The blessedness of the righteous discoursed from Psal. 17, 15 /The blessednesse of the righteous discoursed from Psal. 17, 15 /

But we must speak, whether men will hear, or forbear, though it concerns us to do it with fear and trembling. Oh how solemn a business is it to treat with souls! and how much to be dreaded least they miscarry through our imprudence, or neglect! I write with solicitude what shall become of these lines; with what effect they will be read (if they fall into such hands) by them, whom they most concern; Yea, and with some doubt, whether it were best to write on, or forbear. Sometimes one would incline to think it, a merciful omission• lest we add to the account, and torment of many at last, but sense of duty towards all; and hope of doing good to some must oversway. Considering therefore the state of such souls I am now dealing with, I apprehend there may be obstructions to the entertainment of the counsel here recommended, of two sorts; partly in their minds, partly in their hearts, something of appearing reason; but more of re•• perverse ⟨p. 270⟩will. That which I shall do in pursuance of it, will fall under two answerable heads, 1. A reply to certain doubts and objections wherein to meet with the former. 2. The proposal of some considerations, wherein to contend against the latter.

But we must speak, whether men will hear, or forbear, though it concerns us to do it with fear and trembling. Oh how solemn a business is it to treat with souls! and how much to be dreaded least they miscarry through our imprudence, or neglect! I write with sollicitude what shall become of these lines; with what effect they will be read (if they fall into such hands) by them, whom they most concern; Yea, and with some doubt, whether it were best to write on, or forbear. Sometimes one would incline to think it, a merciful omission• lest we adde to the account, and torment of many at last, but sense of duety towards all; and hope of doing good to some must oversway. Considering therefore the state of such souls I am now dealing with, I apprehend there may be obstructions to the entertainment of the counsell here recommended, of two sorts; partly in their minds, partly in their hearts, something of appearing reason; but more of re•• perverse ⟨p. 270⟩