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object is to vindicate the genuine work of the Spirit, on the one hand from the opposition of formalists, and on the other from perversions by enthusiasts. He first gives a "Narrative of Surprising Conversions," as the facts then occurred under the dispensation of the Spirit; and proceeds to show the discriminating marks or evidences that such a work is "a glorious work of God;" the obligations of all to rejoice in it and promote it; the danger of opposing such a work; characteristics of a true revival for which those laboring in it should not be censured; injurious errors which should be avoided; and what is to be done to promote such a work.

This is the standard treatise on the subject of revivals of religion, adapted to be permanently useful, both as a means of quickening the churches when in a state of spiritual declension, and guiding the laborers in the work of God where it is specially revived.

"Nowhere in the English language, or in any other language, even within the compass of many volumes, can be found so much heavenly wisdom and experience in the work of God. The book is one which ministers and private Christians may study with advantage. Nowhere, that we know of, do the excellent qualities of Edwards' own mind and heart, under the training, instruction, and sanctifying influences of the Holy Spirit, appear more conspicuous. Every page of the book is full of heavenly wisdom."

EDWARDS ON THE AFFECTIONS.

This treatise is considered by many, the best of President Edwards' productions, and is almost universally regarded as a great standard work on Christian experience,

and the evidence of saving conversion. It was wholly re-written by ELLERBY, who ascribed to it his own confirmed hope in Christ, from a belief that, by presenting the precise thoughts of the author in a less cumbrous and more modern style, and with considerable abridgment, it might obtain a wide additional circulation. "I am pleased," writes Rev. Seth Williston, "with this edition of so valuable a work, and hope it may be the means of promoting genuine religion. There is nothing more ruinous than false experiences."

The author first shows that true religion consists chiefly in the affections, or in other words, is a religion of the heart. He then lays down twelve marks of character or experience, which afford no decisive evidence either that the affections are, or are not, truly sanctified; and adds more fully twelve "distinguishing signs of truly gracious and holy affections." It would seem that no one, on a candid and prayerful study of this treatise, can reasonably mistake as to the question of his own acceptance with God. Printed 60,000.

VENN'S COMPLETE DUTY OF MAN.

This "System of Doctrinal and Practical Christianity," by Rev. Henry Venn, written about the year 1763, is a well-known standard work, presenting, with great richness, originality, and force of thought, the high themes of salvation by the cross, and showing the utter futility of any other system of morals. The existence in England of a work with nearly the same title, which gained a wide circulation, and vainly essayed to guide to "the whole duty of man" without duly honoring redemption as 6*

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the foundation of all his attainments or hopes, gave rise to the preparation of the present treatise, “which, as well as the evangelical preaching of its author, largely contributed to revive the then slumbering spirit of the Reformation;" and kindled a light which has been continued in the labors of Simeon, Newton, Scott, and others, and it may be hoped will never be extinguished. Beginning with the excellency of the Soul, the author treats of God, of Man, of the Law, of Faith in Christ, of the Holy Spirit, of Repentance, of the Christian Graces and Dispositions towards God and towards men, of Relative Duties, of Self-denial in the restraining of all unholy passions, of Prayer, of the Scriptures, and closes with Christian Joy, which is sought in vain from any other foundation than that is laid, even Christ and his saving benefits. The Committee cannot but hope that this work, which was read with deep interest by some of themselves when inquiring for the way of life, may be blessed to thousands in the various channels now providentially opened before this Society.

MASON'S SPIRITUAL TREASURY.

This work, which was written towards the close of the last century, consists of a Meditation for each Day in the year upon Texts of Scripture, selected from the morning and evening meditations of this devout author, each occupying a little more than one 12mo page. These meditations were แ humbly intended to establish the faith. promote the comfort, and influence the practice of the followers of the Lamb;" and none familiar with their contents will doubt their general adaptation to so high

and sacred an end. Without prolixity, or the introduction of irrelevant matter, the author condenses the spiritual and practical thoughts growing out of the inspired passage, furnishing the reader with materials for reflection on topics immediately connected with our eternal interests. Many, both clergymen and laymen, regard this work with "a strong and grateful attachment," as the means of guiding their own inquiries for salvation, and aiding them in the Christian life. It is believed that this volume, comprising a meditation for each day, chosen out of those prepared by the author for both morning and evening, will prove eminently a "devotional assistant," especially to the exercises of the closet and of family worship.

PIKE'S PERSUASIVES TO EARLY PIETY.

This work is written in a style of tender entreaty, while, in its solemn and moving appeals, it has been thought more to resemble the writings of Baxter than any other work written in the present age. It presents the fallen and guilty state of man; the nature of real religion; the delusive supports on which the soul is prone to rest; the love of God and the Lord Jesus Christ; the advantages and pleasantness of early piety; the happiness it produces at the close of life and in eternity; warnings against ingratitude to God and the attractions of the world; the hard way of transgressors, in the present and future life; with answers to the usual objections to early piety, and earnest appeals to make no delay in yielding the heart to God. It has been blessed to the salvation of many. Printed 65,000.

A clergyman reports that a young lady, by reading this work, "was deeply convinced of her guilt and danger, and found no rest till she was brought to believe in the blessed Saviour. She recommended it to all her young associates, and some of them became alarmed at their condition, and have expressed hope in Christ. I think it will be found in the day of judgment," he says, "that this one copy was a great blessing to these souls."

A lady in Philadelphia stated, that four members of her own family had been hopefully converted from sin to God, by reading this publication.

A respected clergyman in C― county, N. Y., stated that it was Pike's Persuasives that led him to Christ and to the ministry.

PIKE'S GUIDE TO YOUNG DISCIPLES.

A delightful work to accompany the author's "Persuasives to Early Piety:" presenting the perfections of God ; the work of Christ and of the Holy Spirit; the life of faith and prayer; Christian holiness, mortification of sin, humility, patience; the government of the temper, the thoughts, the lips, and conduct; recreations, choice of companions, family duties; the Sabbath, study of the Scriptures, the Lord's Supper, doing good, love to enemies, spiritual conflicts and sorrows in the Christian pilgrimage, and consolations and encouragements in life and in death. The author has been peculiarly happy in thus furnishing a compendium of Christian truth and duty, in a serious yet clear and attractive form, which has proved not only a cherished "Guide to Young Disciples," but has led many wandering souls from the darkness and unbelief of sin to God. Printed 65,000.

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