Wesley Corpus

To Walter Churchly Date: LONDON, December 23, 1773. Source: The Letters of John Wesley (1773) Author: John Wesley --- MY DEAR BROTHER,--You and I love one another; therefore we speak freely. (1) 'They have thrown themselves on Providence.' Not at all. From a very low state most of them had thrown themselves into plenty and honor. (2) ' It is possible they may do good.' True; but it is probable they may do harm. They have everywhere done our Societies all the harm they could. (3) 'The place they now have is a cold place.' I see no good of their having any at Hay. The land is wide enough. (4) They have no inclination to peace. (5) 'Our neighbors will see our professions true.' I do not profess any coalition with Calvinism. I see the mischievousness of it more and more. (6) 'Their preaching would not lessen the number of our hearers.' Indeed it would if the people minded what they say. And besides, it would puzzle and perplex those that still hear us, and probably set many an one’s sword against his brother. (7) 'They do not intend Antinomianism.' But they preach it continually. (8) 'And our people will not hear Calvinists.' Indeed they will if they play with the fire. You forget my brother’s verses: What my soul does as hell-fire reject, A Pope--a Count--a leader of a sect. [Poetical Works of J. and C. Wesley, vi. 62]. I am of no sect, but the Church of England. If James Barry or Stephen Proctor [The preacher at Brecon] is faulty in the Article you mention, tell them of it, and I am persuaded they will mend. You will do well to remind them in particular of teaching the children and visiting the sick. I believe they will take it kindly.--I am Your affectionate brother.