The works of George Swinnock, M.A

²I wish that I may look upon a dying Bed, as a Fit Pulpit in which I may preach my Makers and Redeemers praise. The speeches of dying persons are often highly prized, as savouring of most sincerity, and least suspected of selfish ends. They who scorned my counsel, and rejected my advice in my health and strength, as fearing it proceeded rather from interest then simplicity of heart, will if they have the least grain of charity, believe me in earnest, and my words to be the language of my soul when I am dying, and entering into my eternal estate. The worst of men have some reverence and respect for dying Christians. What thrusting and crowding, even to the prejudice of their bodies, hath there often been to hear the speeches and last words of dying men. The vilest Malefactor, who is cut off by the Sword of justice, is permitted with patience to speak, and attended to with diligence at the Gallows. If enemies have some respect for dying Felons, and will hearken to them with meekness, what hopes may a dying ⟨p. 671⟩Saint have of advantaging the souls of his friends? O that I might greedily embrace such an opportunity of advantaging the interest and honour of my God, the service and good of my neighbours, and by my pious language, and gracious carriage at my latter end, make others in love with holiness, holy men, and the holy one of Israel! Sinners catch hold of every season to propagate their ungodly seed, and commend Satan's rotten wares to the men of the world; Why should not Saints be as vigilant as diligent for their God and Saviour? Lord, I know not in what manner, by what distemper it will please thee to call me to thy self. I beg if it may seem good in thy sight, that nothing may befall me on my dying bed, which may render me uncapable of commending thee, and thy ways, and worship to others. My cheerfulness in bearing thy will, and activeness to extol thy work and reward, may through thy blessing persuade Satan's drudges to forsake his slavery, and admit themselves thy servants. O that I might allure others to prepare for such a day, by lifting up my head with joy, when that day of redemption draweth nigh! The Apprentice makes merry when his time is expired, and he enjoyeth his freedom. The Bride hath a feast and music, when her Marriage-day is come. This life is my time of service, death sets me at liberty;

²I wish that I may look upon a dying Bed, as a Fit Pulpit in which I may preach my Makers and Redeemers praise. The speeches of dying persons are often highly prized, as savouring of most sincerity, and least suspected of selfish ends. They who scorned my counsel, and rejected my advice in my health and strength, as fearing it proceeded rather from interest then simplicity of heart, will if they have the least grain of charity, believe me in earnest, and my words to be the language of my soul when I am dying, and entering into my eternal estate. The worst of men have some reverence and respect for dying Christians. What thrusting and crowding, even to the prejudice of their bodies, hath there often been to hear the speeches and last words of dying men. The vilest Malefactour, who is cut off by the Sword of justice, is permitted with patience to speak, and attended to with diligence at the Gallows. If enemies have some respect for dying Felons, and will hearken to them with meekness, what hopes may a dying