PREFACE. The following composition was suggested by local circumstances. When commenced, it was designed exclusively for the narrow circle of the writer's congregation. Subsequent events bespoke the propriety of removing such a restriction and allowing any one to be a purchaser who might deem it worthy of a perusal. This alteration of purpose will account for the introduction of one or more topics, which tributary streams have served to give an apparent diversion from the original design. The saying, that truth fears nothing but concealment, is verified in the history of nonconformity. As notorious infidels have confessed their partial acquaintance with the scriptures, so many violent opponents to dissent are found criminally ignorant of its fundamental principles. It is therefore the dictate of wisdom to seek opportunities of telling them what are our real principles, and thus, having pre-occupied the mind with what is deemed scriptural truth, to notice the error of certain systems, by way of corollary. Should the following outlines of congregationalism obtain an introduction to any of those circles where oral appeal is precluded, and thereby misrepresentation be avoided, one object of the work will be gained. The writer has kept in view the interest of the rising generation; believing, that to fortify the minds of this class is a duty, rendered increasingly imperative by the aspect of the times. The undertaking will possibly, in some quarters, be ascribed to the spirit of partizanship. It is enough for the writer to reply that he disclaims all such feeling, and to add, that throughout the essay and narrative, he has sought to exemplify the spirit of the injunction, 'giving no offence in any thing.' Should any good accrue from this imperfect attempt to serve the cause of truth, to the great Head of the universal church, the praise shall be ascribed. |