Wesley Corpus

The first congregation was large, and so was the second; but the third was far the largest, filling every corner of the House. And the power of God seemed to increase with the number of the people; insomuch that in the evening, while I was applying, “To me to live is 408 REv. J. Wesley’s [March, 1788. Christ, and to die is gain,” the glory of the Lord seemed to overshadow the congregation in an uncommon manner: And I trust the impression then made upon rich and poor will not soon wear off. Mon. 3.-I went on to Bristol, and having two or three quiet days, finished my sermon upon Conscience. On Tuesday I gave notice of my design to preach on Thursday evening, upon (what is now the general topic) Slavery. In consequence of this, on Thursday, the House from end to end was filled with high and low, rich and poor. I preached on that ancient prophecy, “God shall enlarge Japhet. And he shall dwell in the tents of Shem; and Canaan shall be his servant.” About the middle of the discourse, while there was on every side attention still as might, a vehement noise arose, none could tell why, and shot like lightning through the whole congregation. The terror and confusion were inexpressible. You might have imagined it was a city taken by storm. The people rushed upon each other with the utmost violence; the benches were broke in pieces; and nine-tenths of the congregation appeared to be struck with the same panic. In about six minutes the storm ceased, almost as suddenly as it rose; and, all being calm, I went on without the least interruption. It was the strangest incident of the kind I ever remember; and I believe none can account for it, without slopposing some preternatural influence. Satan fought, lest his kingdom should be delivered up. We set Friday apart as a day of fasting and prayer, that God would remember those poor outcasts of men; and (what seems impossible with men, considering the wealth and power of their oppressors) make away for them to escape, and break their chains in sunder. Fri. 7.--I went over to Kingswood School, and found every thing there in excellent order. Sunday, 9. I preached at the Room, morning and afternoon, (Mr.