢ an epistle which write, and whic! ik of attempting,— warning them, * feader turn to 1s t chapters, and Ii full. Wis church from about twent} s surrounded wit!

4 REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS, AY

he thick darkness of Popish error and delusion , and he ared lest, after his departure, grievous wolves might enter

An among them, not sparing the flock, He therefore gave

them this faithful testimony; and with the earnestness and eloquence of Christian love, counselled them for their present and eternal good.

Mr. Christmas now felt in a manner lost,—those official félations and duties, which both in sickness and in health had excited and directed his utmost exertions, being dis- solved, and his prospects of future health, employment and Usefulness being obseure and disheartening. Instead, however, of yielding to despondency and gloom, he at once summons up all his energies, and as it were with his eye

“upon the opening grave, begins his pilgrimage anew, resoly-

64 not to waste or lose a moment that remained to him. On the very day that his pastoral relation was dissolved, he commenced ina quarto volume the notices above quoted of his principal studies and writings while in Canada, and néar the bezinning of the book wrote the following :— “Phough convinced by painful experience of the futility of were resolutions, still as all that is valuable and perma- ment in character is founded on fized principles, which every man must have, and which most men will find it he- néficial to record and review, I proceed to express what Ought to be the leading principles of my life, and which, I pray God, may be transcribed in my future history.

“T devote myself and all I am, to the glory and service of God, whose I am, and whose I have professed to be in heart, for time and eternity.

é .

| ‘That I may best serve him, I am bound to promote and preserve the perfection of my corporeal, intellectual, and moral nature.

E

So

fyi MEMOIR OF TITB

‘ Bodily Nealth T have learned to be indispensable to the aequirement and communication of knowledge,

“Twill ever be a learner ; study first those things whieh are of greatest importanee, and will ever consider strenet) and diseipline of mind preferable to a mass of knowledge, and holiness of heart more desirable than an accumulation of learning.”

He continued to write in this book oeeasionally, till nea the close of 1820, of passing oecurrences, plans, and hint of “things to be done,” his feeble and discouraging stat of health, and the means of relief,

It remains very briefly to sketch the subsequent event of his life,

In December, 1828, he prepared for a voyage, as chaplair of one of the publie ships, whieh he hoped might benef his health. But there being more delay before he eoull sail than was consistent at that season with his feeble state he sailed early in January, 1829, for New Orleans, as ayer for the American Bible Society. Finding himself, on he arrival there, unfavorably affected by the climate, ani unable to speak in publie or make any considerable effor any way, he soon returned. On reaching his family, hi found that his youngest daughter had been ill during hi absenee, and was now near death. On the seventh oi April she was taken from them, aged six months, A fev days subsequent to this event, their other daughter, the: uearly three years old, was taken ill, and after a fortnight! struggle with disease and pain, was likewise removed 0: Lord's day morning, May third, as if in anticipation ¢ the release of both her parents.

Owing to these afflicting occurrences, and the fatigu and anxiety attending them, the health of Mrs, Christos

indispensable to nowledge.

hose things whieh consider streneth aa of knowledye, an accumulation

asionally, till nea , plans, and hint discouraging stab

subsequent event

voyage, as chaplain yped might beneti ry before he coull ith his feeble state, w Orleans, a8 ayer! ing himself, on Is the climate, an considerable effor ing his family, |i con ill during hi Yn the seventh ¢ x months, A. fev ver daughter, the: 1 after a fortnight kewise removed « in anticipation ¢

es, and the fatigl of Mrs. Christos

A REV. JOSEPH STINBS CHRISTMAS, rt)

ad already begun perceptibly to decline; and his being

iN ut, slihtly benefitted by his voyage, they accepted an inn

“Witation from their endeared friend Mr. Wilder, to pass “the summer at his residence in Bolton, Massachusetts, There Mr, Christmas’ health was in a considerable degree fecruited, and he preached to a newly formed chureh and Oonvregation in that place, and was urged to become their pastor. Mrs, Christmas, however, it was soon apparent, Was fast sinking under the effects of pulmonary consump- tion. Karly in July they returned to this city, and on the Lord's day, August ninth, after a rapid decline and much severe suffering, having vlorified her God and Saviour by her meck submission, her joy in the promises of the Gospel,

her faith and patience, her repeated testimony on behalf of

Vital picty, her perfect readiness and willingness to depart, 4nd her triumphant confidence in Him who is the Resur- fection and the Life, she fell asleep.

~The reader may imagine the tendency of this bereave- Ment upon sensibilities and affections like those of Mr. Ohristmas. Never were two persons more perfectly united in heart and mind, in taste and judgment, in their views and experience of religion, and in the whole aim and purpose of life than those now separated. The cup of grief could not fail at times to overflow, and at intervals he went to the grave to weep there.*

oh

et _ ~ a a serene

* No worthier tribute can be paid to their joint memory, than by quoting the following passage from a sermon on the advan- tages of Christianity over all other religions, which he preached om the second Sabbath preceding that on which his own death Occurred. This was the last sermon that he wrote; and by his @ndorsement on it, it appears thathe wrote it on the twenty-

60 MEMOIR OF TIIE

He had one unfailing resource, the throne of grace, tv which he constantly repaired ; and he now realized the in. estimable advantages of a well regulated and disciplined mind, by which he was enabled to regard events in their proper connections and relations, and to engage himself in duties of active obedience, instead of being paralyzed with sorrow, loneliness, pain, and discouragement. From some indications of returning health, he felt that Providenc might have something yet for him to do, and he girded

sixth and twenty-seventh of February, 1830, on one of whici days it is known that he took a walk to the place where his de- parted companion was buried. Having contrasted the principal! systems of false religion with Christianity, he dwells on the peculiar consolations and hopes of this divine religion, and in- troduces the following illustration :

‘‘T saw a mourner standing at eventide over the grave of on dearest to him on earth. The memory of joys that were pas came crowding{on his soul. ‘And is this,’ said he, ‘all that re- mains of one so loved and so lovely? I call, but no voice answers. Oh! my loved one, wilt thou not hear? Oh, death’ inexorable death! what hast thou done? Let me too die. | would not live always. Let me lie down and forget my sorrow in the slumver of the grave.’ While he thought thus in agony, the gentle form of Christianity came by. She bade him look upward, and to the eye of faith the heavens wére disclosed. [it saw the ineffable glory of God. He heard the song and th transport of the great multitude which no man can numbe! around the throne. There were the spirits of the just made per fect; there the spirit of her he mourned. Their happiness wai pure, permanent, perfect. ‘the mourner then wiped the tear from his eyes, took courage, and thanked God. ‘All the day: of my appointed time,’ said he, ‘ will I wait till my change come: and he returned to the duties of life)no longer sorrowing «

those who have no hope.”

one of grace, tv vy realized the in- ‘and disciplined 1 events in their ngage himself in ng paralyzed with ent. From some that Providence lo, and he girded

——

0, on one of whicu place where his de- rasted the principa! , he dwells on the ne religion, and in-

er the grave of ont oys that were past said he, ‘all that re call, but no volte ‘thear? Oh, death Let me too die. | nd forget my sorroy ought thus in agony, She bade him look 3 were disclosed. He d the song and the o man can numbet of the just made per Their happiness wo

then wiped the tear God. ‘All the day: till my change com¢ longer sorrowing *

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. 61

‘bimself anew for any service to which he might be called, “@nxious only to fill up what remained of life in such a “Manner as to be every moment ready for its termination.

- In the course of this season he wrote for the City Temperance Society an admirable “ Address to Physicians,” adapted to enlist their zealous co-operation in behalf of that cause. He also wrote for that society an appeal “ To Grocers,” tending to dissuade them from selling intoxicat- ing liquors; and likewise for the American Tract Society several prize handbill tracts, which were accepted and pub- lished.

_ About the first of October he accepted the unanimous

_ gall of the Bowery Presbyterian Church and congregation

to be their pastor ; and was installed as such on the four- teenth of that month. Here his ministerial and pastoral labors were in all respects abundantly acceptable, and be- sides being the means of the conversion of several of his hearers, his instructions, prayers and example, in public and private, were eminently such as to benefit his people, and rapidly to extend the sphere of his agency and in- fluence. In the midst, however, of his usefulness, and when hope was entertained that his health might be entirely re-established, he was after a brief illness suddenly @ajled hence on Sunday morning, March 14, 1830, aged twenty-six years and eleven months.

‘Having perfect possession of all his mental faculties, he, in full view of the near approach of death, employed several hours 72 devotional exercises and conversation. He prayed especially for his parents and other relatives, for his church, and for the interests of Zion generally. He said he had lately felt more than ever the value of the soul, and that in order to a more zealous and faithful perfor-

Qo WRAOUR OW Tren

maneo of hia dutiet aa a ominiater of the gospel, he tad dedieated Timeel® anew fo God and lad eomimneneed. a couree of visiting, exhortation, and prayer ommonp hi poople, when he took the eold whieh Drona ht on hia preaent ilIness

Minally, Waving satistietorily replied to wariona inqtinies respocting Nis Coolings fi view of the divine perfoetions and goverment, and hia hopes in the proapeet of death, having expressed his unwavering confidenee tn the atone mont and mediation of Christ, and lia joylit hope of the glory of God, he deliberately and with a poentiar solemnity and fixedness of mind, reviewed Wia whole Tle, and re commtod the principal events of it, eapeeially after he he ean to preach the gospel THe oeeasionally paused, and fwely confessed and condemned what appeared to Ihave been wrong in feeling, motive, or aetion, in the progress ol his history ; and he gratefully acknowledged and devoutly praised God for the varied and manifold goodness whieh he had expertoneed, and especially rendered thanks for the divine Messing whieh had been vouehsafed on his labors at Montreal, St. Andrews, and othor places. Having finished this review, he turned his thoughts to the glorious mothod of salvation revealed in the gospel, whieh for some time engrossed and absorbed his whole attention. — Being nearly exhausted, and searecly able to articulate, he said, VT eommend my soul to the Lord Jesus Christ, who, as | trust, sanctified and saved my dear departed wife, and who, T doubt not, has reecived to himself also my two ehil dren, whom Lt now expect soon to meet in glory.” He continued in alternate prayer and praise till his hand, falling: on his breast, gave notice that he had ceased to breathe.

graapel, he tad A commenced a ‘oy open Th ton hia present

wanton Hqiiivies vine perfoetions: vapeet af death, yee tn the ntone yl lope of th jmenting solemnity hale Tle, and. re dally after he Iw wally parsed, and vpperved to Have in the progress of rod and devoutly soodness whieh ‘od thanka for the fod on hia labors places, Having hts to the glorious 1. whieh for some attention, — Being rtieulate, he said, Christ, who, as | ted wife, and who, my two chil dren, He continued

and, falling on iis breathe,

HEV, JOSEPH STEN CUMRIST WAS 4

it Tn nttompting a eurvey of the charnetor of Mr Chiriet wt Qe, it aeons proper firet. to obaerve that in porson hoes eons Bender and well proportioned, with a finely formed hood His featured were regular and beautiful, id there waa

entlonous and benignity in them and in his voice anil Manner, whieh had their effeet on all who saw on he | hin, and wore a happy index to his mind and heart

He xoomed to possess the various 1m nial fasulties in equal perfeotion, and to eultivate each and all with the fame case and the same suceoss. There was aueh a balunce of the Kovernl powers, they operated with such ease and har mony, and his whole intellectual strength was put forth with Stich readiness and facility, that there scarcely appeared any thing like offort, cither in the employments of his study, in his conversation, or his public exercises. Pn conten platin,, him, one did not think of a youth precocious in HOMe single respect, or of vA man excelling in the power of iMagination, reason, invention, or judgment, but almost Whavoidably forvot all such distinctions » as in viewing any

’ model of art, wo think not of the parts into which it might

be divided, but are oceupicd with the impression which results from the completeness and simplicity of a just Mbination.

© It was doubtless owing, in some degree at least, to this happy constitution, physical and intellectual, that his men- tal associations and exercises were, as if by a natural law, of the same felicitous cast. He possessed the power of as- sociation and combination in a very high degree; and he so employed it that the distinct and comprehensive associa- tions of ideas which were established in his mind, might be described, like a well written essay or sentence, as wanting no essential constituent, and comprising on the one hand

4 NEMOTR OF THE

nothing unsuitable or superfluous, and on the other th vivid pereeptions of the understanding, in connection with the requisite touches of imagination and taste,

Ihe was execedingly qhick to pereeive the relations and proportions of objects, whether physical or mental, ‘There soemed to be spontaneously a justness, completeness, ani harmony, in his first views and impressions, and by follow ing them he eame rapidly to results, to whieh minds dif forently gifted would arrive only by slow and cireuitous methods,

This harmony of his mental powers was only heightened, and, as it were, attuned by his affections, which were as constantly exereised as his intellect. Whether it was from habit or from original tendencies, this joint exereise of the in tolleetual and moral powers was very conspicuous in him. It scemed to be against the law ofhis being to regard or medi: tate upon any thing apart from its moral relations; while at the same time he had the liveliest sensibility to truth, rectitude, propriety, and whatsoever is good and lovely, and an entire aversion to every thing of an opposite character.

These brief hints may prepare the way fora more parti cular delineation af some of the features of his character, the details of which are suggested by the recollections of an intimate aequaintanceship and an atteative perusal of his writings,

The first and most obvious characteristic to be noticed is, the remarkable purity and simplicity of his mind, No one who knew him could fail to be impressed with this trait or to pereeive how strikingly it was in keeping with the natural delicacy of his pereeptions and feelings, his reli gious principles and habits, and the rectitude, benevolence, constancy, and decision of his character.

. the other thi eonmection with

ale,

ie relations and mt =

montal. Phere

mpleteness, anil a, and by follow whieh minds dif yw oand eirenitous

only heightened, ia, Which were as rother it was from t exercise of the in ictous in him. Tt to regard or med 1 relations; while msibility to truth, od and lovely, and yposite characte ; y for a more part of his character, recollections of an tive perusal of his

stie to be noticed of his mind. No sed with this trait keeping with the

feelings, his rel itude, benevolence,

REV, JOSEPH STIBDS CHRISTMAS, ie

It was casy to perevive that his mind was fortified and uarded hy his principles, anid enriched with congenial

jews and associations, ‘The associations which so lnrwely

i

“Dooupied it, taking their rise from leading elasses of objects,

wore as if moulded and harmonized, one suit after another, as his knowledge was extended, ‘Thus his taste for natural sooncry, his pereeption of the beauty of material objects, May be presumed to have presented the first occasion for the establishment of a class of associations, the presence of Which was indicated by his efforts at drawing and painting, and which at a subsequent period the imagination partially bodied forth in poetry.

These associations, doubtless, were strengthened by time, and by all those respecting other subjects, which were after- wards formed; for in hismature years he had an exquisite sense of the beauty of the works of creation, and could with his pen or pencil impart his vivid and accurate perceptions and impressions to others. Neither his natural simplicity, his unsophisticated taste, nor the justness of his percep- tions were impaired by the progress of time, the increase of Garcs, or the influence of books and society.

At the most critical period of his life the divine influence of religion was interposed to regulate and sanctify his purposes and affections, to supersede the love of art, and to Festrain the indulgence of imagination. A new world of infinite interest and endless prospect was opened to his view. Here was a supreme object of perfect excellence, and scope for the exercise of every affection. The love and service of God in compliance with the gospel became his ruling passion, and his soul was bent on the purity, holiness, and happiness of heaven.

In view of these observations, though they cast but a

when pk op lae MON Aes bec att if ii |

66 MEMOIR OF THE

feeble light upon the subject, it will not be thought strange that remarkable purity and simplicity of mind is ascribed tohim, It has been attempted rather to show how well this trait comported with his mental constitution and habits, than to do justice to it as a feature of his character. It gave a charm and a lustre on the one hand, to his amia- bleness and his piety as an individual, and on the other, 1

dignity, and even a venerableness to his character and example, as a teacher and minister of religion. It appeared spontaneously in all his thoughts, words and actions, in his conversation, manners and deportment, in the intimacy of

private friendship, and the engarements of public life. This feature of his mind may be observed every where in hig writings; not only in those respects in which it ] would be most obvious to notiee it, but in his method of treating his subjects, not only in the absence of whatever is ! incompatible with it, but in the simplicity of his views, and

the sanctifying tendency of his instructions.

It scarcely needs to be observed how great an advantage | he enjoyed in this respect, over those who ia early life give | undue scope to some passion, fall into some vicious habit, 1 | or yield to the temptations of bad example; and whose | imaginations and feelings become vitiated and ungovern- able. Hven should they come to possess unquestioned piety, the retrospect of such tiings must be painful, and their influence will be likely in many ways to be pernicious, notwithstanding the utmost efforts to discipline the mind, restrain the fancy, and regulate the thoughts and feclings. Happy they who determine from their earliest youth reso- lutely and perseveringly to resist every temptation, to res- pect theniselves and their immortal destiny, and to guard every avenue to their minds against the intrusion of evil.

oucht strange id is ascribed 1ow how well stitution and his character. 1, to his amia- m the other, « character and 1. It appeared actions, in his he iniimacy of public life.

ed every where 3 in which it his method of sof whatever Is f his views, and

it an advantage 1 early life give

vicious habit, ble; and whose and ungovern- s unquestioned be painful, and o be pernicious, pline the mind, nts and feelings. iest youth reso- mptation, to res: y, and to ouard

trusion of evil.

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. 67

s Happy they who know least of the evils which exist in the

+ world, whose minds have not lost their native modesty and - diffidence, and who J.ave not deceived themselves, nor been

~ deccived by others into the false and pestilent opinion that

whatever is evi! and corrupting, to be hated and shunned, needs only to be heard or witnessed.

It occurs next to mention the pervading influence of his piety, as worthy of distinct consideration.

The spirit of Christian piety, of love to God, benevolence to man, and universal obedience, pervaded his character and constituted the clement of his feelings, purposes and

conduct. He exhibited ia this respect a consistency xof

¢haracter in all the relations he sustained, and the changes he experienced, which is lamentably rare. It appeared not merely in his devotions and other religious exercises, but in his constant walk and conversation, his habits and

employments, his temper and deportment, his conscien-

tiousness, humility and self-denial, his prudence, consider- ateness, and care to avoid evea the appearance of evil. Religion occupying the sources of emotion, the springs of action, reigned in his affections and sympathies, and stamped its impress on his opinions, habits, and manners. No one could for a moment imagine it to be secondary to apy other influence or object, whether regarding him in his individual, social, or publiccapacity. Far from consisting i an insulated set of notions and feelings, to be called up on certain occasions, it held a supreme sway, and was the chosen and all sufficient means of his happiness ; happiness flowing from the state of reconciliation, the harmony ex- isting between his feelings, desires and purposes, and the divine perfections, laws and requirements. Hence his de- light in all the duties and exercises of religion, public and

fi 3

iF 14

MEMOIR OF TILE

private, especially in that of prayer; and the utter insuffi. ciency of all other means of enjoyment and objects of pur- suit.

The same order and simplicity prevailed in this respect as in the rest of his character. The things of religion lay in his mind in their due relations, connecting the high in- terests of the soul and of eternity with the duties and privileges of every hour; and with all their influence con- straining him to have nothing else to do, no object of de- sire or pursuit but to glorify God by active obedience and patient suffering.

He diligently studied the books of scripture and of provi- dence; and while his mind was entirely made up in regard to the doctrines and requirements of religion, as well as the necessity of practising it in order to salvation, he felt that to serve and glorify God by obedience, was alonc Worthy the pursuit and consistent with the present and future happiness of a rational and accountable being. The great themes of revelation were present to his mind in their connection with the glory of God, and the charac- ter and destiny of man. An enlightened apprehension of the method of salvation, the wonders of redeeming love, the infinite revenue of glory to be secured by the divine government from the agency of creatures ; and on the other hand, a lively and huuiliating conviction of the prevalence and the evil of sin, the miserable condition of the impeni. tent world, and his own personal obligations to be holy, and to lay himself out to diffuse abroad the influence o! Christian love, and the blessings of salvation ; such were the solemn and heart-stirring considerations in view of which he thought and acted, It was not the contracted project of a party, nor any thing peculiar to a sect, that

The utter insuflt. 1 objects of pur-

1 in this respect +3 of religion lay ting the high in-

the duties and oir influence con- no object of de- ve obedience and

ure and of provi- ade up in regard ligion, as well as salvation, he felt ience, was alone the present and countable being. sent to his mind 1, aud the charac- apprehension ol f redeeming love, red by the divine - and on the other of the prevalence ion of the impeni: tions to be holy, the influence 0 ation ; such were itions in view o not the contracted liar to a sect, that

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CIIRISTMAS. 69

4 engaved his affe f ste j affections and characterized his piety; but

“that boundless philanthrophy, benevolence, and good will,

which was displayed in the mission of the Saviour, and

a

which, though it embraces the whole universe, and secks to reclaim and save the whole race of man, and to deliver the world from wickedness and misery, yet exerts all its énergy in the patient, humble, self-denying performance of present duty; it was that love which suffercth long and is kind, which envieth not, vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not its own is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, rejoiceth not : iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, and never faileth. Alas ! that this spirit should so welders have a decided ond uniform sway, over the temper and conduct, that felicion should so seldom supersede all other aiects of regard; that the exercise of the affections in tha love of God and his kingdom, should not oftener extinguish selfish feclings, and confer that degree of pure enjoyment and those bright anticipations, with which nothing would willingly be permitted to interfere. Alas! that apathy on the one hand, and false zeal on the other, zeal arising from errors and illusions of the imagination, disregarding the facts and lessons of experience and the sobe: dictates of 90d sense, and requiring novelty and extravagance, both of object and method,—should ever usurp the place of that piety, which, engrossing the heart, employs itself in the plainest and commonest duties, and in unceasing efforts of Obedience to all the commands of God. . a Another feature of his character deserving to be dis tinctly mentioned, was seen in the influence of his prii ip ples over his conduct. ee te | To say that he acted from principle, would convey but

H if BE:

sey ote ORSON | 1 MO TTT

70 MEMOIR OF THE

a faint impression of what is intended. It seemed essen- tial to his satisfaction to perceive and feel the obligation, reason, or principle, in compliance with which he was to act. It suited his views and feelings to dwell on the laws and precepts of the Bible, as rules of conduct of divine au. thority and perpetual obligation. He delighted’ in the law of God, and, in the performance of duty, derived pleasure from knowing and perceiving that God, in his boundless wisdom and goodness, required it. He had no idea, as he somewhere writes, of happiness apart from holi- ness, nor of holiness apart from intelligent obedience, the doing of known duty in view of the true reasons for it, the performance of right acts from right motives. Hence he studiously gave to his principles, and to the great truths and facts of reason and revelation, all possible sway over his feelings and conduct; and his mind rested on them with unwavering confidence. And hence, what has seem- ed strange to many, the perfect inflexibility of his charac ter, the constancy of his purpose, the firmness of his reso- lution, when called on to meet any question of principle.

And hence, also, the independence of his mind, the cour. age and confidence with which he investigated every sub- ject for himself, and followed evidence wherever it led. From what has already been said, the reader may easily imagine how well he knew what constituted evidence, and how much satisfaction the perception of it afforded him. It was not enough for him that others believed, allowed, or practised ; he was not content until he saw the reason, and his hands as it were handled the evidence. This with his love of truth, his reverence of the divine authority, and his sense of obligation, guarded him against rash conclu: sions, and led him cheerfully to renounce whatever he

t seemed essen- | the obligation, which he was to well on the laws uct of divine au- lelighted’ in the f duty, derived hat God, in his it. He had no apart from holi- it obedience, the reasons for it, the tives. Hence he the great truths yssible sway Ove! rested on them , what has seem: ity of his charac aness of his res0- tion of principle. is mind, the cour igated every sub- wherever it led. eader may easily ted evidence, and > it afforded him. believed, allowed, he saw the reasol, lence. This with ine authority, and Kinst rash conclu nce whatever he

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. G1

3 found to be erroneous, and to adopt what he found to be 7 in accordance with the law and the testimony.

There was a directness and steadiness in his perceptions

and aims, corresponding to the integrity and constancy of his mind, which tended to give his principles a uniform sway

over his feelings as well as his conduct, and which allowed no place to fickleness, ambiguity, or indecision. This part of his character was advantageously manifested in the great Variety of his experience in the different situations in which he was placed ; in the alternations of prosperity and adver- sity, favor and opposition, ease and suffering, joy and grief. There was that about his temper and deportment in these diversified circumstances, which could not fail to satisfy those who were intimate with him, that it was his reliance,

mot upon feelings but principles, that sustained him, and ‘that he was not less under their sway and influence when

@nseen by mortal eyes, than when in the midst of society. It were a salutary exercise for any one of kindred views and feelings, to follow such a mind into its retirement ; there, apart from the world to lay its cares at the foot of the cross, and by faith in the principles and facts of reli- gion, the truths and promises of the Bible, to converse with the unseen world and worship God. The exercises and meditations proper to such an occasion, are adapted to trans- form the mind, raise it above all selfish interests and pas- sions, captivate it with the purity and benevolence of the Gospel, and cause it to realize and feel that the yoke of self- denying obedience and patient suffering, isthe highest pri- vilege and honor to be attained or diesived on earth, by the followers of him who loved us and gave himself for us. In addition to these general views of his character, it "remains to mention some particulars in which his example was worthy of imitation.

MEMOIR OF THE

1. In regard to the leading object and purpose of’ his life,

The one single object for which he lived, was fo glorify God, by obedience to his will. This he kept in view in all his plans, designs, and efforts, —1t was obedience as a mat- ter of personal and indispensable obligation, which modified and gave point to his purposes and exertions,

In one of his acts of self-dedication, he thus begins : “| devote myselfto the glory and service of God: and from numerous indications in his writings, it is evident that this was the particular view which he cherished, and to which he constantly had reference, Far from considering reli- gion a mere matter of privilege to be passively enjoyed, he felt the forse of those precepts which require universal and perpetual obedience ; and having cordially enlisted in the service of God, he surveyed the field of effort, considered what was to be done, and especially what he was to do, and applied himself to the performance of his duty.

Te was aware that the purpose for which he lived requir ed not only labor, perseverance, patience, and faith, but likewise self-denial, and a constant warfare with the powers of evil. Nevertheless, he chose it, and continued to choose it, with all the efforts and sacrifices it involved, and wa never more disposed to abound in effort and self-denial, than in the last weeks of his life. He closes the sermon preached a fortnight before his death, on the advantages o! Christianity, already referred to, with the following sen tences:

‘“ Christianity is all want. It meets my case as a sin- ner, as a sufferer, as an immortal being, as a creature de sirous of happiness. It supplies every want, anticipates every desire, fills the soul, and in the end saves the whole

purpose of his

was fo glority 1t in view in all licence as a mat which modified is, hus begins : ‘1 fod: and from evident that this sd, and to which considering relt- ively enjoyed, he ire universal and ly enlisted in the effort, considered he was to do, and s duty. ch he lived requir ce, and faith, but re with the powers mntinued to choos involved, and was t and self-denial, closes the sermon the advantages ¢! the following se

B my case as a sit: as a creature de want, anticipate d saves the whole

reey de?

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS.

I am rationally and fully convineed by its evt-

, . . . . , ° dence. | believe the promises of this holy book, the word

f God. Twill yield myself in obedience to its precepts Z will do my utmost through life to spread its triumphs. I

will hope for its consolations in the darkest night of sorrow ;

. . . :

and in the dissolution and wreek of nature I will cling to o ae ? 2 nie . . : 4

this last plank, assured that it will carry me through the i

4 DG i

surging billows, to the peaceful shore of eternity. So may fi . rf ae it be ; and to God shall be glory evermore, through the a ’ e © : a

merits of the Lamb that was slain.” 4 This singleness of | lis singleness of purpose had many advantages. In i

;

general, it left but one question to be determined, namely : it What was it his duty to do? Its paramount sway a i influence tended to counteract and prevent the risings -of ‘ a@lfishness, to exclude all sinister views and objects ; and to ' Head him to study and imitate the example of the saviour tc \ imbibe his spirit ; to dwell on the design of his vacdintarial 1

work and vovernment, and constantly to renew his deter HH] mination, whatever j , i AL co T's if

; urse others might pursue, to do all in k

"

4

his: ae} € ré IA } power to advance the interests and honor of truth and

righteousness. : Ht was in comformity with his object and his views, that | ‘ a my U a @was ever anxious to perform what he undertook, in the / best manne ° nner he was capable of. He spared no pains with t

Cc . e . respect to matter or manner, either in his preparations, or “)

in-the performance of duty. He kept his eve steadil

his'object, as conscious of the divine inspection and aes | ous to be accepted in ail that he did. He eee: rre eH V to discipline his mind by systematic studies oa i 4 and that he might neither lose any time, nor be un ces " for his public services, when his state of health ke q permit him to write, he often dictated his sermons to pe I

74 MEMOIR OF ‘TTIE

amanuensis. There are among his m:uscripts a consider. able number which were written in this way, chiefly who travelling or at some place ot temporary sojourn, and when such efforts, though doubtless in his orinion very necessary, must have been very difficult. hese sermons do not appear to be inferior to those generally which he wrote himself, They bear all the marks of his habits of thinking and his style of composition.

He likewise, when feeble and depressed and in danger of crowing inactive and useless, was in the habit of reading Kuclid daily, and other works of similar tendency, in order to sustain and preserve the powers and tone of his mind.

Finally, his view of the object of life and his sense of obligation led him to urge upon c:hers the immediate per. formance of their duty. He was perfectly assured that the gospel, as the means of the conversion and sanctification of men, was designed and every way adapted, by its authority and its array of motives and sanctions, to produce present. immediate effects ; and he preached it under that conviction and for that end, with all earnestuess and fidelity, urging instant compliance with its requirements. The following passage on this point is from the close of one of his sermons, ‘‘On the means of Grace,” and will, it is presumed, be read with interest. -

‘‘ There are two methods pursued by ministers ant professing Christians in their directions to inquiring sin- ners, one of which is unwarranted and therefore dangerous. the other is scriptural and therefore safe. When thos who pursue the first method are asked by any one, Wha' must I do to be saved? they tell him to repent and believe and so far correctly. When the sinner replies, that hi cannot do it, they tell him ‘to pray to God to give him:

&

pts a consider:

- chiefly wheu

urn, and when very necessary, 18 do not appear , wrote himselt. hinking and his

ind in danger of rabit of reading ndency, in order ne of his mind. and his sense 0! 1e immediate per Ly assured that the d sanctification 0! 1, by its authority p produce present. Jor that conviction nd fidelity, urging s, The followin: ne of his sermons. it is presumed, he

by ministers ant s to inquiring sit erefore dangerous Lafe. When thos by any one, W hai yepent and believe er replies, that hi God to give him!

STIBBS CHRISTMAS. ) de

REV. JOSEPH

. ten} Le ) 0 li ) at the ord) fay MY ® pe | of the

‘“ Now this : s counsel given to an inqui p D a r| . to stifle his convictions, 7% 6 inquirer, directly tends ih’. My pictions, ts a virtual relinguishment $§ C (hL7) , ‘. . P . ( hat non the heart, is an inconsistent direction z Nhat Ws as er - y v Ue z... $ as diffi ult as repentance itself, and is ¢ | pare direction and scriptural ¢ chp eo hae Z & Ile. 4 4 uch a counsel directly ‘ends to stifle a sinner’ etions. is nt : a sinners con- the force be suai was ceen disturbed. He feel : eels a it is sient demanus upou his love and obediene t is an unwilli C; apd a sense onan »8 to comply with these diggers as at he must if ae would é: \ ; uld be save Be cars with anguish, Fust-aiil be saved, that wrings oD : “ c ils time his ..e Wide, instea “ : us spiritué . ie the . a pressing home his obligations, di an pe eans, and lie at the pool, waiting God’ Pee lad to catch at an tl 1 ’ Ing (rod s time , a, i anything rather than immediatel th them, he uses the means, and ately comply readsand prays, and think ’ prays and reads, and acic es iinks he is now doing his d "ay science is relieved, his distress disa Terapia aia soles himself wit! the tl : appears, and he con- OD wot be hia £ i the thought, that if he is not saved i iis fi r ; e and his fears all ault. ‘hus are his convictions quencl : ars allayed, by saying peace, pec 1€¢ mo peace. The temporary relief th ‘fi ie when there is why su : us afforded is t . N 4 ch preaching and such directions a he reason y the unregenerate, and why it is called pe Nee leads t H . alled s rine to preach immediate submission, a ci uch hard doc- sometimes solicits a minis »Acircumstance which oft & minister to waive the plai ; a. e plain dealing “] n the next ne place, such a direction is a vi quishment of God’s clai irection 1s a virtual relin Bilbets to th aim on the heart. When the sj ’ 1 oO sn2 ° , : e gospel injunction to repent, tl sana , that he ‘cannot,’

ey} fae 4 ct i 13 4 3 4

76 MEMOIR OF THE

he is only expressing his repugnance to the duty. It is not true that he cannot, in any other sense than that he will not. To direct him then to ‘use the means,’ in order to get perchance a better heart, is to allow that the objection is valid. Of consequence it follows that God has no right to make such a demand, and the sinner is under no obliga. tion to comply with it. The point in controversy betwee God and the sinner, viz., his claim on the heart, is con. eeded to the sinner, and his spiritual guide authorizes him for the present to render something else and something less than his heart, viz., an attendance on the means; au- thorizes him to continue a little longer in rebellion against God, authorizes him to cherish his heart of enmity until God shall give him a better.

‘Tn the next place, such a direction is inconsistent, for it calls on him to do what is as repugnant to the sinncr’s feeling as repentance itself. It is presumed that no one who gives such a direction, would advise the sinner to read and pray and hear in an unbelieving and impenitent manner. But to use these means with penitence and faith, implies that he has already done the duty which th: direction evades,

“ And finally, such a direction is contrary to scriptural instruction and example. The Bible nowhere admits that the sinner cannot comply with his duty. It nowhere directs him to use the means of grace in order to get: heart to repent. It fearlessly directs him to repent, taking it for granted that he can if he will, and there it leaves the matter, and there it leaves the sinner to meet the con- sequences of impenitence.

‘Tn accordance with this is every direction given ti sinners by the preachers of holy writ. Isaiah says, Wasl

he duty. It is © than that he means,’ in order nat the objection ‘od has no right under no oblig: troversy betwee ic heart, is cov. ¢ authorizes him » and something 1 the means; au- -yebellion against t of enmity until

$3 inconsistent, for nt to the sinner’s med that no one ise the sinner to ¢ and impenitent th penitence and ie duty which the

trary to scriptural Lwhere admits thet uty. It nowhere in order to geta 1 to repent, taking

nd there it leave r to meet the cor:

direction given ti Isaiah says, Wasl

rd (

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS.

ou, nuthe you clean, put away the evil of your doings,

eease to do evil, learn to do well. He calls upon t the wicked nun to forsake his way, and the unr ighteous man

This thoughts. Jeremiah calls upon backsliders in Isracl to vircumcise themselves to the Lord, and take away the fore- skins of their hearts. Ezckiel says, Cust away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have offended, and make you anew heart and anew spirit.. Joel calls upon sinners in danger to turn unto the Lord with all their hearts. John the ee came preaching in the wilderness, saying, Repent yc, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. When the Redeemer began to preach, he said, Repent ye, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand. The apostles, in their preaching, made the same unqualified demand of imme-

fate repentance, When the three thousand on the day of ae said, Men and brethren, what must we do? the only direction the apostle gave them was, epent and be baptized, every one of you, for the remission of sins. Op another occasion he said to the multitude, /epent ye, therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out. James says, Cleanse your hunds, ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double minded. In all these in- stances there was no allowance made for the moral impo- tence of sinners. The duty of sinners was pointed out, and the obligation enforced ; but there was no direction to pray to get the disposition to do their first aud immediate duty. Nor dare we, if we would conform to apostolical example, pursue a different course.

“Tf it be said that this places sinners in a hard ease, we reply, that they cannot be placed in any different situ- ation until they repent. It is the situation their own impenitence places them in, nor can any relief be warrant-

prate, Se

78 MEMOIR OF THE

ably given until they do repent. The gospel has not 4 word of encouragement until you do this; and when this is done, it is all merey, and there will be time enough to offer the balm of its consolations. There is no by-road to heaven, there is no entrance to the narrow way but by th straight gate. We must exhort you to repent and believe the gospel. We dare direct to nothing as a substitute fo: this, to nothing which implies its procrastination. For there is no time to lose. The next resolve may be, Cw him down, why cumbereth he the ground. The next dis covery of the sinner may be that he is in a world where i: is too late to repent. Our next mecting may be at the ba of God, where you shall not have it to say that you wer directed to use the means and wait God’s time, instead 0: immediate repentance, and a cordial surrender of yow whole hearts to your Creator, Benefactor, Redeemer, ani Judge.”

II. There was much that is worthy of imitation in hi views of doing good,—of the manner of exerting his agen: so as both to glorify God and benefit his fellow-men.

It has already been observed that the principle of hi conduct was obedience to God. It was in compliance with this rule that he endeavored to do good to his fellor men. It was this, in distinction from mere sympathy an feeling, and from all personal, worldly, and tempor motives, and in distinction from a mere imitation of other and from that indifference and listlessnes which affects « regard the good result to be accomplished by action, whi: the obligation of the agent, the principle in obedience t which acceptable actions must be performed, is overlooki. or disregarded.

He took a wide survey of the condition of his fellor

osptl has not a - and when this time enough to is no by-road to » way but by th epent and believe g a substitute for rastination. For olve may be, Cw d. The next dis na world where tt ‘may be at the bat say that you wer 's time, instead 0 urrender of youl or, Redeemer, an!

of imitation in hi exerting his agent

s fellow-men.

he principle of hi was in compliance

» good to his fellor: nere sympathy au:

dly, and tempor

imitation of other

es which affects t hed by action, whi:

ple in obedience '

brmed, is overlook.

Nition of his fellor

head

REV. JOSEPIL STIBBS CHRISTMAS, 79

reatures and of the divine dispensations towards them.

44

5

. Ocgasioning harm.

ithe nical: law, ha gospel, ana the retributions of atecniéy, “as presenting an object of unspeakable interest to every benevolent mind, and as claiming unlimited benevolent exertion, he felt that the supreme and primary rule and aim of every action must be to obey and glorify God. With the utmost solicitude for the renovation and salva- tion of men, he felt how narrow was the sphere in which his own agency could be directly employed to benefit them, and how liable he was to cause or be the occasion of detri- ment ; that his doings must be limited to prayer, and the presentation of motives to their minds, to persuade and in- duce them to obey the gospel, while a thousand opposing influences were at work, and the period of probation

Fapidly passing away.

It was with such views that he prepared for the pulpit —for the offering up of prayer and supplication, and the presentation of motives in his sermons. It was with such views that he estimated the motives to be presented by hig manner, his temper, his consistency, his whole de- meanor, and felt how incompatible it would be with his design, and how repugnant to the influence of the Holy eerit, for him to act out of character in these respects.

» With his views on this subject, his acute sense of re- sponsibility, and his conscientiousness, it can be no wonder that it was a well considered and cardinal point with him, in every attempt to do good, to beware of doing or To do some evil by rashness, negli- gence, or some other fault in matter ov manner, while endeavoring to do good, was no more eons‘stent’ with his

_ ideas of obedience, nor any wore excusable in his view of

nit See i EN i ec ainsi anes hp ic.

Si) MEMOIR OF TUE

obligation, than to do or cause the like evil without any such endeavor. He was in this, as in other respeets, hi own severest censor, and had too clear a view of his. obli- gations, the relations of his conduct, and the sphere li was to move in, to deceive himself in this matter. — [ were needless to say how far removed he was in this part of his character from those who merely follow the blind impulses of’ feeling, and the dreams of unrestrained imazi- nation ; and whose activity and enjoyments, indifference and gloom, alternate as their feelings are exhilarated or depressed. The fourth, fifth, and first ten verses of th sixth chapter of Paul’s second . Epistle to the Corinthians, may be referred to as exhibiting in the most striking man- ner, the model on which as a Christian and a minister hi was formed; as happily portraying the motives and rules which actuated and governed him; the views he enter | tained of his personal and official obligations and duties.

and of his place and relations, as a responsible agent co- operating with God; the experience in which he largely shared, the holy affections, the exalted hopes, and divin 1

joys, which filled his soul and raised him above the world. Whoever shall study and enter into the spirit of thos a chapters, will understand his views of doing good mor I perfeetly than they can be deseribed. V

The nature and province of moral influence constituted h a favorite subject with him, and claimed a large share ol d study and reflection, which doubtless aided him in the r

acquisition of the clear and definite ideas which he had 0! a the attriby..cs of moral agency, and of the nature of obli Be gation, of virtue or holiness, and of sin. Ie was favore 01

by the possession of an unusual share of common sen: and of taat practical wisdom, aptitude, and judgmen

wil without any ier respeets, hi new of his. obli- the sphere h his matter. lt was in this part follow the blind restrained imaui- nts, indifference © exhilarated or ten verses of th the Corinthians, ost striking man- nd a minister hi notives and rules » views he enter tions and duties, onsible agent co- hich he largely ,opes, and divin above the world. e spirit of thos doing good mor

renee constituted a large share 6! ided him in the which he had ©! ie nature of obli

He was favore:

f common sen:

and judgmet:,

Gy

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS, &1

which adheres closely to faets and principles, and selects

“the best means for the attainment of ends. It was by Firtue of these qualities that he knew so well how to adapt

himself to every description of persons, and how to con- ¥ince and persuade them by exciting an appropriate exer- cise of their own minds, assisting them to clear and just perceptions of their character, accountability, and duty, and presenting the requisite motives.

He cordially approved, encouraged, and promoted, the great objects of evangelical benevolence, and was ever ready to render them the utmost service in his power. There are among his papers a dozen or more addresses, whieh were delivered by him at public meetings of Bible, Missionary, Mducation, Tract, Sunday school, and other ‘weiotics, besides a number of brief sketches and references ~s other similar addresses, and several sermons upon the Same subjects. Ife was among the earliest and most efficient promoters of the temperance reformation, which he continued to aid by his example, his voice, and his pen, to the close of his life.

His attention to the subject of missions while inquiring asto the path of duty for himself, and after choosing and haying in view a missionary life, awakened an interest Which never subsided. The wretched condition of the human race, the unlimited resources of the gospel, and the duty of those individually and collectively, who have expe- rienced its blessings, were continually before his mind: and he regarded with intense interest the missionary service, and those events of Providence, and movements of the Church, by’ which the cause of redeemine merey was advanced.

Ill. His diligence and his great and persevering efforts to accomplish what he undertook. | 7

eS ee ee

pas Sera ARI Mire Recipe Warde pot

x

zeae octal scrim EAN

as

VN WOT OV

OE Nis diligonee Hay be anportiinater ta selel nny thine exeopt that there was order and eyaton ta tia dadefite ohh, raed yy Veowae (ara tone tie Dia praetion at Che elas MH ovely week. fa creview and nate dower what te tad dan my (he ountervaly amd fo aleetely da nmmerieah order (h Hines ty be poutally mdonded da, the pastoral vietta do dy made, the subpeets do be atudiod, the bookea ta Jr veel A theensmine week Qeeastonaliy Teo nade a Tee rete tu: ol loner periods and: Tatd owt a oplacof Gite and men oxtended oflorts and atiidios Wspoorially id lhe le (Ih ON ANY portant ehanoe ta hia eiremmataneed, and. wit parhiontiay veferenee fo books and means of preparation t WHIVE BEFVTER

Raut he was ne lose persevering Chan diltoen Aw |

entered pon every undertaking with a strane: seaae «

daty, and echershed a lively eonvietion of hia obliontion

andoas his leading objeet and purpose avad fo plorify Gh

by obedience to his will, the neeessity of porseveranes, |

renewed and protracted effort, seemed to have no tenden

fo diseonrage or fatiene. Reing satished as to what v

lis duty and heartily delighting in it, if was a part of ti

sysiom to make oreat and persevering efforts do aeeompls

Waal he Undertook \\ Te moriis to be commemorated as an exempla

practice m him, that Ae /

) * u < ) ooked FOr, TEeSTVCT and expected t

rosudis of Ris pmayers and efforts, both here wi e . A

viewed his own ageney equally with other objeets, |

iis Connections and relations; and its known ov antierpat

resulis were the oceasion of serious thought and soliettud

As an accountable agent, and. eo-worker with God, he |

ean estimate on his prayers and efforts, as to

j onde any lin

Kia dade Pi thoabh etien ah Che elas Ayt tre Tel clon ortent ooveer th ataval vinite fa dy cada he vorneh, A

Wee reytew ol Watisre neh nen \ Aid le do thn ataneod, and wil

of preparation t

y dilreent Aw | N (ron a ee ho of Ita ablation va to glorify Ga Wo porseveranes, | yhhave no tendon wloas to what { was a pare ot |i

Yorts do aecomplis

}oas an exempla “7 and expected |

pis, both here ai

th other objects, Lowa or anbierpat wht and soliettud r with God, he]

and efforts, as to:

REV, JOSKPEE ST ERS CARIBE MAE pis

Aidiflerent to th ae present ‘it Citrine CON BOC TLOTIOS ote hire

tellin otlera, Like thie Fiachaneden Whin ploughs thyeyer “Bolds whieh he intends to plant, and plants in Hie Dies

And expectation of a harvest, there was an directness snd A Appropriatenesa ier Tees perpen andl exertions, whieh implied mn enrnest expeetntion of results There ore in his writings Hrecuent notioos ¢ KPPOser ve Of his eoneorn For the succes hig dabers, and) for the holy lives nnd final happiness or ho converts tinder his ministry; and likew pss Of the effects whieh he witneased of tis prenehing and Writings. A csinele instance to this effect mory be etted Near the close of IHU, he met in New Jersey 1 Youn Mon then pursuing his studies for the ministry, whos el ee Hider his pronching in Montreal, on

° ade a note of the cireamatances, and added, With oxprossions of vratitude to God, that there were then within his knowledse five young men Cwhose names he BUbjoined, )preparing for the sacred office, of whose hope fal conversion ho had been instrumental,

His sentiments and feclings in relation to this subject will be best exhibited by the following passayes from u ner mon which he preached in Montreal, in May, 1424, just before his final departure, entitled, Christian Te waits from the text, “ Myery man shall receive his own re ward. aosordins to his own Jabor.” Plaving largely establish ; mp ocetrino contained In this passage, he thus proceeds Mhe doctrine of the proportional rewards of the rightcous, thus taucht hy sO Many passages of Heri pture commends itself'to our understandiags by many re wats considerations,

“ad If labor heightens the enjoyment of ubsec us nt repo if the bitter vives a hivher relish to the swee which : is

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4 MEMOIR OF TIE

coeds it, and if sanctified afflictions work out for us a fay more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, then it fo) lows that he whose labors have been the greatest, must: oj necessity enjoy a rest the most refreshing, that he who ha tasted most of the bitter, shall drink of sweetness the mos delicious, and he who has endured the most affliction {iy Christ, shall be immortally strong to bear the most. os ceeding and eternal weight of glory.

“Again, if'a large ingredient in the happiness of beaye consist in an exquisite sense of the divine approbation then he who has the most faithfully and acceptably verve God in his day and generation, must, in the consciousnes of that, have the largest measure of happiness. An again, as a high and refined souree of our rejotetng, | the testimony of our conscience, he whose conscience lik

the apostle’s ean testify, that in simplicity and godly sir

eerity he has had his conversation in the world, and |i

persevered in a patient continuance in well doing, must

course enjoy the most exalted degree of spiritual happine in heaven,

Besides this, the eminently holy man will, in the futw

world, have a higher satisfaction in witnessing the go

effects of his devotedness to God, ere, the seed seer

often to be sown in vain, and patience appears to reap tardy harvest ;—there, it will be seen that no labor in th Lord was in vain, that no sincere effort was ever ma

without in some measure glorifying God. Aad when:

the seed shall have sprung up, and all the harvest. shall’

eathered in, the holy will have unspeakable satisfaction | the review of their instrumentality in carrying forward ¢

. a : ] erent designs of heayen’s merey to man;—and then sh

he who has sown most seed, come rejoicing with the larg:

srk out for us a tar f glory, then it fol he greatest, must 0! ling, that he who ha sf sweetness the mos ho most affliction fy o bear the most ex

¢ happiness of heave » divine approbation and acceptably sorve! t, in the conscLousnes o of happiness. An of our repairing, | whose conscience Vik iplicity and godly sit mn the world, and he in well doing, must! e of spiritual happines

man will, in the futu fn witnessing the 9

Here, the seed seer ence appears to rei} son that no labor in th » effort was ever mal o God. And when:

all the harvest shall!

speakable gatisfaction | in carrying forward ¢

hi

o man;—and then +

ejoicing with the largt

REV. JOSEPIT STIBBS CIRISTMAS, 8D

‘Bheaves :—and in witnessing these glorious results, shall 3 ; atau f — . : y ba ery mum receive his own reward according to his own aor. | | “Pp ta arrange j By this arrangement, the Most High, while he has _. the loftiness of man, and exalted himself by a way of salvation, not by works but by grace through faith, and r rao ’ j | that not of ourselves, but as the gift of God, does, at the . : : ea e . : game time, show his love of holiness and order, by this ; , . ; 4 ) J ‘ yA his approbation upon the cood works of his accept >... and thus throws into the scale of virtue, not 8) vf iva) } igs 7 ; 7 : y aie itself, but the various degrees of heaven’s ty. nd this is no mo ) sence re thi » mi glory Ses vole han what we might expect i A - Though the greatest and least sinner be both an a e saved through grace abounding by the redemp . . ] ae Es . . ; . i : ; : tion = is in Christ, yet itis nothing more than what we expect, that he wl emi : | ] 1@ Who has been emin | ite. : ie has been eminently useful and ere, should be eminently happy in the 7 _— ealeaaaiatede ppy ie world to come, asonanie to suppose that Paul the aged, wi had spent his life dow irs i capa eo ywn to gray hairs in unceasing exer ms for the cause of Christ; that Paul the Apostle ‘i ong sustained the responsib ities and discl ies : ett 2s and discharged the ar- uous duties of that station that Paul the had been throuzh a life of -ril, i eagle tks eu alife of oril, in deaths oft, and at | closed his course on the is : ie seaffold, should take a hi place, and wear a brighter erown than tl fi a we . chter ex an the infant of ds that has just lived, and, ithout sustaining a res F bil or enduring a conflic ¢ thi | ase iat . g a conflict, let this world for a better ? a answered s biecti via. bing inswered some objections to the tendency of tl doctrine, he closes with the followi lati a he following remarks : » ine PUNE ¢ poet | 2 e doctrine of proportionate rewards suggests to us ¢ : reason why a long li ts desirable 7 77 | - 9 an un ve on i neonverted man, concerning whom it remains

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86 MEMOIR OF THE

to us yet an uncertainty, life is only valuable as it inereases the chance of his being converted. ‘To a converted man it is desirable, not for the happiness he here enjoys, for he would be unspeakably more blessed in heaven, but as it affords him an opportunity of acting for God, and laying up treasure in heaven. On this account it is worth his while to forego a little present pleasure, for the sake of ai immense addition to his future felicity. On this account

alone it is a great misfortune to die young; and on this ac.

count it is, that the hoary head is a crown of glory whu it ts found in the way of righteousness.

“9, This doctrine suggests to us the importance oj our present conduct. It instructs that every action we perform will be followed with consequences reachin: through future ages, and will have its influence in deter. mining our place in heaven, or our place in hell; for th same plan in proportion will extend to the punishment of demerit as well as the reward of virtue. Every day we live has its influence on all our future days, every chord we strike will vibrate through eternity. How dil gent then should we be that we be rich toward God! If: merchant, when he is loading his vessel for a foreign market, were assured that he should receive fivefold for every article he freighted, how anxious would he be to improve th occasion, and store his vessel to the utmost of her capac ity!’ How much more anxious should we be to have ow lives laden with holiness and crowded with usefulness: knowing as we do that upon our arrivai at the shores ¢ eternity, we shall receive for it all an unspeakable reward.

Ifa husbandman had but one field, which but one year 11 the course of his life brought him a harvest of golll how diligent would he be to improve his seed-time, and ti

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CIRISTMAS, QT

le as it Increases have every vacant inch of the ground cultivated ! ! Such a i sonverted man it field i in such a year is man’s existence ; his life upon earth | e enjoys, for he 4 the seed time; and a harvest more glorious than one of q aven, but asi gold shall be cathered in heaven; and ~ whatsoever we tod, and laying gow that shall we also reap, both in quality and quantity, q fit is worth his let us be diligent to improve every inch of ground, to fill up a or the sake of an every moment of time, for in due season we shall reap if i On this account we faint not. Oh! ifa pang of regret might enter heaven, i x; and on this ac. if the sich of sorrow might swell the bosom of a glorified i on of glory wha spirit, it would be to look back on earth and sce opportuni- g ties of uscfulness neglected, means of grace abused, the he importance godlike privilege of doing good unembraced, and the seed- every action wi time for cternity spent in comparative idleness. If you yuences reaching might by diligence 1° one single day make yourselves nfluence in deter comfortable and respoc'able for life, would you not gladly e in hell; for th embrace the opportunity? But is not eternity as much he punishment ot longer than life as life is longer than a day? and is it not ue. Every day the lictate of interest to be strenuous through life in ture days, ever) promotiny your interests for eternity ? Therefore, my rity. How dil beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always toward God! If: abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know hol for a forciyn, that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” e fivefold for every VY. He presented an edifying example, as a good man

beto improve th subjected to severe trials and sufferings, who, while strug- ost of her caput gling against temptation, trouble and discouragement, held ve be to have ow fast his integrity, persevered in his endeavors to glorify 1 with usefulness God and promote the happiness and salvation of men, and was sustained by a lively faith in the divine testimonies and promises, and the aids of the sanctifying Spirit. Whether contemplated in his closet, his pastoral labors, his solitary hours of illness, or his deep afflictions and sepeated errands to the tomb, when every tie to earth was sundered

bi at the shores « speakable rewart ch but one year 1! harvest of gol seed-time, and t

ss MEMOIR OF TILE

and the world was crueified to him and he to the world, » perfect assurance may be felt,that amidst all his loneliness pain, and sorrow, the insidicas approaches and buffeting of temptation were resisted with all the energies of his soul, These griefs and troubles, go far from diminishing his con. fidence in God, his sense of obligation, and love of duty, heightened them, and gaye vividness to his perceptions 0! the evil of sin, the divine excellency of holiness, the glory of God, and the purity and blessedness of the heavenly state, He confided with childlike simplicity in the care of Di. vine Providence. [lis writings abound with indication: of this, and his experience strikingly manifested the con. staney and sufficiency of that care. If we consider him a: a youth born and brought up in what might then } termed almost a wilderness, with few connections, and ap parently surrounded by no circumstances calculated t arouse his genius and prompt him to aspire to high attain. ments, influence, and usefulness, but on the contrary, me: at every step by obstacles and discouragements, whiel would have proved insurmountable to an ordinary mind, i if we consider him rising superior to these difficulties, ac : quiring a classical education, aad exciting admiration by the development of his powers; and when qualified };

his studies, and by the experience of religion, to choose a employment for life, we behold him deliberately preferrin:

the service of his Saviour in the sacred office, encounterin:

fresh embarrassments, in the way ofa preparation for th’

object, aiming at a high standard of qualifications, «

length succeeding in their attainment, exhibiting a bright

though brief career of ministerial labor and usefulness, ris

ing to eminence in the discharge of his public duties, au! exerting a wide and valuable influence ; and finally, atte:

Se a ot mm om ll”

» to the world, ¢ all his loneliness, ys and buffeting orgies of his soul, \inishing his con: nd love of duty, 1is perceptions 0 ioliness, the glory he heavenly state, in the care of Di with indication anifested the con. re consider him a 4 night then b nnections, and ap ees calculated t ire to high attain: the contrary, me! ragements, whic! n ordinary mind, nse difficulties, ac ng admiration bj when qualified by gion, to choose al perately preferrin:

fice, encounteriv: eparation for thi qualifications, * xhibiting a bright id usefulness, ms ublic duties, av! and finally, atte!

. REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS, 89

during severe trials and sufferings, from loss of health d the bereavement of all his family, we witness his cui departure in the joy of the Lord, we may well re- gard him ashaving richly experienced the care of Providence. We may regard him as having been brought forward b an unusual series of events to exert an important agency in relation to the salvation of many souls, and by his labors and afilictions to be early prepared for the pure sauces and enjoyments of the heavenly kingdom. . | To those who were intimately acquainted with him, who knew his amiableness, his sincerity, modesty, humility for bearance, kindness, benevolence, and all those kindred traits and qualities which were so blended in his character and shone with so steady alight, and who at the same ine appreciated his endowments and qualifications for usef . ness, and his attainments and experience as a minister a the gospel, it seemed desirable, not indeed for his aa sak but for others, that his life should be prolonged. <A 1 there was a single reason why longer life was - his a to be desired, namely as “ affording further spnoiintt of acting for God, and laying up treasure in heaven.” ie may it not with propriety be asked, in view of the hae ter he had formed, and on supposition that health had been added to his gifts and attainments, and his if extended to twice or thrice its period, who can im fe what would have been the extent of his usefulness ? ‘d heoontinued proportionably to exemplify the fruits of ri " eousness, and to grow in knowledge and in grace in af : years, as rapidly as he had done in those of his acti as Ms eee who will venture to imagine to what eh ould have glorified God, and promoted the temporal and spiritual welfare of ai But divine ake ,

90 MEMOIR OF TIE

goodness required him in another sphere; and it remain: for those who survive, and especially those who are youn and have health, to fill up, as it were, the measure of hj: usefulness, and accomplish what, with their opportunity, h. would have done.

In view of his character and history it were natural 1 bring into comparison those of different classes of men; + contrast with his their attainments, their supreme object the manner of exerting their agency, the extent of thei obedience, and their hopes and prospects for eternity. By this must be left to individuals, to ministers and laymen to those who love and obey the gospel, and those wh supremely love the world; to those who survive of hi own age and acquaintance, and those who are about t come forward upon the stage of life, to exert their agen: as accountable creatures, and form their characters {i this and the future world. Among all these there suri will be some who will be aroused by his example, some vi will be induced to aim at higher attainments in knowleds virtue, and usefulness ; some who will strive to acqui in a like degree the chief excellencies of his characte who will be incited to cultivate his exemplary habit and like him te avoid offences, and abstain from the ver appearance of evil. And will there not be some whi in view of his brightening upward path, will look ba with painful regrets upon their own past history; sou perhaps of his acquaintances, whose hearts will sink with: them as they follow him to the last scene in which he peared on earth, and feel that he is gone to realise the pu

perfect, and endless happiness which his faith and hy had anticipated ; while they, not having entered upont: same path, perceive no ray of light in their own prosptt

and it remain: y who are youn » measure of his : opportunity, hi

were natural | lasses of men; t ‘supreme object e extent of thei oreternity. Bu sters and laymen 1, and those wh rho survive of ki who are about t exert their agent ieir characters {i these there surt] example, some wl hents in knowledy 1 strive to acqui | of his characte exemplary habit stain from the ver ot be some whi th, will look ba past history; s0!! rts will sink with! ne in which he to realise the pu! is faith and ho ng entered upon t their own prosp*

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS, 9] 9 «

vof the objects to which they are devoted. If there be one such, the voice from the dead yet speaking to him is, “ Turn fe “ ; : ban] ?y while this impression exists, and with all your heart obey the gospel, for why will you dic?” Again, in view of his life and character, a life so brief: 10 Cy ob a ati y 7} ! and yet so expanded with usefulness and promise, and a 7 . ‘ . . . ’ ‘ . cha racter so mature in Christian experience, and in quali figations for the duties both of public and private life; we , " ) } : j are called on to glorify God for his great goodness to him “Personally, and through him, to those with whom he was . immediately connected, and to the world. He an 7. an of the divine favor in every period of his life; . ; 7" . ee a close of it, much of the providential goodness of ae much of his merey, his spiritual influence and ganctifying grace. lt pleased God 1 i @ grace. ased God in a conspicuous ote snore 8 us manner to show forth the riches of his love and kindness in hi to wake him the instrument by his example and |] ne on rom Q 3 e and his active exertions of great good to others. His exampl i respects remarkabl fata aay - > arkably pure and truly Christian ; and no evi- Mce appears in any of his writings, or in the i Z... gs, recu.. tlons e acquainted with him, of any thi ng cia m, y thing of evil tendency, | ¢ calculated to excite prejudice against religi ‘be an occasion ofs : ae ecasion of stumbling and reproach. O 7. ct, ng and reproach. On the contrary character of his writings, and of his te manners, to conciliate the feeli a rane H e) ( © r OR secret, ofall wt ngs, and win the confidence a s] : all who came within his influence. There a sil ity anc sinceri : ~All uplicity and godly sincerity ever beaming forth i | spirit and deportment, which testified of that wisdor F : nan grace which are from above. ‘The reader will see in thi et 8 ]

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G2 MEMOIR OF THE 4

eause for devout and admiring gratitude to the glorious Author and Source of all good, to the Saviour and the Sanc- tifier of men: gratitude that he was kept and shielded from fatal snares and temptations of sin and evil; that he was awakened to perecive his sinfulness and ill dessert ; that un- der the influence of the word and spirit of God. he turned from sin to holiness, obeyed the gospel, and devoted himself to the glory and service of God; that he was enabled so happily to exhibit the Christian spirit, to exert an influence so benign on all around him, and was the instrument ofso much good to others; and that living and dying he enjoyed the love of God and the hope of eternal life.

In the contemplation of his history likewise, it is obvious

to consider how much with such a character may be effect- §

ed within a brief space of time. The whole period of his active usefulness, after he received license to preaeh the

gospel, scareely exceeded five years;-yet, by consecrating him- &

self wholly to his work, and in a spirit of simple dependence

on God, earnestly aiming and desiring to accomplish much, i

and, in short, by making the most of his time, his gifts and faculties, his acquisitions, his influence, his prayers, his faith, and his hopes, he effected and was the means of great and permanent good in different places; exerted a wide and sa- lutary influence, and exhibited a character and an example

alike creditable to religion and beneficial to man. Hadhe §

aimed at Jess, and given but a wavering and divided atten- tion to his great object, his life, had forty years been ad-

ded to it, might have been less valuable to himself and the #

world, than it has actually been. While considering hi: high aims, and the constancy of his purposes, the writer hai been reminded of what was related to him some years ago,

by the late Rev. Dr. Ryland of Bristol, respecting the pect :

co .

the glorious and the Sanc- shielded from

that he was ssert ; that un- od: he turned evoted himeelf yas enabled so rt an influence nstrument of s0 ying he enjoyed

ise, it is obvious

r may be effect: §

le period of his e to preach the onseerating him- mple dependence

ccomplish much, |

ime, his gifts and prayers, his faith,

ans of great and bd a wide and s2-

and an example fo man. Hadhe | nd divided atten: y years been ad: § o himeelf and the e considering hi yses, the writer hat m some years 29° ie pspecting the pecl: iis

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. 93 fiar development of character, and superior attainments and usefulness, of his carly associates, Carey, Fuller, Sutcliff, Pearce, and others; namely, that when they were obscure and without either learning or influence, they agreed toge- ther, and resolved, after much consideration of the state of the world and of the cause of religion, to endeavor by the utmost efforts in their power, respectively ‘TO MAKE THE MOST OF LIFE ;’ to make the greatest possible attainments in holiness, and to glorify God and benefit their fellow men in the highest possible degree. In pursuance of this resolve, one of the leading objects, which appeared most important to be undertaken, and which best suited his character, was referred to each, to be the engrossing object of his exertions. To Carey it was assigned to lead the way as a missionary to the heathen—to Fuller, to exert his great powers as a ‘biblical student and theological writer—to Ryland himself, to occupy the distinguished office of training young men for ‘the gospel ministry—to Pearce, to rouse the public mind to ‘the subject of missions, &c. The extraordinary attainments, ‘influence, and usefulness of these individuals was, without doubt, owing in a great degree, to the high purposes and aims which they thus solemnly resolved to pursue with inde- fatigable constancy and zeal through life.

Finally, this memorial may be fitly closed by adopting, # with slight accommodation, as appropriate to the subject of it, some brief extracts from what Fuller and Ryland have recorded of their friend and associate, Pearce, by whose death in his thirty-third year they were greatly afflicted.

‘‘ By the grace of God he was what he was; and to the honor of grace and nut for the glory of a sinful worm, be it ecorded. Like all other men he was depraved. He felt it, nd lamented it, and longed to be freed from sin; but cer-

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4 MEMOIR OF THE

tainly, taking him altogether, we have seldom scen a charac- ter ‘whose excellencfes were so many and so uniform, and whose imperfections were so few.’ We have seen men rise high in contemplation, who have abounded but little in action. We have seen zeal mingled with bitterness, and candor de- generate into indifference ; experimental religion mixed with a large portion of enthusiasm, and what is called rational religion void of every thing that interests the heart of man. We have seen splendid talents tarnished with insufferable pride, scriousness with melancholy, cheerfulness with levity, and great attainments in religion with uncharitable censori- ousness towards men of low degree; but we have not seen these things in Christmas.

‘There have been few men in whom has been united a greater portion of the contemplative and the active; holy | zeal and genuine candor ; spirituality and rationality ; talents that attracted almost universal applause, and the most unaf- fected modesty; faithfulness in bearing testimony against evil, with the tenderest compassion to the soul of the evil doer; fortitude that would encounter any difficulty in the way of duty without any thing boisterous, noisy, or over- bearing ; deep seriousness, with habitual cheerfulness ; and a constant aim to promote the highest degrees of piety in himself and others, with a readiness to hope the best of the lowest ; not breaking the bruised reed, nor quenching th: § smoking flax.”—‘ Fuller's Memoir.’

“One thing I will say, which I could say of very few others, though I have known many of the excellent of the earth, that I never saw or heard of any thing respecting him which grieved me, unless it was his inattention to his health. and that, I believe, was owing toa mistaken idea of his con- stitution. If any of you know of other faults belonging tc Jam

scen a charac- uniform, and seen men rise little in action. nd candor de- on mixed with salled rational » heart of man. th insufferable ess with levity, ritable censori- have not seen

been united a | 1e active; holy |

ionality ; talents Athe most unaf- timony against foul of the evil ifficulty in the noisy, or over: eerfulness ; and ees of piety in

e the best ofthe §

quenching th

say of very few excellent of the » respecting him

ion to his health, a idea of his con im lts belonging t¢ §

RKV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. 95

him, be careful to shun them, and be sure to follow him wherein he was a follower of Christ.” —‘ Dr. Ryland’s Ser-

mon.

[The Discourse on Christian Intercession, referred to on page 28, the Discourse on the Nature of that Inability which Prevents the Sinner from Embracing the Gospel, the Farewell Letter to the American Presbyterian So- ciety of Montreal, and an ex‘ract from the Annals of the American Pulpit, are successively inserted in the fol- lowing pages. |

cn nm nn I RT : et aneedieadeite-c tne ater Ne me + ee

A percent Sater a

ON CHRISTIAN INTERCESSION.

‘6 Making mention of you always in my prayers.”—Rom. i. 9.

THE most careless reader of the epistolary correspondence of the apostle, cannot fail to remark how often he speaks of praying for others. Has he been instrumental in planting an infant church, and does persecution drive him fiom his beloved charge, with what affection does he commend them to an ever-present God! Does intelligence reach him of the prosperity of some distant society of believers, with what joy- fulness he bows his knees before the God and Father of our s Lord Jesus Christ,to thank him for thenews,andimplore upon

96 MEMOIR OF THE

his fellow Christians a larger measure of the riches of grace ! The extent, frequency, and fervor of his irtercessions, will surprise any one who shall be at the pains of examining the various hints which we have of his performance of this duty as they lie scattered in various parts of his writings. Scarcely a letter of his which does not give express asgur. ance that they to whom it was addressed had an interest in his daily prayers. Even Philemon, a private Christian in a distant country, was not forgotten. Nor was it tkose only whom personal acquaintance had made peculiarly dear to the apostle, for whom he used his influence at the throne of grace. Churches he had never visited, cities he had never seen, find a place in a heart which a divine philantrophy had enlarged to contain the world. In a letter written to the Roman Christians, many years before his feet had ever touched the shores of Italy, he thus speaks: ‘ For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you d- ways in my prayers.”

Permit me, then, to urge upon your imitation this amiab): trait of that holy man’s character, by suggesting a few ob- servations on the happy effects which the performance of this duty would have upon our own minds, and the blessed results which might be expected on the minds of those for | whom we pray.

Though this is one of the most noble and disinterested parts of devotion, I trust there is no impropriety in com- mencing by a few remarks on the happy influence which

the right performance of this duty would have upon our #

own selves. We who as dependent creatures are so destitute ourselves, BS can have little to bestow upon others. The keys which

riches of grace ! vercessions, Will s of examining ormance of this of his writings. 6 express ascur- had an interest rivate Christian lor was it those . peculiarly dear ce at the throne ies he had never ne philantrophy letter written to ris fect had ever : “ For God is in the gospel of ation of you 4:

ion this amiabl: esting a few ob- performance of and the blessed

nd disinterested opriety in com- influence which

titute ourselves,

inds of those for §

have upon our |

he keys which

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS. 97

unlock the treasures of happiness, are in hands mightier than ours; and however we may pity the sufferings, or wish to relieve the necessities of others, all that we can or- dinarily do, is to refer them to the same source whence our blessings flow. A wish is mostly all that we can give:— God is the source of all blessing. A wish directed to him is a prayer :—hence, the most natural and commonly the only way we have of giving expression to benevolent feel- ings, is by praying for others. And though in doing this the benefit of others is our main object, yet we ourselves are not left without a blessing. The duty is doubly blessed; it is blessed to him who asks, and in him who receives. To exercise benevolence in this manner is to increase benevolence. To increase benevolence is to increase hap- piness; for what larger ingredient is there in happiness than benevolence or love. That man is not the happiest, all whose solicitudes are shrunk up within the narrow com- pass of his own little self, but he who loves much, and whose affections light upon many objects. The extension of his affections does not imply their weakening: these are waters which spread without becoming shallow. A parent can love each of the whole circle of his children, with as in- tense an attachment as he did his first born. We are not to suppose that our feelings are capable of rising only to a certain pitch and must there stop; they may be multiplied as fast as there are lovely objects, and rise in height as long as new loveliness is unfolded. How boundlessly then may the soul expatiate in the attributes of Jehovah! He

m who regards every child of Adam as a brother, has a foun-

tain of pleasure which is sealed up to the hater of his spe- cies. He who uses most of this fountain, will have waters the most pure, abundant, and refreshing. Benevolence

FS ee

es

Ss MEMOIR OF THR

prompts prayer, prayer promotes benevolence ; and benevo-

lent feelings in exercise are noble, seothing and delightful

Such is the more general operation of the duty upon whic

I insist. A fow of its more particular advantages are

worth mentioning. And, aw 1. It greatly promotes friendship, What more likely

means to strengthen our social attachments, than day after

day to associate them with our holiest feelings, and mingle

them with our brightest hopes? The brighter objects of

heaven throw a pleasing tint on the dark landscapes ot

earth. impressions thus repeated, a friendship thus sanc. &

tified, can be neither transient nor grovelling. Indeed, it is hard to see how friendship can be satisfactory and com

plete without religious hopes. ‘Two companions destitute Hay of religious hopes, are like two travellers who are thrown | together in a public conveyance. They journey together '

fur a short ame, and then part without the expectation of ever meeting again, If the shortness of life does not prevent much intimacy among irreligious acquaintances, the speedy separation of death isust produce a regret unrelieved by hope, But Christian pilgrims indulge the expectation of meeting in one common place of everlasting repose. Their heaven is a social heaven. The company collected will be all the truly excellent who ever have lived or ever will live upon the earth, Even here, though a rolling ocean and ranges of mountains separate them, they may meet around the same merey-seat. They may even so adjust their intercessions that the wings of the same moment shall carry their mutual supplications to the ear of the prayer- hearing God. This branch of devotion has this advantage above all others, that the movements of faith are seconded and stimulated by the warmth of natural. affection.

; and bhenevo- and delightful. ty upon whieh

dvantagos are

at more likely than day after ga, and mingle iter objects of ¢ landsoapes of ship thus sane: ng. Indeed, it story and com nions destitute yho are thrown urney together expectation of loes not prevent ices, the speedy t unrelieved by expectation of

repose. Ther

y collected will ved or ever will a rolling ocean they may meet even so adjust me moment shall ar of the prayer- s this advantage ith are seconded atural. affection.

»

REV. JOSEPH STIBBS CHRISTMAS, 99

Too often we are cold and sluggish, we lic becalmed in a condition more irksome than the turbulence of the tempest. No sooner, however, do we begin supplicating for dear frionda, than the cords of affection begin to draw; feeling

-g starts from its slumbers, and a brisk gale fills all our wide-

expanded sails. What has been said may enablo us to es- timate how egregiously they err who object to tho gospel, that it does not countenance the cultivetion of friendship.

| Where will you find a more delightful picture of affection-

ato intercourse than that which Luke las drawn of the in- terview between our Saviour and the two disciples on their way to Kmmaus? Where, I would ask, in all history, will you find such instances of noble and self-sacrificing friend- ship as among the primitive believers ?

would be an effectual antidote