TO BELIEVERS IN THE GOSPEL OF UNIVERSAL GRACE AND SALVATION. BY JOHN G. ADAMS. "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." James II. 26. BOSTON: PUBLISHED BY THOMAS WHITTEMORE, No. 37 CORNHILL. EV 4501 A3 cop 2 Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1840, by JOHN G. ADAMS, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the District of Massachusetts. CAMBRIDGE: FOLSOM, WELLS, AND THURSTON, PRINTERS TO THE UNIVERSITY. PREFACE. Is it a sectarian book? If such should be the honest inquiry in relation to this humble work, duty prompts us to say, that it was prepared, as its title indicates, for the special reading of those who believe in the Gospel of Universal Grace and Salvation. Yet it is confidently believed, that the true Christian heart, wherever it may be found, will not seriously object to its practical sentiments. Although men may differ in matters of faith, there is a pleasing agreement in the testimony of all Christians, on the subject of practical righteousness. While the author regrets, that he could not have presented, with more ability, the important subjects herein advanced, he deems no apology necessary for the appearance of a work like this. It is well known to the Universalist public, that for years past we have been in a state of doctrinal controversy; that we are still there; and that the main energies of our devoted leaders in Zion, are necessarily exerted in defence of "the a* faith which was once delivered unto the saints." Great revolutions are going on in the religious and moral world; and while mind meets mind in the conflict of opinions, it should not be forgotten, that there are thousands, who need not so much to be strengthened in theoretical as in practical faith; who have, by diligent inquiry, become acquainted with the arguments in favor of gospel truth, -but who need the practical application of that greatest argument of all, - "a well ordered life and conversation," to complete them in Christian discipleship. To such this book is presented; and while it is not expected, that the seeker after controversial logic, or the mere professor of religion, will be much entertained in its company, it is devoutly hoped, that to many an humble spirit, seeking to know and to do the will of God, it may prove a cheerful visitant, - a profitable companion. APRIL 1, 1840. J. G. A. CONTENTS. Controversy on Religion. - The Test. - Christianity; its supe- rior Claims. - Infidel Statement. - Words of Christ. - True and False Religion. - The Jewish and Christian compared. - Universal Spirit of Christianity. - Its Doctrines and Precepts. Belief in Jesus Christ. - Nature of true Faith. - Simplicity of the Christian Religion. - Good Works better than Abstract ness required. - Religion traced to the Divine Attributes. Duties growing out of a Knowledge of them. - Christianity Duty of Self-examination. - Its Nature. - Neglect of it among Christians. not to engross too much of our Attention. The Inquiry we should institute with our own Hearts. - Apostolic Testimony.- A Course of Questions proposed. - Language of Hannah More. How Self-examination should be carried on with Trust in God: with Sincerity: with Impartiality: with a Resolve to |