A39229:259
A late and further manifestation of the progress of the gospel amongst the Indians…
A late and further manifestation of the progress of the gospel amongst the Indians in New-England declaring their constant love and zeal to the truth : with a readiness to give account of their faith and hope, as of their desires in church communion to be partakers of the ordinances of Christ : being a narrative of the examinations of the Indians, about their knowledge in religion, by the elders of the churches / related by Mr. John Eliot.A late and further manifestation of the progress of the gospel amongst the Indians in Nevv-England declaring their constant love and zeal to the truth : with a readiness to give accompt of their faith and hope, as of their desires in church communion to be partakers of the ordinances of Christ : being a narrative of the examinations of the Indians, about their knowledge in religion, by the elders of the churches / related by Mr. John Eliot.
London: printed by M. S., 1655
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
This great and solemn work of calling up these poor Indians unto that Gospel light and beauty of visible Church-estate, having ⟨p. 21⟩now passed through a second Trial: In the former whereof, of, they expressed what experience they had found of Gods grace in their hearts, turning them from dead works, to seek after the living God, and salvation in our Saviour Jesus Christ. In this second they have in some measure declared how far the Lord hath let in the light of the good knowledge of God into their souls, and what taste they have of the Principles of Religion, and doctrine of salvation. Now the Question remaineth, What shall we further do? And when shall they enjoy the Ordinances of Jesus Christ in Church-estate?
This great and solemne work of calling up these poor Indians unto that Gospel light and beauty of visible Church-estate, having ⟨p. 21⟩now passed through a second Tryall: In the former whereof, of, they expressed what experience they had found of Gods grace in their hearts, turning them from dead works, to seek after the living God, and salvation in our Saviour Jesus Christ. In this second they have in some measure declared how far the Lord hath let in the light of the good knowledge of God into their soules, and what tast they have of the Principles of Religion, and doctrine of salvation. Now the Question remaineth, What shall we further doe? And when shall they enjoy the Ordinances of Iesus Christ in Church-estate?
The work is very solemn, and the Question needeth a solemn Answer. It is a great matter to betrust those with the holy privileges of Gods house, upon which the name of Christ is so much called, who have so little knowledge and experience in the way; of Christ, so newly come out of that great depth of darkness, and wild course of life; in such danger of polluting and defiling the name of Christ among their barbarous friends and Country-men; and under so many doubts and jealousies of many people; and having not yet stood in the ways of Christ so long, as to give sufficient proof and experience of their steadfastness in their new begun profession. Being also the first Church gathered among them, it is like to be a pattern and president of after proceedings, even unto following Generations. Hence it is very needful that this proceeding of ours at first, be with all care and wariness guided, for the most effectual advancement of the holiness and honour of Jesus Christ among them.