THE

CHRISTIAN WITNESS,

AND

CHURCH MEMBERS MAGAZINE.

Theology.

THOUGHTS ON REVIVALS OF RELIGION.*

In fulfilment of the promise made at our last meeting, I have thrown together a few hints on the subject of Revivals of Religion; and in submitting them to you, I think it right to say, that this paper is not to be considered as a formal address, or a lengthened discussion of the subject to which it relates. It contains mere hints intended to guide our present conversation, in the hope of reaching some profitable result.

It seems to me appropriate, and it is certainly not unnecessary to begin with an attempt to define what is meant by a revival of religion. It may be regarded as consisting in these two things: first, in the increase and invigoration of piety in those who profess the Gospel; and next, in the multiplication of conversions from the ungodly. Generally speaking, these two things go together. It may, indeed, be occasionally found that a poor and feeble people, although distinguished by a vigorous and thriving piety, are, nevertheless, not exerting a beneficial effect, at least to any marked extent, on the population around them. There are few sinners converted through their instrumentality. They are not inactive, indeed, but there may be causes in operation, perhaps difficult to discover, which may limit their influence. Such cases, however, are rare exceptions. As the rule, it will be found, that where the progress of religion outwardly is small— where there are few brought under the awakening and converting power of the Gospel, there is a corresponding feeble

ness in the piety of those who are professedly disciples of Christ. And, on the other hand, where the religion of the Church is sound and growing, it will almost invariably be associated with a great and saving work on the consciences and souls of men without them. In this view of the case, we must include both these things; having, however, a special regard to the invigoration of piety in those who have, or profess to have it. Their spiritual improvement we should steadily contemplate; our grand object should be to revive them-to induce them to seek earnestly, until they obtain, an augmentation of quickening grace to stimulate and strengthen holy principles in their hearts. This is the thing first in importance, and first in order. Let us only secure this, and all else that is worth consideration will follow in due course. But without this, it is in vain to anticipate any great or encouraging success in the conversion of sinners. These views will, I presume, be conceded, and do not require any further confirmation at present.

They, however, very naturally suggest the inquiry, Are there any indications at present to warrant the conclusion that the members of our Churches generally need reviving? Are there any plain intimations that piety amongst us is in a low and languishing condition? there are, cannot, I fear, be denied. In alluding to such indications which occur to my own mind, I must satisfy myself with a simple statement of them, in the

That

* Being the substance of a Paper read at the Quarterly Meeting of Ministers and Deacons of the Congre

gational Churches in L- and its vicinity.

VOL. VIII.

B