Wesley Corpus

But they should consider, the laying the foundation skilfully, as it is of the greatest importance, so it is the masterpiece of the wisest builder. And let the wisest of us all try, whenever we please, we shall find, that to lay this ground-work rightly, to make the ignorant understand the grounds of religion, will put us to the trial of all our skill.” Perhaps in doing this it may be well, (1.) After a few loving words spoken to all in the house, to take each person singly into another room, where you may deal closely with him, about his sin, and misery, and duty. Set these home, or you lose all your labour. (At least, let none be present but those who are familiar with each other.) (2.) Hear what the children have learned by heart. (3) Choose some of the weightiest points, and try if they understand them. As, “Do you believe you have sin in you? What does sin deserve? What remedy has God provided for guilty, helpless sinners?” (4.) Often with the question suggest the answer. As, “What is repentance? Sorrow for sin, or a conviction that we are guilty, helpless sinners.” “What is faith? A divine convic tion of things not seen.” (5.) Where you perceive they do not understand the stress of your question, lead them into it by other questions. For instance, you ask, “How do you think your sins will be par doned?” They answer, “By repenting and amending my life.” You ask farther, “But will your amendment make satisfac tion for your past sins?” They will answer, “I hope so, or I know not what will.” One would think, these had no know ledge of Christ at all. And some have not. But others have ; and give such answers, only because they do not understand the scope of the question. Ask them farther, “Can you be saved without the death of Christ?” They immediately say, “No.” And if you ask, “What has he suffered for you?” they will say, “He shed his blood for us.” But many cannot express even what they have some conception of; no, not even when expressions are put into their mouths. With these you are to deal exceeding tenderly, lest they be discouraged.