PREFACE. SEED, is the figure made use of by the Saviour, to represent the truth He proclaimed to the multitude; and doubtless it is a very appropriate figure. The human mind is the soil, into which the seed is cast, there it is to vegetate and grow, ere we can perceive its effects. But the glorious result is, the fulfilment of the prediction of the evangelical prophet, "Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree; and instead of the briar shall come up the myrtle tree; and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off." Wondrous effects are produced by the reception of the simple truth of God, which always works effectually in them that believe. But as the soil must be prepared, before the seed in nature will spring up and bring forth fruit, so must the heart be prepared by the agency and operation of the Holy Spirit, before we shall witness the results we desire from the truth of God. But, not only must the soil be prepared, but as there must be rain, sunshine, and wind, in order to the perfection of nature's plants; so also must there be constant communications of grace from above, in order that the word of God may spring up and bring forth fruit, thirty, sixty, and a hundred fold. Reader, here is a handful of good seed in this little book is your heart prepared for its reception? Have you you felt your need of Christ ? Are you convinced of sin, righteousness, and judgment? Do you desire to feel the power, taste the sweetness, and realize the joys of God's salvation? You are immortal. You have a soul to be saved or lost. God saves and sanctifies us by his truth. Read this work carefully, it may lead you to the Saviour. Read it with prayer, it may be the means of bringing home salvation to your heart. Read it more than once, a second blow often accomplishes what the first fails to effect. The writer intends your good. He desires your salvation. He wishes to win you for Christ. He must meet you at the bar of God, and he would be happy to meet you there, as one that has been led to Jesus through this little work. May the Holy Spirit accompany the reading of it with his blessing. May the Lord Jesus be exalted by it. May the Father of mercies, put the stamp of his blessing upon it. "O, holy, blessed, and glorious Trinity, THREE PERSONS in ONE GOD," bless this feeble effort to the glorifying of thy great name; and the salvation of many poor, lost, and ruined sinners. Amen. Cheltenham. JAMES SMITII. |