A Journal of the life, travels, and labours in the work of the ministry, of John Griffith, late of Chelmsford in Essex, in Great Britain, formerly of Darby, in Pennsylvania

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A Testimony from the Monthly-
Meeting of WiTHAM, in Essex,

CONCERNING

JOHN GRIFFITH, dec,

TH E charafter of this our well beloved
Friend being fo generally known, we
eiteem it unneceflary to extend our Teftimo-
ny concerning him, further than the time
of his arrival and refidence amongft us.

In the year 1747, being a ntember of the
monthly-meeting of Darby, Chefter-coun-
ty, in Pennfylvania, he was concerned to
vifit; the churches in Great-Britain and Ire-
land ; during which engagement his mind
^as imprefTed with appehenfion of duty to
fettle in this nation ; the importance where-
of was attended with earneft fupplication
to the Lord, that he might be rightly di-
reded therein ; and, after deliberate confide-
ration, finding the expediency of his remo-
val clearly confirmed, he returned to Ame-
rica, where, having fettled his affairj^ with
the concurrence of his brethren, he removed
to England; and entering into marriage-
covenant with Frances Wyatt, of Chelmf-
|ford, became a member of this meeting -
Wherein, we trufl, the fruits of his Ikbour
Ifford fubftantial evidence of able talents
|iithfully applied. Few were his companions
' aloufly concerned for the reftoration of

>d order, which rendered the taflc more
us; yet in regard to the exercife of

difcipline.

dirciplinc, compared with the fet^ in wiiicii
lie found it, confiderabie regulation hath
been effected. .

His gift was eminently adapted to fervice:
in miniftry found, powerful, _ and cleat;
in difcipline, diligent and judicious ; fearch-
ino- impartially into the caufes whence the
circulation of life was obftruded, which
operative care, difturbing the falfe reft of
lukewarm profelTors, hath, at times, ct-
cited theirfteleafure; yet being mercifully
preferved frSn the fpots of the world, and
endued with authority to fpeak feehngly to
the ftates of his hearers, in him that proverb
was remarkably verified, " \¥hen a man s
" ways pleafe the Lord, he nlaketh even
" his enemies to be at peace with him.

In doubtful cafes, he manifefted an ex-
emplary tendernefs and forbearance, parti-
cularly refpeaing fuch as appeared preflimp-
tuous in launching into religious engage-
ments above their qualification, being dif-
pofedto afford full opportunity for trial;
obferving, upon thefe occafions, it would be
moft acceptable, that deluded pcrfons per-
ceived their error by its effeds : but when
thorou-hly convinced of unfoundnefs, he
faithfully difcharged the duty of an elder,
in the application of plain-aeahng, which,
indeed, was his pecuhar talent ; jct fo tem.
pered with difcretion, both in mmiftry an
difcipline, that we believe few have fil''"
thefe important ftations with more gt
..H-obation: nor were his amiable qu
' connu'

THE

JOURNAL

O F

*

JOHN GRIFflTR

IT" hath been much upon my mind
(efpecially of late) to write fomething
by way of journal, of my life, travels, and
experience in the gracious and merciful
dealings of the Lord with me, through the
Courfe of my pilgrimage in this world ; to-
gether with fome remarks on the ftate of
our fociety in my time, interfperfed with
divers obfervations relating to our condudl,
in various ftations of life, but chiefly in a
religious fenfe ; to remain, when my body
is laid in the duft, a lading memorial and
teflimony to the truth. And as the Lord
fhall be pleafed to open my underftanding,
I may alfo afford profitable way-marks to
fome weary travellers^, who are- feeking a

2 The JOURNAL; of

city that hath foundations, whofe buildei
and maker is'lEod.

I was born on the 21 ft day of the 5th
month, 1713, in Radnorfliire, South Wales;
being favoured with parents who had' th"e
fubftance of reUgion in themfelves, and
were confcientioufly concerned to train
up their children in the fear of God»
The names of my parents were John
and Amy GriiEth; my mother (as I re-
member) was educated in fociety with the
people called Quakers, and a fteady valua-
ble friend flie was ; having at times, a few
words, byway of teftimony, tenderly to drop
in religious meetings, which were accept-
able to friends. My father, as I have heard
him relate, was convinced of the blelTed
truth after he had arived to man's eftate,
and found it a great crofs to join in fociety
with the defpifed Quakers; he being the
only one of the family, which was pretty
large, that joined in fociety with that peo-
ple. But the Lord making hard things
eafy to him, he gave up, in earneft, to
the heavenly difcoveries, and, in procefs
of time, had a difpenfation of the gofpel
of peace and falvation committed to him;
wherein he laboured, in the parts where
he lived, with remarkable fincerity and up-
rightnels ; being indeed a truly living mi-
nifter, and an heavenly-minaed man, as I
well remember, though I left him when I
^was young, and never faw J;xim again. He

finilhed

JOHN GRIFFITH. 3

feillied hiscourfein this world, on the 24th
of the 2d month, in the year 1745; it is
added in the regifter oi ehe Rionthly-meetiug
to which he beloifged,. thus, viz. ^^He wsls a
** minifter R?iany years, and left a good report
** behind him among all forts of people,''
He was a Serviceable inftrnnient in the Lord's
hand againfl imdtre liberties,, whicb were
then creeping in;; and wass Tery. deeply
affedted with the declining fbtte of Ac
church in thofe parts (many havinig remo-
Ted to America) which feoe has deceaic
are become almaft a defolatioii.

Having thus paid a linal! tribute^ ^hicli
I thought due,, to the memory af isy wartliy
parents, I fliall proceed ta give aa accoimt
of my fslf,

I was fav-onred with the Iieart-meltisg
dictations of God*s love, I tlsielz^ when
about ieven or eight years eld; tmd fre-
quently experienced his name to be ia the
ailemblies of his people as pi^ecioBS oint-
ment poi^red forth; whereby xnj defiies
were greatly raifed to attend naeetiags for
divine worlhip. For alchoughj^ like Sinned
of old,, I was as yet imacqoainte'd with the
voice of God, neither did I clearly "onder-
ftand from whence that precious conibla-
tion, which I felt, came; yet, I well re-
member ibmething working powerfully ia
my tender w(^!c mind, by way of oppoiition
to that fweet heavenly enjoymei^t, in order
to deprive me thereof, by prefeutixsg to my

B A lew

4 The JOURNAL of

view fome tranfitory delight, and by filling
my mind with vain unprofitable, and fome-
times wicked and blafphemons thoughts,
which were a very great afHidlion to me.
Then he, who was a liar from the begin-
ning, would fuggefl to my weak mind, that
the only way to get over fuch uneafinefs,
was to give way to thofe thoughts, and to
be utterly regardlefs of what pafTed through
my mind. I found the flefh wanted eafe,
and, to fave its felf, willingly joined here-
in with the temptations of Satan, whereby
I got a kind of prefent eafe ; but it was by
fuch gratifications fts tended to beap up
w^rath againft the day of wrath, and the re-
velation of the righteous judgments of God.
So that, notwithibinding the falfe eafe con-
trived by my foul's enemy, I did, at times,
very fenfibly feel, as I grew up, this peace
difturbed and broken by a fenfe of God's
wrath, revealed from heaven againft my un-
rig hteoufnefs ; and great bitternefs of fpirit
I was often in, when the chaftening of the
Lord was upon me for fin. I vv^ould, at,,
fuch times, enter into covenant with the
Lord, promifing amendment ; but as thofe
promifes were made much in my own will,
they were foon broken, and that would in-
creafe the weight of my horror and dif-
trefs: the Lord, in infinite mercy, being
pleafcd to find me out, and to plead with
me as in the valley of decifion. . In wri-
ting' this, my mind is greatly moved with

pity

JOHiN GRIFFITH. 5

pity and bowels of compalTion towards
inconfiderate youth; who for the fake of
trifling vanities, flighting their own mer-
cies, are lubje<!:led to diftrefs of mind: and
the cafe is ftill worfe, when by repeated dif-r
obedience and rebellion againfb God's un-
merited grace, they have almoft ftifled his
divine witnefs in their own hearts, and
go on with impunity; for an awakening
time will come, foon or late, which muft
flrike all fuch with horror and amaze-
mtent. May it be in mercy !

My godly parents were very careful to pre-*
vent my falling into evil company ; notwith-
ftanding which, I frequently, without their
knowledge, found fuch, and joined them in
thofe vanities which are incident to youth;
and perhaps was not a whit behind any of
them therein: yet in the cool of the day,
I was fliarply reproved for the fame ; nay
fomctimes, in the very midfl of my folly.
But by this time I wanted to lilence that
pure witnefs againft evil in my heart. Oh I
I have often lince, with deep reverence,
thankfully admired the long-fufFering of a
gracious God, in that he did not cut me
ofF, when I wilfully refifted the reproof of
his inftrudtion, which is the way to life,
becaufe I wanted my living in the vain plea-
fures of this perifhing world.

When I was about the age of thirteen
years, a friend who had lived fomc time in
Pennfylvania, being in our parts, and fre-
quently

6 The JOURNAL oi^

quendy at our houfe, gave a very pJeafmg
account of that country, l having two
uncles and one a\int there, fome of whom
hsid before written to encourage our going
over thither, my inclination grev/ very
ilrong to go; though my parents, efpecially
eiy father, was at firft very much againfl
it. But I . was as one imnioveably bent for
going; which when my parents faw, and
that an elder brother inclined to go with
me, they at length confented thereunto, and
procured a certificate of our being in unity
with Friends. There being a family of
Friends, out of the compaCs of our month--
iy meeting, aifo going over in the fame
fhip, we were delivered under their care,
and in the year 1726, we embarked at M'll^
ford-Haven, on board the Conftantine gal-
ley of Briftol, Edward Foy mafter. We
had a paflagc of about eight weeks from
land to land. We were about eighty of
ninety paffeiigers, generally healthy, a-
mongil whom three children were bori^
wdiilfl on board, and none removed by
death. My uncle, John Morgan, who
lived about 1 2 miles from the city of Phi-
ladelphia, hearing of our arrival, came on
board, and condu(51:ed us to his own houfc,
where I continued for fome time, my bro-
ther, being a Tveaver, fettled at my aunt
Mary Fennel's, following his trade.

Removing from under my parents watch-
ful care over me, for my good, furnillicd
nic with great opportunity to gratify a vaiji

imnd

JOHN GRIFFITH. 7

mind, in the foolifh amufements of a tran-
iitory world, towards which I had biit too
gr^at an inclination. But I have this to
iky, in crder that parents may be encoura-
ged to exert their godiy endeavours for the
prefervation of their children, that I do
iledfaflly believe, the religious care of my
parents over me in my youth, irnpreffed ib
great -an awe upon my mind, that, through
the bleffing of Divine Providence, it wa^
a great means of my prefervation from
grofs enormities* though I had great op-
portunity of being plunged thereinto, after
I left them. I hope ever to retain a grate-
ful and thankful remembrance of thofe
gracious prefervations, when I confider,
how narrowly I have efcaped thofe rocks,
^pon which many have been fhipwrecked
and ruined.

I was fometimes vilited, and in degree
awakened to a fenfe of my undone con-
dition without a Saviour, after my arrival
in America, though not fo frequently as
when I was younger. As I had often^ oh
very often ! knowingly withftood it, my
tafte for worldly pleaiiires being now grown
ftronger, I was very unwilling to give up
to the call of Chrift. I could plead abund-
ance of excules, concluding among other
things, that I was but young, and might
live a great many years ; that if I did take
my fwing a few years, I might become re-
ligious fooner than many others had done,

who

8 The JOURNAL of

who were brave men in their day. I would,
however, to make myfelf the more eafy for
that time, fnlly determine to be a very re-
ligious good man, at one time or other;
but it muft not be yet. Thus, through
the grofs darknefs v/hich had covered my
mind, I who had no certainty of feeing the
light of one. day more, was prevailed upon,
by the fubtilty of Satan, to run the dread-
ful hazard of a future repentance and
amendment of life, and fo became worfe
and more hardened in evil, though ftill
preferved out of grofs pollutions, or what
are commonly fo efteemed; I was afraid to
tell a lie, except to embellifh, or fet off
a pleafant or merry tale or ftory; appre-
hending it no great crime to tell a lie in
jeft. I never remember to have fworn an
oath, or uttered a curfe in my life. Nor
was I ever prevailed upon, in my cuflo-
mary converfation, to depart from the rules
of my education, refpecfting the plain lan-
guage, thee and thou to one, and you to
more than one; all this time preferving a
pretty fair charadler amongft men, as none
could charge me with any thing accounted
fcandalous. I retained much love and re-
gard for thofe I thought truly religious;
efpecially weighty fubftantial miniflers of
the everlafting gofpel ; and I believe had a
better fenfe of their fpirits and labours, than
fome of my companions had, and therefore
was afraid to defpife or fpeak contempri-

bly

JOHN GRIFFITH. 9

bly of fuch, as fome of my afloGiates did.
In this carnal degenerate ftate, I did com-
monly, in a cuftomary way, attend firfl-
day meetings, and moftly had the liberty
of going on other days of the week, when
any minifters from diftant parts came to
viflt Abington meeting, to which I belong-
ed : but alas ! it was to little or* no good
pnrpofe, as the labour beftowed upon me,
by miniftry or otherwife, was like water fpik
upon a ftone, that foon runs ofi again with-
out any entrance ; I being indeed for Ibme
time, like the heath in the defart, not
knowing when good came: and if at any
time, the feed of God's kingdom fell upon
my heart, which was like the high- way
ground, it was loon taken away, and I
prefently loft the favour thereof.

When I had arrived to upwards of nine-
teen years of age, I was, through infinite
mercy never to be forgotten, viiited in an ex-
traordinary manner; concerning which, as
it was the happy means of turning my
mind, in a good degree, from the perifhing
vanities of an uncertain w^orld, to the God
of all fure mercies, I intend to be fome-
what particular. One evening, behig with
divers of my companions in vanity, and
under no reftraint, as the heads of the fa-
mily were not at home, we carried our
frothy vain converfation, and foolifli rude
actions, to a higher degree of v/icked mad-
nefs, than I ever was guilty of before, in

which

lo The journal or

tvhkh I flippofe I was as a ringleader. On
this account, I felt fome fliaqj lailies of
can fcience as I went tc^ bed that night ; and
a thoughtful nefs took hold of my mind,
that we had not a being in this world for
fuch a pnrpofe, or to fpend our time as
above mentioned, of which I gave fome
hint to my bed-^fellow; yet this conviclioii
did not fink fa deep, but that I pretty foon
got to fleep. I had not flept long, before
z melfenger alarmed me with an aceouat^
that one of my jolly eoirbpanions, who was
then in the houfe, and whd^, 1 think, had
been the bell of us, was dying,, defiring
me to go immediately to him, which, I
did. I was exceedingly ft ruck with horror
of mind, at the thoughts of the manner
in which we had fpent the evening before,
and the fudden ftroke that followed tipon
this poor man. But when I came to his
bedfide, and faw the dreadful agony he was
in, my horror was increafed beyond all
exprefFion ; as none of us expelled he could
live many hours. For my part, I was fo
deeply plunged into anxiety of mind, that
it feemed as if the pains and terrors of hell
had laid hold of me already ; and I w^as then
in full expedlation there 'was no deliverance
for me therefrom; but that I fliould die,
with the weight of that diflrefs which was
upon me, before morning. This happened
on a feventh-day night, and though the
young man in time recovered, yet he was

not

JOHN GRIFFITH. n

not fit to be left next day, which hindered
me from going to meeting, to which I
was exceedingly defirous to have gone; for
by this time I was pretty thoroughly awa-
kened to a fenfe of duty ; and it being a week
before the like opportunity prefented to me
again, it feemed the longeil week I had ever
known. Oh, how did I long to prefent
myfelf before the Lord in the alTembiies of
his people! that I might pour forth my in-
ward cries before him, in a ftate of fincere
repentance, and deep contrition of foul ;
which, through the effecftual operation of
his power in my heart, I was then in a
condition to do. Now I clearly faw, that
repentance is the gift of God, and that his
love, wherewith he hath loved us in Chrift
Jefus our Lord, leads fihners thereinto.
The flefhly will being, for the prefent,
overcome and filenced, there was a giving
up, with all readinefs of mind, to the
Lord's requirings. There was not any thing
then too near to part with for the real and
fubftantial enjoyment of the beloved of my
foul; for 1 was brought in degree to expe-
rience, that he came " for judgment into this
^^ world, that they which fee not might fee;
*' and that they which fee might be made blind.
I could no longer look upon my form.er
delights with any fatisfadlion, but inftead
thereof, had a glorious view of the beauti-
ful fituation of mount Sion, and my face was
turned thitherward, and for the joy which
C was

12 The journal of

was fet before me, I was made willing to en-
dure '' the crofs of Chrift, and to defpife the
'' fhame ;" and though I became a wonder and
a gazing flock to my former companions, I
did not much regard it, knowing I had juft
caufe fo to be. My great change ftruck
them v/ith fome awe, for I obferved they
had not the boldnefs to mocl^ or deride* me
before my face.

The young man, who was an inftrument
in the divinfe hand for my awakening, and
his brother, were both greatly reached and
deeply affeded, for the prefent, by the above-
mentioned wonderful vilitation, and there
was a very vilible change in them for a time ;
but, like the feed that fell on the ftony
ground, they withered away, and did not
become fruitful to God.

I greatly rejoiced when firft day came,
that I might go to meeting; which proved
to me indeed a memorable one, there being
two public friends, ftrangers, fent thither,
as I thought, on my account; for moft of
what they had to deliver, appeared to me
applicable to my ftate. Now^ did I, in
fome degree, experience the fubftance of
what was intended, by the " baptifm of water
*' unto repentance; the wafliing of water by
*' the word; and being born of water and the
*' fpirit.'' All which would be fully feen, and
clearly underftood, by the profefTors of Chrif-
tianity, were they rightly acquainted with the
*' gofpelof Chrift; which is the power of God

*' unto

JOHN GRIFFITH. 13

** unto falvation." This power, inwardly re-
vealed, is alone able to work that change ia
them, without which, our Lord faith none
fhall fo much as fee the kingdom of God.
But alas ! being carnal in their minds, a fpiri-
tual religion doth not fuit them ; for, as faith
the fcripture, '' the natural man receiveth not
*' the things of the fpirit of God, for they are
" foolifhnefs unto him ; neither can he know
*' them, becaufe they are fpirit ually difcern-
*' ed." Hence it is, that the profeffors of the
Chriftian name, retain iigns and fhadows,
whilft the fubflance is neglected ; pleading for
the continuance of types, when the antitype
is but little regarded : where this latter is ex-
perienced, all Ihadows and types vanifh
and come to an end ; as did the legal types,
when Chriil, the antitype, came, and intro-
duced his difpenfation, which is altogether
of a fpiritual nature. And, what is yet
more wonderful, and an evidence of great
ignorance, is, to find thofe happy and bleffed
eife(3:s, which are only produced by the bap-
tifm of Chrifl with the Holy Ghoft, attribut-
ed or annexed to the ceremonies of fprinkling
a little water by a prieft in a child's face :
for, when that is done, the prieft prays,
* that old Adam in the child may be bu-
ried; that the new man may be raifed up in
him; that all carnal afFedion may die in
him; and that all things belonging to the
fpirit may live and grow in him.' Then he
prays, that the element of water may be

fandified

J4 The JOURNAL oi

fan(?llfied to the wafliing away fin. The
child is then faid to be received into the
congregation of Chrift's flock, and ligned
with the fign of the crofs : when this is
done, they acknowledge the child to be
regenerate, and grafted into the body of
Chrift's church, and return thanks to God,
in that he hath been pleafed to regenerate
that infant with his Holy Spirit, and to
receive him for his own by adoption;
Concerning a child fprinkled, they fay,
* who being born in original fin, and the
wa^ath of God, is now, by the laver of re-
generation in baptifrn, received into the
number of the children of God, and heirs
of evcrlafting life.' They fay, by baptifrn,
viz. fprinkling infants, that they have put
on Chrift, and that they are made chil-
dren of God and of the light. They hold
children baptized, dying before they com-
mit ad;ual fin, are undoubtedly faved ;
which feemeth to imply, others are not.
Behig now weary of reciting thefe palpable
errors, I Ihall proceed with the account of
my own progrefs, in the real experience of
this great work of regeneration, or the
new birth, vvhich, I well know, is not ob-
tained at fo eafy a rate as above-mentioned.'
This adminiflration of water by the word
conthiucd in a remarkable manner upon me,^
for about three months, in which I found
great fatisfaclion, as it was accompained
with an heavenly fweetnefs, like healing

balfam

J OHN GRIFFIFH. 15

balfam upon my wounded fpirit; my heart
being melted before the Lord, as wax is
melted before the fire. Great was my de-
light in reading the holy fcriptures, and
other good books; being favoured, at that
time, to receive much comfort and im-
provement thereby. But this eafy melting
difpenfation, was to give way to a more
powerful one, that the floor might be tho-
roughly purged, even the baptifm with the
Holy Ghofl and fire: for the former dif-
penfation of the Lord to my foul feemed
much to refemble John's baptifm with
water unto repentance, as being the real
thing fignified thereby, in order to prepare
the way of the Lord.

Under this difpenfation I was for a time
exceedingly diflreffed, in a fenfe of the great
alteration I found in the ftate of my mind ;
attributing it to fome caufe given by me,
that I was thus, as I thought, forfaken.
All the former tend^ernefs was gone, and I
was as the parched ground. My agonies
were fo great, that when it was day I
wiflied for night ; and when it was night I
wifhed for day. In meetings for worfhip,
where I had enjoyed mofl fatisfadlion, I now
was under the greatefl weight of pain and
diftrefs, even to that degree, at times, that
I could fcarcely forbear crying aloud for
mere agony. When meeting was over*, I
would fometimes walk a confiderable way
into the woods, that \inheard by any mor-
tal,

i6 The JOURNAL op

tal, I mighty in mournful accents, give
vent to my greatly diftreffed foul. In this
doleful ftate of mind, the grand adverfary
was permitted to pour forth floods of temp-
tations. I was almofl conftantly befet with
evil thoughts, which exceedingly grieved
me ; for though I v^ras in fuch a dark dif-
treffed condition, my mind was, by this
time, too much enlightened to allow of, or
jpin with, wicked and corrupt tboxights :
yet I often judged myfelf, and I believe at
times not without caufe, being apprehen-
five, I v/as not earneft enough in refilling
thofe evil thoughts and temptations. But,
oh! I was exceeding weak in thofe days;
and I am perfuaded the Lord, in graciolis
condefcenfion, looked mercifully at the fin-
cerity of my intention, not marking all my
failings, or I could not have flood before
him in any degree of acceptance. Very
great were my temptations, and deep my
diftrefs of mind for about a year ; in which
time I was but as a little child in under-
{landing the way and work of God upon
me, for my redemption. Yet, he who
will not break the bruifed reed, nor quench
the fmoaking flax, until he fends forth
judgment unto vidlory, by his invifible
power, bore up my head above the rage-
ing waves of temptation, fo that the enemy
found he could not overwhelm me there-
with : the Lord teaching my hands to war,
^nd my fingers to fight under his banner,

through

JOHN GRIFFITH. 17

through whofe blefling and alTiftance, I
found fome degree of vidlory over the bead,
viz. that part which hath its Ufe in flelhly
gratifications. Then began the falfe pro--
phet to work with figns and lying won-
ders, in order to deceive my weak and un-
fl^ilful underftanding ; as it is written,
* Satan is transformed into an angel of light :'
fo I found him, at leaft in appearance. He
that goes about feeking whom he may de-
vour, perceiving I was too much enlighten-
ed from above, to be eafily drawn into fen-
fuality, craftily attempted my deftrucSion
another way, viz. by fetting himfelf up,
undifcovered then by me, for a gviide in the
way of mortification, which I was then re-
folved, through divine afliftance, to walk
carefully in, by denying myfelf in all things
which appeared inconfiftent with the di-
vine will. This fubtil transformer, tak-
ing advantage of the ardency of my mind
to prefs forward in this necefTary concern,
fuggefled that my work would be much
eafier in obtaining a complete vidlory over
evil, were I to refrain for a time from
fome of the neceffaries of life, particularly
from eating, and taking my natural reft in
fleep, except juft as much as would preferve
life; and that I mufl conflantly keep my
hands employed in bufinefs, as idlenefs is
the nurfery of vice ; neither was he want-
ing to bring fcripture, and pafTages out of
other religious books, to confirm thefe re-

quirings.

i8 The JOURNAL of

quirings. I tlien really believed It was the
voice of Chrift in my mind commanding
thefe things, and therefore endeavoured to
be faithful therein, till m_y natural ftrength
abated, and I found my body grew mvich
weaker thereby. Greatly diftrefled I was,
when at any time I fell fliort of what I
apprehended to be my duty in thefe refpe6ls,
he that required tl^is fervice being a hard
malier; though he had power to deceive,
yet he could not give me faith that I fliould
overcome. My views in thofe days were
indeed very difcouraging, my poor afflidled
foul being almoft funk into defpair. My
friends took notice that I was in uncommon
diftrefs. The family in which I then
lived, as they could not be altogether ig-
norant, though I concealed it as much as
I Could, of my wandering about in the
fields, &c. at nights, and much refraining
from food (my deep diftrefs being alfo very
legibly imprinted on nay countenance)
feared, as I afterwards underftood, left I
Ihould be tempted to lay violent hands on
myfelf. I was forbid in myfelf to tell my
condition to any, as that would be feek-
ing relief from without; a very improper
and unworthy thing.

Notwithftanding which, the God of all
grace, who permitted this uncommon af-
flitJhion to fall upon me for a trial, and not
for my deftrucflion, was pleafed, in wonder-
ful kindnefs, to move upon the heart of a

minifter

JOHN GRIFFITH. 19

minifter belonging to our meeting, to vifit
me, and to open a way for my deliverance.
He ftriilly inquired concerning my inward
condition, informing me that friends were
much concerned about me, as it was' very
obvious I was under fome uncommon tempt-
ation. I was at firft very unwilling to open
my ftate to him, however he at length pre-
vailed, and took the oppprtunity to Ihew me
that I was under a grofs delufion of Satan.
Being thus, through the Lord's mercy,
delivered from the wicked defign of mine
enemy, which undoubtedly was to deftroy
both foul and body, I had, in reverent
thankfulnefs, to rejoice in his falvation. I
then clearly fav/, that Satan in his religious
appearance, was alfo carefully to be guarded
againft ; as nothing in religion can be accept-
able to God, but the genuine produdt of
his unerring fpirit, diftin(5lly heard and
underftood by the ear of the foul, and the
renewed underftanding. '' My fheep," faid
Chrift, '' hear my voice ;" which I now began
to experience fulfilled ; blefTed be the Lord
for ever! I had many precious openings into
the divine myfteries about this time; and
when I read the holy fcriptures, they were
opened to my underftanding, far beyond
whatever they had been before, fo that I
had very great comfort ; my hope being re-
vived, and my faith much flrengthened, by
thole things that were written aforetime.
I am well aflured, by certain expeFience,

D that

20 The journal of

that the myfleries couched in thofe holy
writings, cannot be profitably underftood,
but by the fame fpirit which infpired the
penmen of them: therefore it is vain pre-
fumption, for fallen and unregenerate man,
by his earthly wifdom and human learning,
to attempt the unfolding heavenly myfleries.
The lip of truth hath fignified, they are hid
from the wife and prudent of this world, and
revealed unto the humble dependent babes and
fucklings ; thofe who fenfibly experience
their fufficiency for every good word and
work, to proceed immediately from God
alone; and that Chrifl ' is made unto them,
' wifdom andrighteoufnefs, fandlification and
* redemption/ The want of this inward
living fenfe, hath been the caufe of, and hath
opened the way for, that great apoftafy, dark-
ncfs, and error, which have overfpreadChrif-
tendom, io called. There is no way for its
recovery, but by humbly fubmitting to
Chrifl inwardly revealed, and learning the
nature of true religion of him, the great
author thereof: for I am well allured,
tH^t forward adive and inventing felf muft
be denied, abafed, and laid in the dufl for
ever, and the Lord alone exalted in our
hearts, before we can come up in the feve-
ral duties of religion, with divine appro-
bation. This I faw, in the divine light
which began to fhine out of my darknefs,
and feparated me therefrom, was the great-
er light which was to rule the day of

God'iJ

JOHN GRIFFITH. 21

God's falvatlon, and that all the faved of
the Lord mufh carefully walk in this light,
wherein there is no occafion of ftumbling.
I alfo faw, that when it pleafed the Lord in
wifdom, for a trial of my faith and pa-
tience, to withdraw this holy light, and
there was a fitting in darknefs, and as in the*"
region of the fhadow of death for a time, fo
that I had no diftind knowledge therefrom
what to do; that it was my indifpenfible
duty to ftand flill, and w^alt for my fure
unerring guide; if at thofe times, felf
would arife and be mieafy, it muft be
brought to the crofs, there to be flain.
By fuch experience, I found I was nothing,
and that God was all things neceflary for
fdul and body; that if I was brought into
a (late of perfecfl reconciliation with him,
I muft know all things made new.
• About this time I had a diftant view of
being called into the w^ork of the miniftry ;
my mind being at times wonderfully over-
fhadowed with the univerfal love of God, in
the glorious gofpel of his Son, to mankind,
(to that degree that I thought I could, in_^
the ftrength thereof, give up to fpend and
to be fpent, for the gathering of fouls to
him, the great Shepherd of Ifrael;- and that
I could lift \ip my voice like a trumpet, to
awaken the inhabitants of the .earth: but
r found all this was only by way of prepa-
ration for this important work, and that I
had not yet received a commiffion to engage

thereiao

22 The journal of

therein. A fear was tipon my mind, and
care, left I fliould prefume to enter upon
this folemn undertaking without a right
call ; it appearing to me exceeding danger-
ous to fpeak in the name of the Lord,
without a clear evidence in the niind, that
he required it of me; which I then fully
believed he would in his own time, which
was to be waited for. From this time, until I
was really called into the work, I frequently
had, but efpecially in religious meetings,
openings of fcripture-pafTages, with lively
operations of the divine power in my
mind; and fometimes with fo much energy,
that I have been almoft ready to ofter
what I had upon my mind, to others. But
as, through an holy awe which dwelt upon
my heart, 1 endeavoured to try my offering
in the unerring balance of the fancluary,
I found it was too light to be offered, and
w^as thankful to the Lord for his merciful
prefer vation, in that I had been enabled to
avoid offering the facrifice of fools. But
when the time really came that it was
divinely required of me, the evidence was
ib indifputably clear, that there was not
the leaft room to doubt ; yet, through fear
and human frailty, I put it off, and did not
give way thereunto. But oh! how was I
condemned in myfelf ! The divine fweet-
nefs which had covered my mind in the
meeting was withdrawn, and I left in a
very poor difconfolate flate, wherein- 1 was

icadv

JOHN GRIFFITH, 213.

ready to beg forgiveaefs, and to covenant
with the Lord, that if he would be pleafed
to favour me again in like manner, I would
give up to his requiring. At the next firft-
day meeting, the heavenly power over-
ftiadowed me in a wonderful manner, in
which- it was required of me to kneel down

i'n fupplication to the Lord in a few words:
gave way thereunto, in the dread of his
power, with fear and trembling. After
which, oh, how my foul was filled with
peace and joy in the Holy Ghoft! I could
then fing, and make fweet melody in my
heart to the Lord, As I remember, I was
twenty-one years of age, the very day I firfl
entered into this great and awful work of
the miniftry; which was the 21 ft of the
5th month, old ftile, 1734.

I have found my mind engaged to be fome-
what particular concerning the manner of
my entering into the work of the miniftry,
to ftand by way of caution and proper en-
couragement to others, who may perufe
the fame; having in the courfe of my
obfervation had caufe to fear, fome have
taken the work of preparation, as before
hinted, for the thing itfelf ; and fo have
proceeded very far, to their own great
wounding, and the hurt of others, in bring-
ing forth untimely fruit, which is exceed-
ingly dangerous, and carefully to be avoid-
ed. Nothing is a fufEcient guard to pre-
3(erve therefrom, but the fingle eye, through

the

24 The JOURNAL of

the divine blefling, awfully confidering
what a great thing it is for dufl and alhes to
fpeak as the apoftle Peter direds, viz. *' As
^' every man hath received the gift, even
*' fo minifter the fame one to another, as
" good fte wards of the manifold grace of
*' Gk)d. If any man fpeak, let him fpeak
*' as the oracles of God; if any man mi-
**:nifter, let him do it as of the ability
*' which God giveth." The author to the
Hebrews faith, that " no man taketh this
*• honour to himfelf, but he that is called
*' of God, as was Aaron." So that what-
ever fome may pretend to, and intrude
themfelves into, unlefs they are really cal-
led of God, they will have no fhare in that
honour that cometh from God only.

The church of Chrift hath not been with-
out its trouble from falfe minifters, neither
in the primitive times, nor in ours. That
excellent gofpel liberty of all who feel
themfelves infpired thereunto, whether male
or female, fpeaking or prophefying one by
one, hath been, and Hill is, abufed by falfe
pretenders to divine infpiration; yet the
liberty ought to be preferved inviolable,
and other means found out to remedy this
great inconveniency; which would not be
difficult, were the members in a general way
fpiritually minded, rightly favouring the
things that be of God. Forward and un-
fandlified appearances, by way of miniftry,
would then be ealily awed and fuppreffed,

fa

JOHN GRIFFITH. 25

fo as not to difturb the peace of the church.
The cafe has been otherwife, as I have
bbfervecl in fome places ; but little minded, if
the words and do6lrine were found, and no-
thing to blame in the converfation. Here
the main thing, which is the powerful
demonftration of the holy fpirit, is little
regarded: and if a few are deeply pained
at heart with fuch lifelefs miniftry, they
find it exceeding difScult to lay hands there-
on, for want of more ftrength; efpecially
when they perceive what ftrength there is
againll them: for formal profeffors love to
have it fo, rather than to fit in filence.
And I have obferved fuch pretenders all
mouth or tongue, and no ears to receive
inftrudlion; fond of teaching others, but
very un teachable themfelves. I pray God
to quicken his people, and raife the fociety
into a more lively fenfe of that blefled
arm of power which gathered us to be a
people; or, I fear, the great evil above
hinted at will prove a very growing one:
profeflion without pofTelfion, being the
proper element for fuch a miniftry to grow
and florifli in. I am not quite free to
9mit a remark on this head, as I am fully
perfuaded the living members of the church
of Chrift, groan under a painful fenfe of
this forrowful token of a declined fociety.
May the Lord of fabbath hear their cries,
and regard the anguifti of their fouls in
fecret, fo as to work by his iuvifible power

^ for

26 The JOURNAL o^

for his own name's fake, and their enlarge-
ment, by turning his hand again upon our
Sion, to purge away her drofs, and to take
away her tifi and reprobate filver ; that her
judges may be reftored as at the firft, and
her counfellors as at the beginning; that
many, having their feet fhod with the pre-
paration of the gofpel of peace, may yet ap-
pear beautiful upon the mountains ! So be
it, faith my foul !

I have given fome hints how it was with
me, by way of preparative for the great and
important work of the miniftry, and the
danger of my being mifled ; even at fome-
times when I had right openings^ and felt
the fweet eiEcacious virtue of the love of
God, through Jefus Chrift, to mankind:
which, doubtlefs, is the fenfible experience
and enjoyment, at times, of every faithful
follower of Chrift, who never was called
to the work of the miniftry. I was in thofe
days apprehenfive of fome danger of being
led out at that door ; but I have fince more
fully and perfedly feen the danger of this
and other by-paths, which would have led
me to give that away to others, which I
was to live upon myfelf ; and out of the
humble dependant ftate, in which only
there is fafety, to have a wilF and way of
my own, that I might be furnifhed and
enriched with much treafure. But fincerity
of heart, and my endeavours to preferve the
fingle eye, through the watchful care of
^ Divine

J O H N G R I F F I T H. 5;

l3ivlne Providence over me^ brought the
da)r of the Lord upon it all t fo that I came
clearly to fee, and experimentally to know,
my fiiificiency v^as of God ; that there mull
be a fteady dependance on the Lord, to be
immediately fitted and fupplied, every time
I was to engage in this folemn fervice. I
ardently defire, that all who have the leaft
apprehenfion of being called into the work
of the miniftry, may dwell in aii holy dread
of the divine prefei;ice, and know their own
wills wholly fubjeded to the divine will,
v/aiting for a diftindl and clear certainty of
the Lord's requirings, not only in entering
iipon it at firft, but alfo at all other times*
And as felf comes to be laid in the dud
for ever, they will receive undeniable evi-
dence, in their own minds, of the certainty
of their miffion ; and they will not be with-
out a teftimony thereof, from the witnefs
for God in the confciences of mankind,
amongft whom they are feut to miniften
They will be a favour of life to the living
in the truth, and of death to thofe who are
in a ftate of death. Let it ever be remem-
bered, that nothing of, or belonging to,
man, can polTibly add any iuftre or dignity
to fo divine a gift. Neither will the beft
and moft curioudy adapted words or doc-*
trine, ever fo truly and confiftehtly delivr
ed, be anymore than as founding- braft^
as a tinkling cymbal, without the power,
light, and dcmoiiitration of the fpirit of

i: ^hrift.

^8 Th£ JOURN Al. o^-

Chrift. There is no occafion at all, for
thofe who regard his power as the fubflance
of their minillry, to be any wife folicitous
about words; as the lowed and moft fim-,
pie are really beavitiful, when fitly fpoken
imder that holy influence.

Having thus entered upon the folemn and
awful fervice of the minillry, I gave up for
the moft part, as I found the requirings of
truth, through the divine power and effi-
cacy thereof, moving upon my heart, and
fubjeding my Will, to utter a few word*
in a broken manner, with fear and trem-
bling; the Lord being exceeding merciful
to me, as a tender father, taking me by the
hand, and making me willing by his mighty
power, to be counted a fool for his fake and
the gofpel's.

The meeting I then belonged to was large,
and a valuable weighty body of friends
therein ; who, as far as I could obferve by
their carriage, did own and approve of my
weak and low appearance in this fervice:
yet they ufed Chriftian prudence, not to
lay hands fuddenly, but gave me full oppor-
tunity to make proof of my miniftry, and
to feel my feet therein.

About this time, a fine fpring of minif-
try was opened within the compafs of our
Yearly- Meeting; there havings by account,
about one hundred opened their mouths in
public k teftirnony, in little more than a
year; divers of whom became powerful abk

minifter^,

JOHN GRIFFITH. i^

minifters, and fome of them withered away
like unripe frviit. About ten appeared v\ith-
in that time, in the particular meeting of
Abington, to which I belonged.

As I was enabled to wait on my miniftry,
I experienced a confiderable growth and en-
largement; and, in a faithful difcharge of
duty therein, great peace and heavenly con-
folation, like a pleafant refrefliing ftream,
flowed into my foul. I alfo found, that it
was a means of engaging the minds of
friends, in a fweet and comfortable near-
nefs of unity with me, which I had never
before fo largely and livingly felt. Many
young well-minded people, and fome others
of little experience, feemed to admire my
gift, and would fometimes fpeak highly
of it, which they did not always forbear in
my hearing. But oh how dangerous this is,
if delighted in by minifters ! It may be
juftly compared to poifon, which will foon
deftroy the pure innocent life. My judg-
ment was againft it ; yet I found fomething
in me, that feemed to have no averfion
thereunto, but rather inclined to hearken
to it, yet not with full approbation. 7hc
fame thing in me would want to know,
what fuch and fuch, who were in mofk
efteem for experience and wifdom, thought
of me. I fometimes imagined fuch looked
fhy upon me, which would much caft me
down; all which, being from a root or
fibre -of felf, I found was for judgment,

* and

30 The JOURNAL op

and muft die upon the crofs, before I was
fit to be trufted with any great ftore of
gofpel treafure. I begun alfo to take ra-
ther too much dehght myfeif in the gift;
which had not divine goodnefs in mercy,
by a deep and diftreffing baptifm^ kindly pre-
vented; might have opened a door for fpiri-
tual pride (which is the worft of pride) to
have entered in, to my ruin. I have reafon to
think, that folid friends, by obferving my
large growth in the top, with fpreading
branches, were in fear of my downfall, in
cafe of a florm. However, in the midft of
my high career, the Lord w^as pleafed to
take away from me, for a time, that which
he had given me, viz. the gift of the mini-
flry, and with it all fenfible comforts of
the fpirit: fo that I was, as I thought, in
total darknefs; even in the region and ftia-
dow of death. In this doleful ftate of mind,
I was grievovifly befet and tempted by the
falfe prophet, the transformer, to keep up
my credit in the miniftry, by continuing
my publick appearances. It might well be
faid of him, that he would *^ caufe fire to
'' come down from heaven, in the fight of
'' men, to deceive them;" for fo I found it.
It is hard to imagine, how near a refem-
blance he could make, how exadt an imi-r
tation he could form of the very thing it-
felf, to the ftate of mind I was then in ;
even to that degree, that I have at times
been ready to fay, ' Ah! I fee and feel the

fire

JOHN GRIFFITH. 31

fire of the Lord coming down to prepare
the offering' ; and have been almoft ready to
give up thereunto, w^hen a godly fear would
feize my mind, and a defire yet to try it ;
by which means, the fhrong delufion hath,
been difcovered, and the falfe fire rejected.
My foul hath been plunged into deeper
anxiety, by this falfe heat, than I was in
before. No tongue nor pen can fet forth
to the full, the deep and almoft conftant
anguifh of my foul, for about the fpace of
four or five months ; being as near as I
can remember the time this fore afHidlion
was upon me. It fared with me in fome
degree, as it did with Job, refpeding my
friends ; fome conjecturing one thing, and
fome another thing, to be the caufe of this
fall, as it was apprehended ; though,
through mercy, they could not charge me
with any evil as the caufe thereof. The
moft probable reafon to them, of this alte-
ration was, that I had been too much fet
up by others, and fo had loft my gift ; and
this, I think, came the neareft to the truth
of the cafe. Yet it was not fo loft, but
that when my gracious helper faw my fuffer^
ing was enough, he reftored it again, and
appeared to my foul as a clear morning with-
out clouds: everlafting praifes to his holy
name ! My mind was deeply bowed in hum-
ble thankfulnei's, under a fenk of the great
favour of being again counted worthy to be
intrufted with fo precious a gift ; therefore I

was

3^ The JOURNAL or

was careful to exercife the fame in great
fear and awfulnefs, and more in a crofs to
mine own will than before ; as that which
was bnt too likely to have decked itfelf
therewith, was, for the prefent at leaft, in
a good degree flain. I have very 'often, in
the courfe of my religious experience, had
canfe to adore and admire divine wifdom,
in his dealings with me for my preferva-
tion in the way of peace ; being well affured,
that he will fo work for mankind, if they
are fufficiently given up in heart and foul
to him, that it will not be pofTible for them
to mifs of everlafting happinefs ; for none
are able to pluck thofe out of his almighty
hand, who do not firft incline to leave
him.

After I had appeared in publick fome-
what more than two years, I found fomc
drawings of gofpel-love, as I apprehended,
to vilit the meetings of friends in fome
part of New- Jerfey ; and being but young
in the miniftry, I was in great fear, at times,
left I fliould be miftaken, in that which I,
at other times, thought to be the divine
requirings : for I much dreaded that of run-
ning when and where the Lord did not
fend me, left I ftiould bring difiionour to
his blelfed name, and cxpofe myfelf naked
and void of proper qualifications for fo great
an undertaking, to wife and difcerning
friends. Great indeed was my diftrefs,
night and day, crying to the Lord for

greater

JOHN ORIFFITfi 33

greater confirmation ; which he gracionfly
heard, and was pleafed, by a dream or night-^
vifion, to afford me fuch full fatisfadiou in,
that I do not remember I had any doubt
afterwards concerning the fame.

I entered upon the faid journey the 7th of
the 8th month 1736; having a companion
much older than myfelf every way. We
vifited the following meetings, viz. Piles-?
grove, Salem, Aloways-creek, and Cohanfey,
where my companion left me, and returned
home, being under fome difcouragement
about the journey in his own mind. But
as I found the Lord by his bleffed power
near, opening my mouth, and enlarging
my heart abundantly in his work, I was
encouraged thereby to proceed, being join-
ed in travel by an innocent friend belong-
ing to Aloways-creek-meeting, who had a few
wotds to drop in meetings. We went frora
Cohanfey, through a great defart or wilder-
fiefs, for about forty miles, without inhabi-
tants, to Cape May, where we had a meet-
ing. From thence to Great and Little Egg-
Harbour, and had meetings. From thence,
through the wildernefs, to the yearly-meet-
ing at Shrewfbviry, which was large, and
much favoured with the divine prefence;
divers miniflering friends from Pennfylvania
were there, viz. Thomas Chalkley, Robert
Jordan, John and Evan Evans, Margaret
Prelton, and otlnsrs.

It

^4 tHE JOURNAL o]^.

It neither fuited with my growth in the
miniflry, iior my inclination^ to take up
much time in thofe large meetings. I there-
fore, for the moft part, gave way to fuch as
were better qualified for the work, and in
my efteem worthy of double honour. I
had a great regard in my mind for thofe
whom I thought as pillars in the houfe of
God, whether minifters or elders; and really
think, if fuch had given it as their fenfe,
that I was wrong in my offerings, at any
time, I fhould have been more likely to
have depended on their judgment than my
own. I looked upon myfelf, for many
years, as a child in experience every way ;
and therefore thought a fubjedlion was due
from me, to thofe who were fathers and
mothers in Ifrael, and never, that I remem-*
ber, manifefted any difregard to them ;
which is now a -fatisfadlion to my mind.
But, I confefs, I have at times fmce had
caufe to marvel at the forwardnefs of fome,
who though but children, if rightly child-
ren, have undertaken the woi^k of men,
hardly difcovering a willingnefs to give the
preference to any; and when they have been
admoniflied by thofe of much more experi-
ence than themfelves, they have been apt to
retort, or to plead a divine commiflion, and
that it is right to obey God rather than
man; as if they had the ible right of fpeak-
ing and judging too. 1 had divers times
feen the great danger of being deceived and
miflcd by the transformer; and therefore was

afraid

JOHN GRIFFITH. 35

'afraid of being over confident of mine own
.£ght^ and looked upon it thefafefk way
to ftand quite open for inftruclion, come
from what quarter it would ; there being
nothing more defired by me, thaii to be
right.

This large meeting ended well, and fweetly.
Praifes to the Lord over all for ever! From
thence I went to the following meetings,
viz. Chefterfield, Trenton, Bordentown,
Mansfield, Upper Springfield, Old Spring-
field, Burlington, Briilol, the Falls, Ancocas,
Mount-holly, Evefham,Chefl:er, Haddonfield,
and Woodbury Creek; from whence I re-
turned home. The Lord made my journey
profperous, and was to me, at times, as a
fountain unfealed, furniihing daily for the
work he had engaged me in; being, in
wonderful condeicenfion to my weak eftate,
both wifdom and utterance ; as it is written,
"Out of the mouths of babes and fucklings
"thou haft ordained ftrength." Pi^aifes to
his holy name for ever! '
' Notwithftanduig the Lord committed uii^
to me a difpenfation of the gofpel, and was
pleafed; to reward my fincere labours therein,
with the fvveet incomes of peace and joy in
the Holy Ghoft, and with the unity of the
brethren, in a comfortable degree; yet great
were my te^nptations, and various the com!t
bats I had, for divers years after, with my
foul's enemies. Oh! how hard I found it
to keep from being defi.led, more or lefs,

F with

36 Th^ journal o^

with the polkiting floods, which were at!*
moft continually poured out of the great red
dragon's mouth, in order to carry away my
imagination into unlawful delights, from
which i did not always wholly efca^pe; being
fbmetimes prevailed upon to fet bounds to
myfelf, that though I would not direftly fall
into the evil I was tempted to, yet I might
take fome diftant delight and fatisfaclion^
in approaching as near thereunto as I thought
was lawful. Thus, for want of a watchful
care, not only to fliuu that which I knew
to be really evil, but allb every appearance
of evil, I fometimes brought great anguifli
and deep diftreft upon my own naind; and
when I had gone but a httle out of the right
way, I found maiiy^ oh ! many weary ftept
and painfttl heart-achings, before I was re-^
ceived into the way and favour of the hea-
venly Father again. I have often fince been
humbly thanktul for his prefervation, even
out of groft evils, confidering my danger*
ous tampering therewith^ at times in th^
imagination. How can weak mortals deter*
mine what length they will go, when any
way is given? Moft certain it is, they go
out greatly to their hurt, who take any plea-
fure at all in the thoughts of forbiddea
things. I hav^ found, by -woful experience^
diat when the leaft v/ay is given to the
enemy^ he gains much advantage over uaf
and we are ^greatly enfeebled thereby ; fy
that, inflead of ,growing as willows by the

water-

JOHN GRIFFITH. 37

water^courfes, there is danger of withering,
and beconoung of thofe that draw back, m
whom the Lord hath no pleafure. I have
found it the firft fubtil working of Satan,
to draw me off from a conftant care of
bringing all my thoughts, words, and actions
to be tried by the light of Chrift in mine
own heart; and inftead thereof, to. examine
them by my partial reafoning part. Here,
many things really ev^il in their nature, or
tendency, or both, would carry the appear-
ances of indifterency; the pleading would
then be, there is no harm in this, that, or
the other thing; yet there hath been a
doubt perhaps in the mind to reafon away,
not duly confidering, that he who doubt-
eth, is condemned if he receive. So I have
many times found it, when the judge of aU
hath been pleafed to arife, and to find me
out, with my fig-leaf covering on; having
very imprudently, by giving way to wrong
things, in a great mealiire loft the garment
of innocence, and an holy confidence to-^
wards God. Oh! how very hot hath my
negledl occafioned the furnace to be made,
that fo the drofs might be done away.

Thus it was with me, until the many chaf-
tenings of the heavenly Father had brought
me into more fear, care, and fubjeclion.
I could not be quite eafy to omit giving
thefe hints of my many weakneffes and
failings, that others may learn thereby to be
^ware. This I apprehend to be the chief

reafon

^8 The JOURNAL of

teafon of our having the fallings and mif-
carriages of God's people traiifmitted to us
in the holy fcriptures. Thou traveller Sion-
IVard, look forward to the joy fet before
thee, not fufFering thine eyes* to wander
about thee, left they convey fuch delight
to thy heart, as nnay infeft thy foul with
pernicious diftempers, by which thou mayeft
be rendered unable to proceed on thy jour-
ney towards the holy city; and through the
defecl occafioned thereby to thy fight, thou
mayeft, in a great meaiiire, lofe the glori-
ous profpe6l of its beautiful lituation, and
the fplendor of its ftruclures. Beware thovi
do not load thyfelf with the feeming plea-
fant fruit of that country through which
thou travelleft: although they may appear
to hang plentifully on each hand, they will
neither be of any ufe to thee in that hea-
venly country whither thou- art going, nor
for refrefhment on the way thither. If thou
haft a mind to make thine own w^ay pro-
fperous, look fteadily forward, with a fingle
eye, to the recompence of reward. Bring
every motion towards feeking of fatisfaction
in forbidden places, immediately to the
crofs, and thou wilt much fooner find the
yoke of Chrift made eafy, and his burden
light; all his ways pleafant, and his paths
peace* This is abundantly better than that
tineafy in and out way of ti^avelling, finning
and repenting, repenting and iinning again;
•\Vliich lays a foiuadaticn for* murmuring,

labour^

J O H N G R I F F I T H. 39.

labour, and toil; crying out, as fome do all
their days, there is no complete vi(5lory to
be obtained over fin on this fide of the grave.
Miierable finners w^e muft remain, when
the caufe thereof is w^holly in themfelves ;
becaufe they will not come into, and abide
in, the help of the Lord, againft the mighty
enemies of their foul's happinefs, which is
altogether fufficient to give a complete vic-
tory over them ; yea, to give power to tri-
umph, and fay, '* We are made more than
^' conquerors through him that hath loved
" us."

The 8th month 1737, I fet out in order
to vilit fome meetings in Eaft-Jerfey ; hav-
ing Richard French, an ancient friend, to
bear me company. We had meetings at
Stonybrook^ Bethlehem, Lebanon, and at
a Baptift's houfe near Black-River. None
of our fociety were thereabouts, but there
were fome ranters of Rogers's followers,
who had taken upon them the name of Qua-
kers, to the great fcandal of friends in that
remote place: they came to the meeting,
being moftly women. Their impatient reft-
lefs fpirita would not fufFer them to let-
us hold our meeting quietly; yet they did
not feem inclinable to contend, but rather
to flatter and applaud us. Some of them
Hood up, after we had feverally delivered
what we had upon our minds, to fignify
their unity with our doftrine, pretending it
•to be the fame they held forth to the peo-
ple,

40 The JOURNAL of

pie, though not enaugh regarded by thenie
jBut we were not free to receive their tefti*
mony, any more than Paul and Silas could
that -maid's who was polTeflfed with an evil
fpirit; but rebuked them openly, and pub-
lickly declared our difunity with them, de-
firing the people not to look upon them as
belonging to the fociety of the people called
Quakers, as we could afTure the meeting it
was not fo ; and that we had no more unity
with thofe pretenders, than they had. I
thought the chief fervice we had at that
place, was to teftify againft thofe wild frail-
tick people, who we found had, by being
accounted Quakers, caufed the way of truth
to be evil fpoken of. This unexpected op-
pofition raifed their flighty fpirits, fo that
they became very troublefome, being full
of words, and afking frivolous queftions.
Whereupon that of Paul, to fome fuch wo-
men in the Corinthian church, caipe frefh
into my mind. I therefore called out aloud,
*' Let your women be filent in the church;"
and opened to them, that it was luch women
as they were, that the apoftle rebuked and
commanded to be filent; who not experi-
encing their fpirits to be truly fubjecSed,
that they might know how to fpeak con-
cerning the things of God with a right un-
derflanding, ought to learn infilence: not
meaning to exclude thofe of mine own fex
in the like cafe ; the fame being as necelTary
for them. We left them a$ full of them-

felvcs

JOHN GRIFFITH. 41

felves as we found them, and went from
thence to Whippany, where, in a friend's
houie, tv e had a precious meeting. The
greateft number beii!ig of other focieties, the
teftimony of truth flowed forth freely ; they
appearing to be much tendered and affecfted
therewith. After meeting, fome of them
took us bv the hand, and in an affeiftionate
maniiier expreffed their fatisfa6lion with
our laborers amongft them. From thence
w0 ; went to Plainfield, and Woodbrldge,
where we had meetings. After which yv^
returned home; having been favoured to
^ccomplifh this little journey to my own
fatisfa(?\ion.

Sometime before I entered upon the be-
fore-mentioned journey, I found my mind
pretty ftrongly drawn, and much inclined,
to enter into a marriage ftate with a young
woman belonging to the fame meeting, with-
in the campafs of which I had lately taken
a farm, and to which I was then joined by
certificate. Her name wa?, Rebekah, the
daughter of Jofiah and Sarah Fearn, and
grand-daughter of John Blunfton : ftie being
a valuable branch of a good ftock. By the
death of her brother, fhe was then pofl'efled
of that part of her faid grandfathers cftate,
where he had lived, and entertained friends
from almoft the firft fettlement of Pennfyi-
vania, until his death; which afterwards
was continued by his widow many years,
buc of Jate years had been laid afide.

It

42 The JOtJRNAL ot

It was in Lower Derby, about feven miles
from Philadelphia, near a large meet*
ing; the meeting-houfe being built on
ibme of that tra6l of land. The reafon of
my being fo particular in this account, is to
fliew the Lord's kindnefs, and gracious con-
defcenfion to me, info fully anlwering what
I had fo often defired, viz. that in cafe I
ever married and fettled, I might be fo
placed and circumftanced, as t6 entertain
the Lord's fervants and meflengers in an
agreeable maniier: on which account, as
well as that he was pleafed to give me an
affedlionate virtuous wife, I had, and have
great caufe of .humble thankfulnefs. We
took each other in mari-iage the 30th of the
loth month 1737, at a large and folemn
meeting, held in the meeting- houfe before-
mentioned, under the precious overlhadow-
ing of the power of divine love; I think to
a larger degree than I had often, if ever,
known before: which was no fmall confir-
mation of our being rightly joined together 5
it being that alone which can truly enable
to make and keep covenant rightly with
each other.

After marriage, I conftantly attended our
particular meeting, both on firft and other
days of the week; alfo the quarterly and
yearly-meetings as they fell in courfe, and
frequently vifited adjacent meetings. I vi-
fited friends in the county of Bucks twice,
but have no account by me of the exadl

time*

JOHN GRIFFITH. 4^

time. I fignified to my wife, fome time
after we were married, that I did expect, in
a few jQ^rSy I fhould findTa concern to leave
her for a longer time than I yet had done,
and gave her a hint what time I thought it
would be; which fell out accordingly j
having then a diftant view of vifiting New-
England.

When the time for undertaking that jour-
ney appeared clear to me, I gave up thereto,
in humble refignation and faith in the fuf-
ficiency of that divine power which I be-
lieved required it of me ; yet not without
fomq intervals of difcouragement, and rea-
foning in myfelf what would become of
my family and outward concerns : neither did
I then know of any companion to join with
me in this great undertaking, but at time^
believed I lliould be favoured with one, if I
gave up thereunto. However, I laid my con-
cern before the monthly-meeting to which t
belonged, requefting their concurrence and
certificate, if upon a weighty confideration
thereof, they had unity with my concern.
A certificate was prepared, whereby I was
left to my liberty to proceed; but I had
not yet heard of a companion, and greatly
feared going without. Our quarterly-meet-
ing falling quickly after, I went to it,
where I foon made inquiry of my muck
efteemed friend John Cliurchman, whether
he knew of any fui table companion for me.
He readily told me that his brother-in-law,
G William

44 Tii£ JOURNAL of

"William Brown, had procured a certificate
in order for the fame journey, and did not
then know of any companion, but believed
one would be provided for him. This was
very acceptable to me. When Williajii
Brown and I had an opportunity of con-
ferring together, which was the fame day,
we found our concerns and views fo exact-
ly agree, and our fpirits fb clofely united
for the fervice, that our hearts bowed in
thankfulnefs to the Lord, for his care and
providence over us ; believing what we
were about to engage in, was agreeable to
his will, and in his counfel. It being the
meeting for minifters and elders that day,
we laid our concern before that meeting,
where it appeared to be well approved,
which was no fmall ftrength^to us. I did
then, and hope ever fliall, greatly love and
highly value the unity of the brethren;
having found it no fmall ftrength and en-
couragement to me, in many low and try-
ing times, which are neceflkry and unavoid-
able in that folemn engagement of vifit-
ing the chvirches; efpecially now in their
low declined ftate. It became indilputably
clear to my underftanding, that it is alto-
gether impoflible to adminifter, in a feel-
ing effedlual manner, to people's fe-veral
Hates, unlefs we are baptized thereinto.
Well adapted words, and found dodrine,
as to the external appearance, may, with-
out much difEculty, be attained j feeing we

have

JOHN GRIFFITH. 45

have the holy fcriptures, and many other
good books, containing the principles of
truth, and the Chriftian experience of the
Lord's people: yet all this, delivered with
the tongue of men or angels, will prove an
empty, fruitlefs found, without the power
and demonftration of the fpirit of Chrift,
who enables his upright-hearted minifters
to fearch all things, yea, the hidden myf-
tery of iniquity, as well as the deep things
of God, even as he led his prophet Ezekiel
to look through the hole in the wall, that
the moft fecret abomination may be brought
to light, and teftified againft..

1 took leave of my dea,r wife, and fet out
with my before-mentioned companion, the
5th of the 7th month, 1741. Faffing through
New Jerfey, we had a meeting at Chefter-
field. \ye crofTed Staten-Illand, and came
to an arm of the fea, called the Narrows,
which feparates the before-mentioned iiland
from Long-Ifland, The wind blowing very
flrong, and the fea running exceeding high,
we were obliged to wait fome time ; the
ferry-men being afraid to run the hazard
of carrying us (and divers others who were
there alfo waiting) over. Towards evening
the wind fomewhat abating, they appeared
willing to venture, if we would; and we
being defirous to proceed, agreed to go. I
think we had eight or nine horfes, befides
people, in the boat. They fet all their heads
to the wind, which proved of Angular fer-

vice^

46 The JOURNAL of

vice, in bearing up the boat againfl it,
otherwife it did not feem altogether impro-
bable, but that file would have been laid
on her fide. We ran over in about ten
minutes, which is accounted at leaft two
miles and an half. We were thankful for
prefervation ; as I believe mofl, or all of us,
when we were on the water, apprehended
fome confiderable danger. We made but
little ftay on Long-Ifland, only taking New-
town meeting in our way. Then croffing
th^ water, to the main land in New- York
government, had meetings at Mamaroneckj
Long-reach, and the Purchafe. From thence,
having a guide provided for us, we fet out
for our journey, about 200 miles through
the colony of Conne6licut to Rhode-Iiland.
We met with a kind reception and entertain-
ment for our money, at a very low rate,
amongft the high profeffing Prefbyterians of
this colony: the cafe was very different
formerly, when ovir friends were baniflied
from thence by a law. I remarked, as I
pafTed along, very good order obferved in
their inns; and, as far as could be difcovered,
tlie people in general appeared to be fober,
and religious in their way; far from being
fo vitiated and corrupt as I have found
thofe in the mother-country, as they call
it. We were attacked divers times by
fome of them on religious fubjedls, but,
through divine favour, were enabled to an-
f\v*er them in fuch a manner, as that I hope

neither

JOHN GRIFFITH. 47

Neither we, nor the truth profeffed by us*
fufFered thereby. I can fay with thank-
fulnefs, I never was at a lofs in giving -
anfwers to thofe that alked a reafon of the
hope that was in me, when I had my chief
dependance on the Lord to be furnilhed im-
mediately by him aloae, without leaning to
mine own underftandlng. We were kind-
ly received by our friends at Newport on
Rhode-Ifland, where there is a large body;
fome of whom we found much hurt by
differences and parties about government
affairs; which catifed hard clofe work for
\ls in their meetings. From Rhode-Ifland
we went to the ifland of Nantucket, where
is alfo a large body of friends, amongfl whom
we had good fatisfadlion. We then returned
to the main land, vifiting meetings as follow-
ieth, viz. Sandwich, Yarmouth, SuckanefFet,
and a quarterly meeting at Pembroke, where
we met our friend Samuel Hopwood, who
was arrived at Bofton from Englaud a
few days before, in company with Mofes
Aldrich, on a religious vifit. From thence
we went to Boflon, where we had a
meeting, there being a fmall number of
friends in the town ; but truth never pro-
fpered much there: it feemed to me, that
fomething of the fame fpirit was yet alive,
and to be felt, that formerly would have
wholly extirpated our friends, and truth
as held by them, from the face of the
earth, and prevailed to inflict cruel fufFer-

ings

48 Tiife JOURNAL of

ings on many of the Lord's fervants, four*
of whom they put to death, as is related
at large in a book entitled, New-England
Judged, written by George Bilhop, and in
Sewel's Hiftory of the People called Quakers.
Happening to walk into the prifon-yard, I
obferved a very ancient building, which I
judged,^ by its appearance, might have been
the fame our friends had formerly fufFered
very great hardfliips in. Upon which I afked
fome prefent, if that was the prilbn their
forefathers put our friends into? A woman
anfwered, Yes; and added, ' It was a very
wicked thing of the rulers of that time, for
the land had fufFered for it ever fince;' or
to that import. A friend of Boilon related
to me, what he faid he had from an ancient
inhabitant of that town, who had feen that
wicked adl of putting to death the four
friends as above hinted, viz. that he could
well remember fine wheat growing about
and near Boflon; that he never knew nor
heard of any wheat blafted, or peafe eaten
by bugs, until they put the Quakers to
death ; and that they never could raife ei-
ther wheat or peafe near that town fince,
perhaps not within 15. or 20 miles^ though
I fuppofe the inhabitants were fo often
difappointed formerly, that they have not
attempted to raife any lately, the land being
generally turned to grazing, and for raifing
Indian corn. They feem fenfible of the
extraordinary alteration^ but I fuppofe few

6i

JOllN GRIFFIFH. 49

of them are willing to attribute it to that
caufe. I had fome difcourfe with one of
the inhabitants, as we were riding toge-
ther near Bofton, concerning the above-
mentioned wonderful event. He pretended
to argue a natural caufe for it ; but I en-
deavoured to Ihew him, that (according to
my apprehenfion) thofe very reafons which
he advanced to prove a natural caufe for
the change, if they proved any thing, I
thought it was diredlly the contrary of what
he inteilded, viz. he urged, that clearing
away the woods might have fo changed the
nature of the air, as to have produced a
blading quality therein. But if the airy,
any thing refembles the watry element
herein, the freer its courfe, and the lefs the
obftrucffcion it meets with, the more it purges
and purifies itfelf, and is therefore the lefs
capable of prodvicing hurtful confequences
.either to vegetables or animals.

We pafled on from thence, and had meetings
at Lynn, Salem, Cachechy, Dover, Hampton,
Haverhill, Aimfbury, Newbury, Taunton,
Coxett, and to Dartmouth yearly-meeting,
which was held there and at Akuflmet four
days : it was a large meeting. After which, we
had meetings at Rochefter, Freetown, Swan-
zey, Leicefter,Smithfield, Providence Woods,
at one Harris's, Greenwich, South Kingfton,
Connanicut-Ifland, Portfmouth, Tiverton,
Little Compton, and fo to Newport again :
divers of which meetings were large. The

Lord

50 The JOURNAL OF

Lord was gracioufly pleafed to furnifli vis,
according to the occafion, painfully to la-
bour amongft the profeflfors of truth in thofe
parts, many of whom appeared to us igno-
rant, in a forrowful degree, of the life and
nature of true religion. Our fpirits were
often very deeply baptized on their account,
in great travail, that Chrift might be formed
in them. It was a very exercifing laborious
jom-ney, but the Lord mercifully made all
up to us, by the comfortable enjoyment of
his love and peace flowing into our hearts.
Glory to his name for ever !

From Newport we fet our faces home-
wards, taking Wefterly meeting in our way,
and proceeded through the colony of Con-
nedlicut to Long-Ifland; upon which we
had meetings at Cowneck, Jofeph Lea-
tham's, Jericho, Weftbury, Matinicock, and
lyere at the quarterly-meeting at Flufliing.
From thence we crolTed the water to Weft-
chefter on the main; got thither fome
time before the hour appointed for the
meeting, and ftaid a while at an inn in the
town. The landlady coming into our room
in a pleafant manner, faid, ' I fuppofe you
are travelling friends ?' My anfwer was. We
are travellers, and we are friends ; therefore
we are travelling friends; * But I fuppofe,
faid £he, you are preachers;' and added,
* I like your way very well, as you come
up to the command of Chrift, in travel-
ling about as you do, more fully than our

minifters.

JOHN GRIFFITH. 51

minifters : but there is fomething lack-
ing with you.' What is that, faid I? ' Why,
faid £he, you fhould baptize as well as preach.'
I then aiked her what we fhould baptize
withal. She replied, ' With water to be fure;
for it is not in the power of man to baptize
with any thing elfe.' Upon which, I fliewed
her from the holy fcriptures, that the
primitive minifters of Chrift were fo gifted^
as to be able to baptize believers into the^
name or power, of the Father, Son, and
Holy Ghoft; inftancing, in particular, that
paffage of Peter at the houfe of Cornelius ,
Ad:s xi. 15, 16. ^^ And as I began to fpeak,
*' the Holy Ghoft fell on them, as on us at
" the beginning. Then remembered I the
" word of the Lord, how that he faid,
"John indeed baptized with water; but
*' ye fliall be baptized with the Holy Ghoft.'*
It is evident from this account, that by the
efFedlual preaching of Peter, the Gentiles
were baptized with the Holy Ghoft; and as
the dilpenfation of God to man is the fanae
now it was then, and he has gracioully pro-
mifed to be with his minifters always to the
end of the world, and man, by nature in a
fallen degenerate eftate, as much^ involved
in fin, and a ftranger to God as he was then;
no good reafons can be given, why the fam«
powerful efficacious means are not as
neceflary for his recovery, by a reconcilia-
tion with his maker, as they were at that
*=ime. The * v^oman w%\s very attentive to

H what

52 The JOURNAL of

what was fald on the occafion, and feemed
pretty much affedled, being quite filenced
as to that fubjedl. We invited her to our
meeting; flie told us, it was what fhe in-
tended, and alfo to prevail with her huf-
band to go too, if llie could, but doubted
being fuccefsful therein. However, flie and
her hufband were both at the meeting, and
the Lord was gracioufly pleafed to give us
a precious opportunity together, wherein I
am perfuaded flie was made in fome degree
fenfible of that baptizing power, which,
in a comfortable degree, accompanied the
miniftry that day. She was tendered, and,
at parting, with tears defired us to remem-
ber her and pray for her.

After this meeting we proceeded home-
wards, taking three meetings in the Jerfeys as
they fell in our way, viz. Elizabeth-Town,
Woodbridge, and Stonybrook. I got home
the yth of the loth month, and found my
dear wife and family well, which was
cavife of mutual thankfulnefs ; having per-
formed near as much in about three months,
as was ufually done in about four. It is
very necelTary to avoid both extremes in
travelling on truth's account; neither to be
over-hafty, nor too dilatory : yet I have al-
ways found great fatisfadlion and peace, in
being as diligent and expeditious therein,
as fits eafy on the mind, and the conftitu-
tion of body will bear ; that all may have
caufe to be fully convinced, we travel not

for

JOHN GRIFFITH. 53

for ovitward pleafare, but from a neceffity
laid upon us ; which will certainly add con-^
fiderable weight to our fervice, and greatly
tend, in the eyes of mankind, to maintain
the credit of that truly difmterefled gofpel-*
miniftry, the Lord hath been pleaied to
raife up amongft us as a people.

Having ftaid at home fbme time, to
make neceflary provifion for an increafing
family, I found a concern upon my mind to
vifit friends a fecond time on Long-Iiland
and the main land in New- York govern-
ment, and fet out in order thereunto, the
27th of the 8th month, 1743; being ac^-
companied by my well efteemed friend,
John Sykes, The firft meeting we attended
on the ifland, was a yearly-meeting, which
was held on a firft day at Matinicock. It
was a large precious meeting; many not of
our fociety being there, the Lord was plea-
fed to open the dodlrine of his kingdom
largely, and his glorious truth was over all ;
to whom alone be the praife for ever!
Notice was given at this meeting, of our
intending to be on the next firft-day at
Weftbury, not far from this place; and
that week we had meetings at Brook-
haven, Iflip, Bethphage, Rockaway, Henry
Willis's, and fo to the before-mentioned
meeting on firft-day. Friends came to it
from divers parts of the ifland, and alfo
many people of other focieties, fo that it
was a very large meeting. Their expecffca-

tion

54 The JOURNAL ox

tion was greatly out after words, which the
mailer of our afTemblies did not fee meet to
gratify ; for we were ahnoft wholly Ihut up
as to miniftry; which I hope proved a pro-
fitable lefTon of inftrucftion to many. After
this meeting we crolfed the water, and had
meetings at Weflchefter, Mam-^roneck, Long-
reach, and Ryewoods ; we then returned
to the ifland, and had meetings at Flulhing,
Oyfter-bay, Cowneck, Fluihing again, and
Newtown. ' Having finiihed our fcrvice
thereaway, we travelled homewards, taking
meetings as we paiTed along in Eait-Jerfey,
at Railway, Plainfield, and Woodbridge ;
and in Weft-Jerfey at Upper Springfield,
and attende4 the quarterly-meeting at Crof-
wicks; after which I returned home, "nnd
have to fay with thankfulnefs, that the
Lord was to me in this little journey,
ftrength in weaknefs and riches in the
time of poverty; and was pleafed to con-
dudl me fafe to my dear wife and family
in peace.

About the latter end of the year 1744, I
found my mind drawn to vifit friends meet-
ings in the weftern part of our county;
and had meetings at Eaft and Weft Not-
tingham, Deer-Creek, New-Garden, Lon-
don-Grove, Ockeihan, Kennet, and Con-
cord. The Lord enabled me, either to do
or fliffer, in this little journey, as the fame
appeared to be my duty. At Ockeflian I
^vas quite fliut up as to words, yet had

peacQ,

JOHN GRIFFITH. 55

peace, believing it was my bufinefs that day,
as it hath been many times fince, in order
(as I apprehend) to lead others into fMence
by example; as being the moft profitable
ftate they or I can polTibly arrive at in
mutability, in order to attain a right un-
derdanding of all religious duties.

Soon after my return home, I went into
Weft-Jerfey, to vifit the follov^ing meet-
ings as I found my mind drawn thereunto,
viz. Haddonfield, Ghefter, Evefliam, Mountr
Holly, Ancocas, Old-Springfield, Tren-
ton, and Burlington quarterly-meeting,
in which I had good fatisfadlion. I think
it was about this time, I went in company
with my well-beloved friend Michael Light-
foot, to the yearly-meetings at Cecil, and
Treadhaven in Maryland, wherein we
were greatly favoured. He returned home-
wards from Maryland, but I went to fome
meetings in the lower counties of Kent and
Newcaftle, had a meeting at Duck-Creek,
and went to the yearly-meeting at Little-
Creek, which was a very precious meeting,
divine goodnefs greatly pverlhadowing the
fame, to the tendering many hearts. From,
thence I went to George's-Creek, and New-
caftle, and returned home.

I have no account by me, of any other
journey in the fervice of truth, until the
id month J 746, that I went in company
with our worthy friend before-mentioned,
to the yearly-meeting at Salem, in Weft-
Jerfey; an<J vifited Cohanfey, and Pilei-

grove

^6 The JOURNAL of

grove meeting. In the 3d month the fame
year, I went to Chefterfield quarterly-
mieeting in the Jerfeys, and had meetings
at Stony-Brook, Burlington, and Haddon-
field.

In the 5th month the fame year, I vi-
fited the county of Bucks, and had meet-
ings at Middletown, Briftol, the Falls,
Wrights-Town, Buckingham, and Plum-
fted; taking North- Wales meeting in my
Return home. The Lord was my fure
help and fufficiencyin all thefe journies,
affording the comfortable enjoyment of
fweet peace in my return: to whom the
praife (if any fervice was done) is, and I
hope ever will be, freely offered up ; for he
alone is worthy thereof for ever !

Soon after my return home, great and
inexpreffible afflic5lions were permitted to
befal me, and my greatly afBicled family,
mofl of whom were feized with the bloody-
flux ; of which diflemper I buried a daughter
between four and five years old, and was
taken very ill myfelf of the fame diforder:
in which time, my dear wafe was deliver-
ed of a child, and for a week or ten days
after appeared hopeful to do well and ,
recover; but being, in that condition, taken
with the before-mentioned diftemper, was
in a fhort time removed from me by
death, leaving me three fmall children,
the youngeft about two weeks and three
days old. I found the Lord near to fup-

port

JOHN GRIFFITH. 57

port my diftrefTed drooping fpirit under
this great affliftion. I well remember,
when my dear wife lay with great fymp-
toms of death upon her (having alfo fome-
times, as I thought, intervals of hopeful
fymptoms) my mind was in a very great
and painful fludluation between hope and
fear. It feemed to me then impoffible to
give her up for death, and to be wholly
feparated from fo valuable a companion;
but the Lord, who formerly rebuked the
winds and allayed the ragings of the fea,
was pleafed, as in an inftant, to bring an
holy calmnefs over my mind, in which
there was an intire refignation to his divine
will ; f b that I could fay, with Job of old,
** The Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh
*^ away, blefTed be his name." I did not,
from that time, look upon her as any more
mine, but gave her up into his hands who
had kindly beftowed her upon me. I write
this by way of encouragement to others,,
that they may live in the fgar of God,,
and give up in fteady obedience to his re--
quirings ; and then, I am well afTured, they
may lean upon him in all their afflidlions,
and they will find to their comfort, that
thofe things which appear impoffible with
man, are poffible v/ith God ; who will make
hard things eafy and bitter things fweet to
his humble followers. She departed this
life the 2 2d of the 7th month, 1746; we
having lived together near nine years.

I

58 The JOURNAL of

I have this fhort teftunony to give con-
cerning my dear deceafed wife; that fhe
made it her early care to lead a fober and
virtuous life ; and I know a godly concern
remained upon her mind, to keep a con-
fcience void of offence, both towards God
and man ; being engaged (according to abi-
lity received) for the promotion of the
blefTed truth, and gladly entertained the
Lord's faithful labourers; eftceming it a
bleffmg to be favoured with their company.
And when I found a concern to travel
abroad in the fervice of truth, fhe freely
gave me up thereunto; having, with great
fatisfa.6lion, to acknowledge the Lord's
goodnefs, in favouring her with true peace
and contentment in my abfence ; and alfo,
in a fteady truft and dependance on his
providence, for our fupport every way in a
faithful difcharge of duty.

She was favoured with great calmnefs
and refignation to the divine will, in her
laft illnefs, either to live or die; fignify-
ing, that fhe did not find any thing in
the way ; and that, if it pleafed the Lord
to remove her out of this world, fhe hoped
it would be a glorious change to her, and
that fhe fhould go to her little innocent
babes who were gone before her; often
confefhng the Lord's goodnefs in ^ving
her fo much eafe both of body and mind:
She was very loving to thofe who vifited
her in her illnefs, and faidj'flie had no-
thing

JOHN GRIFFITH. 59

thing but love and goodwill to all. Sh«
took her leave of our children in a very
tender and affedlionate manner, committing
them to divine providence, and expreffing
her belief, that his watchful care would
be over them when Ihe was gone. The
apprentice and fervant boys were called for,
at her requeft; flie took them by the hand,
and in a loving tender manner, gave them
good advice; an heavenly fweetnefs accom-
panying her words, which much affedled
thofe prefent. She difcovered great near-
nefs of aifedlion to me^ to almoll the very
lalf , and ih departed this life in fweet peace,
of which I was favoured, after her removal
from me, with a certain evidence to my
unfpeakablc fatisfacSlion ; whereby I plainly
faw my great lofs was her everlafting gain,
and was enabled to bow in humble ae-
quiefcence to the divine will, who knows
what is beft, and orders all things in per-
fedl wifdom. '

Being apprehenfive that I fliould be edn-
cerned to travel pretty much abroad in th&
fervice of truth, for fbme years; I thought
it my duty, as foon as I conveniently could^
to place my children where they might be
trained up in the way of truth, and to go
myfelf out of bulinefs. This vievV or ap-
prehenfion of things, had been gradually
coming upon my mind for a conliderable
time; but now the weight thereof much
incrcafed; the time alfo of entering there-?

I upon.

6o The t JOURNAL or

iipon, appearing pretty clear to my mind
having found it my incumbent duty, not
only to wait for a full confirmation of a
right call to travel abroad in the work of
the miniftry, but alfo to know the accept-
able time for engaging therein; all which
will be fully difcovered by fuch, as with
a fingle eye to God's glory, defire, above
all things, to be found faithful.

The firft journey I entered upon, was
a fecond vifit to friends in New-England.
I fet out in order thereunto, the 23d of the
3d month, 1747, and was at two meetings
in Burlington next day. From thence I
went to a quarterly-meeting at Chefter-
field; after which I got to Flufhing on
Long-Ifland the 27th. Next day I at-
tended their week-day meeting. The year-
ly-meeting for that province then came
on, which held four days. It was large,
and the divine prefence appeared therein to
our mutual comfort and ftrength.

The 2d of the 4th month, being four
in number, we fet out for Rhode-Ifland;
pafling through the colony of Connsfticut*,
we met with civil courteous ufage, as be-
fore, when I travelled through that country.
I felt great love in my heart towards them,
in which I had a ftrong perfuafion, if not
fomething of a forefight, that truth, in the
Lord's time, will break forth and fpread
in that colony. For though I believe fuper-
•ftition and bigotry are very predominant

amongft

JOHN GRIFFITH. 6i

amongft them; yet they appeared to me
in general, a cleaner people in their mo-
rals, than in many other places where I
have travelled. At New-Haven in that
colony, they have a college in order to
train up their, minifters, &c. I found an
inclination t6 go amongft the collegians,
who gathered about me, carrying them-
felves civil and refpedful. I had much
difcourfe and reafoning with them con-
cerning our principles : they appearing de-
firous of information, I anfwered their
queftions in a concife manner; referring
them to Robert Barclay's apology (which I
fuppofed they had in their library) for a
further explanation thereof. I could not
help remarking, with pleafure, the becom-
ing order they obferved in their queftions
and anfwers : one at once, without the leaft
flout, jeer, or any thing like mockery. I
found work alfo amongft them, to remove
the prejudice fome had imbibed againft us
as a people, on account of the wicked and
frantick behaviour and conduct of one
Rogers and his followers; who, I think,
dwelt about New-London in that pro-
vince, calling themfelves Quakers ; and
as there were none of the right fort, that '
people might fee the difference, they were
ready to conclude, that all the people cal-
led Quakers were fuch, to the great re-
proach of our fociety. I declared to them,
that their adions were as much abhorred

by

6% The JOURNAL ov

by us, as they could be by 'any people what-
ever; that Rogers and his company of ran-
ters were no more of our fociety than they
were of theirs; that it would be very hai»d
and unjuft, if we, as a people, fliould be de-
famed, by means of a crew, whom we
had nothing farther to do with, than to
let the world know our abhorrence of their
practices, and that they took our name upon
them, in all probability, as a cloak to cover
their wickednefs. Thefe young fludents
readily admitted what I laid to be very jvifl
and reafonable. I believe this opportnnity
tended to the reputation of our fociety;
and am fure it was to my comfort and
fatisfadlion ; feeling the love of God flow
in mine heart towards thofe young men,
fome of whom I did not think far from
the kingdom. I called again to fee them
in my return, and gave them fome books,
viz, two letters written by Samuel Crifp,
giving reafons why he johied with the peo-
ple called Quakers; a Treatife on Bap-
tifm, by William Dell; and I think fome
others, but do not now particularly re-
member; which they received very kindly,
ftill carrying themfelves refpe(5lful to me.
Now I am on thefe remarks, I cannot well
omit taking notice pf the great difference
pbferved by me fince in the nation of Eng-
land, at the two great univerfities, in th^
t)ehaviour of the ftadents, whom they pre-
tend to be training up for gofpel-mini*-

fters.

JOHN GRIFFITH. 63

fters, and for fome other employments to
get a living by. Oh ! what floutings, jeer-
ings, mockings, and deriding of that which
is, ferious and humble like true religion!
as though to w^ork out our falvatlon with
fear and trembling, were not now the way
to the kingdom of God; but that a fuf-
ficient all u ranee, to feoff at and ridicule
what in the primitive church and by the
people of God in all ages, was accounted
religious, were now the diftinguiihing mark
of true Chriftians, and minifters of the
gofpel. How have they frequently broken
in upon our peaceable quiet meetings, like
the raging foaming waves of a troubled fea,
calling up mire and dirt! Such a con-
ducft gives fober difcerning people, caufe
to look upon them as a neft of unclean
birds; who, inflead of promoting true re-
ligion, may be inftrumental to fubvert it.
I have often wondered, feeing the condufl:
of many of thefe pretended gofpel-mini Iters
is obvioully fo very bad, not only whilft
they are learning the trade of preaching,
but alfo in their following the fame for
a livelihood ; how it comes to pafs that the
people bear them. One reafon that appears,
is, the laws of the land are much in their
favour; but the principal reaion is, that
people, in aim ft a general Avay, are ftran-r
gers to the life and power of true religion ;
^eing fatisfied with a profeilion thereof,
and having itching ears, heaji to them-:?

feives

64 The JOURNAL OP

felves teachers; erroneoufly fuppoling the
principal part of religion to confift in per-
forming what they call religious duties ;
as hearing fermons, prayers, and finging
pfalms, 8cc. fome of the hearers being fb
dark as to fay, fuch a one is a good teacher,
though, perhaps, a drunkard, a fwearer, or
guilty of other evils. It is plain, that the
Itrengch and fecurity of fuch minifters, is
in the darknefs and ignorance of people's
minds. We do not read in the Revela-
tions, of the locufts coming upon the earth,
until the fmoke arofe out of the bottomlefs
pit and darkened the fun and air; and
whenever the children of men ihall, in a
general way, turn to the light of the Sun
of Righteoufnefs in their own hearts,
inyftery Babylon, the mother of harlots,
mud fall, and thefe her merchants will
be wholly rejected. All their abominable
craft will be fully difcovered. Great will
be their torment, fear, and diftrefs in that
day! The Lord Almighty haften the time
for his own name's fake, when all craft
violence, and fliedding of human blood may
be at an end; and righteoufnefs cover the
earth, as water covers the fea !

Some of the inhabitants of New-Haven
fignified their defire that we Ihould appoint
a meeting there, but we did not find fuf-
ficient ftrength and courage to anfwer their
requeft; fo proceeded on our journey, and
got to Newport, on Rhode-Ifland, the 8th

of

JOHN ^GRIFFITH. 65

<5f the 7th month. Here we were kindly
received by friends, and attended their
yearly-meeting, which begun at Portf-
mouth, where it held only one day, being
a meeting for Worfliip; after which, the
meetings for worfliip and buiinefs were
held four days at Newport : they were very
large and divinely favoured, fo that thofe
who depended on the Lord alone for wif-
dom and ftrength, were enabled to come
up in the difcharge of their refpedlive duties,
to their peace and comfort. When thi&
great meeting was over, I had meetings at
Tiverton, Little Compton, Accoakefet, and
Aponyganfet, on firft-day, and was at their
monthly-meeting on fecond-day. Next
morning, about eight o'clock, I went on
board a vefTel bound to the ifland of Nan-
tucket, John Hanes mailer, where we ar-
rived about one o'clock next morning. I
ft aid upon this ifland about fix days, and
was at their yearly and monthly-meetings j
having good fatisfaction therein. I re-
turned in the fame veflel, and landed on
the continent in about fix hours j had a
meeting at Falmouth, and went to their
m^onthly-meeting at Sandwich, and attend-
ed the quarterly-meeting which was held
there. Here I met with divers friends from
our parts who were on the fervice of truth.
We had very clofe fearching laborious fer-
vice amongft them, as things were very low
and much out of order ; in part owing to

the

66 TtiE JOtJRl^AL c5^

the neglect of fome members whofe minds
had been too much taken np with earthly
things to watch over the flock, as thofe
who muft give an account. We endeavour-
ed to lay the weight of things more clofcly
upon the adlive members, and left them to
the Lord's dealings; knowing, " that al-
*' though Paul may plant, and Apollos may
*' water, it is he alone that can give the
** increafe."

I went from thence to Pembroke, where
I had a meeting; and through Bofton to
Lynn, where I had a meeting alfo; thence to
Salem monthly- meeting, and returned to
Bofton, and had two meetings there, being
firfl-day. From thence I went diredlly to
Rhode-lfland, and had meetings at Portf-
mouth, and Newport, to good fatisfadion :
the Lord giving power and dominion, by
the blefled eificacy of his pure word of
life, over all of a contrary nature to itfelf,
whereby I was enabled to clear my mind,
to my great eafe and comfort. I then re-
turned homewards with much fatisfadlion
and peace of mind ; taking meetings in my
way at Connanicut-lfland, and South
Kingfton ; fo proceeded on my jouriTey
through Connecticut, and lodged at New-
Haven. 1 fpent part of a day in conver-
fation, and reafoning with fome well dif-
pofed people, to fatisfadlion. I alfo vifited
the Undents as before hinted; after which
I proceeded on my journey to Long-Reach,

where

JOHN GRIFFITH. 67

whei=e 1 had a meeting, and went to the year-
iy-ineeting at We£l~Che(ler. From thence
I travelled homewards, having, as hereto-
fore, caufe to be humbly thankful to the
fountain of all goodnefs, vs^ho was near to
help as the eye was fingle to him, in all
proving times, whether in heights or depths ;
and as he was waited upon, gave wifdom
and utterance. I defire he alone m.ay for
ever have the praifc and glory, if any good
is done; as there is no good but what
proceeds from him. I had not been long
returned from the before-mentioned jour-
ney, when I laid before the monthly-
meeting I belonged to, a concern which
had been u|oon my mind fome years, to
vifit the churches in divers parts of Great-
Britain and Ireland ; defiring their con-
currence and certiiicate, if, upon weighty
deliberation, they found unity with my
propofal; iniimaclng the time for entering
upon that rolemn undertaking had appeared
to me for fome time to be drawing near,
and that I Ihould look out for a palfage
before the end of the year. A certifi-
cate was prepared, letting forth their unity
with my lervice in the miniftry, and v/itli
'my intended journey ; defiring my la-
bours therein might tend to the edifica-
tion of the cluircheis v/here my lot fhould
be caft , and for my return to them again
in ' peace ; alio exprefTmg that I had fet-
tled my outward alTairs lo the fatisfavStion

K of

68 The JOURNAL of

of that meeting : for I had acquaintccJ
friends how I had fettled them, as I thought
it concerned them to be fatisfied in that,
as well as other things ; it being my ear-
neft defire to have the fviU concurrence
of my brethren in fo great an under-
taking*

I took fome little turns in vifiting adja-
cent meetings ; and before the yearly-meet-
ing came on, I went to North-Wales meet-
ing, and about twenty miles further up
the country to Richland, in order to take
my leave of fome friends and relations, as
well as to vifit that meeting. In my re-
turn homewards I was taken very ill of
what is there called the yellow fever; be-
caufe the patient is thereby turned as yellow
as if he had the jaundice. I reached to the
houfe of my worthy friend, Thomas Foulke,
who, with his good wife and children,
were as affecflionately kind to me as if I
had been one of their neareft relations. But
this malignant fever greatly increafed upon
me. My filler was fent for, and feveral
doctors were employed. Thofe who faw
me concluded all was over, and that I mufl
depart out of this life. I took little no-
tice of any thing; yet I think I was for the
moft ' part fenfible, and could perceive I
was given up for death, by thofe who had
the c;ire of me. Once they thought I was
near drawing my lafl breath; they therefore
drew a pillow from under m^y head, and

unbuttoned

JOHN GRIFFITH. 69

unbuttoned the neckband of my fliirt, out
of kindnefs, to make the Uft ftruggle be-
tween Hfe and death the eafier. For my
part, I could not fee how it would go with
me; but had not much, if any apprehen-
fion of being taken away by death at that
time. This fore illnefs happening in the
yearly-meeting time, which was held that
year at Philadelphia, I requefted the cer-
tificate I had obtained of the monthly-
meeting, for my intended journey into Eng-
land, &c. might be laid before the yearly-
meeting of minifters and elders (as is ufugil
in fuch cafes) for the concurrence of friends ;
and if they found freedom and unity there-
with, to fignify the fame to the brethren
in England, by an indorlement thereon.
It was laid before the faid meeting by my
good friend Michael Lightfoot, and the
meetings free concurrence obtained; it was
ligned by a very great number of friends.
This was done when many thought there
would be no occafion for a certificate, as
they fully expedled it was near over with
me, as to this world. But I was not eafy to
mifs fo good an opportunity of having a
concern of fo great importance folidly weigh-
ed by fuch a fubftantial body of friends;
as I was not likely to have fuch another
opportunity, if the Lord Ihould be pleafed
to raife me up again. This fore illnefs
brought me very low indeed, fo that when"
the fever abated, and I was fit to be helped

out

70 The JOURNAL of

out of bed, I could not ftand alone; yet I
recovered to admiration ; being able, in
about a week, to ride home in a chaife,
about twenty-fix miles ; whicli 1 bore very
vveli. On my return home, my friends and
neighbours came to fee me, greatly rejoice-
ing at my recovery^ which they did not
cxpecl from wliat ibme had feen and
others had heard, for feveral of them vifited
me in my illnefs. This wi:s a time of deep
probation to me both inwardly and out-
wardly; being tried, as I fbmetimcs have
been when great wcaknefs of body hath
been upon me, with ibre and diftreiTmg
poverty of fpirit; not haying diftinct fatis-
faftion and clearnefs in my own mind
how it was with me as to m.y inward con-
dition, judging an evidence of peace and
comfort from the holy fpirit would be a
wonderful fupport at fucU times of bodily
afflidion; and have found it fo, when it
hath pleafed the Lord to favour me there-
with. But he knows vvhat is bed and moft
fvii table for us ; and therefore I hnd by ex-
perience, it is the fafeft way to reiign our
wills to his holy will ; as we muit, for the
moft part, whilll in this militant (late,
walk by faith, and not by fight. I am fully
perfuaded fuch trying difpcnfations of di-
vine providence to us, arc greatly profitable
for our growth in the way that is VvcU
pleanng to him ; and if patiently borne,
will, in his time, be a means to work for

us

JOHiN GRIFFITH. 71

us a far more exceeding and eternal weight
of glory.

Soon after my health was rellored, an
ancient friend whofe name was Peter.
Davis, from New-England, €arae to Phi-
ladelphia in order to take a paflage for
England, and our friepd Thomas Gawthrop
having performed a religious viiit to friends
on the continent of America, intending to
embark Ihortly for the fame, with liaac
Greenleaf a friend on trade, I joined
them; all agreeing to take our pailage in
a new fliip bound ior London.

One thing I would jiifl remark, that
fome friends, and, as I underRood, Ibme
others alfo, taking notice how providentially
publick friends had been prelerved during
the war which was then with France and
Spain, fo that none of them had been
taken by the enemy, did prefume thereon;
and w^ould fay There is nt) need to infure
goods in that fliip, as fo many publick
friends are going in her, flie will doubt-
lefs go fafe. 1 much diiliked this (as I
thought) unjuflifiable confidence, leeing the
judgments of the Lord are a great deep,
being unfearchable, and his ways pafl our
finding out. It becomes us in all our
undertakings, to commit ourfelves and all
we have into his hands, in hum.blc rc-
fignation to do or fuffer v\7h?ttevcr his wif-
dom may point out or permit to fall
upon us, for the trial of our faith and

patience;

72 The JOURNAL of

patience; as his mercy, power, and gooJnefs
are as confpicuous in preferving, delending,
and carrying us through great and uncom-
mon probations to his giory, conlequently
to our own advantage in the end, as in
wholly exempting us from them. Even
Job had no caufe to complain of his un-
parallelled affliflions, when they were over
and he faw how greatly he had profited
thereby. A friend faid to me before we
embarked, he did not pretend to determine
whether we Ihould be taken or not; but
however that might happen, he did be-
lieve fome friends in our ftation would be
taken ; not only to check that unwarrantable
confidence in fbme, both friends and others,
but he alfo apprehended, a fervice might
arife from fuch being call amongft thofc
dark people, though againft their will. I
did not pretend any alfurance in my own
mind, of prefervation out of the enemies
hands; but was made willing to commit
my foul, body, and all that 1 had imto the
Lord, as into the hands of a faithful Creator,
not doubting the fufficiency <^f his power
for prefervation in every condition of life.

On the 30th of the 9th month 1747, the
before-mentioned friends, who were to be
my companions upon the mighty ocean,
fet out from Philadelphia in order to em-
bark at Chefter, in company with many
friends, and called for me at my houfe
in Derby, being the direcft road. Myielf,

and

JOHN GRIFFIFH. 73

and a confiderablc number of friends and
neighbours joined them, and proceeded to
Chefter that night ; where, at the houfe of
our ancient friend Grace Lloyd, we had a
fblemn meeting. Next day, being the ift
of the loth month, about two o'clock in
the afternoon, we took leave of friends
in great love and tendernefs, and went on
board the lliip, which fell down the river
that evening a little lower than Newcaftle.
Ne^lt day in the evening, we came to an
anchor near Reedy-Iiland, where w^e were
detained by a great ftorm of wind and rain
until the 5th in the morning, w^hen wc
fet fail with a fair w^ind, taking our depar-
ture from the Gapes of the Delaware about
fix the fame evening. The wind continued
fair for the mod part, though very ftrong,
and a following fea running exceeding high
until the i8th; when, according to their
calculation, we had run about two-thirds
of our pafTage; feldom having more than a
forefail fet, and that fometimes reefed, and
at other 'times double reefed. As we had
fuch a high following fea, it was thought
the fliip was a-head of their reckoning.
From the iSth to the 23d the wind con-
tinued pretty fair, but more moderate than
before. Then it turned about to the eaft-
ward and blew exceeding hard, with a very
high fea, until the 29th, in which time we
lay to, and drove about witherfoever the
wind and waves could carrv ui. We could

get

74 The JOURNAL OF

get very little or nothing forward, but were
exceedingly toiied. This was indeed a very
trying tune; the motion of the waves was
fo violent, that though flie was a ftrong new
lliip, Ihe was beat upon with fo much force
as to make her crack from end to end in a
jliocking manner, as if {he would have
been broken to pieces. I then thought thofe
in my iituation had good reafon to know
well what they were about, and what they
expofed themfelves to. fuch dangers for;
that they had great need to have the mighty
Ruler of the lea and land for their friend.
For if he had been pleafed to withdraw
his protection, there was only about a two-
inch plank between us and eternity, which
was to me very awful at that time to think
of; for I was not without my tolTmgs and
combats of mind, at times, during theie out-
ward probations. The 29th proved a J&ne
day, fo that they had a good obfervation,
and judged we were then about an hundred
and fifty leagues from the Land's-End of
England. Next day, being the 30th of the
loth month, Thomas Gawthrop having had
a very reillefs painful night, by troublefome
dreams, &c. had ibme expedation of our
being taken (as he afterwards intimated) he
fhepped upon deck about eight o'clock in the
morning, and immediately efpied a fail upon
our windward quarter, giving us chace.
He quickly raifed the carelefs captain,
who ought to have been looking out before

tliat

JOHN GRIFFITH. 75

that time, and to have Vv^atched more nar-
rowly than he did, confidering the truft re-
pofed in him. The captain, when he per-
ceived we were chafed, appeared much con-
cerned, giving the ihip up for taken in his
mind already. We urged him to put out
all the fail he could croud, and to exert
his utmoft endeavour to efcape, offering to
affifl all in our power, as we often had
done before, being very poorly manned;
in part owing to the failors unwillingnefs
to go into fliips bound to London, left they
fliould be preffed on board men of war,
It happened to be a moderate wind, fo that
we could have borue all the fail belonging
to the ihip ; but through negledl before,
neither topgallant-fails nor fteering-fails
were in a condition to be fet; neither
would the captain be prevailed upon to
have a reef taken out of the mainfail. The
veffel was very badly fleered, as the French
remarked when they had taken us. The
captain ordered lier to be clofe hauled to
the wind, vainly hoping, as he intimated,
we fliould get to the windvvrard of them,
being deeply laden. But this was very ill
judged, if really the elTeil of judgment, as
the way of the ihip was thereby much
hindered to v/hat it would have been if
flie had gone large, taking the ftrength of
the wind. Notwithftanding this, we held
the privateer in chafe about nine hours.
She came up v/ith us about five o'clock in

L the

76 The JOURNAL of

the evening, and fired a gun under French
colours; upon which our people lowered
their colours and topfail, by way of fub-
mitting to them. They hoifled out a fmall
boat to fea, the fea running high, in which
came the fecond captain and a lieutenant
with feven or eight failors, to take poffelhon
of a very valuable prize. She was a fnow
privateefr belonging to Bayonne, carrying
ten carriage guns, and about one hundred
men, commanded by one Peter Garalon.
As the boat was rowing towards us, the
people therein made fuch a dark, mean,
and contemptible appearance, that our poor
failors cried out in a very mournful affeci:-
ing manner. We fhall all be ufed very bad
and cruelly, like dogs, for they are a piti-
ful crew, and no ofScer amongfl them: but
in this they were miftaken. For my part,
the Lord being exceeding gracious to my
foul, by the bleffed fupport and folacing
comfort of his holy fpirit, all that day I
was quite calm and eafy : all fear of the
enemy or whatever I might have to pafs
through in fuch a time of trial, was wholly
taken away for the prefent ; my mind being
filled with humble refignation to the divine
will; yet was willing, as I thought it a.
point of prudence, to ufe endeavours for
efcaping out of their hand if it were prac-
ticable. ■ '
If

The before-mentioned .fecond captain of
the privateer, whofe name was Andrew De

St.

JOHN GRIFFITH. 77

St. Andrew, boarded us with a naked cutlafs
in his hand, eight or nine men following
him. He fpoke to us in good Englifli
very chearfuUy, faying to this efFect, ' Your
fervant gentlemen ; it is the fortune of the
war, although it is ours to day, it may be
yours to-morrow;' and promifed good ufage.
He then ordered the captain, mate, and
failors, except two, and we who 'were cabiia
paflengers, being ten in number, to go on
board the privateer ; upon which the. boat
was loaded and went off. He took notice
that we w^re of the people called Quakers;
by which he gave us to underftand that he
was not altogether a ftranger to us as a peo-
ple. The chief reafbn of fending away
thofe on board a prize being for their own
fecurity, left there might be danger of
their rifing and recovering the fhip again,
we conceived fome hopes, from the known
peaceable principles we profefs, to be fo
far indulged as to have remained on board
the prize ; and therefore did not incline
to go with the firft boat- full; making
ufe of that fpace of time in an earneft
folicitation to remain there, having much
better accommodation than we could reafon-
ably expedl on board the privateer; but
all the arguments we could advance feemed
ineffeclual. When the boat returned, he
ftill urged the orders he had from the head
captain to fend us all on board: upon
which I ftepped over the fide of the veiGTel,

taking

78 The JOURNAL of

taking hold of the hand-rope, with a defign
to go into the boat : when there, it ap-
peared to me exceedingly hazardous, the
lea running very high. 1 turned about and
looked this French captain full in the face,
?tnd exprefled myfclf in as moving terms as
I was capable of, concerning the danger he
was about expofing us to unneccflkrily ;
which, through divine favrour, took fiich
impreffion upon him, that he took me by
the hand and drew me into the fhip again,
faying. You fhall flay here to night how-
ever. He had before demanded the keys of
our chefts, under pretence it was to prevent
their falling into the hands of the common
men, whereby they might plunder our
chefts ; but the true realon was, that he
and the other officers might do it themfelves
firfl; which they did after we were gone
to-bed that night, returning our keys next
morning, with large promifes of protedlion
and good ufage ; which, every thing con-?
fidered, they in a good degree fulfilled.
We could not help looking upon it as a
kind providence, which made way for our
remaining on board the prize ; having there
the free ufe of our private ftores, and being
better waited upon than before we were
^aken, having two cabin boys tor that pur-
pofe. Captain Andrew, to give him his
due, carried himfelf refpedfully to us;,* fre-
quently filling our plates plentifully, though
l^e might, at times, have lefs left for him-

JOHN GRIFFITH. 79

felf; and when he wanted any Uquors
or other provifions out of onr chefts, he
would afk us for them in a fubmiflive man-
ner, as if he had no authority to demand.
This kind carriage of his gained mvich
upon US, to place fome confidence in him,
which in the end he made ufe of to his
own advantage, by craftily getting from
ITS to the amount of about ;/^2oo fterling,
the particulars of which would be too
tedious to relate. After the French had
got poffeffion of our fliip, they put her in
a fine trim for failing, fo that it was plain
flie could outfail the privateer that took
her by much. Captain Andrew informed
us, we were, when they took us, about
eighty leagues from Cape-Clear in Ireland,
and about one hundred and twenty-five
leagues from the Land's-End of England.

The next day came on board the chief
captain, to examine the cargo, &c. He made
this Andrew captain of the prize, of which
we were glad, as he could fpeak Englifh
tvell, and from what we could conceive«of
him, there was reafon to expeft favourable
ufage under his care ; which w*as alfo pro-
mifed us by the head captain. They found
the cargo fb valuable that it was concluded
the privateer fliould keep us company, in.
order to convoy us fafe to fome port of
France or Spain. Now having new mafters,
we had a new courfe to fteer; but the
win4 fet againft us, blowing very hard and

ftormy,,

8o The JOURNAL of

ftormy. We lay to often, and were ex-
ceedingly tofled for the moft part, for about
two weeks, and did not in that time think
ourfelves any nearer Bayonne than when we
were taken. They wanted more prey,
therefore efpied and chafed feverai veffels,
who had the good fuccefs to get away frorti
them. We were once chafed ourfelves, by
a fine large ftiip; they took her to be an
Englifh man of war, and appea;red to be
greatly alarmed ; but wdien flie came up,
they found her to be a privateer belonging
to the town called St. Maloes, cari^ ing
twenty carriage guns and about three hun-
dred men. We left the privateer that took
us, a great way during this chace, our fliip
being fixed upon at a great diftance, for the
befl booty.

It was the 2 2d of the i ith month before
we faw any land, and when we did, they
proved much miftaken, thinking themfelves
fixty or feventy leagues nearer Bayonne than
they, upon better information, found. We
had pleafant failing near the land on the
Spanifh Coafl which borders on the Bay of
Bifcay ; it being high land, afforded con-
fiderable delight to us, as we had been long
confined to the fight of water only. The
24th in the dufl^ of the evening, we had
near entered the port called St. Sebaflian,
when the wind chopped in right a-head
and drove us out to fea again. The pri-
vateer got into a place called Port-PafTage,

about

JOHN GRIFFITH. Si

about a league from thence, next morning
early. But we, being forced farther off by-
contrary winds, had great difficulty to get
in that day, being for many hours towed
by fifteen boats, in which were one hundred
and fifty men labouring at their oars. They
appeared very anxious to get our veffel into
fome port, as they feared fome Englifh fhip
cruizing in the Bay^ might call them to an
account. We poor captives went on fhore
the 26th in the morning, being glad and
thankful to have the opportunity of fetting
our feet again on firm land, although in an
enemy's country ; for, fetting afide the
great affliction of being taken by an enemy,
it had been an exceeding rough boifterous
trying paffage, of about eight weeks. It
was very mild fpring-like weather there,
though about the middle of winter. We
diverted ourfelves with walking about in
the day, and lodged aboard at night,
whilfh we ftaid in that fmall place, which
was till the 29th, when horfes were pro-
vided for us to travel by land, about thirty
miles, to Bayonne; the dod:or of the pri-
vateer being ail the guard and guide we
had. There was a very plentiful dinner
provided for us at a fea-port town in
France called St. Jean-de-Luz. I was not
at all pleafed with the forward w^anton car-
riage of the women ; fuch as I had never
feen before: I reproved them, but feme,
by way of excufe, faid, the principal

thing

82 The JOURNAL OF

thing they intended thereby, was to chee^
up our fpirirs in our captivated ftate; yet
I could hardly believe their defign was fo
innocent.

We had been told by Captain Andrew,
that on our arrival at Bayonne, we that
were cabin-paflengers fliould immediately
have a parole of honour granted us ; but
we did not find it fo. Being brought be-
fore the commilfary, he ordered us to be
taken into the caftle ; yet we had the liber-
ty there to hire rooms, with beds in them
(fuch as they were,) and to have provifions
for our money ; of which we foon found
we had need to be well' ftored, as they
had a notable knack of getting it from us ;
for we could not buy any thing ourfelves,
but all muft come through the hands of
fuch as knew how to make -a property of
us. I never knew any people fo thorough-
ly furnilhed with artful ways 'to get money,
as the French. Their tongues were very
,much at command, and they could ufe
them with great wit and addrefs in order
to gain our good opinion of th^m, but
I never perceived they meant any thing
elfe in the main thereby, but advantage to
themfelves; and therefore, faw it necelfary
to be as much as I could on my guard. We
were very much impofed upon on account
of provifions^ and our money went very fafl.
Not being quite without fear, if they
fhould difcover we had fuflScient, fome other

way

JOHN GRIFFITH. %

way might be foXmcl out to get it
from us, we made inquiry whether any
could be found willing to fupply us with
money, and take our draught upon Lon-
don, allowing them a premium. We foon
found they were very willing to do it,
merely upon the credit of our fociety;
fuch reputation hath the real poifelfion of
truth gained our friends, far and wide ;
but, to our forrow, the bare profeffion of
it, in divers mournful inflances of late,
hath produced quite the contrary eiTeS: ;
fo that there hath been reafon to fear,
the great credit gained by our worthy pre-
decelfors for juftice and pundluality, is ia
danger of being, in fome meafure, loft to
the fociety, by the mifconduct of fome of
their defcendants. They told us, that di-
vers of the people called Quakers had been
amongfh them, but they were not like us ;
that they looked upon us to be precift
ftifF Quakers ; but thofe who had been
there before, behaved in a complaifant man-
ner, not flicking at the punctilio of tjie
hat. Sec. We let them know, that our be-
haviour in thofe refpe6ls, was no other than
what is confiiient with our principles; that
we could not anfwer for thofe who were
hypocrites, profeifrng one thing and prac-'
tifing another. We could difcover, that
upon all occahons, they feemed to have a
greater dependance on our veracity, than
that of the reft of our company ; and upon

M tlie

S4 The JOURNAL of

the whole, fliewed us full as much, if not
more kindnefs. Our confinement and ufage
in thi2 caftle grew very difagreeable to us ;
Vv^e therefore took the opportunity, when
the commiffary came (which we underftood
was ufually once a week) to lay before him
the. treatment we met with, and to requefh
our liberty upon parole. He pretended to
make ibme difficulty of it, and we found
many then in the caftle had been endeavour-
ing fome time to procure that liberty and
could not. But when we difcovered danger
of being put off, as they had been, ^ve prefT-
ed it upon him with more earneftnefs.
Hereupon we had a parole of honour
granted for upwards of twenty. The
place fixed upon for our refidence was
Dax, an ancient town about forty miles
up Bayonne River. We were fent thi-
ther by water, and were in the boat all
night, having very difagreeable company,
the worft of whom were Englifli and
Scotch. Thefe had laid a fcheme to pre-
ifent our being admitted into the fiune boat,
which was very ungrateful in them, as they
knew we had been the principal inftru-
ments of procuring that liberty, ef|.:>eclally
for fome of them. Without doubt, their
reafon for that attempt was, that th-ey might
enjoy the intended frolick, without any
rebuke or interruption from us. We bore
their filthy obfcene difcourfe and behaviour

for

JOHN GRIFFITH. 85-

for fome time ; but, at kngth, being eiiceed-
iugly burdened, Thomas Gawthrop and
I were concerned to reprove them very
feverely, deiiring them to coniider, what
the French people in the boat could
think of thofe who called themfelves
Proteftants. Some of them feemed at fir ft
to retort, but the weight of our fpirit^
came over them ; we . being on truth's
fide, vs^hich is ftrongeft of all, they were
foon overcome and filenced. From that
time we kept them at a didance, not look- .
ing upon them worthy of our notice in a
way of intimacy, fo that when we came
to Dax, we ieparated from them, boarding
by ourfelves. On our arrival there, we
were brought before the governor of die
caflle; and our manner of appearing before
our fuperiors being different from that of
others, vi'ith which we did not expect he
was acquainted, and might probably put an
unfavourable conftruiftion upon ; we there-
fore defired our interpreter to inform him,
that we did not ftand before him covered in
contempt, or any ways in difrefpecft, it
being our principle and practice fo to ap-
pear before our fuperiors in our own nation.
His anfwer v/as to this effedl, viz» ' I airi
not at all offended with their appearance |.
I know fomething of thofe people.' He
gave us the liberty of the town and country
around; and we got pretty good quarters,^

au4

86 The JOURNAL OF

and lived much- more to our minds than in
Bawnne Cattle .

This town is now a mean place, but
there are ftill remauis of its ancient great-
neft. I find by hiftory, it was once the
capital of Aquitalne, and was then called
Aqua SoUs, from its hot waters. At one
place I found the heat fo furprizingly great,
that I could not bear my fingers in the
water a quarter of a minute. This water was
inclofed with ftone walls of about twenty
yards fquare, having brafs or iron cocks or
ijpouts, to convey water for the ufe of the
inhabitants ; it anfwering the purpofe of
boiling water for wa filing linen, &c. There
arifes a ileam or fmoke therefrom, like unto
a vaft furnace or lime-kiln. We being
there in Lent- time (as they call it) were
told the priefts were uneafy at our being
indulged with flefh, and that they i-^quefled
the governor to give orders for preventing
it. We were informed that he turned very
ihort upon them, and laid, ^ I will give no
fuch orders. What have they to do with
your Lent ? Cannot you be contented to
keep it yourfelves?' He carried himfelfvery
civilly to us, and came once in perfon to
invite us to a bull-bating, offering, as we
•were ftrangers, to prefer us to the beft
place for the purpofe of feeing, which was
the balcony in the front of his houfe. We
acknowledged his civility, but at the fame

time

JOHN GRIFFITH. S7

time gave him to underftand, we did not
allow ourfelves to attend fuch kind of
diverfions. I underftood. they bait bulls
there with men inftead of dogs ; but I did
not fee it.

There are many worfhip-houfes, and two
nunneries in Dax. Their clergy, of vari-
ous orders, fwarm like locufts, who fleece
the people to that degree, that it may be
truly faid, of much the greater part, they
are in a ftace of abje6l poverty and vaflal-
age ; ftupidly devoted to follow thefe blind
guides witherfoever they think proper
to lead them, not daring to judge at all
for themfelves in matters of religion. Oh,
happy England ! Oh, land blelTed "with
liberty ! What haft thou not to anfwer for,
if right ufe be not made of fo great a
privilege ?

We went one day to vifit and converfe
with the nuns, which we did through large
iron grates, by an interpreter. They beha-
ved themfelves very civil, courteous, and
free in difcourfe. One of the iifters lay
dead in an apartment. The corpfe was laid
in a coffin drefled in black, having twelve
wax candles Rghted and fet in filver can-
dlefticks, fix on each fide, and fome at
her feet, and a black crofs fixed between
her fingers on her breaft, as if fhe was look-
ing at it. Several of the nuns were about
her, fome kneeling, and others fitting on

the

88 The JOURNAL of

the floor, with books in their hands, pray-
ing for the foul departed, as we conjectured.
One was ringing a bell, perhaps it Avas what
they call a holy bell, that at the found
thereof all the evil fpirits might be chafed
out of the foul's way in its flight towards
the other world. We went from this to
the other nunnery, but could not be imme-
diately admitted to fee the nuns, as they
were employed in finging pfalms or fome
kind of religious fongs, which we could
hear at a confiderable diftance: it was
thought by fome of the company, the
fined mufick they ever heard ; but I neither
am, nor deiire to be, a judge thereof. We
flood in an open entry before a fine chapel,
but did not go into it, though the door
"was open ; for indeed I had no freedom to
go into any of their idols temples, yet we
could fee many upon their knees praying,
fome before one image, and fome before ano-
ther. As we waited here, not intending
nor expelling to give any offence, it being
an open entry (but I fuppofe it was hal-
lowed, or confecrated, as they call it,
though not difcovered to be fo by us,) there
came a monk to us in a great pafTion, and
talked very faft in French. We faw he was
angry, but did not underftand what he faid,
and therefore afked the interpreters, hav-
ing, I think, two with us then. They told
us, he faid we had polluted that holy place,

viz,

JOHN GRIFFITH. 89

viz. in keeping our hats on, inafmuch as
their Lord God was there ; that if we had
no more manners, they had a way to teach
us better. We then departed, being depri-
ved of the intended vlfit to the nuns, but
that was no great difappointment. Their
crofles, either of wood or ft one, are very-
numerous, being ere(5led in all the crofs
roads, and alfo at inany places in and
about their towns and villages ; on fome
of which images are faftened, with an
imitation of the crown of thorns, the reed,
fpear, and fpunge. That the people's great
poverty may more fully appear, I ihall
give a ftiort defcription of the llioes moft
of them wear, who w^ear any fort: they
are wholly made of wood, being hollowed
out for the feet, except a piece of leather
about three inches broad, acrofs the inftep„
They appear very inconvenient to walk in, as
they do not yield at all to the feet, I am
perfuaded there is not one in iixty, in that
part of France, who wear any other fort of
flioes. Many waggon loads of thefe fhoes
are brought to Dax market every week.

The 2 1 ft of the 1 2th month, a melTen-
ger from Bayonne brought us the agreeable
news of a cartel-fhip from England being
arrived at Port-Paffage. An order came
foon after - for our return, and that we
might be ready to embark therein the 24th.
AVe hired a boat for that purpofe, and went

in

go The JOURNAL of

in her to Bayonne, being on the water all
night. It was very cold fnowy weather, and
I fiiftered much thereby, taking a great cold,
which I did not get over for many days.
What flill added to our diftrefs, was the
commiflary's receiving us very roughly,-
and ordering us into the caftle again. I
know of no reafon he had for being in that
ill-natured difpofition ; neither do I re-
member he gave us any. I was ready to
imagine it was only to furnifh a pretence
to get fomething into his own pocket by
our confinemenf. One thing made me
think he had a feeling in the profits
there, was his unwillingnefs to give us
and others, a parole. However, when it
appeared that we mufh go to prifon again,
the captain of the before-mentioned cartel
{hip being prefent, demanded our liberty ;
which I iuppofe the commiffary durfl not
deny him ; by which means we had the
liberty of the town a few days, until
matters were fettled for our travelling to-
wards the fliip.

One thing I am not willing to omit,
as it will be a fpecimen of the unaccount-
able fu perftition and idolatry of thofe peo-
ple amongft whom our lot was caft. Tho-
mas Gawthrop and 1 taking a walk, as we
often did, into the fields, came to a fmall
building, which was fomewhat in the na-
ture gf a conduit, as there ifl'ued out at one

end

JOHN GRIFFITH, 91

end, fpouts of water, over which \Vas enclo-
ftd, in net- work, an image whofe head
feemed as if cut off or fevered from his body.^
It appeared to be a fine fpring of water;
but that which came mod under our no-
tice was, to obferve fo many worfhipping
this v/ater and beheaded image: I fuppofe
not lefs than fifteen on their knees, fome
much nearer thereunto than others. We
inquired the meaning thereof 5 but none
underflood Engiifh, nor we French enough
to converfe one with another; fo that we
ftill remained in the dark, until by mak--
ing inquiry in the town, we received the
following account, viz. that it i^ St. Leon's
well, who is the titular faint of Bayonne.
That this Leon was the lirft gofpel miillo-
nary fent thither in the pagan times^ and
that he Vvas greatly perfecuted by them,
and laft of all beheaded on a hill above
that place where the Well uow is. That
when his Iicad was fevered from his bady
it rolled down the hill and fell upon this
place, upon which there immediately iiTued
out a fpring or fountain of water. That
it is nov/ . the conflant pracftice of ccnfef-
fors to fend people to do penance at St.
Leon's well; vv^ho muft fix themfelves on
their knees nearer or farther off according
to the nature of their crimes.

When our captain had fully fettled things

with the commillary relative to us, we

' N proceeded

t

qi The journal oi^

proceeded on our way towards the fliip. as
far as the town called St. Jean-de-Luz,
where w^e abode fome time, taking up our
quarters at a large inn. One day when at
dinner we received a vifit from two friars,
one of whom being an Irifliman could fpeak
Engliih well; the other had very little
Engliih. We underftood the defign of
their coming was to ufe endeavours in
their pretended catholick fpirit, for our
converlion, by bringing us into the bofom
of their church, ovit of which, they fay,
there is no falvation. This Irifli friar foon
began to afk queftions, which, for a little
while, feveral of us anfwered ; but the dif-
pute feemed too much in a promifcuous
and fcattered way, which was not quite fa tif-
fadlory ; neither did it appear altogether
fair for fo many to engage with one ;^ for
the other friar could be of little ufe in
argument, as he had not the language. I
therefore finding my mind pretty much
opened and warmly engaged, entered into
a clofe difpute with him, which my com-
panions obferving, left it to us. I foon
found that his main fupport in argument
was the authority and infallibility of their
church, but more efpecially of the Pope;
I therefore told him it was altogether fruit-
lefs to fupport arguments againll me, by an
authority I had no faith in ; but feeing he
and I both allowed the holy fcriptures to
be of divine authority, it would be much

better

JOHN GRIFFITH 93

better for us to back our arguments by
that authority only. It was exceeding diffi-
cult to bring him to this, as I beheVe he
clearly forefaw I fhould there be too many
for 'him: which fell out accordingly, to
that degree (the Lord being near, opening-
my underflanding) that the poor man was
fo confounded he knew not what to anfwer,
nor how to fapport an argument thereby ;
his memory fcarce ferving him to quote
one fcripture pafTage truly. This I fome-
times helped him in, repeating the paf-
fages he aimed at, to fee what ufe he
could make of them; but I found him as
deficient in applying, as he was in remem-
bering the holy fcriptures ; which induced
me to think that even their clergy, fo cal-
led, find thofe facred writings make fo
little for the fupport of their religion, that
they do not much regard them. The dif-
pute continued moil of the afternoon ; in
which I muft fay he carried himfelf with
good nature and civility, at lead in ap-
pearance. He would fometimes expreis
his wonder at my memory ; faying, he
thought I could repeat all the fcriptures
by heart from the beginning of Genefis
to the end of the Revelations. But I knew
who gracioufly helped me ; for I did not
go againft him in my own ftrength, the
Lord being with me in fuch a manner
that r thought I fhould not have been afraid
to have engaged with an hundred of their

ixjoft

94 The JOURNAL oi'

moil crafty priefts; and therefore I did,
and do offer the thankfglving and praife
to him alone who is eternally worthy !
Towards the conckulon he ailved me what
I thought of their eucharift, I felt (as I
thought) a fnare in his queftion, where-
upon " 1 afked him v/hether he intended
to enfnare me by that queftion ; which he
did not offer to deny. I was, however, en-
abled to anfwer him in fuch a manner as
that he could take no advantage thereof, to
bring m.e into trouble. I often cried unto
the Lord to preferve us in maintaining our
tcftimony, agreeably to what he knev/ v/as
right in his fight; and at the fame time to
be exceeding watchful over our own fpirits,
left they fliould be too much heated and
raifed in a falfe zeal, with indignation again ft
the deteftable idolatry and abominations of
thofe dark countries, that we might not
thereby imprudently put ourfelves into their
power; not doubting if the Lord required
any fervice of us amongft them, he would
fupport us therein, for he hath all power
in heaven and earth. The friars took their
leave of us in the evening, lignifying they
would vifit us again; but they never did,
nor I hardly believe they intended it.

From this place we went iato that part' of
Spain where we firft landed, and ftaid there
and at Scbaftian feveral weeks for the cartel
fhip's failing. The Spaniards are much
jnore dilagreeable to livp amongft than the

French.

JOHN GRIFFITH. 95

French. The men appeared to its in *^
general way, poor, proud, and exceecr.nS
lazy 5 filled with high conceits of thern-^
felves, both in a civil and religious fenlc.
They fauntered about, w^alking with their
cloaks over their fhoulders, looking upon us
with contempt, as we neither could bow
to their pride nor to their religion ; nor
could we look upon them in a favourable
light, when we obferved wliat Haves they
made of their wives and of the women in
general, who are employed in ail or moil
of the drudgery, even in rowing their boats.
I have fcen near the two lalt mentioned
places in their ferries, and other buhnefs on
the water, to fpeak within compafs, more
than a hundred women thus employed; and -^
fcarcely a man is feen to touch an car,
tmlefs he goes a fifhing; and then Lis
wife, or fome woman, muft bring his cloak
or fword to the water-fide g^ainlt he comes
on ftiore, and carry the fifh home on her
head, while he walks in ftate to the town.
This one of the friends who were with me
affured me he faw. I am far from envying
our . Englifli women their happineis ; I
think fuch indulgent ufage is due to the
tendernefs of their fex every w^here; jeJC I
think that were they to fee even what I have
feen, as above hinted, they would be very
thankful to the Author of their being for
cafting their lots in England, or the En-
glifh dominions. And indeed, confidering

fome

96- The JOURNAL of

fome diiEculdes the fex labours tinder,
which the men are exempt from, fuch as
child-bearing, nurfing, &c. which render
them very unfuitable for fuch laborious em-
ployment, it difcovers great cruelty in the
men to impofe it upon them.

The darknefs of popery feems greater
here than in France; although it may be
feen and felt there beyond all expre'ffions.
Oh the pain and diftrefs of foul I was almofl
continually under by the muddy jivers of
Babylon in thofe lands of darknefs ! the
harp being indeed, as it were, hung upon
tlie willows. No fweet melody nor fbng of
Zion could be echoed forth (the Lord know-
eth) under the power of the king of the
bottomlefs-pit, who rules in the myftery of
iniquity. Yet fo it mufl remain, until that
Almighty arm of power that cut Rahab
and wounded the dragon, is pleafed to arife
and put on ftrength, that he may turn and
overturn; pouring forth the phials of his
wrath upon the feat of the beaft and falfe
prophet, thereby making the fcarlet whore
of Babylon defolate, and burning her flefh
with fire; that the nations may no more
be intoxicated with the abominations of
the wine of her fornications*. May the
Lord, for his oppreffed feed's fake, haftcn
that da^, fo that the people and faints of
the Moft High ma^^ obtain the kingdom,

^If anid

* See Pfalm 137. Ifaiah 51. and Revelations.

J O H N G R I F F I T H. 97

ai\d the earth enjoy her fabbath, when fweet
incenfe in every place on the Lord's foot-
ftool may be offered up to him with gra-
cious acceptance*.

I took notice at Port-Paflage that a per-
fon went about the ftreet every evening
tinkhng a ^hand-bel!, as if he had fome-
thing to fell, yet I could not fee any thing
he had, which made me alk the reafon of
it : I was told, that it was to remind peo-
ple of the fouls in purgatory, that they
might pray for them. The m.aid of the
houfe where we boarded brought a crucifix,
defiring us to kifs it; which fome of the
Englifh then prefent did, to pleafe her;
but upon my refufal, and withal giving her
a gentle rebuke for offering me fuch an
affront, fhe aiarm.ed the houfe with com-
plaints what a bad Chriilian I w^as for
refufing to embrace that piece of brafs^
Having foon after to pafs through an en-
try, I found two men, I fuppofe lying in
wait for me. One of them came flily be-
hind my back, laying fail hold of both
my arms, in order to confine me, whilfl
the other brought the image to my face;
intending, no doubt, to force me into that
which they could not bring me voliiutarily
into. I foon perceived what they were
about, and prefently freed myfelf from their
(to me) very odious defign; fliewing them,
by a fteni countenanlJf, and feme Iharp ex-^

preffions,
* Dankl 7,

9S The JOURNAL of

preffions, that I was much difpleafed v/ith
their uncivil treatment.

I cannot fully account for the caufe, but
vhilft in Spain, I felt at times, or at leaft
I thought fo, fomething like fnares laid to
do us mifchief. However that was, the
Lord graciouily preferved us, and gave abi-
lity to maintain our teftimony, as far as he
was pleafed to require of us in thofe coun-
tries ; which was chiefly in feeling the dif-
treflins: wei^^ht of death and darknefs that
covers the holy feed fown in the hearts of
mankind, and which is prefTed down by their
fuperflition, idolatry, and wickednefs " as
*' a cart is preiGTed that is full of iheaves."
It as furely groans for deliverance as Ifrael
did under Egyptian bondage. In fympathy
therewith (as I take it) my foul was moft-

'ly in deep anxiety; being, as it were,
dumb with filence, and clofed up in pain-

I ful death and darknefs ; ready at times to
fay. Surely I am in the fame fpirit with
them. But the material difference was this ;
it was their element, wherein they lived plea-
fantly and delighted to breathe; whereas
I could neither live nor breathe therein ; fo
far from it that I often looked upon my-
felf in a manner quite dead. But let ever-
lafting praife afcend to the God of the
living, world without end ! He was plea-
fed to bring me through this horrible death
and darknefs, to enjoy the glorious day of
his ialvation again, and to be one of thofe,

' though

JOHN GRIFFITH. 99

though unworthy, who have " the Lamb flain
from the fomidation of the world" for their
light and leader. Then I faw that even
in that day of uncommon trials both with-
in and without, my life was fure (though
not difcerned by me,) being hid with Chrift
in God.

It was fome time after my arrival in Eng-
land before the thick darknefs before
mentioned quite wore off my mind ; yet I
was favoured, at times, with the ihining of
the Sun of Righteoufnefs, as it were break-
ing through a thick cloud, to my unfpeak-
able joy and comfort, and I believe in
the work of the gofpel, to the great fatis-
fa6lion of many others, to whom I was,
through deep fuffering, in fome degree
qualified to fpeak, even as deep calleth
unto deep.

We arrived in England, and came to an
anchor in Torbay, the 26th of the ifl
month, 1748, after a paffage of five days.
The Ihip was bound for Plymouth, but the
failors who had been prifoners in France,
being in fear of another confinement by
being prefled on board of the men of war,
took the command of her from the captain,
by fomething, in appearance at leaft, like
force. He told them he had a fafe pro-
te6lion from the government, whereby they
would be fecured from what they feared
by going to Plymouth. But they did not
regard that, neither was he, as we thought,

O averfe

lOo The JOURNAL of

averfe to going into Torbay,, as he had the
failors to lay it on; for we had reafon to
apprehend he did not keep us waiting in
Spain fo long for nothing; fo that the Bay
might fuit his purpofe better alfo. It being
the I ft day of the week, in the evening,
when we came to an anchor, Thomas Gaw-
throp and I had a great mind to go on fliore,
that we might endeavour to find a meet-
ing of friends. Next day fome of the com-
pany ligaifying their intention of goii-g
about midnight, that being the time when
I fuppofe the tide woidd ferve beft; we
therefore requefted they would call us,
Avhich they did. The fhlp lay a confider-
able diftance from the town of Bricklham,
where we intended to land. We had been
in tlie boat but a little while, when a
great ftorm of wind and rain beat furioully
againft us, fo that the men at the oars
found it hard to keep the boat up againft
it.. We encouraged them all in our power
to work for their own lives and ours, let-
ting them know, if they would bring us
fafc to land, they fhould be well rewarded
for their pains. The danger of being dri-
ven back to fea was very apparent, and I
believe much feared by all in the boat.
The poor men exerted their utmoft en-
deavour, which, through the good provi-
dence of God, proved fuccefsful in bring-
ing us fate to land. This I looked upon
as a merciful prefervation, having feldom,

- if

f

JOHN GRIFFITH. \o%

if ever, in the courfe of my life, appre-
hended greater danger. We were exceed-
ingly wet with the rain, but having good
fires made for us, and other neceflary ac-
commodations, did not fiifFer much there-
by. By enquiry, we found there was a
meeting of our friends held near a place
called Newton-Bufhel, about ten miles ofF,
to which we went, being truly thankful
for the great favour of a fafe arrival in Eng-
land, and the opportunity of fitting down
in a meeting of friends again; though we
did hold meetings amongil ourfelves ia
our captivity, on firfl-days, when it ap-
peared pradicable. This meeting was but
fmall, and the life of religion feemed to
me at a low ebb. I had nothing to deUver
unto them by way of teflimony. Friends
were very loving to us. On fecond-day
we proceeded towards London, as far as
Exeter, where friends entertained us kindly
that night. Next day Thomas Gawthrop,
Ifaac Greenleaf, and myfelf (leaving our
ancient friend Peter Davis with friends
there) hired horfes as far as Honiton.
There I bought a good ferviceable mare,
that carried me fafe and well through moft
of my. travels this journey in England and
Wales. We took Bridgport in our way,
and lodged with our worthy friend Samuel
Bownas, who, with his houfe-keeper, en-
tertained us with affedlionate kindnefs.
Nov7 did we bea:in to enioy the fweetnefs

of

102 The journal of

of brotherly love again. The quarterly-^
meeting for Dorfetiliire was held next day
at that place, to which we went. It was
very fmall, and the power of truth wliich
is the crown of all our religious meetings, as
I thought was very low therein. We muft
live in that power at other times, if we ex-
pect its gracious afTiIlance in tlie weighty
affairs of the church when met for the ma-
nagement thereof; for that which is born
of the flefh is but flefli, and cannot enter
into the kingdom of God, nor fo much as
fee it. All is certainly of the flefli that
hath its principal delight and fatisfadlion in
fublunary things. So that, although fome
may maintain the charadler of God's peo-
ple as to the outward appearance, yet if
the love of earthly things hath the chief
room in their hearts, the love of the Father
is not in them ; and therefore fuch are not
qualified to do God's work. Church-govern-
ment, according to the difcipline he in his
wifdom hath eftablifhed, requires our under-
flandings to be divinely enlightened to move
rightly therein; but when any fpeak and
acft in the fame natural reafon and under-
flanding whereby they manage their outward
affairs, which although capable of the one,
is altogether unfit for the other; for '' the
world by wifdom knows not God," confe-
quently thefe are not likely to underfland his
work ; but in their pretended endeavours to
promote, they mar it, and frequently darken

counfol

JOHN GRIFFITH. 103

counfel by a multitude of words without
right knowledge. Inftead of raifmg life in
a meeting, they bring death and dark'nefs
over it, to the great pain of the upright-
hearted, who are not always ready (like thofc.
above hinted at) but experimentally know-
ing their fafficiency for every good word
and work to be of God, they dare not
move until it pleafe him, by moving upon
their hearts, to open their underllandings
and to be a fpirit of judgment unto them :
in this only, there is binding and loofing,
remitting and retaining, with divine ap-
probation; which is livingly known and
fealed vipon the underftanding of the faith-
ful, by the holy fpirit of pronaife. Our
way was quite fhut up as to miniftry or
other publick fervice in that meeting. After
which we purfued our journey for London.
But I found conftant riding very painful,
not only becaufe I had not rode much
for a confiderable time, but having, accord-
ing to the cuftom of America, been ufed
to an eafy pacer. My mare now being a
trotter, was hard to bear until 1 was more
accuftomed thereunto, which then proved
very agreeable. Our friend John Hunt and
his wife met us on 7th day at Staines, and
being in a coach, prevailed on me, as I was
weary with riding, to go with them there-
into, and took me to their houfe, where I
was kindly ea|ertained, not only that time
€rf my ftay in the cijty, but alfo at divers

other

I04 The JOURNAL of

other times during my travels in this na-
tion. I continued about two weeks, in the
city, vifiting meetings as they fell in courfe,
being moflly low and pretty much difcou-
ragea in my mind with a deep fenfe of
mine own weaknefs, the greatnefs of the
work which was before me, and the mourn-
ful ftate of the church, as it appeared to
me, in London. I had but little opcnnefs
as to miniilry, yet endeavoured to wade
along as patiently as I could; it appearing
to be my principal bufinefs then to fuf-
f-T with the opprefled feed, mourning with
a fenfible remnant, who I could perceive
had fackcloch underneath, for the preva-
lence of worldly wifdom and grandeur in
that great city ; the little low meek thing,
which by the power of God was exalted
amongft us in the early time of our being
a people, was in too general a way over-
looked and difregarded ; and man's will and
wifdom taking its place, was grown very
high, affumed the government in a large
degree, where the wifdom of God for-
merly bore rule. But this did not profper ;
inflead thereof, greater wafte and defolation
prevailed. The breathing panting babes
after heavenly fubftance were greatly dif-
couraged, being ready to fay. All is gone !
The glory is departed from Ifrael ! What
can be . done now ? But I faw they were to
be raifed in the Lord's time., as an army to
fight his battles againil the, uncircumcifed

m

JOHN GRIFFITH. loj

in heart and ears ; and that the vidlory
over that fpirit was to be obtained through
fafferings. Thus 1 have given a fhort hint
of the afflicflhig view I had of the ftate of
our fociety in the city of London; which
place I ihall leave for the prefent; as I
ihall, in the courfe of this journal, have
occafion, divers times, to make fome far-
ther obfervations thereon, which may tend
to explain the above.

I had an ancient mother in Radnorfhire,
South Wales, whom I had not feen for
about twenty- two years. I therefore pur-
pofed taking meetings in my wsy thither,
and alfo in my return to London yearly-
meeting. I fet out in order to be at
Reading quarterly-meeting the i6th of
the 2d month, which I attended to good
fatisfaftion. After this meeting I took
the following in my way, viz. Henley,
Warborough, Witneyj Gloucefter, and Rofs.
The Lord being my gracious helper, either
to do or fuffer, in which I endeavoured to
be faithful, according to the difcovery I
received of the divine will. The 26th
I got to my mother's houfe, having fent a
meflenger a little before, left a fudden fur-
prife, although arifing from much joy,
might prove too great a fhock for my dear
ancient mother to bear without fome in-
conveniency. I fuppofe our meeting might
fomewhat refeipble that of Jacob and his
fon Jofeph's, It doubtlefs afforded much

comfort

io6 The JOURNAL of

comfort to my worthy mother, Ihe being
a valuable religious woman, not only to
fee me again, but alfo that I was come upon
a lervice fhe fo greatly loved and valued*
My honoured father had then been dead
about three years. I had a brother and
fider then living with my mother, and
another fiiRer married, who lived not far
from her. I ftaid thereabouts fomewhat
more than two weeks ; in which time I
had divers very large, and fome very open
precious meetings; many of other focieties
flocking to them, who feemed much reach-
ed by the teflimony of truth. But alas !
I found things very low there, as to friends,
which was caufe of forrow to my mind.
Wrong things creeping in, and very few
if any, who had judgment and courage
enough to deal plainly with diforderly
walkers. I was at their monthly meet-
ing, and endeavoured to flir them up to a
more diligent and zealous exercife of whole-
fome difcipline ; but they appeared weak.
On 2d day, the i6th of the 3d month,
I took leave of my dear mother, brother, and
fifters, and fet out in order to be at the
yearly-meeting in London, Edward Jones
bearing me company. I took the follow-
ing meetings in my way, viz. Ammelly,
Leominfler, a quarterly held at Broomfgrove,
Worcefter, Evefliam, Shipfton ; on firlt-day
had two meetings, at Lonycompton in the
niorning and Ghippingngrcon in the after-
noon ;

JOHN GRIFFITH, 107

Boon ; then to High Wickham, Chefham,
and Uxbridge. I had divers open fatisfac-
tOYj meetings, and fome very tx^ying an4
afflidting. The Lord was pleafed to be my
help and fupport, to whom be humble
thankfgivings for his gracious condelcen-
lion to the low eftate of his poor fervants.

I got to London on the yth day of the
week, and the day following attended Grace-
church- ftreet and Devonfliire-Houfe meet-
ings ; but I had very little opennefs there-
in. My fpirit was very .low and greatly
depreffed, fo that I feemed to myfelf near
fainting under the weight of my burden,
which was very great. On 2d day the
yearly-meeting began. The firft was a
meeting of miniders and elders in the morn-
ing. Many brethren were met from divert
parts of the nation. Amongft whom, I
looked upon myfelf as a mere child, hav-
ing much fear and reafoning in my niind
left I fliould difconour the great mafter's
caufe, and difcover my great weaknefs (as
the fame appeared in my own view) to
thofe pillars in the church and experien-
ced fervants in the Lord's work. But he in
great mercy condeicended to my very low
jeftate, and regarded m^y humble breathings,
giving me the w^ord of life to preach with
demonftration that day, which much opened
my way in the minds of friends, and was
of conhderable advantage to me in my fu-
tpxe fervice; for very much depends on our

P having

fo8 The JOURNAL of

having good place in the hearts of the faith^
fill, and that cannot well be until they know
lis. Chriftian prudence teacheth not to
lay hands fuddenly on any; therefore fuch
mud fee and feel the fpirits one of another,
in fome degree, before they can unite. Was
there not great care and caution in this re-
fpedl, grois hypocrify, by putting on the out-
ward appearance, might be encouraged,
which w^ould be a very grievous wound to
God's caufe ? Many friends after this meet-
ing fliewcvl afFe(5tionate regard to me; but
none more than that fubftantial minifter of
the gofpel Samuel Bownas. It had a pro-
per eftecl upon my mind, to ftrengthen it,
and raife humble acknowledgements to the
Lord for his mercy herein. It being my
fervent prayer, that whatever I might go
through on account of the unfaithful, my
fervice and labours might be acceptable to
the famts, and that 1 might be favoured
with a fenfe of the unity and help of their
fpirits accompanying me therein. I at-
tended the yearly-meeting conftantly, both
the meetings for worfhip and difcipline
as they fell in courfe. The power and
virtue of truth was near, to the flrengthen-
ing and comforting our fpirits in a good
degree: but I have known a much fuller
enjoyment and overfliadowing thereof, even
wlien all the hills and mountains have been
melted as it were, before him who is
glorious ia holinefs, and fearful in praile,

working

JOHN GRIFFITH. 109

working wonders for the help and prefer-
vation of his people. O then we could ex-
perhnentally fay, the Lord of awful majefty
prefideth amongll us, being a fpirit of
judgment to them that fit in judgment, and
all we ftand in need of; even as a place of
broad rivers and llreams, where nothing
of man's invention could obtain any place !
Thefe were times of rejoicing in the pre-
fence of the Lord, and drinking freely df
the wine and milk, without money and
witiiout price. O how hath my foul faid,
it is good to be here! Having a defire, with
Peter, to tabernacle there; much dreading
to defcend into this vale of tears again,
where I mud ftruggle with my many in-
firmities, which I did not then much feel :
but I do not inftance this with defign to
jaftify thofe anxious fears and taking
thought for the time to come; but rather
as a mark of my great weaknefs and want
of growth in the molt precious faith, which
is the faints vicfhory, whereby, as we grow
therein^ ftrength and patience is received,
to endure hardnefs as good fbldiers of Jefus
Ghrift; not viewing with much anxious
fear thefe light affli6lions, which are but
for a moment ; feeing, in due time, if we
are properly exercifed thereby, they will
w^ork for \\s a far more exceeding' and eter-
nal weight of glory.

On the fixth-day of the next week after
the yearly-meeting, I fet out in' order to

be

no The JdUilNxlL of

be at the three eaftern yearly-meetings, being
accompanied by my friends John Hunt and
his wife, and Chriftopher Wilfon who was
to be my companion. We lodged that
night at E» eritwood ; next morning early
we pafTed on to Chelmsford, (the weather
being extremely hot,) and breakfailed at my
dear friend Frances Wyatt's, who after-
wards^ through the kind providence of
God, became my truly affedionate wife.
Divers friends went forward towards Col-
chefter, but my companion and I ftaid at
Chelmsford meetings on firil-day. The
weather continuing very hot, I think then
feqiial in heat to our weather in America,
there arofe a ftorm bf thunder and rain in
the time of the meeting : one clap of thun-
der, whilft 1 was upon my feet, io terrified
friends as to take awav their attention for
the prefent, and I expelled to have been
obliged to fit down ; but waiting a fhort
time, friends recovered, and 1 went on. A
boy was killed thereby, as he was playing
near Springfield fteeple-houfe, about a mile
from Chelmsford, We went after meeting
to Kelvedon, and ne^^t uioraing were ac^
companied by feveral friends towards Col-
cheiler; but 1 was fo extremely ill of a
fever, that I was obliged to alight at Lexr
ton,^' about a mile from the fliid place. We
piounted our horfes again after 1 had re-
covered a little; but before we had pro-
ceeded on the way above half a mUe^ tiiere

fame

JOHN GRII^FITH. in

came on fuch terrible thunder, as is feldom
known in this part of the world. The
lightning appeared to glide in llrQ.ams of
fire on the furfiice of the earth a confidera-
ble way, and there feemed, as I thouglitj
a ftrong fmell of fulphur. The thunder
frighted my mare to fuch a degree, that I
being poorly, could fcarcely fit her; but
through mercy I received no hurt. I con^
tinned ill at Colchefler, fo that I did not
attend many of the meetings. The yearly-
meeting ended there on fourth- day. On the
fixth-day following^ I was i'o recovered as
to ride in a chaife to Maningcree, and had
a meeting there the fame day. On feventh-
day w^e went through IplWich to Wood-
bridge, in order to attend the yearly and
quarterly meetings there for the county of
Suffolk. We were at their meethig on
firft-day ; on fecond-day was held their
liieeting for difcipline, wherein the power
and virtue of truth feemed to me low and
deprefTed ; and, although 1 v/as fully per-
fuaded there were divers living, concerned
members therein^ who had the caufe of
truth at heart, yet they appeared alfo de-
prefTed. The chief reafon whereof 1 then ap-
prehended and have more clearly feen fince,
was giving too- much place to a.few bufy
forward members, in w^hom man's will and
wifdom was too much exalted, who afTumed
the rule and government of that meeting;
which they were too much indulged in

by

ri2 The JOURNAL of

by the cowardice of thofe whofe proper
bufinefs it was to work for God; that by
his bleffing and alTiilance, they might exalt
the weight and authority of truth over
fuch fpirits. For the dominion and ma-
jefty of truth in a meeting foon foils and
overcomes them, as it is abode in by the
heirs thereof; but if they are Hack and
negligent in poffelling their right, vifur-
pers will often take"" it from them, in this
ieiik. So that fuch who are called to work
for God in his church, by holding back more
than is meet, not only bring poverty and
leannefs upon their own foiils thereby, but
alfo open a door for the fpirit of anvi-
chrift to enter in. I have often feen, tiiat
when the wife woman negleds to build tL.
houfe, the foolifli woman, by prccendii*g
to build, hath pulled it down wall her
own hands: this hath been no fmail cauie
of the wafte and defolation in fome places.
I have had much labour with that bufy
acflive forward fpirit fmce, both in meet-
ings and in private plain-dealing, as alfo
in ftirring up and encouraging the right
minded to (land their ground; which 1 hope
hath not been altogether without fome good
effedl. I could not well be eafy to proceed
without making the above remarks, as a
caution to fuch into whofe hands this may
come, lince it is no finall thing to be
guilty of negligence in the work of God,
nor to engage therein without a proper qua-
lifications

JOHN GRIFFITH. 115

lification. Meetings for worfhip were held
on t:\irvl and fourth days, wherein we were
fa.voured with a good degree of that hea-
venly virtue, in which there is renewal of
ftrength and comfortable fellowfiiip one
with another. From thence we proceeded
tovv^ards Norwich, taking Brandifton and
J.aylton meetings in our way; where true

■igion appeared to be mournfully lov/.

Norwich we were favoured with.con-

:jrable opennefs and fatisfadlion in their

cetings on iirft-day. The quarterly, and
^ early mf^edngs for the county of Norfolk
were Jield on fecond, third, and fourth
d.iys. Divine goodnefs was felt afiiiling m
clofc exercife and labour, for the help and
recovery of a declined people; and heavenly
fellowfhiip Iweetiy enjoyed with thofe who
preferred the profpcrity of the city of God
to their chlefeft joy. On fifth day we had
a meeting at Wymondham, wherein we
were opeiicd in gofpei iervice, to our com-
fort and relief in k good degree. Next day
we had a meeting at Taiborough, which
was a very painful trying time; mv duty
therein was to fet an example of filence.
Here my agreeable companion and I parted.
He had been wich me ever fince I left
London, i was now alone, as to any con-
ftant companion, and on the firlt-day fol-
lowing attended Norwich meeting to pretty
good latisfa6lion ; and had . the following
meetings appointed in my way to Lynn

viz.

114 The JOURNAL of

VIZ. Lammas, North Walfam, Holt, and
Wells; in nioit of which I had clofe
laborious fervice: being led, as v/as often
my lot, to ftir up and awaken (if pof-
fible) carelefs lukewarm profefTors. Our
friend Edmund Peckover accompanied me
to Lynn, where we had two meetings on
firft day; they proved very painful and
laborious: I had very little opennefs as to
miniftry. From thence we went to Wif^
beach, which was a fmall meeting, and
things appeared very low. The next meet-
ing we had was at Gedney, things being alfb
very low. From thence we went to Spald-
ing, and had a heavy la-borious meeting:
Jiere my friend Edmund Peckover left me
•and returned home. The fame day was a
confiderable ecUpfe of the fun. The next
meeting I had was at Broughton, which
was very painful and affli(5ling. The great
lofs fome in that part of LincolniTiire
(through which I paflTed) have fuftained," by
forfaking the fountain of living water and
the commonwealth of our Ifrael, that they
might embrace this prefent world, Demas-
like, was forrov/fully felt: although fome
of them might retain the outward form,
yet having loft the dew of their youth, they
were become dry and formal: by whofe
means, and the undue liberties indulged in
too many of the youth, a thick darknefs
was raifed that might be felt; which did^
in a forrowful degree, tend to eclipfe the

beauty

jonu Griffith:, u^

beauty of our Si on. I travelled from thence
through Newark, and a confiderable way
by the pleafant river Trent, to Nottingham.
Being firil-day, I was at the meetings there
both fore and afternoon* Truth greatly
favoured in opening dodlrine and counfel
in the morning; the afternoon not quitd
fo open, but in a good degree to fiitisfaction*
From thence to Oxon meeting, which was
fmall yet open. From thence to Manf^
field, and had a painful trying meeting
there. The next was at Cheilerfield^ where
the meeting was but fmall, yet truth livingly
favoured, opening counfel tor our help and
Encouragement in the way of well doing.
^Notice being previouily given, I had a large
meeting at Matlock on firft-day. There
were a few friends, and many others at this
meeting, which proved heavy and laborious
for fome time; yet divine goodnefs afforded
ability to work through, and the holy
power of God was in a good degree exalted;
praifes to his name for ever! The next
meeting I had was at Hanfworthwood-
Houfe on the borders of Yorkihi; e. Ihere
were but few friends, and of thofe few,
moft of them feemed to depend too mach,
upon the labour of the min-flers, as is
forrowfully the cafe in too many other
places. I had nothing to adminiiler unto
them but an exam.ple of filence, that ap^
fearing beil adapted to their dates ; for
tmlefs the great benefit thereof is experien*

ii6 The JOURNAL oi

ced, there can be no real advancement in
true religion. I went from thence to Shef-
field, which was a large meeting, and the
do6lrine of truth was largely and livingly
opened therein; I believe to general fatis-
faclion, and to the comfort of the upright-
hearted. From thence I went to Highflats,
and was at their meeting on firft-day,
Tv^hich vv^is very large; being compofed of
plain country friends. The Lord was plea-
fed to fevour us with a precious oppor-
tunity together, in the comfortable enjoy-
ment of his love flied abroad; under which
holy influence, the doctrine of truth was
largely opened; the glorious powerful name
of the Lord was magnified, and his hum-
ble, dependant children were encouraged
to ferve him with a perfe6l heart and with
a willing mind. The next meeting I had
was at Brighoufe, which was to pretty good
fatis faction ; truth owning and comforting
our fpirits therein. Next day I had a very
painful afflicT:ing meeting at Halifax, hav-
ing reafon to fear but few of the members
were rightly acquainted with the quickening
virtue of true religion in themfelves :
when this is the forrowful cafe, it makes
heavy work for painful travellers. My la-
bour amonglt them was in a clofe roufing
way, but it did not appear to have much
impreffion. From thence to Gilderfome,
where I had a pretty open comfortable
meeting; and next day one at Leeds to

fatisfadion.

JOHN GRIFFITH. 117

fatlsfaclion. This being a large meetings
I ftaid over firft-day, and am purfuaded
there was a fenfible weighty body of
friends belonging thereunto ; yet there
feemed to me a much larger, as to num-
ber, who contented themfelves in the pro-
feffion of truth, and in hearing the report
of others concerning the heavenly coun-
try. The indifference of thefe, together
with their eagernefs after words, appeared
to me a caufe of painful anxiety of fpirit
in that meeting, which I liad to faffer
under both morning and afternoon. Here
my friends John Hunt and his wife from
London met me, with intent to accom-
pany me to fome meetings in that county,
of which I was glad, being alone, often
low and much difcouraged in mind, in a
deep feeling of mine own weaknefs ; as alfo
having to wade from place to place, in a
painful fenfe of a greatly declined people
whom I was concerned to labour amongft ;
fo that, had not divine goodnefs at times
m.ade me fenfible his everlafting arm was
underneath, to fupport my afflicted foul
in various probations, I had certainly faint-
ed. But, bleffed be his holy name forever,.
he w^as often gracioufly pleafed to open a
way for me to hold on, when I couid fee
none, leading me by the hand like a tender
merciful fathef, one flcp after another;
and giving me more place in the love and
. regard of his people than I looked for, or

couldj

xi8 The JOURNAI of

could, as I thought, reafonably expect, t
was many times greatly abaled in mine own
fight; ready to fay, to what good purpofe.
do i vifir the churches? for 1 icem to move
in an untrodden path, as under the weight
of the hills and mountains of exalted nn-
fruitiulneis 5 and often, as it were, groping
in the chambers of death, with fuch con-
ftant afiiidling views, that I was ready to
fay With the prophet, *' 1 am a man of un-
*^ clean lips, and I dwell amongil a people of
*' unclean lips;" but the live coal from the
holy altar, loon removes all that tincSure
or feeming defilement^ which doth not
proceed from our own fins and mifcarriages,
but trom thofe of others. Thou deep wader
for the good of fouls, this is wrote prin-
cipally for thy ^ fake, that thou mayft fee
others have gone the fame way before thee,
and be encoiiragcd fo as not to fink under
tliy burden* i found in the Lord's time
(as thou wilt, if thou patiently holds on
thy way) that tribulation v/orketh patience,
and patience experience, and experience
hope. The Lorcl gave me thereby clearly
to fee, I mull thus feel the wounds, bruifes^
^nd putrifying fores of the fons and daugh-
ters of Sion, or 1 could not fpeak to their
ftates and conditions feelingly and effec-
tually for their help and recovery. Our
Lord and Saviour Jefus Chrifi: was touched
with a feeling of our infirmities. He bore
the weight and painful fer^fe of the fins

of

JOHN GRIFFITH. IT9

of the whole world, tafling death for every
man; whereby he reached forth a merci-*
ful hand of help and lalvation for the re-
covery of all, fufficient for all who be*
lieve in hiin and obey him; and his faith-
ful meifengers mull know, in degree, a
drinking of the fame cup, and being bap-
tized with the fame baptifm he was bap-
tized with, not only on their own accounts,
but alfo on the account of others. He
ftill fuifers by his fpirit, as under the
weight and opprefTion of (in and iniquity,
in the hearts of the children of men; fo
that all thofe who are one in fpirit with
him, muft in meafure feel his fufferings,
and fympathize with him therein; travel-
ling in pain, that Chrift may be formed in
the hearts of mankind, ruling in his king-
dom on earth, as he rules in heaven.
But thefe things are too myflerious for the
wife and prudent of this world to under-
ftand, being only revealed to thofe who
^re indeed born of God.

We (laid at Leeds until fifth-day, there
being a burial, attended by a large numbei?
of friends and others. Truth opened our way
in the miniftry to good fatisfaftion. Next
day we had a fmall meeting at Knaref-
borough, where we found things very low.
From thence we went to Thirfk) and on
firll-day had a precious open meeting there,
in which the teilimony of truth was greatly
€3U\lted| and tjie upright-hearted Iweetly

comforted

120 The journal of

comforted. The praife of all belongs to
the giver of every good and perfect gift.
Next day we went to vifit our ancient
honourable friend John Richardfon, at his
houfe near Hutton in the Hole. He had
fcarcely fight enough to diftinguifti us one
from the other. We we-re received and
entertained by him with true love and bro-
therly affedlion. He was much at liberty
in his fpirit, and very free in difcourfe
about religious things, in which his life and
great delight appeared to be. He fliewed
us (in manufcript) a journal of his life
and travels in the fervice of the gofpel,
fince publifhed, wherein are many very
ufefvil obfervations and remarkable occur-
rences, which I hope will be of great fer-
vice in the world. On third-day we had
a meeting at Hutton, wherein we were fa-
voured with fome degree of opennefs; yet
truth did not raife to any confiderable de-
gree of dominion: but all is beft as the
Lord is pleafed to order, for from him alone
proceed the ifTues of life. On fourth-
day morning we took leave of our faid
worthy friend in much afFedtion, and had
a fmall meeting at Bilfdale: things were
low as to the life of religion in that
meeting ; after which I parted with my
friends John Hunt and his wife. John
Scot of Leeds continued with me, who
was an honeft labourer for the arifing of
life in meetings, and I thought of conli-

derable

JOHN GRIFFITH. 121

derable help to me. The next meeting, we
had was at North Allerton ; which was ra-
ther low and heavy to wade through. We
went from thence to Darlington in the
county of Durham. I had clofe painful
labour there; earthly-mindednefs in pro-
felfors is often the caufe of fuch hard
work, as it obltrucls the current of life,
both in themfelves and alfo frequently in
our religious meetings, like the Philiitines
flopping up the wells which the true, feed
hath opened in the hearts of believers ;
fo that many times, inftead of their having
to iing, Spring up, O well, and Vv^e will fing
unto the€l there is mourning and painful
labour in fympathy therewith, to have them
opened again, that the flock of Ghrift's fold
may all be watered with the refrefliing
ftreams of that river which iflows from the
prefence of God. The next meeting I
went to was Raby, being on a firfl-day ; it
was a large heavenly meeting, truth having
great dominion, and friends were fweetlj
comforted together. At Bifliop Auckland,
the Lord favoured v/ith matter and utter-
ance to a coniiderable degree of eafe and
fiitisfaftion. From thence I went to the
city of Durham, and had a hard painful
meeting in lilence; alfo at Newcaftie we
had a clofe, trying, laborious meeting;
occafioned, as I apprehended, by undue
liberties in thinking and ading, which had
I'aifed darknefs to be felt in that meet-
ing.

!2i The J O U R K A L of

ing. We had an open comfortable meeting
the next day at Shields. We went to
Sunderland, and attended their meetings oii
firft-day; that in the morning was very-
open and fatisfaclory, the tellimoiiy of
truth going forth freely to the feveral ftates
of thofe prefent, who were much affeded
therewith. In the afternoon it was a heavy
affli (Sling meeting ; but little felt of that
which crowned the meeting in the morn-
ing. We often find afternoon meetings are
the mod heavy and painful, occalioned, no
doubt (in part at lead) by anfwering the
cravings of nature to the full; whereas they
Ihould be denied a full gratification, as
little fullenance w^ould, for that lliorc fpace
of time, anfwer much better, and be no
injury to the conftitution. If any think this
hint, by way of caution, impertinent, there
is reafon to doubt, that they are yet too
much ftrangers to the nature of true wor-
ihip and the many impediments in the way
of its due performance; what I have above-
mentioned is none of the leaft. I was
quite ftiut np as to miniftry in the after-
noon. Here I met my valuable friends
Jonathan and Margaret Raine of Trawden
m Lancalhire, being the firft time 1 faw
them; concerning whom, more hereafter.
On fecond-day we had another meeting in
the city of Durham, wherein the Lord was
gracioufly pleafed to exalt his glorious and
-powerful name over all diforderly and cor-
rupt

JOHN GRIFFITH. 123

rupt libertine fpirits ; there being fome
fuch in the meeting, which was evident to
me, from the main fcope of the teftimony
I had to deUver amongft them. It was with
remarkable authority and fharpnefs agai.ift
fuch, who having departed from the divine
light, wherewith all mankind are enlight-
ened, choofing rather to be in darknefs,
were fo loll in a maze of error, as even
to call in queftion the truths of the Chrif-
tian religion. I was afterwards informed
that there Vv'ere fome fuch in that meeting
■who had imbibed the dark and wicked
principle of deifm, or free-thinking, fo cal-^
led; but I had no outward information
Goneerning the ftate of any there before the
meeting, v/hich I always carefully fhunned.
The next meeting I had was ac Stockton,
to pretty good fatisfadlion, as truth opened
my way to difcharge the fervice required |,
yet the meeting was fmall, and things ap-
peared low, as to the life of religion. I
went from thence to Yarum in Yorkihire ;
had a meeting there, and at Yatten, and
Moorfiiam, to a.^.ood degree of fatisfadlion.
The next met^ting I had was at Caftleton,
The two laft ^ named- were on the Moors,
amongft a very j>lain people, v/ho appeared
to be in a low llation of^ life, but I found
the favour and virtue of truth amongft them,
efpecially at the latter; to which that fnb-
flantial miniiler of the gofpel Luke Cock,
did in his life-time belong; the remeiri-

II branc^

124 The JOURNAL of

braiice of whom, although I never perfon-
nally knew him, was very freih and living-
ly before me in that meeting, as if his fpirit
had been prefent ; I could, as I thought,
perceive the good effecls of that worthy
mian's Chriilian labours amongft thofe peo-
ple; and a precious meeting the Lord
favoured us with together: to whom, for
the multitude of his mercies beftowed upon
"us, poor unworthy helplefs creatures, be
humble thankfgiving and praife, now and
for evermore. Whitby was the next meet-
ing I attended, being on firft-day, where
I had very clofe laborious work. An earth-
ly lofty fpirit had taken too much place in
lome of the profeifors ; the tendency where-
of is, by darkening the underftanding, and
blinding the judgment, to account various
weighty branches of our Chriilian teftimony
fmall trifling things. Here the flefh, |:hat
warreth againft the fpirit, having the af-
cendency, its language is quite oppofite
thereunto. The flefli iaith, there is little in
drefs ; religion doth not confifl in apparel ;
there is little in language ; there is little in
paying tythes &c. to the prlefls; there is
little in carrying guns in our fliips, to de-
fend ourfelves in cafe we are attacked by
an enemy. To which, I think, it may be
fafely added, there is little or nothing in
people, who plead as above hinted, pretend-
ing to be of our fociety ; for if they can
eahly let fall the before-mentioned branches

of

JOHN GRiFFIFH, 125

of our Chriftian teftimony, I am fully per-
fuaded, they will maintain the others no
longer than they apprehend it will fuit
witii their temporal intereft. I have often
wondered why fuch continue to profefs
with us at all. They are not really of uiS
who are not concerned to maintain tiioie
principles and tellimonies the I-ord hath
given us to bear. I was, through mercv,
enabled to difcharge the lervice required of
me, and went from thence to Scarborough,
where the Lord, in gracious condefcenfion,
was pleafed to open dodlrine and couniel
for their help ; who appeared to me moltly
low and weak, as to a real gruwdi in true
religion. From thence I went to Picker-
ing, where the Lord gave us a very precious
opportunity together, in the comfortable
enjoyment of his power and refrefhii-g
prelence; t5 the exaltation and renown of
his great name, who is worthy for ever.
Next day I had a meeting at Malton, being
a clofe fearching time; truth leemed at a
low ebb there. The next meeting at
Cranfick was very fmall, but the Lord
was pleafed to own and comfort us toge-
ther, affording counfel for their help and
encouragement. I went from thence to
Bridlington, and was at their meeting on
firft-day ; it was fmall, and things very low
amongft them, as to the life of religion.
Oh how greatly is that, and many other
meetings decliued, both a^ to number and

a hvely

126 Thl journal or

a lively experience of true religion: fome
friends informed me, as I remember, that
they knew the time, when fourteen or fif-
teen miniftering friends belonged to that
m:eting; and now perliaps, not a much
greater number of members of all forts,
belong to iti Once there was a wonderful
time of gathering into the vineyard of
Chrift; but fince, with forrow and lamen-
tation it may be faid, there has been a lofing,
fcattering, and dwindling away in many
places ; the principal occafion v/hereof
feems to have been^ ail inordinate love for
tranfitory enjoyments, lawful in themfelves
and places, but not to have the chief polP-
felTion of the mind. When that becomes
the forrowful ftate of any, they cannot
favour the things that be of God, but the
things which be of men ; and are of confe-^
quence deprived of that all-iuificient help,
fo to live and walk, as to anfwer the wit-
nefs of God in others; to train up their chil-
dren in the nurture and admonition of the
Lord ; and to maintain the teflimonies of
truth with a convincing ftrength and efficacy.
80 that although the form is. retained in a
confiderable degree by fuch, and they m.ay
alio be fortified with arguments, to main-
tain the confiftency of our profeflion with
the prhnitive plan laid down in holy wnt^
yet, ^Yanting the fait of tlie kingdom in
themfelves, all their prctenfions without it
■will prove nothing; yea, worfe than no-
thing,

JOHN GRIFFITH. 127

thing; feeing, by how much more they
have had the opportunity of knowing more
than others, by fo much their condemnation
will be greater. Next day we had a (mall
meeting at Hornfey, and from thence went
to Ouflwick, and had a large meeting,
wherein truth favoured in opening dodlrine
largely, and to a confiderable degree of
fatisfaclion. The next meeting we had
was at Hull, which was indeed a very pain-
ful exercifing time of filence, in a mournful
fenfe of great declenfion. We find it re-
corded in the holy fcriptures, that we muft
enter the kingdom of heaven through many
tribulations. It is indeed a very wonderful
mercy, that fuch unworthy creatures as we
are ihould be fo highly favoured,' as to
be admitted thereinto on any terms. I have
confidered, that our afflidions in this day,
both in the rnanner and caufe, differ much
from the trials of our worthy predeceifors.
Their bodies were, frequently imprifoned,
and grofsb/ abufed by people of different
religious perfaafion^s; but our fpirits, when
engaged in the work of the gofpel, are often
imprifoned, depreffed, and greatly afflidledj
by means of the great unfalthfulnefs of
many under the fame profeihon with our-
felves; being at times, on account of fuch,
fo clofed up in a painful fenfe of death and
darknefs^ as to be fomewhat like the pro-
phet of old, quite fhut up and dumb with
filence. This may he occafioned by fuch,

wlip

123 The JOURNAL on

who are fo far alienated from the fenfible
reaches of that meafure of grace in their
own minds, as not to be opened thereby to
receive the word preached to advantage ;
(for the word goeth not forth in vain; but
will accomplifh that for which it is fent;)
antl it may alio be neceHary, on account of
thofe who have often been comfortably re-
freflied by fitting under a living miniftry,
yet negle6ling their own duty in a fpiritual
labour for heavenly bread, look too
m.uch for food from the labour of others :
which unjuftifiable depend an ce and expec-
tation, is often difappointed and mortilied.
The main de(iga of gofpel miniftry, is to
turn the children of men to the grace of
God in themfelves, which will teach them
to work oat their ov/n falvation, and dili-
gently to feek the Lord for themfelves, in
whom, their ftrength being renewed, their-
fpirits. would unite, and greatly help and
relieve the minilters in their gofpel-laboars.
From Hull I went to North Cave, where
I had an open comfortable meeting. Thence
to Hovvden, where the meeting was fmall
and things very low; it was held in iilence.
I went next to Selby, and attended their
meetings on firiVday. I had ibme llrengrh
and o-pennefs for fervice in the morning; in
the afternoon I had to lit in Iilence ; I could
find but very little of the life of religion there.
Next day I had an open comfortable meeting
at Rawcliif; thence at Pontefract, where
c ' things

JOHN GRIFFITH. 129

things were low and painful. Tlie next meet-
ing was a fmall one at Wakefield, wherein I
was quite clofed up in filence; the ftate of
tlie meeting, as I apprehended, requiring
it. I went from thence to Leeds, and
next day to the houfe of my eileemed
friend William Hird, intending for Brad-
ford monthly meeting, which was held on
fixth-day, wherein I had thorough fervice,
and the bleiled truth had great dominion,
to the joy and comfort of many hearts, I
returned to Leeds, and attended their meet-
ings on firft-day. They were low and
rather painful; my fervice therein was in
a clofe fearching way ; but thofe who are
at eafe in Zion like fmooth things beft, and
are almoft ready to fay now, as fome did
formerly to the feers, fee not, and to the
prophets, prophefy unto us fmooth things.
I went from Leeds to the quarterly- meet-
ing at York, wherein I had confiderable
opennefs in fervice; yet my fpirit was in-
wardly and fecretly pained moil of the
time; the caufe whereof, as I apprehended,
was the numbnefs and earthly-mindednefs
of many members of that very large alfem-
bly; in which there were, notwithftand-
ing, a wife lively fubftantial body of friends ;
which, by account, hath continued in a fuc-
ceffion from the early times of our fociety.
When this meeting was over, I fet out,
in company with feveral friends in their
way home, in order to vifit fome meetings

in

130 TiTE JOURNAL OF

in the Dales, on my way to Kendal quar-
terly-meeting; John Scott being alfo with
me. The firft meeting we had was at Bane-
bridge in Wenfley Dale, which was large,
behig on a firft-day. It was a very clofe
trying laborious meeting. I had very little
to fay by way of miniftry, but fuffered deep-
ly in fpirit, under a forrowful ieiiih of car-
lialily prevailing. Next day I had a very
comfortable reviving meeting amongft a
few plain friends in Grifdale. After which
I went home with that plain faithful minif-
ter of the gofpel Alice Thiftlethwaite, who
had borne me company from York, to her
houfe in Dent Dale, where we had a meet-
ing nexc day, which I hope was in a good
degree ferviceable, although things were
but low. After this we went to the
houfe of that worthy elder and minifter of
the gofpel James Wilfon, near Brigflats,
where, next day, the Lord was pleaied to
favour us with a powerful glorious meet^
ing; fo that we could thankfully witnefs
truth was over all. Such thorovigh open
meetings, but feldom fall to our lot in this
declined flate of things. Yet the Lord is
all-fufficient for the help and fupport of
his faithful fervants, in all times and dif-
penfations of his providence to mankind;
fo that we not only can fay, fufficient to
the day is the evil thereof; but alfo, fuf-
j&cient to the day is the ftrength and wif-
dom afforded for our affiftance in the

Lord's

JOHN GRIFFITH. 131

Lord's work. Next day I went to Ken-
dal, being accompanied by the before-
mentioned worthy friend, who entertained
me on the road with divers very pleafing
accounts concerning the fpreading of truth
in thoie parts, and the wonderful convince-
ments thereabouts, by that memorable fer-
vant of the Lord George Fox, which the
faid friend had heard related by eye-wit-
nefles, who were themfelves convinced at
that time; this made the journey exceed-
ing pleafant to me, nothing difagreeable
therein, but its being too foon over, as that
put an end to this delightful converfation.

There appeared to me a valuable body of
friends in and about Kendal yet left, al-
though divers in that town had been remo-
ved by death but a little time before; the
lofs of whom was much lamented by the
furvivors, as they had been ufeful mem-
bers in their day. It alfo appeared that
good order was well maintained, and that
excellent difcipline eftabliilied amongft us
in the wifdom of truth, feemed to be as
duly put in pra6tice, as in moil places
I have obferved amongft friends ; yet my
way was much clofed up in fufFering, du-
ring the quarterly-meeting: I ftaid their
meetings on firft-day, and was largely open-
ed in the morning, truth having great do-
minion ; but in the afternoon was Ihut up
in filence. On third-day, being Winder-
mere general meeting, I wcAt to it; truth
i S greatlj'-

1^2 The JOURNAL of

greatly overfliadowed that large aflembly^
and the teftimony thereof was much exalted,
to the edification and fweet refrefhment of
the upright in heart, as well as deeply
affedling the minds of many, I hope to their
kiting advantage, who had. taken more
liberty than truth allows of. Next day I had
a fmall meeting at Grayrig, v/here things
were low. At Preilon the Lord was plealed
to favour us with an open comfortable
meeting, and truth's tefthnony was exalted.
After which I went to Kendal, and had a
very comfortable meeting amongft friends
there. From thence 1 went to Swarthmoor,
and was at their meeting on a firft-day, in
a meeting-houfe built near the hall, by
George Fox ; I could not difcover much,
lively fenfe of true religion there, it being
a time of painful fuffering filence. From
thence to the Flight meeting, which was
to pretty good fatisfacflion ; and thence to
Hawkfliead; the meeting there was low and
afflicting. My principal fervice was to give
an example of filence, which frequently
fell to my lot; the Lord favouring with
refignation to his divine will. Next day I
had a. fmall open fatisfadlory meeting at
Kefwick; and went to Ifel meeting; but had
nothing to deliver by way of teftimony,
being wholly fhut up. From thence to
Pardlhaw, which, I think, is the largeft
country meeting in England, and friends
there generally made a plain becoming ap»

pearance.

JOHN GRIFFITH. 13^

pearance, much refembling many meetings
in Pennfylvania, both for largenefs and other-
wife; the view whereof give me lingular
pleafure, and abundantly the more, a:& the
great mailer of our affemhlies was gracioudy
pleafed to honour and comfort us with his
living prefence, in which there is fulnefs of
joy : matter and utterance was given by him
to a difcharge of duty, m which there was
peace. I had an open fatisfac^ory meeting
in the evening, at my friend and old com-
panion Chriftopher Wilfon's. Next day I
had a meeting at Whitehaven. Thence to
Broughton, where I had a meeting. I en-
deavoured to lean upon the Lord alone, for
guidance in my fervice, and by him was
frequently much opened, in the ftates of
meetings and individuals prefent. The next
meeting was at Gockermouth, which was to
a good degree of fatisfadlion. Thence to
Allonby, where truth favoured with a good
degree of opennefs and peace. From thence
I went to Holme, a meeting remarkable for
having been, I fuppofe, more than fixty
years interrupted, and grievouily diilurbed
by a wicked unruly company of ranters*
It began in fome of the Pearfons, and when
they were removed, others fucceeded in
the fame fpirit. Some of them were at the
meeting when I was there. A woman of
the party fpoke feveral times in fuch ran-
cour, that I do not remember ever to have
taken notice of a voice fo much tindlured

with

134 The JOURNAL of

•with a dark diabolical fpirit ; but friends,
in the blelFed enjoyment of the powerful
truth, were quite over it and them, and I
believe, had therein been in a good degree
preserved ; as that meeting appeared to me
the livelieft of any thereabouts, having, as
I remember, five or fix public friends
belonging thereunto. The next meeting I
had w^as a fmall one at Bolton ; truth fa-
voured with a comfortable degree of open-
nefs therein. Thence I went to Wigton,
a. id attended both their meetings on firft-
day; it was an exceeding painful exertifing
time* My mouth was, as it were, clofed
up in mournful filence, yet not without
a pretty clear view and fenfe of the forrow-
ful ftates of thofe amongfl them who had
been the principal caufe of the death and
mifery which I felt; I faw what they were
doing in the dark, as it were, through the
hole in the wall. O ! wdiat a great fnare
bright genius, and extenfive natural abilities,
are to fome, when they are deluded by Satan
to truft in them, and prefuinptuoufly to
imagine, they are fufficient to anfwer every
purpofe for guidance and help not only in
temporal but fpiritual things, without fuper-
natural and divine aid immediately commu-
nicated. I have met with no ftate more at
enmity, nor in greater oppofition to the truth ;
nor from whofe fpirits more pain and difbefs
is to be met with, than from thefe worldly wife
and felf-fufficient people, who, no doubt,

would

JOHN GRIFFITH. 135

Would deride this obfervation, or any thing
elfe that afferts an inward fenfe of things.
They are very much out of the way of being
reached unto and helped; therefore they
are in great danger of being left alone,
that they may wonder and perifli, I fin-
cerely wifli, that the tender-hearted, both
youth and others, may be preferred from
the infedlion of that poifon of afps which
is under their tongues* Next day I had a
poor fmall meeting at Kirkbright, where
my bufinefs was to example them with
filence. From thence to Moor-houfe, where
I had fome opennefs and fatisfadlion, though
things were but low as to religion in that
meeting. The next meeting was in the
city of Carlifle ; my way was clofed up in
painful filence* I had a fmall open meet-
ing next day at Scotby; then went to a
meeting at Sowport, where there were but
few friends, and things very low amongft
them, as to the life and fenfible under-
ftanding of religion ; but there came in many^
of the neighbours, towards whom I found
great opennefs to declare the truth, and it
was a good meeting. I went next to
Kirklington, or the border meeting, being
on a firft-day. Friends having without
my knowledge, given notice to their neigh-
bours, and to divers people of account in
the world; it is. likely they expeded great
things from one come fo far to vifit them ;
and fome perhaps hoped to get credit by

that

136 The JOURNAL of

that day's work ; but we fee fomctimes, whea.
man appoints, the Lord difappoints; which
in the iffue, feems to have been the cafe
here; as I fat the meeting, (which was
very large) throughout in (ilence, to the
great mortification of many prefent, fbme
of whom, one might have expelled from
their appearance and pretenfions, to have
better underftood the nature of fpiritual
worlhip, than to have been fo anxious after
words or outward declarations ; it proved,
I think, as painful and exercifing a meet-
ing as ever I knew, to which the expec-
tations of friends and others did not a little
contribute. At the conclulion, I was fully
fatisfied I had difcharged the fervice requir-
ed of me that day, in an example of filence,
in which I had peace. I could perceive
great uneafinefs in many under our name,
at the filence of the meeting. It evidently
difcovers a mournful degeneracy, feeing
filent worlliip is fo dire6lly confiftent with
our Chriftian profeilion of the inward
teachings of the grace of God that brings
faivation, which hath appeared to all men,
jind teaches all thofe who diligently hearken
thereunto, that no time is more fuitable than
when affembled together, unitedly to wait for
this bleffed teaching, and thereby, a renewal
of our ftrength. How abfurd then is it, for
thofe who profefs this teaching and accefs
to the fountain of all good, to depart there-
from and gaze at the clouds, or depend on

the

JOHN GRIFFITH. ^37

the conduits and watcr-fpouts, as if it was
in their power to fill themfelves, and fo to
fupply all their wants? for althongh they
have at times, by the Lord of all, been
ufed as a means for our help and edification,
yet fuch means or helps are not fo effen-
tially neceflary to the fpi ritual worfliip pro-
feffed by us as a people, but that it may
be as effectually, and confequently as ac-
ceptably performed without them, in afi
awful folemn filence: than which nothing
can be more reaching and convincing to
thofe in whom the divme witnefs is re*
garded, and which may alio tend greatly to
raifethat in the minds of fuch where it is
depreffed. Some have remarked, that thofe
who have been convinced in the filence o£
our meetings, have generally flood their
ground in religion beft. The reafon is
plain, becaufe they have at the very firft laid
hold of and embraced the very fubftance o£
religion; whereas, the underftanding may
be, in a great meafure convinced by tefti-
mony, and the mind much tendered and
affedled with lively declarations of the truth ;
but all this goes off fooner, and will leave fuch
minds deflitute, unlefs they happily come to
be fixed under the teachings of the grace of
God in themfelves, and have to fit under
their own vine, and under their own fig-
tree, where none can xnake them afraid.
None need be afhamed of a folemn awful
filence before God, and in the fight of men ;

feekin^

138 Tht: journal of

feeking the Lord, v/ho will be found of
all fuch, and will, by his fecret invifible
power, vindicate that ibrt of filence in the
hearts of all who fufFer his- pure witnefs to
arife. All who reje6l the voice of this
holy witnefs, may juftly be difregarded by
God's people, fo as not to be difcouraged
by what they fay on that account. But on
the other hand, when any thing of this
nature is done in the form and by way of
imitation only, there being nothing fuper-
natural to fupport and defend the fame, it
muft neccffarily fall under contempt, and
like the fait that hath loft its favour^ will
be trodden under the feet of men. That
fcripture pafTage is very obfervable, where
ibme undertook to caft out devils in the
name of Jefus, whom Paul preached. It is
plain the evil fpirits knew, notwithftanding
their pretences, that they wanted power to
fubjedl them ; and therefore anfwered thefe
imitators and pretenders, *' Jefus I know,
" and Paul I know, but who are ye ? and
" the man in whom the evil fpirit was,
*' leaped upon them, and prevailed againft
** them, fo that they fled out of the houfe
" naked and wounded." I inftance this
paffage to ihew how inefEcacious imita-
tion is : they would do well to confider this,
who, upon a ferious examination, do not
find the Lord with them in their religious
performances ; for affuredly nothing can
ft and approved in his fight, nor maintain

a dig-

JOHN GRIFFITH. 139

a dignity worthy of him, 111 this ftate of
probation, but the real produdl of his own
fpirit in us; therefore, let all who profefs
fpiritual worlliip, greatly dread being found
in fenfelefs flupid filence, although it be in
the very fame form the people of God have
been, and are flill led into; knov/ing, that
the beft and mod confiftent form is alto-
gether contemptible without the heavenly
power. I felt and perceived divers of them
were much offended with me, for abiding
in that ftation the Lord placed me in that
day, which they did not altogether forbear
letting me know by words; neither did I
let them pafs without fome clofe remarks oa
their forrow^ful ftate and great blindnefs.
In about a week after, I received a long
letter upon the fubjedt, from one, fetting
forth amongft other things, how great a
myftery it was to him, that a perfon in my
ftation, travelling from one nation to ano-
ther, fhould difappoint people, friends and
others, by fuch unaccountable filence ; had
not I difcovered fufBcient caufe to believe
this friend was not then what he had been,
his letter would have been as. great a myftery
to me as my filence in that meeting was to
him. When I had perufed the faid letter,
I was moft eafy to let it pafs as not worth
anfwering. This was a time of very great
anxiety to my mind, and I have made the a-
hove remarks thereon, as I felt my mind open-
ed thereunto; forpo other realbn, than as a

T eautioa

140 The JOURNAL of

cantlon or warning to all profefTors of the
blelled truth into whofe hands this may-
come, that they may watch and pray con-
tinually ; left, by departing from the pure
leadings of truth in themfelves, they fall
into the like abfurdities ; manifefting to
others, that they are but mere pretenders
to fpiriuial worihip ; and alfo for encou-
ragement to painful travellers in the work
of the gofpel, whofe lot, in the courfe of
their fervice, may fall amongft fuch, to
•whom they may be as figns and gazing-
ftocks, bectiufe their time is not always
ready. What makes fuch examples more
necefTary in fome places, is the bufy for-
wardnefs of unfl^ilful miniflers amongft
themfelves, who may be too apt to feed
the people with a multitude of words; per-
haps frequently recommending filence in
words, but not fufficiently by example.
I have feen it much my place, efpecially
at home, to fhew friends by my example,
the benefit and neceftity of ifilence, and, as
it were, to lead them into it. And. as may
be feen by this account, I many times
found it my duty to fit meetings appointed
for me in filence; (being at times greatly dif-
trelled in a ienie of the ftates of the people,)
like a fign unto them, of what they ought
to be more in the pra(5lice of. This indeed
was no eafy talk to flefti, as the expeclation of
people was greatly towards me, being come
from far to vifit them;.v jct there was no

remedy

JOHN GRIFFITH, 141

remedy but patience and refignation to
the divine, will, without whole affiilance,
I knew it was in vain to attempt any-
thing by w^ay of miniftry. My way of
travelling as above hinted, often filent,
was looked upon tlien by many, as a
ftrange and unufual thing; but fome
others hav^e been led pretty much in the
fame track; however, I had moftly great
peace, and inward llrength to ftand my
ground therein, as all will w4io follow the
Lord whitherfoever he fhall be pleafed to
lead them.

I had a meeting on third- day at the houfe
of Cuthbert Wigham in Northumber-
land, w^hich was a fweet refrefliing time,
and tended much to fire ng then and revive
my drooping fpirit. Next day I had a
pretty open ferviceable meeting at Allondale.
From thence to Alftonmoor, where the
Lord was pleafed to favour me with a tho-
rough roufing opportunity, and God's
everlafting truth was exalted. The next
meeting I had v/as at Penrith, where things
appeared to me but low. i went from thence
to Coldbeck, and was at their meeting on
firft-day. It was a very hard diftreffing
time. There I felt, as I thought, fome
of thofe hard dark fpirits, which had occar-
fioned great anxiety at fundry places in that
county; who might, as I apprehended,, be
compared to the bulls of Balhan that com-
paffed David about. ' It is likely they would

fcofF

142 The JOURNAL of

fcofF at the exprcflion of their fpirlts being
felt, bvit the time will foon overtake them
wherein their fpirits will^feel, though now
perhaps in a great meafure paft feeling.
Next day I had a fmall but pretty open
meeting at MafTdale. From thence to
Terril, where I had a good open fatisfadory
meeting, truth being exalted and friends
comforted. The next meeting was Strick-
land, which was but fmall yet to good
fatisfadlion. I went from thence to Ken-
dal, and attended their meetings on fixth-
day, firft-day, and third-day. Moft of
them were to me trying laborious meet-
ings. I was not much opened as to mini-,
flry. Friends in many places had need
to be brought from words, to the one eter-
nal infpcaking word. On fourth-day at
Yealand in Lancafliire, I had a clofe fearch-
ing meeting. The next day I was favoured
with an open comfortable time at Wray
meeting. From thence I went to Bentham,
where truth affifted to difcharge what I had
before me, to a good degree of fatisfac-
tion. From thehce to Settle, where on
firft-day we were favoured with a precious
open meeting. The teftimony of truth
went forth freely and affedingly, to the
tendering many hearts : Praifes and thankf-
giving to the Lord for the fame. Next day
1 had a fmall but a very open meeting at
]VIonybent. From thence to Soly meeting,
which appeared to me in a very weak, low

condition^

JOHN GRIFFITH. 143

condition, as little of the life of religion was
to be found therein. After meeting I went
%o the houfe of my kind friends Jonathan
and Margaret Raine; and from thence to
Marfden Height meeting, in which the
Lord's power was livingly felt, whereby
the teftimony of truth was delivered with
clearnefs and good demonllration. Next day
had a meeting at Trawden. On firft-day
I went again to Marfden meeting, which
was a thorovigh good opportunity, and we
were fweetly comforted together.

Being now pretty much fatigued with
eonftant travelling and clofe labour, I relied
at Jonathan Raine's about a week, and
then went to a large meeting of friends in
Latherfdale, where I was much favoured,
and largely opened to deliver the dodlrines
of truth, with good demonftration, and to
my own peace. The next day I had a com-
fortable open meeting at Airton; my friend.
Jonathan Raine bearing me company. From
thence to Skipton, and had a meeting;
things were but low. I had that evening
a good open opportunity amongft our wor-
thy friend David Hall's fcholars. Thence
I went and had a meeting at Fairfield, which
was fmall, but pretty open and I hope fer-
viceabie. The next meeting was at Ne-
theridale, where I had very laborious fearch-
ing work ; the tefthnony was clofe and
iharp againft formal profeflbrs, yet, through
divine favour^ I was enabled to get through

to

144 The JOURNAL of

to very good fatisfacllon, and the meeting
ended comfortably. I went from thence to
Afquith, where was a Imall open meeting.
The next meeting was at Rodan, and being
on a firft-day, it was very large: a plain
folid body of friends belonged thereunto.
We v/ere favoured w^ith an open meeting,
the teftimony of truth being exalted. Next
day I had a very comfortable open meeting
ajt Bradford, and went to Keighley, which
was alfo an open fatisfadlory meeting. There
I received from my worthy friend David
Hall, by the hands of his wife, a truly fub-
ftantial and encouraging letter: as it con-
tains matter of weighty inftruclion, I wil-
lingly give it a place here, not doubting
but it will be very agreeable to fome read-
ers, and think it cannot hurt any.

Efteemed and well-beloved Friend,

IN the fweet fpirit, and fellowfhip of the
everlafting and glorious gofpel of peace,
I hereby kindly falute thee, and thy dear
companion and fellow- labourer in the ac-
ceptable work thou art now engaged in ;
not forgetting his worthy confort Margaret,
when thou feeft her. Be not at all difcou-
raged on any account, for I truft, thy good
Lord and mafter whom thou ferves, who
made thee willing to leave thy outward habi-
tation and little ones, and to traverfe the

rugged

JOHN GRIFFITH. 145

rugged ocean with thy life in thy hand, as
an ambafTador in Chrift's ftead, to preach
glad tidings of good things to the meek ; to
call upon and roufe the indolent and care-
lefs; to diredl the ftraying Iheep unto the
fold of reft; to raife the drooping ones
that are now too low, and endeavour to
bring down the lofty that are too high,
to the true centre, even the midft of the
path of judgment : in fhort, to bring unto
us the pledges of thy matter's love and
thine, and to receive ours; who, after he
had in his wifdom and counfel, fuffered
thee to be taken captive for the trial of
thy faith, in mercy ranfomed thee as an
evidence of his power, will never leave thee
nor forfake thee. I have unity with thy
fpirit, gift, and with the manner of the
adminiftration thereof. I intreat thee, dear
brother, keep to thy fteady bottom way.
The prefent ftate of the church loudly calls
upon us, for the entire refignation, faith,
hope, charity, and patience of the minifters
of the gofpel.

The diverfities of gifts, operations, and
adminiftrations, from the one fpirit, are
beautiful and ferviceable: as the ftars in
the firmament are not all of one magnitude,
have not all one ftation nor degree of luf-
tre, but are each ornamental and fervice-
able in their refpedive places and feafons.
The Lord blefs thee, be thy fiiield and ex-
ceeding great reward in time here, and in

eternicv

146 The JOURNAL of

eternity hereafter. Now as the apoflle, in
a paternal way, adviieJ his fon Timothy, to
drink no longer w^ater, but ufe a little wine
for his llomach's fake and his often infir-
mities: I defirc, as thou ferveft not an
auilere man or hard mailer, but the mofl:
merciful and bountiful King of Kings and
Lord of Lords, thou wilt take due care of
'thyfelf, and rightly confider thy conftitu-
tion. Do not drive on too fall in this
cold climate and leafon of the year; con-
fider, nets are not always to be fpread and
caft into the fea, l^ut fometimes to be
mended and repaired. Thou finds the good
feed lies low in many bofoms, and many
meetings ; experience teaches thee, that
where and when our mafter fuffers ; who
faid, where I am, there fliall my fervant
be ; we ought to be content to fuflfer with
him; that when he reigns, we may alfo
reign with him : fliall the fervant think to
xeign, when and where his Lord and mafter
fuffereth ? There are, my dear friend, thou
knoweft, times of fitting at the king's-
gate; a fafe, honourable, and profitable
fituation, previous to advancement: they
that are faithful in this low, fafe fitting, in
due time receive a call from the king to
put on his royal robes, mount his horfe
and ride around, which is a high dignity,
and a high day; yet thofe fo favoured, miift
not expcdt always to fit in that faddle, nor
always to be cloathed with that royal ap-
parel,

JOHN GRIFFITH. 147

parel, but as certainly difmount, as ever
they mounted; and niuft by no means for-
get the road to the honourable king's- gate,
and their honourable feat there. ^Ve ihould
be glad to fee thee here once more. Pray
write to us. My wife joins with me iii
dear love to thee, and thofe above-men-
tioned.

I am thy truly afFedliortate friend,

skipton, tf.e T9th of? David Hall,

joth month, 1748. >

After this meeting, I went home with
my companion Jonathan Raine, to Traw-
den. From thence I went next day to
Todmorden, and had a laborious exercife*
ing meeting there; yet through the ex-
tending of heavenly help, I was enabled to
difcharge the fervice required, to mine own
eafe and comfort in a good degree. I had
a fmall poor meeting at Oldham next day ;
filent labour feemed to be my proper bu-
finefs therein. On firft-day, the 25th of
joth month, I went to Crolhawbooth in
Roflendale, which was a pretty large meet-
ing ; but I was in fo weak a ftate of body,
being much fpent with travelling and deep
clofe labour, having for fome time but a very
poor appetite, that my fpirits were greatly
exhaufled; fo that finding my mind engaged
in that meeting, I flood up in order to de-^
Jiver what fecm^d to be required, but was

U pbJige4

14a The JOURNAL of

obliged foon to fit down^ dLg^iUy being fo
very weak and i'pent I' could not raife mjr
voice, fo as to be heard. I then conciuded
it was time to take fi me reft, in order to
irecoyer ftrengrh as forin>.rly. if it v/as the
Lord's will, which I did not then miiCih
cxpecl, thinking myfelf far gone; nor
indeed did i delire it; for my afflicflions,
feveral ways, about that time were very
heavy, which made m.e weary of this
world, and had ic been the Lord's will,
fhould have been glad to have embraced
death rather than hfe ; yet 1 endeavoured
to be reiigned to the divine will. Great
care was taken of me with affedlionate
kindnefs, by my worthy friends Jonathan
Raine, his wife, and her lifter Ann who
then lived with them; having often the
company of that valuable family", the Ec-
royds of Edgend: I was brought very near
thefe two families in that love that think-
eth no evil; being by illnefs, or rather
weaknefs, detained there about nine or ten
weeks. It was an exceeding wet feafon ;
being alfo the dead of winter, yet I got
moftly out to their meeting, which was
near; and went divers times, to Marfden-
Height meeting, about four miles off; and
once to Skipton, and Lotherdale, about
eight or ten miles off: in moft of which
meetings the Lord was with me to ixiy
great comfort, enlarging my hear,t in fer-
vice for him and his people^ to ixay.fatis-

faftion

JO H N G R ITT r T H. 14^

tacflion and encouragement. As foon as I
was pretty well recovered and the v/eather
more fit to travel in, I iet out tor Lau-
carter; my kind friend Jonathan Raine
bearing me company ; and attended both
their meetings on firft-day; being painful
and laborious, I had nothing given rne lo
deliver by way of public teilunony; divei^
friends there appeared to me rhen, and more
fince, lively and fenfible of the work ot true
religion; yet I apprehend, the expedatious
of too many were out after words chat day,
which was to be difappointed. O that all
were really turned to the more fure word,
that they might never be difappointed ! I
was next day at their monthly-meeting of
bufinefs, which was low, truth not having
much dominion therein. I went to Wyerf-
'dale, and had a pretty open meeting; re-
turned to Lancafter, where next day, we
were through divine goodnefs, fiivoured
with a heavenly baptising meeting, to oilr
great joy in reverent thankfulnefs ; friends
being fweetly vmited in the precious enjoy-
ment of the pure love and goodnefs df
God; having an additional confirmation,
that when the Lord is pteafed to fliut,
none can open, and when he is pleafed to
open, none can fliut. As there had been
very little opennefs at divers meetings there
before, and at this the Lord o{)ened places
of broad rivers and rtreams, to the unfpeak- ^
able pleafure and refrelhment of thirrty

Ibuis ;

I50 Th£ journal of-

fouls; in a fenfe thereof I took my leave
of friends, being accompanied by my efteem-
ed friends William Backhoufe and Jona-
than Raine. We had a pretty open com-
fortable meeting at the Fylde. Next day
had a thorough awakening opportunity at.
Freckleton, being enabled to divide the
word v^ith great plainnefs to their ftates ;
•wherein I had eafe and peace. We then
went to Prefton, where the number of
friends was exceeding fmall, and but little
to be felt of a fpiritual travail or lively fenfe
of religion amongft thofe few, there hav-
ing been a mournful declenfion ; yet I found
the. Lord's merciful loving-kindnefs gra-
ciouily extended towards them for their
help and recovery. From Prefton I went
to the following meetings, viz. Cappul,
AfhtoUj BickerftafF, and Leverpool: in all
which, the Lord was gracioufly pleafed to
afford wifdom and ftrength, to open doc-
trine and counfel for the ftimng up care-
lefs lukewarm profeffors, as well as to
the encouragement and edification of the
fincere-hearted, alfo to mine own eafe and
peace in a good degree. I went from Lever-
pool to the houfe of Gilbert Thompfon,
and was at Penketh meeting on firft-day;
where my fpirit was deeply afHi(5ted, under
a fenfe of too many profelTors fitting down
at eafe, ieeking to be fed with words and
outward declarations concerning the things
pf God, I have found this much, the

cafe

JOHN GRIFFITH. i^t

cafe at fome places where eminent in-
ftruments have dwelt. Friends have fuf-
fered their minds to be too much drawn
from a diligent fpiritual labour, to receive
the bread and water of life immediately
from the fountain thereof; and depended
upon the labour of fuch inllruments who
are but as clouds or water- fpouts ; having
no power to fill themfelves nor to feed thel
flock profitably, until , furniilied for that
purpofe, by the bounty of the inexhauftible
treafury of wifdom and all-fufficiency.
Here the fountain is forfaken for the ftream's
fake; the eye being more to the gift than
the giver, which is an abufe of the gift,
and provokes the Lord to jealoufy ; giving
him juft caufe to withhold fuch inftrumen-
tal means from people. The reafon of fuch
a dangerous miftake, to me is obvious, viz*
becaufe it is found eafier for flefli to receive
by fuch a medium; *^ Let iiot God fpeak
*' unto us, left we die, faid the people of
*' Ifrael, but let Mofes [the inftrument]
" fpeak unto us." There is a life that ought
to die on the crofs, which is eafier faved
alive under teftimonies be they ever fo fub-
ftantial and excellent, than under the im-
mediate teachings of Chrift; whofe voice
is as a fire againft evil of every kind, and
affords no peace after it is difcovered, until
it be given up for deftrudlion, and to be
purged away by the fpirit of judgment and
burning. This pure voice ipeaks to us in

ixiQk

ts^ The journal op

fuch a manner, as that we can by no means
turn it off from ourfelves by applying it
to the ftates of others; which niay be done
Under the moil fearching teftimonies ; thert2
being a partiahty to ourfelves, which,
through the deceitfulnefs of the heart, we
^lare bat too apt to fall into; and alfo to flat-
ter ourfelves, b"^ iuppoling the pleafure we
take in hearing the doctnnes of truth de-
^livered, arifes from the good in us, wheh
it may be no other than tne ftate of thole,
to whom the prophet Ezekiefs words and
declarations were as a lovely fong, of one
^that hath a pleafant voice: for they heard
^his words, it feems, wah pleafure, but did
•them not; their heart going flill after their
covetoufnefs. I have lengthened this re-
mark the more, becaufe of the very hurt-
ful confequences I often have icen and felt,
'by an over-anxioufnefs in people after out-
ward declarations ; even to the negletft of
that great and neceffary work, of drawing
near to God with true hearts, in full af-
furance of faith; wherein is our only fafety
iand help. May this conlideration deeply
engage all minds to return unto him, the
great Ihepherd of ;ii^ael, v/ho puts his own
ilieep forth and goeth before them, lead-
•ing into green pailures, bringing them up
from the vvafliing-pool, bearing twins, noiie
being barren aniongil them. I found it my
place to give that meeting an exiimple of
filence. From thence 1 went to their

monthly

JOHN GRIFEITH, 153

monthly- meeting at Hartfhavv, wherein I
fat a coMfiderable time in lilent waiting
upon and feeking the Lord, who was
pleafed in his own time to open a Hving
Ipring of miniftry, afid truth greatly pre-
vailed, t-q the comfort and edification of
friends: there being aifo divers not of our
fociety prefent during tiie meeting for wor-
ihip, amongfl w^iom one, who exprefled a
fenfe he had of an awful folemnity to be
felt in the meeting before any words were
uttered, which to him exceeded words or
outward declarations, or to that efFccl : as a
friend told me afterwards. This, dqubtlefs,
would be much more the cafe with many
who at times come amongfl us, were our.
religious meetings held more in the ihn^,
fible feeling of the divine power. From
thence 1 went to Manchefter, and had a
meeting there, Avhich was lov/ and affli(5l-
ing. Some who ihould have been way-
marks and leaders of the flock, not, keep-
ing their own fpirits in due fubjecT:ion to
the peaceable fpirit of truth, had not main-
tained the unity thereof, which is the bond
of peace: whereby that meeting was hurt
and the pernicious effefts thereof were pain-
fully felt. I (laid until their firft-day
meetings were over, where the Lord was
pleafed to afford fufHcient ability to dif-
charge the fervice required, to mine own,
eafe and comfort, in a good degree, I
w:ent from thence to Stockport in Che-

fliire,*

154 The J O IT R N A L of

fiiire, and had an open comfortable meet-
ing, to the reviving of thpfe few who la-
boured to teep their habitations in the
tiudi, and warning of carelefs profeflbrs.
I h^d next day a fmall poor meeting at Mac-
clesfield, I went fron> thence to Morley,
where, although the appearance of pro-
felTors was large, yet very little to be felt
of the life of religion amongft them; but
inftead thereof, a fenfe of death and dark-
nefs, occafioned by wrong things. I had
no opennefs at that time to adminifter any
thing, but an example of filence. I had a
:meeting next day at Frandley, where truth
favoured with a degree of opennefs, I
went from thence to Sutton, where things
appeared low: I found it my place to lit
the whole meeting in filence. The next
meeting was at Newton, being on firft'^
day, where I was favoured with a pretty
thorough opportunity to clear myfelf. Then
went to Weft-Chefler; had a fmall meeting
there in filence, and things appeared very-
low. The next day I had a good fatisfac-
tory meeting at Namptwich; and went tb
Middlewich, where I met our worthy friend
Jofhua Toft. The meeting was, through
divine goodnefs extended for our help, to
pretty good fatisfadlion. I went home with
the above-mentioned friend, and had a
meeting next day at Leek in StafFordfhire :
I fat the whole time in filence ; friends ap-
peared to me, in too general a way^ at eafe

in

JOHN GRIFFITH. 155

in an empty form of religion, depending on
the labour of others. I went next day
in company with jolliua Toft, to the burial
of a friend at Stafford ; there were but few
of our foclety thereabout, but many others
came, -fome of whom were very rude and
nolfy In tjie meeting. Our way was quite
blocked up as to miniflry. I returned with
Jofhua Toft and went to Leek meeting on
firft-day, wherein I had a thorough rouling
opportunity ; trtith being exalted, and the
great name of God magnified, who alone Is
worthy for ever. I went from thence In
company with my dear friend Jofhua Toft,
to the quarterly-meeting for Chefhire, to be
held at Middlewlch: Infinite klndnefs was
greatly manifefled at that meeting, for the
benefit of friends In general and the en-
couragement of the upright-hearted In par-
ticular. Things refpeCllng truth and fiiends
being In the general, very low In that coun-
ty; yet the Lord, lii condefceildlng klnd-
nefs, extended his love for their ixvival and
recovery. Here I found rhy mind engaged
to vifit Morley meeting aga;in, the aforelald
friend joining me therein ; and fending no-
tice by fome friends returning from the quar-
terly-meeting ; we had a very large meeting,
compofed of friends and others. I had tho-
rough fervice therein ; yet near the conclufion,
not finding my mind clear ot thofe under our
profefTion, others were deiired to withdraw,
which they immediately did. Our labour

X t\ra$

156 The JOURNAL of

v/as very clofe and fearching amongft thofe
tinder the profeffion of truth, things being
much out of order; undue liberties having
crept in. The Lord flivoured me with wii-
dom and ftrength, fo to difcharge myfelf of
the fervicc required, as to go away with a
peaceful eafy mind.

I have now to give an account of an un-
expecled turn I found in my mind, refpecft-
ing the courfe I was to (leer in my travels;.
When I left Lancafter I had no other view
than to vifit m?eetings agreeable to the
foregoing account, and to proceed in a
pretty dire6l courfe through the Midland
counties tow^ards London. But, very con-
trary to my expectation, I found my way
quite blocked up and flopped as to what i^
before hinted, and another opened before
me,' viz. To turn into Yorkfliire again, and
take meetings in my way to the quarterly-
meeting there; from thence to Lancafter
quarterly-meeting; and to the circular
yearly-meeting for the northern counties,
to be held that year at Kendal ; after
which, to crofs the fea for Ireland. But
O, the clofe exercife this imlooked-for
turn brought upon my mind : not fo much
out of reluflance to obey the Lord's re-
quiring, provided I was favoured with
clear certainty thereof, as fears of being
miflakcn ; and great reafbnings there were
in my weaknefs; yet through divine favour,

I was

JOHN G RIFFIFH. 157

I was enabled, ,ia a good degree to get
over them, and to yield obedience to that
which I beheved was required. I there-
upon acquainted my friend Wilham Eack-
houfe With the' time I purpofed going for
Ireland, as he, when with me in the Fylde
Country of Lancafhire, had fignified his de-
fire of bearing nie company tiierein, when
I found it my duty to undertake it ; al-
though neither he nor I thought then it
would be fo foon; however, I received
his anfwer, that he intended to prepare
againfl the time propofed, in order to bear
me company. We went from this meeting
to Lowlighton in Derbyfliire, where we
were favoured with a good open meeting,
and fo proceeded over the mountains of Der-
byihire-Peak, to SheiEeld in Yorkfliire;
where the Lord was pleafed to give us a
very gracious confirming meeting; truth
and its tefl:imony being greatly exalted.
This blefied opportunity removed all my
reafonings and fears before hinted 5 for
which my foul was humbly thankful to
the Lord, my alone helper. After this
meeting my much efl:eemed friend Jofliua
Toft and I took leave of each other, he
returning home. 1 went with our worthy
friend John Hafiam to his houfe at Handf-
worth Woodhoufe, where the next day I
had a very open fiitisfoclory meeting; the
Lord aflxDrding dodlrine and counfel fuit-
able to the ftates of thofe few belonging

to

158 The JOURNAL of

to that meeting. When at the houfe of my
friend before-mentioned, my mmd was
touched with foraething Uke his bearing me
company to York and from thence to Ken-
dal yearly-meetings which I informed him
of; bvit he made very light of it, perhaps
thinking my motive was only for the fake
of having his company. I advifed him to
take with him fuch things as he might
think neceffary, in cafe he v/as to go; and
if, when at York, he found no fuch con-
cern, he might then return home. We
fet out together for York, taking meet-
ings in our way, at Newel-Grange and Bar-
ton, which were precious open times; the
life and power pf truth attending to our
great comfort. We travelled on to Leeds,
and lodged at our worthy friend Chriftiana
Home's, who in her time had been a fuc-
courer of many pf the Lord's mefTengers,
being a truly open-hearted woman, a mo-
ther in our Ifrael. But fhe did not continue
a great while in mutability after this. Next
day we proceeded to York, and attended
the quarterly-meeting ; but cannot find any
memorandum by me of its fiate, therefore
have but little to fay concerning it. I flaid
over their firft-day meetings at York; they
were hard and painful; I had nothing by
way of teftimony, fave a little at one of
them. My truly valuable friend John
Hailam acquainted me, that what I had
f^id to Iiim at his own houfe, of bearing

me

JOHN GRIFFITH- 159

me company to Lancafter quarterly- meet-
ing and the yearly-meeting at Kendal,
had laid fuch clofe hold of his mind that
he could not find freedom to leave me.
He faid I had, by thofe few expreffions,
although he did hot much regard them,
at firft, caft fuch a mantle over him, (or to
that efFedl) that he found he muft go with
me, though not fo well provided for the
journey as he could defire. We went from
York to our friend William Hird's, and
from thence to David Hall's, and fo to the
monthly-meeting at Settle. In the after-
noon the fame day, we were at the burial
of a friend there, which was an open fatif-
fadlory time, truth overfhadowing the meet-
ing, and the tellimony thereof was exalted
to our great comfort. Next day we had
a pretty open comfortable meeting at Ben-
tham, and went from thence to the houfe
of our friend William Backhoufe, who I
expected to find prepared to go with me
into Ireland; but to my no fmall furprize^
I found he had reafoned it away, under an
apprehenfion that his propofal of accompany-^
ing me proceeded more from his love to me
than any real concern at that time. I was
fully perfuaded his concern was right, as he
had acquainted me it had remained on his
mind to vifit Ireland again for fome years:
I therefore had a great travail in my mind
for him, that he might be brought to a
right fenfe and difcerning of the Lord's re-

quirings;

i6o The JOURNAL of

quirings; being fully fatisfied he was a man
of fiiicerity, who vvould not wilfully tranf-
grefs.

I took an opportunity with him next
morning, and his concern returning, and he
abiding fteadily under the weight thereof,
afterwards performed the faid journey to his
own peace, and was to me an agreeable friend
and fellow- labourer. Having appointed to
meet me at Whitehaven; we went from his
houfe to Lancafter, and attended their meet-
ings on firft-day. In both which I found it
my bufinefs to fet an example of filence.
I was taken fuddenly that night after all
were a bed, with an uncommon fwelling
in my throat, not much unlike a quinfey ;
I could fcarcely fwallow liquids for fome
time, fo that it feemed very probable to
thofe about me, that it would foon be over
with me, as to this world. Concerning
which, I was very eafy in my mind. A
dodlor was quickly fent for; by whofe care,
under divine favour, I foon recovered, fo
as to attend the yearly-meeting at Kendal.
It was very large, there being a great col-
lection of friends from many parts, and large
numbers of people of other ibcieties. This
meeting was divinely favoured, efpecially
at the concluding meeting, wherein God's
everlafting truth triumphed glorioufly, and
xnj poor deprefTed fpirit, that had long
waded under the weight of wrong things,
was raifed into comfortable dominion, and

obtained.

JOHN GRIFFITH. i6i

obtained, through the captain of our falva-
tion, complete vidlory over thofe hard un-
mortined fpirits, undue Hberties, and car-*
nal Kfelefs profeiTors, I had long mourned
under a painful fenfe of, in my northern
travels; now I was fet over them ail, for
I fenfibly perceived, and livingly felt his
eternal power fet over all wrong fpirits, and
clearly faw the Lamb and his followers will
obtain the viclory: and although it hath
been, is, and will be, through great fuf*
ferings ; yet thofe who patiently fuffer with
Chrill, fliall alfo reign with him. This
meeting crowned all my fervice in thofe
parts ; after which I found my mind quite
at liberty to embark for Ireland. I fet out
next day for Whitehaven in company with
my good friend Chriftopher Wilfon ; a
very pleafant journey we had, in that fweet
innocent freedom which cloathed our fpirits,
feeling the confolating ftreams of that river
which maketh glad the city of God. Here
we, in degree, enjoyed the new heavens and
the new earth wherein dwelleth righteouf-
nefs : the fruit and effect whereof is quiet-
nefs and affurance for ever. I was at Pard-
Ihaw meeting, being on a firft-day. It was
a precious opportunity; truth was greatly
in dominion and its teftimonv exalted,
the fincere-hearted being fweetly comforted
and united one to another. The next day
I went to their monthly-meeting, and had
good fervice, both in the meeting of w^or-

i62 The JOURNAL of

ihip and that for tranfacting the affairs of
the church. The weighty fervice of vifit-
ing families was before that meeting, and
I underftood had been fometime obftrucfted
by fome of the members, to the concern
and uneafinefs of others. It was clear td
xne, when it came to be weightily confider-
ed, that the power and virtue of truth was
livingly with the promoters of fo good a
work, and I did fully believe the Lord
would blefs it in their hands. I therefore
endeavoured to lift the oppofite fide as well
as I could, to the bottom, and found very
little or no weight in what they had to
offer againfl it. Upon which they were ear-
neflly defired not to hinder the fervice of
others, in that important work that had
fo often and fo evidently been bleffed, al-
though they might be vmwilling to put
their own hands thereto. Truth arofe and
came over them, fo that friends at that
meeting appointed fifteen or fixteen men
and women, to go in feveral companies on
the fervice, as that monthly-meeting is large
in its extent. This afforded great relief
and fatisfadlion to the fincere travellers
for Sion's profperity. I went from thence
accompanied by feveral friends, to White-
haven, where I met my intended compa-
nion William Backhoufe; and a fhip be-
longing to a friend, whofe name was
James Nicholfon, being ready to fail for
Dublin, we went on board of her, the 1 9ch

of

JOHN GRIFFITH. 163

of the 2(1 month, 1749, in the evening,
and were foon under fail. We met Wr h
contrary winds, and a very rough uiieafy paf-
fage as to our bodies; being five days and as
many nig'its before we landed. What
made it much harder for William and me
to bear, we had given up the beds prepar-
ed for us to two women friends that came
on board and were unprovided, they be g
alfo very fea-fick moft of the time; fo we
were under a necelTity of lying down, on
the cabin floor or upon fome ot the chefls,
in our cloaths, wliich \Ye did not take off
all the while, that I remember. This
proved very trying and hard to us, and
greatly fpent and fatigaed we were when
we landed at Dublin : where we were re-
ceived an^" entertained with affeclionate
kindnefs by our friend Samuel Judd and
family, at whofe houfe we lodged while
in that citf? The hajf year's meeting began
in the morning ot the day we landed, i;:
being afternoon when we got on fhore.

Tiie next day we aitended two meetings
for the afifliirs of the church; and I am
fully perfuaded, there was a faithful exer-
cifed remnant, painfully labouring for the
reftoration of ancient beauty and comelineis,
and the affairs of the church were tranf-
a6led with very confiderable order and
decency ; yet my Ipirit ' was, as it were,
cloathed with deep mourning, and much
clofed up in painful anxiety. The caufe

Y whereof

i64 The JOURNAL or

whereof I did not then diftindllv imder-
(land ; but when I had travelled through
the nation, viliting the churches, and for-
row fully viewing the defolations thereof, my
futFerings in fpirit at the half year's meet-
ing were no longer a myflery to me. The
next morning was held a general large con-
cluding meetnig for worlhip and in the
afternoon a meeting of minifters and
elders ; at both wnich, efpecially the
latter, I had open thorough fervice; as alfa
in their week-day meeting at Sycomore-aiiey
on fixth-day. We (laid at Dublin over firfl-
day: at Meath-Street in the morning the
Lord was pleafed to f urniih largely with
matter and utterance, to a good degree of
fatisfac5lion. In the afternoon at Sycomore-
alley, I found it my duty ^^aiifjbe filent.
On fecond-day we fet out from Dublin,
accompanied by James Evans and wife, in
order to vilit the following meeikigs-in our
Avay towards Cork, viz. Ball^cane, Wick-
low, Errats, Wrights, CooLidlne, Wex-
ford, Lambfton, Rofs, Waterford, Clon-
mel, Kilcomon, YoughSll, and fo to Cork;
We found things very low indeed in molt
of the faid meetings ; my labour in them
was generally fearching, painful, and labo-
rious. Truth feldom having that comfort-
able dominion (by reafon of the prevalence
of wrong things) as was earneftly laboured
for, both by us, and alfo by a few mourn-
ers fcattered up and down in thofe parts^

who

JOHN GRIFFITH. i6;

wlio waited for, and ardently fonglit the
profperlty of Zion. Such can only rejoice
when the righteous feed beareth rule. We
had feveral meetings in the city of Cork,
where there is a conliderable body of friends,
as to number. But oh! the love of this
world and other undue liberties, hath pre-
vailed, to the great hurt of the fociety
there alfo. Our labour was for the moft
part, painful and exercifing amongfl them.
From thence we went to Kilcomon again j
fo to Cafhel, Limerick, Jonathan Barns's,
and Birr. At feveral of which meetings I
found it my place to example the people
with lilence, which was the cafe at Birr,
having (as it was faid) all the people called
Methodifts refiding there, and their preacher
at the meeting; than whom, I think no peo-
ple are more at a lofs what to do with filence
in worfhip; I am perfuaded there have been
awakening of merciful kindnefs to them,
and they have feen the necefTity of the new-
birth ; but their notions about it have been
for the moft part, in the airy vifions, and
flightinefs of their own imaginations; not
coming to ceafe from man, or from their
own willings and runnings. Oh that they
were fo happy as to be emptied! that God
might be all in all, working in them the
will and the deed; then would they come
really to experience true poverty of fpirit,
and to abhor forward adlive felf, whofe time
is always ready. In this fafe, felf-denvi g

licuatioiis

i66 The JOURNAL ot

fitaation, they would really feel an abfolute
neceffity to wait, as with their mouths in
the dull before the Lord, until he Ihall be
plea fed to arife in their hearts ; whereby
all his and their enemies would be fcattered.
Then would true worfhip be performed^
and they eftabliihed upon the immoveable
rock that the gates of hell cannot prevail
againft. After Birr, we had meetings at
.the Moat, Old-Caftle, Ballyhaife, Coothill^
and Caftlefhane ; which meetings were
moftly fmall and painful; truth favoured
with a degree of ftrength, to labour for
their help and recovery; but, alas 1 the life
of rel g'on appeared to be at a very low ebb^
The next meetings we had were at Bally-
hagen and Charlemont, which were laigc,
yet but little to be felt of the life of reli-
gion moving or ftirring in them; neither
did there appear to be much foundnefs
amdngll iome of the foremoil r«nk ; feveral
of whom having adminiuered caufe of
{tumbling and difcouragement to others,
it had a bad favour and influence; inftead
of gathering, it had tended to fcatter from
the fold of Chrift's flock. I had very clofe
fearching-work among! t them, in order to
bring the judgment of truth over fuch, as
the Lord was pleafed to open my way and
to difcover their fl:ates to me, being altoge-
ther without any outward information there-
of. I underflood afterwards fome of them
refented it, thoiigh they laid nothing to

me

JOHN GRIFFITH. 167

ine about it; but as fome had before, fo I
vinderilood one or more of them did fooii
after, manifed a bafe ungodly foundation.
We proceeded from thence to take the
meetings round Lough Neigh, viz. Tober-
head, Coh^aine, Balhnacre, Grange, and
Antrim; which meetings appeared indeed
ahnoft a defolation with refpedl to the fen-
iible poirefTion of truth, although it was
profefTed by fome. A time of deep mourn-
ing and diftrefs it was to my foul, to view
their captivity and lofs, which themfelves
did not feem to have much fenfe of. The
next meeting was Baliinderry, being very
large^ but heavy and painful; yet the ble^
fed power of truth prevailea in a good de-
gree. From thence we went to the follow-
ing places and had meetings, viz. Lifburn,
Hilfborough, Lurgan, andMoyallan; where,
although we found fome true mourners in
and for Zion, yet the bulk of the fociety
feemed to love the world and the things
that are therein, to that degree, as to have
very little tafte or relifli for the things of
God. Even fome of thofe, who, by their
fhations in the church, ought to have been
lively examples of felf-denial in this refped:,
appeared to be as deeply plunged into this
mournful caufe of defolation as any. Alas!
what account will they have to give of their
ftewardfliip, when the chief fhepherd fhall
appear. From this place we croffed the
country to Edenderry ; once remarkable for

a brave.

i68 The JOURNAL of

a brave, lively body of friends : there are
now a large number of profellbrs belonging
to it ; but, alas ! the glory is much depart-
ed, and the fountain of living v^^ater forfa-
ken by many. Oh, how are they gone into
captivity by the muddy waters of Babylon !
"We attended their meeting on a firft-day,
but could hear no melody or fong of Zion ;
all being doled up, and our harps hung, as
it were, upon the willows. It was a time
of deep filent mourning. About the time
of breaking up that meeting, it hvingly
fprung in my mind, that as they had re-
jedled abundant favours bellowed upon them
that they might be gathered to God, fo the
Lord would rejeft many of them. The
next meetings we had, were at Timahoe,
Rathagon, Mount Melick, Mountrath,
Ballinakill, at James Huchefon's, Carlow,
Kilconner, and the province meeting at
Caftle Dermot. Pain, diflrefs, and ciofe
labour, either in teftimony, or an example
of filence, attended in the laft-mentioned
meetings; yet the Lord was a gracious fup-
port through all. I hope our deep wadir^gs
and painful fervice, was not without fome
.good effedls, both to the ftirring up the
carelefs, and comforting the mourners in
Zion. I had very clofe fervice at the pro-
vince meeting ; yet, by divine favour, was
carried through to pretty good fatisfaflion,
and I believe it was a ferviceable meeting to
many. From thence, in our way to Dub-^

liWj

JOHN GRIFFITH. 169

Hn, we had meetings at Athy, Ballytore^
and Baltybois, which were very fmall, and
true reHgiori very low. From thence we
went to DabUn, intending fliortly to em-
bark for England. We attended the meet-
ings in the city, both on firft and other
days of the week during our ftay, but I
had very Uttle opennefs therein ; being made
to the profefTors as a fign and example of
filence from meeting to meeting. Great
indeed were my inward dlftreffes, on account
of the mournful declenfion of the church in
Ireland: the Lord knoweth, and was my
only fupport under it. Bleffed be his name
for ever! Divers there were amongft them-
felves, who greatly lamented it. The tra-
vail of whole pained fouls, I hope the Lord
of fabbaths will regard in his own time, fo
as to turn his hand again upon a greatly
declined church, that he may, by the fpirit
of judgment and burning, purely purge
away her drofs, take away her tin and
reprobate filver; that her judges may be
reftored as at the firft, and her counfellors
as at the beginning.

It may by fome be looked upon rather
imprudent, to lay open the defedion and
fpiritual condition or ftate of our fociety,
which depends fo much upon my own tef-
timony of an inward fenfe given me thereof
in my travels. In the firft place, no other
perfon can do it for me, and I cannot find
my mind eafy that it lliould be wholly

omitted.

lyo The JOURNAL of

omitted. It hith been fo repeatedly, and
with fuch clear evidence to my underftand-
ing confirmed, that I have not the leaft
doubt of what I write in that refpedl ; al-
though it be with a confiderable degree of
rel usance, yet it feems my way, and I am
not eafy to go out of it ; Intending no other
by thofe clofe remarks, than as leiFons of
inflru6lion, caution, and warning to fucceed-
ing generations; if, when I am removed
hence, this be looked upon worth printing.
So far I may add, that the laying open the
mournful declenfion of the fociety, and
pomting out fome of the caufes thereof,
as my underftanding might be opened there-
into, was one of the principal things that
engaged me to write a journal: it never
entering into my thought, that my tra-
vels and lltde fervices, fnigly confidered,
were of fach confequence as to merit the re-
gard of my friends, fo as to be publilhed ; but
thinking the account of my travels and the
obfervations of the ftate of things are
neceflarily connecled together, fo that in
doing the firil, 1 could not well avoid the
laft. I have further to add, that I think
myfelf alfo warranted herein, by the exam^-
ple of God's faithful witneifes in ages paft,
With whom it was ufual to lay open the
ftates of the people, both in an individual
manner and in a more collective body,
viz. as nations, focieties, or churches; alfo
fetting forth, for a warning to all fucceed-

ing

^dHN GUIFFITH. 171

ing generations, thofe particular evils which
caufed the Lord's difpleafure, and would,
if not turned from, bring down his judg-
ments upon them. We alfo find, that even
thefe warnings and heavy denunciations
of judgment, were preferved in writing, as
a teflimony for God, and againft themfelves,
even by thofe againft whom they were really
given forth; yea, the particular evils and
frailties which, through inadvertency, the
Lord's choice fervants fell into, and deeply
repented of, are recorded; not only as
warnings to all, but alfo to excite charity
and tendernefs towards thofe who have fal-
len into evil, in cafe they repent and for-
fake; confidering ourfelves, that we may
alfo be tempted, and therefore never dare
upbraid thofe, who, through their own im-
prudence, have fallen amongft thieves and
are naked and wounded, provided they re-
turn again to the father's houfe. I have juft
further to remark, that I have obferved a
prevailing difpofition in fome lof confidera-
ble eminence in the fociety, and in a great
many others, to cry up mightily for peace
and charity, the maintenance of unity, and
not 'to prefs any thing very clofely, left
the peace of the fociety ihouid thereby
be endangered; although, perhaps, the
things urged cannot well be objefted to
upon any other principle, than groand-
lefs fears, and a faint-hearted mind not yet:
quire upright to God, nor wholly rCvleem-

Z ed

171 The JOURNAL or

ed from the praife of men : as there Is a?i
unwiUingnefs to difpleafe them, though in
maintauiing the Lord's caiife: " for if I yet
" pleafed men (faid Paul) I fliould not be
" the fervant of Chrift." \yhat makes me
take notice of this, is, that I have ihtn a
great fnare in it, wrong things fuffered to
remain and prevail under it, and the fire
of primitive zeal againft undue liberty,
too much quenched. We have no fuch
examples in the prophets, or in Chrift and
his apoftles, of indulgence, and winking
at wrong things, and falfe eafe. They,
in their concern to teftify againft fuch
things, had no fear of breaking unity,
nor difturbing the quiet and peace of
any people, let their rank or ftation be
what it may. Had this noble fpirit of
ancient zeal been more generally exercifed
in plain dealing and fpeaking the truth
one to another, the mournful declen-
fion fo juftly complained of amongft us
as a people, would not have fo generally
prevailed. It is but about a century, fmcc
the Lord, by an out-flretched arm, gathered
our fociety, as from the barren mountains
and deiblale hills of empty profeilion ; choofe-
ing them for Iris own peculiar flock and
family; as by many evident tokens of his
love and mighty protection, doth fully ap-
pear: even when the powers. of the earth,
like the raging waves of the fea, rofe up
'-igainft them, with full purpofe to fcatter and

lay

JOHN GRIFFITH. 173

lay wafte. This remarkable inilance of his
regard, muft, I think, gain the aflent of
every confiderate perfon, who hath not yet
a capacity of uiiderllanding clearly the
Lord's gi^acious dealings with his people,
in a more fpiritual and myfterious relation.
When I view the multitude of his favours
and bleiTings to them in this refpecffc, I am
acfraid even to attempt the recounting and
letting forth' fo copious and amazing a fub-
je6l, which can better be admired, and the
bountiful author adored for the fame. It
may be juftly queried, what could the Lord
have done for us that he hath not done?
Notwithftanding which, what indifference,
lukewarmnefs, and infenlibility as to the
life of religion, is now to be found amongfl
numbers under our name; nay, in fome
places, this painful lethargy is become al-
mofl general; although I hope a few may
be excepted, who are much affllc5led on that
account, being exceedingly burdened with
an earthly, carnal fpirit. Oh! how doth
covetoufnefs v^^hich is idolatry, and an in-
ordinate love of things, lawful in themfelves
and places, cloak, ftelter, and hug them-
felves, even under a plain appearance in
ibme; yet plainnefs is no m.ore to blame
tor that, than the name difciple or apoftle
was to blame, becaufe Judas once bore that
name, I could write much more on this
mournful fubjed, having fuuered Co deeply
in my travels on account of the grievous

dccleniion j

174 The JOURNAL or

dcclenfion ; biit hope to eafe my mind, by-
dropping here and there a remark, as 1 pro-
ceed in g ving account of my travels.

We embarked at Dubhn the eighteenth
of the 5th month in the morning, and
landed at Peel near Swarthmoor-Hail next
day. One thing I am not quite free to
omit, as I could not well help looking upon
it a providential prefervation of my life,
viz. the fands being very extenfive there-
about, and v^^e happening rather too late>
as to the time of tide-ferving, to be fet on
fliore, could not, by the waters leaving of
us, bring the boat up fo as to land in time.
We were thus fet fait, about half a mile
from firm land. We could therefore think
of no better way in this difficulty, than
accepting the poor failo^s affiilance, which
they kindly offered us, viz. to carry us
to land on their backs, which -was no linall
undertaking, as we were, efpecially myfelf,
none of the lighteft; however, I was the
firft, and believe the failor, who was a
ttrong man, would have carried me to land,
had not both of us, in our journey thither,
fallen into a large quick- fand. The failor
immediately left me (his burden) to fliift
for myfelf, whilll he did the fame; but
he had greatly the advantage of me, as he
could fvvim, which I had never learned.
However, I was, fome how or other,
buoyed up in a wonderful manner, fo that I
never was plunged over head; to vvhich,

perhaps^

I

JOHN GRIFFITH. 175

pcrliaps, my great coat buttoned about me, -
might in fome meafure contribute. I
well remember, that I could feel nothing
under my feet but water, or foft mud that
could bear up no more than water ; my head
beu:ig all the while above water; I knew
which way we tumbled in, and being near
the bank, I made fome fhift to fcramble to
it, and to chmb up of myfelf. I then
waded to the fliore, being exceeding wet
and dirty. We went to a poor cottage,
where the accommodations were indeed very
mean ; but the poor people's kindnefs and
hofpitality was very noble, which we did
not let pafs unrewarded. We got that night
%o my affectionate companion's houfe; hav-
ing travelled the before-mentioned journey
with great diligence, in much love and
harmony one with another, and were not
quite three months out of England. The
firit meeting I went to after we landed,
was Yeoland, as my companion belonged
to it, which was a good open meeting;
truth being exalted over wrong things. I
went from thence to Lancafter, where I had
a fatisfaclory meeting ; the Lord's power
in a good degree having dominion, to our
comfort. I went from Lancafter diredly
to Warrington, and was at Penketh meet-
ing in the forenoon, being firft-day; where
the Lord was plealcd to favour us with a
precious opportunity, truth being exalted
over all, and the fmcere travellers Sionward

greatly

176 The JOURNAL of

greatly comforted, in the fweet enjoyment
6f the Lord's prefence, which was livingly
felt amongft us. Praifes to his holy name
for ever! In tlic afternoon w^e had a large
meeting at Warrington, where it appeared
my duty to fit^ in filence; the want of
which, properly employed, proves a great
lofs to our ibciety in many places. 1 went
next day, accompanied by my worthy friends'
Samuel Fothergill and William Dilworth^
in order to be at Marfden- Height yearly-
meeting, and to vifit my kind friends there-
about. I attended Marlden week-day meet-
ing on fifth- day, which was fatisfac^lory.
On the firft-day following, the yearly-*
meeting was held, to which came a large
collection of. friends from parts adjacent,
and a pretty, many people ot other perfua-
fions. The Lord was pleafed to exalt hig
glorious truth and the tellimony thereof,
in a free and open manner that day, to the
comfort of many hearts. I went from thence
to Todmorden, and fo to Manchefter, being
accompanied by my affedionate friends
Jonathan Raine and his wife. At Man-
chefter we had an open comfortable meet-
ing, truth having dominion ; v/herein alone
the upright-hearted can rejoice, with joy
unfpeakable and full of glory. I went to
Oldham meeting on firft-day; which was
in a good degree open, and 1 hope fervice-
able. The next day I travelled to my wor-
thy friend Jofliua Toft's near Leek; had

a meet-

JOHN GRIFFITH. 177

a meeting there, in which I found it my
place to fit the whole time in fi]ence<
From thence I travelled towards Birming-
ham in Warvvickihire, having my faid
friend with me. We attended both their
meetings, being on firfl-day ; they were
very heavy and laborious, through the pre-,
yalence of lukewarmnefs in fome, and un-
due liberty in others; fo that I had but;
■yery little opennefs at either of the meet-
ings, and was quite fliut up in filence at;
one of them. The next meetings wq had
were at V/iganfal and Atherftone ; but
found the life of religion very low in them.
The yearly- meetings for the weflerly coun-
ties being to be held at Coventry, we went
thither in order to attend the fame, which
began on firft-day, the fixth of the fixth
month, 1749. The meetings were held
in a large town-hall ; conveniency being
made therein by friends for the purpofe;
fo that one room which was called the
hall, would contain by computation, not
lefs than ' a thoufand people ; and another
under the fame roof, it was fuppofed
would contain above five hundred. We had
a pretty large meeting-houfe befides. Thefc,
I think, once or more, v/ere all filled at one
time. There was indeed a great collecftloa
of friends from many parts, and very great
fiockings in of others, amongit whom there
was confidcrable opennefs, and th,eir beha-
viour in general waS' becoming. The gof-

pel

178 ^ The journal d^

pel was preached with power, clearnefs*
and good demonilration. I found myfelf
much excufed from public fervice, which
I accounted a favour ; having greatly to
rejoice in the exaltation of truth's teflimony
througli well qualified inftruments, of whom
there were a confiderable number prefent,
whom I greatly preferred, and was glad
the public fervice fell chiefly upon them;
for I have ever accounted it a concern of
great importance, to appear by way of
public teflimony in thofe large affemblies,
and have earneftly prayed they might be
condudled in the beft wifdom; which,
doubtlefs, would always be the cafe, if the
fpirits of all who undertake the great and
awful work of the miniftry, were truly fub-
jecled to the alone fource or fountain there-
of: who is, to his humble dependant ones,
wifdom and utterance. The meeting ended
on third-day, to the comfort of friends,
and, as far as appeared, to the general fatis-
fadlion of others; whofe attention to what
was delivered, and behaviour to friends in
general, was to their honour, and the repu-
tation of the city of Coventry. On fourth-
day there was a meeting appointed at my
requeft, in Warwick, to which I went;
but when I faw the great comings in of
people ; many of whom by their appearance^
feemed to be of the principal inhabitants;
I was pretty much intimidated, and fell
under difcouragemcnt for a time, know-
ing

JOHN GRIFFITH, 179

ing my own great weaknefs. My great fear
Was, leil through my means, or that of
fome others prefent, truth might fuffer.
I cried with earned concern to the Lord,
who feeth in feeret, and he was gracioufly
pleaied to hear, and to furniih with mighty
by his fpirit in the inward man; fo that
the everlafting truth and its teftimony,
was exalted that day, and the people ap-
peared to be pretty much affected there-
with,

I have many times ft^cn. it very profitable
to be deeply humbled, and awfully prof-
trated before the almighty povv'efful helper
of his people; that fo, what we are in the
miniftry may be by his grace only ; hav-
ing obferved, where the creaturely part is
not wholly abafed, but fome fufficiency or
treafure belonging thereunto is yet faved
or referved (it being very clofe work to be
ftrippedof all) there hath been a mixture
brought forth; a wearing the linen and
Woollen garment, and fowing the field with
two forts of grain; and when any by
■cuftom, their own unwatchfulnefs, or the
negledt of others whole care fhould have
•been over them, become, as it were, efla-^
tliflied in this mixture, I think they fel-
dom get out of it the right way, by the
bad being removed, and the good preferved,
Oh, it is a great thing to ftand fully ap^
proved in this foleijin fervice.! to fpeak as
che oracles of God, and to minifter of the
A a iabilipy

i8o The JOURNAL of

ability immediately given by him. Bleffed
will that fervant be, who when his l-Oid
cometli, is found dividing the word aright,
giving the flock and femily of Chrilt their
proper portion of meat, and that in doe
feafon.

Having a defire to take feme meetings
in my way into Wales, whither I intend-
ed in order to vifit my dear ancient mother,
I took the following meetings, viz. Hen-
ley, Broomfgrove, and Worcefter. I had ciofe
laborious fervice in them, as was often my
^lot where I travelled. I fpent about a week
at my mother^s, having leverai large tho-
rough ferviceable meetings am^ongft friends,
my old neighbours, and acquaintance;
their hearts being tendered, and fome mvich
affected. But, alas ! things are at a low ebb
with our fociety in thoie parts, and the
conducl of fome rather adminifters caufe of
itumbling than convincement to others,
I travelled from thence to Bewdly, Stour-
bridge, and Dudley; my brother Benjamin
bearing me company. I had good open
fervice at the faid meetings, and went to
Birmingham, where I had a hard trying
meeting as before. I went from thence to
Hartihill general meeting, being on a firft-
day. It was, through divine favour, an
open good meeting. I went the thir^-day
following back to the burial of a friend at
Birmingham; and returned to the houfe of
my kind friend John xJradford, who bore

me

JOHN GRIFFITH. i8j

me company next day to Hlnkley in Lei-
ceiiei'iliire, where we had a pretty open
meeting, and went to Leiceiler, where the
Lord was pleafed to favour us with a fatif-
facl:ory meeting. Next day I liad a fniall
meeting at Soil by, things being very low
there. From thence to Caille-Dunington,
and had two meetings, being firft-day ; to
which many friends from Nottmgham came;
they were hirge, and I believe ferviceabie
meetings to many. Next day I had a fmall
poor meeting at Wimes-Wood ; and went
to Longclawfon, where I could perceive very
little of the life of religion. From thence
to Oakham in Rutlandshire, and had a
comfortable meeting; truth and its tefti-
mony had confiderable dominion. From
thence to Leiceiler quarterly-meeting; and
to Kettering in Northamptonfliire ; where I
had a good degree of opennefs, and truth
prevailed. Then to . Wellingborough, on
iirft-day, and attended their fore and
i.afcernoon meetings ; the fir ft was a clofe
' exerciiing time, in a painful filence, and
forrowfui {hnk of the indifference and in-
fenfibility of many ; it was a large meet-
ing, and to me, the much greater part ap-
peared very ignorant of the importance of
that worfhip and fervice they profeffed to
meet about. In the afternoon I was favoured
with wifdom and ftrength to difcarge my
mind, in a clofe fearching teftimony. The
nest day I had a* meeting to pretty good

fatisfadioAj

i82 The JOURNAL 6f

fadsfadlion, at Ranee. The day following
I went to the monthly-meeting at Ramfaj
in Hxmtingvionfhire, where I had good fer-
vice. After which, had meetings at Ives,
Godmanchefler, Erith, and Hadenham ;
tnoft of which were pretty open and fer-
viceable, through divine help,- for without
the Lord's bleifmg on our labours, they
prove altogether fniitlefs, the increafe being
from him alone. I went nest to Milden-
hall in Suffolk, where on a firft-day 1 had
a large meeting to good fatisfaclion. The
next meetings were at Burry, and Haverill;
the laft of which, being moftly people of
other focieties, was open, and the teftinrlo-
nles of truth a|)peared to be well received.
I went from thence to Saffron- Walden in
Effex^ and had a very painful afflidling
meeting : very little to be felt of the life of
religion therein. Oh ! what pity it is, fo
many up and down, do fatisfy themfelves
with' a profeffion of truth ; only having a
name to live^ when they are really dead, as
to the quickenlngs of heavenly virtue. The
next meeting I had was at Stebblng ; where-
in we were fa\^oured with the opening of
the living fountain in a good degree; yet
there appeared to me to be fome obdurate
unfaithful fpirits under our profeffion, who
feemed out of reach in a forrowful degree,
and very hard to be made fenfible of the
weight and importance of our religious
tertunonies; efpecially* in fome branches

thereof*

JOHN GRIFFITH. 183

thereof. Such caufe a fecret pain and an"*
guiili, which covers the minds of poor tra-
vellers in the work of the gofpel, like un-
.to the fackcloth underneath. I feldona
^found room and opportunity to put it
-wholly off, though I was frequently favour-
;ed with a comfortable evidence, that the
^(Lord was with me, gracioufly owning my
'ifervice for him and his people. At the
-next meeting at Coggelhall, on firft-day, I
had clofe, fearching, laborious fervice, and
found fomething exceeding heavy in that
meeting; yet, by divine favour, I was car-
ried through to a good degree of fatisfacftion.
Next day 1 had a meeting at Kelvedon, and
another the day following at Witham. At
both which, my labour in teftimony was
very clofe and roufing; in order, if pof-
fible, to awaken and (fir up lukewarm, un-
faithful profefTors ; and by the bleiTed effi-
cacy of the vv^ord of life, the wholefbmc
dodlrine of truth was fet over them, and
the few upright-hearted had relief. I went
from thence to Chelmsford, where I had
good open fervice at their week-day meet-
ing, and alfo on the fir ft- day following:
notwithftanding which, a fecret pain ac-
companied my mind, occafioned, in a great
meafure no doubt, by thofe unfaithful pro-
felTors before hinted at, who have neither
courage nor fidelity to maintain any branch
of our Chriftian teftimony, when there ap-
pears any probability of outward lofles, or

fuffering

184 Thf journal of

fiiiferirg thereby: dealing with our princi-
ple in a very lax, indifferent manner, tak-
ing what they pleafe, and iacrificing the
rell to their own felfifh views ; fuch are as
fpots in our fealts of charity, and a mourn-
ful load to the truly living in religion :
but the Lord Almighty, who hears their
groanings, will in his own time grant re-
lief; and thefc Ihall bear their own bur-
dens. I went from Chelmsford to a mar-
riage at Dunmow, and from thence to
Roydon in Kerifordfhire. Things, as to
the life of religion, appeared very low there;
I had nothing to minifter unto them but
an example of filence. Next I had a meet-
ing at Baldock, which was low and rather
painful. I went from thence to Hitching,
and was at their firli-day meetings. They
were prety open and iatisfadlory. From
thence to Ampthill, where things appeared
low. Then to Hogftyend, where 1 had
fome opennefs and lacisfadion : at Shering*
ton I had a low painful meeting. The
next meeting I had was at Northampton,
which w\as a very trying time; but the
Lord, by his powerful word, gave me do-
minion in a good degree, over dark, liber-
tine Ipirits: things, as to true religion,
feemed almofi: loft there. The next meet-
ing was at Bugbrook, where I had fome
opennefs, and got through my fervice to
pretty good fatisfadion. From thence to
Coventry, and was at their paeetings on

firft-

JOHN GRIFFITH. 185

firft-day : in one v/hereof, 1 had clofe fearch-
ing labour; I was filent in the other. The
riLXt meeting was at Edington, which was
fmaii, and things but low. 1 went from,
thence to a marriage at South-Newton. I
found it my place there to fit the whole
meeting in filence. The earneft expectation
of people, efpecially on iiich occafions, may,
and I believe often does, obilrucl the cur-
rent of right miniftry. Silence, if duly
coniidered, may be the bell lellbn of in-
ilrudlion, for thofe whofe life is too much
in words or outward declarations. I have
thought fome amongft us are fo void of a
right underftanding, as to apprehend a kind
of neceffity for fomething to be done by
way of miniftry, at marriages, and funerals-
efpecially; it being hard for them to ap-
prehend, that they can be fo honourably
condudled without. I have therefore ob-
ferved fome, though but little concerned
in the general, to maintain our teftimonies
by an uniform confiftent deportment, appear
very zealous on thefe occafions; taking a
deal of pains, and riding many miles, and
fometimes from one preacher to another, to
make themfelves fure of having one; and
when they have been fo fuccefsfiil as to
prevail upon any to come, it would no
doubt be a grea.t difappointment, were they
wholly filent. In this fituation, the minifter
himfelf may, unlefs well-grounded, be ex-
pofed to temptation to gratify fuch. My

principal

i86 The JOURNAL of

principal view in this remark is, to fliew
how remote fuch are from the truth they
profefs, and how nearly allied to fome other
profeiTors of Chriftianity, who make re-
ligion chiefly confift in outward perform-
ances ; and think it not like a Chriftian
burial, when a corpfe is committed to the
earth without fomething faid over it. If
that over-anxioufnefs in the people, above
tinted, fhould prevail on the preachers
amongft us, to anfwer their cravings and
expeftations, both in attending, and when
there, in gratifying them with words, with-
out a due regard to the holy weight and
impreffions of the word of life, as the alone
moving caufe to public fervice, they would
be loft as to the living body in the fo-
cietyj and although fuch might continue
in a coniiftent form of found w^ords and-
found doflrine, as to the external appear-
ance, yet the fubftance being loft, their
performances would be no more than as
founding brafs, or a tinkling cymbal.
Some, to our forrow, have been obferved
to lofe ground by fuch means: what can
we imagine more offeafive to the gracious,
bountiful giver, than to proftitute fuch a
precious divine gift, by making it llibfer-
vient to the carnal unfancflified defires of
thofe who are ftrangers to God, yet love
tOL hear of him and his glorious adls, by
the hearing of the ear? From this place
I went to Huoknorton, and had a meeting ;

wiiereia

JOHN GRIFFITH. 187

wherein my bufinefs was to example with
lilence. I then v/ent to Sibtbrd, where I
had a meeting, and fome opennefs ; yet things
were but low. From thence to Banbury,
and attended their meetings on a fir ft- day.
I had open thorough fervice in them, and
the teftimony of trutii was in a good degree
exalted. Next day I went to South-Newton
again, where I had great opennefs, and truth
was comfortably in dominion. Much fatif-
fadlion is received by following the fafe
guidance and conduft thereof, whether in
heights or depths, fufFerings or rejoicings^
I h;id a good meeting next day at a place I
forgot the name of; and then to Adderbury,
where I had a meeting; things but low.
From thence to Bicefter, and had a fmall
poor meeting; there being but very few
under our profefTion, and but little to be
felt of the life of religion amongft them.
My face being now turned towards the ci::y
of London, I had a fmall meeting at Aylef^
bury, and fome open fervice therein to my
fatisfaclion. There are but few friends
thereabout. I went to their hrft-day meet-
ing at Jordans, wliicli was large: my fervice
therein, was to example the people, friends
and others, with iiience; w iich I believe
was a confiderable difappoinrmeat to many;
but I hope it was profitable to fome. Di-
vers friends from London met me there.

Aye lodge

:d thai

t night at a

friend's houfe on

ilic w^ay.

and

got to the

city

next day.

I

B b

continu!

zd

i88 The JOURNAL of

continued thereabout three weeks, vifiting
meetings diligently every day in the week,
except the laft, and one more. It, was a
very painful time of deep fuftering in fpirit,
even beyond all expreffion. I was as a lign
of iilence from place to place, efpecially
at Grace-Church-Street meeting; which,
doiibtlefs, was a great my fiery to many.
But it was my way to peace of mind, and
I fought after contentment, though it
might occafion me to be accounted a fool,
by the lofty towering fpirits in that city,
who may juftly be compared to the tall
cedars of Lebanon. I left London the 1 9th
of the loth month, 1749, to vifit the fol-
lowing meetings, viz. Hertford, and St.
Albans, where our friend Benjamin Kidd
met me, and accompanied me to Hemp-
fhead, Wickham, and the quarterly-meet-
ing at Oxford. The meeting there for
worfliip was excedingly diflurbed and hurt
by a rude company of fludents, who came
in like a flood, and allowed little or no
llillnefs, till by breaking up the meeting
they difperfed; by which means, we held
the meeting for difcipline and good order,
in a quiet peaceable manner. After meet-
ing I went to Witney ; where next day I
had a very painful exercifing time, not only
imder a fenfe of vmdue liberties prevailing,
but alfo of an exalted felf-righteous, felf-fuf-
iicient flate; than which, none are harder
t® be reached unto, or made any impreffion

upon :

JOHN GRIFFITH. 189

upon: my bufinefs was to fit in filent fuffer-
ing with the oppreffed feed. I went next
to Burford, where there feemed to me very
little of the life of religion. From thence
I went to Cirencefter, where my fpirit was
deeply diftrelfed, under a painful fenfe of
wrong things and wrong fpirits. The next
meeting I went to was Nailfworth, v/herc
I had clofe fearching labour, in teftimony
againft lukewarmnefs and undue liberties.
From thence to the quarterly- meeting for
Wiltfhire; being a ftranger and altogether
unexpedled by friends there, the clofe
fearching teftimony given me to bear, ef-
pecially relating to the ftate of fome aclive
members, might be better taken, and might
have more effe6t, than if the fame had conic
from one better acquainted v/ith their ftates.
I always coveted, to be wholly unacquaint-
ed with the ftates of meetings by outward
information, in all my travels; and when,
by the difcourfe of friends previous to my
attending them, there appeared any pro-
bability of their inadvertently opening in
my hearing, any thing of that kind, I have
generally either flopped them, or walked
away out of hearing; but in general, friends
who entertain us in our travels, have more
prudence, and a better guard in thefe re-
ipedls; as indeed all ought: for it ftrait-
ens, and may give mnch uneafmefs to right
fpirited minifters, who have a fure infal-
iibli^ gtiide within, and therefore have no

need

190 The journal of

need of any outward guide or information
in their iervices. After this meeting, I
vlfired the following meetings in that coun-
ty, viz. at the houfe of John Fry, in Sutton.
Cain, Chippenham, Mellliam, Corfliam,
Bradford, Lavingron, and Salifbary, and
found things moilly low, painful, and la-
borious to work through ; as thofe under
our profeffion appeared to me, in too gene-
ral a way, fatisfying themfelves with the
religion of their education only ; without
much experience in the life and virtue there-
of, operating upon their hearts. Some, it
is to be feared, undertaking to rule and
a(5l in the church without a proper qua-
lification, and fo do not therein feek the
honour that cometh from God only. Here
the equal balance a»nd ftandard is not kept
to ; partiallity gets place ; men and woman's
perfons are refpe(5led, becaufe of riches or
outward fubftance: true judgment is per-
verted ; wickednefs efcapes cenfure, to the
affeciing the wdiole community, as in the
cafe of Achan. Such things provoke the
Lord, (who is the only ftrength and defence
of his people) to withdraw. They then be-
come languid; their hearts become water,
and the inhabitants of the land prevail
againft them, till they are in the end made
dclblate. The next meetings I had were
Andovcr, Whitchurch, Bafingftoke, and
Alton ; having, through divine help, had
fome profitable fervice, tending to w^arn

and

JOHN GRIFFITH. 191

and excite friends to a more diligent and
careful difcharge of the feveral duties their
ftations required: but I could not help
viewing, with fbme painful reflexions, a
lukewarmnefs and declenfion which for-
rowfully prevails in many places. At Alton,
which is a large meeting, I found fome
folid weighty friends, to whom my fpirit
was nearly united ; having, in the main,
good fatisfadlion and opennefs amongft
them ; with fearching clofe fervice to the
unfaithful; in which I was favoured with
the comfortable help of upright fpirits,
whofe fincere travel is maintained for an in-
creafe of faithful labourers in the Lord's
vineyard and the reftoring of ancient
beauty.

Now did my deep And painful labours in
this vifit begin to wear off, and to draw
towards a period, as far as related to my
travels at this time, in Great-Britain and
Ireland. I therefore foon expec^led a full
difcharge, as I then faw little before me,
fave the city of London. I had meetings at
Godalming, Guilford, and Eflier, in my
way thither; in which I had fome fervice to
my own fatisfacftion, and I hope to the help
of friends.

I continued in the city fome time, vifit-
ing meetings with diligence. My mind
being deeply exercifed as ufual in a painful
travel, with and for the fuffering feed of
God in the hearts of profeflbrs, who to

me

192 The JOURNAL of

me appeared, in too general a way, living,
moving, acfling and breathing, in an airy
exalted region above it. I have often been
ready to fay, By whom fliall Jacob, the
true feed, arife ? for he is very finall in the
efteem and regard of profelTors of moft
ranks. Yet I could fee an afRicted fuffering
remnant, lie very low, as under the ruins,
panting, and, as it were, ftruggling for life.
And although we could fee, and knew one
another, and travelled together under a de-
gree of the fame painful feeling fenfe of
things; yet, not having it in our power to
relieve one another, our proper bufinefs was
to travel under our refpe(ftive burden, un-
til the Almighty Deliverer Avas pleafed to
appear, calling his fuffering ones to domi-
nion and rule with him, who is Lord of
Lords and King of Kings: for the Lamb
and his followers fhall have the vidlory;
-though they are permitted fometimes to fuf-
fer long. I had then, at times, faith to
believe he would raife the dry bones, and
they lliould (land upon their feet ; an army
to fight the Lord's battles ; to bring the
mighty from their feats, and to take the
crowns of fome who feemed to reign as
kings, from them; making their nakednefs
appear. Surely the complaints of the Lord,
by the mouth of his prophet concerning
Krael, was mournfully verified in the city
of London, refpetling a great part of the
ibciety, viz. ^' My people have committed

*' two

JOHN GRIFFITH. 193

«(

two great evils ; they have forfaken me
*' the fduntam of living w^aters, and hewn
" them out cifterns, broken cifterns that
" can hold no water." Such is a profeffion,
though of the truth itfelf, without the real
pofreifion. Such is truth in notion, fpecu-
iation, and imitation only. The fame
may be faid of whatever is done in religion,
without the immediate influence, direftion,
and leadings of the holy author's fpirit and
power. Sound dodlrine may be preached,
as to words and the main fcope thereof,
and true principles imbibed from education,
tuition, or other outward means; yet the
man's part being alive, adlive, and always
ready; the child's and fool's ftate, that
knows its fufficiency for every good word
and work to be immediately received from
God alone, is neither experienced nor abode
in. " For it is not you that fpeak, but the
*' fpirit of your Father that fpeaketh in you,
*' or by you." I fay, without this living fcnk
of things, all is but a broken ciilern ; it will
hold none of the water of life; which is the
real caufe, that the endeavours and feeming
zeal of fome for the promotion of religion,
are fo dry, infipid, and inefficacious. Truth
will carry its own evidence. The fpring of
aclion being the holy fpirit of Chrift,
it will gain the affent of all his children,
a'nd aniwerhis pure witnefs in the hearts of
the rebellious, f^ir beyond what many con-
ceive or imagine. Upon which I would

julfc

194 The JOURNAL of

juft obferve, that the only way to preferv^
the ftrength, glory, and dignity of a reli-
gious fociety, is for all who undertake to be
aclive in it, certainly to feel the Lord lead-
ing and direcfting them in all their fer-
vices; and, on the other hand, the fare
way to defolation is, when the aclive mem-
bers in religious things move therein by
the ftrength of human abilities only. A
great deal depends hereon, more than fome
are aware of; it is obfervable, that the pre-
fervation of the Jewifh church in purity,
much depended upon the governors and
rulers thereof; and fo does, and will, the
profperity and purity of the Chriftian
church.

I had very little opennefs in refpedl
to miniftry, but was lilent as ufual, from
meeting to meeting. Indeed, my fufFer-
ings in fpirit were exceeding great and
deep, day and night, in that city, fo that I
was weary of this life, and, as it were,
fought for death ; being at times ready to
fay, it is better for me to die than to live.
I much wondered why it fliould be i'o ; but
have fince fceUy it was in order for the fil-
ling up that meafure of the fufferings of
Chrift allotted to me, which I have feen
the great advantage of, with refpecfl to
giving dominion over thofe things and
fplrits, that were the caufe of thofe great
fufferings, which could not be ftood againft,
nor overcome any other way. For, as faith

the

JOHN GRIFFITH. 195

the apoftle, " If fo be we fuffer with Chrift,
" we fhall alfo reign with him." And our
Lord alfo faid, " Verily I fay unto you,
^' that ye which have followed me in the re-
*' generation ; when the Son of Man fnall fit
" in the throne of his glory, ye alfo ihall fit
*' upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve
*" tribes of Ifrael." I have fometimes
thought, as I believe it may, by the fore-
going account, appear to others, that i was
]ed in a manner Ibmewhat uncommon, to
fee and feel the forrovvful decleniion of our
fociety, in my travels through thefe na-
tions ; though I am very fenfible, divers
faithful brethren have fhared in the Hke
painful travail ; which, in fome degree, may
be compared with that of Nehemiah ; who,
under great anxiety and diftrefs of mind,
entered upon a long and hazardous journey,
and went in the night, to view the breaches
and defolations made in the city of the great
king, before he and the people arole hi
.the name of the Lord, to build the walls of
that city and to fet up the gates thereof.
For he found the hand of the Lord upon
him, naoving and ftrengthening him to feek
the good and profperity of his own people.
Theie things are written for encouragemeiit
„and inflruftion to the painful labourers in
the Lord's work; that they faint not under
the weight and exercife thereof; nor think
flrange concerning fuch fiery baptifms
and trials as they may meet with in the

C c courfe

196 The journal of

courfc of their travels. They may be well
afmred, that fuch things are all direcled
in wilclom; which, in the Lord's time,
will appear to their full fatisfadion and
comfort. For it is far from the foimtaja
of infinite kindnefs, to permit fuch heavy
afiriclion to fall upon his fervants un-
ncccifarily.

1 went from London into ElTex, in order
to viftc ibme meetings in that county, which
1 ]:'d not been at before, and was at
C'h: -niL-lord w^eek~day meeting on fifth-day^
where I had good fatistaflion. The virtue
oi" nwh being flied abroad, to the joy and
com for L- of the livirg. On the firft-day
fol[ovv'i]-ig I was at Cole heller meetings.
My mind was painfully depreffed, under a
lenie that truth fuffered much iirthat
place by wrong things: v/he?e evil is wink-
ed ar, and undue liberties in a religious
IbcieLV, are fullered to efcape judgment or
cenfare; weakneis, and, as it were a cloud
of diirls-ncfs, comes over meetings as well
as individuals. The Lord was gracioufly
\p]eaied for his bleffed name's fake, to
arill% and in Ibme good degree, to difpel-
the darknels; whereby truth and the tefti-
mony thereof, was exaltecl over all corrupt
uniiiiidificd fpirits ; and the few upright-
hcaitvxl were fweetly comforted; it being
a tiiiie of relief to their fpirits, in a good
'dtgiec, 1 went from thence to the follow-
ing meetings, vi/. Copford, Coin, Hal-

ftead,

JOHN GRIFFITH. 197

fleacl, and Braintree, wherein I had tho*
rough fcrvice, in plain dealing and clofe
labour with the unfaithful, of which num-
ber there feemed to be many; and but
few who had really bought the hleifed truth.
It is fuch only, who know how precious
and valuable it is, and who cannot eafily
be prevailed upon to fell it for a thing of
nought, nor even for any confideration
whatever. But it is not fo with thofe
who have their religion, if it may be fo
called, by education only, or derived as it
were, by way of inheritance like their outr
ward poiieffions, from their anceftors. The
principles of religion only thus received
and held, are often fubjecled to temporal
conveniency and worldly intereft. \Vhere
the world and true religion ftand in com-
petition with each other, fuch profelfors
will foon give place to the world ; wherein
they do really deny Chrift before men, and
will as certainly, milefs they repent, be
denied by him before the Father and his
holy angels. I returned out of Eflex to
London; for though I had had but little
opennefs as to miniftry there, yet I found
my mind engaged to attend their meet-
ings, as I apprehended, in order to fufferand
travail with the true feed, for its enlarge-
ment, as well as to be a figa and example
of the important duty of fijence, to the pro-
feCfors of truth. They had been long and
greatly favoured with living teftimonies,

even

igS The JOURNAL or

even line upon line, and precept upon pre-*
cept ; under all which, for want of a pro-
per application and improvement thereby,
the fociety declined, and the ancient beauty
thereof greatly faded away ; I mean, in
what relates to the life and fpirit of reli-
gion in the practical part thereof; for the
body of the fociety every where, as far as
ever appeared to me, are remarkably one in
faith and profeiiion, the fame which
hath been held and profefFed by us a^
a people, from the beginning. This won-
derful onenefs and agreement amongft us
every where, (which 1 have not obferved,
neither do I believe it is to be found amongfl
any other fet of Chrifiians, to that degree,)
is to me a clear evidence, that the original
foundation thereof, was the one infallible
fpirit of Jefus Chrift our Lord, who prayed
the father, that his followers might be one,
as the Father and the Son are one. And
notwithftandirg great numbers in our fo-
ciety are reiting fatisfied with an empty
profeffion, and by their unfaithfulnefs, fall
greatly Ihort of the dignity our worthy pre-
decefTors attained unto; which, conlidering
the abundant favours bellowed from time
to time, for the help and prefervation* of
the fociety, is caufe of deep mourning and
fore lamentation; yet, there has been,
through the kind providence of God, from
the beginning down to this time, a living
body, preferved the fame in faith and prac-

tice.5

JOtll^ GRIFFITH. 199

tice vv^ith our ancients. Thefe are fcatter-
ed and interfperfed throughout the whole
fbciety like the fait thereof, in order, if
poffible, that all may be feaibned. I think
there are very few if any meedngs, wholly
deftituce of fome of that fort; fo that I
would not have it underftood, by the fore-
going mournful complaints, (although there
may be jufl caufe for them) that I think
the fociety is become defolate, or that
the glory is departed therefrom: far be that
from me; I am fully convinced to the con^
trary, and at times have faith to believe,
the glory v/ill never wholly depart, nor
fhall we ceafe to be a living people: yet I
believe, numbers under our profeilion, for
their great unfaithfulnefs and unfruitful-
nefs, will be blowed upon by the Lord, and
rejedl^d, and others called into the vine-
yard, who will be more diligent and
faithful.

After I had continued fome time in the
city, apprehending myfelf nearly clear of
further fervice at this time in thefe na-
tions ^ and that I might with fafcty look
out for an opportunity of returning to my
outward habitation in America ; I therefore
applied to the brethren here, for a certifi-
cate of my travels, &c. which they readily
granted ; fetting forth their unity with my
fervices and demeanor under this weighty
engagement. But as no fuitable opportu-
uity appeared likely to prefent for fome

tim^

aoo T TT E JOURNAL o e

time, I had leifure to look into, and care-
fully to weigh an affair of great importance,
which had by this time fo far prevailed
on my attention, that I was afraid wholly
to rejecl it, as I had a confiderable time
done on its firft darting into my thoughts ;
looking upon it almoil impradicable :o be
brought about: which was, entering into
a married ftate with my endeared friend
Frances Wyatt, before^ inentioned. Al-
though I never had any other objection to
it, than our both being, as far as appeared
then to me, fettled in our places; from
which I thought it would be very uiifafe,
without the beft counfel, to re-iiove. But
that obje(5lion was wholly removed, by my
way opening (as I thought) with great ciear-
nefs, to fettle in England or; account of
ray future fervice. I was deeply concerned
in my mind to be rightly guided herein ;
which was anfwered lo indifputably clear
to my underftanding, that 1 could no longer
helitate about it. The next thing was,
fettling matters relative tliereunto with my
faid friend ; that fo, if fhe found no objec-
tion, our marriage might be accomplifned,
if providence permitted, after my returning-
home, fettling my affairs there, and remove-^
ing in order to fettle in this nation. J
therefore laid the whole before her, as
things relating thereunto had appealed to
me, defiring her folid confi deration thereof,
^d anfwer^ when flie was prepared to re-
turn

JOHN GRIFFIFH. 201

turn mc one. I found the fame powerful
hand which had removed my objeAions^
was at work in her mind to remove hers
alfo ; fo thaC fhe could not be eafy to put
a negative vipon the propolal, as believing
the thing was right, which was (till con-
firming to me, We therefore in the fear,
and, as we haJt caufe to believe, in the coun-
fel of God, engaged with each other, in the
relation we then flood, and to accomplifli
our marriage, when way fhould be made by
divine providence for the fame. We had no
view's on either fide for worldly advancement:
an anxioufnefs after which appeared to me
immaterial, as I was fully perfuaded we
were directed in our faid engagement, by
the wifdom and counfel of him, who can
give or take away outward bleffings at his
pleafure. I therefore had not freedom, pre-
vious to my engaging with her therein, to
make any inquiry into her circumitances
in the world. All which, however, with
the fuperior bleffing of an affeilionate wife
and true help-mate, I afterwards found
agreeable and comfortable. Having, as
above, paved the way to remove and fettle
in England, and a good opportunity .pre-
fenting of a fliip, in which feveral valuable
friends intended to embark; I went on
board the Speedwell, John Stevcnfon mafter,
at Gravefend, the 8th of the 3d month,
1750, in company with our friends Jonah
Thompfon and Mary Wefton, who were

going

202 The journal op

going on a religious vilit to the churches in
America. We had feveral friends on board,
and many other pafTcngers, being fourteen
or fifteen of us belonging to the cabin and
ftate rooms. Some of them were bad peo-
ple, whofe converfation proved very difa-
gret able to us ; fo that we fpent much of
cur time on the deck, night and day, except
when we took our reft in fleep. Our de-
parture was from the Start Point, the nth
in the evening, being the laft land feen by
us until we difeovered America. We had
a fine gale of wind down the Englifh chan-
nel, and a good fet off to fea by the fame ;
but we often had fcant, and fometimes con-
trary wunds afterwards, which made it ra-
ther a flow palTage, though much quicker
than fome have gone. The feventeenth of the
4th month, Vv^e found ourfelves on the
banks of Newfoundland, and in the midfl
of near twenty fail of French fliips w^ho
were fifhing there for cod. We fpoke wath
one of them, who told us w^e had about
twenty- five fathom water; whereupon the
captain ordered the fliip to be brought
to, that we might take fome frefia cod.
This vv^as very agreeable to us all; they
fucceeded fo well, that in about two hours,
there* lay upon the deck twenty-four of the
fineft cod fifli I ever faw. This proved an
agreeable feaft to us for about one week;
and altho' through mercy, we had very great
plenty of proviiions; yet this was an ac-
ceptably

^ JOHN GRIFFITH.

ceptable change. It was the jtb of the
5th month, about three o'clock in the after-
noon, when to our great joy we faw the
land of America; and by founding, found
ourfelves in about twenty-five fathom water,
and entered the Capes of Delaware that
night. We had a profperous gale up the
bay and river, fo that I landed at Chefter in
Pennfylvania, about eight miles from my
own houfe, on the 7th of the 5th month
about three o'clock in the afternoon, and
got home that night; having been on board
two months lacking one day, and from
'home in the whole journey, two years,
fcven months, and eight days; having tra-
velled in that time by fea and land, I think
on a moderate calculation, 11875 miles,
and^ w^as at abovit 560 meetings. 1 had be-
fore concluded, wdth divine permiffion, to
return in the fame fhip, and left a large
cheft of {lores on board. When difcharged
of her loading, fhe was to fail for Mary-
land, there to take in a cargo of tobacco,
where I intended meeting her ; it being
about feventy miles from my houfe. In a
day or two after my arrival I went to Phi-
ladelphia, where 1 found my friends gene-
rally much alarmed, with news brougnt by
le Iters in the Ihip I came over in (for they
had not heard it befoi^e) of my mtentioa
to return, to marry and fetile in Engl md.
Many, I believe, being ignorant of the
grounds and motives upon which i a fled
D d therein,

204 The JOURNAL or

therein, judged concerning the fame from the
ovitward appearance only; fuppofing that
having found one I hked, I had let my mind
out towards marrying, and made that the
principal inducement of my removing. Had
this been the cafe, I freely acknowledge
that 1 {liould have deferved blame; as aching
upon a very dangerous bottom to myfelf,
and fetting an unfafe example for others to
follow ; believing fome have fuftained great
lofs, by inadvertent fteps of this kind, in
their travels on truth's account. This was
what I greatly feared in relation to my-
felf, and therefore (as before hinted) durft
not give way to the thoughts of entangling
myfelf therein, until I had repeatedly (as
I thought at lead) received clear evidence J
in my mind, of its being my duty to re- ^
move into this nation for future fervice.
I do therefore earneflly caution all, to be
aware of taking any encouragement from
my example herein, unlefs they have the
fame evidence, and adl upon the fame bot-
tom as I did agreeable to what is above-
mentioned, and are well cJTured of divine
direction, as I was. That I was rightly
guided in my removal, has not only been
fully confirmed to myfelf fince, but, I am
perfuaded alfo, to many others : and even
at that time, thofe who v/ere free enough
to confer with me thereon, appeared to be
well fatisiied, whom for their freedom and
opennefs to me on that account, I looked

upon

JOHN GRIFFITH. 205

upon to be fome of my bcft friends ; and
as to others, I thought it my duty to bear
with patience and meeknefs all they were
pleafed to fay and conjecture, until time
made manifeil who were in the right.

I attended the yearly-meeting held at
Burlington, for Pennfylvania and the Jer-
feys, in the feventh month, wherein the
Lord was gracioufly pleaicd to overfiiadow
our large affemblies v^ith his heavenly
power and prefence, to our great comfort
and edification; having with joy to draw
water out of the wells of falvation, and to
offer the praife and humble thankfgiving to
the alone fountain thereof, who is for ever
worthy.

Having fettled my affairs, and obtained
a certificate of removal from the monthly
meeting of Darby, in Chefter county, in
Pennfylvania, to which I belonged, directed
to the monthly-meeting of Witham in
EfTex, Old England; myfelf and daughter
f^t out from my ov/n houfe in Darby aiore-
faid, accompanied by my lifter Mary (who
fince my wife's deceafe, had been my good
careful houfe-keeper) together with fevernl
friends, the 12th of the 8th month, 1750,
We travelled to Eafl Nottingham, b^ing
about fixceen miles from the place where
the' fliip lay in which I intended to em-
bark. My filter and one of the friends
ftaid v;ath us about a w.eek, and then took
their folenin kave. My daughter and I

ilaid

2o6 The JOURNAL oi

flaid thereabout until the 2d of the 9th
month. 1 viiited fome meetirgs in the
lie g ibourhood to good fatisfaclion, and
was at many in Eail Nottingham, it being a
very la g.^ meeting, and a zealous body of
friends t^ien belonged thereto; amongft
whom I had good fervice and great open-
neis ; the precious unity of the one fpirit
beirg livingly enjoyed, in which we took
a fokmn farewel of one another. The 2d
of the 9th month aforefaid we fet out, ac-
compamed by divers of our worthy friends,
and croiTed the great river Sufquehannah,
taking our quarters at Jacob Giles's houfe
within fight of the fliip; but were not or-
dered on board until the 8th. We did not
fail until the nth at noon. The unfkilful
pilot ran us a-ground twice that afternoon,
and caufed the poor failors hard labour
and much fatigue, .which I was forry for.
It was the 18th about two o'clock in the
afternoon, before we got clear of Chefapeak
bay; having then a fine wmd, we foon lofl
fight of land.

We had been at fea but about four days,
w^hen he efpied a fail or two, vv^ho, by their
motions, appeared very defirous to fpeak
v/ith us, Avhich, at lenglh, one of them
belonging to Rhode-Iiland effecled, inform-
ing us, they were reduced to a ve^-y fmall
quantity of provifions, and earnellly intreat-
ing the mailer to afford* them, fome affiltT
ance. He, to my grief and furprife, gave

them

JOHN GRIFFITH. 207

them a very fliort denial ; allegeing we
were but newly come out to fea, and did
not yet know what we might want our-
felves. I was very much troubled in my
mind at the hardnefs of his heart, and im-
mediately ftepped up to him, and in as
moving language as I was capable of, in-
terceded for the poor fufferers. The firft
mate being a man of a good difpofition,
joined with me herein. We at length fb
prevailed on the mafter, that he gave them,
liberty ..^0 hoifl out their boat, and come
on board us; telling them he would fee
what could be done for them ; which, poor
creatures, they gladly complied with ; the
mafter of the fhip and four of his failors,
being quickly on board of us. It was very
alFedling, to behold want fo confpicuous in
their faces, and to fee how greatly they re-
joiced, with thankfulnefs, that kind pro-
vidence had, in mercy, caft tis in their way,
for their relief; in which I coCild heartily
join with them; much rejoicing we had
not inhumanly turned them off vvithout
help. The mafter, (to give him his due,)
did at la ft hand to them pretty liberally ;
for which he charged what he thought pro-«
per, and took that mafter's draught for the
money, on his owner in London. I fpared
them fome out of my private ftore, for
which 1 wanted no other pay, than the
fatlsfadlion of relieving their great wants ;

being

2o8 The JOURNAL of

being very glad I had been inftrumental
thereunto.

The next day we had a great ftorm, and
an exceeding high fea, fo that we could
carry no fail, but faftened the heim and
let the ihlp drive witherlbever the wind
and waves would carry her: we were in-
deed mightily tofTed ; but through divine
favour, my mind was fweetly calm and
comfortable, feeling his living prefencc
who is God of the feas and the dry land,
to be near. My heart was filled with the
joy of his falvaticn, fo that I could fing
and make melody therein to him ; in which
I had confirming evidence, as I many times
had under the fame precious enjoyment,
both by fea and land after I left England,
that my way and undertaking was approved
of the Lord, and w^ould be blelTed and
profpered by him ; which yielded more com-
fort to my mind, than any thing in this
world could do. The fevereH part of the
ftorm lalled but about twelve hours; and
altho' we had two confiderable ftorms after-
wards, yet for the moft part, it was a ready
good paifage. On the 17th of the lotli month
in the morning, we founded, and in fixty-
nine fathom v/ater we found ground. The
fame morning about ten o'clock, we had the
very agreeable f ght of England. Next day,
the wind being againd us, we made but lit-
tle advantage of failing. The nineteenth
about eight o'clock at night, we came to

an

JOHN GRIFFITH. 209

au anchor in Falmouth harbour. Going on
lliore next day, we went to an inn in the
town. Oiir kind hofpi table friend Jofeph
Tregellis, came and invited us to his houfe^
where we had generous entertainment
whilft we were at that place. I was feve-
ral times at their meetings, both at Fal-
mouth and Penryn, and had opennefs and
good fatisfadlion. My worthy friends of
that town, Andrew Hingeflon and his wife,
and daughter, were afFedlionately kind to
me, which I cannot well avoid mentioning,
out of a grateful fenfe I retain thereof, as
we were entire fcrangers ; for I had not been
that way when in England before.

Having been detained there about a week,
we put out to fea again, in order to proceed
to London, whither we w^ere bound. The
- fecond-day of our being out, towards even-
f ing, as we were failing within about a league
and half of Dover, a boat from thence came
on board for letters. The wind then not
being fair to go up the River Thames, we
went with thern to Dover, and next day to
Gravefend, where croffing the water at
Grays in Eifex, I proceeded from thence to
Chelmsford.

My dear friend Frances V/yatt and I,
after proceeding according to the good
order of friends, accomplilhed our mar-
riage with each other, at a large meeting
of friends and others in Chehnsford meet-
ing-houfe, the 14th day of the then ift

month,

2IO Thk journal of

month, 1 750- 1, in the fwcet and fenfible en-
joyment of his prefence, who faw in the be-
ginning, it was not good for man to be,
alone; and therefore he did, in great kind-
nefs, provide an help-mate to be with him,
who was bone of his bone, and flefli of his
fleih. It is therefore faid, they fhall be
no more twain, but one flefli. The Lord
then joined the man and his wife together.
Happy would it have been for mankind,
had they never fought, nor found out any-
other way of joining in that relation fince.
But as the fons (or worfliippers) of the true
God, formerly looked upon the daughters
of men, with an eye that tendeth to prevert
this ordinance, making it only aniwer the
bafe ends of carnal delire; following the
dictates of their own evil heart, infl:ead of
the counfel of God, in this great undertak-
ing ; ib it is evidently the cafe at this
day with too many. It is alfo often not
fo much what the woman or man is, as
what worldly fubflance they have. Where
there is plenty of that, many real defedls,
with refpedl to thofe qualifications and en-
dowments eflfehtial to real happinefs ivx a
married flate, are over- looked. Thus, oy
man's ignorantly and prefumptuoully taking
upon him the guidance and government of
himfelf, infligated thereunto by the fubtilty
of Satan; thofe outward accomodations,
which were by divine providence intended
as bleilings, become quite the reverfe. To

prevent

JOHN GRIFFITH. 211

prevent fucli unhappy confequences to young
people and others, I know of no advice bet-
ter adapted for their fafety and prefervation,
than that of our Lord's, viz. " Seek ye firll
'' the kingdonn of God, and his righteouf-
*^ nefs, and all thefe things fhall be added
*' unto you." Thofe who have happily, by
feeking, found this kingdom, and live
therein, which conlifteth in righteoufnels,
peace, and joy in the Holy Ghoft, have great
advantage, even in outward things, above
all others; as the bleffing of God, which
maketh truly rich, attends all their worldly
affairs. They enjoy what appertains to this
life with a proper relifh. '' BlelTed are the
*' meek, for they fliall inherit the earth,"
Mat. v. 5. As it is man's duty and fafety
to feek the Lord's counfel and bleffing ; fo
it is truly honourable amongfl: men : for
this, Jabez was faid to be more honourable
than his brethren; for he called on the God
of Ifrael, faying, " Oh, that thou wouldeil:
" blefs me indeed, and enhugj my coair,
** and that thine hand might be with me,
'' and that thou wonldefl keep me froin
^' evil, that it may not grieve me!" And
God granted him that which he requefled.
Let me conclude this oblervation with ten-
der advice and caution to all whom it may
concern, into whofe hands this may come,
to be avrare they do not fall into that dan-
gerous fhare of fuppofing, as marriage is
an outward affair, they need coaiult nothing

E e further

212 The journal of

further therein than their own inclination^
and their own reafon; it is faid, " Woe to
*' the rebellious children, that alk counfel,
*' but not of me, faith the Lord." And
Chrift is called, Wonderful, Counfellor, as
Vsrell as a miglity God. Now as marriage
is allowed to be the mod important affair
in this life, and may tend greatly either to
promote our happinefs or mifery in the
next; if we have no occafion to feek the
Lord's counfel herein, in what are we to
expecl or defire it? Abraham's fervant,
when he was only engaged about procure^
ing a wife for his younger mafter Ifaac, with
great earneftnefs fought the Lord's guidance
and blefling therein, and obtained it in a
rem.arkable manner. What (fay fome) are
we to look for, or to expecl a revelation in
fuch cafes? We muft defire the Lord to
guide and direct our fteps in this, and all
other affairs of confequence in relation to
this life, or we fhall certainly mifs our way.
But this we cannot clearly underftand, un-
til the man's part is reduced in us, and
we fee what we are without God, that we
may find occafion to pray without ceafing,
and in every thing to give thankst Then
the conflant cry will be, Guide me with
thy counfel. When this is, with great
iincerity, the flate of the mind, we cannot
mifs our way ; becaufe divine protedlion is
CYcr prcfent, although we do not always
fee it, no more' than the prophet's fervant

did.

JOHN GRIFFITH. 213

did, until his eyes were opened ^. The
great thing is, to have a fmgle eye, that
whatever we do, ' may be done to the glory
of God. When this is the cafe, we lay,
if this or that be not agreeable to thy will,

0 God, thou haft all power in thine hand ;
do thou, by thy over-ruling providence,
direcT: me according to thy bleffed will.
The Lord will keep fuch in all their ways,
and be their fure defence.

We fettled together after marriage, at
Chelmsford in the county of Eilex, where

1 enjoyed great fatisfadlion and comfort in
an afFeclionate wife. Yet fuch I found
the low and almoft defolate fituation of
our fociety in the faid county ; efpecially
in relation to good order and that difciplinc
eftabliflied amongft us, by the power, and
in the wifdom of truth, as a hedge to*de-
fend and preferve from hurtful thingSy/that
it gave me much painful concern of "mind.
The difference appearing fo very great, as I
had before reiided where difcipline in the
general was well maintained. I could not
difcover, either by their books or inqillry,
that the unfaithful or diforderly v/alkers
had (a few inftances excepted) been for
many years regularly dealt with, and their
mifcondudl cenfured, either by monthly or
quarterly meetings. I diligently attended
thofe meetings, but my fpiric,. v/as greatly
diitreired therein, as the members feemecl
to move and acl in another element (as I

may

214 The JOURNAL of

may fay) than that I had been accuftomed
to, in managing the weighty affairs of the
church. The firft thing of importance
that laid hold of my mind, as wanting to
be reformed, was rehiting to women's meet-
ings; there being no fuch held quarterly,
nor at but few of the monthly meetings ;
and where there was any thing of that nature
it was of little or no fervice, in the manner
then held. Having therefore the advices
and directions of the yearly-meeting, rela-
ting to women's meetings, I requefted li-
berty of the quarterly-meeting to read the
lame therein, wnich I did, making fuch
remarks thereon, as appeared to me then
jieceifary. At the fame time I propofed,
that the meeting fhould take that weighty
affair, of ellablilhing women's quarterly and
monthly meetings, agreeable to the repeat-
ed preffing advices of the yearly-meeting,
into Iblid confideration ; and if it was
thought proper, that a few friends might
be appointed to form fome general direc-
tions for the affiflance of our women friends,
pointing out to them (as for want of oppor-
tunity, they were pretty much ftrangers
thereunto) ho^ fuch meetings are to be
conduced, and the part of church difci-
pline that properly comes under their no-
tice, and requires the management of the
women. All which was agreed to, and
minuted. The propofed dirc6tions were pre-
pared by the friends appointed, brought to

th;

JOHN GRIFFITH, 215

die next quarterly-meeting, and there agreed
to. The women having previous notice,
withdrew at the clofe of the meeting of
worfhip, into an apartment, to receive
what we had to lay before them, and una-
nimoufly agreed thereunto. A quarterly
pieeting of women friends being then efta-
bliflied, preffing advice was fent by minute,
to monthly meetings, that they ftiouKi en-
courage and eftablilli women's meetings
amongft them alfo, which was complied
with. And although our women friends,
for want of being brought up by their an-
ceftors in the management of the difci-
pline, might be rather unexperienced at
firll, yet I am well afTured, this ftep tended
much to enlarge our meetings, and to make
them more lively ; opening the way of fin-
cere travellers to a fuller enjoyment of
fpiritual good, wherein alone is our ability
for every good word and work. Some few,
from a right fenfe of the importance of the
work, joined me in an earned labour for a
general reformation, and as we felt the
weight of things upon our minds, we gave
up to vifit monthly-meetings, to help the
weak, and to move forward the wheels
of difcipline, which, efpecially at the firft,
moved very heavily ; for although we had
many in the county under our profeilion,
yet few of them had their hand^ clean e-
nough to handle the afiairs of the church;
many being, as it were, crippled widi uiv-

faithfulnefs,

2i6 The JOURNAL of

faitiifulnefs, efpecially in their mean and
cowardly compliance with the anti-chrii-
tian demand of tyclies, and things of that
I nature, which of itfelf unfits for fervice
amoii^it us; for I never faw much, if any,
true living zeal for the caufe of God, in
thofe who have fallen into this defedlion.
Oh! the darknefs and caufe of tumbling it
has occafioned in this poor county, and in
other places where it hath prevailed. Wc
found ourfelves concerned, repeatedly to
vifit fuch in their families, labouring in
Chriftian love, to bring them into a kni^t
of the inconliitency of their condvict with
their profeffion therein ; which labour,
though prevalent with fome, hath been no
other wife fuccefsful in general, than the
difcharge of that duty, which one mem-
ber of a religious community owes to ano-
ther; and by bringing the judgment of
truth in fome degree *bver them, they be-
came more diftinguilhed from the faithful.
We had great peace in this labour, though
hard and unpleafant, as we found them
dark and difficult to be reached unto, a few
excepted. However, thcfe endeavours great-
ly tended to exalt truth's teftimony, for
which our worthy predecefFors deeply fuf-
fered. In procefs of time, through the
bleffed affiflance of our holy head, en-
gaging a fmall remnant to labour in the
monthly and quarterly-meetings for a re-
formation, good order hath been much pro-
moted.

JOHN GRIFFITH, 217

moted, and our Chriftian difcipline, in its
feveral branches, has been in a good degree
put in pradice; and fome came to under-
ftand, it is neceffary to receive wifdom and
flrength from God, for the maintaining
that work. So that although things, in
that refpecft, through the unfoundnefs and
lukewarmnefs of many profeflfors, are now-
low, yet the Lord continues to be gracious,
in affording us the bleffed affiftance of his
holy fpirit, both in our meetings for divine
worfhip, and thofe for difcipline ; whereby
fome are enabled in meeknefs to labour for
the maintaining his caufe, notwithftanding
the difcouragement they meet with, not only
from a view of the languid (late of the io-
ciety in general, but alfo from the brittle
jealous fpirits of fome. Having laboured
in our own county, according to ability
received of God (for without his divine affift-
ance, I have, by long experience, known
I could do nothing) I attended the yearly-
meetings in London as they fell in courfe,
therein to join with the fincere travellers
for Sion's profperity, in the important care
of truth's affairs throughout the world.
This weighty engagement coming more
upon fome of us than heretofore, as many
of the elders and faithful labourers were re-
moved to rheir reft. Our valuable friends
John Churchman and William Brov/n from
Pennfyivaaia, were at feveral of the firft
yearly- meetings after my fettling in this

nation.

2i8 The JOURNAL of

nation. They laboured in thefe nations^
in the fervice of truth, near four years,
having left affedlionate wives and children
for truth's fake. Such noble difinterefted
endeavours, without any view towards tem-
poral intereft, is a very great mydery to the
worldly wife. The above named friends
were great and good inftruments in the
Lord's hand, not only at the yearly- meet-
ings, but alfo in their travels up and down,
for the promotion of difcipline and good
order in the churches ; though not without
confiderable oppofition from fome, who,
under pretence of a(5ling for the* good of
the fociety, were in reality advocates for
undue liberty. Notwithflanding fome fuch
difficulties, the Lord hath greatly ftrength-
ened the hands of his pained ones for Sion's
welfare, and blelTed his work to the pro-
moting of good order, as the likelieil means
of reviving ancient beauty and comelinefs ;
there having been great ftirrings, and much
Jabour of late years, to bring the feveral
members of the fociety into the holy order
of the gofpel. May the Lord yet continue
the bleffing of wifdom and Urength, that
the work may be carried on, to the praife
of his worthy name and the prefervation
of his people, is the earneft prayer of my
foul J

I fet out the i6th of the 6th month, 1751,
intending to take fome meetings in my
way to the circular yearly-meeting fbr

the

JOHN GRIFFITH, 2i^

the weftern counties, to be held at Broomf^
grove in Worcefterlhire, and from thence
to vifit the meetings of friends in Wales,
I firft went to the burial of a friend at Steb-
bing, and proceeded through Walden, Cam-
bridge, and Huntingron, to Wellingbo-
rough in Northamptonlhire ; and attended
both their meetings on a firft-day ; having
clofe earneft labour, in a fenfe of great
dullnefs, and much infenfibility prevaihng
on many profeffors. My fpirit was greatly-
burdened therewith ; bitt the Lord was
pleafed to arife, and difpel the darknefs in
a good degree, giving me thorough fervice,
efpecially in the afternoon ; I hope not eafily
to be forgot. I went away greatly relieved^
and had a meeting at Coventry, which was
heavy and laborious, though I was, through
divine favour, enabled to wade through to
mine own eafe, in a good degree; I had a
good open meeting that evening at Nun-
Eaton; there being but one family of
friends in the town, but a large number of
others were at the meeting ; divers#of whom
feemed pretty much affedled with the tefti-
mony of truth. I had a clofe exerciiing
meeting the next day at Atherftone, where
things were very low, yet truth arofe and
opened do(5lrine for their help. I had a
meeting that evening at Polefworth, which
was open and comfortable. From thence
I went to Woolverhampton, 'where I had
a fmall meeting, things being very low^

F f . After

220 The JOUPvNAL of

After which I went to Colebrook Dale^
where I had a meeting, and clofe thorough
fervice, tending to ftir up friends to dih-
gence, as well as to encourage the upright-
hearted. I went from thence to Shrewf-
bury : the number of profelfors there was
very fmalj, and the Hfe of rchgion very
much- deprefTed, not only by the lukewarm-
nels of fbme, but alfo by a blafting, windy,
lifelefs mini (try, which they had long iat
under; doubtiefs, to the great uneafinefs
of the few fenfible amongft them. I had
a painful fenfe of the great hurt thereof
in that meeting, being concerned to fit the
v^hole meeting through in filence, I be-
lieve, as an example to friends, and rebuke
to that forward unfan6lified fpirit: the
fame foon after was made manifeft to both
friends and others, to be very corrupt, and
was defervedly teftified againfl by the
monthly-meeting. I have divers times, in
.my travels, perceived great hurt to the pro-
fperity of truth, by fuch unfancftified pre-
tenders to a divine commiffion, intruding
thqmfelves int6 the miniftry ; but always
have apprehended them a bad fort of people
to deal with by advice and caution, as th^y
are commonly very pofitive and felf- willed;
being Iddom, in this declined ftate of the
church, without a party, who had rather
have almoft any kind of miniftry than
filence; which makes it much more difficult
for thole who have a right fenfe of their

fpirits,

JOHN GRIFFITH. 221

fpirits, to bring the judgment of truth over
fuch; as thofe above-mentioned are apt 'to
fcreen them, and cover their heads, unlets
they manifefl themfeWes, w^hich hath in the
end frequently happened, by their being
guilty of fome mimoral condu6l. I went af-
ter meeting to vifit two friends, who had been
imprifoned there a confiderable time for
refuling to pay tythes. As foon as I had
entered the place of their confinement, I
feniibly felt the Son of peace was there. My
mind being brought into great nearnefs,
unity, and- Chriftian fympathy with them
in their fuifering ftate, which 'they appear-
ed to bear witii chearfulnefs, and true re-
fignation to the divine will. The fenfc of
the great importance of that teffimony they
"were concerned to maintain, by fuflering
for it, and what our worthy predeceiTors
we jt through, in nafty (linking prifons and
dungeons, where many of them ended their
days in fupport thereof, who may be very
juttly numbered amongft the faithful mar-
tyrs of Jefus Chrift, overcame my mind
with tendernefs to that degree, that I could
not prefently difcourfe with them about
their fufFerings. We had a blefTed oppor-
tunity together, and took our leave of each
other, in' the fweet enjoyment of the pure
love of God. Oh, how much more joyous
and refrefliing it- is to viht fuch faithful
fufferers, than to vifit carnal profelFors of
the fame truth, who violate that precious

tcftimonyj

%zz The JOURNAL of

teftimony, by voluntary putting into the
priefts mouths, left they ihould prepare
war againft them, making religion bow
down to their fuppofed temporal' intereft,
thereby not only declaring themfelves mere
pretenders thereunto, but alfo increafing the
Juiterings of thofe under the lame profeffion
wno dare not temporise! I returned from
thence to Colebrook Dale, where I had a hard
trying meeting held in filence ; and went
to Bumingham, where 1 had divers times
been beiore, and generally had painful la*
borious meetings ; but now it pleafed divine
goodnefs to favour with opennefs and good
auri.ority, to declare the truth largely; I
beheve to the Itirring up of the carelefs, at
leaft to a prefent lenfe of their duties ; as
well as to the comfort and edification of the
honelt-hearted, to my own peace and great
relief. From this place I went to Broomf-
grove, in order to attend the yearly-meet-
ing before- mentioned, which begail on firft-
day, the ift of the 7th month, being held
in a barn, fitted up by friends for that pur-
pofe: it ended the third-day following;
many miniltring friends attended it, fome
of whom were largely opened by the power
and wifdom of truth, to publilh the gof-
pel tidings with clearnefs and good demon-
"ftration. The people, though numerous,
biding generally very ftill and attentive,
appeared to receive the teftimony of truth
with pleafure, and things were in the main

well

JOHN GRIFFITH. 223

well condudled. Here my friend John
Bradford joined me as a companion. We
had a large meeting at Worceller on fourth-
day, in v\liich truth had comfortable domi-
nion, efpecially near the concluiion, to the
great fatisfadlion and joy of many hearts.
Blelfed be the Lord our God, for his con-
tinued favours to his people ! On the iifth-
day we had a fmall poor meeting at Broom-
yard in HerefordlTiire ; things being very
low in that place, as to truth and friends.
On fixth-day we had a meeting at Leomin-
fter; the fore part was very cloudy and
painful, yet by the gracious fpringing up
of light and life, I got through my fervice
therein to good fatisfac5lion. The next day,
being the feventh of the week, I went to
my dear mother's in Radnorfliire. On
firft-day, the neighbours being apprized of
my being come, flocked to the Pales meet-
ing in abundance. The Lord was pleafed
to favour me with a large open time, to
declare his everlafting truth amongft them,
with which they appeared to be much af-
feded. I had fuch another opportunity
with friends and many others, at Talcoyd,
near my mother's houfe. They feemed
greatly afFedled with the virtue of truth;
but I doubt they flumble at the crofs. On
fecond-day we had a meeting at a place cal-
led the Coom, about fix miles from my
mother's, pretty open and comfortable.
On fourth-day, the i ith, I took leave of my

worthy

224 The JOURNAL of

worthy affectionate mother, relations and
friends thereabout, having my brother Ben-
jamin for our guide over the bleak moun-
tanis into Carojganfliire. The wind blew
hard and it rained, but through mercy we
received very licde harm thereby. Next
day we had a linall poor meeting at one
Evans's^ religion being at a very low ebb
in that place; my chief bufinefs, as far as
I could iee, was to detedl a vile impoilor,
who had, by a feigned and hypocritical
Ihew, got the advantage of the weaknefs
and credulity of friends there. I never had
feen him before, that I know of, but my
fpirit was exceedingly burdened ' with his
deceitful groanings and feigned ag-tation
in the meeting, and was then fatisiied his
fpirit was very foul and corrupt, as it was
like a nuifance to me all the time. I warn-
ed friends to be aware of him ; and to keep
him at a dillance; but they feemed willnig
to hope that there was fome good in him,
as he appeared fo much concerned in meet-
ings, &c, fo I faw whereabout they who
pleaded thus were themfelves, as they
feemed taken with, and rather to approve
of what was fo very offeniive and even
odious to me in that meeting, viz. his
pretended exercife therein. But if people
will lay hold fuddenly on fuch, they mufl
partake with them in their fins ; for this
mail difcovered himfelf to be very bad, by
being guilty of grois wickednefs, I think

the

JOHN GRIFFITH. 225

the meeting was held m filence. After
which, we went to a place called Penbank
in Carmarthenfhire, where a meeting was
held next day to pretty good fatisfaftion,
being favoured with matter and utterance
for their help; though things appeared low;
the fame day in the evening I had a very
poor afilicting meeting at Penplace; great
llacknefs and weaknefs appeared in the few
proferfbrs there. We were quite filent as
to public miniflry., ' We went from thence
to Carmarthen, and attended their meet-
ings on a firft-day; had good open fervice
therein, efpecialiy in the afternoon, many
of the neighbours coming in : the teftimony
of truth went forth freely and largely a-
mongft them, with which they appeared to
be much reached and affecfted; and might,
I hope, tend to remove a prejudice they had
imbibed, from the mifcondu6l of one or
more, of high pretenfions lately in that
place, but then removed. We had a meet-
ing on fecond-day in the evening, at Laugh-
arn, where very few, if any, properly of
our fociety, refided; many of the neigh-
bours came in; we had a good opportunity
amongft them, in the free extendings of
gofpel love; the dodlrine whereof feemed to
have a confiderable reach upon them. On
third-day we had a meeting amongft a few
profeffbrs at James-town; it being -their
harvell time, they feemed more concerned
about their corn than religion; feveral rufli-

ing

226 The JOURNAL of

ing out, in a diforderly manner, to take
care of that, as there was feme appearance
of rain. It was with much difficulty we
procured a guide to Haverfordweft. At
length we prevailed on a young woman,
who feemed to have the moft lively fenie of
religion of any amongft them. Having a
large ferry to crofs over Milford Haven, by
fuch diiEculties we were fo hindered, as
not to reach the aforefaid place, until about
an hour after the time appointed for the
meeting, to our great uneafinefs. This
meeting was, for the moft part, held in
filence; yet near the conclufion, I had fome
things given me to deliver, with confidera-
ble weight and gofpel authority. I went
next to Redftone, where the meeting was
fmall, yet open and comfortable. From
thence we travelled to Carmarthen, and next
day to Swanfey, about thirty miles, being
a very rough open road; the day very
ftormy, fo that we were exceedingly wet.
Great care was taken of us, when we got
to our friend Paul Bevan's houfe, fo that,
through mercy, we received but very little
harm. On firft-day, being the 2 2d, we
attended their meetings : that in the fore-
noon was held in a lilent labour. In the
afternoon I had a clofe fearching teftimony
to bear, tending to ftlr up and roufe friends
to more zeal and fervor of mind; and was
favoured to get through to fatisfaclion.
On third-day we had a poor fmall meet-
ing

JOHN GRIFFITH. 227

fng amongft a few friends at Freeveraque.
I had nothing to admuiifter, but an example
offilence. We went after meeting to Pon-
typool, and next day had a precious open
meeting there. The teftimony of trach
going forth with good authority and clear-
nefs, was exaked, and the upright in heart
Were fweetly comforted in the enjoyment
of the Lord's prefence, returning him the
praife, who is worthy forever! On fixth-
day, the 27th, we croffed the Severn at the
New-PaflTage, and went that night to the
widow Young's at Earthcott; had a hard
trying meeting there next day ; after which
we went to Briftol, and on firft-day the
29th, we attended three meetings there;
the two firfl were held in a painful dillref-
fing filence, and the laft alfo, except a few
words near the breaking up of the meet-
ing. This was the firfl of my vifiting that
city, and a time not eafily to be forgot by
me. It was indeed a feaiba of fore mourn-
ing and lamentation, in a fenfe of their
great declenfion. But very little to be {cen
or felt of that plainnefs, pure fimplicity,
humility, and contempt of the world, fo
confpicuous in their wortliy predeceilbrs,
who tramj»led upon the glory of this world,
counting all as drofs and dang, in compa-
riibn of the liniles of the Lord's counte-
nance, and being cloaihcd with the beauti-
ful garment of his falvation. Oh, how vi^as
the choi^ell vine planteci, made to fpread,
G g and

228 The JOURNAL of

and mightily to profper, through great
Ihfferings and perfecntion, in that city, in
early times; futlkiently, one would think,
to have deeply eftabliflied the permanency
thereof, and to have recommended its fu-
perior dignity and excellency to many ge-
nerations! May not that of the apoftle to
the Galatians, be juftly applied to them r
viz. " O fooiifli Galatians! who hath be-
*' v^itched you, that you fliould not obey
*' the truth? Before whofe eyes Jefus Chrift
*' hath been evidently fet forth, &c. Are
*' ye fo foolifh, having begun in the fpirit,
'' are ye now made perfect by the flefh?'*
I parted with my companion at Briftol,
!and turned my face homewards, taking
meetings in my way to London, at French-
hay, Corfliam, Chippenham, Cain, and Read-
ing; in all which I, had confiderable open-
nels, largely, and with good authority, to
publifli the docftrine of truth, to mine own
peace, and I hope to the comfort and help
of many ; though in fome places my fpirit
was much pained with a {Qn{h of prevail-
ing indifference and lukewarmnefs, in this
day of eafe and outward plenty; On feventh-
day, the 5th of the 8th month, I got to
London, and (laid their meetings on firft-
day. After which I returned home, and
found my dear wife and family well, to
our mutuiil comfort; being thankful to the
kind hand of providence, whofe o;oodnefs
attends thole who truft in him, both in

heights

JOHN GRIFFITH. 229

heights and depths ; takuig care of their
bodies, fouls, and thofe oat ward benefits he
hath bountifully favoured them with; af-
fording real comfort therein, witli his blef-
fing, which maketh truly rich, and adds
no forrow with it. I was out this journey
about eight weeks, and travelled about 740
miles, having been at about forty meetings.

I have preferved very little or no account
of fhort journies and fervice in this and
the adjacent counties; in which, however,
I was divers times engaged to labour, both
at quarterly and other meetings, for the re-
viving ancient zeal and diligence. But, alas!
the inordinate love of worldly enjoyments,
good in themfelves, covers the minds of
many profeflbrs, like thick clay, who are
exceeding hard to be made fenfible of the
chiefeft good, fo that I have often feared
fome of them will not hear, until the
Lord is provoked to fpeak, with a louder
voice, in judgment, which they will not-
be able to tarn afide from, or any way to fliun.
Many in our fociety, as in others, having
departed from the life, reft fitisfied in a
profefTion of religion: fome alfo have de-
parted from the power and form too, in a
great degree; neither appearing one thing
nor another. Could they fee themfelves
as judicious perfons fee them, (liame and
confufion of face would cover them.

The next confiderable journey I have any
account of, was entered upon the 27th of

the

230 The JOURNAL OP

tlie 8th month, 1753, in order to vifit
friencis in fome parts of YorklTiire, Lanca-
illire, Weftmoreiand, &c. I nriet fome
fr e ids at Wakien, who with myfelf were
a;) pointed by the quarterly-meeting to vific
t )at monthly meeting for their help. I
vas largely opened in the meeting of wor-
fliip, . to fet forth the beauty, order, and
excellent harmony of the feveral members
in the church of Chrift ; and. truth had
confiderable dominion therein, to our great;
comfort, as it prepared our fpirits for clofe
and painful labour with wrong fpirits in the
meeting of bulinefs, who had the boldnefs
to plead the payment of tythes to be juf^
tifiable, becaufe required by the laws of
the land; not confidering the grofs abfur-
dity of making human laws to be preferred
before the laws of Chrift, however contrary
thereto, and enjoined as an abiblute rule for
Chriftians; unlefs they fuppofe it impoffi-
ble that any human laws can be made con-
trary to Chrift's laws, which is equally abfurd;
as well as that fuch an opinion tends to invali-
date the great lufferings, and martyrdom of
all thofe, who gave up every thing they had
in this world, and even their lives, rather
than a'dlively comply with the laws of the
land, when they believed them inconfiftent
with the nature of Chriftianity, and therefore
a tranigreiiiou of God's law. But the ground
of that milapprchenfion, which fuch reafon-
ers i'lill into, appears to be upon a pre-

fumption,

I

JOHN GRIFFITH. 231

fumption, that the fource of property is
in the law, viz. that the laws of the land
can alienate the right of one, without ren-
dering him any equivalent, and give it to
another, who had no right therein before:
whereas right and wrong are immutable,
and cannot be altered by human laws,
which only grant people aid to preferve
and recover that which of right appears to
belong to them ; fo that human laws cannot
bind the confciences, any further than they
are confident with the laws of God. When
a fincere Chriftian is perfuaded they enjoin
any thing contrary to the perfecfl law of
liberty in his own mind, he may not ac-
tively refill:, but pafTively fufiTer the penalty
thereof, whereby he faithfully bears his
teftimony againfl the iniquity of fuch a
law, and fo far contributes to have it
removed. Now paying tythes under the
gofpel, being an antichriilian, popifli error,
the laws enjoining their payment being
grounded upon a fuppofition, that they are
due to God and holy church ; how then
can atiy clearly enlightened perfon pay them
in any Ihape, as he thereby alTents to that
great error, and contributes to fapport it,
to the great fcandal and abufe of the Chrif-
tian religion, and that noble, free, difin-
tereited miniitry, inllituted by our Lord
and Saviour Jefus Chrift; whofe direftion
in that cafe is, *^ Freely ye have received,
" freely give?" Much more might be faid

to

232 The JOURNAL of

to manifeft the abfardity of fuch a plea for
the payment of tythes ; but that I would
not be -tedious, hoping there are not many
amongil us fo blinded by the God of this
world, as to adopt fuch an argument.
Truth prevailed in the meeting, and the
teftirnony thereof was exalted over all fuch
fpirits. Praifes to our God for his gracious .
alliftance, mercifully afforded to all thofe
■who put their truft in him alone ! I pro-
ceeded on my journey, and had meetings
at Godmanchefter, Oakham, and Leicefter;
I had clofe fearching labour, in order that
carelefs, lukewarm profeffors might be ftir-
red up, and awakened to a fenfe of their
ftates. The teftirnony of truth alfo, flow-
ing forth at times, as a refreftiing ftream of
encouragement to the mourners in Sion,
and fincere travellers thitherwards. From
thence I went to Nottingham, and had a
meeting; the Lord graciouily favouring
with wifdom and utterance, to divide the
word aright to the ieveral ftates of thofe
prefent. Truth greatly prevailed, overfha-
dowing the meeting to the rejoicing of tnany
hearts. Next day 1 had a fmall meeting
at Furnefs in Derbyftiire, wherein I had
clofe labour with indolent profeffors, who,
negledling their own proper bufinefs, were
too much depending upon the labours of
others, to their great lofs, as well as, that
fuch unwarrantable dependance greatly tend-
ed to load and deprefs the life in thofe con-
cerned,

JOHN GRIFFITH. 233

cerned, making their exercifes much the
greater. The next meeting I had was at
Matlock, which was large; the greateft
part were people of other perfuafions ; it
was, through the blefled eflicacy of the
word of life, an open good time, and the
doctrines of truth were largely declared ;
ihewing, that the world by wifdom knows
not God, as well as how and to whom he
is pleafed to make himfelf known. The
meeting was generally pretty much affedled
with the virtue of truth, which was emi-
nently extended that day, and I hope would
not be eafily forgot by many. I went from
thence to SheiEeld, and attended their meet-
ings on firft-day, which were large. In the
morning my fpirit was deeply baptized into
painful fenfe of the empty formal ftate of
fome, as alfo the undue liberties of many
others. I was made willing and refigned
to go down into fufferings on their ac-
count; that if it pleafed the Lord, I
might be the better qualified to adminifter
effedually to their feveral ftates, as experi-
ence hath taught me repeatedly, that I could
not fpeak feelingly to mankind for their
help and recovery, any other way. x\t the
afternoon meeting I was largely concerned
to lay their feveral ftates open before them ;
it was a bleffed and feafonable opportunity,
tending much to their avv^akening to a {qpSq
of duty, and I think it may, with thank-
fulnefs, be faid, truth was oyer all. The

next

234 THiE JOURNAL oP

next meeting I had was at Highflats, which
was large, there being a numerous body
of plain friends, as to the outward appear-
ance, belonging thereunto. It was a labo-
rious meeting, bu.t through divine favour,
there was flrengdi afforded^ to lay before
them in a dole preffing manner, the great
danger of reding contented in a decent form
of religion without the life and power
thereof. I hope it was a profitable time to
many. I went from thence to Brighoufe
meeting, wherein matter and utterance were
given, tending to roufe the indolent, and
to encourage the truly concerned for truth's
profperity. The next meeting was at Rau-
den, which was very large and open, and the
teflimony of truth had great dominion. I
had a pretty open meeting next day at
Bradford; after which I went to vilit a
friend who was very low and weak in
body, few expedling her recovery. I felt
the pure virtue of the holy anointing with
her, and had it given mc to fignify, that I
did beUeve the Lord v;ould raife her up for
further fervice, which accordingly caine to
pafs. I went from thence to Leeds, and
attended their meetings on firft-day. In
the forenoon the teftimony of truth was
greatly exalted, in fetting forth the power
and efficacy of living faith : it was a glori-
ous time, truth being over all. In the
afternoon, it was thought feveral hundreds
attended, moftly of the people called metho-

dilts.

i

JOHN- GRIFFITH. 235

difts. I was quite fhut up as to minifliy,
I thought, in order to fet an example of the
important duty of filence to friends and
others. The meeting concluded with an
awful folemnity, which I hope was profit-
able to many. I went from thence to Skip-
ton, where the meeting was large, and the
power of God's eternal truth went forth
in a fearching awakening teftimony, as well
as in a refrefhing ftream of confolation to
thofe who flood in need of encouragement
in their travels towards the city of God.
I hope it was a profitable time to many. I
had a fmall meeting next day at Airton ; it
was a heavy painful time of filence in the
fore part ; but the Lord was pleafed to ap-
pear, and afford ability to fearch fome bar-
ren profeffors, by opening their ftates to
them, with which they feemed fomewhac
affected ; but alas ! how hard it is to reach
efFedlually unto thofe v/ho are fettled as
upon their lees, living in a ftate of mind
that can refl fatisfied in an empty profeffion.
Next day I had a pretty large meeting at
Settle: there I found the life of religion
much deprelTed with an earthly formal
fpirit ; but through divine goodnefs, truth
arofe and prevailed over it for the prefent,
and was exalted, as being the one thing
needful. I went from thence to J^otherf-
dale, where I had a very large meeting ;
the Lord enabling me, otherwife a poor
helplefs creature, to bear a thorough tefli-

H h mony.

236 The JOURNAL of

monv, fuited to the various ftates of thofe
prefent ; and his glorious name was exalted
above every name. From thence I went to
the houfe of my beloved friends Jonathan
and Margaret Raine, at Trawden ; whom,
for their tender regard to me when I want-
ed fuccour both for body and mind, I have
heretofore, more than once, had occafion
to make mention of; as likewife of the
Ecroyd's family. We greatly rejoiced in
the opportunity of one another's company
once more; truth having nearly united us
in our former acquaintance. I (laid there-
about fomething more than a week, attend-
ing feveral meetings there and at Marlden
Height; wherein, efpecially at fome of
them, the Lord was eminently with us,
opening the w^ells of faivation, that we
might drink together, and fmg praifes to
him the fountain of all good. I had great
opennefs in my fervice amongft them; and
we took our leave of one another in a fv/eet
fenfe of God's love uniting our hearts one
to another. On fecond-day, the firft of
the icth month, I fet out for Lancafter,
in order to be at their qtiarterly- meeting,
being accompanied by my friend Jonathan
Raine. I w^as at their monthly-meeting
there on third-day, where I had fome con-
(iderable fervice. Fourth-day in the morn-
ing was held their meeting of minifters and
elders; which was to comfort and edifica-
tion. 1 found myfelf concerned to fet forth

the

JOHN GRIFFITH. 237

die nature of true gofpel miniftry ; as alio,
to point out fome dangers which might, ,
without a fteady care and watchfuhiefs, at-
tend thofe excrcifed therein. It was, I
hope, a profitable opportunity to fome pre-
fpnt. The fame day was held the quarter-
ly-meeting, wherein the Lord was graci-
oufly pleafed, according to his wonted good-
nefs, to appear for the help of his fincerely
concerned labourers; as, bleffed be his wor-
thy name, he is found of thofe that truly
feek him, and doth not fail thofe who lean
upon him, and not to their own under^
Handing, nor to former experience of his
aflifting power and wifdom. Truth was great-
ly in dominion and friends much edified,
the unity of the one fpirit being livingly en-
joyed. I went next day, accompanied by
Samuel Fothergill, William Backhouie, and
William Dilworth, to the quarterly-meeting
at Kendal. The fele6l meeting for minifters
and elders was held that afcernooa ; I had
fome good open fervice therein, on the
nature of gofpel miniftry, and the myfteri-'
ous workings of Satan in his transforma-
tions. It was a time of edification and
comfort. Next day was held the quarterly-
meeting; in the fore part for worlhip, and
after for the difcipline of the church, w^here-
in I had fome fervice. Things were but
low : we had a large meeting in the even-
ing, both of friends and others; it was,
through the pure efficacy of divine virtue,
a blelfed oppoitunity. I was largely open-
ed

-38 The JOURNAL of

ed in teftimony concerning Chrift, the di*
vine light, which enhghtens every man
coming into the world. It ended in folemn
prayer and praifes to almighty God; our
friend Samuel Fothergill being engaged
therein, in a very powerful and afFecfting
manner* I ftaid at Kendal, to attend their
firft-day meetings; at both which, efpecial-
ly th^ latter, I was very largely opened
to declare the truth with power, which
affected and tendered many hearts, there
being a great number of friends, moftl/
cf -t younger fort, in that meeting ; it hav-
ing been itripped, like many other places
of late, of divers fubftantial elders. My
labour was very carneft, that the rifing
youth might come rightly under the yoke
of Chrift, that they might be really pre-
pared and fitted to fucceed thofe who are
removed hence, having fini£hed their day's
work. I went from thence, accompanied
by fcveral friends, and had a meeting at
Grayrigg, to good fatisfadlion. The tefti-
mony of truth went forth with clearnefs
and good demonftration, tending to awaken
the carelefs, as well as to flrengthen and
encourage the honeft-hearted. I returned
to Kendal, and went next day, accompa-
nied by many friends, to a general meeting
at Windermooi*. The Lord's blelTed power
was livingly felt in that meeting, whereby
I was enabled, from the exprcflions of our
Lord to Nicodemus, to Ihew the necef-

fitr

JOHN GRiFFiFH. 239

dty of regeneration or the new birth; ^
docflrine highly neceffary to be preflingly
recommended to the youth in our fociety,
and carefully weighed by them, left any
ihould vainly hope for an entrance into the
kingdom of God, by fucceeding their ancef-
tors in the profeffion and confeffion of the
^truth. A lamentable error! many I fear
-have fallen into, imagining they are God's
people, without his nature being brought
forth in them ; or, as faith the apoftle, being
made partakers of the divine nature, and
efcaping the corruptions that are in the
world through luft. Great opportunity
have fuch, by education, the writings of
our predecefFors, and alfo by the gofpel
niiniftry the Lord hath been pleafed to blefs
our fociety withal, to colledl and treafure
up a great deal of knowledge in the fpecu-
lative underftanding part, even to profefs
and Confefs the truth in the fame words
QT language made ufe of, by thofe who really
learned it in the fchool of Chrift. This is
no more than an image or picture of the
thing itfelf, without life or favour; there-
fore an abomination to the living God, and
his quickened people. I have touched the
more clofely on this head, being apprehen-
five the danger is very great, which the ri-
iing youth are expofed to, by dwelling fe-
curely and at eafe, as it were, in houfes
they have not built, and enjoying vineyards
they never , planted; for great are their ad-
vantages

240 The journal of

vantages abovfe others, if rightly improved ;
otherwife, this muft fncreafe the weight of
their condemnation. I have divers times
looked upon the mournful condition of thofe
who truft, as above hinted, in the religion
of their education, to be aptly fet forth in
the holy fcriptures, by an hungry man
dreaming that he eateth, and behold, when
he awaketh, his foul is empty. Oh, that
all may deeply and carefully ponder in their
hearts, what they have known in deed and
in truth, of the new birth, with the fore
labour and pangs thereof! 1 cannot conceive,
if they are ferious and confider the import-
ance of the cafe, but they will foon difco-
ver how it is with them in this refped:, by
obferving which way their minds are bent
and thoughts employed, whether towards
earthly or heavenly things. Thofe who
are born from above, or rifen with Chrift,
which is the fame thing, it is natural for
them to feek thofe things which are above ;
their affec^lions being fixed thereon. Soj
on the other hand, that which is born of
the flefh is but flefh, and can rife no high-
er than what appertains to this tranlitory
world; for flefh and blood cannot inherit
God's kingdom; and it is faid, thofe who
are in the flefh cannot pleaie God. The
apoftolick advice therefore, is to walk in the
fpirit; that is, let the fpirit of Chrifl be
your guide and direcfior, how to order your
lives and converfation in all things; for the

children

JOHN GRIFFITH, 241

children of God are led by his fpirit. I
hope to be excufed ii> dwelling a little on
this fubjecfl, having often greatly feared,
that the defcendants of the Lord's wor-
thies who were full of faith and good
works, fliould take their refk in the out-
fide of things, valuing themfelves on being
the offspring of fuch: a forrowful miftake
which the |evvs fell into! May all duly
confider, that it is impoffible to be the
children of Abraham, unlefs they do the
works of Abraham.

Truth was greatly in dominion thaC
day, and many hearts were much tendered
and contrited before the Lord; to whom
be everlafting praifes. Amen! The next
meeting was at the Height, where I had
clofe roufmg fervice, in order to awaken
carelefs formal profeiTors. The day follow-
ing I had a large meedng at Coltis, near
Hawkfliead; where I was favoured with
great opennefs upon the nature of true
faith, and that it muft be evidenced by good
works ; for faith, when only an alTent or
confent of the mind to principles of reli-
gion true in themfelves, being alone, is
dead, as a body is without the fpirit. The
power of truth had great dominion, it
being a time not eafily to be forgot. The
next day I had a meeting at Swarthmoor ;
there alfo I was led to fpeak largely of
faith, viz. of hiftorical faith, implicit faith,
and to fet forth the nature of that faith

which

242 The JOURNAL oy?

which was once delivered to the faints;
being their vidlory over the world ancj
all the corruptions thereof. It works by
love, to the purifying of the hearty and
when the heart is made pure, we can
thereby fee God, ** Bleffed are the pure
" in heart, faid Chrift, for they fhall fee
*' God." And his apoftle faid, '* By faith
" we come to fee him that is invifible." It
is plain from the holy fcripture, that it pro-
ceeds from a divine principle in man ; for
it is the evidence of things not feen, and
the fubftance of things hoped for. No man
can poffibly pleafe God without it. O that
mankind would carefully examine them-
felves, whether or no they be in this faith I
If they be in it, they cannot be ftrangers
to Chrift, inwardly revealed ; for he dwells
in the hearts of true believers by faith;
his kingdom being within, where all his
laws and ordinances are difcovered, clearly
underftood, and willingly obeyed. No
complaint, when this faith is received and
held in a pure confcience, of hard things
being required, or his commandments being
grievous; but a foul endued with this
powerful principle, can fay with fincerity,
the Lord's ways are ways of pleafantnefs,
and his paths are paths of peace. It was
a good time, and I hope profitable to
many. The next meeting I had was at
Prefton, near Kendal ; there I was carneft;-
ly concerned to ftir up friends to more

faithful-

JOHN GRIFFITH, 243

falthfulnefs and a clofer union one v/ith
another. It was a laborious time, but the
blefled truth prevailed and carried through,
to mine own eafe in a good degree. I
went from thence to Briggflats, near Sed-
burg. The meeting was large, and for fome
time heavy and afflicting; but it pleafed the
great Mailer of our aiTemblies to arife, with-
out whoie gracious help his poor inftru-
ments can do nothing to any good pur-
pofe. It was a folemn av/akening time; I
hope to be remembered by many. I had a
meeting next day at Ravenftondale, which was
a laborious trying time: my way was fhut
up as to miniftry ; friends feemed too much
at eafe in a profeffion. V/hen this is the
cafe, thxc life of religion is exceedingly de-
preiTed ; fo that thofe who feel its date,
muft fufFer therewith, until it pleafe the
Lord to, raife his pure feed, in judgment
againft evil in people's minds: then man
falls vnider for the prefent, and confeiTes to
that nam.e or power given under heaven for
his falvation. But alas ! he loon denies it
again, hj giving vv^ay to a contrary power;
an enemy to God and his own foul. In
fuch ups and downs, changes and conflicts,
by the working of contrary powers in their
minds, many weary out their days in vain,
becaufe they will not refolve to choofe the
good, and to efchew the evil, that they
might be eftabliflied upon the rock of ages
for ever. The next day I had another meet-

I i ing

244 The JOURNAL of

ing at Prefton ; it was a time of clofe la-
bour, yet through gracious help, I hope it
was a ferviceable meeting. I went from
thence to Yeoland; this was a fuffering
time, much of the teftimony given me then
to bear, went forth fharp againft fuch who
were ftrong and confident in profeffion,
without real experience of the living vir-
tue and holy efficacy of God's eternal
truth, to quicken and feafou their fpirits.
We find it very hard to gain any entrance
on fuch. The teftimony is often felt to
j'cbound, which in low times is a great dif-
couragement to the poor inftrument. Here
the faith and patience of the gofpel mufl
be exercifed. I underflood after nieeting,
that the flate of fome prefent had been re-
markably fpoken to that day, which tended
to humble my mind in thankfulnefs before
the Lord, for his gracious help and guid-
ance. After thefe exercifing paififul times,
doubts are apt to enter, and fears to pofTefs
the mind, lefl we have been miftaken in
what we apprehend the Lord required of
tis to deliver. (I fay us, as I do not doubt
but it has been the experience of many
others, as well as mine.) This ought to
be carefully guarded againft, left tlie poor
inftrument fmk thereby, below its fervice,
by giving away its ftren^th and fure de-
fence. The foul's armour and weapons
being thus imprudently given away or caft
pfJJ our fpirits are weaker than thofe of

others.

JOHN GRIFFITH. 2^15

<ithers, and confequently fall under them
Here that dominion, in which there is ;?-bi-
lity to teach, may be loft. There is great
danger aifo, on the other hand, of being
too confident and fecure, as I have obferved
fome, after they have darkened counfel by
a multitude of words without right knovv>-
ledge, and exceedingly burdened the liv-
ing, appear quite ehearful and full of fa-
tisfadlion, feeming as if thoroughly pleafed
themfelves: which ^? a lamentable blind-
jiefs, and difcovers them to be at a great
diftance from the di(5tatrs and holy impref-
fions of truth. This is what all ought
earneftly to pray they may be preferved
from, walking carefully in the middle path,
retaining a jealoufy over themfelves, with
a (ingle eye to God's honour, and the pro-
motion of his truth. Then will their feet
be fliod with the preparation of the gofpel
of peace, and will appear beautiful as iipou
the mountains. I went from Yeoland to
Lancafter, and attended their meetings on
firft-day, where I had good open fervice,
truth being comfortably in dominion, and
friends thereby nearly united one to ano-
ther. From Lancafter I went to the fol-
lowing meetings, Filde, Freklefton, Pref-
ton, Langtree, and Afhton. They were
generally fmall, and the life of religion at
a very low ebb. I was favoured with
ftrength to difcharge the fervice required,
in a clofe painful labour for their help and

recovery.

246 The JOURNAL or

recovery. But alas ! great is the declenfion
in thofe parts, and I fear but little laid to
heart. The next meeting I went to was
at Hartfliaw, being a general meetings
which was very large, and although fome-
thing heavy and painful in the fore part,
yet, through divine goodnefs, it proved a
iblemn ferviceable meeting, and by ftrength
and wifdom received from above, divers
weighty gofpel truths were delivered, to
the comfort and edification of many. I
had that evening a large meeting at War-
rington; but, as heretofore in the fame
place, I felt their life and dependance was
too much upon and after declarations. I
found it my duty to difappoint that fpirit^
by fitting the whole time in filence. 1 went
from thence to my valuable friends John
and JoHiua Toft's, near Leek in Stafford-
ihire, having Samuel Fothergill for com-
pany and guide. I had a ferviceable meet-
ing at Leek ; my labour was clofe in plain
dealing with fome, who appeared to me
too much exalted in their own wifdom
and conceit of themfelves, whereby the
fimplicity of the truth was too much over-
looked by them. On fifth-day, the ift of
the nth month, being accompanied by
Jofhua Toft, I went to Stafford, and had
a fmall poor meeting there. Next day in
the evening we had a meeting at Tamworth,
which was large, being chiefly made up
with the confiderable inhabitants of the

town.

JOHN GRIFFITH. 247

ILown. The public fervice thereof fell upon
my companion, with which I was well
pleafed, but found my mind not clear of
friends belonging to that meeting, and
therefore defired to have a meeting with
them next day, at a friend's houfe, as I was
defirous to have friends only. I had clofe
fearching fervice amongfl: them, yet to my
comfort and great relief in the end. On
firft-day, the 4th, I was at Birmingham
meetings; the forenoon was a good open
time, wherein the teftimony of truth was
exalted ; but the afternoon proved a heavy
painful meeting; my way was quite ihut
up as to miniftry. Now apprehending
myfelf difcharged from further fervice in
this journey, on fecond-day morning I ftt
my face homewards, and got to Northamp-
ton that night, and next day to Hitchin,
and got home on fourth-day, the 7th of the
nth month, finding my dear wife and fa-
mily well; being thankful, as we had great
caufe, to the fountain of all our mercies,
for his providential care over us, when
outwardly feparated for his fervice fake.
I was from home this journey, about ten
weeks and three days, in which time I travel-
led, by account, about 760 miles, and was at
about fifty-five meetings. In the year 1754,
I travelled v/ith my efteemed friend Johii
Churchman, through Hampfliire, the Ifle
of Wight, and part of Surry; the parti-
culars whereof I cannot at prefent find;

but

£48 The JOURNAL of

but I remember it was the laft of his travels
in this nation, and that we were -nearly
united in the fervice; the power and wif-
dom of truth being livingly and comfort-
ably with us, enabling us to labour with
diligence for the .promotion of truth, and
our own peace. In the fore part of the year
1756, being in company with' my efteemed
friend Peter Andrews from America,
fometimes vifiting meetings in the city of
London, I was feized with a violent diforder;
it was with confiderable difficulty I got
home, and foon took my chamber, where
I continued many weeks under great afflic-
tion of body, and alfo of mind at times,
which I have divers times experienced as a
further trial of my faith and patience.
The Lord has been pleafed to withdraw his
comforting enlivening prefence; I have
thought rather more fo in thofe times of
bodily afflidlions, than others; for wife
ends, bed known to himfelf. Oh! who
can underftand or conceive the anxiety of
the mind when this is the cafe, except
thofe who have felt the fame ? But, through
divine favour, it was not fo with me always,
efpecially in the laft of my great illnelTes,
which was the latter end of 1758, when the
joys of heaven fo opened upon my foul, as
I had never known before, which niade me
willing to hope that I was near entering into
the full fruition thereof. How ftrong were
my defires then to be diffolved, ^nd to be

with

JOHN GRIFFITH. 249

with Chrifl for ever ! Ready to fay, now let
thy fervant depart in peace, for mine eyes
have feen thy falvation ! but I was not then
accepted herein, neither was my mind after-
wards free from fome fears and doubts, that
I had offended a gracious God, by an over-
anxious defire to be removed from a mili-^
tant to a triumphant ftate. The example
of our Lord (though he was the only be-
gotton Son) in addreffmg the Father, is
highly worthy to be ever remem.bered by
us, in all our defires and prayers, viz.
*' Neverthelefs, not my will, but thine be
*' done!" The above hints may fall into the
hands of ibme poor aflflided perfons, to
whom they may afford comfort, by obferv-
ing, they are not quite fingular in their
trials, and from thence, through the divine
bleffings, receive fome encouragement:
which is my reafon for penning them, as well
as many other remarks in the courfe of this
journal; even on my mofl invv-ard and hid-
den trials. I have had great caufe to blefs
and praife the Lord, many times fnice,.
when I have obferved the great advantage
of thofe very pinching feafons of afBicflion,
how much they tend to refine, and to efta-
blifh the foul upon the rock of ages, yielding
the peaceable fruits of righteoulhcfs to thote
who. are properly exercifed thereby. I had
very little health from the time that I was
taken before-mentioned, for about tv/o
years; yet was enabled, in 1757, to vifit

friends

250 The JOURNAL #f

friends meetings in Kent, Suflex, and fom^
few meetings in Hampfhire, &c. I fet
out from home the 12th of the 7th month,
and crolTed the River Thames at Gravefend,
where by appointment I met my friend
Jofeph Taylor, and with him Jofeph Wood,
and Stephen Jackfon, all from London.
V/e went that afternoon to Rochefter, where
about fix in the evening we had a meeting,
there being a meeting-houfe ; though I
think but one perfon (then) a young woman,
who made profelFion with us. Many others
came, and there was an opennefs to declare
the doctrines of truth largely amongft them,
which I hope was not altogether in vain.
From thence we all went to Canterbury,
except Stephen Jackfon, who returned
home. We had a meeting there, made up
chiefly of profeflTors with us. The tefti-
mony of truth went forth in a clofe fearch-
ing manner, and, through m.ercy, it was
exalted over all of a contrary nature. The
Lord had the praife, and his fmcere follow-
ers fatisfaftion and comfort. We had
a meeting next at a place called Burching-
ton, where there was a meeting-houfe,
but none of our ibciety living in that place;
the people filled the houfe, and a pretty
many out of doors ; they appeared, in gene-
ral, a low ignorant people ; yet the Lord,
with whom there is no refpect of perfons,
opened the dodrines of the gofpel largely,
and in a reaching affedling manner, by

which

JOHN GRIFFITH. 255

which many feemed to be tendered. Next
day we had a meeting at Drapers, near
Margate, which was frnall, and things
low as to the Hfe of religion. In a very
fmall meeting in the evening at Deal, I
had fome dole fervice; after which,
one perfon gave me fufficient caufe to fee
there was need of it. The next meeting
Was at Dover, being on feventh-day in the
evening, as 1 was defirous of being at Folk-
ftone on the day following Truth opened
dodlrine and counfel for their help and
edification, there being fome lately convin-
ced of our principles, who appeared tender
and hopeful. I hid good fatisfadliou
amongft the few friends in that place. At
Folkflone the meetings were large, but the
life of religion mournfully low and borne
down, not only with thofe things com-
monly called undue liberties in many, but:
alfo, with the form of religion, without
the power of it in others. I had (as it were)
^ threlhing inftrument put into mine hands,
and was enabled to difcharge the fervice re-
quired, to my great eafe and relief; for my
fpirit was exceedingly loaded and bowed
down at that place. Oh f what pity it is,
that old profelfors, inftead of being as pil-
lars in the houfe of God, and as Aarons and
Hurs, bearing part of the Lord's great
work (fo happily and giorioufly begun in
the earth) fhould be a means of obftrudling
the fame, and by the carnality of their
K k fpirits.

352 The JOURNAL op

fpirits, burden and greatly deprefs the word
of life in the meffengers of Chrift, fent in
order to carry it on amongft mankind:
thereby rendering themfelves altogether un-
worthy to be named by his name, to taftc
of his dainties, or to live under this latter,
and as glorious a manifeftation of evangeli-
cal light and truth, as was ever extended to
inankind! Is not the great defign of the
Almighty obvious, in gathering us as a
people into his fold, to fit under his teach-
ings, and confequently under his glorious
Inanifeftation, fliowering upon us great
plenty of rain from above, and heavenly-
dew as upon Hermon's hills, viz. that we
might be as the garden of the Lord, full of
fruitful plants and fragrant flowers, fend-
ing forth a fweet fmell, yea, to be as a
fountain of gardens, and wells of living
water, and ftreams from the goodly beauti-
ful mountains of Lebanon : for it is writ-
ten, " Out of the belly of him that be-
*' lieves, fliall flow rivers of living water."
By which it plainly appears, that the Lord's
choien people are like conduits, channels,
or water- fpouts, to convey the water of
hfe into the wildernefs, that it may be-
come a fruitful field, and that the defart
land may come to rejoice, and blofTom as a
roic; alio into the fea, viz. amongfl the
nations, languages, tongues and people *",

to

^ Se^ Ezekiel aIvIv

JOHN G R I F F I T H. 253

to heal the fifties that are" in this fca, viz.
the backOiders and diliempered of mankind.
But oh, how flowly doth this work go oa!
And what a httle progrefs it hath yet made,
to what was expected by thofe valiants, who
firfl engaged againfl Babylon in the morn-
ing of our day, and made that kingdom
fiiake! But many under the fame profeffion
in this day, are turned againft the truth,
and at the fame time they pretend to main-
tain its caufe, they are fupportiug and
ftrengthening the kingdom of Babylon all
in their power, which is exceeding ftrangc
to think, and perhaps would not be believed
by hundreds that really are doing it. The
reafon is, they firft of all have tak n fome
draughts of the wine, out of the whore of
r Babylon's golden cup, whereby they are fo
' intoxicated, as not to know what they
are doing;* fo that, when they think they
are ferving God, they are ferving Satan,
-Were not the Jews drunk with this cup,
when they dreamed that God was their fa-
ther, and at the fame time were in reaUty
of their father the Devil, doing his works,
when they thought they vvere doing God's
works ? This w^oeful miftake has been, and
is almoft general amongfl: mankind. When
they fupprefs the meafure of grace in them-
felves, and drink a few draughts as above-
faid, they are then fit to follow antichrift
whitherfoever he will lead them; but he
will take care, no; to have much crofs to

the

254 The JOURNAL of

the will of the flelh in his religion, left they
fliould be tempted to leave him ; that being
the rery reafon of the violence they have of-
fered to the divine witneis, which formerly
rofe up againft them in their minds^ viz.
becaufe they faw if they followed that,
the crofs muft be taken up, and felf muft be
denied. At this they have ftumbled; and
although little fenfe is at prefent retained
thereof, by reafon of the intoxication before
mentioned, yet w'hen they are (iimmoned
before the judgment-feat of Chrift, and the
books come to be opened, all will then fee
things as they really are, which do not at
all change their natures, though, by a de-
fed in the capacity before defcribed they be
not fcen or under flood.

It is worthy to be remembered, and deep-*
ly pondered by great numbers in our fociety,
that it was the rebellion and unfaithfulnefs
of the children of Ifrael, that was the caufe
of their being turned back again into a
barren, doleful, howling wildernefs, when
near the borders of the land of promife.
They doubtlefs might have then entered,
fubdued the idolatrous inhabitants, and taken
full poffefTion thereof, had they believed m
and obeyed that mighty Jehovah, who with
an outflretched arm had brought them out
of the land of Egypt, dividing the Red Sea
in mercy to them, and for the deftruclion
of their enemies. But oh ! what a long
wildernefs they had afterwards, for about

the

JOHN GRIFFITH, 255

the fpace of thirty-eight years, until ail
that people had fallen, except Caleb and
Jolhua, men of upright hearts, whom the
Lord honoured with being the leaders of
an entire new people to poflefs the land.
Cannot the empty formal profeiTors amongft
us, who, under great pretenfions, have fuf^
iered a heart of unbelief, a rebellious heart,
that has departed from the living God, and
embraced this prefent world, read their own
condemnation in the before-mentioned ac-
count? Shall they ever enter into the hea-
venly Canaan ? or be accounted worthy to
carry on his glorious work in the earth?
No, verily; but they muft fall into great
condemnation, except they repent, and re-
deem their mif-fpent time, and another peo-
ple be raifed to maintain this glorious caufe,
to whom the Caleb's and Joihua's in our
Society will be as leaders and direcflors;
like Prifcillas and Aquilas, to expound unto
them (who enquire the way to Sion) the
way of the Lord more perfectly ; for I am
fully perfuaded, our fociety will not ceafe to
be a people, nor the glory ever depart there-
from wholly, as it did from the Jewifh, and
in a great degree the lapfed Chriftian church.
I have no doubt, but that a people will be
preferved from generation to generation, to
contend earneftly for the faith once delivered
to the faints, and to maintain the fame with
the dodlrine and principle refulting there-
from, fo eminently revived in our predecef-

fors.

^56 The JOURNAL of

fors, and moft furely believed by us. So
that when it Ihall pleafc the Lord to awa-
ken the -nations, there will be no occafion
to expedl new difcoveries, or other manifef-
tations, but the Lord will Ihew where he
feeds his flock, and where they lie down
at noon. 1 do not exped: the prefent le-
thargy, and almoll univerfal indifference of
all denominations of Ghriftians abaut reli-
gion, is to continue very long, for the
Lord's foul abhors it. I am fully perfuaded
he will arife in dreadful majefty, to Ihake
terribly the earth ; the power, wiidom, po-
licy, and fplendor thereof, and not only
the earth, but the heavens alfo, that he
may remove thofe things which can be
-fliaken, that thofe things that cannot be
fliaken may remain. Then fliall people fee
how empty and fruitlefs their religious pre-
tenlions have been. Then will their eyes
and cries be to the Lord, to fliew them the
pafture of the flock of his companions.
Then will mankind receive a kingdom
which cannot be fliaken. But, oh ! the
bitter cups that murt: be drank, and the
phials of God's wrath that mud be poured
upon nations and kingdoms, before mankind
m general will be humbled enough, to fub-
mit to the yoke of Chrift, and to learn of
him, who is meek and low in heart. But
he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and
can turn and overturn, until the inhabitants
of the earth are willing that he fliould

reigu

J O H N GRIFFITH. 257

reign whofe right it is; " for when the
*' judgments of the Lord are in the earth,
" the inhabitants of the world will learn
" righteouihefs."

Great and marvellous hath been the Lord's
condefcenfion and goodnefs, manifefted for
our help and prefervation many ways ; one
wliereof I cannot well omit a fliort remark
upon, viz. the reviving of ancient zeal for
the promotion of difcipline and good order,
which I find is almofl general throughout
the fociety, that fpirit of found judgment,
and the burning of that holy fire, which
the Lord doth kindle in the hearts of the
faithful, has never been wholly extin-
guifhed, fince we have been a people;
though in fome places, through the neg-
ledl of many, it h2.th burned rather faint
and languid. This has of late been
much augmented, and the number of thofe
;< who will not take bribes (that is, through
favour and affection pervert judgment) in-
creafed. I pray God, for his great name's
fake, and his people's prefervation, this
good work may prof per! Publick miniftry,
though a great bleffing, help, and comfort
to God's people, may be fliunned, evaded,
and turned off by individuals : but the
church cannot ealily lofe ground, under
a godly, impartial admrniflration of found
judgment, and dealing in the way of good
order and difcipline, as this brings judg-
ment hciTie; Thou art the man. Here in-
dividuals

S58 The JOURNAL oP

dividuals mufi condemn the evil, or be dif^
united from the body, that it may not bd
infedled or endangered by their defedlion,
I went from Folktlone to Maizam, wher6
I had a meeting, and fomc clofe fearching
labour, in order to awaken drowly lukewarm

?rofeirors. 1 had meetings alfo at Afhford,
enterden, and Cranbrooke, where I found
things exceeding low as to truth and friends,
and but very little of the fubftance, or even
form, to be met with. My fpirit was much
affecSled with forrow and mourning, in.
viewing the deplorable eftate of the fociety
in this county; yet I endeavoured with
patience to wade along in my fervice, and
to difcharge the duty required of me.

I then proceeded to vifit Sviflex. The firfl:
meeting I had in that county, was Gard-
ner-Street; I could find bvit very few, if
any, truly alive in religion there. I had
hard clofe work with the unfaithful, in fomc
important branches of our Chriftian tefti-
jnony, to which I was immediately led ; for
I knew nothing of their ftate by outward
information. I had meetings alfo at Lewes,
Brighthelmftone, • and Arundel. At all
which places, I found the life of religion
much depreffed. My fervice was clofe and
fearching; but alas! carnal profeflbrs are
very hard to be made fenlible of their de-
plorable condition. From Arundel I went
to Chicheiler, where I had a meeting, and.
good open fervice, not only to ftir up the

carelefs

JOHN GRIFFITH. 259

carelefs to more fervent labour, but alfo to
encourage and ftrengthen fome tender-^
hearted travellers Zion-wards. It was,
through the holy eihcacy of truth, a blef^
fed tune. I went from thence to AltoA,
in Hampfliire, and attended their firil-day
meeting. ^ There is a large body of friends,
amongll whom, the great Mafter of our
affembiies opened dodrine and counfel,
fuited to their feveral dates, and the bleiTed
truth was in great dominion that day.
The next meeting I had v/as at Godalming,
where I had very clofe heavy fervice, being
made fenfible of much indifference and
lukewarmnefs in fome profeflbrs. It was
often my lot to labour for the Itirring up
and reviving of fuch ; but alas ! it is hard
work, yet fufficiently rewarded by the com-
fortable returns of true peace, in a faithful
difcharge of duty. The next meeting I had
was at Staines, which was pretty open and
fatisfadlory : being iivingly engaged to ad-
minifler fuitably to the feveral flates of thofe
prefent. I went from thence to Uxbridge,
where I had open thorough fervice, to good
fatisfadlion. After which I went to High-
Wickham, and had a heavy laborious meet-
ing. The fame day I had an evening meet-
ing at Amerlham, in w^hich I had fome
fervice, though things were very low.
Next day I had a meeting at Jordans,
where the bleiTed truth had great domiuion,
and the teftiaiony thereof flowed forth

I-'l * freely,

26o The JOURNAL of

freely, in do6trine and counfel, for the help
and comfort of thofe prefent. After which
1 went to London, where I ftaid the firft-
day meetings over. I attended Grace-church-
Street in the morning, where I had good
fervice, and the teftimony of truth had great
dominion. I went to Devonfliire-Houle in
tiic afternoon, where I had alfb a good open
time, to declare the truth; finding much
eafc and peace of mind. The fervice of this
fmall journey being over, I returned home
the next day, having been out about four
wecks^ at 28 meetings, and travelled about
350 miles.

The next journey I have any account of,
was chiefly in order to viiit the quarterly-
meetings of Lincoln, York, Lancafter, and
Kendal. I fet out the 16th of the 6th
month, 175^), and, by appointment, met
Jofeph Taylor at Cambridge, who was to
be my companion as far as York. It being
iirft-day, we went to their meeting in the
morning, Vv^hich was very fmall, and things
exceeding low as to the life of religion.
We went in the afternoon about ten miles
to a general- meeting at a place called Over,
which was large, and I was largely opened
therein, in clofe awakening fervice,
tending to roufe carelefs profefTors, of
whom there feemed to be many at that
meeting. We proceeded after meeting as
far as Erith, and next day got to Spalding,
ia Lincolniliire, where we met our worthy

friend j^

JOHN GRIFFITH. 261

friend Mordecal Yarnall from America,
who was then on a religious vifit in this
nation, and Samuel Ncal from Ireland.
The 2otIi in the moaning we fet out for
Lincoln quarterly-meeting, which began
the next day about noon, and ended the day
following. Truth is at a low ebb in this
county, and the diicipline in the main but
poorly managed, and the conduft of cUvers
profeifors adminillers caufe of offence; yet
w^e were, through the extendings of mer-
ciful goodnefs, tavoured with coufiderable
opennefs, and pretty thorough iervice for
their help, and to our own eafe in a good
degiCQ, After this meeting was over, my
companion and I proceeded on our journey
towards York, taking Leed's firft-day meet-
ings in our way, which were large, very
heavy, and laborious. My proper bufineis
was to wade under a great weight, occa-
fioned by the indolent fpirits of thofe who
were unwilling to , labour and bear their
own burdens, in an example of filence.
Next morning was held their monthly-
meeting of miniflers and elders, where I
had clofe fervice; and the fame day that
for difcipline, which was exceeding large,
our fociety being very numerous thereabout.
The teftimony of truth was greatly exalted
therein, in treating concerning Chrift, the
everlafting Rock upon which the church is
built, whereupon only it can 'ftand firm,
againft all the attem.pts of a potent adverfary,

and

262 The journal of

and his emifTaries. Next day we went to York,
where the fame evening was hel'd the quar-
terly meeting of minifters and elders. I
had feme open fervice therein, particularly
to minifters. We were divinely favoured
in the fucceeding meetings, both for w^or-
fliip and difcipline, to our edification and
comfort. From York I went towards Ken-
dal, and was, in my way, at a yearly-
meeting held on a firlt-day, in a large barn
near Eingley ; where (it Vv^as thought) were
very near a thoufand people of other religi-
ous periuafions, befides many of our ownfo-
ciety. I was largely opened therein to
preach the everlafting gofpel, in the autho-
rity and demonllration thereof. The peo-
ple generally behaved in a fober becoming
manner, appearing well fatisfied, which is
too often the moll: we can fay in our day,
concerning fuch memorable opportunities 5
whereas, our predecelfors might have added,
perhaps^ that fcveral hundreds were con-
vinced. However, we muft content our-
felves with the ftate or condition of the
fields of the world, in our day: and al-
though WQ cannot lift up our eyes as they
could, to behold the fields white unto har-
veft, yet let there be honeft endeavours to
contribute all in our power, for the bring-
ing them forward in this relpeil, and leave
the reft to the Lord, in whole hands alone
are times and feafbns. I had a meeting at
SkipCpn that evening, to good fatisfadlion,

I went

JOHN GRIFFITH. 263

1 went from thence to Settle, and was at
their monthly-meeting, where I had good
fervice, and fo proceeded to Kendal, ac-*
€ompanled by divers friends. The fame
day was held the meeting of minifters and
elders, wherein our ancient worthy friend
James Wilfon, had excellent fervice, to our
great comfort and edification* Their quar-
terly-meeting of bufinefs was held next
day, wherein I had good fervice, in the
opening of gofpel life and power. A blef-
fed meeting it was. The Lord alone had
the praife, who is for ever worthy thereof!
I attended Kendal meetings the firft-day
following^ which were very large, and pre-
cious; the everlafting truth and its tefti-
mony, being exalted over all of cu contrary-
nature, to the great comfort of the up-
right in heart, I went, accompanied by
our friend James Wilfon, and many others^
to their general meeting at Prefton Patrick,
which was very large. My fervice therein
was clcfe, fearching, and laborious; not
only in a fenfe of great lukewarmnefs and
indifference in fopne, bvit alfo the heart-
burnings, difunion, and fecret fmitings one
againft another, of others. It feemed to
me, that fpirit had fubtilly prevailed on
fjme accounted of the foremofl rank, to
their own hurt, and the wounding of the
innocent life. My fpirit had been pain-
fully affedled with the fame fenfe of the
ftate of that meeting, in degree, in my

former

254 The JOURNAL of

former vifits to it; but never had fo much
power arxd comfortable dominion over the
fame, as at this time, wherein truth mightily
prevailed, to the fubduing, at leaft for the
prefent, all that was of a contrary nature.
Near the conclufion of the faid meeting, our
worthy ancient friend, before-mentioned,
publicly teftified, that the eternal truth
of God v/as over all, exhorting friends
highly to prize fuch blefTed opportunities,
and carefully to improve thereby.

In relating what has been done, in mar-
vellous kindnefs and condefcenfion, through
me a poor weak inftrument, towards the
help and reftoration of my fellow-mortals,
I do fincerely deiire, if any good is done,
the Lox'd only may have the praife, honour,
and glory; for he alone is worthy, and
nothing belongs to the creature, but hu-
mility, reverence, obedience, and laying the
mouth as in the duft. I would be io un-
derftood throughout the whole narrative,
though not always expreffed in words.

I went from Kendal to Lancafter. The
quarterly felecl meeting for minifters and
elders was firft held ; wherein our ancient
friend james Wilfon, before-mentioned,
bore a noble, evangelical teftimony, to the
inftruclion, edification, and great comfort of
friends. Next day was held their quarterly-
meeting for difcipline, in which, through
the efficacy of divine power, I had fome
open weighty fervice. I cannot well for-
bear

JOHN GRIFFITH, 165

bear remarking the great fatisfadlion and
pleafure I had at this meeting, in behold-
ing, and having the acceptable company of
three honourable, worthy, ancient friends,
viz. James Wilfon, Lydia Lancafter, and
Grace Chambers; who, I think, all bore
living and powerful teftimonies therein, in
a very affecling manner, to the holy efEcacy
of thateverlafting truth, which had been
with them all their life long. Oh ! it was
a time of much humbling encouragement,
to fee their greennefs and fruitfulnefs in
old age. I looked vipon them as patterns of
primitives-times and friends. There is fome-
thing wonderfully great and excellent, {hen
only by thofe eyes which the Lord hath
opened, in the native fimplicity of the truth,
and that eftate into which it gradually
brings a man, who, in a total denial of felf,
hath fully given up to be formed by it.
This I take to have been very much the cafe
with friends in the beginning, which ren-
dered them fo very obnoxious to the fpirit
of the world ; than which, there is nothing
more oppofite to a redeemed ftate : io that
the more any are drawn out of the corrupt
ways and fpirit of the world, the more
they are hated by it. This is obvious,
when we confider the treatment which
Chrift our Lord, in whom the Godhead
dwelt bodily, met with. If many in profef-
fion with us are nearer in unity and peace
with the world now, than our frieads were

formerly.

266 The JOURNAL ©y

formerly, let it not be tinderflood as a
token of their advancement in the nature
and fpirit of true religion; but the contrary,
viz. that they are fallen nearer thereunto,
and become more like it in fpirit, though
fomevvhat different as to the exterior part of
rehgion, which the world cares not much
for, when it finds, that in the main, we
are making advances towards them. Our
friends formerly deUvcred themfelves in
miniftry and writing, in a plain, fimple ftile
and language, becoming the caufe they
were fincerely engaged to promote ; chieHy
aiming to fpeak and write, fo as to convey
the power and efBcacy of the pure truth, to
that of God in the confciences of men. It
is no fmall glory to the righteous caufe we
are engaged to promote, that it has made
flich a mighty progrefs in the world, upon
a better foundation than that of human
helps and learned accomplifhments. The
very firft and moft eminent inflruments,
railed to propagate the fame, were illi-
terate men, agreeable to what Paul deli-
vers, I Cor. chap. i. %^er. 26, 27, 28, and
2(). May thefe things be weightily con-
fidered by all thofe, who feem to aim at
feeking credit to the fociety, by means of
thofe outward embellifhments, from which
our worthy ancients were wholly turned, to
feek and wait for that living power and
holy authority, which alone is able to carry
on the wodg of man's redemption to the

end

J6HN GRIFFITH. 267

end of time: the departure from which
opened the door effedlually for the apoftacy
to overfpread ; then human wifdom and
learning became, in the eftimation of de-
generate Chriftians, effentially neceflary to
make minifters of the gofpel. But the
early minifters and writers in the Chris-
tian church, became very eminent another
way, as we have great reafon to beheve
moft of them were ilhterate men ; and fuch
of them who had attained human learnings
when the power of the gofpel was mwardiy
revealed, laid all fuch accomplifhments
down at the feet of that power, to whom
every knee muft bow, and every tong-ue mud
confefs : fo that we find them counting all
that as drofs and dung, to which men, ia
their corrupt wills and wifdom, give the
higheft place for ufefulnefs, as above hint-
ed. And I think, fome amongft us fall
very little fhort of the fame difpofition
of mind, though they do not care to own
it in words ; for I have divers times ob-
ferved, fome have but little relifh f>r talte
for the fubftantial truths of the gofpel, ia
a plain (imple drefs ; nor to read books,
holding forth the fame, unlefs they fiad
fome delicacy in the ftile and compofition.
An honeft fubftantial iTxinifter may wade
into the feveral ftates of people, in orvier
to bring forth fuitably thereinto, in the
native fimplicity of the truth, and his
labour herein be fccn^ gladly owned and
M m received.

26S The JOURNAL of

received, by the circumcifed in heart and
ears, where his lot is caft ; yet the fort of
people amongfl: us above-mentioned, of
which I fear there are many, do not know,
nor much regard him, fcarcely thinking it
worth their while to attend the meetings fuch
a one is engaged to vifit. But if they hear
of one coming who is noted for learning
and eloquence, though perhaps far fhort of
the other in depth of experience, what fol-
lowing after him from meeting to meet-
ing! Enough, if the inftrument is not
pretty well grounded, to puff it up with
a vain conceit of itfelf, and to exalt it above
meafure. Some have with forrow obferved,
much hurt has been done amongft us, by
fuch great imprudence. I have often feen
reafon to conclude, popularity and common
applaufe is no fafe rule to judge of the real
worth of a minifler. Therefore, when I
have heard much crying-up of any inftru-
ment, I have been apt to doubt its fafe
ftanding, and holding out to the end ; which
it cannot poflibly do, if the fame defire pre-
vails to fpeak, as there is in fuch people to
hear. I am perfuaded, if fuch keep upon a
right bottom, they will, at times, find it
tlieir duty to ftarve and difappoint fuch
cravings after words.

I had an open fatisfactory meeting at Lan- .
tafter the day after the quarterly-meeting, in
which the holy virtue of truth greatly united
friends in the bond of love and peace. The

1 4th

JOHN GRIFFITH. 269

:!i4th of the jth month I fet out, m company
with my kind friends Jonathan Raine and
wife, William Dilworth, andTabitha Ecroyd,
and lodged that night at Watton, near Pref-
ton. Next morning I took my leave of
the above laid friends in much near affec-
tion, except William Dilworth, who ac-
companied me to Warrington that day.
The next, being the firft of the week, I
attended Penketh meeting in the morning,
and Warrington in the atternoon. At boih
which, my labour in the miniftry was heavy
and painful, on account of the formal,
lifelefs ftate of too many, who, by their age
and long profeffion, might have been as
pillars in the church ; as -well as the chaf-
'iinefs, and want of iblid experience by their
not yielding to the vifitation of truch, in
many of a younger rank. Thus it is, when
heavenly bleilings have been ihowered down
upon people, not duly improving thereby,
they become miore infeniible than others
who have not been fo highly favoured, I
was enabled to difcharge the iervice re-
quired, in a fearching, awakening manner,
to my own relief in a good degree. I went
the next day to my worthy friend Joiliua
Toft's, near Leek, who had then loft his
fight, but feemed frcfli and lively in his
Ipirit. We had great fatisfaction in com-
pany and converiktion with each other. I
ilaid one whole day v/ith him and his bro-
ther, and then proceeded towards Wcrceilcr,

taking

270 The journal of

taking meetings at Dudley and Stourbridge.
I had ibme open fatisfac^lory fervice at the
firft, and a very laborious painful time in
filence, at the other, where truth feemed
to me much deprefled by wrong things.
On feventh-day I went from thence to
Worcefter, and attended their firft-day
meetings, and was mournfully affe6led there-
in with a {enfe of lukewarmnefs in many
profeifors, finding it very hard for the life
and power of truth to arife into dominion,
fo as to make them fenfible of their ftates.
My labour was for the moft part in filence,
though I had fome clofe public fervice. I
went after the lafl meeting as far as Eve-
fham, on my way to London, and from
thence, the next day home to my dear wife,
and found *her well; which, together with
other fav^ours, I was, through infinite kind-
nefs, m;ide a partaker of in this journey,
bowed my mind in humble thankfulnefs
to the bountiful author of all blefiings,
who is alone w^orthy of dominion and
worfliip for evermore. I was from heme
about five weeks and five days, and travel-
led, by account, 664 miles, and wms at 37
meetings.

I have preferved no account in writing,
of my travelling in the fervice of truth, after
I returned from the laft-mentioned journey,
until the fore part of the year 1760, when
I entered npon my journey, in order to. vifit
the meetings of friends in the nation of

Ireland

JOHN GRIFFITH. 271

Ireland a fecond time; having had it
weightily upon my mind, at times, for
fome years. But when it drew near, I
clearly faw the time fixed to fet out, which
I did the firft of the 3d mionth, in the afore-
faid year, and went to London. The
2d being on firft- day, I went to Grace-
church'8treec meeting in the morning. My
bufinefs therein was to fet an example of
iilence. In the afternoon I had good open
fervice at Devonfhire-Houfe meeting. On
fecond-day morning the 3d I went into
the Weft-Chefter ftage coach, and arrived
at that city on fifth-day night, the 6th. I
went next day to Park-Gate, to inquire for
a pafTage, vsdiere I found divers vefTels ready
to fail 3 yet the wind being contrary, it was
uncertain v/hen ; fome having already wait-
ed near a month for a fair wind. I return-
ed to Chefter that night, and next day was
poorly of a cold, having, fince my great
illnefs, been very tender in my lungs, and
apt to be c?.fBicl:ed with an afthmatick dif-
order; fo that travelling, efpecially in cold
foggy weather, became very unpleafant for
me to bear, having endured confiderable
hardfliips in m.y journey from London,
by fuch weather and the motion of the
coach. But all was made up, in the fvveet
enjoyment of that pure love, which makes
hard things eafy and bitter things fvveet.
The 9th, being firft-day, I was at Chefter
rneeting, the nuitiber of friends being but

Irnall,

272 The journal of

fmall, and thejife of religion verv low;
yet it pleafed divine goodneik to extend rrer-
ciful help, giving me openaeib in the
fpringing up ot hte, to aclmmilter luitabiy
for their advantage, I hoj e, if rightly im-
proved. The loth in the morning, having
hired a guide and tv^o horles, I ft^ -v: for
Holy Head, in order to take a jr-'^-e for
Dublin in one of the packets, and sot thi-
ther next day about fix in the caing.
Here I found one of the packets to

fail early next morning. T went v^^ oard
the 1 2th, about fix o'clock in the morn-
ing, and landed at DubUn about f \ in the
evening, the fame day, having had an ealV
paflage and civil ulage on boafci, and was
kinciiy received by my open-hearted friends
Samuel Judd and family. 1 was pretty much
fatigued with travelling, being alfo afBid:ed
with a cold upon my lungs, v/lnch was
aggravated by the thick fuiphurous air of
Dublin. Yet the pure virtue and holy
anointing of the pregious truth, carried
through and over all weaknefs, both of
body and mind. My foul being enabled to
extol and magnify the God of my falva-
tion, for his gracious fupport every- way ;
for indeed, humanly looking and judging of
things, it might not have appeared prudent,
confidering my weak and infirm ftate of
body, efpecially alone, to have undertook
fuch a journey; but the power of gofpel
love gaining the afcendency over all reafon-

mgs

JOHN GRIFFITH. 273

ings and conlliltations with flefti and blood,
ii.ade me willing to give up life and ail, in
anr-.verirg the Lord's requirings, and to
pu' iue what he was pleafed to call me unto,
as i'dT as ability of body would admit.
This is a great m} ftery to the carnal man,
but it hath as real an exiRence in a re-
deemed mmd, as that a principle of felf-
lovc is tiie x| ih-g of acHon in an unredeem-
ed mind. On iixth-day, the 13th, I went
to the w^eek day meeting at Sycamore- Alley,
where humbling goodnefs was refrelhingly
near, and opened the doftrines of truth
largely and livingly, to the comfort of many
hearts. On firit-day, the 16th, I went to
Meath- Street in the* morning, where I had
thororgh fervice, to mine own great com-
fort and eafe ; though my fpirit was much
grieved, to view the havock made amongft
friends in that great city, by undue liber-
ties ; but mod of all under a mournful
fenfe, that the dragon's tail had drawn fome
of the ftars down again into earthly pollu-
tions, and caufed a. bad favour. This was
oiFenfive to my foul, even as a nuifance in
that meeting. May others harm and mif-
carriages caufe all the Lord's anointed to be
very watchful. I went to Sycamore- Alley
in the afternoon, where the meeting was
very large. Silent waiting upon God was
my fervice therein, in wdiich I had peace
and comfort ; and towards the conclufion,
there was an awful folemnity, in a remark-
able

274 The JOURNAL oi^

' able manner, over the meeting, wherein the
excellency of filent worfliip appeared. Oil
fecond-day, the 17th, I went to Baltibois
and had a meeting there next day. I had
cloie ronfing fervice therein; the teftimony
of trath went forth very fharp againft
haughty libertine fpirits. There I met my
good friend- Abraham Shakleton, who tra-
velled with me moft of the time I was in
that nation. Of him, I think, it may
be faid, as was of Nathaniel, ^' Behold an
" Ifraelite indeed, in whom there is no
" guile!" He was a great comfort and help
to me, and though he did not appear public-
ly as a mlnifter; yet he would drop tender
advice at times, in families, in a very affeil-
ing mar.n.T. His whole converfation, looks,
and deportment, was fo leavened and tem-
pered with the good, that I looked upon
him as a preacher of righteoufnefs where-
ever he came. I went with him, after the
abovefaid meeting, to his houfe at Bally-
tore, where next day I had a precious open
meeting, and good thorough fervice there-
in; the bleffed unchangeable truth being in
dominion ovr all. The 20th I had a good
ferviceable meeting at Athy, and the next
day another at Rathanyon, in which there
was a wonderful manifeftation of the divine
power, and much clearnefs in opening the
do(ftrines of truth; fo that I believe there
were few, if any, but were fenfibly afFe6led i
therewith. I hope fuch great extendings of

favour 1

JOHN GRIFFITH. 27J

favour will not be eafily forgot. From
thence I went to Edenderry, and was at
their meetmg on firft-day, the 23d, v.hicli
was a very large meeting, and the power
and wlfdom of truth was eminently mani-
fefted, in farniflihig with ability, to divide
the word aright to the ieveral ftates in diat
great mectirig. It was in much dread and
weight, not iparing any rank or flation in
the fociety. All there, I believe, through
divine favour, had fome lliare of that day's
work: I hope not eafily to be forgotten.
May the Lord alone have the praife ! for
he is the author of all the good that is, or
can be done. The 25th I had a large
meeting at Mount-Melick, in which I had
thorough fervice. The labour was fome-
what painful, in a fenfe of indifference,
and the infipid formal ftate of too many, as
well as . the pride and undue liberties of
others; both which have forrowfuUy pre-
vailed in that nation ; yet I found great eafe
and peace of mind, in the difcharge of that
weighty concern which was upon me for
their help and recovery, and which I hope
had a good eiFedl on many. Next day I had
a large meeting at Mount-Rath. I was en-
abled to dilchargv? the fervice required, in
a fearching manner, that carelefs profefTors
might be ilirred up to their rcfpedive
duties, and ancient zeal, ardour, and beauty
reftored to the churches. From thence I
went to James Huchinfon's, where I had
N n aa

276 The journal of

an open ferviceable meeting; I hope to the
comfort and help of many. The 28th I
had a meeting at Ballinakill, where I had
a good degree of opennefs, for the help and
encouragement of friends in the way of
well-doing ; but things were very low there,
as to the life of religion. I went after
meeting to Carlow, in order to attend the
province fix weeks meeting. Many friends,
from the feveral parts of the province,
came to it. It was a large meeting, and
confidering the low declined ftate of things,
we were favoured with wonderful extend-
Ings of heavenly power, wifdom, and living
virtue, in order to heal and reftore back-
fliding Ifrael. Great and marvellous is,
and hath been, the condefcenfion of the
Almighty to his peoplcj through all ages!
The dodrine of the gofpel flowed forth
freely to the feveral ftates of thofe prefent,
and many were much humbled, in an aw-
ful fenfe of the divine prefence, which is
the life and ftrength of God's people. I
had a large meeting at the fame place on
firfl-day, the 30th, it was a bleffed oppor-
tunity of favour and faving help extended
to thofe prefent : furely, if thefe high bene-
fits are not duly improved, great will be
the condemnation of thofe upon whom
they are beftowed. I went from thence
home, with my kind friends Robert Lackey
and wife, and had the next day a precious
open meeting and good fervice therein,

at

h

JOHN GRIFFITH. 277

at the houfe of our worthy ancient friend
Samuel • Watfou, of Killconner. I went
from thence to Rofs, where, at the houfc
of Samuel EI7, I had a low affliding meet-
ing, but little to be felt of the life of re-
ligion. I was quite fluit up as to miniftry.
From thence I went to Waterford, where
on the 3d of the 4th month, I had a large
meeting; it proved a time of cloie labour;
yet I waded through to mine own eafe, in
a good degree. On the 4th, I had an open
precious meeting at Clonmell. Oh, how
the heavenly virtue did llream forth! in
dodlrine and counfel, for the help, encou-
ragement, and ftirrin'g up of friends and
others, to their religious duty. The great
name of our God was adored and mag-
nified. The 5th I went to Cork, and at-
tended their meetings on firft-day. They
were large, and although the declenfion
from the life and fimplicity of truth is very
great and obvious amongft friends in that
city, and many under our name are much
defiled with the love of earthly gratifica-
tions, preferring their outward intereft to
that of religion ; yet great was the extend-
ingvS of divine love and favour for their
help and recovery. The dodrines of the
gofpel were thereby largely and livingly
opened, I hope to the comfort and help of
m.any, caufing the hearts of a fincere, up-
right-minded remnant amongft them great-
ly to rejoice with thankfulnefs. On- third-
day^

2278 The journal of

day, the 8th, I attended a very large meet-
ing there, both of friends and people of
oriv:.T religious perfua.ions ; it being ap-
pointed for the marriage of our friend
Samuel Neal to a daughter of Jofliua Beale,
and grand- daughter of our worthy friend
Jofeph Pike, deceafed. The fore part of
this meeting was very cloudy and painful,
but the fincere travail of the upright in
heart prevailed with the Lord to arife; then
his enemies were fcattered, and the glorious
powerful truth fhone forth in its beauty,
whereby the poor had the gofpel to preach,
in the blefTed demonftration thereof. It
was a time not to be eafily forgotten;
made fo by his refrelliing prefence, who
turned our water of afliiclion into the re-
viving wine of his kingdom; to whom,
for the multitude of his mercies to his
church and people, be humble thankfgiv-
ing, fincere obedience, and praifes for ever-
more. Amen ! I v;'ent from Cork direct-
ly to Limerick, where on the 1 1 th I had
a thorough open meeting, and the tefli-
mony of truth was greatly exalted, I hope
to the coiTifort and help of many. I often
much admired the divine condeicenfion, in
the open vifitations of his unmerited love
and long-fuiTering kindnefs, to a greatly
revolted and backfliding people. But what
we finite creatures cannot comprehend, ^of
his unfathomable regard to the workman-
ship, of his hands, we ought to adore and

w©rfliip

JOHN GRIFFITH. 279

worfhip him for, with reverence and awful
fear. So be it, fliith my foul, both in time
and eternity. I went from thence to Kill-
connen-Moor, where on firil-day, the 13th,
I attended their meeting, which was but
fmall, and my fervice therein was very la-
borious. The teftimony given to bear went
forth very iharp againft wrong liberties,
I was much afflicted, in a fenfe of the al-
moft defolate ftate of that meeting, which
that worthy man John Alhton, being firft
himfelf convinced in that remote place,
was the inftrument, in the Lord's hand,
by his favoury circumfpeil life and labour
to gather, I had a meeting in the afternoon
at Birr, where there are but few of our fo-
ciety, but many of the people called me-
thodifls, and foldiers came in. The gof-
pel of life and falvation was largely preach-
ed unto them. The neceffity of the new-
birth was urged and preiTmgly enforced.
The nature whereof, from a degree of ex-
perience, being fet forth, the meeting ap-
peared to be generally affected, and, I hope,
it was a ferviceable time. Some of the
methodifts did in words exprcfs their great
fatisfacStion, after meeting, beyond What I
choofe to mention. On the 15th I had a
very painful exerciling meeting at the Moat,
Great indeed was the diflrefs of my mind,
viewing the general hardnefs and infenfibi-
lity, as well as the vain frothy light fpirits
pf fome. I had very little opennefs, and

fcarcely

s8o The JOURNAL of

fcarcely any thing to deliver, but under a
fenfe of the Lord's anger being kindled
againft them, by whom, if they do not re-
pent, they will be rejeded. Though, I
hope, there were fome few had a degree
of tendernefs and good delires ; but, alas !
it is a hard lot for fuch who have a fenfe
of feeling, to be incorporated with a peo-
ple generally fo infenfible of the life of re-
ligion; but the Lord is all-fufficient for
thofe who put their trufl in him. From
thence I went to the Freeman's, near Old-
Caftle, where, on the i8th in the morn-
ing, I had a meeting held at their houfe,
for our friends only, in which I had matter
and utterance given fuitable to the dates of
the few prefent, who were pretty much
affedled with the teftimony of truth. In
the afternoon I had a large meeting in
friends meeting-houfe at Old-Caftle. I
underftood after meeting, they were moftly
papifts. I had a large opportunity to pub-
iifh the truths of the gofpel, with con-
fiderable clearnefs ; fliewing the neceffity of
obtaining vi(5lory over fin, through the power
and efficacy of living faith in Chrift; by
whom only, full remilTion of fin is to be
obtained, upon fincere repentance; fliew-
ing, in fome meafure, the great danger of
fuppofing the Ahnighty hath delegated the
power of forgiving fins to any man, or fet
of men whatever; that all who were defirous
to be freed therefrom, muft know the work

of

JOHN GRIFFIFH. 281

of God's fpirit in their hearts, to work that
change, or to bring forth that new-birth
our Lord tknght Nicodemus the neceffity
of. The auditory were generally quiet and
attentive, appearing to depart well fatif-
fied. One of the papifts after meeting did
to me exprefs much fatisfadlion wifli the
docftrine delivered. But I underftood one
or two priefts were much offended there-
with, yet they faid nothing to me; fo all
paffed off quiet, as was my mind, having
fweet comfort in the labour of that day.
From thence I went to Coothill, and the
20th was at their firft-day meeting, where-
in I was largely concerned in a clofe rou-
fing teftimony. It was very fliarp againft
the inordinate love of the world, which,
and other undue liberty, feemed to mc to
have almoft laid that meeting wafte. Their
monthly-meeting of bufinefs was held that
day, which to me was another token of
their little regard to tlie great caufe of re-
ligion and virtue, that they could not find
it in their hearts to beftow another day for
tranfacfling the weighty affairs of the church,
which I have always obferved to be the cafe,
where friends are really alive in religion, and
not narrowed up by the love of the world.
It hath often appeared wonderful to me,
how the profeffors of truth dare offer fuch
an indignity to the infinite being, and his
awful work, as to put it off until it fuits
them beft, and when they are likely to fur-

fer

282 The JOURNAL of

fer the leaft difadvantange in that refpecfl to
their outward affairs. What is pointed
out by the offerings under the law, being
of the firfl year and without blemifli ? And
what is meant by offering the lirft-fruits to
the Lord ? Oh, how ungratefully do fome
adl:, as if any thing, or any time, was good
enough to offer unto him! I have obferved
in fome places, though I can with com-
fort fay, it was but in very few, that they
hold their monthly and quarterly-meetings
in the afternoon, and having thus limit-
ed themfelves for time, they feem as
if they could fpare but little of it in
filent waiting, to feek the Lord's bleffed
affiflance, and in faith to look for the pour-
ing forth of the holy fpirit promifed in
this gofpel-day. But I have obferved them
to enter on the bufinefs as they have come
out of the world; m.oving in thefe weighty
affairs in man's natural abilities, whereby
darknefs reigns, and the glorious light and
life of truth is obfcured, and they come to
be fo benighted, as to fee no neceffity to
wait for it. Thus all living zeal, and
every qualification for carrying on the Lord's
work is loft, and vain man thinks he can do
without it. I am well affured, by living
experience, as well as the practice truth
hath led friends into in all places (a few
excepted) that it is the indifpenfable duty
of our fociety, every where, to dedicate a
week-day, viz. a day when they are not

debarred

JOHN GRIFFITH. ^83

debarred by the laws of the land to fol-
low their outward buiinefs, for traniadliiig
the weighty affairs of difcipline and good
order ; and to meet in the fore-p:*irt there-
of, men and women together, then and
there to wait upon the Lord, for the virtue
of his holy fpirit; and when they have
thus waited a proper time, then the mea
and women in their feparate apartments,
with awful fear, and a weighty care upon
all their minds as in the prefence of the
Lord, to proceed in their refpe(!?^ive parts of
this great work; which is the Lord's, and
cannot poffibly be profitably done but by
his immediate aiTiftance. This I leave upon
record, as my well-grounded teftimony for
God and his church. I attended what
they called their monthly-meeting, and by
looking a little into the flate of things, I
found them much out of order, and did not
wonder at it, as I found they had dropped
their week-day meeting. At my requefl
the women were defired to be prefent, when
much labour v/as beftowed for their help,
particularly to revive their week-day meet-
ing; they agreed to endeavour for it, and
made a minute for that purpofe in their
monthly-meeting book. But, alas! the life
of religion feemed to be almofl loil; their
flate being confufed and diforderly, by
mixed marriages, and the negledl of dif-
cipline. They appeared part one thing and
part another; which, if it was fo offenfive
O 0 to

284 The journal of

to God, and fo diftreffing to his people
under the old covenant, how can it be lefs
fb now? But when people's views are car-
nal and felfiih, they regard none of thefe
things, although the hazard is fo infinitely
great, I had a fmall poor meeting at Caftle-
ihane next day, where, to my great forrow
and pain, 1 could not perceive any alive in
religion. Some labour in teftimony was
beftowed, but to outward appearance it
took very li:tie effedl. From thence I went
to Thomas Greer's, at Dungannon, and on
the 23d had a large meeting at Charle-
mount, where I was concerned to declare
truth, as utterance was given, in a very
clofe fearching manner ; not without fharp
rebukes to fuch, who, by defiling liberties,
had brought an ill favour and caufed the
way of truth to be evil fpoken of. My
mind was comfortably relieved after the
fervice of this meeting w^as over, being dis-
charged of a heavy load. The next day I
had a very painful and exercifing meeting
at Ballyhagan. The appearance of the pro-
feflbrs was in general plain ; but, alas ! with
refpedl to the life of religion, they feemed,
in my view, for the mofi: part, like pictures
or images. Surely the blindnefs and flupi-
dity muft be exceeding great, if it be pof-
fible for people in that (late, to imagine or
dream they are the people of God. I was,
through divine favour, enabled to clear
myfelf of them, by a fharp fearching and

clofe

JOHN GRIFFITH. 285

clofe teitlmony, in the difcharge whereof I
had peace. The meeting was very large,
as to number. The 25t:h I went to the
province meeting of minifters and elders,
held in Lm^gan. My fpirit was deeply
affedled therein, with a forrowful fcnfe^ that
fome of the leaders of the people had caufed
them to err, and by their love for, and eager
pm'fuit after worldly enjoyments, had large-
ly contributed to obfcure the way of the
Lord, fo that the ferious inquirers ?fter the
paths which lead to peace, could not, by
obferving their fteps, find them out. Oh,
what a deplorable ftate that is ! I was fa-
voured with living authority and clearnefs,
to difcharge my mind towards fuch with
great plainnefs, which feemed to faften clofely
on fome: may they profit thereby, and the
end will be anfwered. The province meet-
ing was held next day, in which I had weighty
fervice. But, alas! they are far gone (a
few excepted) from the life and power of
religion; yet I found much good-will ex-
tended for their recovery and help, and the
heavenly power wonderfully opened my
mouth, and enlarged my heart, to deliver
fuitable dodlrine to their conditions, in
which I had peace, and many were affecfled
and reached therewith. Oh, how unwilling
is the Lord to give up the offspring of his
people ! I attended Lurgan meeting on firft-
day, the 26th, which, through the divine
manifeftations of heavenly power, was in-
deed

ii86 The JOURNAL of

deed a very awakening time to the unfaitli-
ful, as well as of Iweet refrelliment to
the few mourners in and for Sion. I went
after meeting to Lifburn, and had a very
open fatisfadory meeting there next day.
The teftimony of truth went forth in an
affeCling manner, to the tendering many
hearts. It was a time of humbling, en-
couragement to the honeft-he^rted. The
next day I had a very poor afflicJling m.eet-
ing at Hillfborough, things being very low
there. The 30th I had a very large meet-
ing at Ballenderry, in which I had tho-
rough fervice. The teftimony of truth
v/ent forth with much clearnefs and de-
jnonfLration, being, through divine favour,
an eminent time, and many dates fpoke
ciofcly to, I hope to their advantage. On
iifth-day, the firft of the 5th month, I had
a meeting at Moyallen, which was a painful
cloudy time. The teftimony delivered was
very fearching, in order to ftir up carelefs
profefTors, fome of whom feemed, in a
great meafure, to have deferted the caufe
of religion, and to have too much embraced
this prefent world. The 2d I fet out for
Dublin, in order firfl to attend the province
meeting for Leinfler, and then the half year's
meeting, both to be held there in one
week. I lodged that night at an inn in
Dunlere, and next day got to Dublin. On
firft-day, the 4th of the 5th month, I went
to Meath-Street in the morning, where

truth

JOHN GRIFFITH. 287

truth greatly favoured, in opening dadlrine
and counfei, to the edification and comfort
of many, as well as in caution and warning
to the difobedient and lukewarm profeiTors.
In the afternoon at Sycaniore-Ailey, it pro-
ved a laborious painful time of lilence, to
which, perhaps, the expecflation and defire
of the people after words might not a lit-
tle contribute. On fecond-day, the jth,
was held their province meeting of mini-
fters and elders. It was a painful heavy
time, but, through divine favour, fome
relief was adminiftered towards the con-
clulion. Next day was held the quarterly-
meeting for Leinfter province, in which I
had open thorough fervice, both in minif-
try, and aifo in relation to good order and
the difcipline of the church. On fourth-
day, the 8 th of the 5th month, third hour
in the afternoon, began their national meet-
ing of;-minifters and elders, wherein the
Lord was pleafed to open profitable in-
ftruclion, to- the great comfort and edifica-
tion of many. Next day we had a meeting
for worfhip in the 'morning, wherein di-
vine favour was plentifully extended, and
the do<5lrine of truth largely opened. The
meeting ^ of 'bufinefs for the whole nation
was held in the afternoon, in which a* de-
gree of divine wifdom and flrength were
adminiftered for our help in the manage-
ment thereof. On fixth-day morning Vv^as
held a large meeting for worfliip at Syca-
more*

288 The JOURNAL op

more-Alley, which was wonderfully over-
fhadowed with heavenly goodnefs, and the
teftimony of truth went forth freely, being
mvich exalted. In the afternoon the affairs
of the church continued ; and on feventh-
day, both fore and afternoon were employed
in them. Divine goodnefs was com-
fortably near, for the help and recovery of
a declined people, flirring up the hearts of
fome, as he did the heart of Nehemiah
formerly, to feek the profperity and welfare
of the city of God. I found a confiderable
alteration for the better, by fome reviving
and growth in the life of religion, amongft
friends in this nation. That painful fliat-
nefs and infenfibility, which I former-
ly mourned forely under a fenfe of, did not
appear fo generally to overfpread the
churches now, as then; though in fome
places it was rather worfe than better; yet
I think, upon the whole, things were
mended in a religious fenfe. The Lord,
in merciful kindnefs to them, not only fent
divers fubflantial inftruments from diftant
parts, to vifit them; but alfo, as before
noted, moved upon the hearts of fome a-
mongfl: themfelves, to labour for reftor-
ing ancient comehnefs, by vifiting their
monthly and quarterly, or province meet-
ings, for the promotion of good order and
difcipiine ; the reviving whereof, in the
wifdom which is from above, proves an ef-
fe(flual means to increafe and exalt the vir-
tue

JOHN GRIFFITH. 189

tue and power of true religion. A concern
of this nature came weightily upon the na-
tional meeting at this time, in the feeling
whereof, under the holy influence of hea-
venly light, friends nominated a certain
number to vifit the monthly meetings in
Leinfter province.

I cannot well omit making a remark
upon appointments, as I apprehend Ibme
have, by the fubtilty of Satan, been pre-
vailed upon to rejedt them : I believe all
fuch do not defign an injury to the fociety ;
but he who deceives them, intends there-
by the obftrucling that great and necefliiry
engagement, of maintaining good order and
difcipHne. I ardently delire, that all who
imdertake to move and adl in the church of
God, may be well informed what is the
fpring of adlion to them, and moves them
therein. If it be the fpirit of God, they
dare do nothing againft the truth, but all
in their power in order to promote it,
that being their greateft delight. But if it
be felf, it will feek its own honour, and be
very fond of victory, and be difgulled whe#
it cannot role and carry matters and things
its own way.

On firft-day, the nth, many country
friends being yet in the city, we had,
it was thought, the largeft meeting
known at fuch a time, for many years, and,
by the bleffed dominio,n of the everlaftino*
truth, it was a time of great favour. The
fincere-hearted were fweetly comforted, the

difobedient

2()o The journal of

difobedient warned, and in the free power-
ful opening of gofpel life, mnch doiflrine
and counfel were adminiftered, tending to
beget faith in the eternal power of God.
The afternoon meeting was, for the mod
part, held in an awful folemn filence. On
fecond-day was held a meeting of minifters
and elders, wherein divine goodnefs was
pleafed to open the free fountain of life
and healing virtue ; in whom we had to re-
joice with joy unfpeakable and full of
glory. His name was greatly exalted, mag-
nified, and adored amongft us. After this
meeting, apprehending myfelf now quite
clear of any farther fervice, at this time,
having, through infinite kindnefs^ been
much favoured and enlarged therein,
through mofl parts of the nation, but more
efpecially at the late great meetings in
Dublin, I was very earnefl in my mind
to embark for England, and fo to leave things
whilfl frefii-and well; always having an
averfion to loitering amongfl friends until
they flatten. But though there were feve-
lial Ihips ready to fail for Parkgate, ,yet I
could not get away till after their week-
day meeting, on third-day, in Meath-Street ;
to which meeting, I muft fay, I went with
confiderable reludlance, for the reafon above-
mentioned. But we are very fhort-fighted
creatures; for this meeting, notwithfland-
ing my unwillingnefs to be at it, proved a
memorable time; many country friends be-
ing

JOHN GRIFFITH. 291

ing ftill in the city, it was a folemn taking
leave one of another, in tlie precious flowing
of the holy unity by the one fpirit. Next
day about noon, in company with feven
friends intending for the yearly-meeting
in London, I embarked on board the Kil-
dare, captain M'Culloch, and landed at
Parkgate about ten o'clock next morning,
where we hired horfes and proceeded to-
wards London. But when we had travelled
as far as Coventry, apprehending I might
reach home, fo as to have three whole days
with my family before the yearly-meeting ;
and it being but about twenty miles more
riding, I concluded therefore to do fo ; my
kind friend Robert Lackey agreeing to bear
me company. This being on feventh-day,
the 17th, we got to Northampton that
night, and ftaid their meeting next day,
which was fmall, and the life of religion
appeared to me very low there. The
meeting was held in filence. I got home
on third-day, the 20th of the 5th month,
1760, finding my dear wife and family in
good health, to our mutual joy and thank-
fulnefs to the Lord, who leads out, carries
through, and brings home again in peace,
thofe who truft in him. Bleffed and praifed
be his worthy name for ever ! I was in-
deed largely favoured in the before-men-
tioned journey, of which, for mine en-
couragement to give up in humble con-
fidence in the Lord's power, I had a clear
P p foreiight

292 The JOURNAL OF ^

forefight before I entered upon it, which I
efteemed a high favour. I was from home
about twelve weeks and three days, travel-
led in that time upwards of 1300 miles,
and was at about 58 meetings. Our friend
Robert Lackey, myfelf and wife, went
to the yearly-meeting in London, which
began on feventh-day the 24th of the 5th
month, for minifters and elders. An efta-
blilhment, which I hope will be of great
fervice throughout the fociety in thefe na-
tions ; as inquiries are made at this meet-
ing, by calling for anfvvers from the feve-
ral parts, to certain queries agreed on, re-
lating to the condudl of friends in the fta-
tions above-mentioned ; and advice admini-
ftered as occafion may require. Common
reafon will inform us, that when the main
pillars give way, the building muft inevita-
bly fall. It is therefore prudent to take
due care concerning them. An eminent
fervant of the Lord wifely obferved to this
efFedl, viz. That there never was an apo-
Itacy from the life and purity of religion,
until the minifters and elders gave way.
How important then are their ftations, and
what great need have they themfelve-s, and
likewiie the church, carefully to obferve
Vv^hether or no they ftand upright, feeing
lb much depends thereon. On fecond-day
following was opened the yearly-meeting of
bufinefs, which continued, by adjourn-
ments, inoft or all the week; being a folemn

weighty

I

JOHN GRIFFITH. 293

weighty meeting, of very great import-
ance to the fociety: careful inquiries are
there made, mto the ftate thereof, in order
to communicate fuch help, as in the wif-
dom of truth may appear proper and aecef-
fl I am free to give a ihort account here,
ot the begmnmg or rife of one very import-
ant affair which came before this yearly-
meetmg, as I Ihall have occafion hereafter
to make fome mention of its progrefs and
iuccefs, VIZ. A nomination of friends, to
viiit all the monthly and quarterly-meet^
ings of friends in this nation, for their help
m promoting good order and difcipline in
«ie ieveral parts. Upon reading the au-
iwers to the ufual queries from the fe-
veral quarterly-meetings, great ilacknefs and
unfaithfulnefs in divers places in fome
weighty branches of our Chriftian tefti-
mony appeared, notwithftanding the great
and earneft endeavours made ufe of by the
yearly-meeting from year to year, by way
ot advice, caution, and counfel: the fenfe
whereof deeply afteaed fome minds, who
in humble proftration before the Lord'
were ready to fay. What wilt thou do for
thy great name's fake, and to heal the back-
ilidmgs of thy people? A friend under this
exercife, and an awful fenfe of the divine
prefence which was near, (lood up, taking-
notice of the apparent defection above-hint-
ed; and that as all the means hitherto uled
by the truly Ciuiftian labour of preceding

yearly-

-94 The JOURNAL of

yearly-meetings, had not proved fuflScient
to flop the declenfion, which feemed rather
to increafe ; that now it behoved that meet-
ing, deeply and weightily to confider what
remained yet to be done for the help and
recovery of the fociety, to its ancient purity
and comely order, or to that import. This
feemed to open the way for our worthy
friend Jofeph White of Pennfylvania, who
was then upon a religious vilit in this na-
tion, to lay before that meeting what he
faid had been much upon his mind mofl
of the time fince he landed, and which
feemed to increafe in clearnefs and
weight as that yearly-meeting drew near;
and that he now found it was the proper
time to deliver the fame, viz. That the
yearly-meeting do appoint a fuitable. num-
ber of folid, weighty, judicious friends, to
vilit all the quarterly and monthly-meet-
ings in England, therein to ufe their Chrif-
tian endeavours, in the love of God, for
the promotion and revival of wholefome
difcipline, and the comely order of the gof-
pel in the churches. Great was the awful
folemnity which covered the meeting, dur-
ing its deliberation on this very important
affair. The weight of the heavenly power
was fo exceeding great and awful, that it
was very hard for any contrary fpirits to
appear; yet objed:ions againft appointments
for fuch fervices were advanced by fome.
It was therefore propofed, that friends who

found

JOHN GRIFFITH. 295

found a concern on their minds to engage
' in the faid undertaking, would give in their-
names. The Lord's heavenly power being
at work, like leaven, in the meeting, a
wonderful time of divine favour it was,
wherein about fifty-eight offered themfelves
accordingly.

Before I infert any account of the
progrefs made in the above-mentioned fer-
vice, I have to take notice of a journey into
the Weft of England, which, in company
with my friend Richard Brev\rfter, I entered
upon the 9th of the 9th month this year.
We went to Plaiftow monthly-meeting,
where, unexpedledly, I had fome pretty dole
fervice. Next day, being joined at London
by my efteemed friend Thomas Corbyn,
w^e proceeded on our way, in order to at-
tend the circular yearly-meeting for the
weftern counties, to be heid at Wotton-
under-Edge, in Gloucefterihire, which be-
gan on firft-day, the 14th of the gth
month, and ended on the third-day fol-
lowing. Many of our fociety from divers
pares, attended, and a vaft c.oi>courfe of
other people, who generally behaved in a
becoming manner, carrying themfelves very
refpedlfully to friends, and I hope the meet-
ing was in the main, ferviceable; yet the
heavenly power was not exalted to fo high
a degree, as thoie whofe life and all is
in it could have defired. It is th^t
alone which is able to open people's way

rightly

«96 The JOURNAL of
rightly to^ our Sion ; not the fineft and
moft coni.ftent fet lof principles:"curiouf^
%, ^". .f""h and difplayed without it

tW ' %' '^r. ^''^^"^ P°^^r is the only
•\xr^-- . nic^ned. We went from

h!d?clo,^ r"\^""^-''^' ^^ Earthcott, and
nn f cloie fearchmg meeting at Thornbury

as to the hfe of rehgion. We had a mp^r
-g next day at Earth1:ott, wherein theTeft I
niony of truth went forch very ftarp againft

We^went^.^,^^^^^
tended their meeting on fixth-day, where
tmth^ and its teftirnony was exaked over
wrong things; and unfaithful, dXderlv

Htf S/r ''' *^ ^°---n and autht
ncy thereof, warned, and the humble fin-
cere traveller Sion- ward, comforted: it beitg

Die time. In the afternoon was held their
"meeting of minifters an<l elders, whereTn
we had fome very clofe work with a tron-
blefome importer, who had given fr endc
there mueh uneafmefs, by hfs un/Jvo "v
anu unfandified public appearances The
iudg,,ent of truth wis fet Z., him ^hoiTgh

On fiiR-day, the 21ft, we attended three

meetings

JOHN GRIFFITH. 297

meetings there; and notwithftanding the
mournful declenfion fo vilible amonglt
friends in that city, yet the Lord graciouily
appeared for their help and recovery ; open-
ing the dodtrine of truth in a clear and
plentiful manner to their feveral ftates,
with which many appeared pretty much af-
fed:ed. And although there is yet much
caufe to lament their degeneracy in too
general a way, yet I hope and believe
there hath been a confiderable reviving
in the beft fenfe, amongft fome of them^
efpecially the youth, fince I was there be-
fore. On fecond-day morning we had a
thorough rouling meeting at Portfhead in.
Somerfetftiire, and in the afternoon a large
mieeting at Clareham; the latter was
exceeding cloudy and aifHiding for a con-
fiderable time ; but at length, it pleafed the
Lord to arife and to give the word, with
underftanding to divide the fame in a plain,
powerful manner, and a very awakening
time it was; it went forth very fliarp a-
gainft indifFerency and empty formality,
which greatly depreffed the true feed in
that meeting: I hope it was a profitable
time. On third-day we had a very open,
ferviceable meeting at Sedcott; the tefti-
mony of truth flowed forth freely to the
feveral dates of thofe prefent. After meet-
ing we vv-ent to Bridgwaier. On fourth-day
was held the quarterly-meeting for Sonier-

fcr.

298 The journal of

fet. In the forenoon we had a large
meeting for worfliip, both of friends and
others ; fome previous endeavours, I under-
llood had beeii ufed, to invite the neigh-
bours, which, I think, was iK)t well judg-
ed, neither fhould I have encouraged it at
fuch a time, had I been confulted. The
leadings and poiiitiug^ our of truth fliould
be always minded, in calling or inviting
people of other perfuafions to our meetings ;
for I have fometimes thought them a bar in
the way of dealing fuitably with profefTors
of the truth, and therefore it is my judg-
ment, they ftiould not be called to our meet-
ings, unlefs thcle who travel in the fervice
of truth fignify their defire to have it fo,
to thofe who have the care of appointing
meetings. The power of the gofpel, open-
ing and exalting the dodrine thereof, was
Hvingly and comfortably extended in that
meeting; yet I apprehended, other people
were then rather in the way of our hand-
ling the ftate of fome profellors there, in a
manner truth would have led to, had friends
been by themfelves.* The meeting of bu-
finefs followed, and was adjourned till the
afternoon, wherein truth appeared to the
help of thofe who know their fufficiency
to be of God. We who were Grangers,
had good fervice therein. Next morning
w^e parted with my friend Thomas Corbyn,
who returned home, and my companion and
I proceeded on our journey. We had a meet-
ing

JOHN GRIFFITH. 299

ing at Taunton, on fifth-day morning, and
at Milverton in the evening. At both
which I had clofe fervice, tending to llir
friends up to more Hvely zeai and reUgi-
ous concern of mind. On fixth-day we
had a painful laborious meeting at Welling-
ton. The teftimony of truth went forth
very clofe and fharp againft thofe, who,
under the profeffion thereof, bow down
to the world, and its perifliing enjoyments*
It appeared to me, the life of religion was
much depreiTed in that meeting. On feventh-
day we had a meeting at Cullumpton, which
was a cloudy trying time mod of the meet-
ing; yet towards the conclufion, truth ob-
tained the victory, and coniiderable domini-
on over things of a contrary nature to itfelf*
We went after meeting to Exeter, and on
fir^-day, the 28th, were at two meetings
there; and although their number appeared
confiderable, yet that holy living fenfe and
weight of divine virtue which is the crov/a
and diadem of all our religous alTemblies,
was very low, and little telt, through the
too general flacknefs and lukev\farmnefs of
profeiTors, confequently, not much coviid be
done towards exalting truth's teftimony a-
mongil them. On fecond-day we went to Bo-
vey, and had a poor, laborious meeting, there
being very few, if any, that I could fine],
truly alive in religion. When that is felc
to be the ftate of any meeting, oh! whac

3O0 The JOURNAL of

pain and anxiety covers the hearts of poor
travellers in the fervlce of the gofpel ! The
next day we w^ent to King's-bridge, and on
fourth and fifth-day attended the quarter-
ly-meeting for Devonfliire held there;
wherein the great mafter of our airemblies
gracioufly condefcended to their very low,
weak, and unfkilful Hate, opening doclrine
and counfel for their help ; furfiilhing w4th
clofe admonition to fuch in high ftations,
wdio either indulged themfelves or families
in undue liberties, tending to lay a people
wafte, whom the Lord, by an out-ftretched
arm, gathered out of the fafliions anci
changeable culloms of a vain world, to
himlelf the unchangeable fountain of good.
On fixth and feventh days we travelled
through Plymouth and fundry other towns,
to Penryn, in Cornwall, and had two opeUj
precious meetings at Falmouth, on firft-
day, the fifth of the loth month. On
fecond-day, accompanied by many friends^
w^e went to Penzance, where, on third-day,
was held the quarterly-meeting for Corn-
wall. Truth wonderfully appeared in that
meeting, confidering their low, weak, and
unfaithful (late. The teftimony thereof
was much exalted, and went forth with
clearnefs and good demouilration to their
ftates, and the meeting appeared to be mvich
afFedled therewith. There was alfo fome,-
thing very encouraging to the honed- heart-
ed; I hope it was a time of awakening

and

JOHN GRIFFITH. 301

and profit to many. In the evening we
had what was called a feiedl meeting, for
minifters and elders; but it was fo far from
felecl, that the fervice feemed to be wholly
obftruded, by the crouding in of many
who were not fit to be admitted into fuch
meetings; where minifters and elders may^
and often are concerned co ufe fuch freedoms,
in advice, caution, and counfel, as would
be altogether unluitable for thofe who are
raw and inexperienced to be privy to, as
they might be likely to make improper ufe
thereof. I laid before friends the hurt and
difadvantage of fuch a promifcuous gather-
ing, upon that occafion, and advifed them
to be careful not to lay wade the fervice of
thofe meetings for the future; for I found
myfelf much ftraitened, as I could not,
v^itli prudence, deliver what feemed to ap-
pear before the view of my mind at that
time, for the reafon above-mentioned. On
fourth-day, the concluding meeting was
held at Market- Jew, wdierein truth and
the teftimony thereof was comfortably ex-
alted. But, alas! forrovv^ful is the declen-
lion of the fociety in thofe parts, both as to
number, and a holy living zeal; yet mer-
ciful goodnefs was largely and affe6lingly
extended for their help and recovery.
From thence Vv^e took the following meet-
ings in our return to Plymouth, viz.
Auftel, Lifkard, and Germans, where I
found the life of religion mournfully low

ahcl

S02 The JOURNAL of

and deprefied ; yet the Lord was pleafed to
open the v/ay to fome, I hope profitable
endeavours tor their reviving, in the exer-
cile whereof I had peace. 1 attended Ply-
mouth meetings on firft-day, the 12th.
This was a very painful, laborious time, as
but very little of the life and holy efficacy
of true religion had place, moil under our
profeffion having made large advances to-
wards the world, and but tew endued with
Chriliian courage to make a ftand againft
prevailing undue liberties. The flate of
a meeting beii g thus, oh, how doth death^
darknef^, and mfenfibility gain the afcen-
dancy ! My fpirit was deeply afilidled at
that place, yet 1 was, through divine favour,
enabled to clear myfelf of the fervice re-
quired ; wlicrebv I had fome relief. We
travelled from thence diredlly to Exeter,
and on third' day attended a meeting there, *
appointed for the accomplifliment of a mar-
riage. Truth mercifully opened the way j
to lome fatisfaclion, in the difcharge of the '■
fervice required, to the advantage of the
meeting. From thence we went to Chard,
and had a very fmall poor meeting there on
fifth-day morning, and w^as deeply affecfled
with their low weak ftate. I had a pretty
thorough ferviccable meeting in the after-
noon, at Ihniniter; though I felt much
pain of mind there alfo, in a fenfe of that
which hath almoit laid our fbciety wafte ia
(qwx.:^ and exceedingly hurt it in mod

places,

JOHN GRIFFITH. 50^

places, viz. the inordinate love of earthly-
things; and refting iktisfied in a profeffion
of religion only. "We took the following
meetii gs in our way to Bath, viz. Yeovil,
Long button, Grinton, Shepton-Mallet,
Froome, Hallawtrow, and Belton; where
things, as to the life and true feeling fcnfc
of religion, appear but low in general ; yet
merciful kindnefs was extended, in a live-
ly, open, large, and powerful manner,
both immediately and initru mentally, in
order to quicken, reflore, and turn a*
gain backfliding Ifrael. On firil-day, the
26th of the loth month, we attended two
meetings at Bath, w^hich were indeed pain-
ful and very afflidling, as the grandeur,
friendfliip, and vain cuftoms of this world,
feem to have almoft erafed from moft of
their minds, the defire of feeking happinefs
in another: yet merciful condefcenlion
was remarkably extended, in fome earnell
and awakening endeavours, to bring them
to a right fenfe of things. On fecond-day
morning we fet our faces homewards, where,
to my great fatisfadtion I arrived on fourth-
day in the evening, and found my dear wife
and family well ; having been out this
journey feven weeks and two days, in which
time, by account, we travelled upwards of"
Soo miles, and were at about 51 meetings.

Purfuant to the direcftion and appomt-
ment of the yearly-meeting 1760, for vifit-
ing the monthly and quarterly meetings of

friends.

364 The JOURNAL of

friends in this nation; on the nth day
of the I ft month, 1761, my efteemed friends,
John Emms, Matthew Mellor, Thomas
Corbyn, and Jofeph Taylor, joined me at
Chehiisford, we having before agreed (by
divine permiffion) to vifit the monthly and
quarterly-meetings of friends, in Eflex,
Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgefhire, Hun-
tingtonfliire, the Ifle of Ely, Hertford-
fliire, and Bedfordfliire. The next day, be-
ing the 1 2th, our monthly meeting was
held, wherein the above-named friends had
good fervice, tending to promote difcipline
and good order amongft us. The blelTed
eiEcacy of the living word accompanied
their honeft labours, which rendered the
fame very acceptable to fome, and I hope of
general advantage for the promotion of
truth. The 14th we vifited Felfted month-
ly-meeting, held at Stebbing; the ftate of
which appeared very low and weak, through
the defedlion and lukewarmnefs of many
members, whereby the life of religion was
greatly depreffed; yet the Lord w^as graci-
oufly pleafed to arife, for his great name
and people's fake, in whofe living power
and v/ifdcm m.uch labour was beftowed
for their help and recovery; a few fincere-
hearted members amongft themfelves, join-
ing with us herein. The i6Lh we vifited
Thaxfted monthly-meeting, and by inquiry
made, it appeared, many of their members
were very flack and defective in divers

branches

JOHN GRIFFITH. 305

branches of our Chriflian teftimony; and
moft of the adlive members had but
little experience in the eflential qualifica-
tions for efFedual fervice in the church,
which muft all proceed immediately from
the great Father of lights and fpirits. It
would be very abfurd to imagine a lefs or
inferior ability to adminifter jufcice and
found judgment, were neceffary under this
higher and more glorious difpenfation, than
was received by thofe who judged and
ruled for God in the Ifraelidfli church ; it
being evident the Lord was pleafcd to
put his fpirit upon thofe who had the
weight of the affairs of that church upon
them, both in their wildernefs flate of pro-
bation, and after they quietly poflefFed the
promifed l^nd. But the fupernatural en-
dowment, fo efTential as above hinted, is
not within our reach as men, neither is
it given to us, until we are emptied of our
own wifdom, and diverted of all depend-
ance upon human accomplilhments.

Our holy head was pleafcd to furnifh us
with wifdom and ftrength, fuitabk to the
ftate of that meeting, for their information
and help ; and the blefled vif tue of trutli
prevailed, to the tendering of their fpirits.
The next monthly-meeting vifited was
Coggefliall, on fecond-day, the 19th, but
as I did not attend that meeting, I cannot
fay further concerning it, than that I un-
derftood it was a ferviceable time ; much

weighty

3o6 The JOURNAL of

weighty advice and counfel being admini-
ftered, to mutual fatisfac5lion and comfort.
The 21(1 we vifited Colchefter monthly-
meeting, where, though the life of religion
appeared low, and feveral diforders had
crept in, yet divine goodnefs was extended
in a powerful manner for their help, en-
lightening the fpirits of fome to fearch the
camp, and to point out how to proceed in
reftoring that which had been turned out of
the way. The 22d, Manningtree monthly-
meeting was held at Colchefter, in which,
through the pure efficacy of heavenly love
and wiftlom, much fervent labour was be-
ftowed, for the awakening and ftirring up
the feveral me^r^bers to a faithful difcharge
of their refpedtive duties. But, alas I
through the great unfairhfulnefs of many,
difcipline was but little maintained, in a
manner agreeable to its dignity and worth j
confequently the life of religion was very
low. From Colchefter we went to Edmund's-
Bury, in Suffolk, and vificed their monthly-
meeting the 24th. It was a time of re-
markable favour extended, truth bowing
the fpirits of friends into an humble,
teachable ftate, and, at the fame time, af-
fording plenty of fuitable counfel, which
was kindly received by divers members of
that meeting, with whom we had near
union and great fatisfaclion ; feveral being
willing to engage in the work of reforma-
tion, which appeared neceflary. The 26th

we

JOHN GRIFFITH. 307

we vlfited Woodbridge monthly- meeting,
in which the Lord, according to his
wonted merciful kindnefs, appeared not
only in fpreading the awful canopy of his
divine power over the meeting, but alfo,
in gracioufly condefcending to be a fpirit of
judgment and counfel, for the help and re-
covery of a declining people; under the en-
joyment of which divine favour, much
labour was beftowed, and (as far as appeared)
was well received. The 28th we vifited
Beccles monthly-meeting, where things ap-
peared very low and much out of order;
the fpirit and wifdom of man appeared
much to rule and adl amongft them, which
is fond of fmoothing over, and daubing
with untempered mortar, crying. Peace,
when there is no peace. In this difficult
mournful ftate of things, the divine helper,
in whom our only dependance remained,
was near, giving judgment to affign the
living child to the proper mother, and to
judge down wrong things, in whatever fta-
tions they appeared. The 29th we vifited
Tivetfhall monthly-meeting, in Norfolk, in
which, though large, as being compofed of
many members, yet very great flacknefs and
unfaithfulnefs appeared in divers important
refpedls; notwithftanding which, we had,
with thankful acknowledgments, to expe-
rience the awful prefence of the Lord,
who is the only ftrength and fufficiency of
his little ones; under the blefled influence
R r whereof,

3o8 The JOURNAL of

whereof, great and deep labours were b^-
ftowed, for the reviving our Chriftian dif-
cipline, and promoting the good order of
the gofpel; the teftimony of truth being
maintained againft wrong things in that
meeting, with authority and clearnefs;
the power thereof fubjedling (for the pre-
fent at leaft) all of a contrary nature to it-
felf. On the 2d of the 2d month, we
vifited the monthly-meeting of Wymond-^
ham, wherein, on the ufual inquiries, things
appeared very affli(5ling, through the great
defedion of many ; the few who were con-
cerned for good order, were weak and
much difcouraged, fo that very little wag
done to maintain our wholefome difcipline,
by ^vifiting and labouring with the un-
faithTul and diforderly walkers: yet the
Lord, in great condefcenfion, appeared
wonderfully for their and our help, ex-
tending much advice and counfel, and giv-
ing us wifdom and ftrength to contend
earneftly for the faith once delivered to
the faints ; which faith is to be demon-
flrated by works conliftent therewith. The
teftimony of truth was greatly exalted over
all fuch, as through a mean compliance
with wrong things, had mournfully deviated
therefrom. The 3d we vifited their meet-
ing of minifters and elders at Norwich,
where the flate of the members was in-
quired into, by means of queries proper to
fuch meetings ; folid and weighty advice

was

JOHN GRIFFITH. 369

was given, where any deficiency appeared*
Although I have not before now diftin6lly
mentioned our vifits to feledl meetings, yet
we had fuch opportunities in moft or all
the monthly-meetings where fuch meetings
were fettled. On the 4th of the 2d month,
we vifited the monthly-meeting of Nor-
wich, which was very large, confiding both
of the men and women friends ; it being
our method, during our labours at the
monthly-meetings, to have the company of
both fexes. Through the over-fhadowing of
divine power, it was a folemn awful time,
of which friends in general appeared to
be fenfible, as a remarkable ftillnefs and
patience was abode in, for the fpace of about
fix hours and a half, being the time of the
meeting's continuance; though a motion
was made fooner for our women friends to
withdraw, left fome weak conftitutions
might be injured by long fitting, &c. yet
their fpirits being fo ftayed and bowed down
under a fenfe of heavenly good, they did
not accept the liberty given, but con-
tinued to the breaking up of the meeting.
We found a vakiable body of friends in
that city, and difcipline, in the main, well
fupported; yet there appeared great danger
of the prevalence of earthly-mindednefs, in
fome, and grandeur and wifdom abcn^e
the fimplicity of the truth, in others ;
which, if not guarded againfl:, miglit in-
trude itfelf to a(5t and govern in the church ;

of

3IO The JOURNAL of

of which friends were warned, and through
the efFedlual opening of the fountain of
wi^fdom and knowledge, much caution and
counfel were admin iilered, to mutual edi-
fication and comfort. On the 6th of the
2d month we vifited the monthly-meet-
ing of North-Walfham, where we found an
honeft fincere remnant concerned to main-
tain the principles of truth, by a condudl
conliftent therewith; yet a great defedlion
appeared in fome important branches of our
Chriftian teftimony; the monthly-meeting
not having difcharged its incumbent duty,
by way of admonition and dealing with
fuch members. Truth opened our war in
much plainnefs and clofe labour, in order
to bring the unfaithful to a right fenfe of
their ftates, and to revive and promote our
Chriftian difcipHne, as a means to reftore
ancient beauty, and a good favour amongft
men. The path of the juft, in which our
worthy predecefTors carefully walked, was
clearly opened before friends in that meet-
ing ; the judgment of truth being fet over
thofe who had erred and ft rayed therefrom,
in this day of outward eafe and liberty.
The 9th we vifited Wells monthly-meet-
ing, in which humbling goodnefs prevailed,
to the great comfort and ftrength of the
upright-hearted; in a living lenfe of the
free extendings whereof, much labour was
beftowed to reftore good order and difcipline
in every part, by iirft endeavouring to re-
move

JOHN GRIFFITH. 311

move thofe impediments which appeared
in the way. It was a time of fweet com-
fort in a faithful difcharge of duty. The
nth we vifited Lynn monthly-meeting,
wherein our fpirits were deeply afflicted
under a cloud of darknefs, which feemed
to over-fliadow that meeting, occafioned by
the prevalence of wrong things in many
of the members, and their great neglecl of
the due execution of wholeibme difcipline.
Much labour was bellowed in order for a
regulation, but, alas ! great weaknefs and
tm£kilfulnefs appeared; neither was there
that opennefs to receive help, waiich we could
have defired in the general; may alfo add,
we had frelh occalion to fay, that nothing
but an underftanding renewed from above,
is capable of labouring fuccefsfuUy for the
maintaining our Ghriftian difcipline. Oh !
that this important point was duly confider-
ed by all active members. The 13th we
vifited the monthly-meeting of Wifbeach,
in the Ifle of Ely; it was a fmall meeting,
as but few members belong thereto. By
inquiry, it appeared, llacknefs and difor-
der had prevailed on fome, and things in
general were but low; yet an opennefs was
felt to receive proper advice and counfel,
which, through the gracious extendings of
heavenly help, was freely and largely
communicated. We had caufe to believe
truth was at work in the hearts of a few,
in order to prepare them for fervice; hav-
ing

312 The JOURNAL of

o

ing eafe and fatisfadlion in our labours a-
mongfl; them, and hoping this vifit would
prove of confiderable help to that meet-
ing. The 17th we vifited the monthly-
meeting at Ives, wherein we had painful
labour, and found things much out of
order, which had caufed darknefs to be
felt, and an ill-favour; fome of the adlive
members did not appear to us rightly to
know what fpirits they were of; however,
we found they v/ere not one with us in
our fervice, which was indeed very clofe
and fearching to all ftations in the church,
as it appeared all had need of help, and to
look more narrowly to their Handing. Di-
vine goodnefs was gracioufly with us, and
carried us through, to our eafe and fatis-
fadlion in a good degree. But, alas ! we
have fometimes caufe to fee, that our dif-
cipline does not profper when managed ,
with unfandlified hands. The i8th we vi- |
fited Hadingham monthly-meeting, and
found things very low, as to the life of
religion, confequently as to good order and
difcipline; yet fome appeared hopeful,
tender, and defirous of a proper regulation
in the affairs of the church, with whom
vv^e had good fatisfadlion in our labours for
their improvement, which I hope was not
in vain. The 20th of the 2d month, we,
vifited the monthly-meeting of Royfton, in
Hertfordfliire ; the ftate of which appeared
much out of order; diicipline was in the

main

JOHN GRIFFITH. 313^

main negledled. Very deep and painful was
our labour, under a mournful fenfe of that
grofs darknefs which had prevailed, by
xeafon of unfaithfulnefs ; yet the Lord was
gracioufly with us, and the teftimony of
truth was exalted over the heads of difor-
<ierly walkers, and all thofe, who, by a
mean temporizing fpirit, had violated fome
principal branches of our Chriftian tefti-
mony. We were unanimoufly of opinion^
that the monthly-meeting of Royfton, in
its prefent ftate, was too weak to manage
the weighty affairs proper to a monthly-
meeting, and therefore propofed their being
joined to Baldock and Hitchin ; which,
upon a folid deliberation, was agreed to,
and hath been lince effected, to the great
fatisfadlion of friends who have the prof-
perity of truth at heart. The 23d v^e vi-
fited Hertford monthly-meeting, in which
heavenly wifdom and merciful help (as at
other places) were largely extended, to the
encouragement of a few lincere labourers
amongft them, as well as to the warning
and ilirring up of carelefs, unfaithful pro-
feffors : for indeed, there appeared much
ilacknefs in too many, in not improving
thofe talents God had given them. The
24th, we vifited thofe under our profeffion
at Coterhill-head, called a monthly-meet-
ing; but, alas! upon inquiry, we found
but very little done of the bufmefs proper
to a m.onthly-meeting; neither vf as it held

in

314 The JOURNAL of

in due courfe, but rather occafionally, for
fome particular purpofes ; and when the
Hate of the members appeared, we did not
marvel thereat, feeing moft of them were
■unfaithful in regard to that important tefti-
mony, againft tithes and other anti-chrif-
tian demands of that nature: other great
diforders alfo had crept in, nor can any
other be reafonably expedled, where per-
fons are fo void of a right underftanding,
as to facrifice that noble teftimony; they
have not ftrength to maintain other branches
in a confiftent efficacious manner, fo that
where this defe6lion hath prevailed, we have
obferved the moft eflential part in religion
(amongft us as a people) has fallen with
it: meetings for worfhip and difcipline
are neglected, and if fometimes held by
fuch, they are to little good purpofe; plain-
nefs and felf-denial are departed from : this
hard, dark, tithe-paying fpirit is fo blind,
as to fee but little in any branch of our
teftimony, wherein there is a crofs to the
carnal mind. Upon folid confideration
we did not think, that ufing endeavours
to regulate that meeting, in its (ituation at
that time, would anfwer any good purpofe ;
but the great thing pointed out to us in
the Hght of truth, was its being dif-
folved, and that the members thereof might
be joined to Hertford monthly-meeting;
whicji had been endeavoured for feveral
years, both by their quarterly-meeting,

and

JOHN GRIFFITH. 315

and alfo feveral committees of the yearly-
meeting, which had not, till now, proved
fuccefsful, as the confent of mofl of the
members could not be obtained: but this
meeting, through divine favour, was won-
derfully overlhadowed with a folemn weight
of heavenly power, which awed and tender-
ed their fpirits, and at the fame time merci-
fully enabled us clearly to demonftrate,
that they contended only for the name of
a monthly- meeting; feeing the fervice of
fuch a meeting was not anfwered, fcarcely
in any inftance. They at length generally
yielded, and a minute was made to propole
a jun6lion with Hertford, which is fince
effedled, to the great eafe and fatisfadlion
of friends. I cannot well avoid remarking
here, the very great hurt and obftrudlion
to the progrefs of truth, which I have
divers times, with forrow of heart, ob-
ferved to arife by fonie adlive members
from private views, flrenuoufly wlth-
ftandlng the pointings of divine wiidom,
for the help and prefer v a tion of the
body, which doubtlefs is in the Lord's
fight, a crime of a very ofFenfive nature;
therefore all ihould greatly dread being in
any degree guilty thereof. Let us therefore,
at all times, carefully examine what ground
we adl upon in the church of God, whe-
ther we always preferve the fingle eye, being
cloathed with that pure charity which
feeketh not her own, and filled with that
S s univei'fal

3i6 The JOURNAL of

univerfal fplrit, that carefully promotes the'
good of the whole, without refpecl of per-
foiis. The 25th we vifited Hitchin month-
ly-meeting, where we found a valuable
folid body of friends, and difclpline w^ell
maintained in mod of its branches. Hea-
venly goodnefs over-fiiadowed that meeting,
whereby underftanding was given to admi-
nifler fuitable caution and counfel ; particu-
larly to point out the great danger of fitting
down at eafe, in a becoming decent form,
even after being eminently favoured, both
with the dew of heaven and the fatnefs
of the earth ; notwithftanding which,
there muft be a perfevering in an earned
labour for daily bread, feeing nothing be-
yond this can be attained by us, whilft in
a militant ft ate. On the 27 th we vifited
the monthly- meeting of Ampthill, in Bed-
fordfliire, the Lord's awful prefence being
near, as, through infinite mercy, was gene-
rally the cafe; this opened the way for a
clofe and diligent inquiry into the ftate of
that meeting. Things appeared low and
pretty much out of order; the aclive mem-
bers having here, as in many other places,
too much neglected a deep and painful la-
bour for a better regulation. Endeavours
were ufed, in order to ftir up and provoke
to love and good v^rorks, by diligently ex-
pending a care over the whole liock, that
ib all might be brought into the comely
order of the gcfpcl. On the 28th we vifit-
\ ed

JOHN GRIFFITH. 317

€(1 Luton monthly-meeting; it was fmall,
flacknefs and the want of right zeal ap-
peared; alfo fome diforders crept in, yet
there feemed opennefs in the minds of
friends to receive advice and counfel,
which, through divine aid, were largely
adminiftered ; and I hope the labour of that
day was beneficial to divers of the mem-
bers, and may prove a lading advantage to
that meeting. The 2d of the 3d month,
we vilited Alban's monthly-meeting, held
at Charley- w^ood, where, on the ufaal in-
quiries, things appeared very low and much
out of order; yet divine favour was largely
and livingly extended for their help and re-
covery; in an humble fenfe whereof, much
endeavours v/ere ufed to promote a better
regulation; firft, by the a6live members
taking heed to themfelves, that they might
be endued with ancient zeal and fervour of
mind ; then they would take the over-fight
of the flock, not by conftraint, but willing-
ly: this willingnefs, through a neglecft of
feeking that divine power which alone can
bring it forth in the mind of man, hath
been much loft or departed from, by many,
and appears to be greatly wanting in moil
places; this, without doubt, is one prin-
cipal caufe that fo general a defe(5lion hath
prevailed. Had the foremoft rank ftood
faithful in the authoi^ity of truth, they
w^ould have been as a bulwark againft undue
liberties, and happy inftruments to have

preferved

3i8 The JOURNAL of

preferved the body healthy, and in beautiful
order. But, oh ! how (hall I fet forth,
and fufEcieptly admire, the marvellous con-
defcenfion of infinite goodnefs, which fo
eminently manifefted itfelf in all the meet-
ings we were concerned to vifit, in order to
bring back again the caj^tivity of his people,
to build up the wafte places, and to beauti-
fy the houfe of his glory. May fuch evi-
dent tokens of his merciful regard make
deep and lafting imprelllons on all minds,
left the Lord be juftly provoked to caft
many off, and move fuch to jealoufy by
thofe who are now no people. One very
forrowful inftance of much degeneracy, be-
ing an inlet for many other wrong things to
creep into our Ibciety, was the great negledl
of divine worfhip, efpecially on week days ;
ibme week-day meetings being wholly drop-
ped, and in many places where they are
kept up, attended by few ; and by what ap-
pears, many do not feem to think it their
duty to attend them at all, nor even firft-
day meetings, when fmall difficulties prefent.
This difcovers remarkable ignorance of the
great importance of that indifpenfable duty,
as well as of the great need all have, of a daily
fupply from the Lord's bountiful hand.
As thefe opportunities of inward retirement
and hvimble bowing before God, have, by
experience, been found times of unfpeak-
able refrefliment, which flows from the
prefence of the Lord, who has gracioufly

promifed

JOHN GUIFFITH. 319

promifed to be with thofe who meet in his
name, even where the numbers are but two
or three, hereby ftrength is adminiflered,
which enables us to (land our ground in the
Chriftian warfare. It is no marvel there-
fore, that the negled: of fo important a
duty, is a caufe of much nxaknefs, de-
priving people of a neceflary defence againlt
numerous and potent enemies w^hich war
againft the foul. Here he that goes about
like a roaring lion, and alfo as a creeping
fubtil ferpent, prevails, in order to lay the
fociety wafte; and whilft many are afleep
in carnal fecurity, he finds opportunity to
fow tares amongft the wheat. Very deep
and fervent were our labours in this vifit,
to promote diligence in this moft import-
ant duty, as a great means, under the divine
bleffing, for the reftoring ancient beauty
and comelinefs thrgughout the fociety.
This opportunity at Charley- wood, finiflied
our prefent vifit to monthly- meetings ;
we having requefted the quarterly-meeting
to which they belonged, to adjourn, in fuch
order, as to be vifited in courfe by us at
one journey, to begin in Luton, for Bed-
fordihire, which accordingly vvas held the
£th of the 4th month, 1761, John Emms^
Thomas Corbyn, Samuel Scott, Jofcph Row^
and myfelf attended the fame, and laid before
the quarterly meeting, in writimr, the ftate
of their monthly-meetings, as the fame ap-
peared to us hj their anfwers to the quar-
terly-

320 The JOURNAL of

terly-meeting queries, and other inquiries
made in our late vifit, witji fundry remarks
thereon; and through the over-fliadowing^
of heavenly power, we were fervently con-
cerned to bring the weight of the declined
ftate of the fociety there, upon the meet-
ing, wherein an engagement of mind was
revived for a reformation: may the fame
continue and increaie. On the loth of
the 4th month we vifited Hertford quarter-
ly-meeting ; w^here our friend Jofeph Tay-
lor, who had been indifpofed, joined us.
Having previouily drawn up the ftate of
their monthly-meetings, as the fame ap-
peared to us in our late vifit, with re-
marks thereon, we laid it before the meet-
ing, which they took into their folid con-
fideration, and a folemn time it was: the
Lord's power being livingly felt, it made
a remnant willing to arife, that the breaches
made in that excellent hedge of difcipline,
fet by divine wifdom about us as a people,
might be repaired; that the heritage be
not laid wafte. On the 14th of the 4th
month, we vifited the quarterly-meeting at
Ives, for Huntingtonfhire, Cambridgelhire,
and the Ifle of Ely ; where, having drawn
up the ftate of their monthly-meetings, as
the fame appeared to us in our late viiit,
with fome remarks thereon, we laid the
fame before them, with earneft labour to
awaken the adlive members, to a lively fenfe
of the forrowful declenfion found within

. their

JOHN GRIFFITH. 321

their borders. It was a painful exercifing
time, great infenfibility having prevailed
over many ; yet I believe it vsras a leafon of
comfort and relief to a living remnant,
vv^ho travail for the profperity of trvith a-
mongft them ; may their number increafe !
We had the returns of fvt^eet peace in the
difcharge of our duty, and departed with
chearfulnefs of mind. On the 21ft of the
4th month, we vifited the quarterly-meet-
ing for the county of Norfolk, held in
the city of Norwich; where, as ufual,
having drawn up the ftate of their month-
ly meetings, with remarks thereon, the
fame was folidly laid before the meeting ;
wherein divine goodnefs was manifefted ; in
the wlfdom and ftrength whereof much
earned labour was bellowed, in order that
all, the aftive members efpecially, might be
flirred up to an exertion of godly endea-
vours, .for reftoring comely order and dif-
cipline, in divers very weak meetings with-
in their county ; not to be at eafe in their
ceiled houfes, whilft the ark of the tefli-
mony of God was expofed to reproach, by
the defedlion of many under the fame pro-
feffion. It was a good time, and I hope
ferviceable to fome ; yet we could not help
lamenting, that the memorable opportu-
nity v/e lately had at Norwich monthly-
meeting had not made greater imprefTton than
appeared by fome not very agreeable in-
ftances ' in this meeting, relating to their

fully

321 The JOURNAL of

fully uniting for the county's help, as there
was apparent neceflity for the fame. The
24th of the 4th month, we vifited the
quarterly-meeting of Suftblk held at Wood-
bridge, and laid before them in writing
the ftate of their m.onthly-meetings, as the
fame appeared to us in our late viiit, with
fome remarks thereon. Much labour was
beftowed in the free extendings of divine
love, which v/as comfortably Ihed abroad
in that meeting, that friends might be
thereby flirred up to ufe endeavours for a
general reformation, in which fervent la-
bour was beftowed, and clofe admonition
extended to fuch as knew not their own
fpirits fubjedled by the fpirit of Chrift, but
dared to prefume to move and acl in the affairs
of the church of God, by the ftrength of
their own underftandings as men: thefe, not
having true zeal, can wink at wrong things,
great difofders, and flagrant unfaithfulnefSj
fmoothing all over, and blending all together
deceitfully, crying Peace, and all is well,
when it is evidently otherwife. Oh, how
doth the Lord abhor fuch unfoundnefs!
furely then his people fliould fee the w^eight
and authority of his power ftanding over
fuch. A principal caufe of defolation and
wafte in the houfe and heritage of God, is
the want of more prepared (tones for the
building, hew^n and poliflied in the moun-
tain. But great inconveniency arifes, when
feme are made ufe of as flones for the

building,

JOHN GRIFFITH. 323

building, in their natural flate, which ren-
ders them unfit materials to eredl a houfe
for the glory of God to abide in ; fo that
what fuch build, is nothing but a habita-
tion for anti-chrift to dwell in; for he will
content himfelf in any form of religion,
whilft he can keep the power out of it.
His firfl fubtile working in the myftery of
iniquity is, to perfuade the minds of men,
there is no need of any more power and wif-
dom than they have as men; that if they
will exert their endeavour, they may be
"ufeful members ; thus withdrawing gra-
dually from the fountain of living water, to
hew out cifterns to themfelves which will
hold no water. Oh, how dry and infipid
are all their religious performances ! and
what they -do, is only to beget in their own
image, carnal lifelefs profeffors like them-
felves; thefe are very apt to be doing,
being aWays furniflied; but the true la-
bourers muft, in every meeting, and upon
all occafions that offer for fervice, receive
fupernatural aid and the renewed under-
ftanding, by the immediate defcendings of
heavenly wifdom and power, or they dare not
meddle. Where there are but two or three
in each monthly- meeting, carefully abiding
in an holy dependance upon God, to be fur-
niflied for his work, great things may be
done by his mighty power, in and through
them. This is evident, by obferving the
ftate of meetings where fuch dwell, though
T n all

324 The JOURNAL of

all is not done they could ardently defire, as
praifcd be the Lord, there are many yet up
and down, who know and experimentally
feel their fufEciency for every fervice in
the church to be of God. The 28th of
the 4th month, we attended the quarterly-
meeting I belong to, held at Coggelhall,
for the county of Eifex. Having drawn up
the ftate of the feveral monthly-meetings in
writing, with remarks thereon, it was laid
before this meeting; much folid and
weighty endeavours being ufed for a gene-
ral reformation, by the earneft labour of
our friends on the vifit, w^hich was very
edifying and comfortable to the honeft-
hearted amongft us. We drew up a fum-
mary account of the ftate ot the fbciety in
the counties before-mentioned, and our fa-
tisfa6tion in that folemn undertaking; with
thankful acknowledgment of the Lord's
gracious affiftance through the whole, which
was read in the yearly-meeting, 1761. Be-
fore I clofe this account, it may not be
amifs to fay, that fvich was the effecfl of our
labours in moft or all the monthly-meet-
ings, that committees were appointed of
their own members, to vifit particular
meetings, and alfo individual members, for
their help, as occalion might require. The
quarterly-meetings alfo appointed large
committees to vifit their monthly-meet-
ings and, others, as they found freedom,
for their afliftance. A few days after the

yearly-

JOHN GRIFFITH. 325

yearly- meeting in London, 1761, Thomas
Corbyn, Jofeph Row, and myfelf, fet out,
in company with divers other friends, on
their return from the yearly-meeting, in
order to vilit the monthly and quarterly-
meetings of friends in Yorkiliire, Lincoln-
fliire, Nottinghamfliire, Derbylhire, and
Leicefterfliire; Matthew Mellor joined us
at Oatby, near Leicefter; jofeph Taylor
having concluded to meet us in Yorkihire.
On the 24th of the 5th month, we vifited
Balby monthly-meetiiig, held at Sheffield,
and found, to our comfort, a living body
of friends therein; yet much flacknefs and
defecftion appeared in many members of
mofl ranks. Truth opened and largely
furniflied with wifdom and ftrength, to
lay before them the dangerous confequence
of fome prevailing and undvie liberties.
Thofe advanced in age and profefTion, were
intreated and laboured with in much ear-
neftnefs, to be more zealous and diligent,
in a godly care over themfelves and the
flock ; as thofe that mull fliortly give' ai^
account to the great fliepherd. The 25th
we vifited Pontefradl monthly-meeting, held
at Highflats. Here was a very numerous
body of friends, whofe outward appearance
was very becoming our felf- denying pro-
feffion; and I really believe this plainnefs,
in a confiderable number amongft them^
was the genuine produdl of a well regu-
lated mind ; yet I fear, in too many, it was

more

g26 The JOURNAL of

more the effedl of education, which, however,
I would not condemn, where people are not
prevailed upon by the fubtilty of Satan to
take their reft therein ; fince the form mud
follow the power, and not the power fol-
low the form. We had clofe labour, ia
order to roufe thofe who had fettled down
in a falfe reft, and alfo to promote a better
regulation in fome refpefts ; yet I think it
might be faid that difcipline, in moft of
its branches, was pretty well maintained
in that meeting. It was a time of high
favour; counfel and admonition were plen-
tifully extended. The 27 th we vifited
Brighoufe monthly-meeting, held at Brad-
ford: here Jonathan Raine and William Hird
joined us. This meeting was exceeding large ;
fome flacknefs and defecftion appeared, yet
in the main, difcipline and good order were
well fupported, in divers branches. This
was indeed a time of fignal favour, as the
canopy of divine power and love overflia-
dowed this large aflembly, wherein much
fervent labour was extended, that all might
be brought into, and preferved in, that
humble felf-denying way which leads to
lafting peace and happinefs ; and that none
might reft fatisfied in a form of religion,
without the daily quickenings of heavenly
life, whereby only the daily facrifice can
be offered, and the abomination that makes
defolate kept out of the holy places, viz.
^he heart of man made and preferved holy

bv

JOHN GRIFFITH. 327

by the powerful prefence of God; no lon-
ger can it be fo, than his prefence is there.
The 29th we vifited Knarefborough month-
ly-meeting, held at Rawden. This was
alfo very large, perhaps near five hundred of
both fexes attended, and near as many at
each of the before-mentioned meetings.
Here we found a weighty, folid body of
friends, who were zealoufly concerned to
preferve difcipline and good order on its
ancient bottom ; yet there was alfo a very
heavy, clogging, lifelefs body, at reft in a
profeffion, in whom little or no living con-
cern appeared, to keep undvie liberties out
of their families, and to fhew exemplary
diligence in religious duties. Divine good-
nefs, as at other times, was eminently mani-
fefted, in which, abundance of found ad-
vice, caution, and counfel, were freely ad-
miniftered, wherewith many hearts were
deeply affedled, being made willing to arife,
in order to promote a reformation where
things appeared out of order. The ift of
the 6th month, we vifited Settle monthly-
meeting; a laborious exercifing time it was,
in a deep and painful fenfe of the numbnefs
and formality of too many members, and
the great decay of primitive zeal ; yet,
through the merciful arifing of heavenly
power and wifdom, ability was received to
adminifter fuitable advice, warning, and
counfel, in order to awaken the carelefs,
lukewarm profeflbrs, as well as to extend

comfort

328 The JOURNAL of

comfort and relief for the encouragement of
a fincerely concerned remnant amongft them ;
that fo, what appeared out of the holy-
order of the gofpel, might be regulated.
The 3d of the 6th month, we vifited
Richmond monthly-meeting, held at Aif-
garth ; the number of members here was
very confiderable, yet the life of religion
feemed at a low ebb ; that forrowful miftake,
of imagining themfelves God's people with-
out the real fenfe of the indwelling of his
holy fpirit, and of being the children of A-
braham without the faith and good works of
Abraham, having, I fear, very much pre-
vailed upon the pofterity of faithful wor-
thies who are gone to their reft. In
thofe parts, great flacknefs and defe6lion in
fome very important refpedls appeared in
many, who, through the powerful efficacy
of the everlafting word, were clofely and
very prefTmgly admonilhed to more care and
diligence. Great endeavours were ufed,
that our Chriftian difcipline might be more
duly put in pracftice; a living remnant a-
mongll themfelves, heartily joining with us
in our deep labours for promoting that
falutary end. The 5th, Thirfli monthly-
meeting was vilited by us; Jofeph Taylor
joining us here. We were now leven in
number, which we did not find too many,
the work we were engaged in being very
weighty and laborious. In this meeting, a
remnant were fincerely concerned to main-
tain

JOHN GRIFFITH. 329

tain dlfcipline and good order, in the fpirit
and life thereof; yet great lukewarmnefs
and many deficiencies appeared; an earthly
carnal fpirit having much the afcendency in
parents; rawnefs, infenfibility, and a de-
viation from plainnefs, in divers of the
youth ; which caufed us deep and painful
labour ; yet, through the defcending of
heavenly virtue, w^e v^^ere enabled to i'peak
clofely to their ftates, which, I hope, had
a good effedl on fome of them. This op-
portunity afforded much relief to our fpi-
rits, and we went av/ay with peace. The
8th we vifited Gifborough monthly-meet-
ing, held at Kirbymoorfide ; where a very
large number of members attended, with
an outward appearance becoming our holy
profeffion, and we found a truly concerned
remnant amongft them : but at this, as well
as at other places, we had, with forrow of
heart, to view the great defolation that an
enemy had made in the time of outward
eafe and liberty, which could not prevail
tipon our worthy predecefibrs, by depriving
them of their liberty, in jails and (linking
dungeons, reparation by banifhment and
otherwife, of thofe in the neareft ties and con-
nexion of life; nay, the lofs of all their out-
ward fubflance, and the lives of many, could
not deter them from maintaining their tefti-
mony for God in public worfhip, and other
things; yet he hath mightily prevailed on
many of their iuconfiderate offspring, who

feem

330 The JOURNAL of

feem to have very little befides the liuffe
left to feed upon. Divine goodnefs was
wonderfully extended, in which much fer--
vent labour was beftowed, and an awaken-
ing time it was. The foundation of the
builders upon the fand was fliaken, and
Jefus Chrift, the everlafling rock and fvire
foundation, was exalted, as the only fafe
reft and defence of his people. The nth
we vifited Malton monthly-meeting; the
ftate whereof appeared very low, and things
relating to our difcipline much out of
order; divine goodnefs being near, our
minds were ftrengthened, and our mouths
opened, in earneft endeavours for their help
and recovery; a fmall remnant arnongft
themfelves joining with us herein. I hope
it was a profitable time to fome. The i jth
w^e vifited Scarborough monthly-meeting,
held at Whitby, where, although we found
a fincere remnant with w^hom we had
unity in fpirit, and they had a fatisfacflory
fenfe of our clofe and earneft labours in that
meeting ; yet many under the fame pro-
fefTion were greatly backllidden, and revolted
from the primitive power and purity of that
undefiled religion, which the faithful
amongft us have been, and are led into:
divine counfel ^vas eminently manifefted,
in order to heal their backfliding, and to
bring them into a due fenfe of the weight
and great importance of thofe teftimonies to
the bleffed truth, given to us as a people to

bear.

JOHN GRIFFITH. 331^

bear, wlilcL made good impreflion on fome-;
but others . feemed at fo great a diftance,
that it was hard to make them rightly
ienfible of their true intereft. We departed
from thence with eafe and peace of mind.
The 1 4th J Bridlington monthly-meeting
was held, which was very fmall, and the
life of religion very low 5 but little ability
and judgment to manage the affairs of the
church appeared ; it was therefore our opi-
nion, they were too weak to fublift honour-
ably as a monthly-meeting, and that it
would promote the general good, to join
them to fome other monthly-meeting.
The 17th, Ouftwlck monthly-meeting was
held at HulL Upon the ufual inquiries
it appeared, that much lukewarmnefs and
defedlion had crept in; and for want of * a
godly zeal in moft of the adllve members,
difcipline had not been ftridlly and impar^*
tially maintained, fo that darknefs and weak-
nefs had prevailed. In this mournful itate
of things, our labours were painful and
exerclfmg; yet, through divine afTiftance,
the teftimony of truth in its feveral branch-
es was exalted,, and judgment fet lipon
thofe who had violated the fame* The few
fincere-hearted labourers amongfl them
were earneftly advifed and encouraged to
bear the ark of the teftimony of the Lord
as upon their Ihoulders, in the people's
fight, which I hope had a good effedl.
The 19th, we vifited the monthly-meet-
U u ins:

33- The JOURNAL of

ing of Gave. The appearance of the mem-
bers was plain, yet we found great dead-
nefs and infenfibility amongft them, which
muft be the cafe, where people are content-
ed in an empty form of religion, without
the power of it. Much Chriftian labour
was beftowed in order to kindle a living
zeal; but, alas! little impreffion was made
on fome, yet I hope this vifit was of con-
fiderable fervice to others, and unay tend
to general benefit; but all the increafe is
of the Lord. The 2ifl we vilited York
monthly-meeting, wherein appeared much
want of a lively fenfe of truth on the minds
of adlive members, and divers deficiencies
and fome diforders, had crept in, and re-
mained, by a neglecT: of pJ-oper dealing, and
an exercife of found judgment. Here we
had caufe to fee, as well as at many other
places, that a literal knowledge of our dif-
cipline, without heavenly life influencing
the minds of thofe exercifed therein, bring-
eth nothing effecflually to pafs, to God's
glory, and the edification of his church
and people. Great and deep was our laboiu',
under a weighty fenfe of the divine power,
and alfo of the low, languid ftate of the
church in this city, defiring flie might be
favoured to arife and ihake herfelf from
the duif of the earth, ilrergthi^ning the
things which remain. This finilheei our
vifits to the monthly- meetings in this coun-
ty; and though I have not particularly

mentioned

JOHN G R I F F I T H. 333

ineniioned the opportunities takei> by us in
ieled: meetings of miniflers and elders, yet
we had fuch opportunities in moil or all
the monthly-meetings ; where their queries
were read and anfwered; advice, caution,
oounfel, and reproof alfo, were adminiftered
as Ave found ourfelves led and influenced
thereunto. The 24th of the 6th month,
their quarterly-meeting was held in York,
We had drawn up the flate of their
monthly-meetings, being fourteen in num-
ber, as the fame appeared to us from their
anfwers to the ufual queries, and other in-
quiries made by us in oiu' late viiit to them,
with fundry remarks thereon, particularly
on the great and mournful ilacknefs in, and
negledl of, divine worfliip; efpecially on
week-days, whicli difcovers an indifference
and lukewarmnefs much to be lamented.
Earned labour was bellowed in that great
meeting, to faften the weight and great im-
portance of qualified members, coming
more earneftly and feelingly under a deep
fenfe of the care of the churches ; that fo an
increafe of zeal and diligence may be exer-
cifed throughout; in warning the unruly,
comforting the feeble-minded, and in fup-
porting the weak. It was a folcmn time,
the members being fenfibly affedled with
the great need of a better regulation in di-
vers refpeds ; a large committee was ap-
pointed to vifit and affift the monthly, alio
particular meetings, as they faw^ caufe, in

oj'dcr

334 The JOURNAL of

order to help forward the neceflary work of
reformation. The monthly-meetings alfo,
except one^ in confequence of our viht
appointed committees to vifit particular
meetings and mdividuals, as their way
might open, for the better pvitting in prac-
tice our Chriftian difcipline. In this city,
our friend John Hunt of London, joined
us ; and here wg parted with Jonathan
Raine, Matthew Mellor, and William Hird.
We went next into Lincolnfhire, and on
the 29th of the 6th month, vihted their
monthly-meeting, held at Gainfborough :
here John Oxley of Norwich met us.
Things appeared very low and defective, as
to the difcipline and good order of the
church in this place; the members, in too
general a way, being by indifference and
weaknefs, infenlible of its great worth and
ufefulnefs. Our fpirits were deeply bap-
tized into a fenfe of their ftates, and we re-
ceived ability, with great plainnefs to lay
before them the dangerous confequence of
fuch an unfavoury unfruitful condition, and
the great duty which the members of fo-
ciety owed to God, themfelves, and to one
another, in a religious capacity, which
for the prefent feemed to ajSecl their minds ;
inay the impreflion be lalling ! We had alfo
fome things to offer by way of encourage-
ment, to a few fincere, though weak ones
amongft them. Tlie 2d of the 7th month,
v;e vifited Wainfie'et monthly-n^eeting, find-
ins

JOHN GRIFFITH. 335

ing things diftrelTingly low and much oi\t
of order; and but fev/ who had the caufe
of truth at heart, fo as to mourn becaufe of
the great defolation and wafte made in
the fociety there, by earthly-mindednefs
and other flelhly hberties. Our minds were
deeply engaged that truth might break
through, and foften the minds of thofe
dry, carnal profefTors, who, inftead of help-
ing forward the neceffary work of difci-
pline, were great clogs and hinderances
thereunto, being as dead weights and bur-
dens on the more lively part of the body.
Through the holy efficacy of that pure
life, which gracioufly attended us from
place to place, we were enabled to dif-
charge our confciences at that meeting,
in much plain-dealing, to our own peace
and the comfort and relief of the few up-
right-hearted there. The 4th we vifited
Spalding monthly-meeting; much diforder
and flacknefs appeared alfo at this meeting,
in fome ; others, who w^ould feem to be
fomething in religion, were but too much
like the unfruitful fig-tree, on which, when
it came to be nearly examined, nothing
wai to be found but leaves ; having, like
Ephraim and Demas, forfaken the dew and
tendernefs of their youth, and embraced
this prefent world. Such^ though they re-
tain fomethin? of the outward reiemblance,
cannot prof per in religion, as they are dry
and infipid. In this low, mournful ftate

of

336 The JOURNAL og

of things, truth arofe, and furniflicd with
Aiitable matter and utterance, In plain deal-
ing with formal profeObrs, and proper en-
couragement to fome hopeful yquth and
others, to come up in a more lively zeal
and concern for God's caufe, than had been
maintained of late at that meeting, which I
hope was of good fervice. The 6th we
vifited Lincoln monthly-meeting, held at
Broughton. This meeting appeared in a
very low condition, as to a lively fenfe of
truth; confequently, the difcipline thereof
was not rightly managed, as being done too
much in the will, wifdom, and temper of
man. Some appeared hopeful and tender,
efpecially of a younger rank, to whom, I
hope, our deep and earneft labour amongfl:
them was profitable.

The 8th of the 7th month, the quarterly-
meeting was held at Lincoln; before which
we laid in writing, the languid and difor-
derly flate of the fociety in that county,
with fundry clofe remarks thereon, point-
ing out, in fome meafure, the caufe of the
great declenfion found amongft them. This
was accompained v/ich our joint and earneft
endeavours, to bring the weight of thofe
things upon the members, that they might
feel ii proper engagement of mind to arife,
and repair the breaches made, which had a
good effec5l on fome minds, and a committee
was appointed in order to promote the
work of reformation; which was alfo done

at

JOHN GRIFFITH. 337

at mofl, or all their monthly-meetings.
From Lincoln, John Hunt and Jofeph
Row returned home to London, and John
Oxley to Norwich ; Thomas Corbyn,
Jofeph Taylor, and myfelf, went into Not-
tinghamlhire. The 13th of the 7th month*
we viiited Retford monthly-meeting, as it
was called, wherein we found a few tender
and hopeful, and had fome opennefs to ad-
minifler counfel and advice, tending to
their help and improvement, which appear-
ed to be vv^ell received, and fome minds were
alFedled therewith ; yet very little was dif-
covered by us of difcipline being put in prac-
tice, but almoft every thing relating there-*
to was negle6led. It therefore was our
judgment they ought to be joined to fome
other monthly-meeting, yet their fituation
rendered that fomewhat difficult; however,
we concluded to lay the cafe before their
enfuing quarterly -meeting. The 14th we
vifited Mansfield monthly-meeting, which
alfo appeared very low and weak; but very
little of the bufinefs of a monthly-meeting
properly done, as the number was very
fmall that generally attended them, and iu
moft of them the elTential qualification for
fcrvice in the church of Chrift much want-
ing. It was therefore our judgment, that
it would be for the general good, that?vlanf-
field monthly-meeting Ihould be joined to that
of Chefterfield, except Oxon particular meet-
ing; w^hich from its fituation might better

be

338 The JOURNAL Gi-
be joined to Nottingham. The 1 5th we viiit-
ed Cheilerfield monthly-meeting, wherein
divine goodnefs was Hvingly manifefted, in
order to adminifter proper affiftance, by way
of advice, counfel, and encouragement, to
this fmall, weak meeting, wherein difci-
phne, in divers of its branches, w^as much
negiefted; yet there appeared an opennefs
in the members to be inftru:6led and help-
ed forward in that weighty work, which,
through the ftrength and efficacy of divine
love, was largely extended to them, in
which we had fatisfa6tion of mind. Thq
1 6th we went to Breach, called a monthly-
meeting, but we found it, in that refpedl^
almoft defolate. The teftimony of truth^
fo precious to their anceftors in that place,
was by them fufFered to fall, in mod of its
branches ; but few of thofe who were adlive
members, appeared clear in its fupport.
Darknefs had greatly prevailed over their
minds, yet our deep labour, under the in-
iSuence of heavenly good^ had a tendering
efFe(5l upon fome of them. One thing aimed
at by us, was, that the members of that
meeting might be joined to the monthly-
meeting of Nottingham, they being unfit
to remain in their prefent condition, which
was confented to by them, a minute made,
and fome of their members appointed to
propofe the fime to Nottingham meet-
ing. The 17th we vifited Nottingham
monthly-meeting; the number here was

pretty

JOHN GRIFFITH. 339

jpretty large, but the pure virtue of heaven-
ly goodnefs, (without the fenlible experi-
ence whereof there can be no profperity in
the truth,) feemed to be much deprelTed
and obftrudled by earthly-mindednefs, cover-
ed over with a form of religion in fome
heads of families, by whom undue liberties
were winked at in their offspring: fuch not
having zeal enough to fupprefs wrong things
in their own families, are not like to pro-
mote good order and difcipline in the
church. We found fome who united v^rith
us in a deep and earneft labour for a better
regulation, arid triuch found admonition,
caution, and cdunfel, were adminiftered^
which feemed (at leaft for the prefent) to
have an awakening eiFe6t on fome. On the
20th of the 7th month the quarterly- meet-
ing was held at Nottingham, and, as we un-
derftood, a juncflion of that, and the quar-
terly-meeting of Derby fhire, was agreed on
between them, and fhortly to be complet-
ed. We drew up the ftate of the monthly-
meetings in both the faid counties, as the
fame appeared to us in our late vifit, with
fundry remarks on the mournful declenfion
found amongd them ; pointing out to them,
in fome meafure, what we apprehended to
have been the caufc thereof, that thofe con-
cerned might both examine themfelves
and be more watchful, in order to prevent
fnch confequences for the future: which
v\ras read in this meeting, and endeavours
X X ufed

340 The JOURNAL of

ufed verbally alfo, chat the meeting might
come under a folid fenfe of the ftate of their
monthly- meetings, that proper affiftance
might be extended for a general reforma-
tion. But, alas ! there were but few amongtl;
them enough devoted, heartily to engage
in io good and neceflary a work ; however,
we were enabled to clear ourfelves, by
leaving the weight of things upon them,
and to depart with eafe and fweet peace of
mind. All praifes and humble thankfgiv-
ings to our holy head, for his gracious and
comfortable fupport, in our deep exercifes'
and labour from place to place. For, alas!
we fliould fooQ have fainted under the
weight of that painful fervice, had he been
pleafed to withdraw, even but for a little
time; but we found him a never- failing
fountain of all we flood in need of, and
when our fervice for this time was over,
we could not fay we lacked, any thing. The
21 ft of the 7th month we v^ifited Caftle-
Dunington monthly-meeting in Leicefter-
Ihire, wherein divine favour was lary-elv
extended, in which we received ftrength to
labour earneftly, for the reviving of a living
concern in the members, that difcipline
and good order might be better maintained,
which, through the indifference of fome,
and the backward, cowardly difpolition of
others, was but poorly fupported in fun-
dry refpecfts ; yet this opportunity feemed
to have a good eHecl, by a confidcrable

reach

JOHN GRIFFITH. 341

reach upon many of their minds, and I hope
may prove of great advantage to that meet-
ing, as the members thereof feemed rather
weak than wilful. The 24th \vq vifired
Hinkley monthly-meeting, which, as to
the fupport of difcipline and gofpel order,
appeared to us almoft defolate. Our earneft
labour for their help and recovery had
little vifible impreffion on fome of their
members, the infenfibillty was fo great;
thougli others were avv^akened to a degree
of feeling and tendernefs, who, I hope,
received fome benefit thereby. The beft
expedient that appeared to us, was their
being joined to Leicefter monthly-meeting,
which was accordingly recommended. The
25th we vifited Dalby monthly-meeting;
and as it appeared in the fame ftate as that
of Hinkley laft mentioned, I fliali refer to
that account, and only fay, we advifed it
fnould be joined to the monthly-meeting of
Caftle-Dunington, except a fmall branch
thereof, which lay contiguous to Leicefter.
The 27th we vifited Oakham m.onthly-
meeting, where much flacknefs and indif-
ference appeared, too many of the adive
members being at eafe in a profeffion, whilft
wrong things prevailed, and death inftead
of life, overlhadowed their meetings. The
Lord engaged us in a deep and fervent la-
bour, to llir them up, that they might
arife and fhake themfelves from the duft
and clogging things of the earth, to receive

th-

342 The JOURNAL of

the eye-falve of God's kingdom, whereby
they might come to fee their own ftate as
individual members, and alfo the general
ftate of the church. Oh, how aihamed
would fome then be, of their poverty and
nakednefs ! We found a few amongft them
in a humble, teachable frame of mind,
with whom we had good fatisfaftion, hope-
ing this opportunity might tend to their
help and improvement in the beft things.
The 28 th we vifited Leicefter monthly -
meeting, in which we found fome honeft
labourers for Sion's profperity, and truth
opened our way, as at other places, to look
carefully into the ftate of things, and to
apply" fuitable counfel and advice, as the
fame immediately opened, for the reftoring
good order and wholefome difcipline, which
appeared too much negledled; and I hope
that opportunity was of good fervice to
that meeting.

On the 29th of the 7th month the quar-
terly-meeting for the county was held at
Leicefter, before which, we laid in writing
the ftate of their monthly-meetings, as the
fame appeared to us in pur late vilit, with
fuch remarks thereon, as feemed to us pro-
per and neceflary; and were deeply con-
cerned, to bring the weighty fenfe of
their great declenfion upon the fpirits
of the acSive members, and the great
xiecciTity of a fpeedy exertion of their Chrii-
tiau endeavours for a regulation, left a ge-
neral

JOHN GRIFFITH. 34s

neral defolation fliould enfue. But, alas!
the ftupefadlion was fo great in this as well
as other places, that it was hard laborious
work; yet not without hope of a revival,
as fome concerned members were, by the
overfliadowing of divine power, made wil-
ling to give up their names, to contribute
their endeavours for carrying on the necef-
fary work of reformation, fb happily begun
in the yearly-meeting. Here ended our
vifit to monthly and quarterly-meetings for
the prefent; and I have, with deep reve-
rence, humbly to acknowledge, that a re-
markable evidence of divine approbation
attended us throughout; making us of one
heart, by the baptifm of his unerring fpirit,
fo that fcarcely a difference of fentimentfrom
one another appeared during the whole
journey. Another thing which appeared to
me a token of divine favour attending, was
the open reception we met with, notwitli-
ftanding the plainnefs ufed by us, in verv
clofe fearching inquiries and remarks \ipon
many diforders, I hope my ufual freedom,
in laying open the Hates of the monthly-
raeetings, will give no juft caufe of offence
to any who wiih well to Sion, fmce no-
thing is more likely to flrike the minds of
fucceeding generations with fear and care,
than to have the lukewarmneis and defec-
tion of many, who have been fo v\Tjnder-
fully favoured, fct in a true light before
them, together with fuch a remarkable ac-
count

344 The JOURNAL a?

count of the Lord's compaffion and con-
defcending kindnefs, in feeking their re-
floration, and offering his mercy to heal all
their backilidings. How can any, without
being ibmewhat affedled with fear, read the
forrowful degeneracy of fome Chriftian
churches, even in the apoflles days; like
the firfl-fruits in the gofpel vineyard; par-
ticularly that of the feven churches in Afia
Minor, difcovered to the beloved John, in
his ftate of banilhment for the word of God
and the teftimony of Jefus Chrift, and by
him with great plainnefs committed to
writing, as a call and warning from God
to them, and to remain, for the fame end,
to all fucceeding generations ? I have no
other end in what I have written concern-
ing the ftate of our fociety; for whofe help
and prefervation I have been freely given up
in body, foul, and fpirit, as well as in what
outward fubftance the Lord hath bounti-
fully favoured me with, to contribute my
fmall endeavours, that her light may go
forth as brightnefs, and her falvation as a
lamp that burns.

A fummary account of this vifit and fer-
vice was drawn up by us, and read in the
yearly-meeting 1762, as was done the year
before, when engaged in a fervice of the
like nature. A like vifit was alfo per-
formed by other friends, who had, fince
the yearly-meeting 1761, engaged therein
in different parts, whereby it appeared, all

tiie

JOHN GRIFFITH. 345

the monthly and qviarterly-meetings, in that
part of Great-Britain properly called Eng-
land, had then been vifited; which, as far
as appeared, had been performed to general
fatisfacftion. The yearly-meeting then re-
commended to the friends appointed in 1 760,
the care of extending the fame brotherly
afTiflance to the meetings of our friends
in Wales, Scotland, and Ireland, as their
way might open in gofpel freedom. Neither
did the yearly-iTieeting omit fending a
warm, lively epiftle to thofe already vifit-
ed, to corroborate, revive, and ftrengthen
the great labour beftowed, that the fame
might be made effectual. I fhall now clofe
this narrative with juft adding, that I have
found by folid experience, that it was a
bleffed work, and greatly bleffed in the
carrying on. May it be fo in the fruits
arifing therefrom, is the fincere defire of
my foul !

The 2ifl of the 8th month, 1762, I fet
out, in order to vifit London and fome other
parts, and on firft-day the 22d, I went to
Ratcliff meeting in the morning, where I
had clofe, thorough fervice ; truth and its
tefhimony having confiderable dominion ; it
was an awakening time to carelefs profef-
fors, and of refrefhlng confolation to Sion's
travellers, of w^hom I believe there was a
confiderable number there; I had with
fatisfacftion to believe that meeting was ou
the improving hand. I went in the after-
noon

346 The JOURNAL of

noon to Horflydown; this was a tiiiie of
deep travail and painful labour, as the life
of religion feeraed to be greatly deprefled,
by much indifference of mind in many, and
the prevalence of flefhly liberties in others ;
yet through infinite condefcenfion, at length
the power and virtue of truth arofe, where-
by the teftimony thereof was exalted over
wrong things. On the fecond-day follow-
ing I attended the morning meeting, and
went on fourth-day to their monthly-meet-
ing at the Peel, in which, through the ex-
tending of heavenly good, I had open,
edifying fervice; friends being favoured
with a degree of that holy leaven, which,
as it is abode in, preferves the feveral mem-
bers of one heart and one mind. Oh,
then the work goes fweetly on, the body
edifying itfelf in love, as well as with one
voice giving forth found judgment againft
wrong things! On firft-day, the 29th, I
went in the morning to Weftmlnfter, which
was a very open good meeting, the telli-
mony of truth went forth freely and
largely, wifdom being given to divide the
word aright, fo that the difobedient we're
warned, and the mourners in Sion com-
forted. I went in the afternoon to the
Peel meeting, which was large and very la-
borious, in a fuffering filence throughout;
which, in fympathy with the depreffed feed
of God's kingdom, and for an example to
the profeffors thereof, appeared to be my

proper

JOHN GRIFFITH. 347

proper bufinefs at that time. I attended
the morning meeting on lecond-day, and
went on 3d day to Flaiitow week-day meet-
ing, in which I had ibme cloie fervice;
but things, as to the life of religion, ap-
peared to me low there, where tlie profef-
fors of truth neglect a conilant labour for
daily bread. 1 fpent that afternoon and
the next day, chiefly on a vifit to our wor-
thy friend John Hayward, who appeared
green in old age. On fifth-day, the 2d
of the 9th month, I went to Tottenham ;
there beinq; two confiderable friends fchools,
oile for boys, and the other for girls. By
the free opening of the living fountain, it
was a very precious, comfortable meeting,
doiftrine and counfel being plentifully hand-
ed forth, fuitably adapted to the childrens
w^eak capacities, as well as to thofe of riper
age: through the divine bleffing, it was a
time of high favour and humble refrefh-
nient to the upright in heart.. " That after-
noon I had a very comfortable reviving
time with our friend Jofiah Forfter ancl
family, he being in a very poor ftate of
health, in appearance not likely to conti-
nue long in this vvorld ; he, with much
tenderneis, expreiTed great fatisfaclion in
that opportunity. On fixth-day, the 3d, I
went to Gracechurch-Street meeting, which
was low and laborious ; it appeared my
proper bufinefs to fit in filence. On firft-
day, the 5th, I went to Gracechurch-Street
Y y ia

348 The JOURNAL of

in the morning, where tlie meeting was ex-
ceeding large, and for a time, very trying
and painful ; yet in the latter part, it pleafed
the i.ord to arife, and his enemies were
fcattered; then was truth exalted, and its
teftimony went forth freely, having great
dominion. In the afternoon, I went to the
Peel meeting, where I had large, open fer-
vlce, and truth was over all; it being a time
of much comfort and relief to the lincere-
hearted. Next day I was at the monthly
morning-meeting of minifters and elders,
fo called becaufe the members more gene-
rally attend, efpecially the women. It was
a bleffed time, wherein I had open good
fervice, lliewing the great difference be-
tv<^een the minifters of the letter and thofe
of the fpirit: that the letter w^ithout the
fpirit, though of the holy fcripture itfelf,
kills that which is begotten of God in the
hearts of people; but that it is the holy
power, efficacy, and demonftration of the
eternal fpirit, that renders the holy fcrip-
ture, outward miniftry, and all other means
ordained of God, for the comfort, help,
and prefervation of his people, effedlual.
I had to obferve, that the minifters of the
letter were moft of all concerned for the
external appearance of their miniftry, viz.
that the words and dodlrine may Be curioufly
adapted, not to difguft, but rather to pleafe
thofe who have itching ears; on the con-
trary, the minifters of the fpirit are leaft

of

JOHN GRIFFITH. 349

of all concerned about the outward appear-
ance of their miniftry; having no doubt,
if they are careful in the fpring, ground,
and moving caufe, which they know fliould
be the conflraining power of the holy fpirit,
that will alfo be agreeable thereiuito ; feeing
that power is able to render the moft low
and (imple expreffion, in man's account,
exceedingly efficacious. On third-day, the
-jth, I fet out, accompanied by feveral
friends, in order to have a meeting that
afternoon at Charleywood ; it was a time
of awakening labour, not eafily I hope to be
forgot. On fourth-day, the 8th, I had a
precious, open, ferviceable meeting, at
Jordan's in the morning ; it was a time of
general awakening, at leafl to a prefent fenfe
of duty: that afternoon I had a painful
laborious meeting at Uxbridge, and what
made it more afliidling, was, that the gof-
pel endeavours ufed for the help and reco-
very of lukewarm profelTors, feemed to take
very little effedl upon their minds. On
fourth-day, the 8th, I went to Staines
meeting, which, in the fore-part, was a
time of very heavy, painful, filers-, labour;
in which, as at many other times on the
like occafion, I fully expedled the cloud
and diftrefs would, remain, till we feparated
one from another; yet near the conclufion,
through infinite condefcenfion, truth arole
and obtained a complete vicflory over w^'ong
t;hings ; their ftates being fpoken to with

great

350 The JOURNAL of

great plainnefs ; but, alas ! things, as to the
life of religion, feemed but low amongft
moll of all ranks there. I went next day
to a meeting at Godalmin, which proved
a time of much favour, in the fweet and
precious enjoyment of the confolating
ft: earns of that river, which maketh glad
the whole city of God ; in the blelTed
efficacy whereof, the doctrines of truth
were largely opened, fetting forth the na-
ture of faith, l^^P^j ai"^d charity; but
the greateft of all is charity, as faith
will be fwallowed up in open vifion, and
hope in the full enjoyment ; but charity
never fails nor changes its nature, being
the fame in time and in eternity. On
firft-day, the 12th, I was at Alton meet-
ing, in Hampihire, where we had a very
large and precious baptizing meeting ; in
the morning, the teftimony of truth had
great dominion, and the living members
were fweetly comforted together. The af-
ternoon meeting there was very heavy and
laborious, and held in filence. I had a very
open facisfadlory meeting at Elher, on third-
day the 14th, and another at Wandfworth
the next day ; after which 1 went to Lon-
don, and the next day, being the i6th of
the 9th month, I returned home, finding
my dear wife and family well : having,
through infinite kindnefs, been much fa-
voured in my fervice this fmall journey,
and found more opennefs in the ci::y of
London than heretofore. It v/as with great

comfort

JOHN GRIFFITH. 351

comfort I had to fee a growing hidden rem-
nant in that city, who will be exalted in
Ifrael in the Lord's time ; who hath, and
will yet open a way . more and more, for
his pained travelling children to exalt his
name and truth, by removing the flumbling
blocks and other impediments which yet
remain in their way, and hinders them m
fome meafme, from taking the rule and go-
vernment, wdiich is their due and rii^htin the
kingdom of Chrift ; and ufurpers fliall (ee,
none can lit with Chnll upon thrones, but
thofe who faithfully follow him in the re-
generation, agreeable to his gracious pro-
mife, viz. Mat. xix. 28. and Luke xxii. 30.

To this period of time, being now \a
the fiftieth year of my age, I have continued
an account of divers occurrences of my life,
labours, and experience; with fuudry ob-
fervations on the ftate of the Chrilliaa io-
ciety of which I am a member; and though
done in a way of plain dealing, yet in truth
and fincerity, as my mind hath been im-
nxediately led and opened thereunto. Let
none therefore take any undue advantages
thereby to reproach the fame: no fociety
of Chriftians, that I have ever had any know-
ledge of, hath any advantage of this peo-
ple, either in principle or praclice. Here
I intend to lay afide my pen, not know-
ing that time or ability will be given to
add any more, which is all in the Lord's
hand; to whom I humbly commit this,

with

35i The JOURNAL of

with my foxil and body, for prefer vation,
during the fliort fpace of time he may be
pleafed yet to lengthen my days ; befeeching
his blefling may attend what is done ; with-
out which, our endeavours are fruitlefs,
for all the increafe is in and by him, who
is glorious in holinefs, and fearful in praife.
To whom be dominion and glory, through
all ages and generations. Amen.

From the year 1762, to the 7th month
1765, I have preferved no particular me-
morandum of my travels and fervice that
I can at prefent find, and although I tra-
velled no conliderable journies, yet, as I
always thought it my incumbent duty, from
my firft acquaintance with God*s everlaft-
ing truth, I diligently attended meetings
when at home and well, both firft and week
days, alfo the quarterly and yearly-meet-
ings, as they fell in courfe; as well as fome
adjacent quarterly and other meetings. In
the year 1764, I attended the yearly-meet-
ings of Colchefter, Woodbridge, and Nor-
wich, to good fatisfacflion and comfort,
being favoured with free open fervice there-
in, efpecially the two laft. In the fame
year, having an inclination to vifit London
and fome parts adjacent, as my way might
open ; and likcwife having a manufcript by
me, which I had written about two years be-
fore, intitled. Some Brief Remarks upon fun-
dry important Siibje£is^ <^'C. divers friends
whole judgment I valued, having perufed

it,

JOHN GRIFFITH. 353

It, expreffed their unity therewith, gene-
rally apprehending there might be a fer-
vice in making the fame publick; being
thus encouraged, I laid it before the fecond-
day morning meeting of Lc^ndon, a%is ufual
in fuch cafes ; I attended the revifmg of it
for the moft part: friends agreed it fliould
be printed, which was accordingly done.
It was afterwards reprinted here, in Ireland,
and in America.

^ Having had a vi-ew, flor feveral years, of
vifiting^ friends in the American Colonies,
as I waited with earneft defires to be rightly
direcTted in fo folemn and weighty an under-
taking, both as to the thing itfelf and the
proper time to enter thereupon, I was fa-
voured with clear and full fatisf idion, in
both refpeds ; and had feen, for a confider-
able time, that I fhould embarl: for that
fervice foon after our yearly-meeting 1765:
this I efteemed a particular favour, as I had
thereby the better opportunity to order my
outward affairs timely, fo as I m'ight, with
more freedom and eafe, leave the.jn fo long
a time; yet, except to my wii:c and two
or three friends, who were eilajoined fe-
crefy, I kept all to myfelf, till about the
time it became neceffary to lay 1 ny concern
before the monthly-meeting 'of; wdiich I
was a member: which I did, and readily
obtained their concurrence, and a certificate
very fully expreffive of their unity; which
€ertificate I carried to our quarterly-meet-
ing.

354 The JOURNAL of

ing, laying the flime, with my faid con-
cerr:, before that meeting ; I aifo obtained
their ready concurrence, fignified by an in-
dorfement on the monthly-meeting certifi-
cate'; itvhich certificate and indorfement,
together with my concern, I laid before the
yearly-meeting of minifters and elders in
London, and after a time of weighty con-
fideration, friends drew up and figned a cer-
tificate of their full unity with me, and my
intended undertaking. The ready and una-
nimous concurrence of my much efteemed
friends, was a great ftrength and comfort to
me in my entering upon and throughout
this folemn engagement. I was very fen-
fible it was of fuch a nature, that the whole
body of friends were deeply interefled in
the right and proper performance thereof;
and there Fore found my mind much refigned
to the divine will, and to the determina-
tion of his people. I returned home from
the yearly-meeting, to complete the fet-
dement of my outward affairs, having part-
ly concluded, with divine permiflion, to
embark ini a fhip likely to fail in two or
three weeks. I went to our quarterly and
yearly-meeting at Colchefler: where, being
taken very ill of a fever, I returned home
with my wife in a poft-chaife, being unable
to ride on horfe-back. I was confined to
my chamber about ten days ; • this put an
intire Hop to all preparations for my intend-
ed voyage; which, on account of my illnefs,

I had

JOHN GRIFFITH. 355

I had wholly given over the expedlation of,
as to the before-mentioned fliip ; but when
I recovered, fo as to be able to move a
little about, my mind did not feem eafy to
let that fliip go away without me. I there-
upon wrote to the merchants or owners,
who I knew were delirous I ihould go in
her, to know what time they could allow
me to get ready; their anfwer was, about
ten days: the time was ihort, and I was
very weak in body, and had fome affairs of
confequence to fettle which would take
Ibme time; however, the will being good,
i fet about them in earned, and beyond
expeclation fucceeded therein, recovered
flrength apace, and got through my affairs
in time to fatisfadlion. I could not help
looking upon this a providential fuccefs,
as it was far beyond human probability:
the Lord, in his deahng v/ith us his poor
dependant creatures, fometimes brings us
very low, baffling all our fldll and contri-
vance, that he may clearly fhew us, that
our fuccefs in fpiritual things, and even in
temporals alfo, is by his providence.

On the 9th day of the 7th month, 1765,
I took leave of my dear wife and family, and
accompanied by ievcral friends, went to meet
the fhip at Gravefend, where we were met by
about fifteen or fixteen friends from Lon-
don ; we dined togedier, and lodged there
that night. Next day, being the loth of
the 7th month, I took leave of friends in
Z z muc]|.

356 The JOURNAL of

much tender afFecllon, and went on board
the CaroUna, James Friend mafter, bound
for Philadelphia. We sot under ili'il about
eleven o'clock, but it was near a week be-
fore we took our departure from the Land's-
End of E-ngland. We had, for a few days,
a pretty fair w^ind, and a good fet-of from
the land ; yet on our paflage we had a great
deal of contrary winds, ^nd often a head
fea, z\bout the 9th and loth of the 8th
month, and for Ibme time before, things
had but a very difcouraging afped, having
got but a little on our way for about twenty
days; moft of the company feemed to be
affecied v/ith fadnefs on that account : at
the fame time I had a ftrong perfuafion of
mind, that the wind would turn in our fa-
vour before night, and had almpft an in-
clination to have told them fo, in order to
cheer their fpirits, but was fearful of pre-
fuming too much upon the certainty of
what had prefented to my view, left I
Ihould prove a falfe prophet, and thereby
bring dilhonour to the good caufe; how-
ever, it proved true, and held favourable
to us a confiderable time, fo that we failed
next day feven or eight miles an hour
the right way. The 21ft of the 8th month
we found ourfelves upon one of the banks
of Newfoundland, having about twenty-
eight fathom wa*-er. It was fome fatif-
fatftion to find* ourfelves fo far on our way ;
I was favoured with very good health, and a

good

JOHN GRIFFITH. 357

good appetite all the time, and, through di-
vine favour, generally with a quiet refigned
mind, having full fatisfadlion that I was in
my place. The captain was very fleady,
and well qualified for his ftation, and very
kind to me; the palTengers alfo v\-ere gene-
rally civil in their behaviour, though they
often burdened and wearied my fpirit with
their trifling, vain, empty difcourfes, in
which I could not join, but was rather a
reprover and a weight againfl them, which
1 am perfuaded they frequently felt, and I
am fenfibJe I was a confiderable awe upon
them ; yet I thought it was prudent, as we
were confined in one another's company, to
uphold a family refpecl. I often reproved
their vanity and corrupt converfation, and
was enabled, in a good degree, to bring
judgment over them, fo that fome would
own I was right. Alas, I had forrowfully to
obferve, by their manner of converfation,
how empty, \ain, trifling, and even cor-
rupt, the converfation of thofe efleemed the
genteel and polite part of mankind, in our
day, is become; little or nothing to be
found therein, that conveys folid, profita-
ble inftrucfliion, either in things relating to
this life or the next, but in general it tends
to deprave and corrupt : yet many thus void
of felf-denial and government of their
tongues, pretend, with great aflTurance, to lay
undeniable claim to the holy and undefiled
rqligion of Jefus Chrift; furely, they do

not;

353 The JOURNAL of

not give tliemfelves any time to think feri-
oufly about the nature of that religion, and
mufl conclude, the name and profciTion
without the fpirit and life, is all they arc
to look for, except adhering to a few ex-
terior obfervations : fuch grofs darknefs and
Itupefaction is much to be lamented, but
very hard to be helped when they are fo
ignorant of their own flates.

k was the loth of the 9th month, early
in the morning, that we firft fi\w land,
which proved to be Cape Henlopen; abou'c
{ix o'clock we got a pilot on board, who was
a native Indian; about nine vfe entered
the Capes of the D^i^ aware, with the tide
beginning to make in our favour; about
eleven our ihip flruck the ground three
times, but ioon got off. We had fine wind
and weather, which made it exceeding plea-
fant failing up the bay and river; we got
up v/ith that tide, wichin about fix leagues
of the city. Next day, about eleven
o'clock, we came to an anchor before the city
of PiiihwJelphia. I foon landed and went
dire6lly to my old quarters, being very
kindly received as form.erly, by my much
efleemed friends Ifaac and Sarali Zane. I
was about nine weeks on board the fliip in
all, and about eight from land to land. I
attended their week-day meeting on fifth-
day, and had fome good open fervice there-
in. I went on firfl-day to the great meet-
ing, where perhaps was prefent, near, if

not

JOHN GRIFFITH. 359

not quite, 1500 friends, or thofe under our
profeffion; m^ bufinels among them at that
time feemed to be to fet them an example
of iilence. I had, with fecret lanientation,
to view their remarkable declenfion from
a true fpirltual exercife, which appeared to
me but too general, looking for words to
feed upon; 1 found that craving was to be
difappointed and famiilied, and therefore
was often fliut up from public fervice a-
mongfc them, efpecially at the great houfe,
though I had fonie very clear, open, power-
ful times, an the bleffed light and life of
the everlafting gofpel, there aifo. On fixrh-
day, the 20th of the g.th month, I croiicd
the river Delaware, and went to Haddon-
field quarterly-meeting, which was very
large, and I was largely opened to declare
the truth amongft them with good authority,
I returned next day to the city, and attended,
the yearly-meeting of minifters and elders ;
things feemed but low: this yearly-meet-
ing, which was very large, concluded on
fixth-day. It was in a good degree favour-
ed with divine wifdom and ftrength, where-
in friends were enabled to confider and con-
clude fome weighty affairs with unanimity
and brotherly love. The Lord was graci-
oufly with me, affording wifdom and
ftrength to be ferviceable at this meeting,
both in miniflry and difcipline, wherein I
liad f;?v'eet peace and comfort. I wisnt the
firft'day following to Springfield-meeting,

ia

300 The JOURNAL of

in Chefter county, where I had very open
weighty fervice, and the bleffed truth pre-
vailed. In the evening I had a comfortable
meeting with a fick friend at Derby, who
foon after departed this life. I then re-
turned to Philadelphia, and attended both
their week-day meetings, which were pain-
fully laborious in a filent travail. On fixth-
day went to their monthly-meeting, and
was livingly opened therein, to fhew the
rea&n why the church of Chrift is com-
pared to a human body, conlifting of many
and various members ; I had good fervice
alio in the meeting of bufinefs. Their num-
ber is very large, but many appeared to me
weak and unikilful as to the proper qua-
lifications of acftive members in the church,
fbme of them did not appear to be re-
deemed from fear, favour, and affection in
judgment. I had great comfort in the la-
bour of this day. On third-day, the i ft of
the loth month, I had a very large meet-
ing at Haddonfield, in Weft-Jeriey; the
word was given, with clearnefs and gofpel
authority, and I had to iliew the power and
efficacy of true faith, and the weaknefs and
infufficiency of an hiftorical or implicit
faith: it was a good time, and the glori-
ous truth was exalted. I then went to
Chefter; the meeting was very large, and
I had clofe, thorough fervice therein, on the
fubjcdl of felf- denial and taking tip the
daily crofs. On fifth-day, had a very large

meeting

JOHN GRIFFITH. 361

meeting at Evefham, and had therein
weighty fervice, on the nature of that new-
birth, without which no man can fee the
kingdom of God; moft of the auditory
feemed much fcrangers thereto, which made
the labour heavier, yet wifdom was mer-
cifully given to divide the word to this
numerous aifembly, about the fpace of two
hours. Next day I had a very thronged
meeting at Mount-Holly, in New-Jerley;
my labour in the miniflry was very clofe
and fearching, to good fatisfailion. On
firil-day, the 6th of the loth month, was
at Burlington meeting, and had an open
time; alfo at their monthly-meeting on the
iecond-day following, which was very large;
I was livingly • opened upon thefe w^ords,
" Pray without ceafing, and in every thing
" give thanks;" alfo fliewing, that the
power of the word of life ought to be the
fpring of atflion in the church of Chrift.
On third-day, accompanied by divers friends,
I croifed the river Delaware, and had a
meeting at Briftol, in Pennfylvania; it v/as
a fmail poor meeting, I laboured according
to ability received, to flir up the members
to a more lively concern, but things ap-
peared very low. On fourth-day 1 had a
large meeting at the Falls ; it was very la-
borious, under a fenfe of a dry, lifelefs
Hate in too many, and the inconiiflent con-
dufl of others ; efpecially in that of exceP-
five drinking, which I felt to caufe a very

ill

362 The journal of

ill favour: I was informed after, it had great-
ly prevailed upon many in that meeting,
and that divers of them who were there
^that day, had been dilbwned on that ac-
count. Next day 1 had a large meeting at
Wright's- town; I was opened therein, to
ihew the fimilarity between the travels of
the foul towards fpiritual Canaan, and
thofe of the Ifraelites toAvards the outward
Canaan. It was a clofe awakening time to
dry, formal profeflbrs. On fixth-day, I
had an exceeding large meeting at Buck-
ingham; to this great gathering the ever-
laiting gofpel was powerfully preached, and
the end and deiign of true miniftry fet
forth ; this was a bleifed time of divine re-
frefhment, to the rejoicing of many hearts,
and roufing, I hope, of the lukewarm, in a
good degree. After this meeting, I felt it
in my mind to fpeak to TKomas Rofs,
a friend in the miniftry of that county, to
bear me company to the fouthern provinces,
which he, after due confideration and ob-
taining his friends concurrence and certifi-
cate, complied with; and not only that
journey, but alfo to New-England, &c. fo
that I was favoured with the agreeable
company of this valuable friend, through
molt of my American travels, which was
to my great comfort. On firft-day, the
13th of the loth month, I was at North-
Wales meeting, which was very large, and
was favoured with a thorough open time,

to

JOHN GRIFFITH. ^63

to the tendering of many hearts. The day
following had a large meeting at Plymouth;
I was opened upon that paffage, " Believe not
*' every fpirit/' &c. had dole work with li-
bertines, fuch as are commonly called free-
thinkers, and was carried over them: truth
and its teftimony was greatly exalted and
triumphed over that fpirit, and other wrong
things. On third-day, had a large meet-
ing at Horfliam, and was powerfully open-
ed on the words of the prophet Joel,
viz. " I will pour out my fpirit upon all
*' flefh," &c. with fome clofe remarks to
thofe who reft fatisfied with a mere profef-
fion. After meeting, came a feventh-day
Baptifl to the friend's houfe where I was;
and if I had fuiFered it, would have led me
out into a wide field of argument, for which
I had neither time nor inclination; he ad-
vanced feveral points, but I kept him fo
clofe to fome of them that he was foon
foiled, he found my method of arguing fo
different from his ; he being for a multitude
of words and a great deal of ramble, and
I was for but a few words clofe to the
point, backed with clear fcripture proof,
fo we had quickly done; he feemed willing
to drop it, and fb was I, for fuch are fo
full of notion and fo fixed t;herein, that
the cleared reafoning feems thrown away
upon them. On fourth-day had a very large
meeting at Abington, the place which I
belonged to in my youthful days, and where
A a a I was

364 The journal of

I was firft, through infinite mercy, brought
to the knowledge of tlie ever-bleflfed truth ;
and where my mouth was firPc opened above
thirty years before, in a pubhc teflimony„
A dark cloud feemed painfully over the
meeting in the fore part, yet at length truth
pi-evailed, and utterance was largely given
to declare the docflrine tliereof, ihewing that
the children of Ifrael feared the Lord all
the. days of Jofluia, and of the elders that
out-lived him. It was a very awakening
time, and many appeared to be pretty much
affccled. Next day I had a fmall meeting
at Frankfort, things appeared very low and
dark for a time, yet at lengeh, wifdom and
utterance were given upon thefe words,
" Man being in honour, and abiding not
^* therein, is like the beaft that periflieth/'
There feemed a want of a living concern in
tiie general. Next day had a large meet-
ing at German- town J this was a dark pain-
ful time in the fore part ; truth meafurably
arofe, and the word was given, viz,
" Let God arife, that his enemies may be
*' fcattered/' Went after meeting to Phi-
ladelphia, and on ift day, the 20th of the
loth month, over Schuylkill, to Merion
meeting ; things appeared exceeding low, as
to the life of religion; I was concerned to
call them to work while it is day, and it was
a clofe fearching time. On fecond-day I
went to the burial of a valuable friend at
Derby, the fame with whom 1 had a meet-
ing

JOHN GRIFFITH. 365

ing before-mentioned ; the ifieeting was
very large, and there was great opennefs to
declare the truth with clearnefs and divine
authority, even to the confounding liber-
tines and gainfayers, of whom I fear there
is a confiderable number in that place: this
feemed to me the moil favoured time I had
had fmce I landed, and being alfo at the
meeting I formerly belonged to for many
years, it was a precious renewal of that
fweet unity fome of us had enjoyed toge-
ther many times formerly in that place.
Next day I went to Philadelphia; and the
firft-day following to Newtown meeting,
in Chefter county, where I had very fearch-
ing laborious fervice; things appeared to
me mournfully low, as to the life of reli-
gion, many being at eafe in a profeffioa
thereof. I went next day to the month-
ly-meeting at Providence, and had fome
good edifying fervice to the poor in fpirit ;
things appeared very low and heavy in the
meeting for buiinefs. On third-day I had
a large meeting at Radnor, and laboured to
convince them that there is fome thing ii^
religion befides the form and outward pro-
feffion, but few feemed to me alive there-
in. On fourth-day went to Haverford
meeting; I was opened upon the words of
the apoftle, viz. '* Great is the myftery of
*' godlinefs; God manifefted in the flelh."
It was a good time, though the profefTors
are but few, and in a poor weak ft ate. I

went

g66 The JOURNAL of

went on fifth-day to the monthly-meeting at
Derby, the life of religion leemed very much
depreffed; I was filent as to miniflry, but
had fome fervice in the meeting of bufineis,
and returned to the city that night. I had
been indifpofed fome days pail^ and in
much pain with a kind of flux; took fome
medicine on fixth-day, and was foon better.
Next day I went to their quarterly-meeting
of miniflers and elders, where I was living-
ly opened on that pafTage, '' Him that over-
*' Cometh, I will make a pillar in the hoiife
*' of my God," &c. Shewing, that the
beafl and the falfe prophet mull be over-
come, before we can fland with fafety and
approbation in the great work of the mi-
iiiflry. This quarterly-meeting ended on
third -day, at the feveral fittings of which
I had good open fervice, particularly at the
Bank meeting on firft-day afternoon,
file wing that thofe who are more willing
to receive than to make fuitable returns,
are neither fo honed nor grateful as they
ought to be; and on third- day, at the great
houfe, being the youths meeting, which
was very large, concerning the nature and
necefTity of Chrifl's baptifin vv^ith the Holy
Ghofl and fire ; there was great flowing of
love and enlargement of heart to the young
people that way. On fourth-day I was at
a meeting appointed for the poor negroes,
and had open good fervice amongft them, in
^he free flowing of univerfal love, wherein

I was

JOHN GRIFFITH. 367

I was enabled to open unto them the way
of Hfe and lalvation ; divers of them ap-
peared to be affedled and tendered; it was a
comfortable time. On fifth-day I was at
a marriage in the city, and largely opened
upon thefe words, viz. '' The bleffing of
*' God mak ch truly rich," &c. Shewing,
there is no real happinefs in any ftation of.
life without it. It was a good time, for
truth prevailed,

I fet out on fixth-day, the 8 th of the
loth month, on my intended journey to-
ward$ Maryland, Virginia, and Carolina;
and went that night to my brother-in-law,
Micajah Speakman's, at Concord. Next
day began their quarterly-meeting : through
divine favour, I had thorough fervice at
the three meetings held there; on feventh-
day, at the.m^eeting of minifters and elders,
I was livingly opened upon theie words
of Chrift, " The difciple is not above his
*' mafter, nor the fervant above his Lord;"
alfo, concerning what was declared of
Chrift, " That in his humiliation, his judg-
*' meat wa§ taken away," &c*. That it
is not to be wondered at, if our judgment
in the truth is taken away at times, that
we may fee who is the giver of it ; it was
an effedlual reaching time. On firft-day I
was mournfully aifeded with a diftrefilng
fenle of the apoftacy of many in that meet-
ing.

f A^s viii, 33.

368 The JOURNAL of

ing, from the life and power of religion; I
had a very clofe awakening time, and trvith
mercifully prevailed. On fecond-day I was
largely opened with good authority, on
thefe and other words, "He that cometh
*' after me, muft firft deny himfelf," &c.
Great weaknefs and want of living concern
was felt in that exceeding large meeting,
and too much leaning to their own under-
ftanding, yet a faitliful remnant is pre-
ferved ; I was favoured to be ferviceable in
the meeting of bufinefs. I took Birming^
ham and Kennet meetings, in my way tg
the quarterly-meeting at London-Grove;
thefe were very large, and I had deep fearch-
ing fervice at them ; but, alas 1 the life and
power of religion is mournfully departed
from by great numbers in that highly fa-
voured land. On feventh-day, tUe i6tlx
of the nth month, I w^ent to the quarterr
ly-meeting of mlnifters and elders at Lon-
don-Grove; it was a very painful diftreffing
time; great barrennefs and carnality appear-
ed to have prevailed in too many in thofe
ftations, which was caufe of fore lamenta-
tion: my public; fervice amonglt them
was in much clofe plain-dealing, Ihewing,
" that to be carnally-minded is death; and
^^ that the natural man underflandeth not
*' the things of the fpirit of God." Here
my intended companion, Thomas Rofs, met
me. On firft-day the meeting was very
large; I had a clofe fearching time, parti-

cularly

JOHN GRIFFITH. 369

cularly to fome who flood in the foremofl:
rank ; my fpirit '' was much diftrefled in
viewing the great defolation made by the
prevalence of many evils. On fecond-day
I had large thorough fervice to the various
ftates of the members, and alfo in the meet-
ing of bufinefs, which appeared to be well
conducted; ibme fkilful members being
principally engaged therein. On third-day
the meeting was very large, and through
divine favour, I was ralfed in much ftrengtli
and clearnefs to divide the word amongft
them; fhev/ing, *' That the children of
'* Ifrael feared the Lord all the days of
'^ Jofhua, and of the elders that out-lived
'' Jofiiua, who had feen the wonders of the
'' Lord." I was opened largely upon the
degeneracy of our Ibcicty, and with great
weight and dread, I had to fignify, that
the judgments of the Lord would be poured
out upon them, and that what they had yet
{ctn^ was but like the beginning of forrows,
that the ftroke would fall upon their idols,
their worldly enjoyments. It came before
me many times, that the fruits of the earth
would be fmitten, whereby there w^ould be
a fore famine in the land, and that judg-
ments, much heavier than they had yet
known, would fall upon them; it feemed
to me various ways, of which the fword
would be one. It was an exceeding awful
deep-fearching time as ever I knew; I hope
not eafily to be forgotten. Next day I went

to

370 The JOURNAL of

to Sadfbury monthly- meeting, where Fhad
fatisfadlory fervice, both in the miniftry and
difcipline. On fixth-day we had a meeting
at Lancafter; divers not under onr name
came to it; my concern therein was to en-
deavour to open to the underftanding of the
people, what true reUgion is: we had a
pretty fatisfadlory meeting at Ifaac White-
lock's in the evening. On feventh-day, we
crofTed Sufquehanna, at Wright's- Ferry,
and next day went to Newbury meet-
ing; fecond-day to Warrington; third-
day to Huntington ; fourth-day to Monallen ;
at all which places, I had clofe thorough
fervice; found things, as to the life of
religion, very low amongft friends ; yet a
remnant was preferved fenfible from whence
good comes. We went from thence into
Maryland, and had fmall meetings at Pipe-
Creek, and Bufli-Creek ; friends were few in
number, and feemed low in religious expe-
rience. From thence, fording over the great
river Patowmack, we entered the province of
Virginia, and on third-day, the 3d of the 1 2th
month, we had a very large meeting at Fair-
fax: truth opened do6lrine and counfel
largely, fhewing, that two things- are eflen-
tial to the very being of a true Chriftian,
viz. The faving experimental knowledge of
God, and the knowledge of ourfelves ; the
laft being the natural confequence of the
firfl : it was a highly favoured time, and the
living were fweetly comforted. Next day

I had

JOHN GRIFFITH. 371

1 had a large meeting at Goofe-Creek; it
was an exceeding dark affiidling time : my
mind was deeply impreffed with a fenfe of
a corrupt, blafting miniftry being amongft
them; aiid the people having itching ears,
loved to have it fo; this was fo ftrong upon
my mind, that I feared for fome time I fhould
have been under a neceffity of declarimg it
publicly in the meetings I was an intire
ftranger, and did not know by any out-
ward information, that they had any who
appeared in public. After meeting, I took
fome of the elderly friends afide, and told
them how it had been with me, as above,
for I was filent the whole meeting; I was
informed afterwards, that there was a for-
ward unruly man, who had given fenfible
friends much trouble in feveral places, and
had been much laboured with by way of ad-
vice, to refrain from his public appearance ;
that he had for fome time fettled within the
compafs of that remote meeting, and was
encouraged by many of the members, to
the great uneafinefs of fome others. That
afternoon I put what was upon my mind
in relation thereto, with a few remarks
thereon, in writing, and fent it to fome
friends of that meeting, but never heard
what effedl it had. In our way to Opeckan,
we had a fmall meeting at a place called the
Gap, where gofpel docftrine, fhewing the
way and means of falvation by Jefus Chrift,
was freelv and largely preached. On firftr
"^ ' B b b day,

372 The JOURNAL ok

day, the 8th of the 12th month, we went
to Hopewell meeting; it was an exceeding
dark, affiicling time; great infenfibihty and
lukewarmnefs appeared in almoft a general
way ; I was led in as cloie, plain-dealing,
and feaixhing a manner, as ever I remem-
ber. The third-day following we had a
large meeting at Crooked-Run, both friends
and many others attended. My mind was
exceedingly low the morning of that day, be-
ing lately let out on a great journey, and my
horfe was fallen very lame, and it feemed un-
likely that I could be fupplied with a fuitable
one in thofe back parts : what to do I could
not tell ; the more I thought about my dif-
trefled condition, the more I funk and was
perplexed. In this difconfolate ftate, I
went to the meeting : to fee fuch a number
of other focieties, and fome of them of high
rank by their appearance, ftill added to my
diftrefs in this weak ftate, greatly fearing
the blelTed truth Ihould be difhonoured
through me; yet as I endeavoured to look
fingly to the Lord, he was gracioully pleafed
to be a prefent help in the needful time,
and appeared to my foul, as it were in an
inftant, as a clear morning without clouds.
An heavenly time I had, upon thefe words.
*' Truft in the Lord, and lean not to thine
*' own underftanding ;*' fnewing clearly,
that the foul's falvation was of God and
not by, human ability: the oil of glad-
nefs ran fweetiy. Next day, my horie

being

JOHN GRIFFITH. 373

:being unexpecfledly recovered of his lame-
nefs, we fet out on our' long journey to^
wards Carolina, and he continued well all
the time. I write this for the encourage-
ment of fome poor travellers into whofe
hands this may fall. After three days tra-
i^elling, we had two poor frnall meetings,
where the life of religion feemed to be al-
nioft, if not wholly loil, viz. Gamp -Creek
and Foj'k-Creek; we had but little fatis-
;faclion in our gofpel labours, and endea-
vours to revive true religion in thefe poor
places. From Fork-Creek, to the firft
meeting we had in the back fettlements of
North-Carolina, was about 235 miles. In
our way thither, we had four fmall poor
meetings, viz. Jenito, Amelia, and Ban-
nilter, and a meeting at Kirl)y's, on the
banks of Dan- River: to fome of . them,
many of other Ibcieties came, and gofpel
dodlrine was opened largely for their help
and information; in which labour there
was ^good latisfac^ion ; but alas ! few under
our name in thofe parts, let the true light
ihine before men, but were moft of them
as ftumbling blocks in the w^iy of ferious
inquirers : w^e w^ere enabled to clear our
minds to them, and proceeded on our jour-
ney. On the 29th of the 12th month, we *
went to New-Garden meeting, in North-
Carolina, which was very large, and moftly
of profelTors with us : a thick, dark cloud
pver-lbadowed the fore- part of that meet-
in o-

374 The JOURNAL of

ing, and it was a painful, diftreffing time;
moft of them feemed as afleep, (i Thef. v.
6, 7.) in the night; yet at length, through
merciful kindnefs, truth prevailed in a good
degree, and a clofe awakening time it was,
and many feemed to be reached and tendered
by the virtue of truth, and 1 found great eafe
and liberty of fpirit after meeting. On
fecond-day we had a large meeting at peep-
River, moftly of profefTors with us, but they
appeared io generally void of a fpiritual con-
cern, that there appeared to me no room
for truth to arife into dominion. I found
it my place to fit the whole time in filence,
which, I believe, was no fmall difappoint-
ment. On fourth-day, there being a mar-
riage, we went to New-Garden again;
wifdom and utterance were giveu to fpeak
largely and with good demonftration, in a
very fearching manner to their ftates. On
fifth-day we had a meeting at Centre; it
was extremely cold, and, as fome obferv-
ed, the like had not been known there in
the memory of man; and being quite an
open meeting-houfe, and very little of any
thing to be felt amongft them of religi-
ous warmth, it was really a diftreffing time
inwardly and outwardly ; yet, throiigr. di-
vine favour, I was preferved in a good de-
gree of refignation. Next day we had a
Imall meeting at Rocky-River. I could
find very little of the wreftling feed there-
in; we flit the whole meeting filent, yet a

friend

JOHN GRIFF I TH. 375

friend had fomething to offer very fuitable
to their ftates. On feventh-day we went
to their monthly-meeting at Cane-Creek;
this was large, but moft of the members
leemed void of a folid fenfe and folem-
nity ; a fpirit of felf-righteoufnefs and con-
tention was painfully felt; the leaven of
the Pharifee leemed to prevail, and the few
living fenfible members were borne down
and difcouraged: moft of the meeting of
worfhip was held in filence ; yet towards
the conclufion, fome very clofe remarks
were delivered to their ftates, and very plain
dealing in the meeting of bufinefs. It feems
to me, that when affairs of importance come
before fuch a meeting, they are very likely
to be perplexed and made worfe by ill ma-
nagement, which I have reafon to believe
has been much the cafe in that meeting. I
am perfuaded many of thofe under our
name have removed out of Pennfylvania
and other places to thofe parts, in their
own wills, having taken counfel of their
own depraved hearts, and when they hav^
got thither, have fet up for fomething in
the church ; but it feemed to me moft of
them were very unfit for the fpiritual build-
ing, not having been hewn in the mount.
We went to their meeting on firft-day, but
there was much darknefs and death over
them ; I found it my duty to lit the whole
meeting in filence. On fecond-day wc went
to the Spring- meeting; I was led therein

largely

376 The JOURNAL of

largely to fpeak upon the fubjecfl of water*
baptiim, which I wondered much at, as
not knowing of any being there who did
not profefs Math us ; for as people in gene-
ral in thofe parts, clothe in a mean way,
the difference is not great in their drefs
and appearance. After meeting, I under-
flood that the Baptifts gained ground much
that way, and even had prevailed on fome
of our fociety to join with them, and
that their teacher was there; and alfo a
woman brought up amongft us, who thought
it was her duty to be baptized, but her
hufband oppofed it; and that the Baptift
preacher took her and her hufband into the
meeting- houfe, when the people were gone,
to undo (as it was fuppofed) that day's
work, or to prevent its having effedl upon
the woman : it was a time of great favour,
and the one faving baptifm was exalted
above all types, figns and fliadows. Next day
we had a fmall, poor meeting at the Haw-
field's ; and on fourth-day we had a meet^
ing at Eno, wdiich was the laft we had in
the upper fettlement: this was a labori-
ous meeting, by clofe, plain-dealing Avith
wrong fpirits, for which, we underllood
afterwards, there was a caufe. On the 9th
t)f the I ft month, 1.766, we fet out, hav-
ing two guides, for the lower fettlements
of North Carolina, being about 200 miles,
and had but two fmall meetings in the way,
viz. Richfquare, and at one Stephen's; at

the

JOHN GRIFFITH. 377

the firft, many of other focieties came in ;
the gofpel was freely declared with good au-
thority and clearnefs, to the reaching of di-
vers prefent: at the other place there feemed
to be very little, either form orfubftance; we
were quite fliut up as to miniftry. We got
to our friend Thomas Newby's, at Plney-
woods, on third-day, the 14th, being
pretty much fatigued, we refted a few days
there. On feventh-day we went to the
funeral of a woman friend, and had a m.eet-
ing; after a time of deep wading, the word
was given in counfel and fearching doc-
trine, to their dates, who feemed moftly
to be fettled in a mere form and profeffion:
after meeting we went to our friend Thomas
Nicholfon's. The firft-day following we
were at Little-River meeting, which was
large, but very low and dark in the fore-
part; the profelTors we felt were much at
eafe and in a ftate of indifferency ; yet at
length, in great mercy, the bleffed power
of truth arofe, and afforded counfel and
docftrine fuited to their flate. It was a
fearching time, I hope not eafily to be for-
gotten. On third-day had a large meeting at
Simon's-Creek ; through divine favour gof-
pel truths were opened there, with clearnefs
and good demonftration, to the affecT:ing of
many hearts. Next day had a meeting at
Newbegun, which was pretty large and
open. On fifth-day we had a very large
meeting at Oldneck, near the centre of

friends

J78 Thk journal of

friends in this fettlenient, and others catnc
together in abundance. I was fhut vip the
whole time in filence, which I apprehended
they had not been much ufed to. Next
day we had a large meeting at Wells, iii
which I had a clofe learching time ; but,
alas ! it feemed to me that the profefTors of
truth here-about, are many of them far gone
from a lively {enfe of true religion, and are
become harder to reach than people of other
focieties. On firfl-day, the 26th of the
I ft month, we had a very large meeting at
Ringwood's, it being the laft we were to
have in Carolina ; fome friends came to it,
I believe, from all the other meetings, with
many of other focieties: at firft it was a
time of painful travail, but at length the
great M after was pleafed to give wifdoni
and ftrength, in gofpel authority to open
the ftate of the fociety in thofe parts, and
to divide to them feverally ; alfo to fliew,
that in every difpenfation of God to man,
he was pleafed to give to thofe who are
iincerely attentive, clear evidence of his
will, and approbation of their obedience;
it was a highly favoured time, which, I
hope, will not foon be forgotten. Next day
w^e travelled into Virginia, and on third-
day had a meeting at Somerton's ; the doc-
trine of truth was largely opened, and fome
very cloie remarks on the ftate of our fo-
ciety; many others alfo being prefent: the
veftimony had a confiderable reach. Next

day

JOHN GRIFFITH. 379

day we had a large meeting at the Wefterrt
Branch of Nancemund: thofe under our
profelTion appeared too generally unac-
quainted with the work of religion upon
their heax'ts; many weighty truths were
clofely delivered, but did not feem to take
fo much effect upon the minds of many, as
could have been defired.

On fifth- day we had a large meeting at
Black-Water; the greateft number of Ne-
groes were at it that I ever fliw at a meet-
ing not appointed on purpofe for them:
this was a highly favoured time; the ever-
lafting gofpel was preached with clearnefs
and good demonftration, fliewing, that the
inward and fpiritual knowledge of God,
is the fubftance of true religion; and that,
according to the prophet, this knowledge
was to cover the earth as the waters cover
the fea. I had great fatisfadlion and comfort
in the labour of that day. We went frora
hence to the quarterly-meeting at Black-
Creek; the number here was large, but,
alas ! great deadnefs, infenfibility, and dark-
nefs were felt to prevail among ft them ;
clofe labour, in great plainnefs, was ufed,
fhewing the caufe thereof: amongll other
things, that which appeared none of the leafl;
was their keeping the negroes in perpetual
flavery. I was often concerned to ufe plain-
nefs in families where I went, in refpedl to
this matter, and am fatisfied truth will
never profjper amongft them, nor any others.

380 The journal of

who are in the pradlice of keeping this
race of mankind in bondage. It is too
nianifeft to be denievl, that the life of reli-
gion is almofl loft where flaves are very-
numerous ; and it is impofTible it fliould be
otherwife, the pracflice being as contrary to
the fpirit of Chriftianity as light is to
darknefs. Through divine favour, the tefli-
mony of truth prevails againft it in mofl
of the American colonies, efpecially in
Pennfylvania and the Jerfeys. We took
meetings from this place at Burleigh, Pe-
terlburg, at Curl's, over James's River,
Wain-Oak, John Crew's, Black-Creek, and
the Swamp; moft of which were very la-
borious, in a forrowful {enfc that the life
of religion was too generally departed from ;
yet in all of them, except Wain-Oak, a
degree of wifdoin and utterance was given,
to labour in the love of the gofpel for
their help and recovery; which I hope was
not altogether in vain. The next meet-
ings we went to were Cedar-Creek, and
Caroline, being the laft we had in Virginia,
they were large ; not only thofe under our
profeflion attended, but alfo many others,
as was often the cafe in thefe parts. I think
it may be truly faid, thefe were memorable
meetings: the gofpel was preached in the
demonftration of the fpirit and with power,
which appeared to reach and tender many
if not moft prefent, and my mind was com-
fortably relieved from that painful weight

of

JOHN GRIFFITH. 381

of death and darknefs which moftly attend-
ed it in thefe greatly corrupted colonies.
On fifth-day, the 13th of the 2d month,
we fet out for Maryland, croffing Rappaba-
nock-River at Port-Royal., and Patowmack,
about three miles over, at How*s-Ferry.
We got to Weft-River meeting on firft-
day, the i6th of the 2d month. We found
very little if any thing in that meeting,
of that fimplicity and felf-denial fo con-
fpicuous in our ancients ; but a conformity
to the falhions and corrupt cuftoms of a
vain world. The gofpel power arofe, giv-
ing ability to fet forth the nature of Chrif-
tianity, and how far the profeffbrs had de-
viated therefrom in life and pra6lice. The
judgment of truth was fet over libertines
and unfaithful profelTors thereof. The next
meetings we had, were at Indian-Spring,
Sandy- Spring, Elkridge, Patapfco, Gun-
Powder, Little-Falls, Bufli-River, and
Deer-Creek; we were alfo at Deer-Creek
monthly-meeting next day: in all which
meetings, ability was mercifully given, to
divide the word fuitably to the various
ftates, which feemed, in a general way,
much out of the order, aiid from under
the government of truth; yet the labour
tended to folid fatisfadlion and peace; I
hope it may be reniembered by fome to ad-
vantage.

Thus having vifited the weftern fliore of
Maryland, we ci'oITed the great river Suf-

quehanna

j82 The JOURNAL of

quehanna, and went to the houfe of our friend
John Churchman, near Eaft Nottingham.
On firft-day, the 2d of the 3d month, we
went to that meeting, which was very large^
the profellors of truth being numerous here-
about; to this great allembly, the goijpel
of life and falvation was powerfully preach-
ed, Ihewing the force of truth, how it
gained the general aflent of people, yet few
were concerned to know the fame in ex-
perience or pradlice. It was a highly fa-
voured time, and the meeting feemed to
be generally aflecfled. From Nottingham
we went to the following meetings, viz.
New-Garden, HockelTon, Center, and Ken-*
net, which were moftly large, abiuidance
flocking to them from adjacent meetings.
The travail of fpirit in thefe meetings was
very deep and painful \ much diftreffing flat-
nefs and infenfibility were felt; yet, through
merciful help, truth prevailed and largely
opened do6lrine and counfel fuitable to
their fiates ; fhewing, there \% not the leaft
grounds to hope for happinefs in a future
Hate, unlefs true religion becomes the prin-
cipal concern of the mind ; and abundance
more, in the free extendings of gofpel life
and power, to the reaching of many hearts :
everlaflingly adored, reverenced, and wor-
ihipped, be infinite condefcending love.
Amen I

From Kennet . I went home with my
filler Speakman to Concord, and ,fl:aid

there

JOHN GRIFFITH. 383

there one night, and iiext day to Golhen
monthly-nieciing, which was very large;
there was a great body of friends, generally
under a plain appearance ; but, alas ! it pro-
ved a painful, gloomy time of filent travail
to me, the Mvhole time of worfhip ; and
through the meeting of bulinefs, though in
a good degree regularly and decently con-
duded, the cloud flill remained ; this I am
perfuaded was occafioned by the lukewarm
carelefs ftaie of many members; there is
great want of that living concern and holy
ardour of foul, which tlie Lord is often
pleafed to own in our religious meetings.
The members engaging in his work, with-
out his prefence to animate and endow with
heavenly wifdom, cannot fail of caufing
thick darknefs, which may be felt by thofe
who are truly alive and have their fpiritual
fenfes exercifed. After meeting, my valu-
able companion, Thomas Rofs and I part-
ed for the prefent, he returning home, and
I flaid Gofiien meeting, on firft-day, the
9th of the 3d month. It was very large,
and in the fore-part low and cloudy; yet
at length I was favoured with a degree of
faith, which enabled me to ftand up, and
as I continued in patience, I found an in-
creafe, with conliderable enlargement to
fpeak clofely to their feveral ftates, from
thefe words, " Truft in the Lord with all
*' thy heart, and lean not to thine own un-
'' derftanding." But, alas! very many of

them

384 The journal of

them feemed to be far gone into the fplrlt
of the world, and at eafe in a profeffion;
fo that inftead of Goflien being a land of
light, darknefs hath prevailed in a forrow-
ful degree, and many are not fenfible of it
to lament it. I went from thence to Phi-
ladelphia, taking Derby meeting in my way ;
got thither on fixth-day, the 14th of the
3d month, having been on this journey
abmit four months. I was received with
affecSionate kindnefs by my friends in that
city, and attended three meetings on the
firfl-day following; at two of which I
was filent, as was often my lot there,
I believe to difappoint and famifh the un-
fandlified defires and cravings of many after
words. I attended their week-day meet-
ings, and had confiderable fervice therein.
On feventh-day began their general Spring-
meeting, which ended on third-day follow-
ing ; fome of thofe large meetings were held
moftly in filence. I had then, as has often
been the cafe, a deep travail upon my fpirit,
that the people might be led by the exam-
ple of minifters and elders, to find the
comfort and advantage of true filent wor-
fliip, every one coming to fit under their
own vine and under their own fig-tree,
where none could make them afraid. I
had, notwithftanding, at fome of them,
good, open, public fervice. I flaid in
the city till their monthly-meeting was

over

JOHN GRIFFITH. 385

over on fixth-day, where I had fome clofe
fervice, and then went to the yearly-meet-
ing at Wilmington, and was at four meet-
ings in two days. At three of them, the
truths of the gofpel were largely and with
clearnefs declared, to much fatisfacftion and
comfort, I returned towards the city, at-
tending Derby monthly-meeting in my
way, where things appeared mournfully
low; fome of the a(flive members feeming
veiy unfkilful in the management of the
difcipline: earned labour was beftowed,
but I thought it had very little effedl. On
fixth-day I went to the children's meeting
in the city ; I fuppofe there were atout 200
in all, of both fexes. On firfl-day, the
6th of the 4th month, in company with
feveral friends, I crofTed Delaware, at Glou-
cefter-Foint : the wind blowing very hard,
it appeared dangerous; yet the boatmen be-
ing very careful, through mercy we got
well over, and went to Woodbury meet-*
ing, which was very large, and the gofpel
power livingly arofe, wherein many weighty
truths were delivered, lliewing the great
ufe of that propenfity in man of feeking
after happinefs, if rightly direded; alfo,
wherein true happinefs confifts, and how
to attain the fame. It was a good time,
through the gracious extendings of merci-
ful regard. I went home with my near
friend Ifaac Andrews, who bore me com-
pany this journey, three or four weeks in

the

386 The JOURNAL op

the Jerfeys; we had meetings that week at
Upper Greenwich, Piles-Grove, at the head
of Alloway's-Creek, Salem, and Alloway's-
Creek; thefe meetings were moftly large;
great kikewarmnefs and infenfibility were
painfully felt, many feeming to reft in
only profeffing the religion of their educa-
tion; for thefe I had a deep concern and
travail of mind, that they might come to
know Chrift formed in them. The Lord
w^as gracioufly pleafed, in great kmdnefs
and condefcenfion, to furnifli with matter
and utterance in an awakening nianner, in
order to make them fenfible of the nature
and importance of true religion and wor-
fhip : may it not be in vain ! On firft-day,
the 13th of the 4th month, we went to
Greenwich meeting; the glorious gofpel-
power eminently manifefted itfelf that day,
by clearly opening divers weighty points
of dodlrine, fuitable to the various ftates of
that large auditory; among other things,
Ihewing that the true and faving know-
ledge of God, whereby we obtain the right
knowledge of ourfelves, is elTential to the
very being of a real Chrlftian ; and by what
means that knowledge is obtained. It was
a highly favoured time, for the Lord's
heavenly power was over all, and the peo-
ple appeared to be generally affecfled. Next
day we had a large meeting among the
Prefbyterians, at a place called New-Eng-
land Town; their minifter having conde-

fcended

JOHN GRIFFITH, ^ 3^^;

fcended to give notice the day before from
the pulpit, of a meeting for vis ; he attend-
ed it himfelf, with, I fuppofe, moft of
his hearers, who behaved folid and refpe<5l-
ful. The univerfal love of God, tlirough
Chrift, to mankind, was largely fet forth,
and people direcfled from outward obfer-
vations, to the fubflance, whereby viiftory
might be obtained over fin: it was a fa-
voured time, and the people feemed gene-
rally well afFedled and very loving, though
divers things were delivered which are
ufually controverted between us and thofe
people; there was no vilible oppofition,
but all pafTed off quiet and peaceable. On
fourth-day we travelled a day's journey
through the Pine-barren wildernefs, to
Cape-May; we had one meeting there,
and two at Great Egg- Harbour. We found
the number of profelTors fmall, and things,
as to the life of religion, low; yet we
were enabled to adminifter fuitably to their
ftates for their help and recovery, and had
a good degree of fatisfadlion and peace
therein. On thii?d-day, the 2 2d of the
4th month, we had a large meeting at Lit-
tle Egg-Harbour; after a time of trying
pcHterty and deep travail, gofpel life and
power mercifully arofe, in which, dodlrine
and C4)unfel flowed forth freely to divers
ftates, particularly to a libertine youth.
Next day we had a meeting in a new
Prefbyterian meeting-houfe, near Barnag:att -
Ddd {[

388 The JOURNAL of

it was a large meeting, and held more than
an hour in filence, which the people were
not accuftomed to. At length the word
was given with authority and clearnefs,
fliewing the neceffity and advantage of
filence in worfliip, and diftinguifhing Chrif-
tians of the letter from Chriftians of the
fpirit, as alfo minifters of the letter from
minifters of the fpirit ; and that tliofe who
are always ready to preach, muft either have
the fpirit at command, or a(5l without it.
It was a great and good time; the people
appeared to be generally afFedled, and all
paifed off quietly, without any oppofition.
We travelled on by the fea-fide, to a place
called Good-Luck, where we found a large
meeting-houfe eredled though not quite
finiflied, by one Thomas Potter, intended
by him, it feems, for all preachers to make
ufe of who would preach freely, except
Papifts, who would not be admitted even on
thofe terms ; we had a meeting in it, but
notice not coming timely, nor Thomas
Potter being at home himfelf, it was fmall
and to little fatisfacflion. We met him that
afternoon on his return, he feemed fbrry he
happened to be out at that time ; he fees
beyond hireling miniftry, and I underftand,
inclines moft to friends of any, but joins
to none. On fixth-day we had a poor, low
meeting, at Monefquan; I doubt, but
very few therein were alive in religion;
ibme gofpeWabours were beftowed for their

help.

JOHN GRIFFITH, 389

help. We went after meeting to Shr^wf-
bury, intending to be at their quarterly-
meeting, which begun on firft-day, the
27th of the 4th month. It was exceed-
ing large; fonae folid friends were prefent,
alfo many loofe, libertine people under our
name, and of other focieties. In that fad
mixture, the life of religion was exceed-
ingly depreffed, ^nd my mind in fympathy
with it: I could not wade through to get
eafe and fatisfaclion that day, though I la-
boured very hard. Next day the meeting
was very large, the power of truth in mar-
Tellous kindnefs arofe, and the gofpel was
preached with good authority and clearnefs,
to the various ftates of that great auditory.
The meeting of bufinefs followed; there
feemed btit little judgment to maintain good
order and difcipline: unity appeared not fo
general as could have been defired. On
third-day abundance of people flocked to
meeting, perhaps with much expectation;
but my way was fhut up as to miniftry,
and but very little from any other; I
found peace and fatisfaction by abiding in
my place. On fifth-day I went to Chefter^
field monthly-meeting; it was very large,
and I had deep and painful wading therein,
in my public fervice, fhewing what man is
by nature, whatever mode or form of reli-
gion he decks and adorns himfelf withal ;
for that which is born of the flefh is but
iMti, and cannot fee the kii||[dom of God.

I got

390 The JOURNAL or

I got through at laft to a pretty good de-
gree of fatisfadlion, but found much clofe
labour in the meeting of bufinefs, and faw
great deviation from the right thing, in
fome high ruHng members, who had car-
ried an affair through that meeting againft
the moft hvely part of the body, which
they 'themfelves had fufficient caufe to re-
pent. On lixth and feventh-days, I had
meetings at Upper-Freehold, and New-
Springfield, and on firft-day, the 4th of
the 5th month, had a very large meeting at
Mansfield in, the morning, and another at
Borden-Town in the evening. The people
feemed full of expedation from one come
fp far; but it pleafed the great Mailer,
without whofe gracious aid the? poor fer-
vant can do nothing to advantage, to fhut
me wholly up as to miniflry, in both
places, to the great difappointment of many ;
but there was no remedy; I durft not con-
trive or form any thing for them : how-
ever, I have no doubt, but filence was the
mLoft profitable leflbn for thofe meetings.
I went next day to Burlington monthly-
meeting, it was large and divinely favour-
ed; the doctrine of truth flowed forth
freely, fliewiiag what it is to be a fellow-
citizen with the faints and of the houfhold
of faith. On third-day I had a laborious
meeting at Ancocas, yet had ibnie good,
open fervice towards the latter-end, which
feemed to faiRn 0{i divers minds. I got to

Philadelphia

JOHN GRIFFITH. 391

Philadelphia next day, and on fifth-day,
the 8th of the 5th month, went to the mar-
riage of John Pembei ton, and Hannah, the
daughter of my worthy friends Ifaac and
Sarah Zane. It was at the great meeting-houfe,
being large, and there appeared too much
defire and expedlation after words, which
often hurts meetings and blocks up the
way of minifters, which feemed the cafe
now for a while; yet at length fome, I
hope profitable labour was bellowed, from
the words of our Lord, ** BlefTed are they
" that hunger and thirft after righteouf-
*' nefs." On firft-day, the nth of the
5th month, I attended three large meet-
ings in the city, in all which, I thought
it my duty to fet an example of filence.
Near the clofe of the evening meeting, it
was ^ fweet refrefhing time; the thirfty foul
had to drink of that river that maketh glad
the whole city of God; in the enjoyment
whereof, there was comfortable folacing
reft from the painful labour of tlxat day,
and full fatisfadlion, with thankfulnefs that
I had been preferved in my place. I ftaid
their week-day meeting on third-day, which
was large ; the power and wiidom of truth
opened deep counfel and doclrinc, pointing
out the different ftates of profeifors in that
city, that fome of the true wrefliing feed
dare not choofe or contrive for themfelves,
which way to be fed ; wluether immediately
by the great Shepherd's own hand, or inltru-

mentally

392 The JOURNAL of

mentally by his fervants; and that there
were many others anxioufly choofing to be
fed with teftimonies and outward declarati-
ons, which (late ought to befamifhed; alfo,
that the time would come, when the word
of the Lord, by way of miniftry, would be
vei^ precious, and he would command the
clouds to rain no rain upcm fuch ; that it
was already a time of parching drought,
becaufe of idolatry ; yet the LQ|-d would
open fprings to the feed of Jacob, in the
midft of the vallies, and in his own time
bring them to Rehoboth. It was a great
and good time, and the meeting was much
affedled. 1 fet out next day for New-Eng-
land, and had meetings in my way to Long-
Ifland, at Byberry, Middletown, and Stony-
brook, where my ojd companion Thomas
Rofs, met me: my fervice was, very clofe
and Searching at thefe meetings. Alas! how
hath an indolent fpirit prevailed on the pro-
feflbrs of truth ; a fmall remnant excepted,
w^ho are preferved in moft places, to rejoice,
in the deep painful labours, in great mercy
yet continued to the churches. We, in
company with feveral other friends pro-
ceeded on our journey, in order to attend
Flufhing yearly-meeting, on Long-Ifland
for the government of New- York. On
fifth-day, the 2 2d of the 5th month, we
attended the monthly and quarterly-meet-
ings of minifters and elders at Flufhing;
in the latter I had comfortable open fervice,

upon

JOHN GRIFFITH. 393

upon the blefGng pronounced by our gra-^
cious Redeemer to the poor in fpirlt, fhew-
ing the necefllty and ufefulnefs of that (late ;
and alfo fetting forth the effentlal qualifica-
tions of a gofpel minifler. It was a bleP-
fed time, and the upright-hearted were
fweetly comforted. Next day was held the
quarterly-meeting, which was fmall, and
things, as to the life of religion, were felt
to be very low ; a painful gloominefs hav-
ing fpread itfelf, through a want of living
concern in many of the members, and from
fome prefuming to adl in the church, too
much in their own will and wifdom; yet
the Lord who waits to be gracious, afford-
ed dod:rine and counfel fuitable to their
ftates ; fliewing, there is one body and one
fpirit, and that all the members who adl
profitably, muft know a being baptized by
that one fpirit into the one myftical body.
I found great numbnefs in the meeting of
bufinefs ; my fpirit was deeply baptized in-
to fufiering therein, and conftrained to lay
their condition before them by very clofe
fearching obfervations, which appeared to
take fome imprefTion, and my mind was
much relieved thereby. On feventh-day
morning the yearly-meeting of miniflers
and elders was held, which was fmall, and
the vital part of religion feemed to be mucli
obflru6ted; fome clofe remarks were deli-
vered, which aflx)rded confiderable relief:
at eleven came on the firft public meeting

f^

394 The journal at

for worfhip, the time of which was taken
:up very unprofitably by an unlkilful ap-
pearance; after which, the bufinefs was
entered upon, and was a painful diftreffing
time; the forward, bufy, adlive fpirit of
man was let loofe in a few elderly perfbns,
who had placed themf elves at the helm of
government there, and who feemed to have
got fuch an afcendancy over the meeting,
as to bear down whatever appeared in the
right line of tendernefs and truth's fimpli-
city, when they did not fee fit to promote
it. The attempt was to lay afide the ne-
ceflary queries to be anfwered by inferior,
to fuperior meetings ; I was favoured with
a degree of wifdom and ftrength to with-
ftand that fpirit, and to fhew the neceffity
of proper queries, in order that the ftate
of the fociety might be better underftood:
how elfe could fuitable advice be admi-
niftered ? But through the cowardice of
many prefent, I was left to engage much
alone ; yet have CAufe to believe, that the
weapons given both in the meeting and
afterwards in private conference, wounded
that fpirit deeply, and gave honed friends
a clearer fight of it than they had before.
Things in the fucceeding meetings were
managed with more harmony and peace,
and the meetings for worihip were very
large; wherein the everlafting gofpel ^vas
preached with clearneis and demonflration :
many were deeply affecled, and the great

Author

JOHN GRIFFITH. 39^

Author was humbly worfhipped and adored,
who is worthy for ever!

We went from Flufhing, and had a large,
meeting at Cow-Neck, in which truth open-
ed gofpel-docSrine largely, to the tendering
of many hearts. Next day we had an
exceeding large meeting at Weftbury: as
there was general notice, abundance of
people came from feveral parts of the illand^
io that there was near as larg-e a concourfe,
as at the yearly-meeting; their expectations
were much after words, but they had none
from me, being fhut up in filence the whole
time: the monthly-meeting of bufinefs was
held at the clofe thereof. We had very large
meetings afterwards, on this illand at Mati-
nicock, Oyfter-Bay, Bethphage, and Seque-
tague; and notwithftanding the low, lan-
guid (late of the fociety, gofpel truths were
largely delivered, and livingly opened iu
them. We then travelled towards the eaft
end of the ifland, on our way to Rhode-
Ifland, and on third-day, the 3d of the 6th
month, went on board a vefTel about eight
o'clock in the morning, taking our horfes
with us, and landed fafe at Gratten, oppo-
fite to New London in the colony of Con-
nefticut, about one o'clock the fame day.
We got that night to our friend Peter
Davis's, in Rhode-liland government, about
twenty-two miles. We had a meeting next
day at Wefterley, the governor of the pro-
vince was at it and behaved kindly, in-
E e e viti^g

396 The JOURNAL of

viting us to his houfe ; but it did not fuit
VIS to go.

Ill order to. fill up our time before the
yearly-meeting, we had meetings at a new
meeting- houfe near James Perry's, South
Kingfton, Greenwich, Nefliantecut, and
Providence; and though we found fome
honeft travellers for Sion's profperity, yet,
for the moft part, things, as to the hfe of
religion, appeared mournfully low, indif-
ferency prevailing in many, and divers
undue liberties in others. I was much af-
iiicled at fome of the meetings with the
dark principles of deifm, and v/as favoured
with ability to lay open the wickednefs and
grofs abfurdity of fuch principles, warning
friends and others to fliun the converfation
of tliofe tindtured therewith, as thev would
a poifonous ferpent. On fifth day, the
42th of the 6th month, the yearly-meeting
for New-England began at Portfmouth on
Rhode-Ifland; this meeting was very large
as to number; but, alas! it was a dark
gloomy time of deep falfering: the glory
and diadem of our religious afTemblies feems
to be forrowfully removed from thefe people,
and inflea^ of the meeting being covered
therewith, it was overfpread with darknefs.
Here I met our friend Thomas Gawthrop,
who was upon his third vifit to friends in
America; we both fat the whole meeting
in filence.

The

JOHN GRIFFITH. 397

The meetings following, both for wor-
fhip aitd difcipllne, were held at Newport,
and continued till fecond day was over.
The public meetings were exceeding ^arge,
both friends, and abundance of other people
attended moft of them ; it was fuppofed there
were 2000 people. To thefe great aflemblies
it pleafed the gracious fountain of all good,
to open much gofpel do6trine in the de-
monftration of the fpirit and with power,
which appeared to be generally well re-
ceived, and was to the great comfort and
relief of thofe engaged therein ; but the
meetings of minifiers and elders, and thofe
for difcipline, were for the moil: part very
heavy and diftreffing ; great w^eaknefs and
want of living concern, were painfully felt
therein; little of that divine wifdom which
alone can build the houfe, was attended to,
and formality prevailed. Ability was gra-
cioufly afforded to ufe plainnefs of fpeech,
endeavouring to make them fenfible of the
lofs they had fuftained, by forfaking the
fountain of living waters, and hewing to
themfelves cifterns, broken cifterns, that
would hold no water; yet we found a few
fincere labourers amongfl them, whofe hands
I hope were in fome degree ftrengthened ;
but things in general werq very low. On
third day we had a large fatisfa£lory meeting
on Connanicut Ifland, to which many
from Newport went; and next day we had
a very large meeting at Newport, which

was

398 The JOURNAL of

was the laft we had there. In this meeting
wifdoin and utterance were given to declare
the truth to their feveral (tates, in much
pl^in-dealing, endeavouring to fhew them
from whence they had fallen, and how vain
it was for them to imagine they were God's
people in the ftate moll of them were then
in: there was alfo encouragement to the
few fincere-hearted. On fifth day we had
a very large meeting at Portfmouth^ to
which came great numbers from Newport^
It was a time of great darknefs and deep
fufFering with the opprefTed feed : the young
people are moflly gone into the air, and
undue liberties ; and thofe more advanced
(a few excepted) are gone into the earth ;
having fo much to do in government affairs,
many of them got into the ofEces, friendfliips,
and parties, as well as into the profits of
this world. Next day we went off the
ifland, and had meetings in our way to
Nantucket yearly-meeting, at Tiverton,
Little-Compton, and Accoakefet. The two
lafl were very large, efpecially Accoakefet ; the
gofpel was largely and with good authority
declared in them to much fatisfaftion and
comfort, there being confiderable opennefs,
many of other perfuafions attending. On
fecond day, being their monthly-meeting
at Aponiganfet, and notice having been given
before of our intention of being at it, it
was exceeding large, even like a great yearly-
meeting; it was fuppofed there were zoqq

people

JOHN GRIFFITH. 399

people prefent. In this large aflembly the
everl ailing gofpel was preached in the de-
monftration of the fpirit, and with power ;
wifdom being mercifully given to divide
the word fuitably to the various ftates : the
meeting appeared to be generally afFedled,
and the minds of thofe engaged greatly re-
lieved. Early next morning we embarked
for Nantucket, in company with about
twenty friends, and landed on the faid ifland
about five o'clock in the afternoon of the
fame day. On fixth day the yearly-meeting
began, and was very large: a becoming
plainnefs appeared in the general ; but, alas !
the life of religion was very much departed
from by numbers in that once truly amiable
place, fo much noted for a family of love.
I went on the ifland as a ftranger to their
prefent flate, though I had been there twice
before, a witnefs of better times: much
diflreffing anguifli was felt in this meeting,
and for fome time I expe(5led the current
of life would have been wholly obftrucSed;
but at length, through divine mercy, truth
arofe with gofpel authority, fetting forth
what a great and wonderful manifeftation
of evangelical light and truth fprung up in
the laft century after a dark night of
apoftafy and error; when the heavenly
power being embraced, brought forth the
nature and fpirit of religion; but endea-
vours now are too often ufed to fupport the
fame principles in a formal way, by the

ftrength

400 The JOURNAL of

ftrengtli and wifdom of man; the Lord
therefore will not own a people in that flate.
Many things were delivered upon this fub-
jecl with great dread, and I felt the Lord's
power go forth as a fire amongft the briars
and thorns ; many were ftruck with fadnefs
and fear, and the everlafting name was
exalted: Thomas Gawthrop was there
alfo, and had good fervice. The meeting
ended on fecond-day, much gofpel labour
having been beftowed in the feveral fittings
thereof. Notwithftanding the general ftate
of friends on that ifland appeared truly
deplorable, yet I believe a remnant are and
will be preferved frefh and lively in religion.
May their number increafe !

We left the ifland on third-day, the ift of
the yth month, and landed that «?yening
at SeconneiTet, on the continent, Vbeing
about fifty in number. We had a fmall
meeting on fifth-day, at a meeting-houfe
near the place of our landing, and went
forward to be at Sandwich quarterly- meet-
ing. On fixth-day we went to their
monthly- meeting, where was a burial of a
friend that died fuddenly. There were
many Prefbyterians prefent: the gofpel
power arofe with confiderable ftrength and
clearnefs, with the words of the apoflle:
** Give diligence to make your calling and
*' eleftion fure ;" with remarks on the
great importance of the work, how necef-
fary to be alTured of its going forward, and

that

JOHN GRIFFITH. 401

that a certainty thereof may be obtained,
by the fpirit of God bearing witnefs with
our fpirit, according to the apoftolic tefti-
mony. This exhortation contradiifbs the
dark opinion of abfoKite and unconditional
ele(5lion and reprobation; feeing this preffing
advice to make it fure, imphes fomething
to be done on man's part, which . may be
omitted, and he thereby may mifs the elec-
tion of God's grace; whereas, according to
that, the elecflion is made fo certain, even
from the foiijidation of the world, by an
immutable decree, that all man's endeavours
will make no alteration, feeing one cannot
poiTibly be added to the number of the
eledl, nor one diminifhed: the great ab-
furdity of this dodlrine was expofed, fhew-
iag how it reflected much diilionour on in-
finite mercy and goodnefs ; and fome of their
ftrongeft arguments in favour of that doc-
trine were anfwered.

I was alfo opened upon infant-baptifm^
fo called, fetting forth how unreafonable it
is to uphold types, figns, and fliadows, un-
lefs we expe6l another and higher dif-
penfation: that types always pointed to the
anti-type or fubftance, and feeing mod ac-
knowledge the fubftance is come, how weak
to keep up the fign. It was a good time,
for truth was exalted and the meeting pretty
generally affefted ; and although thefe dif-
putable points were clofely handled, yet
tb^re was no oppofirion, nor the leail dif-

guft

402 The JOURNAL of

guft appeared. On feventh-day the quar-
terly-meeting was held, in which we had
foine, I hope profitable fervice, in a clofe,
fearching way; things appeared very low,
yet there were fome fincere, honeft labour-
ers. We went after meeting about twenty
miles to Plymouth, where it is faid the
iirll colony of Englifli landed and fettled.
The next day, being the firft of the week,
we went to Pembroke meeting, which was
but fmall of friends, but a pretty many of
other focieties came in, cc»iifidering the
fhort notice ; the truths of the gofpel were
largely delivered amongft them, which
feemed to be well and kindly received. We
fet out after meeting, intending to pafs
through Bofton, and as far to theeaftward
as we propofed to vifit friends, leaving no-
tice as we went, at the feveral meetings, to
take ythem in our return. We had very
large meetings at Cachechy, and Dover;
and although we found but little living
concern amongft friends, yet the blefTed
truth favoured and opened the way for much
gofpel labour fuited to their ftates, in order
to revive ancient zeal and ardour. The wea-
ther was extremely hot and the meetings
crouded, fo that at times it feemed as if I
Ihouid have been overcome, and faint; but
by divine favour, I was mercifully carried
through, to a confiderable degree of fatis-
fadllon and peace. We returned to their
quarterly-meeting at Hampton, which be-
gan

JOHN GRIFFITH. 40I;

gan for minlfters and elders, on feventh-
day, third hour, the 12th of the 7th month;
we were forrowfully affecfled to find fo little
of a living concern amongft the leaders of
the people; Next day, being the firft of
the week, we had two large meetings, com-
pofed of friends and others : a religious la-
bour for heavenly bread feemed almoft loft,
even amongft thofe advanced in age and pro-
feflion of the truth ; yet in marvellous con-
defcenfion, the gofpel power and life fprung
up and extended to their various ftates, with
great ftrength and clearnefs, even as a flame
of fire againft the wood, hay, and ftubble;
Ihewing, what a great and glorious thing
Chriftianity is; how complete victory and
dominion may be obtained by it over fin;
and the foul of man be endued with fublime
virtues : but to view the notion of Chrifti-
anity people in general appear now to be
contented with, it would feem as if little
real religion remained on the earth. In the
afternoon I was led to fet forth, that there
is one body, one Ipirit, one Lord, one faith,
and one baptifm ; that by this only people
come to be truly initiated, being buried with
Chrift by his faving baptifm into his death;
and thereby wltnefling with the apoftle, the
meafure of the fufferings of Chrift which
are yet behind^ fulfilled in us ; if fo be that
we fuifer with him,^- that we alfo may be
glorified together: t'he deep myftery of
man's redemption through Chrift, was
F f f largely

404 r^^^ JOURNAL of

largely opened^ it being a time of great fa*-
your, and the people were generally afFedled.
Next day forenoon was held their meeting
of bufinefs; but as the power of truth, the-
main fpring of action in the weighty affairs
of the church, appeared to me Ibrrowfully
wanting, little could be done to good pur-
pofe; fome clofe remarks were made upon
the declining date of that meeting, whereii>
we had very little comfort or fatisfadlion.
In the afternoon we had a very large con-
cluding meeting, wherein Chrift was freely
fet forth as the true light, that enlightens
every man that cometh into the world;
that as the light of the outward fun is necef-
fary for tranfacling the affairs of this life,
fo the light of the Sun of righteoufnefs is no
lefs neceffary to fliew us how to perform
the great work of our foul's falvation : it
was a good time. We then had meetings
at Aimfbury, Newbury, Salem, Lynn, and
Bofton. Ak Lynn in the afternoon, being
firft-day, I found it my place to fet an ex-
ample of filence; at the other meetings I
was largely opened in the fervice of the
gofpel, to good fatisfadion and comfort.
From Bofton we travelled to Dighton, and
dined on the way at Taunton. Our guide
being acquainted with a fliop-keeper in that
town, we were invited to dine wdth him:
after dinner we entered upon much rcafon-
ing about religious principles, and a clofe
difpute enfued. I was, through divine af-

fiftance^

JOHN GRIFFITH. 405

fiftance, enabled to Hand my ground there-
in, and to maintain our principles, to the
comfort and fatisfad:ion of my own mind,
and I believe in a good degree to his ; who
I unfterftood had been accounted a very zea-
lous Prelbyterian, and had entertained an
unfavourable opinion of our principles : he
confeffed they never had been cleared up fo
much to his fatisfadlion before, and feerned to
be a good deal affe<?ted ; we parted in love
and friendftiip. We then had meetings at
Free- town, Long-plain, Rochefter, and
Akufhnet; in thefe we found things very
low and languid, as appeared generally the
cafe in New-England; our ibciety, like
others, having too much dwindled into form
aind profeflion. The laft meeting was very
large, but my way was quite fhut up as to
miniftryj had in the others clofe fearching
fervice. On firft-day, the 27th of the 7th
month, we had a very large meeting at
Swanzey, to which came friends from many
pafts, fome even from Newport; the power
of the everlafting gofpel arofe in this large
aflTembly ; wifdom and utterance were given
to declare the truth very largely, from thefe
words, *' To know thee the only true God,^
*' and Jefus Chrift whom thou haft fent, is
*' life eternal." The meeting was much
affedled; the Lord's heart-melting goodneis
was fweetly enjoyed by a remnant. Next
day we had a large meeting at Smithfield ;
the nature of true reli^^ion, from the apof-

tie

4o6 The JOURNAL of

tie James's definition of it, was copioufly
treated of in this meeting : it was a favoured
time, and the meeting was generally af-
fedled. On third-day we had a meeting at
Wainfoket, great numbers of loofe, liber-
tine people came, who, I fuppofe, rarely
attended any place of worlhip; fuch came
rather out of curiofity, expedling fome-
thing; and indeed thole, for the moft part,
who profefs with us there, feem as if they
knew little of the nature and importance
of religious worfhip ; but it was my duty
in this large meeting, to fit in filence.
Next day we had a very large meeting at
Mendam, to which came many of our pro-
feflion, and a great number of fuch as be-
ing diflatisfied with the eflablifhed worfhip,
and an hireling miniftry, had feparated and
held meetings in one another's houfes, hav-
ing fuch as thought it their duty to preach
freely amongft them: to this meeting the
gofpel was largely preached, which Teemed
to have ia. general reach. After meeting came
a predeflinarian, and a young man, a preach-
er among thofe " feparatills t>efore-men-
tioned, who are quite averfe to that dark
opinion: thefe two, it feems, had been en-
gaged * in a difpute in the meeting-houie
^vhen' all were gone, upon fomc points of
doctrine delivered that day concerning ori-
ginal fin and the opinion before- mention-
ed; and as they could not fettle the points,
at length they agreed to come to my quar-
ters,

JOHN GRIFFITH. 407

ters, to alk me a few fbber qiicfllons, by
way of further explanation of fome things
delivered. When they informed me of the
reafon of their coming, I told them I was
very willing to aiford them all the fatisfac-
tion In my power, but was not very fond
of difputes, which feldom tended much to
edification as they were generally managed.
The old man fignified he had no intention of
entering into any difputes ; however, one
thing brought on anothei:, till we got very
clofely engaged : the young mxan, the preach-
er, was on my fide, and, I think, had as
remarkable a memory in the fcriptures as I
ever knew, and was favoured with a confi-
derable underflanding in the myftery of
them. The poor old man, though I fup-
pofe as well furnifhed as moft upon fuch
a bad fubjecft, was entirely vanquiflied and
confounded to that degree, that his fpirits
appeared to be iiink with forrow, becaufe
he could not fupport his principles better.
The young man and I, with other friends,
withdrew into another room, and had a
religious conference, particularly upon the
nature of gofpel-miniftry and worlliip; he
appeared to be much enlightened and not
fsir from the kingdom; but I fear he had
entered into the miniftry too fbon. This
opportunity afforded my mind a good deal
of fatisfadion. I found many of thofe high
profefTors in New-England, in rather an
unfettled ftate, fond of flocking to our

meetings,

4o8 The JOURNAL oi

meetings, and they feemed to hear the doc-
trinef of truth with fatisfacflion, and there
was great opennefs amongft them in many
places. But what forrowfully afFedled my
mind was, that there is fo Uttle of the life
of religion held up as a ftandard to thofe,
by our fociety in thofe parts ; yet I believe
there will be a gathering to Shiloh, in the
New-England colonies. The difference ap-
pears very great in their efteem and regard
to our friends, to what it was formerly,
though perhaps that in part may be owing
to many in our fociety being more like
them, than our friends were in early. times;
yet I believe the cafe is otherwife with
many, and that it arifes from their good
opinion of moft of our principles.

On fifth-day, the 31ft of the 7th month,
we fet out, accompanied by two guides,
through the back parts of Connecticut, to-
wards the Oblong in the government of New-
York, being about 140 miles through a
Prefbyterian country ; they generally carried
themfelves civilly, and we had fome religious
conferences to good fatisfadlion. The wea-
ther was very hot, and the roads ftony, rough
and mountainous, and the entertainment
but mean in many places, fo that the jour-
ney was attended with fatigue to our bodies
and horfes. We went to New-Milford
meeting on firft-day, the 3d of the 8th
month ; I had nothing to offer by way of
miniftry, yet in Hill quiet waiting, I was

favoured^

JOHN GRIFFITH. 409

favoured therein with the flrft clear fatis-
facftory glance of my being at liberty, to-
wards the latter end of this year, to return
home, which I fully believed, but kept it
to myfelf. After meeting we afcended to
the Oblong, and a long afcent it was, of
near a mile to the fummit of that cal-
led Quaker-Hill; the weather being ex-
tremely hot, I feared it would have killed
my horfe, and I was not able to relieve him
by walking. On third-day we had a very
large meeting at a commodious houfe built
by friends on that hill ; they who attend-
ed were generally profelTors of the truth
as held by us, and moftly plain and becom-
ing in their outward garb ; yet, alas! when
they came to be viewed in the true light,
they appeared dry and formal ; many, I fear,
having clothed corrupted nature with a
form of religion, and in a plain drefs fit in
their religious meetings like dead images.
After a time of deep fuffering in fpirit
with the opprefled feed, the word was given
with good authority, and went forth like
a flame of fire, againft the wood, hay, and
ftubble, to the roufing, I believe, and awa-
kening of many for the prefent. The con-
dition of man in the tranfgreffion as fet
forth by the infpired writers, that he is in
a ftate of enmity to, and feparation from
God, confequently, he muft experience a
very great change, before he can be accept-
able ca his Maker: the way was opened,

jliewing

4io The JOURNAL or

fhewing how this change v/as to be eS'cAcd^
and that the operation necelTary thereunto,
makes indelible imprelTions on the minds
of all who are fo happy as to experience
the fan^e, that none can be true Chriftians
without it : truth had great dominion that
day. We had a very large meeting next day
at the Nine Partners, and had clofe fervice
therein. Next day we had a very painful
afflidling meeting at Ofwego ; I was quite a
llranger to them, and did not know by any
outward information, that they had any one
who iifually appeared in public among
them; yet my mind was ftrongly imprelTed
with a feniQ^ that the meeting Iiad been
nivich hurt by a wrong miniftry, and for
that reafon chiefly, my mouth was Ihut up
there in that refpecfl: it feemed as if the
very perfon was ihewn to me in the meet-
ing, though I had never feen him before
that I know of; but I found afterwards, it
was a true fenfe, and I told friends in his
hearing, how things appeared to me in that
meeting, which feemed to ftrike him, and
he draggled a little, but I left it upon him:
may the great and gracious helper of hi$
neople, have the praife of his own works,
faith my foul, now and for evermore! On
firft-day, the loth of the 8th month, we
were at the Oblong meeting again ; my
travail the whole meeting was in fuffering
filence. From hence, in our way to New-
Yorkj we had the following meetings, viz.

Peach-

JOHN GRIFFITH. 411

Peach-Pond, North-Caflle, the monthly-
meeting at the Purchafe, Momarineck, and
WefL-Chefter; at moft of which, the gof-
pel power was largely manifeited, by open-
ing dodlrine and counfel, in a clofe, fearch-
ing manner, to the various dates of the
people. On firfl-day, the 17th of the 8th
mionth, we were at two meetings in the
city of New-York; in the morning I was
filent; in the afternoon, truth opened the
way to public fervice, fhewing the beau-
tiful order and economy of human life;
all feeking for fome manlion, poffeiiion, or
fettlement, and agreeable to the laws of pru-
dence and juftice, endeavouring to increafe
their ftore, that they may have fomething
of their own againft the time of need: if
prudence requires to provide the necefTaries
for this fiiort and uncertain life, how much
more incumbent is it upon us, in regard
to the immortal part: and that our eyes
fhould be turned to view the order, har-
mony, and beauty of the new creation, and
to feek an inheritance in the holy city ?
It was a blefTed time, and many hearts were
tendered. I had a good deal of fktisfacffcion
among friends in that city, and hope there
is a growth in the bed things experierKed
by divers. On fecond-day we crojQTed the
Bay, and Staten-Iiland ; ferried from thence
at Elizabeth-tov/n Point, and v^rent to
Rahway. On third and fourth-day we w^ent
to the quarterly and monthly-meetings at
AVoodbridge ; was enabled to labour largely
G g g in

412 The JOURNAL of

in a fearching way, with much plainnefs
and gofpel authority, for their help and
recovery from a weak, languid, uncon-
cerned ftate ; yet we found fome folid, valu-
able friends amongft them. From thence
we proceeded on our way to my compani-
on's houfe in Pennfylvania, and had large
meetings at Plainfield and Kingwood,
wherein the gofpel was preached with great
opennefs, to good fatisfaftion. On feventh-
day evening, the 23d of the 8th month,
having crolTed Delaware at Howell's-Ferry,
we got to my companion's houfe, and at-
tended two meetings at Wright's-Town,
where he belongs ; the next day there was
a eonfiderable number of profeffors, but
fpiritual idlenefs was felt forrowfully to
have prevailed over too many, craving to
be fed with w^ords ; I found it my duty to
be lilent at both the meetings. Having
taken a very great cold after fome of the late
large and hot meetings, I w^as much indif-
pofed, and ftaid at my companion's till fifth-
day, and then w^nt to the quarterlyrmeet-
ing for the county of Bucks, held at the
Falls, which was exceeding large: truth
greatly favoured that meeting, in opening
dodtrine and counfel, for the help, reproof,
and encouragement of many, beginning
with thefe words, // is efpecially ijuorthy to
he noted^ that the infpired %vnters^ both in
relating their oivn experience^ and in ad^
minijiering advice and counfel to others^
on a religious account^ lay the ivhole Jlrefs

of

JOHN GRIFFITH. 413

of religion upon the inivard^ faving^ and
fpiritiial knoiv ledge of God: it was k great
time, and many hearts were tendered. The
youth's meeting was held next day at Brif-
tol ; it was a low, poor time, and I had
nothing to offer by way of miniftry. -On
firft-day, the 31ft ot the 8th month, I
went to Makefield meeting, it was an exer-
cifing time; a carelefs, earthly fpirit was
felt to be very prevalent ; I had fome fer-
vice there, in a very clofe, fearching man-
ner. In the afternoon I had a very large
meeting at John Beaumont's, wherein much
gofpel dodrine flowed to the people, upon
the nature of felf-denial and bearing the
yoke of Chrift ; many, not of our ibciety,
were prefent and pretty much affected; it
was a favoured time. Next day I went to
Buckingham monthly-meeting, which was
very large, a nvimerous body of friends
living in thofe parts ; I had great opennefs
for public fervice therein, ihewing, that
the promifes of God in him, are yea and
amen for ever ; yet we are not entitled to
them but upon certain conditions, that is,^
being in thofe ftates to which they are ap-
plied. It was a great and good time, truth
being exalted. On third-day I had a large
fleeting at Plumftead, many attending from
Buckingham and other places. The word
was given with authority and clearnefs, to
declare to this numerous auditory, upon
the nature of true religion and worfliip,
iUewing, that it principally confided in aa

inward

414 The JOURNAL of

inward exercife of the foul towards God,
and efpecially depended on a Ipiritual ac-
quaintance with him ; it was a highly fa-
voured time, and many hearts were tender-
ed. For ibme time paft I had been indif^
pofed, being, through the extremity of the
heat, much afflidlcd with a ralh, called the
prickly heat ; and having taken a great cold,
my afthmatic diforder was much increafed ;
yet, through merciful help iupporting foul
and body in the great work to v^hich I was
called, I was enabled to proceed on my
j-ourney, having a ftrong defire to vilit fome
meetings in the back parts of Bucks, Phi-
ladelphia, and Cheftcr counties, before the
approaching yearly- meeting for Pennfylvania
and the Jerfeys, to be held in Philadelphia
towards the latter end of the 9th month:
apprehending if I could accomplilh that,
I fliould have little to do after, except on the
eaftern fliore of Maryland and in the lower
counties upon Delaware. Here my valu-
able friend Zebulon Hefton, joined me for
a companion to the back parts. We tra-
velled next day to Richland, and the day
following had a large meeting there, moftly
confiRirg of thofe under our name: great
lukcwarmnefs and want' of, a living con-
cern was felt ; yet it pleafed divine gocd-
nefs to favour v/ith ability to labour in the
gofpel v/ith plainnefs, in a very awakening
manner, which feemed to have ibme ten-
dering cfFecl in the general, at Jeafl for the
prefent. We travelled next day to Oley,

aliHs

JOHN GRIFFITH. 415

alias Exeter^ and went to their meeting on
iirll-day, the 7th of the 9th month ; they
appeared to me moftly ignorant of the im-
portance of that worfliip and fervice which
they pretended to meet about, and as if the
chief waiting was to hear what the poor
fervants had to fay : they w^ere difappointed
in refpe(5l to me, finding it my place
to fit the whole meeting in filence. We after-
wards went toMaiden-Creek, and had a large
meeting there the next day. I believe there
were fome valuable friends, but many ap-
peared in a ftate of indolence as to reli-
gion, looking for words ; there was a con-
fiderable fpace of filence; at length, truth
arofe and obtained dominion, and the gof-
pel was freely preached; Ihewing the na--
ture of the work of man's falvation by
Chrift, and the great danger of a negleft-
thereof. On third- day we had a meeting
in Reading Court-Houfe, to which many
came, not of our fociety, being moftly Ger-
mans, who behaved in a folid, becoming
manner; the word of the gofpel was given,
and ability to declare it w ith good autho-
rity and clearnefs for a confiderable time,
to the tendering of many hearts. Next
day we crofled Schuylkill, and had meetings
at the Foreft, Nantmill, Providence, and
Pikeland, in all which, ability was given
to labour in the gofpel, for the ftirring up
profeffors to a more lively fenfe of religion,
which indeed was felt to be at a low ebb
amojagft them, as iu many othex* places;

fuch

4i6 The JOURNAL of

fvich caufes there are of mournful com-
plaints, where people go no deeper into reli-
gion than what comes by education or out-
ward conformity: many in thefe parts have
entered into the outward poiTeffions and
profeffion of their worthy ancefliors, at a
very eafy rate; yet the Lord, in great mercy,
is caviling his trumpets to found very loud,
to awaken fuch to a fenfe of the^r danger.
On firft-day, the 14th of the 9th month,
we went to Uwchlan, which was a very
large meeting of itfelf, and friends came to
it from moft of the adjacent meecings; the
fore part was a time of deep travail and
{ilent labour, in a painful fenle that many
prefent were at eafe in a bare profeffion of
the truth; at length the worcl was given
with confiderable weight and gofpel autho-
rity, {hewing what a powerful efficacious
thing Chriftianity was, when it made its
firfl entrance into the world, and fo con-
tinued for a confiderable time, mightily
prevaiUng by its own force and efficacy,
againft all oppofition and worldly intereft,
until the world fmiled upon its profeffi^rs:
it then fpread as to the name, but gradual-
ly lofing the power and life, many difor-
ders, great corruptions, and defolating con-
tentions about trifles, got in. Clole ap-
plication was made to the ftates of the
inhabitants of this highly favoured pro-
vince, earnefUy preffing the auditory to
feek after the fubftance of religion. The
afternoon meeting wa§ folid and comfort-
able

JOHN GRIFFITH. 417

able in filence. On third-day we had a large
meeting at Eaft-Cahi, in which I had tho-
rough fervice, to good fatisfadlion ; and next
day we had a very large meeting at Brad-
ford, in the Forks of Brandy-wine ; things
were felt to be much out of order, and re-
ligion to be at a very low ebb amongft
them, yet, through infinite condefcenfion,
golpel authority was given, with much
clearnefs in doclrine, fhewing, that in order
to pofTefs a valuable religion, man fliould be
feelingly and experimentally convinced,
that in matters of religion, he mufl wholly
refign his v^ill to God, and give him-
felf up to be guided by a fupernatural prin-
ciple; until then, he cannot fay, with ac-
ceptance to his Maker, " Thy will be done
*' in earth, as it is done in heaven." It
was, through divine mercy, a highly-fa-
voured baptizing time, and the blelTed truth
was in dominion over hard, unmortified
fpirits. I went home from hence with my
brother-in-law, Micajah Speakman, to Con-
cord, where I refted quietly three days,
after long fatigue of travelling and hard
labour ; yet all was made eafy through the
efficacy of that heavenly power which mer-
cifully attended from place to place, filling
my foul, at times, with true contentment
and perfedl refignation to the Lord's will,
either to do or fuflfer; in which happy flate,
my peace flowed as a river, On firft-day,
the 2 1 ft of the 9th month, I went to Mid-
dle-town meeting, but had no public fer-
vice

4i8 The JOURNAL o?

vice therein. I went on fecond-day to
Philadelphia, attended their week-day meet-
ing next day, and on fifth-day I v/ent to
Haddonfield, in Weft-Jerfey, to the burial
of Thomas Redman, a public friend in
good efteem, who formerly told me he was
lirft reached or convinced through my
miniftry, in the Bank-meeting at Philadel-
phia, about thirty years ago: the meeting
was very large, conlifting both of friends
and thole of other focieties, a prieit and
his family being there; the truths of the
gofpel were largely declared, with clearnefs
and good demonftration ; the auditory being
very folid and attentive, truth had good
dominion to the comfort of many. In the
afternoon was held their quarterly- meeting
of minifters and elders ; it was a low time.
Next day was held their quarterly-meeting,
which was very large; there feemed to be
great expedlations and looking out after
words, as is forrowfully the cafe with many
in thefe parts, efpecially if the poor inftru-
ment had been favoured before, and it
pleafed them : this fometimes tends to de-
prive them of that which they fo anxioufly
ieek after, which I believe was now the
cafe, for I was quite fhut up as to public
fervice, but had fome good fervice in the
meeting of bufinefs. On feventh-day, the
^yth of the 9th month, I went to the year-
ly-meeting of minifters and elders at Phi-
ladelphia, for Pennfylvanla and the Jerfeys ;
it was large, I had fome fervice therein,

and

JOHN G RIF FIT H. '419

nnd infoniied fiiends that I expedled liber-
ty to return home that Fall, requejfting a
few lines by way of certificate, to my
friends in England, according to the good
order ufed amongft vis; this was the only
one I requefted on the continent of Ame-
rica, yet friends, of their own accord, fent
certificates front moft or all the parts I
•viiited. A certificate ^vas readily granted^
and figned by a great number of minifters
and elders, teftifying theit unity with my
gofpel labours and condudl while among
them. I diligently attended the feveral
fittings of this yearly-meeting, both for
worfhip and difcipline, and had fome
weighty fervice in them. On firft-day,
the 5th of the loth month, 1 went to Fair-
hill meeting, and returned to the evening
meeting in the city. On third-day, the
7th of the loth month, I fet out in order
to attend the yearly-meeting on the eallern
fliore of Maryland, being accompanied by
Samuel Eaftburn; we had meetings in our
•way at George's-Creek, and the head of
Saffafras ; truth made way for clofe, weigh-
ty fervice, to the ftates of thofe prefent.
We went, the iith of the loth month, to a
fmall poor meeting for minifters and el-
ders, at Cecil, in Maryland; and next day
being the firft of the week, the yearly-
meeting began there, to which came many
people of divers forts, moft of whom feem-
ed loofe, and void of a foliJ, religious con-
cern. Death and darknefs were felt to r^lga

H h h aix

420 The JOURNAL or

in tlie general, yet the gofpel power, iu
great mercy, broke through, and opened
fuitable dodrine to their ftates, Ihewing the
general confent of all ages and nations, to
that of the immortality of the foul and
tiuure rewards and punifliments ; and al-
though the profeflbrs of Chriftianity were
favoured with more clear apprehenfions
thereof, than others, yet numbers of them
live as if they had no fuch belief, or, as if
they did not look upon themfelves to be ac-?
countable creatures. The fucceeding meet-^
ings, both for worfhip and difcipline, were^
I hope, through divine aififtance, profitable
to many. The yearly-meeting at Chop-
tank began on feventh-day, the i8th of
the I oth month, and ended on fourth-day
afternoon ; many of the meetings were
very large, and the truths of the gofpel
povv'erfully declared in them, and the ever-
lading unchangeable truth was exalted over
all of a contrary nature to itfelf : this year-
ly-meeting afforded great relief and fatif-
faftlon to my mind. Wc fet out on fifth-
day, in order to attend the yearly-meeting
to be held at Little-Creek, in Kent-Coun-
ty, on Delaware; the meeting began on
iirft-day, the 26th of i oth month, and held
two days; I had very open fervice therein.
After this meeting I found myfelf at liberty
to feek a proper opportunity to return to
my native latid and outward habitation,
and io went f'^om hence directly toward
Pliil:V:!clpHa ; 1 attended their monthly and

ciuartcfly-

JOHN GRIFFITH. 421

qviarterly-meetlng there, wherein I had
good open fervice. By inqiuriug, I found
k vefTel bound for London, the captain in-
tending to fail about the middle of the i ith
month. I went on board, accompanied by
divers friends; we fat a while in the cabin,
in a folemn filence; my mind was deeply
engaged to be rightly direcfled; and finding,
as I thought, rather a freedom to go in
that Ihip, 1 therefore fignified to the cap-
tain and the owners, that I intended to em-
bark in her, which they appeared to be well
pleafed with. I then went to Chefter-
County, to take leave of my relations and
friends, and to attend the quarterly-meet-
ing at Concord; which I did, and had large
open fervice in the feveral meetings, to great
Hitisfaclion and comfort. On third-day I
went to a large meeting at Chefter; death
and darknefs feemed to reign the whole
rime, fo that I had no power to move, as to
ininiftry. I got to Philadelphia next morn-
ing, the lliip being to fail from thence the
next day. On fixth-day, about nine o'clock,
I took a folemn leave of fundry valuable
friends in the city, and fet out for Chefter
to meet the fhip ; many friends from thence
and Derby, accompanying me thither;
where, after dinner, in near affecTtion we
took leave, never ^xpedling to fee each other
again. I then embarked on board the Ihip
Phebe, Capt. Mungo Davifbn; we got under
fail about two o'clock next morning, and
on .firll-dayj the 16th of the luh month.

412, The JOURNAL o?

about four o'clock in the afternoon, we got
to fea.

I find this remark amongfl: my memo-
randurns, written, I fuppofe, after I had been
fome time at fea, viz. '' It is fit to be re-
membered, in humble and awful acknow-
ledgment, that the Lord has been with me
ever iince I came on board this ihip, in love
and mercy unfpeakable, caufing fweet peace
to flow as a river in my foul, fo as to make
me forget all my former anguilli. For the
former things are all palTed away, fo that,
through infinite condefcending love, I have
learned to fing the fong of Mofes and the
fong of the Lamb, and -even upon the
migh"^- foaming unflable ocean, to fpeak in
myfelf in pfalms, and hymns, and fpiritual
fongs, making melody in my heart to the
Lord, who hath been pleafed to preferve
me through many, qh ! very many heights
and depths; heights in my fervice and
affedions of my friends and others, I hope
from being lifted up or exalted above mea-
fure, by the revelation I have been favoured
with; and through the deep baptifms I have
experienced, in fympathy with the preci-
ous depreffed feed, borne down and prefTed
by the fins of mankind, as a cart is prelTed
with fheaves ; the Lord enabling me to be re-
lignedly contented in that flate : whether in
fuffering or rejoicing, filence or words, he
mercifully gave me this fupport by the
power of his own fpirit, and now is lb
gracious, as to reward my mind with fwc£t

peace

JOHN GRIFFITH. jp-

peace foF abiding in that ftation v/herein
he alone preferved me. I v/as, through
unfpeakable kindnefs, when I fat dov/n ir^
a meeting, m.oftly enabled to fay, ** Tiiy
will be done, whether in making nib
of me as thy inftrument to found an alarm
to the people, or to fet them an example
of lilent waiting upon thee.'^ What iliall
I fay or return to the Loid of everlaftirig
loving-kind nefs for preiervation, by fea and
by land, in many perils ; I am at a lofs for
expreifions to fet forth his bountiful good-
nefs, and the greatnefs of his love and
mercy to thofe who truft in him. I there-
fore humbly defire with lilent reverence,
or otherwife as ability is afiorded, to mag-
nify, worfliip, and adore him, who is glo-
rious in holinefsj and fearful in praife,
working wonders, who alone is worthy
now and evennore ! Amen."

We had a ftrong new ihip which had
been at fea but one voyage before ; Ihe was
very tight in the river and bay, but we had
not been a week at fea before flie fprung a leak
to that degree, as to require much labou?
to clear her of water. This feemed to afFedl
the captain and the paflengers pretty much,
not knowing but tlie leak would increafe,
and we being but poorly manured, the cap-
tain having been deceived in fome whom
he had taken in for -^CH^'d hands, proving of
little ufe, nay, one of them rather a bur-
den. In this gloomy time, through mer-
ciful help, I found a bjelled fupport to my

mind,

424 The JOURNAL of

mind, in humble confidence, that he who
is Lord of all (in whofe counfel I appre-
hended I was there) would condudl me fafe
to my outward habitation ;• yet I was ibrry
for fuch an addition of work to the failors,
as we were obliged to keep one hand at leaft-
at the pump night and day all the paflage,
which was flormy and rough, and very un-
pleafant to the body. The captain and paf-
fengers were very civil and obhging to me.
It w^as the 1 9th of the 1 2th month, before
we found ourfelves in foundings on the
EngliHi coaft. After we had failed a con-
fiderable way up the Channel, the wind
came a-head of us, fo that we beat about
therein for feveral days, and were once in
great danger of being fhip wrecked upon
the Ifland of Alderney. On the 25th of
the 1 2th month, in the evening, we put
into the fafe port of Dartmouth. I then re-
folved to leave the ihip, being about 230
miles from home, where I arrived the laft
day of the year, 1766, having been upon
this journey one year and a half, lacking a
few days. I underftood it was fix or fcvGn
weeks before the Ihip arrived at London^
after I left her.

As I have already far exceeded in large-
nefs, what I intended to leave behind me
in the way of Journal, fo I muft forbear
adding much more; yet may jull hint, that
in the year 1768, I went to the- quarterly-
meetings of York, Kendal, and Lancafter,
I had divers other meetings in the North,

and J

JOHN GRIFFITH. 425

and^ accompanied by my worthy friend
Samuel Fothergill, had feveral meetings
in North Wales, in town-halls, where none
under our name refided. I pafTed afterwards
through a part of England, into South
Wales, and fo to Briftol; from thence I
returned home ; having paffed through, ia
England and Wales, abou.t twenty-five
counties, and attended fixty-three meet-
ings, and travelled about 1016 miles.

In the 4th month, 1770, I fet out, ac-
companied by my wife, intending to be at
the circular yearly-meeting, to be held this
year at Ormikirk, in Lancajfliire. We were
at Manchefler meetings on firft-day, and
attended a very large monthly-meeting on
the fecond-day following, at Warrington.
Truth and its teftimony was exalted, and had
great dominion therein over libertine fpi-
rits, to the joy of the upright in heart.
The yearly-meeting before mentioned be-
gan the 17th of the fame month, and held
three days: there was a very convenient
booth ere6led for the purpofe, which, it
was thought, wovild accommodate 2000
people ; yet it was not fufEcient to contain
the numbers who came, fo that other meet-
ings were held out in the open air at the
fame time. The people in general behaved
with civility and refpeft; there was con-
fiderable opcnnefs, and the meetings were
well conducted. We returned from thence
homewards, taking Warrington meeting on
firft-day: the journey was very fatisfaftory,
the whole beiug about 48 8 miles.

^4^6 TheJOUHNAL &c.

In the year 1772, I went, in coriipaity
^vith my friends Sarah and Deborah Morns
of Philadelphia, to the yearly-meeting at
Briildl ; it was large and divinely favovired.
I attended, this year, four other yearly-meet-
ings, to very good fatisfacftion and comfort,
viz. London, Colchcfter, Woodbridge, and
Norwich, accompanied by my wife to the
laft four, as well as by the two friends
before- mentioned, who were in this na-
tion upon a religious vifit.

Being now in the fixtieth year of m^^
age, and having laboured twelve or four-
teen years, at times, pretty much under
an afthmatic complaint, which has caufed
ariding to be frequently painful to the body^
which difficulty age is likely to increafe,
1 expect therefore, travelling of any con-
fiderable journies will of courfe ceafe^
and having written fo much already, I here
intend to lay down my pen, committing
myfelt, and what is done, to the provi-
dence and bleffing of God, in whofe power
alone it is to grant patience, refignation,
and perfeverance, to his poor, helplefs fer-
vants, and an increafe of their gofpel la-
bours; So be it!

FINIS,

S 6 M li

BRIEF REMARKS

UPON SUNDRY

JA: 13

IMPORTANT SUBJECTTS, '

NecefTary to be underftood and attended to by alt
proiFeffing the Christian Religioit.

Prineipally addreffed to

The People tailed QJJAKERS.

By JOHK GRIFFITH.

LONDON, Printed:

PHILADELPHIA, Re-printed

% JOSEPH CRUKSHANK In Market-flreei^,
iJetwcen Second and Third- ftreets.

*

THE

PREFACE.

Candid Reader,

WERE it not apprehended by me
a duty, thus to offer to thy fe-
rious perum\the following plain and
experin^^ital o&fcrvations upon various
fubjecls, ^ffacHj hac^ft not hear.d from me
in this way .^ V > \ x.

I have often, with rttany brethren
and fifters ia^the truth, been deeply
affected in vic^HPff the great danger
chriftian profeffon^ are ex p -fed to
through a prevailing^, indifference of
mind. For wherf a lethargic Itupefac-
tion hath gained' the afcendancy, reli-
gion in notion, and fruiilefs fpeculati-
on, fatisfy a mind fo depraved A re-
novation of heart, without which none
can be truly religious, hath not been
fought after. Pleafed with the iliell or
form only, fuch have not been fenfible
they wanted the fubllance.

When the fubtil adverfary finds men
in this kind of ilecp or ftupcfaclion, it

is

The preface.

is then his opportunity for fowing the
tares amongft th^e wheat: by fuch
means the field of the chriftian church
became in procefs of time covered
therewith. That which came neareft
to my heart, and moft earneftly en-
gaged my attention to^vards the pre-
fent undertaking (not without ardent
delires for the lafting advantage of
chrilHans of all denominations) was,
that the c'efcendants of a people, who
a little above a century ago were very
marveiloufJy brought, out of, and re-
deemed from, all lifelefs fhadov^s, and
empty forms of religion, to enjoy and
be grounded in the blelTed power and
life thereof, might be preferved truly
fenfible of the way and means where-
by our v/orthy predeceifors obtained a
firm eftablifhment in the truth, as it is
in Chrift Jcfus: for it is evident, where
the means are neglected, the end cau-
not be attained.

That many of thefe defcendants in

this day of outward peace and plenty,

inclining to falfe liberty and eafe, do

* ' ihun

The preface.

fliun the crofs of Chrift, which would
crucify them to the world, is a mourn-
ful truth, too obvious to be denied.
Ill confideration hereof, I found a
concern to throw a few obfervations
before them, as near as I could, fuited
to the prefent ftate of things; endea*^
vouring, in fome degree^ to offer to
the view of the prefent and fucceed-
ing generations, by what means our
worthy predeceflbrs became fuch ii liv-
ing honourable body of people; that
the necelTity may fully appear of the
fame bleffed power operating upon their
minds, in order to qualify all, that
they may rightly fucceed thofe valiants
in maintaining the caufe of Gcd.

The objection which caft fome dif-
couragemenc in my way, may alfo oc-
cur to fome readers, viz. that the fub-
jccts treated of in this fmall tra6l have
been divers times heretofore judicioufly
wrote upon by different authors. This
is no more than may be faid of mofl
other religious fubjects as well as thefe*
pivine wifdom and goodnefs hath

feen

The Preface.

feen meet to revive the fame truths,
by different inftruments, from genera-
tion to generation; the Lord's fervants
Ipeaking the fame thing, as with One
mouth.' Herein God's gracious con-
defcenfion to human frailty is very con-
fpicuous and wonderful^ by caufing
thofe excellent truths, fo eflential to
be received that man's foul may be fav-
ed, to be frequently revived and incul-
cated, feeing he is fo liable to forget
God, and his reafonable duty to him.
Having no defire to enlarge, 1 iliall
only add my earneft prayer to the God
and Father of all fure mercies, that
this mite of fimple experimental truths,
which I have caft into the treafury,
may meet the ferious reader, of what-
ever denomination, with the divine
bleHlng in it! If that graciouUy attend,
though what is here offered may be
juftly accounted as the barley-loaves,
the hungry foul may receive fomc
ftrength and refreflimcnt thereby.

3Cth 8th Mo. 1764.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER I.

Containing tender Advice, Caution and CouNr
SEL to Parents and Children. Page i

CHAPTER II.

Containing fome Brief Obfervations concerning
the Nature and Necessity of the New
JBiRTH. P^gG 2.3

CHAPTER III.

Relating to the Nature of True Worship j
with fome Remarks upon the State of our So-
ciety as in early Times and now. Page 43

CHAPTER IV.

Containing Short Remarks upon the True and
the False Ministry. Page 6^

CHAPTER V.

Containing Brief Obfervations upon the Nature
-and Usefulness of Christian Discipline.

Page 83

i:^

/ /;

\

'■ 5 'Jo \M -E V.-.

BRIEF REMARKS

UPON

Sundry Important Subjects.

«=g j — — r'' I — ' - ' ' I'S ' ■ " .!L'. U f

CHAPTER L

Containing tender Advice, Caution and CouNf
SEL to Parents and Children*

FI R S T to parents. Very much depends
upon a right education of children*
I therefore find it in my mind to make
a few obfervations thereon, as it fhall pleafe
the Lord to open my underftanding ; with-
out whofe afliftance, and blefling upon our
labours, they prove altogether fruitlefs.

The children of Ifrael were ftrid:ly en-
joined to make the training up their children
in the law of God their conftant care; viz.
*' Hear, O Ifrael, the Lord our God is one
*' Lord; and thou fhalt love the Lord thy
** God with all thine heart, and with all thy
B ^' foul

Advice y Caution^ and Couv/el

(I

((

foul, and with all thy might. And thefe
words which I command thee this day>
fliali be in thine heart, and thou flialt
teach them diligently unto thy children,
and flialt t^lk of them when thou fitted in
thine houfe, and when thou walkeft by
" the way, and when thou lieft down, and
** when thdii rife ft up.^"

Exceeding great is the truft repofed in pa-
rents and heads of families. It certainly
lies upon them an indifpenfable duty, as
much as they can, both by precept and ex-
ample, to form the tender minds of their
offspring to virtue, as faith the apoflle,
'' And ye fathers, provoke not your children
" to wrath: but bring them up in the nur-
** ture and admonition of the Lord.f" And,
*' Traiu up a child in the way he Ihould go:
•' and when he is old, he v^^ill not depart
''fromit.t." •

Parents mufl lirft be well acquainted with
the way of truth, and the nurture and ad-
monition of the Lord themielves, before
they can train np their children therein.
That v/hich is likely tu have the greatefl in-
fluence upon their tender minds, is a fteady
circumfpedl example, in a felf-denying con-
duct before them; which will beget re-
verence, and honourable thoughts in chil-
dren, and fervants too, concerning thofe
whom Providence hath placed over them.
Great care ihould dwell upon the minds

of
* Deut. vi. 4, 5, 6, 7. t Ep^» vi, 4. % ^^ov, xxH. 6.

to Parents and Children, 3

of parents, to make it fully evident to their
children that they are much more defirous
they fhould poffefs an heavenly than an
earthly inheritance ; that they are more con-
cerned their fouls may be adorned with the
graces of the Holy Spirit, than that their
bodies fhould appear finely decked with out-
ward ornaments.

Children will be very likely to value that
which they fee is preferred by their parents,
w^hether it be the things of the world, or
religion. If this be really the cafe, which I
think will be allowed by confiderate perfons,
O then ! how much depends upon them for
the promotion of truth and righteoufnefs on
the earth, both in regard to the prefent time,
and generations to come. This yet more
fully appears by the Lord's tellimony con-
cerning Abraham. *' And the Lord faid,
^' Shall I hide from Abraham that thing
'^ which I do? feeing that Abraham fliall
'' furely become a great and mighty nation,
*' and all the nations of the earth fliall be
*' bleffed in him. For I know him, that he
*' will command his children, and his houf-
*' hold after him, and they fhall keep the
way of the Lord, to do juftice and judg-
ment; that the Lord may bring vipda
Abraham that which he hath fpoken of
him.*" In chap. xvii. ver. 18. his godly
concern appears earneft, even for the child
of the bond-woman; viz. " And Abraham

'' faid

* Gen. xviii. 17, 18, 19;

((

(C

4. Advice, Caution, and Counfel

*' faid unto God, Oh! that Ilhmael might
*' live before thee." Which petition was
anfwered.

Conftant and warm endeavours, wqth fe~
cret cries to God that his bleffing may attend
them, may prov^ efFedlual to the prefervati^
on of children. This fliould begin very
early, even as foon as they are capable to
diftinguifli what pleafes, or what difpleafes
their parents. A felf-willed perverfe difpo-
iition may foon be difcovered in children
(more efpecially in fome) which is very ear-
neft to have its own way, before they can
judge what is beft for themfelves. This
fhould conftantly be fubjedled to thofe that
are to judge for them. They fhould never
be fuftered to prevail by an untoward fretful
temper, not even when what they crave is
fui table for them to receive, were they in a
fubmiilive difpofition ; that they may clear-
ly fee (which they foon will) it is more to
their benefit and comfort to yield an entire
jTubjedlion to their providers, and that no-
thing is to be got by a fretful felf-willed
temper. This fhould be done by a conftant
fleady hand, and it will make the v/ork of
parents abundantly eafier in the government
of their children, and may prove a great
eafe to thofe concerned with them, perhaps
through the whole courfe of their lives;
fince by crufhing their perverfenefs in the
iirft buddings, it may fo die away, as never
saoje to gain the pre-eminence. Tl js would

be

to Parents and Children, ^

be S wonderful bleffing, and they would
owe their watchful parents more for fup-
preffing that, and other pernicious buds in
them, than for a large patrimony or out-
ward inheritance. Indeed every thing of
an evil nature fliould be kept down in them
by fuch careful fteady means. Oh ! what a
fine hopeful generation of youths fliould we
have, were parents in general to exercile this
prudent care in all things ! I verily believe,
inftead of fober virtuous youth being as
fpeckled birds amongft others, the rebel-
lious, difobedient, and fro ward would be
fo; and this would bring judgment over
them.

A confcientious difcharge of this great
duty would bring an ample reward to fuch
parents, as have no greater joy than to fee
their children walking in the truth : and if
they fliould prove unfuccefsful, as it fome-
times hath happened, they will be clear of
their childrens blood in God's fight, which
is a very great thing; fo that though the
rebellion and evil condu(5l of their offspring
may be their forrow, it will not be their fin.

I have fometimes been much grieved,
when I have feen youth in the way of being
ruined by the very imprudent indulgence of
their parents, efpecially mothers ; making
themfelves and others mere flaves to the
perverfe humours of their children ; taking
abundance of pains to extinguifli the flame
^f their untoward tempers, by fuch means

as

6 AdvicCj Caution^ and Cowtfel

as add fewel to the fire; inverting the order
of nature, by becoming fubjeCL to thofe
who fliOLild fubmit to them, by anfwering
their unreafonable cravings; making them-
felves more work (and that too of a very
difagreeable nature) to educate one, than,
were they to follow the method before hint-
ed, it would require to educate a number,
and in the end not fo well done neither.
Parents, wjio are fo very imprudent, have
lefs reafon to reflect upon their children for
being felf-willed, and not fubjecl to them
when they grow up: feeing they themfelves
have cheriflied, fed, and fupported that
temper in them from their cradles ; where-
by, unlefs religion lays deep hold of them,
and changes the flate of their minds, they
are unfitted to be a comfort either to them-
felves or others ; not being formed for good
fervants, hufbands, wives, or members of
fociety.

Alas! when I take a view of the world,
and refledl how it wallows in abundance of
wickednefs and corruption, which mankind
pofTefs in a kind of fucceffion from parents
to children, like outward inheritances; I
have no words fufEcient to fet forth to the
full fo deplorable a cafe. How forrowful it
is to obferve even children, by the power of
example, become as grown men in wicked-
nefs and hardnefs of heart ! Cuftom and ge-
neral pradlice hath, as it were, changed the
nature of fome grofs evils, fo that there ap-
; , : pears

to Parents and Children. 7

pears very little remorfe in the almoft con-
llant praclice of them. Many children are
brought up, like their parents, much
ftrangers to their duty both to God and
man. This almoft univerfal infeclion of
evil, forgetfulnefs of God, and of many or
moft relative duties, by a conftantly wal-
lowing in the pollutions of this world, are
very alarming, and call loudly for a refor-
mation, left the Lord break forth in judgment
vipon the nations, as the breach of waters.
It is indeed a painful taflv for godly parents,
amidft to general a depravity, to educate
their children withou" receiving fome tinc-
ture from this pollution, which runs down
like a ftrong torrent. The fafeft way is,
with great ftridnefs to keep them out of
fuch company; though an inconveniency
may attend that in fome outward refpecls.
But oh ! the fouls are the moft precious part
of them, which parents, above all other
confiderations, ought to be concerned to
preferve untainted with the defilements "5f
this world.

There is no better rule to proceed and acl
by in this important talk, than the Spirit of
truth, promifed to lead us into all truth.
If we mind this, we fliall not indulge our
children in any individual thing which thar.
teftifies againft in ourfelves. We fliall be
far from pleading, that becaufe they are
young, fome greater liberties may be allow-
ed them in drefs orotherwifej but as they

are

8 Advice^ Caution^ and Cownfel

are a part of ourfelves, the fame divine law
fliould be a {landing rule for the whole.

I have taken notice, that divers parents,
who, as to their outward appearance, feem
to have learned, in degree, the leiFon of
humility and felf-denial, however as far as
could be difcovered by their drefs and ad-
drefs, vet feem to have no aveirlion to their
children's making a different appearance;
nay, fome will even introduce them into it
themfelves whilft very young ; by which it
is plain they have a pride in feeing them fo,
and cannot help (notwithftanding their out-
ward fliew) difcovering great unfoundnefs,
and that they themfelves are not what they
would pafs for. I fincerely wifli that pa-
rents, who are apt to indulge wrong liber-
ties in their children, by fufiering them to
deviate from that pure fimplicity and felf-
denial Truth led our anceftors, and ftill
leads thofe who follow it into, would confi-
der, in the firft place, the injury their chil-
dren fuftain thereby, by being placed in
a difficult and dangerous lituation with re-
fpedl to temptations, which may be prefent-
ed to them by the children of the land, or
of the world: for doubtlefs the more like
them they appear, the more free and inti-
mate will fuch make themfelves with them,
that they may be drawn out into undue
liberties; whereas, did they make an ap-
pearance quite confiflent with their plain
felf-deuying profeffion, that fort would be

more

to Parents and Ghildrtn. 9

more backward to attempt an accels to
them.

Ihere is no doubt with me, but this has
opened a way for many under our profeffion
to ruin themfelves, by going out in mar-
riage; and their parents have been, by their
imprudent indulgence, the original caufe
thereof. For fuffering them to be fo much
like the world, and fo little like what Truth
leads into, they are put out of the way of
the beft connexions in marriage amongft us,
viz. the mod religious ; as fuch dare not
feek to, nor join with, thofe who give way
to undue liberties : I mean fuch as Trutlx
doth not allow us, as people who ought in
all things to hold up a true ftandard to the
nations, to continue in. Here inconfiderate
tender youth, through their aptnefs to. crave
the glittering gaiety of x\\t world, and their
much more imprudent parents indulging
them therein, are, as it were, prepared for
ruin, unlefs divine mercy interpofe; and
are alfo removed out of the way . of the
greateft bleffing that can be enjoyed in the
things of this life; viz. a truly religious
hufband or wife.

Some parents have been pierced through
with much forrow by fuch means, and have
had gretlt caufe to repent when it was too
late, and there hath been reafon to fear that
the blood of their children would be requir-
ed at their hands. Oh! how diihonourably
have feme leaned to unfuitable connexions

C far

10 Advice, Catitmiy and Counfel

for their children, when there hath been a
large outward profiieil ! It is to be feared
divers parents have looked at little elie.
This hath fometimes appeared to have been
the cafe, by the llight put upon the offers
of thofe, who have wanted nothing to re-
commend them but wealth; the want of
which, in the eye of fuch, has proved fo
offenfive, that they feem to have been re-
ceded on that account. This is very wrong,
and oug;ht never to have entrance amongft
ariy profciilng the Chriftian name; " Itov
'' the earth is the Lord^, and the fulnefs
'' thereof.*"

' Some perhaps may think I am very clofe
and itxtTQ upon parents ; that it is not al-
ways their fault when children take undue
liberties; (which I have already granted)
that they^are frequently very felf- willed and
tmgovernable. This is indeed faying fome-
thinp-, when children become their own
rulers by age, or other wife, and have to
cloath and prcvide for themfelves; but I
think it has little weight whiilf their parents
provide for them, who have not only power
to advife and perfviade, but alfo to com-
mand and reftrain. They certainly may
and ought to be abfolute, in cafes where ihe
' teftimony of truth is in danger of "^fuffcring.

It

* Thcfe hints are not intended to encourage any to afpire
after great things ; but that alJ fliould, with a fingle eye, ear-
neftlj feek for divine counfel, both in making and accepting
offers ior marriage.

lo' Parents and Chilch m. 1 1

It is very obfervable, that Eli was greatly
blamed, becauie he, having power, did not
reftrain his wicked fons ; though it plainly
appears he much difapproved of their prac-
tices, and expoilulated with them on that
account, and laid before them the pernicious
confequences of their evil conduct. Oh!
how very afFedling it is, to confider the fear-
ful calamities which came upon that houfe;
and alfo upon Krael, probably in fome mea-
fure on the fame account.

The negle6l and imprudent indulgence of
parents in the training up their children, is
alfo a painful lofs to the ibciety, as the con-
fequence thereof tends greatly to obllruifl
the progrefs of truth, by (landing in the
way of feinous inquirers as ftvmibling-
blocks ; when it is feen by fuch, that the
fame undue liberties they are called out of,
are indulged amongft us, they are offended^
Oh! that parents, children, and all who
are unfaithful, and who eafily fuffer the
important branches of our Chrifcian tefti-
mony to fall (as indeed they would all ap-
pear, if they were ktw in a true light)
would deeply confider the mournful confe-
quence thereof, by retarding the progrefs of
truth, and grievoufly eclipfing the beauty
of Sion! Then I greatly h^ope a more lively
zeal and holy ardour would prevail, and
that the carelefs fons and daughters thereof
would arife, and fhake themfelves from the
dull of the earth, putting on the beautiful

garment

12 Advice^ Caution^ and Couvfcl

garment of holinefs and truth, that flie
might become more and more a praile in the
earth.

Having offered a few remarks concerning
the important duty of parents, it now i e-
mains to do the fame refp^dling the indif-
penfible duty of children to honour and obey
their parents in the Lord^ which is ftrongly
enjoined in the holy fcriptures, and, in the
nature of things, of lafting and indifpenfa-
ble obligation.

The command is, ^' Honour thy father
^' and thy mother, that thy days may be
•' long upon the Land which the Lord
" thy God giveth thee.*" Read Matt. xv.
4. Mark vii. 10. Luke xvlii. 20. Eph. vi. 2,
3. In that which is confident with the law
of God, no children can {land acquitted
before the fupreme Judge, for diibbeying
or difhonouring their parents. This obedi-
ence and honour not only extend to the
yielding to what they enjoin or diredl, but
alfo to the prefervation of a reverent awe,
and honourable efteem in the heart, arifing
from a bottom of love, which would on all
juft occafions cheriih and proteft them. It
is a fm of a deep dye to difregard and flight
parents, as appears by Dcut. xxvii. 16.
^' Curled be he that fetteth light by his fa-
** thcr or his mother;" and Prov. xxx. 17,
^^ The eye that mocketh at Iiis father, and

^* dcfpifeth

■n Exod. XX. 12.,

ft? Parents and Children. 13

** d/?fpifeth to obey his mother, the ravens
*' of the valley ihali pick it out, and the
'' young eagles iliall eat it." Chap, xxiii.
22. " Hearken unto thy father, and defpife
" not thy mother when llie is old." Chap,
x^viii. 24. '^ Whofo robbeth his father or
" his mother, and faith. It is no tranfgref-
*' fion, the fame is the companion of a
'' deftroyer."

On the other hand, very memorable was
the kind and watchful Providence which at-
tended fuch as feared the Lord, and thofe
who loved, honoured, and obeyed their
parents; as Jacob, Jofeph, Ruth, Samuel,
and David; alfo the Rechabites. Read the
account concerning them, Jer. xxxv. Re-
fpecling fuch as lived in the fear of the
Lord, let me recommend the cafe of Daniel,
* and the three children, who, becaufe of
their faithfulnefs to God, were preferved
unhurt, when by their adverfaries expofed'
to the greateft torment and danger.

It would far exceed the bounds of my
intention to particularize all thofe excellent
patterns and examples we are favoured with
the account of, which are wonderfully
adapted to inilrucfl, encourage, and improve
the youth, as well as others. There are
aifo, for caution and warning, examples
and very affeding inflances of fearful judg-
ments and dreadful calamities, which fell
\i|3on the rebeUious and gainfayers. May

tlie
* Pin. iii>

14 Advice^ Caution^ and Coiirtjel

the tender minds of youth, by reading thefe
things, (as recorded in the holy icriptures
and other good book^) be deeply imprelTed
with proper lentiments concerning good and
evil, and the very different rewards of vir-
tue and vice, both in this world, and in the
world to come.

It is a very commendable, as well as a
very profitable thing, to be converfant in
thofe facred writings. Remember what
Paul faid of his beloved fon Timothy, viz.
*' From a child thou haft known the holy
fcriptures, which are able to make thee
wife unto falvation, through faith which
is in Chrift Jefus. All fcripture given by
infpiration of God, is profitable for doc-
trioie, for reproof, for corredion, for in-
ftru6lion in righteoufnefs ; that the man
of God may be perfect, thoroughly fur-
niflied unto all good works.*" But let
the youth and all duly confider, that the
profiting by the facred writings entirely de-
pends upon the holy living powerful faith
of Chrift, which worketh by love, purify-
ing the heart; and whereby we come to fee
him who is invifible, and confequently to
underftand the precious myfteries of his
kingdom, as far as is proper and neceffary
for us to know them, which is all that is
lawful for us to defire. There are many
Other good dnd profitable books, but none

in

* 2 Tim. iii. i^y 16, 17.

to Parents and Children. 1 5

in which is contained fuch a ftore of rich
treailire, and fublime heavenly myfleries,
wonderfully wrapped np, and entirely con-
cealed from earthly wifdom ^d carnal poli-
cy. For none can know the things of God
without 'the affiilance of his Spirit," as ap-
pears by I Cor. ii. 10. to 15. and in many
other places too tedious to enumerate.

Great hath been the concern of the
church in its largeft collective body; as
appears by frequent and very preiTnig affec-
tionate advice, caution, and counfel to the
youth, to read the holy fcriptures, and
other profitable books, carefully to refrain
from all fuch which may have the leaft ten-
dency to alienate their minds from the holy
fear of God, and a fober virtuous courfe of
life, or which are barely for amufement,
being unprofitable; whereas time is very
precious, fhort, and uncertain; therefore
it fliould be carefully improved to the foul's
everlafting advantage. Moreover, that the
youth do yield ftridl and careful obedience
to -the Divine Monitor within, to parents,
and all thoie who have the rule over them
without, carefully to fhun the vain impro-
fitable amufements, as well as the corrupt
converfation of the world : earneftly admo**
nifliing all, to avoid every thing in their
drefs and addrefs, which might have the
leaft tendency to render them fuitable for
an intercourfe, league, or amity wdth the
children of the laad \ or of a depraved de-
generate

1 6 Advice^ Caution^ and Goiinjel

generate world, that wallows in pollution
and great defilements, left they ilionld be
drawn afide, as Dinah was,* by goirg out
to fee the daughters of the land ; and as the
children of lirael were, by their woeful in-
timacfy" "with the daughters of Moab and
Midian.f Read the whole chapter; not
forgetting the dreadful fall of Solomon, the
wifeft king, who, by contracting intimacy
with thofe that were ftrangers to God, and
his holy covenant, came to have his heart
drawn away from the living and true God,
who had appeared to him in Gibeon; and
fo greatly debafed himfelf, as to bow down
to their paltry dumb idols. Time would
fail to recapitulate one half of the mournful
iiiftances recorded in the holy fcriptures,
and other authentic accounts, concerning
the hurtful confequences of God's people
mixing and joining with the nations. It
is their fafety to be feparate, and to dw^eli
alone.}.

Our youth have been alfo highly favoured
with a living powerful miniftry, which
hath often reached the V/itnefs of God in their
hearts. What a wonderful favour ils this!
when we confider that the greateft part af
Chriftendom, almoft ever fince the apoftles
days, have deprived themfelves thereof, by
fubflituting human wildom and learning in
its place; fo that the panting thirfly ioul

could

* Gen. xxxlv. z. t Numb. xxv. :j: Numb, xxiii. 9.

ta Parents and Children. iy

could meet with little from their minifters,
but the muddy naufeous waters pf Babylon
to drink; neither could they dire(5i to the
paftures of Chrift's flo'ck; but counfel was
darkened by a multitude of words without
knowledge, and the commandments of God
made void by the precepts, inventions, and
injuh(flions of men. What a blefled time
is your lot caft in, even when evangelical
Light and Truth hath difcovered itfelf in
perfedl purity! Oh! that our youth would
confider and deeply ponder in their hearts,
that notwithftanding the great and earneft
labours many ways bellowed in godly love
and zeal for the whole fociety's prefervation
in the way of truth and rightebufnefs, yet
very forrowful and obvious hath been the
declenfion in pradlice of many amongfl us*
A mournful inundation of undue liberties
has flowed in ; many have made grievous
advances in thofe corrupt perilhing plea-
fures, and trifling amufements, which our
truly pious predeceflbrs Wholly denied, and
turned their backs vipon, and have left us
large and lively teftimonies, by way of
warning and caution, carefully to avoid
being entangled with fuch yokes of bon-
dage. All thefe things have prevailed for
want of abiding in the fear of God, and
duly confidering that he is ever prefent, be-
holding all our words and adlions, be they
ever fo much concealed from the view of
mortals: vet he knows them altogether.

D When

1 8 Advice J CautioHy and Counfet

When the mind is fufFered to turn to hi^^
pure Witnefs in the heart, we find reproof,
corre(5tion, and judgment, for giving way
to wrong things : and as the youth abide in
fubjedlion thereunto, they will be afraid to
tranlgrefs its pure law in the mind ; which
they will find agree exadlly with the pre-
cepts and injunctions recorded in holy writ,
refpedling their duty to God, to their pa-
rents, and all mankind.

The reafon why many, who fee their du-
ty, fail in the performance, is their depart-
ing from the perfect law of liberty, and of
the Spirit of life in their minds. They
may be informed concerning their duty by
outward means and law : but the ability is
only to be found arifing from the inward
law, agreeable to Rom. viii. 2. *' For the
*' law of the Spirit of life in Chrift Jefus
*' hath made me free from the law of lin
*' and death." In obedience and hvimble
fubjeclion to this holy law, youth would
eiijoy that pure peace, heavenly ferenity,
and fweet confolation of foul, which infinitely
lurpafleth all the treafures and pleafures of
the earth ; and would have a well-grounded
hope of a happy eternity. It is the adver*-
fary that leads to that obduracy and felf-
willed rebellious ftate of mind, to be ob-
ferved in fome of the youth, who, by their
vincontroulable difpofitions, adminifler great
forrow and anxiety to their parents and
friends, being pufted up with vain conceits
in their unexperienced minds, that they are

more

to Parents and Children, 1 9

more capable of judging for themfdves,
than thofe of greater experience are for
them; by reafon whereof too many, it is
to be feared, have ruflied on to the ruin qf
body and foul.

Very great is the danger when the young
and unexperienced are proud and opinionated.
This naturally raifes above inftrudlion, put'-
ting them out of the way of being truly
profitable, either to themfelves or others.
Such, tinlefs their hearts are mercifully
turned by a fupernatural power, are never
likely to be fit for governing families, or
to a(fl as members in thca church of God.
Seeing, unkfs their unmortified wills and
tempers are fubmitted to (however unreafon-
able) they will break the peace of fociety,
and violate the w^holefome order thereof^
being hke the unfubjeded bulls of Bafham

When any afTume the outward form of
religion, and take upon tihem to be ailive
members, without a change of heart, they
prove a painful burden to living members-;
neither can fuch make fuitable help-mates
as hufbands or wives ; nor can they in that
ftate rightly fill up the honourable ftations
of parents, matters and miftrefles, friends,
neighbours, or tradefmen. I do therefore,
in much affection, and defire for the wel-
fare of tender youth, caution and w^arn
them carefully to avoid the company and
converfation of fuch, though under the
fame profeffion; who difregard their parents.

^o Advice^ CmitioUj mid Conn/el

and thofe who have the rule over them;
who flight or fpeak contempts oufly of thcijr
betters, fuch as minifters and elders, &c^
or of the Chriftian advices frequently given
forth by the yearly and other meetings, or
of the wholefome difcipline eftablifhed
amongft us as a people in the wifdom of
truth : do not join fuch in marriage, how-
ever great the outward profpedl may appear ;
for tender religious minds cannot be happy
with fuch in that connexion. And as thp
fear of the Lord is the beginning of wifdom,
and that which makes and keeps the heart
clean, learn it in tender age ; by it you will
he taught to remember your Ci^eator in tlie
days of your youth, and, agreeable to the
injuncflion of our bleffed Lord, to feek firft
the kingdom of God, and his righteoufnefs^
and all things neceffary here will be add^d.
Divine wifdom, as it is regarded, will di-
re<5l your fleps in the courfe of this iliort
pilgrimage, in the choice of proper help-
mates, and all other affairs of confequence.

The fame watchful Providence will be
over you in care, guidance, and proteiSion,
if you look to it, which attended thofe who
lived in his fear, as you may read in the
holy fcriptures.

It greatly behoves you to look diligently
^o the foot-fteps of ChrifVs companions,
who walked with him through many tribu-
lations, having waflied their robes, and
made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

Be

t^o Parents and Children. i2*x

Be truly contented with that low, humble,
lelf-dejiying way which yeu fee they walked
in; you can iiev^r mend ii. If you feek
more liberty than that allows of, it will oiaJy
bring upon you darknefs, pain., and vexati-
on of fpirit. Take noti<:e of trieads writ-
ings in early tii^nes, and for, a conCderable
number* of years, how wonderfully tli^
power and love of God was with theiii and
how marvclloully tl-tey were prate6lGd'
amidft the raging foaming waves of eartiily
powers, combined to lay wafte the heritag-e.
What encouraging and excellent accounts
had they to leave upon record fpx us, con^
cerning th^ mighty powerful overfhadow--
ing of the canopy of heavenly love and lift
in their religious aflemblies^ and of the glo-
ry of God fhining forth amt)ngft theml
This, through the mercy of God, is not
departed ; though there bav.e been fome re-
moves thereof. % '^

Dearly beloved youth : Lay to heart the
great flacknefs of zeal which appears in too
many; the dimnefs, flatnefs, and the pain-
ful gloomiaefs, which fpreads itfelf over
our aflemblies in this our day, hard to
break through, many times depriving us of
the heavenly places in Chrift jefus our Lord!
It is not of Him we are in this condition,
but it certainly is our own fault, becaufe
^rong things are fuffered to prevail. Oh!
that our youth may be ftirred up in a godly
zeal to cry out fervently with the prophet

Eliiha,

%1 Advice y Caution^ and Counfel

Eliflia, " Where is the Lord God of Eli-
*' jah?*" And to be as vigilant as he in
ardent endeavours to be endi.ied with the
fame Spirit, to fucceed thofe honourable
worthiesT who are removed from works tq
receive a blefled reward. Confider the bu-
finefs of your ^ day is to come up in a faith-
ful fucceflion, maintaining the caufe ^nA.
teftimony of God, left with you by your
anceftors, or thofe who ar& removed as
-above. \ Stand faft therefore in the liberty
pvuxhafed fqr you by great fufFerings, and
fhedding of innbcent blood; be afraid to
trample thereon ; which all certainly do,
who turn away from the trutj^ as it was
received, held forth, and maintained hy
them. May it be very precigftis in your
eyes from generation to generation, until
time fliall be no more ! Thofe who other-
wife efteem it, turning their backs there-
upon, violating the bieiled teftimony thereof
in its feveral branches, will (unlefs they
repent) be wholly reje(5led and caft ofj^_a$
being unwotthy of fo great an honour, as
that of holding forth a ftandard of truth
and righteoufnefs to the nations ; and others
will be called and chofen for that great and
glorious work: yea, the Lord is able to
raife up of thofe who may be compared to
the ftones, and to make them Abraham'is
<:hildren, by doing his works j while thoft,

who

* Z Kings ii. 14.

to Parents and Children, 23

who might have been the children of the
kingdom, may by difobedience provoke
him to exclude them.

I fhall conclude this affe(5tionate addrefa
to our youth with the words of Chrift,
by his faithful fervant John, to the church
in Philadelphia, *^ Behold I come quickly;.
" hold that faft which thou haft, that no
" man take thy crown. Him that over-
" Cometh, will I make a pillar in the tem-
*' pie of my God, and he ftiall go no
*' more out; and 1 will write upon him
*' the name of my God, and the name of
*' the city of my God, which is Ne^iu
" Jerufalem^ which cometh down out of

heaven from my God : and I will write

upon him my new name.*"

iC

CHAPTER II.

Containing fome brief Obfervations con-
cerning the Nature and Necessity
of the New Birth.

TH E ftanding dodlrine preached by
our Lord Jefus Chrift to Nicodemus,
of the neceffity of being born again, John
iii. 3 — 8. and what is delivered by John
the Baptifc concerning the baptifm of Chrift

with

Rer. iii. xi, la.

1^4 Oh the Nature and Nccejfiiy

with the H0I7 Ghofl and fire,* being the"
fame ia fubftance, which is alfo fet forth by
the prophet Malachi, tinder the Hvely mc-^
taphors of a refiner s fire^ a purifier of Jtl'ver^
sind fuller s foap^^ with many other pafTages
of like import in holy writ, although of the
utmoft confeqnence to be rightly underftood,
weightily confidcred, and deeply pondered
by all, is by the generality much overlook-
ed, and amazingly neglected. That which
alone can lay a fure foundation for happi-
nefs, both in time and eternity, is hardly
thought of by many with defire, or even
with any degree of lerioufnefs ; unlefs it be
to iliun and evade the force of that power^
which thereby would feparate them from
their beloved lufls and fleflily gratifications.
In order to efFeft this, many and exceeding-
ly abfurd have been the conje(5lu.res and
dreams of a great part of mankind ; but all
to fhun the crofs ; that corrupt felf, with all
its feeming rich treafure and adorning,
might be faved. This felf, in many, has
been more fond of a religious kind of orna-
ment and treafure, than thofe of any other
fort; towards whom the fubtile transformer
hath not been Vv'anting plentifully to furniih
all thofe minds who have a religious turn.
Antichrift, as an eminent f author obferves,
can bring forth in his church a likenefs or
imitation of every thing that is to be found

in

* Matt. iii. 10, : i, i:. f Mai. Hi. \, 2, 3, 4.
\ 1, Fenington.

«c

of thd Neiv Birth, 25

la Hon. O then ! how greatly it behoves
mankhKl to prefs after a certainty ; fince no-
thing can poffibh/ center the foul in a more
deplorable ftate, than a miftake of this
kind.

• But fome are apt to doubt whether fuch
a thing as aa infallible evidence of our
adoption is attainable here ; though fo fully
aflerted in the holy fcriptures. This is not
to be wondered at, with refpecl to thofe who
are in the natural, unrenewed (late; feeing
the natural man, according to Paul's doc-
trine, *' underftandeth not the things of the
Spirit of God, neither indeed can he
know them, becaufe they are fpiritually
*^ difcerned.^" But I am perfliaded none,j
who have really experienced the new birth,'
remain doubtful or fcrupulous concerning
this important truth. It Teems to me alto-
gether unreafon:ible to fuppofe Infinite'
Goodnefs, who knows the fallibility and
great weaknefs of his creature man, fliould
leave any, v/hofe liearts are fully devoted to
yield obedience to his will, in a ftate liable
to miftake the fame, or in any v/ife ignorant
of his divine approbation, upon a careful
difcharge of their duty to him. This holy
evidence in faithful fouls is indeed the white
ftone, and in it a new name written^ which
none know fave tlioie who receive it ; being
an afTurancc that their names are written in-

E heavea^

^ I Cor. ii; 14,

26 On the Nature and NeceJ/lty

heaven : from whence arifes a joy, which^s
unfpeakable and full of glory. . *

A fenfe of the wrath of God againft evil,
doth often make deep impreflions upon the
minds of many ; fo that they in painful re--
morfe are ready to cry out for mercy and
forgivenefs of their fins. And feeing this
fenfibility upon the mind of man, that he
hath difplealed his Creator, neither doth nor
can proceed from any thiiig in man, but the
pure witnefs of God placed there; fo it is
quite reafonable to conclude, that this di-
vine Witnefs, upon our faithfully difcharg-
ing the duty we owe to God, according to
its difcoveries, will imprefs our minds with
a fweet fenfe of divine approbation, agreea-
\)\t to Rdm. viii. i6. " The Spirit itfelf
*' beareth witnefs with our fpirit, that we
" are the children of God." With many
other paffages in holy writ of like import.

When any are really difpofed to be reli-
gious, great care iliould be taken in their
.firll: fetting out. Many have been marred
upon the wheel, for want of patience to en-
dure proper tempering; endeavouring to be
formed into veffels, before they have paiSed
through the necefTary operation. This has
been for want of thoroughly knowing them-
felves. For every thing that appertains to
the creaturely will, and forwardnefs of de-
.fire to choofe and adl for itfelf, mufl die up-
on the crofs ; therefore there mull be a re-
maining as a chaos without form and void,

to

of the New Birth, 27

to endure all forts of florms and tempefts,
until the efFedlive Word laith, Let there be
light! making by his own power a perfec5t
feparation between the light and darknefs in
the little world, (viz. man) as lie did in the
great world. Until this is really experienc-
ed, man is not in a condition to be placed
upon the wheel, to be formed into a vefTel
of honour. But there muft be a time for
drying, and enduring the furnace.

Thefe wonderful operations, which I
have, in an allegorical way, only juft touch-
ed upon, muft neceflarily make very deep and
lafting impreffions upon all, who have been
fo happy as fo far to experience the nature
of that regeneration, without which none
can fee the kingdom of God. When any
are come thus far, there will be no occafion
to make ufe of dreams and uncertain con-
jectures in forming a judgment concerning
their adoption. That divine birth which is
raifed in them, naturally cries, Abba, Fa-
ther ! leaving them no room to doubt, when
he is pleafed to appear (which they are
taught to wait in the patience for) of their
having paffed from death unto life ; or being
tranflated from under the power of darknefs
into the kingdom of the Lord Jefus Chrift ;
which confifteth in righteoufnefs, and peace,
and joy in the Holy Ghoft.

The great danger of man's being deceived
lies in the myfterious workings of Satan,
who has a ftrong hold in thofe, who, uport

28 On the Nature and Kecejftty

their firft awakening by the call of Chrifl^
have not fjiffered his power fo far to prevail,
as to make them willing to part with all for
his fake. There is fomething exceedingly
reluctant in the ftrong fpirit and will of
man, to the falling into nothingnefs of felf,
and be w^holly given up to be guided and
upheld by another. This in part arifes from
the excellency of his frame, and nobility of
his' underftanding, who finds himfelf in
naturals capable of efFe6ting great things,
and knows not, till his eyes are opened and
enlightened from above, but that he is
equally capable of comprehending what re-
lates to him concerning the world to come.
Inftead therefore of wholly ceafing from his
pwn will, and relying altogether upon the
gvudance of the Holy Spirit, he is very apt
to be a6live, and imagines God will be pleafr
ed vv^ith his diligence, in the performance of
what he apprehends to be religious duties ;
fuch as praying, fmging, preaching, or
eagerly feeking to join oihcrs in thofe per-
formances; often telling his experiences,
and hearing thofe of others. Whereas it
would be abundantly more pleafing to the
Almighty, and profitable to himfelf, to lay
his mouth ^n the dull, filently to conunune
w^ith his ovv^n heart, and be flill, until it
Ihall ])]eafe the Lord to fend forth his light
and his truth, that the poor ]:ielplefs crea^
turc may move and ad; in a religious fenfe,
Yfith an underftanding informed thereby:

feeing:

of the New Birth, 29

feeing every thing that is done in religion
and worfhip, widiout the fenfible guidance
of the Holy Spirit, is will-worlhip and
idolatry : for if the Spirit of Chrifl doth not
move and aduate us in religious perfor-
mances, we are liable to the influences of
the fpirit of antichrift.

Yet fome perhaps, by way of excufe for
their not being influenced by the Spirit of
Truth in their religion, are ready to call it
enthufiafm and prefumption in thofe who
afiert the neceffity thereof, feeming to
imagine there is no fuch thing in our time
to be relied upon ; yet they will readily own
it was fo in the apoftles days. But they can
give no good reafon why the fame divine
power and efficacy fliould forfake the true
church; fince mankind have equal ntt^
thereof, and the nature of God's difpenfa-
tion is now the fame as it w^as then.

Common prudence teacheth us to examine
ftrid:ly into the clearnefs and vahdity of our
titles to earthly eftates, that we may be fully
fatisfied we are not deceived or impofed up-
on by falfe glofles and fpecious pretences.
Shall we be lefs folicitous about that which is
of infinitely greater moment; viz. our title
to an everlafting inheritance? Man fhould
be very jealovis over his own heart, which
is apt to be partial towards itfelf, and,
through the transformation of Satan, to
footh and flatter him into an apprehenfiotji
that. he is in the way to everlafting happi-

nefsj

30 On the Nature and NeceJJity

nefs, when in reality it is quite otherwife.,
But, alas ! his criterion to form a judgment
of himfelf by, may be the fame as that of
the Pharifee, who went up to the temple to
pray, or rather to recapitulate his own fup-
pofed excellencies. He perhaps meafures
himfelf by himfelf, or by comparing his
principles and conducft in life with thofe of
others ; whereas nothing fliould be received
as a ftandard in this very important cafe,
but the ftamp of divine approbation upon
the heart; agreeable to Rom. viii. 14, 15,
16. *^ For as many as are led by the Spirit
*' of God, they are the fons of God. For
** ye have not received the fpirit of bondage
** again to fear; but ye have received the
^^ fpirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Ab-
*' ba, , Father, The Spirit itfelf beareth
** witnefs with our fpirit, that we are the
" children of God."

Having offered a few hints, by way of
caution, in order that all into whofe hands
this fliall come may examine themfelves
without partiality, left they fall inadvertent-
ly into an irretrievable miftake refpedling
the eternal Salvation of their own Souls, I
fliall now endeavour to fet forth, from mine
own Experience, a little of the Nature of
that New Birth, without which none can
fee the Kingdom of God; confequently are
no true Members of his Church, which is
his Kingdom, and frequently called Hea-
ven, and the Kingdom of Heaven, in the

holy

of the Neiv Birth. 5 1

holy Scriptures. It cannot therefore be fup-
pofed, that a perfon wholly unregenerate
can be properly quaUfied for the performance
of any religious duty, or even the leaft fer-
vice in that kingdom, which he doth not fo
much as fee.

I have, by experience from my childhood,
found two fpirits or feeds ftriving in me for
maftery or rule: I have difcovered them to
be irreconcileable enemies one to the other ;
and that I could not ferve them both at the
fame time. I had an underflanding given
me, whereby I knew one of thofe feeds was
a meafure of the All-powerful Inexhauftible
Source of Goodnefs; and the other, which
had indeed in a manner leavened the whole,
lump, was of a wicked and diabolical na-
ture. By means of this corrupt leaven, I
had a ftrong bias to evil of many kinds;
neverthelefs, I often found the good ftriking
at the evil, as an ax laid to the root thereof,
agreeable to Matt. iii. 10. in order to deftroy
that which deprived the Heir of all things
of his inheritance. I was long in a kind of
fufpence, unrefolved which to join with;
yet faw all depended upon my determinati-
on, and that I had full power of ciioice.
On the one hand, when the awakening vifi-
tations of God's Spirit were upon me, it
appeared very dreadful to provoke an Om-
nipotent Being, of unmerited kindnefs and
mercy, to caft my foul into everlafting per-
dition. On the other hand, efpeci^lly when

thole

3 '2 On the Is ci hire and Necejfity

thofe blefFed impreflions were fbmewhat
worn off, it was next to death itfelf to yield
up all nry fenllial gratifications, and to ex-'
pofe my lei f to the fcorn and contempt of
the world. However, in procefs of time^
the Lord in gracious condefcenfion broke in
upon my foul, by his judgments mixed
with mercy, in fuch a powerful manner, as
that I was made willing to yield up there-
unto, come life or death. For indeed I
looked for nothing elfe at that time, but
really expecfted my frail body would fink
down under the weight of that unfpeakable
diftrefs which was upon me, and that my
finful fovil muft be centered in a ftate of
everlafting mifery. Now the cry was, with
Saul, afterwards Paul, with trembling and
aftoniihmcnt, '^ Lord! what wilt thou have
** me to do?*" There was no holding back,
or fecret referve then,' but whatever was
called for was given up with all readinefs :
this being all I could then do. As to per-
forming religious duties, I had them all to
learn, though I had been trained vip from
my infancy in a jfl:ri6l religious way by god-
ly parents. But the very beft outward helps,
and the moft confiftent fet of religious prin-
ciples, only profeffed, cannot at all enrich
the foul with heavenly grace.

By carefully inquiring as above, I fbon
clearly perceived my bufinefs was to watch
and pray continually; to commune with

mine

* Aas ix. 6.

of the Neiv Birtb. 3^

mine own heart, or the Witnefs of God
therein, that I might receive frelh inftrudli-
pn and help as I had need. Self-denial, and
taking up the crofs daily, was to be my
conftant employ; in the doing whereof I
had much inward peace and comfort, and a
well-grounded hope that I fliould thereby
find, in the Lord's time, the body of fin
fo weakened, as that the yoke of Chrift
would become eafy, and his burden light*

In order to a happy progrefs in the life of
religion, the great thing is, by abiding ia
the Divine Light, to preferve a clear and
diftinguilhing fenfibility between the fleftx
and the Spirit. There is no doing this with-
out great care and Heady attention of mind
upon the Divine Gift. If the eye goes from
this, it is blinded by the darknefs ; then the
man is liable to be milled by a counterfeit
fight, and various refemblances, which Sa-
tan will caft in his way for guidance and
inftrudlion, perfuading him all is well and
right. To be fo milled, and therein efta-
blifhed, is a truly deplorable ftatej it being
very unlikely fuch fhould ever be perfuaded
to believe they are miftaken, as they often
deride whatever appears doubtful concern-
ing their religion and worfiiip. This was
evidently the cafe with a fet of profeflbrs of
uncommon outward fan6lity and puncflual
exadlnefs in the exteriors of their religion,
in the time of our Saviour's perfbnal appear-
ance upon earth; notwiihftanding which,

F thefe

;^4 On the Natufe and Neceffity

thefe very people appeared to be the moil
inveterate enemies he had amongft mankind.
Seeing therefore frail mortals are liable ta
illch dangerous miftakes, how exceedingly
circmiifpecfl and watchful ought all to be!
and what frequent and ftricl fcrutinies
ought they to make into the ftate of their
own hearts! which can be known no Qther^
wife by any, but as the Lord is pleafed to
fend forth his heart-fearching light. This
is a high favour, which none receive but
thofe who are turned from the darknefs, and
are fervently concerned to put away all the;^
works thereof. Very grofs is the deception
of thole, who imagine the w^ork of their
converfion to be an inftantaneous work.
This can be nothing elfe but a delufion of
Satan, to fettle people at reft in a ftate of
felf-fecurity as foon as he can. Oh! what a
length of time it takes, to work out that re-
bellious, ftiff-necked, backfliding nature,
which was born in Egypt, before the new
generation is raifed up, that is fit to enter
the promifed land!

From what is before hinted, it may be
underftood^ that the Good Seed, or Heaven-
ly Principle, arifing into afcendency in us
over the evil feed or principle, and leavening
the three mcafures of meal into its own na-
ture, is eflentially a being born again, or
with water and the Spirit, or being baptized
with the Holy Ghoft and fire ; or man's en-
during the operation of the refiner's fire,

fuller's

of the New B'aS. 35-

fulier's foap, ^nd being purified as filver;
all which metaphors fignify to us, in a very
inftrudtive manner, the different operations
of the Holy Spirit; which is to the willing
foul fometimes as water, to wafh and bathe
in, and alfo to drink of freely; at other
times as a refiner'§ fire, to purge away the
filth ^nd drofs, that man may be as pure .
gold, prepared to receive the image and fu-
perfcription of the King of Heaven; that
lb, where-ever he goes, or whatever he doth,
all who have their eyes opened may fee
whofe fubje£l he is.

It is. very obfervable, that the prophet
Malachi, ' when he had elegantly fet forth
the nature of the new birth, breaks out iu
the fourth verfe of the third chapter on this
wife: '' Then fliall the offerings of Judah
^' and Jerufalem be pleafant unto the Lord,
^' as in the days of old, and aj? in former
♦^ years;" which clearly implies man s un-
acceptable ftate with his Maker in any reli-
gious performances, until he hath pi-eviouily
.known the cleanfing and refining operations
before-mentioned. What then will become
of tliofe who have intruded thenifelves into
religious fervices, and ^mongft his. faithful
followers, not having on the wedding-gar-
ment! who would pafs for his people, yet
cannot find, by exapciining the ftate of their
minds refpeding religion, that they have
trod the path of regeneration, nor paffed
through the many and various pangs of thq
WW birtt, ' Whcu

^6 On the Watiire and Necefftty

When man hath, through the powerful
prevalence of the Divine Principle, obtained
vidlory in a good degree over evil, his foul
abounds with evidence and tokens of his
happy attainments, through the Lord Jefus
Chrift; to whom with tl-ie Father, through
the influence of the Holy Spirit, praife,
adoration, and thankfgiving, are offered up
as incenfe with acceptance; he enjoys an
abundant flow of heavenly love, to thofe
efpecially of the fame lineage, begotten of
the fame Everlafting Father, agreeable to
1 John iii. 14. '' We know that we have
*' pafl^bd from death unto life, becaufe we
•' Ipve the brethren/* It is then become as
his meat and drink to do the wall of God ; '
he looks with indifference upon worldly en- '
joyment, when compared with religion and
the weighty concerns thereof; his body,
foul, and outward fubfl:ance are oflTered up
to the Great Giver; being given up to fpend
and to be fpent for the promotion of truth,
according to the degree of its requirings ;
careful that all he doth may tend to God's
glory. Thefe particulars, and much more
than I can fet forth, ye done from the mature
refult of a well-informed underftanding and
found judgment, which cannot fail of pro-
ducing great peace and heavenly folace,
whereby he is mightily encouraged to per-
severe.

Oh! that mankind would but come clear-
ly to fee the neceffity of beginning in the

Spirit,

of the New Blrflj. 37

Spirit, and walking therein, agreeable to
the advice and praiflice of the primitive
Chriftians! then they would not fulfil the
lufts of the flefli. The fpirit that luftetlj to
envy, and feeks vengeance, would be {lain.
Here outward wars and fightings would
ceafe of courfe ; the caufe being taken away^
the effed: would be no nnore. A felfiih
covetous fpirit, which feeks undue advan-
tage to the injury of others, would be purg-
ed out. Here we fhould have power to love
our neighbours as ourfelves, and to do unto
all as we would be done unto, were we in-
their fituation. All thefe, and many more
good fruits, would fpring up naturally from
the new creation in Chrift Jefus our Lord.
But thofe who have not the ground-work in
themfelves, and lack the virtues of the Holy
Spirit, which are fet forth in the fcriptures
of truth, are blind, and cannot fee that it is
poflible to attain thofe exalted Chriftian vir-
tues now as it was in the apoflles days : and
therefore imaginations, dreams, and con-
jedlures abound amongft outfide Chriftians
(who are numerous) concerning the way and
means of obtaining that falvation which
come.s only by being born fi'om above.
Some fay, Lo ! here is Chrift \ Others iky,
Lo! he is there! but ftill evade the crois.
If that did not flick in the way, they would
furely embrace the right thing, as it is fo
fully fet forth and defcribed in the holy
fcriptures.

The

38 07t the Nature and Neaiffity

The teftimonies thereof have enforced,
however, an affent to the truth of the doc*-
•trine of the new birth, both in Papifts and
Proteftants. But alas! their apprehenfions
<:oncerning i£s nature are exceedingly obfcure
;and carnal, making the fprinkling of in-
fants with a little water (which they call
baptifm) efTential thereunto ; nay, the man-
ner of their exprefling themfelvea on this
fubje^, in the confeffion of their faith to
the world, feems in my apprehenfion to
make that ceremony all, or the chief that is
intended by being born from above ; or that
the operations of the Spirit for that end are
infallibly conne6led to the operation of wa-
ter. Papifts fay, *' We muft believe that
** Jefus Chrift has inftituted in his church
feven facraments, or myfterious figns and
inftrumental caufes of divine grace in the
foul: baptifm, by way of a new birth,
by which we are made children of God,
*' and wafhed from fin: confirmation, by
*' which we receive the Holy Ghoft by the
** impofition of the hands of the fucceflbrs
*' of the apoftles, &c.*'' The Proteftant
Church of England faith, in confefllng their
faith to the world, " In my baptifm (they
*' mean fprinkling infants) wherein 1 was
*' made a member of Chrift, the child of
*' God, and an inheritor of the kingdom of
*' heaven." After an infant is fprinkled,
the prieft fays, " Seeing now, diparly belov-

* Popifli Manual of Spiritual Exercifes, page 4.

of the New Birth. 3^

** ed brethren, that this child is by baptifm
*' regenerate and grafted into the body of
" Chrift's church, let vis give thanks, &c/*
And again, " We yield thee mofl hearty
**' thanks, moft merciful Father, that ic
*' hath pleafed thee to regenerate this infant
*' with thy Holy Spirit, to receive him for
" thy own child by adoption, and to incor-
" porate him into thy holy church, &c.*"

From thefe evafions it appears man hates
death to felf, and had rather look any way
than that which is likely to ftrip him of all
his beloved treafure; though if he was not
very blind and ignorant concerning his true
intereft, he would eafily fee that his fuppof-*
ed lofs would make way for his greateft gain*
However, this unhappy reludance in man
to the true way, has put him upon ftrain-
ing his invention, to find an eafiet way to
the kingdom of felicity, of becoming heir
of two kingdoms; of ferving God and
mammon, though we are aflured that is
impoffible. Many would fain imagine, that
man may be faved merely by the imputation
of Chrift's righteoufnefs ; which, if it were
true, would be a mighty palatable dodrine
to a mviltitude of felf-lovers. ^ Some, who
do not fall in with this opinion, but believe
they muft repent, and that th'ey ovight to
experience the evil purged out by the fpirir
of judgment and burning, do yet put off
this great work, refting with a kind of hope

tha^
* Catechifm and Public Baptifm,

40 ' On the Nature and NeCefftty

that they Ihall be fitted for everlafting hap-
pinefs thereby fome time before they gd
hence; and build much upon the great mer-
cy and long-fuffering of the Almighty,
catching eagerly at the fudden converfion of
Paul, and of the thief upon the crofs. Oh 1
how exceeding inconfiderate are fuch delays !
A faying of Chryfoftom is worthy to be
noted, viz. " God promifes mercy to peni-
*' tent finners, but he doth not promifc
*' them, that they fhall have fo much time
*' as to-morrow for their repentance!"
Others there be, who imagine converfion is
effedled in an inftant; and in order that their
deception may be effectual, the falfe prophet
caufes fire to come down as from heaven in
their fight ; he chat is prince in the airy re-
gion> raiies vehement heats and agitations
upon their palTions. This they call the
workings of the Spirit upon them for their
converfion ; immediately after which a kind
of heaven is formed, wherein they take their
tefl with a leeming fecurity, erroneoufly
fuppofing their calling and eleclion are made
iurcj and that they can never fall from fav--
ing grace, which they doubt not of having
in their poireffion. Oh! how dangerous is
iiich a fecurity!

Much more might be written concerning
the many falfe rells and vifionary heavens
which poor mortals, through the liibtlety of
Satan, and their own inattention, are de-
luded to repofe themfelves in 5 which might

all

of the New Birth. 41

all be happily prevented, were they to enter
into the iheepfold by Chrift, the door and
way to the everlafting kingdom, which is
opened and prepared for the foul to travel in,
by his inward appearance, as before noted.
He will certainly count all thieves and rob-
bers, who come into his church any other
way.

What abundance of robbery is found in
thee O Chriftendom ! . what ftealing the
name of Chrift, and the experience of God's
people formerly, to live upon, and alfo to
feed one another with 1 Oh, what multitudes
there are of unwholefome barren paftors,
and poor, lean, ftarved flocks, amongft
moft or all focieties of Chriftian profeffors !
Their poor low condition, as to religion,
induces them to put forth theit- hands and
fteal. Can the God of juftice and truth de-
light in robbery for burnt-offerings? No;
fuch facrifices are an abomination to him.
His regenerate ones, though often tried with
great poverty of fpirit, dare not fteal;
knowing nothing will find acceptance with
the Source of Infinite Goodnefs, but that
which is of his own immediate begetting.
He will fmell a fweet favour from that, al-
though it be but a figh or a groan ; which
may be compared with the acceptable offer-
ing of the poor under the law, of a pair of
turtle doves, or two young pigeons; and
with the widow's two mites caft into the

treafury,
G

4^^ On the Nature and Necejfity

treafuiy, taken notice of by our Lord/^
Thofe poor humble dependant ones, who
are made perfectly honeft by the juft and
upright principle prevailing in them, and
waiting the Lord's time, may be, and often
are furnilhed with larger offerings, and do
greatly increafe with the increafe of God.

To conclude this head, I fliall thus funi
up the matter, viz. that man's great bufi-
nefs, upon his firft awakening out of the
ileep or ftupefa6lion of fin, is paffively to
yield himfelf into the hands of his faithful
Creator, that he may be pleafed to work in
and upon him, to will and to do of his own
good pleafure. His foul muft, with the ut-
moft care, endeavour to abide in that which
enables incefTantly to pray, '' Thy kingdom
*' come, and thy will be done on earth, as
" it is done in heaven." This bent of heart,
through the grace of God, is a fufficient
guard or defence againft all the fubtle at-
tempts of Satan to begviile and deceive, and
nothing elfe. The moft crafty devices of
the adverfary can never prevail to pluck fuch
an one out of the Almighty's hands ; and
by abiding therein, he is created anew in
Chrift Jefus unto good works, having fpirit-
ual fenfes given, that he may continually
exercife them in difcerning between good
and evil. His heart being made pure in a
good degree by the fprinkling of the mod
precious blood of Chrift, his conftant care

is,
* Mark xii. 42 ta th« end.

of the Neiv Birth, 43

is, through Divine affiftance, to preferve it
fo, that he may be pleafed to tabernacle with
him, on whom help is laid; who is made
of God, to fuch paffive upright fouls, their
wifdom, righteoufnefs, fandtification, and
redemption. They receive from him thole
qualifications, which enable them to co-
work with the Spirit, and perfecftly to un-
derftand the proper bufinefs of their day,
both in the world as ftrangers and pilgrims,
and in :he church of Chrift, as living mem-
bers thereof.

CHAPTER III.

Relating to the Nature of True Wor-
ship; with fome Remarks on the State
of our fociety, both as in early Times,
and now.

TH E nature of acceptable worfliip is fet
forth by our Lord and Saviour Jefus
Chrift, in a manner wonderfully adapted to
the fubjed;; viz. that it is to be performed
in Sprit and in Truth.^ The reafon is given,
Becaufe God is a Spirit ;" and therefore,
they that worfhip him, muft worfliip
him in Spirit and in Truth. f" Not in
the ceremonial, fhadowy, and typical wor-
iliip of the Jews ; (tho' becaufe of weaknefs

• it

f Joha iv. 23.— t Verfe 24^^.

((

i4

44 On the Nature of True WorJJvip.

it was difpenfed to them, until a better
hope, and more excellent woi fliip was brought
in ; whereby man has a nearer accefs to the
Divinity, and a better knowledge of himfelf :
here fuch a brightnefs of heavenly glory ap-
pears, as caufeth all figns, figures, and
types, to vanifli away) but in the truth and
real fubftance of all that was typified and
prefigured by the ceremonial law of Mofes,
the righteoufnefs of that law being fulfilled
in thofe who walk and worlliip in the Spirits

The foul mud bow in perfect fincerity,
humble proflration, and a deep inward fenfe
of its own frailty, want, and unworthinefs;
being at the fame time deeply impreffed with
a lively fenfe of the Lord's adorable great-
nefs and goodnefs; from which fenfibility
renewed upon the mind, by Him alone who
is the fole objedl of worlhip, thankfgiving
and praifes afcend, for the multitude of his
mercies received, and reverent prayer, either
mental or vocal (according as the mind feels
itfelf influenced or directed by the Holy
Anointing) for the continuance of his gra-
cious prefervation in the way of righteouf-
nefs; agreeable to Eph. vi. i8. " Praying
" always v/ith all fupplication in the Spirit,
^' and watching thereunto with all perfeve-
*^ ranee, and fupplication for all faints."

It is clearly to be uuderftood, by what
our Lord faid to the woman of Samaria be-
fore-mentioned, that acceptable worfhip is
pot to be confined to any particular place,

mode.

On the Nature of True Worjhip. 45

mode, form, or ceremony whatfoever;
which was a deceptiou mankind had too
generally fallen into, and greatly wanted to
be drawn from,, being then, as well as now,
too apt to reft fatisfied with exterior per-
formances ; which altho' fome of them once
were to the Jews in oondefcenfion difpenfed,
yet not even then fubftituted in the place of
fpiritual worfhip, nor at all acceptable with-
out the bowing of the foul as above. But
now our Lord fliews the outward was to be
laid afide, and not to continue in his glori-
ous fpiritual difpenfation any longer ; a
dangerous fnare for man to pleafe himfelf
with and reft in. But it could hardly be
expedled that fo much, or fo great a mafs of
outward obfervations could be caft off all at
once; yet in the apoftles days the church
was wonderfully (for the time) brought out
of them, as appears by thofe few things
laid upon the Gentiles.* But alas ! the
Chriftian church (fo called) inftead of leav-
ing all, and becoming purely fpiritual,
gradually decayed as to life and power, and
increafed in ceremonies and outward obfer-
vations, until :Qie became as full of them as
ever the Jewifh church was. Then flie got
full pofFellion of the outward court, having
nothing to enjoy but her own inventions,
and to glory in Babylon, which fhe had
built inftead of Sion, until her meafure

Ihould

* Aas XV.

46 On the Nature of True Worjhip,

fhould be filled up, and her determined
overthrow was to take place.

Paul faith to the Philippians, *' For we
*' are the circumcifion which worfhip God
** in Spirit, and rejoice in Chrift Jefus, and
*' have no confidence in the flefh.*" What
circumcifion is here intended, appears from
Rom. ii. 28, 29. Col. ii. 11. That the ge-
nerality of Chriftian profeflTors, of every
denomination, have lamentably deviated
from this kind of worfhip, requires not
much penetration to difcover. And tho' the
great Author of the Chriflian religion hath
fo fully exprefTed his will and pleafiire in
this mofh important point, yet many will
not be fatisfied without a kind of worfliip
that the man's part can be adlive in ; that
hath fomething in it capable to amufe the
outward fenfes : they would yet worfhip the
Moft High with human abilities, or the
work of men's hands; and by an unjuflifia-
ble veneration, which fome endeavour to
keep up for old mafs houfes, and other
places of worfhip, calling them churches,
houfes of God, holy places, &c. they feem
to maintain a dodlrine contrary to the tefti-
mony of that holy martyr Stephen ; " How-
" beit the Moft High dwelleth not in tem-
*' pies made with hands, as faith the pro-
*' phet;t" and that of the great apoftle of
the Gentiles: " God that made the world,
*' and all things therein, feeing that he is

*' Lord

* Chap. iii. 3. t Aas vli. 48.

On the Nature of True Worjlnp. 47

' Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not
' in temples made with hands; neither is
' worlhipped with men's hands, as tho' he
' needed any thing, feeing he giveth to all
' life, and breath, and all things.*"

Moft Proteftants, tho' they have caft off
much of the Romifh fuperftition, ftill retain
fome outward ceremonies and obfervations
very unfuitable to the fpirituality of the gof-
pel difpenfation, for which they have no
divine authority, nor any colour of warrant,
but what is patched up from the example of
fome in the primitive church; which being
then juft arifing out of a load of ceremonies,
could not be wholly weaned from every
thing of that kind at once; and therefore
feveral of thefe things were for a time con-
defcended unto; it being, tho' a very glori-
ous beginning, but the morning of the gof-
pel-day, and infancy of the Chriftian church,
Ihe wonderfully abounded with heavenly
power, in order to make her way in the
world. Yet, by the rifing higher and high-
er of the Sun of Righteoufnefs, who rules
the everlafting day of God's falvation, fhe
was to put on all her beautiful garments ; to
make herfelf quite ready for the bride-
groom, and, by a gradual increafe of clear
difcoveries, was to grow into maturity of
wifdom, and ripenefs of judgment. Our
Lord clearly intimates the great danger of
tacking any thing of the old ceremonial dif-
penfation
* A^s xvii, 24, 2%^

.48 On the Nature of True Worjhip.

penfadon to the new gofpel difpenfatlon ;*
iliewing they would by no means agree,
or fafely fubfift together. This the experi-
ence of many generations can fully declare.
Oh! what rents, fchifms, and tearing of
the pure undefiled religion of Chriit to
pieces, have there been by means of retain-
ing fome patches of the old garment!

Yet there hath been a godly travail, and
an ardent labour preferved, even through
the darkeft ages of fuperftition and idolatry,
by the true church, tho' hidden from carnal
eyes, as in a wildernefs, that ihe might caft
off this heavy eclipfing mafs of outward
obfervations : there were many rifings up,
through the divine power, againft it, efpe-
cially the groiTeft part thereof ; but the moft
extraordinary, as to its confiftency with the
unmixed purity of the gofpel, was about
the middle of the laft century. Then evan-
gelical light and truth appeared, without
the blendings of ceremonies and outward
obfervations. When the Lord, by his over-
ruling power, had eredled this bleflfed (land-
ard of fimple truth, and pure righteoufnefs,
many thoufands flocked to it, and fpoke the
language, in a confiderable decree, fet forth
^y way of inquiry. Cant. vi. 10. *' Who is
^' flie! that looketh forth as the morning,
" fair as the moon, clear as the fun, and
** terrible as an army with banners ?" Ter-
rible indeed they were to the man of fin,

the

* Matt. ix. 16, 17.

On the Nature of True Worjhip, 49

the fon of perdition, and were mighty in-
ftruments in the Lord's hand to reveal him.
A great annoyance they were to the mer-
chants of Babylon, and thofe who enriched
themfelves by the fuperftitious wares there-
of; which, through the wicchciraft and en-
chantments of the great whore and her
daughters, mankind were deluded to buy o£
them; tho' now the wicked craft is much
more feen in all its transformations, than it
was at their firft riling.

They endured a great fight of afHi(5lion;
but through all, they with patient but un-
daunted firmnefs maintained their ground,
and were made vi(ftorious through fuffer-
ings, as the Captain of their falvation was/
The everlafting gofpel was preached by thenx
in great demonftration of the Spirit, and
with power ; in fum and fubilance as it was
to be preached after the apoftafy: " Fear
God, and give g'ory to him; for the hour
of his judgment is come: and worfhip
him that made heaven and earth, and the
fea, and the founcains of water.*"
This was indeed coming to the fubftance,
after men had wearied themfelves with
abundance of toil in vain, catching nothing,
but vanity and vexation of fpirit. If any
would receive this gofpel, thus preached ac-
cording to the true intent and meaning
thereof, there was no room to evade the

H crofs

•' Rev, xlv, 7.

<c

((

,Jq Ofi the N^ature of Tfiie Worffjip.

crofs of Ghrift, which is the power of God
to falvation. There is no Hberty here to re-^
tain a few ceremonies for decency's fake,
and to invite the Papifts over, as pretended
1by Protefiants ; but all are to embrace the
fubftance, not daring any more to touch the
beggarly elements, fo much proftituted and
defiled during the whole night of apoftafy.
The virgin daughter of Sion is well aflured
the bridegroom of her foul will never more
appear to her in thefe uncertain polluted
things, which have been, and yet will be,
more and more terribly fhaken, and pais
away as a fcroll ; that thofe things tvhich
can never be fliaken may remain, agreeable
to Rev. xxi. I. '' And I faw a new heaven,
" and a new earth; for the firft heaven and
*^ the firft earth were pafled away; and
" there was no mare fea." There ijuas no
more fea; nothing unftable, fluctuating,
and tmcertain; nothing of that element
from which the beaft arifeth, and therefore
no danger of a beaft rifing thence any more.
The 2d, 3d and 4th verfes of the fame
chapter wonderfully fet forth the glory of
the Neiv 'Jerufalem coming down from above,
the tabernacle of God being with men, and
God's dwelling with them; of his wiping
away all tears from their eyes ; and that there
ihall be no more crying, forrow, and pain,
becaufe the former things were pafled away ;
viz. there was no more fea; all is purged
,away which was the caufe of thofe dreadful

calamities

On the Nature of True Worfhip. 51

calamities and miferies fet forth in this Di-
vine Revelation, by opening the {tvtYi feals,
founding the feyen trumpets, and pouring
out the feven vials full of the wrath of God,
who liveth for ever and ever. The fifth
verfe faith, *^ And be that fat upon the
*' throne faid, Behold, I will make all things
•' new!" Now there is nothing of the old
garment, nor old wine left, to tear and
break to pieces the new garment, and the
new bottles. Oh! glorious gofpel times!
May the Lord of hbfts haften th^ni more
generally in the kingdoms of the earth !

Having offered a few general obfervations
tipon the ft ate of things, it now remains to
make fome further remarks upon thofe peo-
ple fo remarkably raifed, as before hinted,
in the laft century, in this our native land;
for their beginning and firft progrefs was
here; tho' many other lands were alfo fhar-
ers in the bright nefs of truth's arifing in
them ; and it may without vanity be faid,
that tiirough them a light hath extended, or
at leaft glanced, over a great part of Chrif-
tendom (fo called) which hath difcovered the
hidden myftery of the falfe church more
clearly than heretofore, and given a great
fliake to the long-continued kingdom of an-
tichrift. They have been, through Divine
Wifdom, eftablifhed into a, firm body,
amongft whom fubfifts the comely order of
^he gofpel, as an hedge, by divine appoint-
^entj for their fafety and prefervation from

52 On the Nature of True Worjhif.

the deftroyer, and out of the polluting de-
filements of a greatly corrupted world..
Notwithflanding which, their prefervatiori
doth, and always will,' much depend upon
their diligently feeking unto, and waiting
lingly and carefully for a daily renewing of
llrength and wifdom from above, whereby
alone all things muft be direcfted and order-
ed for their fafety and perfeverance.

It hath been often accounted by me a
great favour and bleffing, that my lot was
caftin a time when primitive Chriftianity,
in its power and purky, was reflored in the
world; and that I was fo happy as to have
my birth and education aiTjjpngft the before-
mentioned people: for tho' that did not
m^ake me a real and living member of their
body, yet it hc^ppily put me more in the
■^^ay of being fo, than if my lot had fallen
in fome of the foregoing dark ages, and af-r
forded me greater means of reftoration, than
if I had been educated amongft fuperftitious
bigots; for which favour, enjoyed by me
and many others, there muft be proportion-
able returns of thankfulnefs and obedience,
or it will furely add to our condemnation:
for where much is given, much will be re-
quired.

Before I had quite arrived to man's eftate,
I was, through merciful goodnefs operating
upon my foul, brought into a better know-
ledge of, and a nearer intimacy and fellow-
fliip with, thele people in a fpiritual fenfe^

than

Qn the Nature of True Wo^iflnp,

:)y

than before, to my unutterable confolation :
for I found the glorious Lord was their king
and law-giver, and that he was indeed be-
come to them a place of broad rivers and
ftreams ; and that man's fplendid inventions ;
fuch as a galley with oars, and gallant fhip,
could not pafs amongft them: ^' For the
*' Lord is our judge, th* Lord is our law-
*' giver, the Lord is our king, he will fave
*' us.'^'^" This was~ the bleffed language
founded within their borders. My fpirit
hath many times been reverently bowed, and
awfully proftrated before the Lord, in be-
holding the comelinefs, beautiful lituation,
and fafety of thefe his people; in an humble
fenfe whereof I have been ready to fay,
*' Happy art thou, O Ifrael ! who is like
" unto thee, O people faved of the Lord!
*' th^ {hield of thy help, and who is the
** fword of thy excellency! and thine ene-
*' mies fliall be found liars unto thee, and
** thou flialt tread upon their high places !"
It may be objected that the foregoing
contains high encomiums on a people,
amongft whom we cannot difcover thefe
excellencies, but have looked upon them as
a mean contemptible body, who aifed: a
kind of aukward fingularity; and we ob-
ferve many amongft them as eager after the
world, and who love it as well as any people
whatever; and others, who take undue li-
berties, are as deeply involved in the plea^-

flues
* Ifa. xxxiii, 21. Ver. 22.

14 On the Nature of True Worjhif.

lures and gaieties of life, and as mvich
ftrangers to felf-denial, as people of other
perfuafions. And it is further to be noted,
that when we go to their places of wprfhip,
and obferve tlae manner of their fitting in
filence, a Laodicean lukewarmnefs is very-
apparent in many of them, by the eafy,
carelefs condition they feem to fit in, at the
lame time they profefs to be waiting in fi-
lence of body, and ftillnefs of foul, for the
defcending of the Holy Ghoft, that their
fpiritual flrength may be renewed. Surely,
If this is not really fo, it muft be a mockery
and deception of the mod contemptible and
provoking nature in the fight pf an AU-fee-r
ing Eye.

In order a little to open the (late of the
cafe, and to anfwer the foregoing objedtions,
I Ihall now make fome obfervations upon
the defection in pradlice that is to be found
amongft us as a people, efpecially of late
years, which hath caused abundance of pair^
and heart-aching diftrefs to the living body,
who fervently travail that Chrift may be
formed in thofe who have a natural birth-
right in the fpciety, which at prefent feema
to be all the title fome have to be accounted
of us. As to the foregoing part of the ob-
jecflion, this peopl^ have been indifcrimi-
nately viewed in that light by carnal profef-
fors from their firft rife, which dif'covers
the fame undiftinguiihing blindnefs, as al-
ways hath deprived the children of this,

worl4.

On the Nature of True Worjhip. 55

world of feeing any beauty or comelinefs in
the children of light. I have before noted,
that I (tho' educated in the fame profeffion)
did not fee the Lord was amongft them, in
fuch a manner, until he was pleafed to open
mine eyes, agreeable to Matt. xvi. 16. 17.
where our Lord pronounces Peter bleffed, in
that the Father had revealed the Son to him*
Chap. xiii. 16. he faid to his difciples,
*' Bleffed are your eyes, for they fee; and
*' your ears, for they hear." It is through
the fame blefling mine eyes are yet preferved
open to fee, that notwithftanding the great
decleniion in pra6lice, which hath prevailed
over many of us as a people, the glory is
not departed from amongft us : the King i«;
known by the upright-hearted in his beauty^
ftill reigning. Princes do yet rule in the
fpirit of judgment given them of God*
My faith is, at times, greatly ftrengthened
to believe it will never ceafe to be fo amongft
this people, but that they will be preferved
by the Almighty power, through all genera-
tions, a living body; and that the princi-
ples of truth, as held by them, will yet
fpread far and wide in the kingdoms of the
earth. This, I believe, was the blelTed end
for which they Were firft raifed, and mar-
veloufly fupported : this glorious work hath
been in degree going on, tho' very much
^impeded by the unfaithfulneis of many
'^mongft us, vsrho, like the foolifh woman,
are in fome meafure pulling down what the

wife

56 On the Nature of True WorJIiip,

wife woman hath built up. Oh! that all
who take upon them our holy profeffion of
the unchangeable truth, would deeply con-
iider the weight of that obligation which
they take upon themfelves thereby ! It is far,
Q very far! from being a light eafy thing;
as it may, in a proper lenfe, be efteemed an
entering into the foiemn covenant thofe peo-
ple are bound to by their God, of liolding
up a ftandard of truth and righteoufnefs,
altogether meet and fuitable for the nations,
with fafety and well-grounded confidence to
draw unto ; fo that none amongft us need
be afliamed to call unto mankind thus ; viz.
Look upon Zion^ the city of our folemnities!
Oh! it is a lovely fight to behold her walls
and bulwarks all falvation, and her gates
praife; when none of her flakes are broken
down, nor any of her cords loofened ; being
indeed the Lord's habitation, as fet forth
Pfa. cxxxii. 13, 14, 15, 16. *' For the Lord
*' hath chofen Zion: he hath defired it for
*' his habitation." He faith, " This is my
** refl for ever: here will I dwell, for I have
** defired it. I will abundantly blefs her pro-
*' vifion: I will fatisfy her poor with bread.
*' I .will alfo clothe her priefts with falvati-
*' on: and her faints fhall fhout aloud for
- joy."

Many under our religious profeffion dif-
regarding or lightly efteeming this fblemn
covenant, and reiling in the profeffion only,
is the principal reafon that we find divers

under

On the Mature of ^rue Worjloip. ^J

under our name more infenfible, harder to
be reached unco and awakened by a hving
powerful miniftry, than people of other re-
ligious perfuafions. This may feem ftrange
to fonie, but I know it is lamentably true 5
having frequently felt it fo in my gofpel la-
bours. To me this doth not appear hard ta
account for, when it is confidered, that
amongft us there hath been difpenfed greater
abundance of fpiritual favours, of various
kinds, than amongll any fociety of people
that 1 know of: which hath not proceeded
from any partial regard in the Almighty to-
wards us more than others, but the better to
enable us to keep our covenant with him, ia
the difcharge of that great work he hath cal-
led us to. V/here any are fo inconfiderate as
to difregard and negledl fuch wonderful op-
portunities of lafting benefit and improve-
ment, they become more hardened and im-
penitent than thofe who have been more ouc
of the way of receiving heavenly impreffionsi
The portion of fuch, unlefs they in time
embrace the grace of repentance, is very
difmal to think of, as in Prov. xxix. i*
^' He that being often reproved, harden^th
'^' his neck, {hall fuddenly be dellroyed,
•' and that without remedy," And Heb.
vi. 7, 8. *' For the earth that drinke'th in
" the rain that cometh oft upon it,- and
** bringeth forth herbs meet for them by
*' whom it is drelfed, receiveth bleffing
'^^ fromQ-d: but that which beareth thorns

I ** i^nd

58 On the Nature of True Worjhip.

*' and briars is rejec5led, and is nigh unto
" curling: whofe end is to be burned."

Great indeed hath been the bounty of
heaven to us as a people, both immediately,
by the folacing influences and guidance of
the Holy Spirit to all that would receive it,
and alfo by the abundant flowing of a truly
evangelical minifl;ry, raifed up and continu-
ed for the greateil part of this lafl:" hundred
years* But now the Ibciety is much fl:ript
of a living fl^iilful miniftry; yet not, nor I
hope ever will be, wholly deftitute. This,
through the divine bleffing, hath been a
great means of our being gathered into and
preferved a people! but many amongft us
have leaned and depended thereupon ; and
therefore it may be, and I believe it is, con-
liftent with Divine Wifdom, to try how the
fociety will fl:and without fo much outward
help in that way; tho' perhaps more may
be afforded, in raifing up a fpirit for pro-
moting found difcipline and good order,
which will prove a bleflTed means of its pre-
fervation. And this muft be proceeded in
by the help and holy influences of the fame
Spirit, which furniflies the befl: minifl:ry.
It looks as if the Lord was about to make
his people flill more inward and fpiritual,
fliewing them plainly, that gofpel-worfliip
does not depend upon outward means.

It is quite obvious that abundant preach-
ing, praying, and fmging, doth not bring
a great part of mankind a whit nearer to

heavea

On the Nature of Ti tie Worjhlp. 59

heaven, nor more acquainted with God and
themfelves, than they would be without it.
So that it may be truly laid, and indeed la-
mented, that they fpend their money for
that which is not bread, and beftow much
labour without real profit to themfelves.
With refped to us, the miniftry approved
hath abounded with heavenly bread, and
refrelhing ftreams of living v/ater have
flowed through the conduits and water-
fpouts to the plantation of God ; and altho'
many have not improved thereby, yet fome
have grown and flourifliied. But the Lord
of the vineyard cannot be confined to any
particular means for the help and preferva-
tion of his church, tho' perhaps fuch as he
has made vife of in time pafl ; feeing he can
make other means, unthought of by fhort-
fighted mortals, as effedlual. We may fee
he made ufe of the people of Ifrael to fight
his battles, wherein they feemed, in fome
fort, to have been the caufe and inftruments
of their oivn deliverance and prefervation:
yet it was not always fo; for there are divers
inftances of his deflroying his enemies, and
working the deliverance; ot his people imme-
diately by his own power. This appeared
more marvellous and aftonifliing, both to
his people and their enemies, than the ordi-
nary means ufually employed. Upon the
whole, altho' it appears to me fomething
like a chaftifement, that fo many worthy
valiants have been removed, and, few raifed

do On tJje Nature of True Worjlnp,

up in the miniftry to fucceed them with
equal brightnefs, this may prove a trial,
which, toy difcerning eyes, may fully diftin-
guifli between the profeffor and the polTeiror
in religion ; yet I believe the true church
will grow under this difpenfation of God's
dealing with his people. She will be more
grounded and fettled in that which is within
the veil, viz. the holy fandluary and houfe
of prayer. There is her place of fafety,
quite out of the reach of Satan's tranf-
formations.

An holy, awful, filent waiting before
God, is fpiritual Ifrael's abiding in their
tent, where no divination nor enchantment
can prevail againft them. This is exceeding
beautiful, reaching, and convincing to all,
whole fpiritual eyes are in degree openeil,
when they fee the things, as fet forth
Numb. xxiv. 5, 6, 7. '' How goodly are
." thy tents, O Jacob! and thy tabernacles,
*' O Ifrael! A^ the vallics are they fpread
*' forth, as gardens by the rivers-fide, as
*' the trees of lign-aloes which the Lord hath
^' planted, and as cedar-trees befide the
'' wateis. He fliall pour the water out of
** his buckets, and his feed fliall be in ma-
^' ny waters." Oh! what wonderful en-
couragement haye the Lord's cholen people,
to d^ide faithful in that ftation wherein he
hath placed them, whether in filence or
fpeaking, doing or fuffering, prolperity or
adverfity. There is not the leall occafion to

be

On the Nature of True WorJJnp. 6 1

be afliamed of filent worfliip, unlels we are
fb naked, as to be void of a right fenfe of
what true worlhip is. Then indeed it is ex-
ceedingly contemptible, and cannot fail of
rendering us more defpicable in the eyes of
mankind, than fuch are who have a form,
ornamented with man's curious invention
and adorning. This muft of ncceffity cen-
ter all that are fo unhappy in that ftate, fet
forth by our Lord under the metaphor of,
^' Salt that hath loft its favour, which is
*' thenceforth good for nothing, but to be
^' caft out, and trodden under the feet of
*' men." Therefore all profeflbrs of fpirit-
iial worfliip ihould greatly fear being found
in this dreadful ftate, of the form truth
leads into without the life and power: if
that is with them, it will raife them above
contempt.

In my travels for the promotion of truth,
according to ability received, which I have
been engaged in through moft parts of our
fociety, I have feen and painfully felt much
of this forrowful idlenefs and infenfibility,
which has caufed me many days and nights
of mourning with fackcloth as it were un-
derneath. 1 have feen that it proceeds from
various caufes, but principally from an over-
anxioufnefs in feeking after earthly things,
lawful in themfelves, but diredl idolatry
when they have the chief place in the mind^
and are made the principal treafure thereof;
which they certainly are, when moft delight-
ed

62 On the Nature of True Worjhip.

cd in and thought upon. Then how can it
be fuppofed that idolaters can worlhip the
true and living God, any other wife than in
a mere form ? With fuch the feveral branch-
es of our Chriftian teftimony are no other-
wife regarded than for outward decency's
fake, to keep up the forni in the fight of
men. So there is a dead form, and an in-
fipid fruitlefs bearing of our teftimonies,
which can never beget to God, tho' perhaps
it may fometimes beget into the form. But
this brings no increafe to the Lord's people,
except of pain and diftrefs. Vifibie difor-
ders and immoral pracSlices in particulars
have often wounded us, and hurt the caufe
of truth ; but not in fuch a dangeious man-
ner; becaufe, where found judgment and
the Spirit of wholefome difcipline have beea
preferved, thefe Things have been judged
and caft out of the Camp. But the greareft
wounds we have received have been in the
houfe of our feeming friends, by their en-
deavours to maintain our principles (or at
leaft what they liked of them) worOiip, mi-
niftry, and difcipline, all in that form only,
A^^hich the faithful have been, and now are,
livingly led into. Antichrifl has always
made more havock by transforming himfelf,
than by direct violence and oppofition. Let
it be ever remembered what Paul faith,
** For he is not a Jew which is one out-
*' wardly; neither is that Circumcifion
^* which is outward in the flefli: but he is

On the Nature of True Worjhip. 6 3

** a Jew which is one inwardly; and cir-
*' cumcifion is that of the heart, in the fpi-
*' rit, and not in the letter; whofe praife is
*' not of men, but of God.*" None, I
think, dare deny but it would be equally
true, if the word Chriftian was fubftituted
in the room of the word Jew: if fo, the
form, appearance, and character may be.
attained without the heart- work. We read
of fome who had the form even of godlinefs,
yet denied the power, tho' perhaps not in
words ; for to me it appears the moft empha-
tical denial of it, to live and adt in the
form without it ; as this may feem by prac-
tice, which fpeaks louder than words, to
declare to mankind there is no need of the
power, feeing they can do without it. Cer-
tain it is, thofe who inordinately love this
world, and the things pf it, cannot have the
Power of Godlinefs whilfl in that ftate ; as
faith the apoftle, " Love not the world,
" neither the things that are in the world.
*' If any man love the world, the love of
*• the Father is not in him.f "

I do therefore earneftly intreat all, into
whofe hands thefe remarks fhall come, feri-
oufly to paufe, and examine their own hearts
without partiality, that they may fee, before
it be too late, what ftate they are in. If by
a narrow and ftrid fcrutiny they fdould find
that the religious ftrudlure (which fome of
them have been many years in building)

was
* Rom. ii. 23, 29. t ^ Jolin- ^'^' *;-

64. On the Nature of True WorJJnp,

was not ere<5led by the ordering and directi-
on of Divine Wifdom^ it would be much
more ikfe and prudent to have it all pulled
down, fo as that there may not be one ftone
left upon another, by laying the foundation
of repentance from dead works ^ and ot liv-
ing and powerful faith towards God, and
our Lord Jefus Chrift, in a confeience puri-'
fied by his Blood.

Thefe lines are principally intended by
way of an alarm and warning to the carelefs^
lukewarm and formal profeflbrs. As for the
fincere, upright, humble feekers of and
worfhippers of God, they will be eftabliflied
upon the Rock of ages, which the gates of
hell fhall not prevail againft, and reap the
bleffed fruits of the painful travail of their
fouls before God; and in due time, if they
faint not, their parched ground will be-
come a pool, and their thirfty Land fprings
of water: yea, through generations to come,
they will enlarge, and become as a fountain
of Gardens, wells of living water, and
ftreams from Lebanon. The beloved of
their fouls will call, faying, *' Awake, O
*' north wind! and come thou fouth, blow*
*' upon my garden, that the fpices thereof
** may flow out.*'* Then will they fay,^

Let my beloved come into his Garden,

and eat his pleafant Fruits."

CHAPTER

* Cant. IT. 15, 16^

«i

On the True and Falfe Mini/lry. 65

CHAPTER IV.

Containing Short Remarks upon the Taufi
and the False Ministry,

THE prophet Joel, in a remarkable and
excellent manner, fets forth the nature
of gofpel-miniftry. ** And it fhali come to
** pafs afterward, I will poar out my fpirit
** upon all flefh, and your fons and your
** daughters ihall prophefy,*" What pro-
phefying is here intended is clearly defcrib-
cd, I Cor. xiv. 3. " He that prophefieth,
•' fpeaketh unto men, to edification, and
" exhortation, and comfort." Indeed great
part of this chapter is excellently employed
in fetting forth gofpel-miniftry, and the
Chriftian liberty all have to exercife a right
call thereunto. But let it be obferved, the
daughters were to be engaged therein, as
well as the fons, by gofpei law and rule ;
which was accordingly allowed and praflifed
in the apoftolic church. But where the
learning and wifdom of man hath been in-
troduced in the place of gofpel-miniftry, it
has, direftly contrary to Chriilian liberty,
wholly excluded women therefrom. What
pride and arrogance muft I'ach men have,
who exclude all from the miniitry but chem-
felves, for filthy lucre's fake! afluming to

K them-

* Jcel ii. 2^,

4'6 Qntht True and Falfe Mini/iry,

rhemfelves the name clergy, calling others
laity; a diftinftion the true church and the
holy fcriptures arc ftrangers to, which fay,
I Pet» iv. lo, II. '* As every man hath re-
^' ceived the gift, even fo minifter the fame
*' one to another, as good ftewards of the
*' manifold grace of God. If any man.
*^ fpeak, let him fpeak as the oracles of
*' God: if any man minifter, let him do it
*' as of the ability which God giveth: that
*' God* in all things may be glori^^ed
'' through Jefus Chrift."

Here is the* precious com^fortable language
of truth indeed, and perfedl gofpel liberty,
which excludes none wdio have received a
^ift; that is, who are immediately called of
God thereunto, as was Aaron.* Exod.
xxviii. I Chron. xxiii. 13. IJiews at large
how Aaron was called, and, with his poile-
rity, I'eparated by the immediate appoint-
ment of God himfelf. The manner of their
qualification, and how they ihould condu(5l
rhemfelves in the prieft's ofBce during that
diipenfation, are all recorded with that exacft
clearnefs and puncftuality, always ufed by
the Almighty towards his poor dependant
creature man, w^hen he is pleafed to enjoin
him the obfcrvance of any law or ordinance.
Therefore no man ought to receive any thing
'.\^ an ordhiance of God, unlcfs'it appears
indifputably clear that he has comnianded
k; nor yet receive thofe mtn who have en-

grofled
* Hebiews w 4.

On the True and Falfe Mmj/lrf. (xf.

grolTed the minillry to themielves, unlefs
diev appear to have- better authority for.
their undertaking, than their being taught
by human means at Ichools a:icl colleges,

But, alas! the powers of the earth enable
many fuch to take the fleece, whether they-
feed the flock or no: having learned this
trade, they appear as anxious how to make
the moft of it as any others. If any refufe
to receive theih as the Lord's ambaffiidors^,j
and conicientiouily forbear putting into their
mouths, the ufoal method lias bpen to cali
to the magiUrate, Help', help!; <tnd to pre-*^
pare war agai nil fuch. But through t lie.
breaking forth and arifmg of the Light, of
Truth, they have it not in their power to
inake fuch drudges of magiftrates in general
as heretofore. , Neither do 1 think the gene-
rality are lb much inclined to periecutiori'
themfelves, efpecially among Protellants, as
in time paft; but do really believe many or
moll of them abhor the feverell part of it,
and are men of moderate principles. Their
greateil unhappinefs feems t;o be that of fuf-
fering interell to blind their eyes^ and that
it is fo much for their outward advantage ta
keep mankind from receiving the true Light,
which enlightcneth every man ^hat corneth
into the world, ^ left their craft ihoald be
endangered by the ai:i(i,ng thereof. So here
the bluid l.ea,d the blmd,'|' which expoics
both to the utmoft hazard ; yet llich leader;^

frequeutlv
^ John i. 9, ^ Matt. xiy. j;,

68 On the True and Falfe Miniflry.

frequently defpife and deride thofe, who,
from the conftraining power and love of
God, teftify againft their blindnefs; to
whom the anfwer of our Lord to the learned
Rabbles amongft the Jews may not be un-
applicable: *' And fome of the Pharifees
*' which were with him heard thefe words,
•* and faid unto him, Are we blind alfo?
*' Jefus faid unto them, If ye were blind,
** ye fhould have no fin : but now ye fay
** we fee ; therefore your fin remaineth.*"

Where men have fufiFered themfelves to be
fwayed by intereft to embrace a profitable
craft whereby they get wealth, they have
frequently been found very hot and fierce in
fupporting the fame, endeavouring to fup-
prefs whatever hath rifen up againft it*
Hence the experience of many generations
can teftify, that after preaching became a
gainful trade to get money and worldly ho-
nour by, the clergy (fo called) have been al-
ways the greateft ftirrers up of force upon
confcience, and perfecution, for difi^ering
from them in religion ; for which they have
not the leaft ftiadow of example or precept^
cither from Chrift or his apoftles. But all
that his minifters were allowed to do, with
refpedl to fuch as would not receive them
and their doctrine, was to fhake off the duft
from their feet, as a teftimony againft them.
Thefe had received the gift of the minlftry
from Chrift; they had it without money

and
* John IX. 40.

On the True and Falfe Mini/I rj. 69

and without price, ** Freely ye have receiv-
" ed, freely give.*'* But mercenary preach-
ers do not receive their Miniftry freely j for
they alledge, it is attended with great chai'ge
to be properly qualified for it ; and therefore
they muft make an intereft of it again, or
they fhould be great lofers. The plain truth
is, they do not receive their miniftry from
Jefus Chrift; neither can they produce any
evidence to prove that they have received a
commiffion from him for what they take
upon them. Their ufing the words of
Chrift and his apoftles affords them no au-
thority from him; for the very worft of
men, yea the devils themfelves, may do the
fame. Oh ! what pity it is they fliould pre-
tend to be fent of God, ambafladors of
Chrift, and the apoftles fucceflbrs! when
they really are fo manifeftly unlike him and
them ; and have evidently the marks ,of the
ialfe prophets and hirelings we read of in
the holy fcriptures, as hatli been fully prov-^
ed againft them by authors of good account.
Now let us take notice what Paul the great
apoftle of the Gentiles faith upon this ilib-
je<5t, "Not that we are fufhcient of ourfelves
*' to think any thing as of ourfelves; but
*' our fufficiency is of God: who alfb hath
*' made us able minifters of the New" Tefta-
** ment, not of the letcer, but of the fpn^it:
*' for the letter killeth, but the fpirit giveth
** life.f" This plainly fheweth, that mini-

ilers
*Matt. X. S. t 2 Cor. ili.-5., d.

JO On the True and Falje M'miftry,

fters in the gofpel-times were to convey the
quickening fpirit of living and heavenly
virtue to mankind ; agreeable to Matt, xxviii.
19. "Go ye therefore and teach all nations,
•* baptizing them in (or into) the name of
** the Father, and of the Son, and of the
** Holy Gholl." Verfe 20. " Lo, I am
" with you always to the end of the world."
That this bapcizing-teaching with the Holy
Ghoft was that pradlifed in the primitive
church, appears by many paifages in holy
writ; particularly Ads x. 44. " While
*' Peter fpake thefe words, the Holy Gho(t
** fell on all them which heard the w^ord."
Chap. xi. ver. 15^ 16. " And (faid Peter) as
•' I began to fr Cak, the Holy Ghoft fell oix
** them^ as on us at the beginning. Then
** remembered I the word of the Lord, how
** that he faid, John indeed baptized with
*' water; but ye fhall be baptized with the
*' Holy Ghoft." And feeing the difpenfa-^
tion of God to man is the very fame now as
it was then, mankind as much involved in
lin, and eftrangcd from God as they were
then, and the Lord hath gracioufly promiA
ed to be with his minifters always to the end
of the world, no good reafons can pofiibly
be given, why the lame powerful efficacious
means are not now as efTentially neceilary
for man's recovery, as at that time. There
can be no ground for a denial of this truth,
unlels a confciouiiieis in fome that they have
not the uirilUnce oi' the fpirit in their mini-

llryi

On the True and Falfe Minijlry, yr

ftry; therefore it feems for their interefl,
and for the niaintaining of their credit, to
perfuade mankind there is no fuch thing to
be attained now. This, with many other
inftances which might be produced, plainly
fhews them to be no other than minifters of
the letter; and that, we read, only kills^
when the quickening fpirit doth not accom-
paily the preaching of it.

Very judicious are the diflincflions made
by William Dell (in his Trial of Spirits both
in teachers and hearers) between minifters
©f the iettter, and minifters of the ipirit;
he being himfelf a man of literature, and
"w^ell acquainted with the nature of univerfity
education, as he was mafter of Gonville and
Caius college in Cambridge. I Ihall juft
make a few quotations from him, and re-
commend that tracFt, and his excellent trea-
tife on baptifm, &c. to the reader's ferious
perufal.

" And firft, let me note an objeftion, viz.
*' but . fome will objecl here. If a man
*' preach the word in the letter, even good,
*' found, and orthodox doctrine^ no doubt
*' but fuch a man is to be heard, and he
may do much good in the church, tho'
he want Chrift's fpirit: This (faith he) I
have heard from very many who have
thought they havcfaid fomething. But to
this 1 anfwer, That they who wantChrift's
fpirit, v/liich is the fpirit of prophecy,
tho' they preach the exacS: letter of the

'' word,

t(

72 On the True and Falfe Mlnifiry,

** word, yet are falfe prophets, and not tb

" be heard by the flieep. Again, They that

'^ preach only the outward letter of the

*' word without the fpirit, make all things

** outward in the church: whereas in the

'' true kingdom of Chrift all things are in-

" ward and fpiritual, and all the true reli-

'* gion of Chrifl is written in the foul and

fpirit of man by the fpirit of God ; and

the Believer is the only book in which

** God himfelf writes his New Tcftament."

He further faith, " They that preach the

•' outward letter without the fpirit, can,

*' notwithftanding that, both live themfelves

** in all the inward evils of corrupted na-

** ture, and allow others to do fo too.

*' Wherefore, to conclude (faith he) let us

*' know that that church that hath the

** word, if it wants the fpirit, is antichrift's

** church ; and that miniftry that ufeth the

** word, and wants the fpirit, is antichrift's

*' miniftry; and that all works, duties,

*' prayings, preachings, faftings, thankf-

*' givings, &c. v^^ithout Chrift's fpirit, are

*' nothing but the very kingdom of anti-

*' chrift, and the abomination of defolationr

Thus far Deli. — Uh ! of what importance it

is for mankind, of every denomination as

to religion (ours as well as others) deeply to

ponder thefe weighty oblervations in their

hearts, efpecially the laft. Upon that of

Paul, Rom. x. 15. Hoiv JJjall they preachy

c-xcept they he Jent? Deli farther obierves

thus,

On the True and Falfe Minijlry. 73

thus, viz. " So that true preaching, comes
'' from true fending, and this comes from
*' the Grace of God/' Not, fay I, from
the fending of univerfities, bifhops, prefby«
ters, or any other man or fet of men what-
ever, or from man's intruding himfelf there-
into in his own will without a proper call ;
fcut from the conftraining power of the ever-
lafting w^ord of God laying a necefllty, as
expreffed by Paul, j. Cor. ix. 16. ^' For tho'
" I preach the gofpel, I have nothing to
*' glory of: for neceility is laid upon me^
*' yea, woe is unto me if I preach not the
'' gofpel."

It is of the utmoft confequence, towards
promoting truth and righteoufhefs upon the
earth, that the miniftry be preferved accord^
ing to its original inftitution, viz. under the
immediate diredlion of the eternal word of
God, fpeaking as the oracles of God, It is^
properly God's fpeaking by his inftruments
to the children of men, fuch things as he
the fearcher of hearts knows they (land iu
need of; at the fame time opening the hearted
of them to whom it belongs to receive the
dodlrine. Nothing but the unparallelled
love and power of Chrift can bring forth
and fupport fuch a miniftry. It is in the
nature of things impolTible that thofe, io
exercifed therein, can have iinifter views ot
making temporal advantage to themfelves
thereby. Wherever that appears, we may

b^
L

^h'

74 On the True and Falfe Minijiry.

be afTured tlie Lord liath not fenc them;
and therefore they cannot profit the people
at all.

Man fliould be fo far from proceeding up-
on corrupt motives, for outward gam or
advantage, in this important work, that
even tho' good- will to mankind, flowing
from the love of God flied abroad in the
heart, in which llrong defires may arife to
do good, free from lucrative views of all
kinds, and much beautiful gofpel-dodlrine
alfo may open very fuitable, as the party
may think, for the help and edification of
his or her fellow- mortals, yet all this is not
fufKcient to proceed vipon, without the call
and real gift in this fo aw^ful an undertak-
ing; it being no more at beft than the
natural confequence of the operation of that
pure love in the faints minds, even in fuch
as never had a call to the miniftry : yet to
fome thefe blefTed operations, influences,
and openings, may be given, in order to
prepare them for that work which they
fliould v^ait patiently under, until the full
time comes : this will be clearly ieen, as the
eye is Angle. But there is great caufe to be-
lieve fome have launched out upon this
foundation only-, in the beginning of their
public appearances, whereby they have in a
forrowful manner brought darknefs upon
thcmfeives, and Ibmetmies on others; hav-
ing proved only minifters of the letter, tho'
perhaps pretending much to have the im-

puiles

f^-

On the True and Falfe Miniflry. 75

ptilfes of the fpirit. Thefe have been in-
llruments of much anxiety and diftrefs to
the true church, who can favour nothing
with dehght, but that which comes from
the power of the word of hfe.

It may be difficult to bring true judgment,
over fuch, in the prefent low ftate of things ;
efpecially when there has been a fair outiide,
and nothing to blame in their morals. But
it fometim.es hath fallen out, that there has
been fomething permitted to manifeft the
unfoundnefs of fuch, and thereby to relieve
the painful futferers vmder the blading wind
of fiich mini dry,

Inconliderate weak perfons have intruded
themfelves into this great work; who not
duly waiting for judgment to try the fpirits,
and what prefents to their minds, have been
beguiled by transformations to go out in a
falfe heat; and for want of the holy dread
and fear upon their hearts, they have catch-
ed hold of the gofpel liberty again reflored,
(which muft be preferved open, left the Ho-
ly Spirit be qvienched) viz. that all who are
called to the work of the miniftry, whether
male or female, may prophefy or preach one
by one, that all may be edified.*

It has been a painful fuffering cafe to liv-
ing members in fbme places, when they have
feen that both the matter and manner of
fome could have no other tendency than to
expofe themfelves, and burden the religious

I Cor. 14. 3i;>

y6 On the True and Falfe Minljiry.

fociety, who fuffered fuch to affume an
ofEce for which they were no ways quaUfied.
Certainly the church hath power to order
and regulate her own members ; and doubt*-
lefs flie may wholly refufe and reje6l a mi-
niftry, which, upon trial, flie has in truth
no unity with; and even fubftantial mem-
bers in their private capacity, who have
flood their ground well, and have large ex-
perience of the Lord's dealings, whether
minifters or others, ought, in reafon and
the nature of things, to have great weight
with fuch who have not yet made full proof
of their miniftry, nor giveni fatisfacftion to
their friends in general, as well as to them-
felves, and perhaps a few others of little
judgment. Neither ought any to go abroad
to exercife their miniftry, until they know
there, is a general fatisfaftion at home there-
with; not even to adjacent meetings. Some
fuch have been very pofitive and refolute,
hard to be convinced of their miftakes, and
cenforious upon thofe of deeper experience,
but too much like that fign of great depra-
vity fet forth by Ifa. iii. 5. *' The child
♦' ftiall behave himfelf proudly againft the
*' ancient, and the bafe againft the honour-
^' able"

Great order and decency is to be preferv-
ed in the church of God, efpecially among
the leading members, as way-marks to all.
The reafon and nature of the thing demands
a proper regard and preference to age, gifts,

growth

On the True and FaJfe Miniftry, 77

growth, and experience; which will be al-
ways ftri(!^ly obferved and paid by thofe of
right fpirits. When it is otherwife, it is a
fure token of a falfe birth, and that perni-
cious felf is not flain. Where that pre-
dominates, it cannot fail of mixing with
their religious fervices.

That the hearers have a right to judge,
appears from i Cor. xiv. 29. " Let the pro-
*' phets fpeak two or three, and let the other
*' judge." Therefore it is very prefuming
for any to take upon them the fole right of
fpeaking and judging too; or to impofe that
upon an auditory or church, which they are
not edified with, nor believe to proceed from
the right fpring ; for the word preached doth
not profit, unlefs it be mixed with faith in
thofe that hear it.

I know no way to evade the force and
weight of w^hat is above obferved, unlefs it
be fuppofed the auditory in general are fo
void of fpiritual underftanding, as not to be
capable of judging; which would difcover
great uncharitablenefs, and favour too much
of arrogance. I am fully perfuaded, if mi-
niftry doth not reach the Divine Witnefs in
the hearts of the hearers, and caufe them
to aiTent thereunto in fome meafure, it will
never profit them. The right minifters have
a witnefs to the truth of their miniftry in
the minds of even ^ the rebellious ; how
much more fo then in thofe of the honeft-
hearted ? ^

The

jS On the True and Falfe Minijlry.

The danger which there is reafon to ap-
prehend from the low, languid, nnfl^ilful
ftate of many in our fociety, hath induced
me (and feeling my mind in degree warmed
thereunto) to write the more clofely concern-
ing the nature and pernicious confequence
of a falfe miniftry; being fully perfuaded,
that the more formal and fuperficial we as a
people become, the more abundant danger
there is of fuch a miniftry riling, and find-
ing encouragement to grow and prevail ; for
the lifelefs, formal profeJGTors had rather have
almoft any kind of miniftry than all filence.
And on the other hand, a right miniftry
cannot have a free courfe, nor be exaked,
where there is nothing but worldly fpirits,
clothed with a form of religion. But true
minifters muft be like the holy prophet
Ezekiel: *' And I will make thy tongue
*' cleave to the roof of thy mouth, that
^' thou flialt be dumb, and ihalt not be to
*' them a reprover; for they are a rebellious
*' houfe.-'^" And, '' The prudejit Ihall
*' keep filence in that time.f "

Having made Ibme remarks upon the
falfe, as well as the forward and unlkilful
miniftry, which, tho' plain and clole, 1 hope
will adminifter no hurt or difcouragement
to any truly concerned in this important
work, they may (if duly oblerved) be leflTons
of caution and inftrudlion to thole for whom
thev are intended ; and I hope alfb a ftrength

* Chap. ill. 26. f Amos v. 13.

On the True and Falje Mihiflry. 79

to the painfully exercifed under the caufes
of uneaiinefs given by ufkilful intruders
into the work, whether through weaknefs or
wilfulnefs, that they may not be flack in
their endeavours to regulate the fame by
plain-dealing, yet with true judgment, love,
and tendernefs; alljuftly applied where they
feverally belong. Their talk may fometimes
be heavy and difcouraging, as it is hard to
tarn thofe who have taken a wrong courfe,
and imagine themfelves right, when it is
really other wife ; for thofe have been obferv-
ed to be the moft pofitive of any of their
pretended fight and fenfe, yet let the weight
of the ienfe of truth, which is ftrongefl of
all, be laid upon them from time to time,
that the church may not fufFer hurt and lofs
by the omiffion of its fenfible members;
which cannot fail of weakening and hinder-
ing the growth of fuch members alfo in an
individual capacity. I know it muft be
thofe alive in the truth, of good underftand-
ing and judgment therein (and no other)
that are qualiiied to help and direcl thofe
who have miifed their way in a religious
fenfe; agreeable to Gal. vi. i. " Brethren,
*' if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye
•' which are fpiritual reftore fuch an one in
*' the fpirit of meeknefs; confidering thy-
*' felf, left thou alfo be tempted;'* and not
the captious, critical, worldly-wife; for
they have nothing to do to ad in the church
of Chrift, until they are firft {iibjeded to
and taught of the Lord themlclves.

So On the True and Falfe Minijlry,

The main point, in my apprehenfion, is
to be able to form a true judgment of the
fource or fpring from whence miniftry pro-
ceeds; and if found to be right in the
ground, a great deal of tendernefs is to be
ufed, and much childiili weaknefs is to be
patiently borne with. For altho' fome
through fear, and a deep fenfe of the weight
of fo important an undertaking, may (at
firft) fpeak very ftammeringly, and with
confiderable perturbation, yet the fweet
efficacy of the quickening powerful fpirit,
which is felt with them in their fervice (by
thofe who are circumcifed in heart and ear)
far exceeds the fined eloquence without it.
Such fhould be prudently encouraged, yet
fufFered to feel their own feet. There are
but few children, however hopeful, that
can bear much nurfing and applaufe. Oh!
the great hurt which hath been done by the
forward afFedlionate part in fome, labouring
to bring forth divers before the right time,
and by pufliing on others too faft, who in
their beginning were lively and very hope-
ful, to their great hurt and lofs. Oh! then,
what caution and care ftiould be exercifed,
clearly to fee in the true light what to lay
hold of, and what to difcourage in this ini-
portant refpedl.

I now intend to conclude this head with
fome plain honeft hints, which have arifeh
from mine own experience and obfervation
concerning the true miniftry, as it hath

been

On the True dnd Falfe Miniflrjr, ii

been reftored again through divine mere/
for about this latt hundred years, in greater
limpUcity and purity than has been known
(as I apprehend) fince the apoftles days^
This hath not been conduced with the in-
ticing words of man's tvifdom, but in fuch
a demonftration of tlie fpirit and power of
God, as hath (tho' much defpifed by the
learned Rabbies) been a great blelling to
this and other nations ; many thoufands
having been thereby turned to Chrift their
true and faving teacher, whom they embrac-
ed joyfully, as the alone beloved of their
fouls. A great number of churches were
gathered to fit down as under the Ihadow of
the wings of the prince of peace- Great
■was the Lord their God in the midft of
them; their minifters v\rere cloatlied with
falvation, and their feet fliod with the pre-
paration of the gofpel of peace. Many then
ran to and fro, and the true knowledge of
God vs^as increafed. The Lord gave the
word, and many, both , male and female,
were the publifhers of it. And through di-*
vine mercy it may yet be faid (tho' the de-
clenfion in praiflice is great in many) that
there is a coniiderable body preferved, to
bear the ark of the tcftimony of the Lord
their God as upon their Ihoulders, in the
fight of the people, with their feet as in the
bottom of Jordan; and a living pow^erful
miniftry is yet continued, tho' far iliort of
the number formerly engaged in that work^

82 0)1 the True and Falfe Mini/Iry.

For many have grown up amongft us, who
became more fuperficial and eafy about pof-
feffing the fubflance of religion than their
anceftors were. Such have relied too much
on the miniftry, and have not profited in
religion thereby. But they have greatly
declined in pradlice, under abundant favours
of this kind, the miniftry becoming to ma-
ny as a pleafant fong. They hear the words
with pleafure, but do them not ; their heart
going Hill after their covetoufnefs of one
kind or another. Therefore the Lord hath
feen meet to. ftrip the fociety very much in
that refpedl; and alfo to engage many of
thofe who are true minifters, frequently to
lead the people, by example, into filence.
OJ bleffed will all thofe fervants be, who are
preferved, difcerningly and with Drue judg-
ment, to adminifter proper food, and that
in due feafon, whether in filence or words,
doing or fuffering with and for Chrift!
Which doubtlefs'all Vvill, who look with a
fmgle eye to "God's honour above all things,
attending upon the gift received, which in
its operations and requirings is felf-evident.
None that wait aright upon God will ever be
confounded; that belongs to Babylon; but
peace and infallible certainty is known
through all the borders of Sion. Every one
who knows Jerufalem a quiet habitation, is
at no lofs to underftand his proper allotment
of fervice therein, unlefs he falls into the
conferring with flelh and blood j then he

comes

On the Tfiic and Falfe Minijlry, 83

comes to the confufion and uncertainty,
wherein he may fret and toil in vain. But
in the holy awful ftill waiting upon God in
a fanftified heart, which is the temple
wherein Chrift dwells, and our houfe of
prayer, there Satan can never come to de-
ceive us, or to endanger our fafety.

CHAPTER V.

Containing Brief Obfervations upon the
Nature and Usefulness of Chris-
.xiAN Discipline.

UPON all the glory fhall be a defence.
That God intended to eftablifh an

excellent government, order, and difcipline
in the church, under the gofpel difpenfation,
appears from divers pafTages of the prophets
in the Old Teftament, who faw into and
wonderfully defcribed the chriftian ftate; a
few of which I fliall inftance. Ifaiah xxxii.
I. ** Behold a king fhall reign in righteouf-
^* nefs, ^d princes fliall rule in judgment."
Chap, xxxiii, 5, 6. " The Lord is exalted:
"for he dwelleth on high, he hath filled
*' Zion with jvidgment and righteoufnefs ;
** and wifdom and knowledge fhall be the
•* ftability of thy times, and ftrength of
** falvation." Chap, xxviii. 5, 6. '* Jn that
** day fhall the Lord of hofts be for a crown

^' o£

§4 On the Nature and UJefnlnefs

" of glory, and for a diadetn of beauty
^' iV^to the refidue of his people: and for a
^' fpirit of judgment to him that fitteth in
^' judgment, and for ftrength to them that
-^' turn the battle to the gate." Our Lord
and Saviovir Jefus Chrift, Matt, xviii. 15,
16, 17, 18. clearly direcfts his followers how
to proceed in the exercife of difcipline and
good order, both wath refpe(5l to individuals,
and to the church ; he allured them, that
whatfoever of this kind is done under divine
direction upon earth, fhall be ratified and
confirmed in heaven. Chap. xix. 28. he pro-
mifes fuch who have followed him in the
regeneratioii, that they fhall be exalted in
his kingdom, fitting upon thrones to judge
and govern his people. We find among the
eminent gifts of the fpirit, Paul reckons
helps in government^ i Cor. xii. 28. In chap,
the 5th, he blames that church very highly
for their neglepl of pradifing found judg-
pient in the way of difcipline, fhewing thern
the neceffity of putting thofe guilty of corr-
rupt pradliees out of the community, left
as a. leaven they fhoiild aff^<n: the whole
lump. Verfe 11, he points out how unfafe
it was for the Lord's people to have any fo-
ciety w4th the workers of iniquity. Verfe
12 and 13, that it is the church's duty to
judge thofe that are within, viz. her own
members, leaving the judging pf thofe that
are without to God. In chap, the 6th, he
blames them as fharply for goings law one

with

of Chrlflian BiJdpVtne. Sf

with another before the iinjuft, fhewing that
it would have been better they had fulFered
themfelves to have been defrauded, and that
every matter of difference or controverfy
{hould be judged and determined by the
church, in regard to its own members.

• A rehgious fociety, gathered by God's
power, who have received diverfities of gifts
^nd quahfications, are confidered as a body
properly tempered by their holy head (who
is perfect in wifdom) that it may well exifl
by pure laws, rules, and comely orders,
both within and without 5 for the maintain-
ing whereof every member hath its proper
office and ftation wherein it is^to adi, yet
only by the guidance of the Holy Head^ who is
known ever to prelide. over his hiimble de-
pendent people, a prefent help in the ueed-
ful time, fupplying all their wants, as they
wait his time.

^.-Pertinent to this is Eph. iv. 15, 16. *' But
f' fpeaking the truth in love, may grow up

* • into him in all things^ which is the head,
^' even Chrift, from whom the v/hole body

fitly joined together, and c(&mpa(5led by
that which every joint fupplieth, accord-
ing to the effedlual working in themeafuxe
of every part, maketh increafe of the bo-
dy, unto the edifying of itfelf in love."
The apoftle, in i Cor. xii. with great
ftrength of reafon and perfpicuity, Iheweth
the diverfities of gifts, differences of admi-
niftrations and operation?, all by the fame

fpirit^

cc

(C

86 On the Nature and XJfefuhiefs <

fplrit, who worketh in all as he will ; that
notwithftanding this variety, all, and of
all forts, are baptized into one body, and
made to drink into one fpirit ; he fays, verfe
14. *' For the body is not one member,
*' but many;'* and flieweth they are all ufe-
ful to and dependent upon one another,
therefore none have a right to apprehend
fuch a felf-fufEciency, as to be independent
of other members; nay, that thofe members
af the body, which feem to be more feeble,
are ufeful. The near union, harmony, and
fympathy of this glorious body, is let forth
in verfe 26. " And whether one member
** fuffer, all the members fuffer with it; or
"one member be honoured, all the mem-
*' bers rejoice with it,"

For brevity's fake, I forbear at prefent
making more quotations on this lubje(5t.
Thefe are fuiEcient to demonftrate fully the
ftrong obligation all baptized members arc
under, rightly to underftand their places in
the body, and to come up in a faithful dif-
charge of their duty therein, as in the fight
of God, to whom they muft be accountable.
And it likewife appears that every member,
entered as fuch by his or her voluntary con-
fent, is ftridlly bound to keep and maintain
the eftablilhed rules of that body ; the breach
of which not only renders him or her guilty
in God's fight, but alfo accountable to the
body. It alfo behoves this body, imme-
■diately upon the tranlgreffion of its rules

and

of Chrijiian Difcipline, 87

and orders, to exert itfelf in dealing with
tranfgreflbrs, and to adminifter found judg-
ment, in order to reftore them; or, on
failure of fuccefs in that, to difown or re-
fufe to have unity with fuch, and to let the
world know they are not of their body;
that the. reputation thereof may be preferved
amongft thofe which are without, as well as
for its own peace and fafety within; feeing
by a negledl hereof, others may be infedled
by the corrupt member, and his evil may
fpread in the body like a leprofy ; but that
which is the mod affecting, the Lord may
be provoked to withdraw from that body
which negledls the exercife of true judgment
againfl evil ; as in the cafe of Achan, Jofhua
vii, and alfo that of the tribe of Benjamin^
Judges xix and xx.

It is too obvious to be denied, that the
profeflbrs of chriftianity, by lofing the pow->
^ and life of religion, loft the true fpirit of
difciplii;e and good order in their churches.
Inftead of which, they have fubftituted rules,
orders, and canons, &c, of their own in-
vention, principally calculated to fupport
that power by which the clergy (fo called)
got their wealth, and by which they have
procured them to be enforced where they
judged neceffary by human law. The pre-
fent ftate of church government appears to
be truly deplorable, amongft mofl of the
divided parts of chriftian profeiTors tl>at I
know of; confequently they, are, in a very

corrupted

88 On, the Nature and Ufefulne/s

corrupted ftate, greatly lacking that judg-
ment and righteoufnefs which was to fill Si^
on, and the wifdom and knowledge which
was predided would be the liability of her
ti'mes.

Cave and King, in their primitive chrif-
tianity, clearly fliew, from the writings of
many of the ancients, particularly for the
firft three hundred years after Chrift, that
much care and zeal were maintained to pre-
serve the church clean and pure by a whole-
fome difcipline.

King fliews, that not only the teachers,
but the whole church were concerned and
adlive in dealing with, receiving fatisfadlion
from, or finally cenfuring people in com-
mon ; and alfo that no teachers were fet over
them, but only fuch as the whole church
unanimoufly agreed to receive ; and that the
common people, generally called laity, were
equally concerned with others in depofing
and cenfuring minifta:'s, when they ceafed
to have unity with them, page 22 to 25,
and page 112, 116. He and Cave, from
Tertullian, both fhew, that the manner of
the primitives in giving judgment on fuch
accounts was very weighty and folemn.
*' As amongil thofe that are fure that God
*' beholds what they do (fays TertulHan)
*' this is one of the higheft preludlums and
*' forerunners of the judgment. to come,
•* when the delinquent is baniflied from the
*' communion,'* Sec. p, 120. ,

Athenagoras

of Chrijlian Difciplifie, 89

Athenagoras told the emperors, that no
chriftiaa could be a bad man, imlefs he was
an hypocrite; and Tertullian openly de-
clares, that when njien depart from the dif-
cipline of the gofpel, they fo far ceafe
amongft us to be accounted chriftians.
Cave, page 95- \

When at any time invited to public fo-
lemnities, as marriages and the like, the
prudence of the church thought fit to lay
reftraints upon them, and to forbid them
light and ludicrous adlions, as leaping and
dancing ; but that they fhould dine and fup
gravely and modeftly, as becomes chriflians;
for which he quotes a council of Laodicea,
2d part, p. 73. ...

They took notice of all offences againfl:
the chriftian law, any vice or immorality
that was either public in itfelf, or rnade
known and made good to the church. For
(fays Cave) the holy and good chriflians of
thofe times were infinitely careful to keep
the honour of their religion unfpotted, to
ftifie every fin in its birth, and by bringing
offenders to public fliame and penalty, to
keep them from propagating the malignant
influence of a bad example. For this reafba
they watched over one another, told them
privately of their faults and failures^ and
when that would not do, brought them be-
fore the cognizance of the church. It i^
needlefs (fays he) to recko.n up particular
crimes, when none were fpared. Cave '3d

N parti

%)6 On ffje Nature md Vfcfuhefs

part, p. 406. Agreeable to the nature and
con'ftitution of the church, which as it
tranfadls only in fpiritual mattei's, ib it
could inflicl no other than fpiritual cenfures
and chaftifements, p. 408. The common
and {landing penalty they made ufe of was
excommunication, or fufpenfion from com-
munion with the church; the cutting off
and caftingrout an offending perfon, an in-
fecled member; till by repentance and whole-
fome difcipllne he was cured and reftored ;
ftnd then he was re- admitted into church
fociety, p. 410.

Cave relates, upon the authority of Julius
Caefar, that this manner of difcipline was
commonly praflifed amongft the ancient
Druids, who, when any of the people be-
came irregular and diforderly, they prefently
fufpended them from their facrifices; and
thofe thvTS fufpended were accounted in the
number of the moft impious and execrable
perfons : all men flood off from them, fliun-
ned their company and converfe as an in-
fection and plague, p. 41 1.

Penitents, before they were received into
unity, made open confeiTion of their faults ;
this being accounted the very fpring of re-
pentance, and without which they concluded
it could not be real. '' Out of confeffion
*' (fays Tertuliian) is born repentance, and
" by repentance God is pacified;" and
therefore without this neither riches nor ho-
nour would procure any admiflion into the

church

of Chrijiian Difciplhk. 9I

fhurch: a remarkable inftance whereof was
in the emperor Theodofius the Great, who,
for his bloody and barbarous flaughter of
the Theffalonians,. was by Ambrofe biPxiop
of Milan fufpended, brought to public con-
feffion, and forced to undergo a fevere courfe
pf penance for eight months together; at
length, after he had palfed through abun-'
dance of forrow, with tears and great la-^
mentation for his fin, he was admitted into
fellowihlp again, p. 418, 419. Sq wifely
(fays Cave) did the prudence a,nd piety of
thofe times deal with oflendert?, neither let-
ting the reins fo loofe, as to patronize pre-
•^lumption, or encourage any to fin; nor ye^
holding them fo ftrait, as to drjve mea into
defpair, p. 429.

Very forward .and acllve have profeffors
been, and ftill are, in heaping up ofte rings,
by performing what they call religious du-
ties, whilit practical virtue has been fliame-
fully neglected. Multitudes profelTing faith
in Chrill, and accounted members of his
church, are fufFered to remain without con-?
troul or rebuke in various fins and polluti-
ons, to the great fcandal of the chriftian
name; fo that it "may be faid iniquity runs
down amongit them like a mighty ilream or
torrent, carrying all in a manner before it.
What painful apprehenfions muft fill the
minds of thoughtful parents refpedting their
offspring, when, morally fpeaking, no
9ther qan b^ exped;ed th^n t|ia.t they will b^

C.:^rriedi

9* On the Nature and Vfefubiejs^

carried away thereby to everlafling deftruG-
tion! Oh! that it were rightly confidered by
all chriftian profeffors, that obedience is bet-
ter than facrifices or offerings, and to heark-
en unto the voice of God, in putting away
the evil of their doings from before his eyes,
is better than the fat of rams. To what
purpofe is the multitude of their facrifices or
offermgs, whilft the moft weighty matters
of the law of God are negle6led ? viz. judg-
ment, mercy, and faith; even that faith
which is produftive of good works. Let
them carefully ponder in their hearts what
the Lord by his prophet hath declared,
Amos V. 21, 32, 23, 24. " I hate, 1 defpife
*' your feafl-days, and I will not fmell in
•' your folemn affemblies. Tho' ye offer
*' me burnt-offerings, and your meat-offer-
*' ings, I will not accept them: neither will
*' I regard the peace-offerings of your fat
*' beads. Take thou away from me the
*' noife of thy fongs, for I will not hear the
*' melody of thy viols. But let judgment
*' run down as waters, and righteoufnefs as
*' a mighty ftream." Man is apt to begin
at the wrong end, or where he fhould finifh ;
prefuming to perform worihip and fervice to
his Maker before he is in a fit condition to
be accepted; as a Being of infinite parity
will not fo much as look towaids him in
that i^nic^ whilft he hath any fellowlhip
with the unfruitful works of darknefs, qi-
tthex in l;im(clf or others. For the Lord wiU

be

of Gbrijltan Difciplhte, 93

1>e fandlified in all them that come nigh
him. He is of purer eyes than to behold
iniquity with any aflent or approbation.
The contrary of which would be implied,
if man was fufFered to prefent his offerings
"whillt in a defiled ftate. The fame that I
have here faid concerning the acceptance or
non-acceptance of individuals, is true, and
will hold good, in regard to churches, and
countries or nations. Oh, then ! how great-
ly it behoves all who would Hand approved
in God's fight, to exert their utmofl care
and diligence in judging, condemning, and
fupprefllng evil of all kinds, fir ft in them-
felves, and then in every branch of the
community, as far as lies in their power.

I Ihall now proceed to ihe\^, that when
the Lord was pleafed to reftore chriftianlty
in its primitive purity and power, which
ivas in the laft century, church-government,
good order, and wholefomq difcipline was
alfo rettored amongft an humble, fclf-deny-
ing people, who were, as God's people in
all ages have been, much defpifed, reviled,
and perfecuted. Yet, through all the hea-
thenifh rage of their adverfaries, the rifing
up of the rulers of the eartTi againft them,
and the people imagining vain things con-
cerning them, their bands were not broken,
nor their cords caft away. They faw holi'-
nefs was the Lord's delight, and promoted
it with all diligence amongft mankind in
general, but more eip-ei.Uly amongft them-

felves.

^4 Oil the Nature and Ufefuhiefs

felves. The Lord, who at firft raifed chofen
inftruments, and fent them forth into the
world, which was as a briery thorny wil-
i^ernefs, wonderfully blelTed their ardent la-
bours with increafe, fo that in a few years a
large number of churches were planted
(even ainidft all the rage and fury before-
mentioned) and quietly fettled and eftablifli-
cd under the teachings of his fpirit in their
hearts. Hereby they grew up in wifdom
and ftaturc, and in proceis of time clearly
faw, in the divine light, that they mutl
form themfelves into an orderly body, to be
governed under fuch regulations as would
p\it them in the beft capacity, as a religious
Ibciety, of glorifying God, and being the
mod ufefu] to one another, as members of
the fame body ; and that alfo, by being em-
bodied and diiciplined as an army with ban-
ners, they mfght make a firm (land againft
every appearance of evil, with their united
ftrength, under the Captain of their falva-
tion.

Divine wifdom was wonderfully with
thofe worthies iirfc fent and engaged in this
blefled work, directing their fteps with true
judgment, as well as opening the minds of
a numerous people, of various growths, to,
receive the manner- and form of government
and order, which thofe of the cleared fight
difcovered, in the light of truth, to be beft
adapted to promote the glory of God, and
the preferv?ttion of his church and people.

ef Clmjilan Dlfcipline. 9J

Yet there were fome oppofers (as in the pri-
mitive times) even of their own body or fo-
erety; men of perverfe fpirits, who troubled
the church for a time with htigious jangling,
and corrupt difputations. But the Lord,
who knows how to put a flop to the rage and
cunning devices of the enemies of his
church, brought a blall upon them, which
hath expofed the names of the leaders, and
will continue to expofe them through ages
and generations to come. Thus the faithful
w^ere enabled to carry on this great work,
defigned for the defence and prefervation of
God's people, in defiance of all thofe San-
ballats, Toblahs, and Gefliems, which were
permitted to rife up again if them and their
godly undertaking.

Great w^Wdom may be difcerned by thofe
€yes only which the Lord hath opened, 111
his thus ranking and placing his people, =
that they might ftand in fuch a fituation as
to be really true help-mares in Chrifl Jeihs
our Lord and holy head; the ftrong bearing
and helping the infirmities of the weak,
fupporting one another in that which is
good, judging down all of a contrary nature
to it, in every rank and flation ; none daring
to be above admonition, but rather efleem-
ing it a mark of love and fincere regard,
that otliers extend care over them ; agreeable
to I Thefl. V. 12, 13, 14. " And we be-
*' feech you, brethren, to know them wliich
*' labour among vou, and are over you in

" the

g6 On the Nature arid UfefiiJnefs

*' the Lord, and adinonifli you; and t6
*' efteem them very highly in love for their
*' work's fake: and be at peace among yo\ir^
*' felves. Now we exhort yon, brethren^
*' warn them that are \mruly, comfort the
" feeble-minded, fupport the weak, be pa-
** tient toward all men."

What an inexpreflible favour it is to be
even oue of the lead members of this body,
or branch of the heavenly Father's family,
where {o great help and edification may be
received from thofe of greater growth and
maturity than themfelves. On the other
hand, what high fatisfadlion it affords the
fathers and mothers in Ifrael, to fee the
children and weaklings of the flock of teach-
able difpofitions, and carefully endeavouring
to walk according to the truth. Some are
made of God as faviours upon mount Sion,
and as watchmen upon her walls, anpinted.
and appointed by the Holy Ghoft, to watch
over the flock of Chrifl:, as thofe that muft
give an account, whofe excellent fervices
may jaftly entitle them to the application of
that copious elegant language, wherewith
Job fets forth what he had done ih the time
of his profperity. Job xxix. 13, 14, 15, 16.
*' The bleffmg of him^ that was ready to
*' perifli came upon me; and 1 caufed the
" widow's heart to flng for joy. I put on
*' righteoufneis, and it clothed me: my
'• jiidgiUwUt was as a robe and a diadem, f
*• was eye5 to the blind, and feet was I to

'' the

of Chrlflian Di/ciplihe. fff

^^ the lame. I was a father to the poors
*' and the caufe which I knew not I fearch-
^^ ed out.'*

Elders ruling thus in the church are in-
deed worthy of double honour, whether
they labour in the word and docftrine or not 5
being fuch as, agreeable to Peter's advice, i
Pet. V. 2, 3, 4. *' Feed the flock of God
which is among you, taking the overfight
thereof^ not by conftraint, but willingly ;
not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;
neither as being lords over God's heritage^
but being enfamples to the flock. And
when the chief fliepherd fliall appear, ye:
fliall receive a crown of glory that fad^h
not away."
It is of the utrnofi: confequence, that the
members, who conftitute the church of
Chrift, be thoroughly acquainted with the
true fpring of motion and adiion therein^
left any fliould prefumptvioufly conceive or
imagine, that feeing church government
carries much the appearance of outward
oeconomy and civil proceeclingSj human,
abilities, natural and acquired, are fuflicient:
to manage the fame. If any fall into fuch
a dangerous error, it muft be for want of*
duly coniidering the nature of the work to
be engaged in ; it being no other than what
appertains to the fpiritual kingdom of Chrift,
and the promotion thereof on earth : which
kingdom man by nature cannot lee nor un-

derrtand^
O

gS On the Nature and Vfefutnefs

dcrftand.^ And it is written, '^ the world
*' by wifdom knew not God.|'* Therefore
they cannot know his kingdom, nor how to
acl properly therein, under the Supreme
Hca(}^, whom tliey know not.

'To be capable of adling rightly in the dif-
cipline of the church, man muft be born of
the fpirit, or from above, and receive a qua-
lification from the Holy Ghoft for that work.
Such arc the only qualified perfons for main-
taining good order in the churches, whether
young, old, or middle-aged, male or fe-
male, and Ihould be regarded as thofe who
are fet over others in the Lord. Thefe are
feen and efteemed highly in love for their
work's llike, by the difcerning in the
church, tho' they may be of a low degree;
yet, being alive in the truth, they can favour
the things that be of God, conveyed to them
through thefe favoured inftruments ; and
alio reje6l the things which be of men, when
intruded into God's work; becaufe the inno-i
cent life raifed up in them is burdened and
grieved therewith.

Nothing can more afflict the fouls of fuch,
than the darkening counfel by a multitude
of words without knowledge. We may fee
none were properly qualified to judge a,nd
govern outward Ifrael, unlefs gifted of God
for that purpofe. We find they were to have
God for their king; and thofe whom he
raifed up by his immediate power, to be

their

f Matt. Hi. 3. f I Cor, i. 2i»

of Chrijlian Difcipline, 99

their judge-s under him, (herein a perfedl
pattern of the chriPdan church) until they
impioufly rejected a government, than which
none could be attended with more eafe, fe-
curity, and comfort, that they might be hke
other nations, that is, to be more left to^ their
own power and pohcy, and to be lefs de-
pendent upon God. Whilft they looked to
the Lord for judgment, aid, and proteclion^
fee liow wonderfully he provided for them,
Mofes, Aaron, and Miriam in Egypt,
through the Red Sea, and in the wiidernefs.
To the help of whom the Lord alfo raifed a
large number of inferior judges, upon whom
he pvit his fpirit, as an effential qualification.^
it would be needlcfs to be very particular,
in {hewing how the Lord was pleafed to raife
many, and to put his fpirit upon them, un-
der the blelTed influence and ftrength where-
of they wrought wonders for the reformati-
on, deliverance, and protection of his peo-
ple: as Jofhua, Othniel, Deborah, and Ba-
rak, Gideon, Jephthah, Samuel, David,
Solomon, Nehemiah, &c. and when the peo-
ple perceived the fpirit of God was upon
them, they joined fuch with alacrity in God's
work, out of faithful fubjedion to that of
God in and upon them, and not to them as

Very remarkable is the humility and ho-
ned upright petition of Solomon, which
doth amply difcover the ftate of mind luch,

mud

* Numb, xi, 25, a6i

f 00 On the Nature and Ufefubiefs

mull be brcKight into, who are favoured
with fuitable ablUty to judge and govern in
the church of Chrift. '' In Gibeon the
*' Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by
^' night: and God faid, Afli what I fhall
'' give thee. He faid, O Lord my God,
^* thou haft made thy fervant king inftead
" of David my father; and I am but a ht-
■' tie child; I know not how to go out or
*' come in. Give therefore thy fervant an
^' underftanding heart to judge thy people,
^' that I may difcern between good and bad:
** for who is able to judge this thy fo great
^' a pebple?*"

Pertinent hereunto is the ardent concern
raifed in Nehemiah's mind for the welfare of
God's people and city ; the deep anguifii of
his foul (though in the midft of worldly af-
fluence $) Jiis earneft and humble prayer to
God ; the manner of aildrefling king Artax-
erxes upon that mournful occafion concern-
ing the defolate ftate of Jerufalem, and hi-s
whole proceeding in that godly undertaking
pf raifing the walls of that city, &c. Much
might be wrote to fhew tlie great analogy
hereof with the maintaining of the, hedge,
or wall of difcipline and good order in the
chriftian church, as a defence from danger-
ous enemies; but I hope, as the light of
truth has rnercifully arifen, and peoj^le's
minds are confiderably illuminated thpxby,
^lere is not fo much neceffity (efpccially

amongft

* I JCings iii. 5, ^, g.

of Chriftian Difciplins, icjf

amongft tis) to convince them in general
wi)^t is truth in thefe refpecl^, as to remind
them of their duty, that pradice may keep
pace with knowledge ; for which end ftiort
hints may in a good degree anfwer.

I might alfo draw much more from the
precious doftrine and experience of God's
people, recorded in holy writ, concurring
to eftabUfli the truth of what I have advanc-
ed concerning the outward order, govern-
ment, and beautiful difcipline of the church,
which is the kingdom of Chrift, wherein the
fan6lified of God are as fiibordinate kings
and priefts; which is thus exprefled, Dan.
vii. 21, 22. '' I beheld, and the fame horn
*' made war wuth the faints," (viz. the
power of antichrift in the form of a church,
with orders and rules) *' and prevailed
" againft them, until the ancient of days
*^ came, and judgment was given to the
*' faints of the Moll' High, and the time
*' came that the faints polTefled the king-
*' dom." Paul calls this dominion the faints
are to poffefs, Eph. iii. lo. '' Principalities
*' and powers in heavenly places.'* Oh!
long hath this wicked horn had the rule and
government where the faints fliould ! fo that
there hath been little or nothing of the na-
ture of that excellent government which is
found in the kingdom of Chrift. There hath
bden no true vilion from the prophets, the
law hath perifhed from the priefls, and
Counfel frona the ancients, Ezek. vii. 26, and

the

1 02 On the Nature and Ufefulnefs

the glorious kingdom of the Meffiah has for
many ages been as it were baniflied from the
earth, or at leaft hid from mankind in gene-
ral, as in a wildernefs, whereinto the true
church fled, Rev. xii. 6. But the Lord hath
been pleafed in a good degree to reilore again
the excellent order of his houfe amongft a
defpifed people; concerning whom 1 Ihall
now endeavour to give fome account, by
way of fliort hints, of what mine eyes have
feen, mine ears heard, what I have tailed
and handled of the good word of life in their
afTemblies ; more particularly as I am now
upon that fubjecl:, thofe, according to their
degrees of fubordination (as the wifdom
from above hath placed them) called meet-
ings for difcipline, or church order and go-
vernment: which meetings I have attended
with diligence, as I thought it my indifpenf-
able duty, for about thirty years of my time:
near the firft ten whereof I was for the moft
part an highly pleafed and comforted fpedla-
tor of the fweet harmony and comely order
of God's houfe, the love, fympathy, and
care extended in each branch thereof one to-
wards another; in filent feeking the alfiftance
of the Holy Head, that the body might
edify itfelf in love, and the King of faints
be known to rule all that was within us.
For when we become members of Chrift's
body, we ceafe to confider ourlelves as indi-
viduals only, but alfo as members deeply
interefted in the w^elfare of the body. Here

cf Chrijllan DifcipUne. 103

15 an united labour and travail, being all in
one common intereft.

I have often beheld the awful Majefty of
the divine power amongft thefe people, and
could fay in humble admiration, at leaft in
my heart, '' Cry out and fhout, thou inha-
*' bitant of Zion, for great is the Holv One
*' of Ifrael, in the midft of thee!*" there
has been no lack of any good thing in the
camp of God. The glorious Lord hath
been indeed as places of broad rivers and
ftreams, where can go no galley with oars,
neither Ihall gallant fliip pafs thereby. For
the Lord was our judge, the Lord was ouf
lawgiver, the Lord was our king, Ifa. xxxiii.
21, 22. and therefore all the fpl^^^did art
and invention of man in religion, was to be
wholly laid afide, as Saul's armour was by
David, being concerned to go as he did, in
the name (viz. the power and dread) of the
Moft High. When I did thus Hand ftill,
looking upon Sion, viewing her beauty and
excellency, I have i^tcn great things done by
mean inftruments going forth againft their
enemies in the name of the Lord only;
which hath caufed my foul to be knit unto
them, and I loved them as mine own fouL
,This fight and fenfe of things made me ex-
ceeding awful in my mind, afraid to fpeak
and adt, unlefs I found a well-grounded aP-
furance tbat the Lord required it of me; by
feeling the weight of his divine power upon

my
,^Ifaiah xii, 6.

1 04 On the Nature and Ufejulnefi

my fpirit, opening my iinderftaading, and
guiding my judgment, that I might clearly
know what, v/hen, and how to fpeak in the
awful prefence of God, and before the
princes of his people, tvhofe words I obferv-
ed, were as goads, and as nails faftened by
the mafter of our aflemblies, which are
given from one fhepherd.

Very pertinent to what I am now upon Is
Ecclef. V, I, 2, 3. and what indeed ought to
take deep impreffion on all thofe concerned,
viz, *' Keep thy foot when thou goeft to the
*' houfe of God, and be more ready to
'* hear than to give the facrifice of fools:
'^ for they confider not that they do evil.
** Be not rafh with thy mouth, and let not
*^ thine heart be hafty to utter any thing
*^ before God: for God is in heaven, and
*' thou art upon earth, therefore let thy
"words be few. For a dream cometh
*' through a multitude of bufinefs, and a
** fool's voice is known by multitude of
*' words." It is plain from what is before
noted, and much more in holy writ, that
all the power and wifdom of man, till it be
fubjeded, fanftified, and properly influenc-
ed by a fupefnatural principle, is wholly
excluded from and fhut out of the church of
God. Although thofe abilities are adequate
cO, and fufEcient for, the things of a man,
viz. the concerns of this life; (for, as faith
our Lord, the children of this world are
ivifer in their generation than the children

of

tf Chrljiian DifclpUne. 105

of light; yet the things of God no man can
know, confequently cannot rightly a(fl in
them, but by his fpirit. This alfo in part
appears from what Elihu faith. Job xxxii.
7, 8, 9. *' I faid, days fliould fpeak, and
multitude of years ihould teach wifdom.
But there is a fpirit in man : and the in-
fpiration of the Almighty giveth them
underftanding. Great men are not al-
ways wife: neither do the aged under-
ftand judgment,"
Very great hath been, and ftill is, the lois
of man, for want of deeply underftanding
this important point. Giving a latitude to
human abilities in religion, and the concerns
thereof, hath opened the door wide for anti-
chrift to become almoft an univerfal mon-
arch. It is that by which he hath got great
footing amongft all the divilions of chriftian
profeifors ; ours in a forrowful manner witl>
refpedl to individuals, as well as others ; yet
a living body are preferved. Thefe, through
the divine blelTmg, prevent his taking pof-
feffion of the church, as he has done of
others. The eyes and cry of thefe are to
the Lord, whom they know to be their fuf-
ficiency ; and that unlefs he ordain falvation
as walls and bulwarks to keep our city, ill
vain are all human endeavours.

When I have coafidered the low, indiffer-
ent, languid ftate of thofe under our name
in many places, both in this and other na-
tions, chie.fly occalioued by an inordinate

P love

tc6 On the Nature and UJefulnefs

jove of the world, and the things thereof,-
my foul hath been deeply humbled in awful
proftration before him ; when I have beheld
his wonderful condefcenfion, in ftill Ihining
forth upon us, as from between the cheru-
bims of his glory, waiting to be gracious,
by turning again the captivity of many of
his Ifrael, and feekiag to rebuild her wafte
places, and thereby to revive her ancient
beauty. He is pleafed to continue unto us
fome judges as at the firft, and counfellors
as at the beginning, tho] but feiv in nmnber
when compared to the bulk. May the great
Lord of the harveft raife many more faith-
ful labourers, and fend them into his har-
veft, even fuch as are defcribed by the evan'-
gclical prophet Ifaiah! '^ The fiuners in Zion
are afraid, fearfulnefs hath furprifed the
hypocrites: who among us fhall dwell
with the devouring fire? whoramongftus
*' fliall dwell with everlafting burnings ? He
that walketh righteoufly, and fpeaketh
uprightly, he that defpifeth the gain of
*' oppreflions, that Ihaketh his hands from
*' holding of bribes, that ftoppeth his ears
** from hearing of blood, and fhutteth his^
'' eyes from feeing evil: he ihall dwell oa
**; high: his place of defence Ihall be tl^e
*^ mvmitions of rocks, bread Ihall be giyea
*' him, his waters Ihall be iurc.^'*

Oh! hov^ forrowful it is, in this and other
mtions, for the Lord's melfengers to view

the

■* GJiyp. xxxiii. 1^, 15, h'j.

i€

iC

iC

of Chrijlian Difcipline. I'o'f^

the great prevalence of unfaitlifulnefs in*
Jarge numbers, in moft branches of our
chriflian teftimony ! much lyhereof hath
been greatly owing to the laxnefs of difci-
pline. Thofe who fliould have been, above
ail other confiderations, waiting for frefh
and renewed ability from God to build his
houfe, have been moft of all endeavouring
to build themfelves and pofterity uncertain
houfes in earthly inheritances; living at eafe
ia their ceiled houfes, whilft the ark of the
teftimony of God hath been expofed.

Dreadful will the account be fuch will>
have to render, who have hid their Lord's
rj\oney in the earth, having wrapped it in a
uapfcin, viz. a decent form of religion. The
Lord hath opened eyes that fee them through
their fig-leaf covering in moft or all the ranks
of his people ; thoiigh it is much to be feared-
they have clofed their own eyes, except to-
wards the world. In that they may be clear
fighted, it being their kingdom. Some of
thefe may prefume from their long profeftion,
wherein perhivps they have taken care (as far
as appears to man's eye) to preferve a repu-
tation free from fpots or blemifhes ; and they
alfo hfiving a pretty large ftock of wealth,
ii> the getting whereof they may have not
only dried up the tenclernefs of religion in
themfelves, but alio have laid a foundation
for the ruin of their children, or thofe that
fucceed them in their pofreifiorls ; notwith-
i^andiug which, fome ftich may take upoi>

'io8 On the lecture and UJefuhie/s

them to be adlive members in the meetings
where they belong. Very lamentable indeed
are the ftates of meetings, managed by fuch
unfandlified fpirics. .The king of Sion is
baniflied from their covmcils; and the pre-
cious fons and daughters thereof are but as
fufFering witnejGTes for God, clothed as in
fackcloth; and the feed of God, which
fhould have dominion in all our meetings, is
deprefTed. I fuicerely wifh there were no
caufe for thefe clofe remarks ; a caution of
this kind may be necellary. This fpirit get-
ting in amongft us, in any part of the body
or fociety, cannot fail of laying wade;
therefore let all confider what fpirit rules in
them. Where fuch a fpirit prevails, it is
fiot the wife woman building the houfe, but
the foolifli woman pulling it down with her
own hand*

It is a mournful truth, that among the
many tlioufands of I.frael, there are but few,
in comparifon, w^ho really ftand quite up-
right, as pillars in God's houfe; who can-
not be at all warped by fear, intereft, favour,
or affection, but look beyond all iingly at
truth and righteoufnefs. Oh! what mean
cringing, ftooping, and temporizing, is to
be found in ibme! It is my fon, daughter,
near relation, or friend, that I am loth to
offend, left i fliould ibffer in my intereft or
reputation, or ftiali gam his or her ill will.
This Ipirit will never dwell on high, but
muft have its portion amoiigil the iearful.
'■• ■ ■ and

cf Cbrijlian Difcipliud, ic<^

^ad the unbelieving ; and unlefs fuch repent,
ihey will be ranked with thofe that deny
Chrifl before men. They may read their
portion, Luke xii. 9. True zeal and found
jiidgment is often rejected by this fort, whe-
ther it comes from individuals, or meetings ;
r^ay eyen by fome, when it is the mature re-
fult of the largeft body under the diredliou
of the beft wifdom, if they do not find it
agree with their uniknclified underftandings \
which would be ftrange if it Ihould, as it
comes from the fpirit of truth.

It may be further obferved, that thole
xyhofe principal view is only maintaining the
form or outward character in religion, feel
very little or no pain on account of the dif~
orderly praAices of their fellow- members ,
and therefore they can eaiiiy daub with un-
tempered mortar, and fmooth all over, cry-
ing peace, before judgment has laid hold of
the traiifgrefling part ; and all this done un--
d^r the fpecious pretence of charity and.
cUriftian tenderneis. Yet vvhen any in god-
ly zeal are conftrained to ihew the pernicious
confequenge of healing the .wounds of the
daughter of Sion deceitfully, fome fuch foon
difcover they are. too much itrangers to true
charity, by their oppolicioa to found juflg-
uient, and thofe exerciied therein, that the
vvound.s might be fearched to the bottom.
Here fomething of a perfecuting fpirit ap-
peal^, and the bitter leaven ot the Piiarifee
it difco\ crcd, fuiking at the life of xdi^ioii,

Bucj,

II o On the Nature and UfefulneJ^

But, agreeable to the ufual craft of antU"
chrift, they muft call a godly concern and
labour by a contrary name, or they could
not finite at it with any colour of reafon.
Such honed labourers have fometimes been
reprefented as enthufiafts, too hot in their
:zeal, diflurbers of the church's peace, &c.
When there is a peace in the church with
■wrong things, it is much better broke than
kept. I take it that it was in this fenfe our
Lord faid : " I came not to fend peace on,
*' earth, but a fword.*" It was a woeful
peace to Ifrael, when they became fo recon-
ciled to the inhabitants of the land, as to
fuffer them to dwell therein, contrary to the
exprefs command of God!

When the upright in heart cannot for
Sion's fake hold their peace, their fpirits be-
ing truly enlightened to fearch Jerufalem, it
is very dangerous for any to obftrucl, op-
pofe, or even to difcourage them in fuch a
godly undertaking. The voice of their Al-
mighty Helper is, " Touch not mine anoint-
** ed;" for he will certainly vindicate his
own caufe in their hands, and will recom-
pence any injury done to it, or them, as if
done to himfelf; fo that all had need to
know well what they do, and what fpirit
bears rule within them.

Some I have obferved very blind, fruitlefs,
and unfkilful, who are not quite upon the
fame bottom as thofe above-mentioned, but

wh^^
* Matt. X. 34.

of Chriftian Dtfcipline. iil

■who differ from them in the caufe of their
unfruitful fituation, which arifes chiefly
,from a grofs deception in themfelves, and
for want of abiding in that wherein they
could try the fpirit that prefents things to
their minds. Thefe have been moved and
kindled by a falfe fire, and a zeal not duly
tempered with that knowledge which comes
from God. This proves a lore wounding to
the caufe of truth, where it hath prevailed;
very hard to judge down, becaufe it is com-
monly very v/ife and right in its own eyes*
In concluding this head, I am free to exprefs
an ardt^it prayer, which hath filled mine
heart at times for ^ confiderable number of
years, that the Lord may be gracioully pleaf^
ed greatly to increafe the number of thofe
amongfl us, who are made willing to leave
all, arjd to follow the gentle leadings of his
fpirit, vs^hitherfoever he is pleaftd to lead
them; who prefer the welfare, peace, and
profperity of the city of God to their chiefs
eft joy; that truth and righteoufnefs may
be fo exahed in every part of the body, as
to make all the (inners in Sion afraid indeed :
for they cannot ftand'in judgment when the
Lord arifes in majefty among his faints, nor
in the congregations of the righteous ; that
fo for very Ihame there might be a cafting
their idols of filver, and their idols of gold,
to the moles and to the bats. Ifa. ii. 20.

The fubftance of what is before fignified,
is doubtlcfs, an I hath been, the fervent tra-
vail

I ! 2 On the Nature ^?/i Vftfulnefsy ^'t.

vail of many brethren and fifters, who are
deeply afFe(fled with the prefent lethargy
which prevails, yet are in the midft thereof
comforted in obferving great reviving of k
concern, in moft places, for ftirring np and
provoking one another to love and to good
works; particularly in promoting difcipline:
which if it profpers (as I believe it will)
truth and righteouinefs will prevail thereby,
and Sion will enlarge her borders, her cords
will be lengthened, and her flakes ftrengthen-
ed, and {he will yet break forth on the right
hand and on the left; her feed will inherit
places which are now defolate. Therefore
let the tr'U travellers for her profperity be
encouraged ; for I believe fome of them will
come to fee the fruits of their painful travail,
and be fatisfied. ' May all fuch keep their
habitations in a feeling fenfe of the Holy
Head, whether in fuffering or rejoicing,
profperity or adverfity! For, as faith the
apoftle, '' If we fuffer with Chrift, we fhall
" reign with him, or be glorified together."

FINIS,

.-.«

I