Wesley Corpus

“But more directly we answer: There are many reasons why there should be few, if any, indisputable examples. What inconveniences would this bring on the person himself, set as a mark for all to shoot at ! And how unprofitable would it be to gainsayers ‘For if they hear not Moses and the Prophets, Christ and his Apostles, “neither would they be persuaded though one rose from the dead.’ “Q. Are we not apt to have a secret distaste to any who say they are saved from all sin? “A. It is very possible we may, and that upon several grounds; partly from a concern for the good of souls, who may be hurt if these are not what they profess; partly from a kind of implicit envy at those who speak of higher attain ments than our own; and partly from our natural slowness and unreadiness of heart to believe the works of God. “Q. Why may we not continue in the joy of faith till we are perfected in love? “A. Why indeed? since holy grief does not quench this joy; since even while we are under the cross, while we deeply partake of the sufferings of Christ, we may rejoice with joy unspeakable.” From these extracts it undeniably appears, not only what was mine and my brother’s judgment, but what was the judgment of all the Preachers in connexion with us, in the years 1744, 45, 46 and 47. Nor do I remember that, in any one of these Conferences, we had one dissenting voice; but whatever doubts any one had when we met, they were all removed before we parted. 18. In the year 1749, my brother printed two volumes of “Hymns and Sacred Poems.” As I did not see these before they were published, there were some things in them which I did not approve of But I quite approved of the main of the hymns on this head; a few verses of which are subjoined: CoME, Lord, be manifested here, And all the devil's works destroy; Now, without sin, in me appear, And fill with everlasting joy: Thy beatific face display; Ihy presence is the perfect day. (Vol. I., p. 203.) Sw1FT to my rescue come, Thy own this moment seize; Gather my wand'ring spirit home, And keep in perfect peace.