N01446:293
A guide to Christ. Or, The way of directing souls that are under the…
A guide to Christ. Or, The way of directing souls that are under the work of conversion. Compiled for the help of young ministers: and may be serviceable to private Christians, who are enquiring the way to Zion. / By Solomon Stoddard, A.M. and Pastor of the church in Northampton. ; With an epistle prefixed, by the Reverend Dr. Increase Mather.
Boston: printed by J. Allen for N. Boone, 1714
Directions How to guide Souls through the Work of Conversion.
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.
II. If it be doubtful whether the man be in a Natural Condition, or Converted, as there may be some occasion to hope because of his profession, because of ⟨p. 91⟩his estimation among men; because of an orderly carriage, and yet occasion to fear, because there is no great evidence of Grace, either in his Conversation before, or discourse at present: Sometimes there is more grounds for hope, sometimes for fear. These three things may safely be spoken to him.
II. If it be doubtful whether the man be in a Natural Condition, or Converted, as there may be some occusion to hope because of his profession, because of ⟨p. 91⟩his estimation among men; because of an orderly carriage, and yet occasion to fear, because there is no great evidence of Grace, either in his Conversation before, or discourse at present: Sometimes there is more grounds for hope, sometimes for fear. These three things may safely be spoken to him.
1. The Doctrine of the Law and Gospel may be set before him. They may be somewhat explained and cleared up: It is fit men should be remembered of the Rule they are to be judged by. Many times when the Rule is clearly laid down. Conscience makes application, and witnesses to men how it is with them, Heb. 4.12. The Word of God is quick and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword, &c.
1. The Doctrine of the Law and Gospel may be set before him. They may be somewhat explained and cleared up: It is fit men should be remembred of the Rule they are to be judged by. Many times when the Rule is clearly laid down. Conscience makes application, and witnesses to men how it is with them, Heb. 4.12