IN
TWO PARTS.
ADVERTISEMENT.
THE
Journal having been so much referred to in the Life and Diary, and
being originally a part of the Diary itself, this work would be very imperfect
without it. It was first printed not only in two parts, but with some variation
in the Titles, which are here subjoined. The First Part was,
“Mirabilia
Dei inter Indicos;
Or
the Rise and Progress of a remarkable Work of Grace
Amongst
a number of the Indians,
In
the Provinces of New Jersey and Pennsylvania;
Justly
represented in a JOURNAL kept by order of the Honourable Society (in Scotland)
for Propagating
Christian
Knowledge; with some General Remarks;
By
DAVID BRAINERD,
Minister
of the Gospel, and Missionary from the said Society:
Published
by the Reverend and worthy Correspondents of the said Society;
with
a Preface by them.”
The
Second Part was,
“Divine
Grace Displayed;
Or
the Continuance and Progress of a remarkable Work of Grace
Among
some of the Indians
Belonging
to the Provinces of New Jersey and Pennsylvania;
Justly
represented in a JOURNAL kept by order of the Honourable Society (in Scotland)
for
Propagating Christian Knowledge;
with
some General Remarks;
To
which is subjoined an Appendix, containing some account of sundry things,
especially of the Difficulties attending
the
Work of a Missionary among the Indians:
By
DAVID BRAINERD,
Minister
of the Gospel, and Missionary from the said Society:
Published
by the Reverend and worthy Correspondents of the said Society.”
PREFACE.
THE
design of this publication is to give God the glory of his distinguishing
grace, and gratify the pious curiosity of those who are waiting and praying
for that blessed time, when the Son of God, in a more extensive sense than
has yet been accomplished, shall receive “the heathen for his inheritance,
and the uttermost parts of the earth for a possession.”
Whenever
any of the guilty race of mankind are awakened to a just concern for their
eternal interest, are humbled at the footstool of a sovereign God, and
are persuaded and enabled to accept the offers of redeeming love, it must
always be acknowledged a wonderful work of divine grace, which demands
our thankful praises. But doubtless it is a more affecting evidence of
almighty power, a more illustrious display of sovereign mercy, when those
are enlightened with the knowledge of salvation, who have for many ages
dwelt in the grossest darkness and heathenism, and are brought to a cheerful
subjection to the government of our divine Redeemer, who from generation
to generation had remained the voluntary slaves of “the prince of darkness.”
This
is that delightful scene which will present itself to the reader’s view,
while he attentively peruses the following pages. Nothing certainly can
be more agreeable to a benevolent and religious mind, than to see those
that were sunk in the most degenerate state of human nature, at once, not
only renounce those barbarous customs they had been inured to from their
infancy, but surprisingly transformed into the character of real and devout
Christians.
This
mighty change was brought about by the plain and faithful preaching of
the gospel, attended with an uncommon effusion of the divine Spirit, under
the ministry of the Reverend David Brainerd, a Missionary employed by the
Honourable Society in Scotland, for propagating CHRISTIAN
KNOWLEDGE.
388
PREFACE.
And
surely it will administer abundant matter of praise and thanksgiving
to that honourable body, to find that their generous attempt to send the
gospel among the Indian nations upon the borders of New York, New Jersey,
and Pennsylvania, has met with such surprising success.
It
would perhaps have been more agreeable to the taste of politer readers,
if the following Journal had been cast into a different method, and formed
into one connected narrative. But the worthy author, amidst his
continued labours, had no time to spare for such an undertaking. Besides,
the pious reader will take a peculiar pleasure to see this work described
in its native simplicity, and the operations of the Spirit upon the minds
of these poor benighted pagans, laid down just in the method and order
in which they happened. This, it must be confessed, will occasion frequent
repetitions; but these, as they tend to give a fuller view of this amazing
dispensation of divine grace in its rise and progress, we trust, will be
easily forgiven.
When
we see such numbers of the most ignorant and barbarous of mankind, in the
space of a few months, “turned from darkness to light, and from the power
of sin and Satan unto God,” it gives us encouragement to wait and pray
for that blessed time, when our victorious Redeemer shall, in a more signal
manner than he has yet done, display the “banner of his cross,” march on
from “conquering to conquer,till
the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his
Christ.” Yea, we cannot but lift up our heads with joy, and hope that it
may be the dawn of that bright and illustrious day, when the SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
shall “arise and shine from one end of the earth to the other;” when, to
use the language of the inspired prophets, “the Gentiles shall come to
his light, and kings to the brightness of his rising;” in consequence of
which, “the wilderness and solitary places shall be glad, and the desert
rejoice and blossom as the rose.”
It
is doubtless the duty of all, in their different stations, and according
to their respective capacities, to use their utmost endeavours to bring
forward this promised, this desired day. There is a great want of schoolmasters
among these christianized Indians, to instruct their youth in the English
language, and the principles of the christian faith; for this
as yet, there is no certain provision made:* if any are inclined to contribute
to so good a design, we are persuaded they will do an acceptable service
to the “kingdom of the Redeemer.” And we earnestly desire the most indigent
to join, at least, in their wishes and prayers, that this work may
prosper more and more, till the “whole earth is filled with the
glory of the Lord.”
The
CORRESPONDENTS.
THE
RISE
AND PROGRESS
OF
A
REMARKABLE
WORK OF GRACE, &c.
PART
I.
FROM
A.D. 1745 JUNE 19TH TO NOV. 4TH, AT CROSSWEEKSUNG AND FORKS OF DELAWARE.
CROSSWEEKSUNG,
in New Jersey, June, 1745.
June
19. Having spent most of my time for more than a year past amongst
the Indians in the Forks of Delaware in Pennsylvania; and having in that
time made two journeys to Susquehannah river, far back in that province,
in order to treat with the Indians there, respecting Christianity; and
not having had any considerable appearance of special success in
either of those places, which damped my spirits, and was not a little discouraging
to me: upon hearing that there was a number of Indians in and about a place
called (by the Indians) Crossweeksung in New Jersey, near fourscore miles
south-eastward from the Forks of Delaware, I determined to make them a
visit, and see what might be done towards the christianizing of them; and
accordingly arrived among them this day.
I
found very few persons at the place I visited, and perceived the Indians
in these parts were very much scattered, there being not more than two
or three families in a place, and these small settlements six, ten, fifteen,
twenty, and thirty miles, and some more, from the place I was then at.
However, I preached to those few I found, who appeared well disposed, and
not inclined to object and cavil, as the Indians had frequently
done elsewhere.
When
I had concluded my discourse, I informed them (there being none but a few
women and children) that I would willingly visit them again the next day.
Whereupon they readily set out, and travelled ten or fifteen miles, in
order to give notice to some of their friends at that distance. These women,
like the woman of Samaria, seemed desirous that others might “see the man
that told them what they had done” in their lives past, and the misery
that attended their idolatrous ways.
June
20. Visited and preached to the Indians again as I proposed. Numbers more
were gathered at the invitations of their friends, who heard me the day
before. These also appeared as attentive, orderly, and well disposed as
the others. And none made any objection, as Indians in other places
have usually done.
June
22. Preached to the Indians again. Their number, which at first consisted
of about seven or eight persons, was now increased to near thirty.
There was not only a solemn attention among them, but some considerable
impressions, it was apparent, were made upon their minds by
*
In the observations intermixed with the diary, after the date June 18th
and Sept. 16th, 1747. it appears that some gentlemen from Boston took this
affair into their charitable consideration; partly in consequence of this
hint, and more especially from Mr. Brainerd’s application by letter.--W.
PART
I. A.D. 1745. JUNE TO NOVEMBER. 389
divine
truths. Some began to feel their misery and perishing state, and
appeared concerned for a deliverance from it.
Lord’s
day, June
23. Preached to the Indians, and spent the day with them.--Their number
still increased; and all with one consent seemed to rejoice in my coming
among them. Not a word of opposition was heard from any of them against
Christianity, although in times past they had been as opposite to any thing
of that nature, as any Indians whatsoever. And some of them not many months
before, were enraged with my interpreter, because he attempted
to teach them something of Christianity.
June
24. Preached to the Indians at their desire, and upon their own motion.
To see poor pagans desirous of hearing the gospel of Christ, animated me
to discourse to them, although I was now very weakly, and my spirits much
exhausted. They attended with the greatest seriousness and diligence; and
there was some concern for their souls’ salvation apparent among them.
June
27. Visited and preached to the Indians again. Their number now amounted
to about forty persons. Their solemnity and attention still continued;
and a considerable concern for their souls became very apparent among sundry
of them.
June
28. The Indians being now gathered, a considerable number of them, from
their several and distant habitations, requested me to preach twice
a day to them, being desirous to hear as much as they possibly could
while I was with them. I cheerfully complied with their motion, and could
not but admire the goodness of God, who, I was persuaded, had inclined
them thus to inquire after the way of salvation.
June
29. Preached again twice to the Indians. Saw, as I thought, the hand of
God very evidently, and in a manner somewhat remarkable, making provision
for their subsistence together, in order to their being instructed in divine
things. For this day and the day before, with only walking a little way
from the place of our daily meeting, they killed
three deer, which
were a seasonable supply for their wants, and without which, it seems,
they could not have subsisted together in order to attend the means of
grace.
Lord’s
day, June
30. Preached twice this day also. Observed yet more concern and affection
among the poor heathens than ever; so that they even constrained me to
tarry yet longer with them; although my constitution was exceedingly worn
out, and my health much impaired by my late fatigues and labours, and especially
by my late journey to Susquehannah in May last, in which lodged on the
ground for several weeks together.
July
1. Preached again twice to a very serious and attentive assembly of Indians,
they having now learned to attend the worship of God with christian
decency in all respects.--There were now between forty and fifty
persons of them present, old and young.--I spent some considerable time
in discoursing with them in a more private way, inquiring of them what
they remembered of the great truths that had been taught them from day
to day; and may justly say, it was amazing to see how they had received
and retained the instructions given them, and what a measure of
knowledge some of them had acquired in a few days.
July
2. Was obliged to leave these Indians at Crossweeksung, thinking it my
duty, as soon as health would admit, again to visit those at the Forks
of Delaware. When I came to take leave of them, and spoke something particularly
to each of them, they all earnestly inquired when I would come again, and
expressed a great desire of being further instructed. And of their own
accord agreed, that when I should come again, they would all meet and live
together during my continuance with them; and that they would do their
utmost endeavours to gather all the Indians in these parts that were yet
further remote. And when I parted, one told me with many tears, “She wished
God would change her heart:” another, that “she wanted to find Christ:”
and an old man that had been one of their chiefs, wept bitterly
with concern for his soul. I then promised them to return as speedily as
my health and business elsewhere would admit, and felt not a little concerned
at parting, lest the good impressions then apparent upon numbers of them,
might decline and wear off, when the means came to cease; and yet could
not but hope that he who, I trusted, had begun a good work among them,
and who I knew did not stand in need of means to carry it on, would maintain
and promote it. At the same time I must confess, that I had often seen
encouraging appearances among the Indians elsewhere prove wholly abortive;
and it appeared the favour would be so great, if God should now, after
I had passed through so considerable a series of almost fruitless labours
and fatigues, and after my rising hopes had been so often frustrated among
these poor pagans, give me any special success in my labours with
them. I could not believe, and scarce dared to hope, that the event would
be so happy, and scarce ever found myself more suspended between hope and
fear, in any affair, or at any time, than this.
This
encouraging disposition and readiness to receive instruction, now apparent
among these Indians, seems to have been the happy effect of the conviction
that one or two of them met with some time since at the Forks of Delaware,
who have since endeavoured to show their friends the evil of idolatry,
&c. And although the other Indians seemed but little to regard, but
rather to deride them, yet this, perhaps, has put them into a thinking
posture of mind, or at least, given them some thoughts about Christianity,
and excited in some of them a curiosity to hear, and so made way
for the present encouraging attention. An apprehension that this might
be the case here, has given me encouragement that God may in such
a manner bless the means I have used with Indians in other places, where
there is as yet no appearance of it. If so, may his name have the glory
of it; for I have learned by experience that he only can open the ear,
engage the attention, and incline the heart of poor benighted, prejudiced
pagans to receive instruction.
FORKS
OF DELAWARE, in Pennsylvania, July, 1745.
Lord’s
day, July
14. Discoursed to the Indians twice, several of whom appeared concerned,
and were, I have reason to think, in some measure convinced by the divine
Spirit of their sin and misery; so that they wept much the whole time of
divine service.--Afterwards discoursed to a number of white people then
present.
July
18. Preached to my people, who attended diligently, beyond what had been
common among these Indians: and some of them appeared concerned for their
souls.
Lord’s
day, July
21. Preached to the Indians first, then to a number of white people
present, and in the afternoon to the Indians again.--Divine truth seemed
to make very considerable impressions upon several of them, and caused
the tears to flow freely.--Afterwards I baptized my interpreter
and his wife, who were the first I baptized among the Indians.
They
are both persons of some experimental knowledge in religion; have
both been awakened to a solemn concern for their souls; have to appearance
been brought to a sense of their misery and undoneness in themselves;
have both appeared to be comforted with divine consolations; and it is
apparent both have passed a great, and I cannot but hope a saving,
change.
It
may perhaps be satisfactory and agreeable that I should give some brief
relation of the man’s exercise and experience since he has been with me,
especially seeing he is employed as my interpreter to others.--When
I first employed him in this business in the beginning of summer, 1744,
he was well fitted for his work in regard of his acquaintance with the
Indian and English language, as well as with the manners of both nations;
and in regard of his desire that the Indians should conform to the customs
and manners of the English, and especially to their manner of living. But
he seemed to have little or no impression of religion upon his mind, and
in that respect was very unfit for his work, being incapable of
understanding and communicating to others many things of importance; so
that I laboured under great disadvantages in addressing the Indians, for
want of his having an experimental, as well as more doctrinal,
acquaintance with divine truths; and, at times, my spirits sunk and were
much discouraged under this difficulty, especially when I observed that
divine
390
BRAINERD’S JOURNAL.
truths
made little or no impressions upon his mind for many weeks together.
He
indeed behaved soberly after I employed him, (although before he
had been a hard drinker,) and seemed honestly engaged as far as
he was capable in the performance of his work; and especially he appeared
very desirous that the Indians should renounce their heathenish notions
and practices, and conform to the customs of the christian world. But still
he seemed to have no concern about his own soul, till he had been
with me a considerable time.
Near
the latter end of July, 1744, I preached to an assembly of white people,
with more freedom and fervency than I could possibly address the Indians
with, without their having first attained a greater measure of doctrinal
knowledge. At this time he was present, and was somewhat awakened to a
concern for his soul; so that the next day he discoursed freely with me
about his spiritual concerns, and gave me an opportunity to use
further endeavours to fasten the impressions of his perishing state upon
his mind: and I could plainly perceive for some time after this, that he
addressed the Indians with more concern and fervency than
he had formerly done.
But
these impressions seemed quickly to decline, and he remained in a great
measure careless and secure, until some time late in the fall of
the year following, at which time he fell into a weak and languishing state
of body, and continued much disordered for several weeks together. At this
season divine truth took hold of him, and made deep impressions upon his
mind. He was brought under great concern for his soul, and his exercise
was not now transient and unsteady, but constant and abiding,
so that his mind was burdened from day to day; and it was now his great
inquiry, “What he should do to be saved?” His spiritual trouble prevailed,
till at length his sleep, in a measure, departed from him, and he had little
rest day or night; but walked about under a great pressure of mind, (for
he was still able to walk,) and appeared like another man to his
neighbours, who could not but observe his behaviour with wonder.
After
he had been some time under this exercise, while he was striving to obtain
mercy, he says, there seemed to be an impassable mountain before
him. He was pressing towards heaven, as he thought, but “his way was hedged
up with thorns, that he could not stir an inch further.” He looked this
way and that way, but could find no way at all. He thought, if he could
but make his way through these thorns and briers, and climb up the first
steep pitch of the mountain, that then there might be hope for him;
but no way or means could he find to accomplish this. Here he laboured
for a time, but all in vain; he saw it was impossible, he says,
for him ever to help himself through this insupportable difficulty. He
felt it signified nothing, “it signified just nothing at all for him to
strive and struggle any more.” And here, he says, he gave over striving,
and felt that it was a gone case with him, as to his own power,
and that all his attempts were, and for ever would be, vain and fruitless.
And yet was more calm and composed under this view of things, than he had
been while striving to help himself.
While
he was giving me this account of his exercise, I was not without fears
that what he related was but the working of his own imagination,
and not the effect of any divine illumination of mind. But before
I had time to discover my fears, he added, that at this time he felt himself
in a miserable and perishing condition; that he saw plainly what he had
been doing all his days, and that he had never done one good thing,
as he expressed it. He knew, he said, he was not guilty of some wicked
actions that he knew some others guilty of. He had not been used to steal,
quarrel, and murder; the latter of which vices are common among the Indians.
He likewise knew that he had done many things that were right; he had been
kind to his neighbours, &c. But still his cry was, “that he had never
done one good thing.” I knew, said he, that I had not been so bad as some
others in some things, and that I had done many things which folks call
good; but all this did me no good now, I saw that “all was bad,
and that I never had done one good thing;”--meaning that he had never done
any thing from a right principle, and with a right view,
though he had done many things that were materially good and right.
And now I thought, said he, that I must sink down to hell, that there was
no hope for me, “because I never could do any thing that was good;” and
if God let me alone never so long, and I should try never so much, still
I should do nothing but what is bad, &c.
This
further account of his exercise satisfied me that it was not the mere working
of his imagination, since he appeared so evidently to die to himself, and
to be divorced from a dependence upon his own righteousness, and good deeds,
which mankind in a fallen state are so much attached to, and inclined
to hope for salvation upon.
There
was one thing more in his view of things at this time that was very remarkable.
He not only saw, he says, what a miserable state he himself was
in, but he likewise saw the world around him, in general, were in
the same perishing circumstances, notwithstanding the profession
many of them made of Christianity, and the hope they entertained of obtaining
everlasting happiness. And this he saw clearly, “as if he was now awaked
out of sleep, or had a cloud taken from before his eyes.” He saw that the
life he had lived was the way to eternal death, that he was now on the
brink of endless misery: and when he looked round, he saw multitudes of
others who had lived the same life with himself, persons who had no more
goodness than he, and yet dreamed that they were safe enough, as he had
formerly done. He was fully persuaded by their conversation and behaviour,
that they had never felt their sin and misery, as he now felt his.
After
he had been for some time in this condition, sensible of the impossibility
of his helping himself by any thing he could do, or of being delivered
by any created arm, so that he “had given up all for lost,” as to
his own attempts, and was become more calm and composed; then, he says,
it was borne in upon his mind as if it had been audibly spoken to him,
“There is hope, there is hope.” Whereupon his soul seemed to rest and be
in some measure satisfied, though he had no considerable joy.
He
cannot here remember distinctly any views he had of Christ, or give any
clear account of his soul’s acceptance of him, which makes his experience
appear the more doubtful, and renders it less satisfactory to himself and
others, than it might be, if he could remember distinctly the apprehensions
and actings of his mind at this season.--But these exercises of soul were
attended and followed with a very great change in the man, so that
it might justly be said, he was become another man, if not a new
man. His conversation and deportment were much altered, and even the
careless world could not but admire what had befallen him to make so great
a change in his temper, discourse, and behaviour.--And especially there
was a surprising alteration in his public performances. He now addressed
the Indians with admirable fervency, and scarce knew when to leave
off: and sometimes when I had concluded my discourse, and was returning
homeward, he would tarry behind to repeat and inculcate what had been spoken.
His
change is abiding, and his life, so far as I know, unblemished
to this day, though it is now more than six months since he experienced
this change; in which space of time he has been as much exposed to strong
drink, as possible, in divers places where it has been moving free
as water; and yet has never, that I know of, discovered any hankering desire
after it.--He seems to have a very considerable experience of spiritual
exercise, and discourses feelingly of the conflicts and consolations
of a real Christian. His heart echoes to the soul-humbling doctrines
of grace, and he never appears better pleased than when he hears of the
absolute sovereignty of God, and the salvation of sinners in a way
of mere free grace. He has likewise of late had more satisfaction
respecting, his own state, has been much enlivened and assisted
in his work, so that he has been a great comfort to me.
And
upon a view and strict observation of his serious and savoury conversation,
his christian temper, and unblemished behaviour for so considerable a time,
as well as his experience I have given an account of, I think that I have
reason to hope that he is “created anew in Christ Jesus to good works.”--His
name is Moses Tinda Tauta-
PART
I. A.D. 1745. JUNE TO NOVEMBER. 391
my;
he is about fifty years of age, and is pretty well acquainted with the
pagan notions and customs of his countrymen, and so is the better able
now to expose them. He has, I am persuaded, already been, and I trust will
yet be, a blessing to the other Indians.
July
23. Preached to the Indians, but had few hearers: those who are constantly
at home seem of late to be under some serious impressions of a religious
nature.
July
26. Preached to my people, and afterwards baptized my interpreter’s
children.
Lord’s
day, July
28. Preached again, and perceived my people, at least some of them, more
thoughtful than ever about their souls’ concerns. I was told by some, that
their seeing my interpreter and others baptized, made them more
concerned than any thing they had ever seen or heard before. There was
indeed a considerable appearance of divine power amongst them when that
ordinance was administered. May that divine influence spread and increase
more abundantly!
July
30. Discoursed to a number of my people, and gave them some particular
advice and direction, being now about to leave them for the present, in
order to renew my visit to the Indians in New Jersey. They were very attentive
to my discourse, and earnestly desirous to know when I designed to return
to them again.
CROSSWEEKSUNG,
in New Jersey, August, 1745.
Aug.
3. I visited the Indians in these parts in June last, and tarried with
them some considerable time, preaching almost daily: at which season God
was pleased to pour upon them a spirit of awakening and concern for their
souls, and surprisingly to engage their attention to divine truths. I now
found them serious, and a number of them under deep concern for an interest
in Christ; their convictions of their sinful and perishing state having,
in my absence from them, been much promoted by the labours and endeavours
of the Reverend Mr. William Tennent, to whom I had advised them to apply
for direction, and whose house they frequented much while I was gone.--I
preached to them this day with some view to Rev. xxii. 17. “And whosoever
will, let him take the water of life freely:” though I could not pretend
to handle the subject methodically among them.
The
Lord, I am persuaded, enabled me, in a manner somewhat uncommon,
to set before them the Lord Jesus Christ as a kind and compassionate Saviour,
inviting distressed and perishing sinners to accept everlasting mercy.
And a surprising concern soon became apparent among them. There were about
twenty adult persons together, (many of the Indians at remote places not
having as yet had time to come since my return hither,) and not above two
that I could see with dry eyes. Some were much concerned, and discovered
vehement longings of soul after Christ, to save them from the misery they
felt and feared.
Lord’s
day, Aug.
4. Being invited by a neighbouring minister to assist in the administration
of the Lord’s supper, I complied with his request, and took the Indians
along with me; and not only those that were together the day before, but
many more that were coming to hear me; so that there were near fifty in
all, old and young.--They attended the several discourses of the day, and
some of them that could understand English, were much affected, and all
seemed to have their concern in some measure raised.
Now
a change in their manners began to appear very visible. In the evening
when they came to sup together, they would not taste a morsel till they
had sent to me to come and ask a blessing on their food: at which time
sundry of them wept, especially when I minded them how they had in times
past eat their feasts in honour to devils, and neglected
to thank God for them.
Aug.
5. After a sermon had been preached by another minister, I preached, and
concluded the public work of the solemnity from John vii. 37. “In the last
day,” &c. and in my discourse addressed the Indians in particular,
who sat by themselves in a part of the house; at which time one or two
of them were struck with deep concern, as they afterwards told me, who
had been little affected before: others had their concern increased to
a considerable degree. In the evening (the greater part of them being at
the house where I lodged) I discoursed to them, and found them universally
engaged about their souls’ concerns, inquiring “What they should do to
be saved?” And all their conversation among themselves turned upon religious
matters, in which they were much assisted by my interpreter, who was with
them day and night.
This
day there was one woman, who had been much concerned for her soul, ever
since she first heard me preach in June last, who obtained comfort, I trust,
solid and well grounded: she seemed to be filled with love to Christ, at
the same time behaved humbly and tenderly, and appeared afraid of nothing
so much as of grieving and offending him whom her soul loved.
Aug.
6. In the morning I discoursed to the Indians at the house where I lodged:
many of them were then much affected, and appeared surprisingly tender,
so that a few words about their souls’ concerns would cause the tears to
flow freely, and produce many sobs and groans.--
In
the afternoon, they being returned to the place where I had usually preached
amongst them, I again discoursed to them there. There were about fifty-five
persons in all, about forty that were capable of attending divine service
with understanding. I insisted upon 1 John iv. 10. “Herein is love,” &c.
They seemed eager of hearing; but there appeared nothing very remarkable,
except their attention, till near the close of my discourse; and then divine
truths were attended with a surprising influence, and produced a great
concern among them. There was scarce three in forty that
could refrain from tears and bitter cries. They all, as one, seemed in
an agony of soul to obtain an interest in Christ; and the more I discoursed
of the love and compassion of God in sending his Son to suffer for the
sins of men, and the more I invited them to come and partake of his love,
the more their distress was aggravated, because they felt themselves unable
to come.--It was surprising to see how their hearts seemed to be pierced
with the tender and melting invitations of the gospel, when there was not
a word of terror spoken to them.
There
were this day two persons that obtained relief and comfort, which (when
I came to discourse with them particularly) appeared solid, rational, and
scriptural. After I had inquired into the grounds of their comfort, and
said many things I thought proper to them, I asked them what they wanted
God to do further for them? They replied, “They wanted Christ should wipe
their hearts quite clean,” &c.--Surprising were now the doings of
the Lord, that I can say no less of this day (and I need say no more
of it) than that the arm of the Lord was powerfully and marvellously
revealed in it.
Aug.
7 Preached to the Indians from Isa. liii. 3.-10. There was a remarkable
influence attending the word, and great concern in the assembly; but scarce
equal to what appeared the day before, that is, not quite so universal.
However, most were much affected, and many in great distress for their
souls; and some few could neither go nor stand, but lay flat on the ground,
as if pierced at heart, crying incessantly for mercy. Several were newly
awakened, and it was remarkable, that as fast as they came from remote
places round about, the Spirit of God seemed to seize them with concern
for their souls.
After
public service was concluded, I found two persons more that had newly met
with comfort, of whom I had good hopes: and a third that I could not but
entertain some hopes of, whose case did not appear so clear as the other;
so that here were now six in all that had got some relief from their spiritual
distresses, and five whose experience appeared very clear and satisfactory.
And it is worthy or remark, that those who obtained comfort first, were
in general deeply affected with concern for their souls, when I preached
to them in June last.
Aug.
8. In the afternoon I preached to the Indians; their number was about sixty-five
persons, men, women, and children: I discoursed from Luke xiv. 16-23. and
was favoured with uncommon freedom in my discourse.--There was much
visible concern among them while I was discoursing publicly; but afterwards
when I spoke to one and another more particularly, whom I perceived under
392
BRAINERD’S JOURNAL.
much
concern, the power of God seemed to descend upon the assembly “like a rushing
mighty wind,” and with an astonishing energy bore down all before it.
I
stood amazed at the influence that seized the audience almost universally,
and could compare it to nothing more aptly than the irresistible force
of a mighty torrent or swelling deluge, that with its insupportable weight
and pressure bears down and sweeps before it whatever is in its way. Almost
all persons of all ages were bowed down with concern together, and scarce
one was able to withstand the shock of this surprising operation.
Old men and women who had been drunken wretches for many years, and some
little children not more than six or seven years of age, appeared in distress
for their souls, as well as persons of middle age. And it was apparent
these children (some of them at least) were not merely frighted
with seeing the general concern; but were made sensible of their danger,
the badness of their hearts, and their misery without Christ, as some of
them expressed it. The most stubborn hearts were now obliged to bow. A
principal man among the Indians, who before was most secure and self-righteous,
and thought his state good because he knew more than the generality of
the Indians had formerly done, and who with a great degree of confidence
the day before, told me “he had been a Christian more than ten years,”
was now brought under solemn concern for his soul, and wept bitterly. Another
man advanced in years, who had been a murderer, a powow,
(or conjurer,) and a notorious drunkard, was likewise brought now to cry
for mercy with many tears, and to complain much that he could be no more
concerned when he saw his danger so very great.
They
were almost universally praying and crying for mercy in every part of the
house, and many out of doors, and numbers could neither go nor stand. Their
concern was so great, each one for himself, that none seemed to take any
notice of those about them, but each prayed freely for himself. And, I
am led to think, they were to their own apprehension as much retired as
if they had been individually by themselves in the thickest desert; or,
I believe rather, that they thought nothing about any but themselves
and their own states, and so were every one praying apart, although
all together.
It
seemed to me there was now an exact fulfilment of that prophecy, Zech.
xii. 10, 11, 12. for there was now “a great mourning, like the mourning
of Hadadrimmon;”--and each seemed to “mourn apart.” Methought this had
a near resemblance to the day of God’s power mentioned Josh. x. 14. for
I must say, I never saw any day like it in all respects: it was
a day wherein I am persuaded the Lord did much to destroy the kingdom of
darkness among this people.
This
concern in general was most rational and just, those who had been awakened
any considerable time, complained more especially of the badness of their
hearts; and those newly awakened of the badness of their lives
and actions past; and all were afraid of the anger of God, and of
everlasting misery as the desert of their sins.--Some of the white
people, who came out of curiosity to “hear what this babbler would say”
to the poor ignorant Indians, were much awakened, and some appeared to
be wounded with a view of their perishing state.
Those
who had lately obtained relief, were filled with comfort at this season;
they appeared calm and composed, and seemed to rejoice in Christ Jesus;
and some of them took their distressed friends by the hand, telling them
of the goodness of Christ, and the comfort that is to be enjoyed in him,
and thence invited them to come and give up their hearts to him. And I
could observe some of them in the most honest and unaffected manner, (without
any design of being taken notice of,) lifting up their eyes to heaven,
as if crying for mercy, while they saw the distress of the poor souls around
them.
There
was one remarkable instance of awakening this day, that I cannot but take
particular notice of here. A young Indian woman, who I believe never knew
before she had a soul, nor ever thought of any such thing, hearing that
there was something strange among the Indians, came it seems to see what
was the matter. In her way to the Indians she called at my lodgings, and
when I told her I designed presently to preach to the Indians, laughed
and seemed to mock; but went however to them. I had not proceeded far in
my public discourse before she felt effectually that she had a soul;
and before I had concluded my discourse, was so convinced of her sin and
misery, and so distressed with concern for her soul’s salvation, that she
seemed like one pierced through with a dart, and cried out incessantly.
She could neither go nor stand, nor sit on her seat without being held
up. After public service was over, she lay flat on the ground praying earnestly,
and would take no notice of, nor give any answer to, any that spoke to
her. I hearkened to know what she said, and perceived the burden of her
prayer to be, Guttummaukalummeh wechaumeh kmeleh Ndah, i.e. “Have
mercy on me, and help me to give you my heart.” And thus she continued
praying incessantly for many hours together.--This was indeed a surprising
day of God’s power, and seemed enough to convince an atheist of the truth,
importance, and power of God’s word.
Aug.
9. Spent almost the whole day with the Indians, the former part of it in
discoursing to many of them privately, and especially to some who had lately
received comfort, and endeavouring to inquire into the grounds of it, as
well as to give them some proper instructions, cautions, and directions.
In
the afternoon discoursed to them publicly. There were now present about
seventy persons, old and young. I opened and applied the parable of the
sower, Matt. xiii. Was enabled to discourse with much plainness, and found
afterwards that this discourse was very instructive to them. There were
many tears among them while I was discoursing publicly, but no considerable
cry: yet some were much affected with a few words spoken from Matt. xi.
28. “Come unto me, all ye that labour,” &c. with which I concluded
my discourse. But while I was discoursing near night to two or three of
the awakened persons, a divine influence seemed to attend what was spoken
to them in a powerful manner, which caused the persons to cry out in anguish
of soul, although I spoke not a word of terror; but, on the contrary, set
before them the fulness and all-sufficiency of Christ’s merits, and his
willingness to save all that came to him; and thereupon pressed them to
come without delay.
The
cry of these was soon heard by others, who, though scattered before, immediately
gathered round. I then proceeded in the same strain of gospel-invitation,
till they were all melted into tears and cries, except two or three; and
seemed in the greatest distress to find and secure an interest in the great
Redeemer.--Some who had but little more than a ruffle made in their
passions the day before, seemed now to be deeply affected and wounded
at heart: and the concern in general appeared near as prevalent as it was
the day before. There was indeed a very great mourning among them,
and yet every one seemed to
mourn apart. For so great was their
concern, that almost every one was praying and crying for himself, as if
none had been near. Guttummaukalummeh,
guttummaukalummeh,
i.e. “Have mercy upon me, have mercy upon me;” was the common cry.
It
was very affecting to see the poor Indians, who the other day were hallooing
and yelling in their idolatrous feasts and drunken frolics,
now crying to God with such importunity for an interest in his dear Son!--Found
two or three persons, who, I had reason to hope, had taken comfort upon
good grounds since the evening before: and these, with others that had
obtained comfort, were together, and seemed to rejoice much that God was
carrying on his work with such power upon others.
Aug.
10. Rode to the Indians, and began to discourse more privately to those
who had obtained comfort and satisfaction; endeavouring to instruct, direct,
caution, and comfort them. But others being eager of hearing every word
that related to spiritual concerns, soon came together one after another;
and when I had discoursed to the young converts more than half an
hour, they seemed much melted with divine things, and earnestly desirous
to be with Christ. I told them of the godly soul’s perfect purity and full
enjoyment of Christ, immediately upon its separation from the body; and
that it would be for ever inconceivably more happy than they had
ever been for any
PART
I. A.D. 1745. JUNE TO NOVEMBER. 393
short
space of time, when Christ seemed near to them in prayer or other duties.
And that I might make way for speaking of the resurrection of the body,
and thence of the complete blessedness of the man, I said, But perhaps
some of you will say, I love my body as well as my soul, and I cannot bear
to think that my body should lie dead if my soul is happy. To which they
all cheerfully replied, Muttah, muttah, (before I had opportunity to prosecute
what I designed respecting the resurrection,) No, no. They did not regard
their bodies, if their souls might but be with Christ.--Then
they appeared “willing to be absent from the body that they might be present
with the Lord.”
When
I had spent some time with these, I turned to the other Indians, and spoke
to them from Luke xix. 10. “For the Son of man is come to seek,” &c.
I had not discoursed long before their concern rose to a great degree,
and the house was filled with cries and groans. And when I insisted on
the compassion and care of the Lord Jesus Christ for those that were
lost, who thought themselves undone, and could find no way of
escape, this melted them down the more, and aggravated their distress,
that they could not find and come to so kind a Saviour.
Sundry
persons who before had been but slightly awakened, were now deeply wounded
with a sense of their sin and misery. And one man in particular, who was
never before awakened, was now made to feel that “the word of the Lord
was quick and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword.” He seemed to
be pierced at heart with distress, and his concern appeared most rational
and scriptural: for he said, “all the wickedness of his past life was brought
fresh to his remembrance, and he saw all the vile actions he had done formerly
as if done but yesterday.”
Found
one that had newly received comfort, after pressing distress from day to
day. Could not but rejoice and admire divine goodness in what appeared
this day. There seems to be some good done by every discourse; some newly
awakened every day, and some comforted.--It was refreshing to observe the
conduct of those that had obtained comfort, while others were distressed
with fear and concern; that is, lifting up their hearts to God for them.
Lord’s
day, Aug.
11 Discoursed in the forenoon from the parable of the prodigal son,
Luke xv. Observed no such remarkable effect of the word upon the assembly
as in days past.--There were numbers of careless spectators of the white
people; some Quakers, and others.--In the afternoon I discoursed upon a
part of St. Peter’s sermon, Acts ii. and at the close of my discourse to
the Indians, made an address to the white people, and divine truths
seemed then to be attended with power both to English and Indians. Several
of the white heathen were awakened, and could not longer be idle
spectators, but found they had souls to save or lose as well as
the Indians; and a great concern spread through the whole assembly. So
that this also appeared to be a day of God’s power, especially towards
the conclusion of if, although the influence attending the word seemed
scarce so powerful now as in some days past.
The
number of the Indians, old and young, was now upwards of seventy, and one
or two were newly awakened this day, who never had appeared to be moved
with concern for their souls before.--Those who had obtained relief and
comfort, and had given hopeful evidences of having passed a saving change,
appeared humble and devout, and behaved in an agreeable and christian-like
manner. I was refreshed to see the tenderness of conscience manifest in
some of them, one instance of which I cannot but notice. Perceiving one
of them very sorrowful in the morning, I inquired into the cause of her
sorrow, and found the difficulty was, she had been angry with her child
the evening before, and was now exercised with fears, lest her anger had
been inordinate and sinful, which so grieved her, that she waked and began
to sob before day-light, and continued weeping for several hours together.
Aug.
14. Spent the day with the Indians. There was one of them who had some
time since put away his wife, (as is common among them,) and taken another
woman, and being now brought under some serious impressions, was much concerned
about that affair in particular, and seemed fully convinced of the wickedness
of that practice, and earnestly desirous to know what God would have him
do in his present circumstances. When the law of God respecting marriage
had been opened to them, and the cause of his leaving his wife inquired
into; and when it appeared she had given him no just occasion by unchastity
to desert her, and that she was willing to forgive his past misconduct,
and to live peaceably with him for the future, and that she moreover insisted
on it as her right to enjoy him; he was then told, that it was his
indispensable duty to renounce the woman he had last taken, and receive
the other who was his proper wife, and live peaceably with her during life.
With this he readily and cheerfully complied, and thereupon publicly
renounced the woman he had last taken, and publicly promised to
live with and be kind to his wife during life, she also promising the same
to him.--And here appeared a clear demonstration of the power of God’s
word upon their hearts. I suppose a few weeks before, the whole world could
not have persuaded this man to a compliance with christian rules in this
affair.
I
was not without fears, lest this proceeding might be like putting “new
wine into old bottles,” and that some might be prejudiced against Christianity,
when they saw the demands made by it. But the man being much concerned
about the matter, the determination of it could be deferred no longer,
and it seemed to have a good, rather than an ill, effect among the Indians,
who generally owned, that the laws of Christ were good and right respecting
the affairs of marriage.--In the afternoon I preached to them from the
apostle’s discourse to Cornelius, Acts x. 34, &c. There appeared some
affectionate concern among them, though not equal to what appeared in several
of the former days. They still attended and heard as for their lives, and
the Lord’s work seemed still to be promoted, and propagated among them.
Aug.
15. Preached from Luke iv. 16-21. “And he came to Nazareth,” &c. The
word was attended with power upon the hearts of the hearers. There was
much concern, many tears, and affecting cries among them, and some in a
special manner were deeply wounded and distressed for their souls. There
were some newly awakened who came but this week, and convictions seemed
to be promoted in others.--Those who had received comfort, were likewise
refreshed and strengthened, and the work of grace appeared to advance in
all respects. The passions of the congregation in general were not
so much moved, as in some days past, but their hearts seemed as
solemnly and deeply affected with divine truths as ever, at least in many
instances, although the concern did not seem to be so universal, and to
reach every individual in such a manner as it had appeared to do some days
before.
Aug.
16 Spent a considerable time in conversing privately with sundry of the
Indians. Found one that had got relief and comfort, after pressing concern,
and could not but hope, when I came to discourse particularly with her,
that her comfort was of the right kind.--In the afternoon, I preached to
them from John vi. 26-34. Toward the close of my discourse, divine truths
were attended with considerable power upon the audience, and more especially
after public service was over, when I particularly addressed sundry distressed
persons.
There
was a great concern for their souls spread pretty generally among them;
but especially there were two persons newly awakened to a sense of their
sin and misery, one of whom was lately come, and the other had all along
been very attentive, and desirous of being awakened, but could never before
have any lively view of her perishing state. But now her concern and spiritual
distress was such, that, I thought, I had never seen any more pressing.
Sundry old men were also in distress for their souls; so that they
could not refrain from weeping and crying out aloud, and their bitter groans
were the most convincing, as well as affecting, evidence of the reality
and depth of their inward anguish.--God is powerfully at work among them!
True and genuine convictions of sin are daily promoted in many instances,
and some are newly awakened from time to time, although some few, who felt
a commotion in their passions in days past, seem now to discover
that their
394
BRAINERD’S LIFE AND DIARY.
hearts
were never duly affected. I never saw the work of God appear so independent
of means as at this time. I discoursed to the people, and spoke what, I
suppose, had a proper tendency to promote convictions; but God’s manner
of working upon them appeared so entirely supernatural, and above
means, that I could scarce believe he used me as an instrument,
or what I spake as means of carrying on his work; for it seemed,
as I thought, to have no connexion with, nor dependence upon, means in
any respect. And although I could not but continue to use the means which
I thought proper for the promotion of the work, yet God seemed, as I apprehended,
to work entirely without them. I seemed to do nothing, and indeed to have
nothing to do, but to “stand still and see the salvation of God;” and found
myself obliged and delighted to say, “Not unto us,” not unto instruments
and means, “but to thy name be glory.” God appeared to work entirely alone,
and I saw no room to attribute any part of this work to any created arm.
Aug.
17. Spent much time in private conferences with the Indians. Found one
who had newly obtained relief and comfort, after a long season of spiritual
trouble and distress--he having been one of my hearers in the Forks of
Delaware for more than a year, and now followed me here under deep concern
for his soul--and had abundant reason to hope that his comfort was well
grounded, and truly divine.--Afterwards discoursed publicly from Acts viii.
29-39. and took occasion to treat concerning baptism, in order to
their being instructed and prepared to partake of that ordinance. They
were yet hungry and thirsty for the word of God, and appeared unwearied
in their attendance upon it.
Lord’s
day, Aug.
18. Preached in the forenoon to an assembly of white people, made
up of Presbyterians, Baptist, Quakers, c&. Afterwards preached to the
Indians from John vi. 35-40. “He that eateth my flesh,” &c. There was
considerable concern visible among them, though not equal to what has frequently
appeared of late.
Aug.
19. Preached from Isa. lv. 1. “Ho, every one that thirsteth,” &c. Divine
truths were attended with power upon those who had received comfort, and
others also. The former were sweetly melted and refreshed with divine invitations,
the latter much concerned for their souls, that they might obtain an interest
in these glorious gospel-provisions that were set before them. There were
numbers of poor impotent souls that waited at the pool for
healing, and the angel seemed, as at other times of late,
to trouble the waters; so that there was yet a most desirable and
comfortable prospect of the spiritual recovery of diseased, perishing sinners.
Aug.
23. Spent some time with the Indians in private discourse; afterwards preached
to them from John vi. 44-50. “No man can come to me, except,” &c. There
was, as has been usual, a great attention and some affection among them.
Several appeared deeply concerned for their souls, and could not but express
their inward anguish by tears and cries. But the amazing divine influence
that has been so powerfully among them in general, seems, at present, in
some degree abated, at least in regard of its universality, though
many who have got no special comfort, still retain deep impressions of
divine things.
Aug.
24. Spent the forenoon in discoursing to some of the Indians, in order
to their receiving the ordinance of baptism. When I had opened the
nature of the ordinance, the obligations attending it, the duty of devoting
ourselves to God in it, and the privilege of being in covenant with
him, sundry of them seemed to be filled with love to God, and delighted
with the thoughts of giving up themselves to him in that solemn and public
manner, melted and refreshed with the hopes of enjoying the blessed Redeemer.
Afterwards
I discoursed publicly from 1 Thess. iv. 13-17. “But I would not have you
be ignorant,” &c. There was a solemn attention, and some visible concern
and affection in the time of public service, which was afterwards increased
by some further exhortation given them to come to Christ, and give up their
hearts to him, that they might be fitted to “ascend up and meet him in
the air,” when he shall “descend with a shout, and the voice of the archangel.”
There
were several Indians newly come, who thought their state good, and themselves
happy, because they had sometimes lived with the white people under
gospel-light, had learned to read, were civil, &c. although they appeared
utter strangers to their own hearts, and altogether unacquainted with the
power of religion, as well as with the doctrines of grace. With
those I discoursed particularly after public worship, and was surprised
to see their self-righteous disposition, their strong attachment to the
covenant of works for salvation, and the high value they put upon their
supposed attainments.--Yet after much discourse, one appeared in a measure
convinced, that “by the deeds of the law no flesh living can be justified,”
and wept bitterly, inquiring “what he must do to be saved!”
This
was very comfortable to others, who had gained some experimental
acquaintance with their own hearts; for before they were grieved
with the conversation and conduct of these new comers, who boasted
of their knowledge, and thought well of themselves, but evidently discovered
to those that had any experience of divine truths, that they knew nothing
of their own hearts.
Lord’s
day, Aug.
25. Preached in the forenoon from Luke xv. 3-7. There being a multitude
of white people present, I made an address to them, at the
close of my discourse to the Indians: but could not so much as keep them
orderly; for scores of them kept walking and gazing about, and behaved
more indecently than any Indians I ever addressed; and a view of
their abusive conduct so sunk my spirits, that I could scarce go on with
my work.
In
the afternoon discoursed from Rev. iii. 20. at which time the Indians behaved
seriously, though many others were vain.--Afterwards baptized twenty-five
persons of the Indians, fifteen adults, and ten children.
Most of the adults I have comfortable reason to hope are renewed persons;
and there was not one of them but what I entertained some hopes of in that
respect, though the case of two or three of them appeared more doubtful.
After
the crowd of spectators was gone, I called the baptized persons together,
and discoursed to them in particular, at the same time inviting others
to attend. I minded them of the solemn obligations they were now under
to live to God, warned them of the evil and dreadful consequences of careless
living, especially after this public profession of Christianity; gave them
directions for their future conduct, and encouraged them to watchfulness
and devotion, by setting before them the comfort and happy conclusion
of a religious life.--This was a desirable and sweet season indeed! Their
hearts were engaged and cheerful in duty, and they rejoiced that they had
in a public and solemn manner dedicated themselves to God.--Love seemed
to reign among them! They took each other by the hand with tenderness and
affection, as if their hearts were knit together, while I was discoursing
to them: and all their deportment toward each other was such, that a serious
spectator might justly be excited to cry out with admiration, “Behold
how they love one another!” Sundry of the other Indians, at seeing and
hearing these things, were much affected, and wept bitterly, longing to
be partakers of the same joy and comfort that these discovered by their
very countenances as well as conduct.
Aug.
26. Preached to my people from John vi. 51-55. After I had discoursed some
time, I addressed those in particular who entertained hopes that they were
“passed from death to life.” Opened to them the persevering nature of those
consolations Christ gives his people, and which I trusted he had bestowed
upon some in that assembly; showed them that such have already the “beginnings
of eternal life,” (ver. 54.) and that their heaven shall speedily
be completed, &c.
I
no sooner began to discourse in this strain, but the dear Christians
in the congregation began to be melted with affection to, and desire of,
the enjoyment of Christ, and of a state of perfect purity. They wept affectionately,
and yet joyfully, and their tears and sobs discovered brokenness
of heart, and yet were attended with real comfort and sweetness;
so that this was a tender, affectionate, humble, delightful melting, and
appeared to be the genuine effect of a Spirit of adoption, and very
far from that spirit of
bondage that they not long since laboured
under. The influence seemed to spread from these through the whole assembly,
PART
I. A.D. 1745. JUNE TO NOVEMBER. 395
and
there quickly appeared a wonderful concern among them. Many who had not
yet found Christ as an all-sufficient Saviour, were surprisingly engaged
in seeking after him. It was indeed a lovely and very desirable assembly.
Their number was now about ninety-five persons, old and young, and
almost all affected either with joy in Christ Jesus, or with utmost
concern to obtain an interest in him.
Being
fully convinced it was now my duty to take a journey far back to the Indians
on Susquehannah river, (it being now a proper season of the year to find
them generally at home,) after having spent some hours in public and private
discourses with my people, I told them, that I must now leave them for
the present, and go to their brethren far remote, and preach to
them; that I wanted the Spirit of God should go with me, without whom nothing
could be done to any good purpose among the Indians--as they themselves
had opportunity to see, and observe, by the barrenness of our meetings
at some times, when there was much pains taken to affect and awaken sinners,
and yet to little or no purpose--and asked them, if they could not be willing
to spend the remainder of the day in prayer for me, that God would
go with me, and succeed my endeavours for the conversion of those poor
souls. They cheerfully complied with the motion, and soon after I left
them (the sun being then about an hour and a half high at night) they began,
and continued praying all night,) till break of day, or very near,
never mistrusting, they tell me, till they went out and viewed the stars,
and saw the morning-star a considerable height, that it was later
than common bed-time. Thus eager and unwearied were they in their devotions!
A remarkable night it was, attended, as my interpreter tells me, with a
powerful influence upon those who were yet under concern, as well as those
that had received comfort.
There
were, I trust, this day two distressed souls brought to the enjoyment of
solid comfort in him, in whom the weary find rest.--It was likewise
remarkable, that this day an old Indian, who has all his days been
an obstinate idolater, was brought to give up his rattles
(which they use for music in their idolatrous feasts and dances)
to the other Indians, who quickly destroyed them; and this without any
attempt of mine in the affair, I having said nothing to him about it; so
that it seemed it was nothing but just the power of God’s word, without
any particular application to
this sin, that produced this effect.
Thus God has begun, thus he has hitherto surprisingly carried on a work
of grace amongst these Indians. May the glory be ascribed to him, who is
the sole Author of it!
FORKS
OF DELAWARE, in Pennsylvania, Sept. 1745.
Lord’s
day, Sept.
1. Preached to the Indians here from Luke xiv. 16-23. The word appeared
to be attended with some power, and caused some tears in the assembly.--Afterwards
preached to a number of white people present, and observed many
of them in tears, and some who had formerly been as careless and unconcerned
about religion perhaps as the Indians.--Towards night discoursed to the
Indians again, and perceived a greater attention, and more visible concern
among them than has been usual in these parts.
Sept.
3. Preached to the Indians from Isa. liii. 3-6. “He is despised and rejected
of men,” &c. The divine presence seemed to be in the midst of the assembly,
and a considerable concern spread amongst them. Sundry persons seemed to
be awakened, amongst whom were two stupid creatures that I could scarce
ever before keep awake while I was discoursing to them. Could not but rejoice
at this appearance of things, although at the same time I could not but
fear, lest the concern they at present manifested, might prove like
a morning cloud, as something of that nature had formerly done in these
parts.
Sept.
5. Discoursed to the Indians from the parable of the sower, afterwards
conversed particularly with sundry persons, which occasioned them to weep,
and even cry out in an affecting manner, and seized others with surprise
and concern; and I doubt not but that a divine power accompanied what was
then spoken. Sundry of these persons had been with me to Crossweeksung,
and had there seen, and some of them, I trust, felt the power of God’s
word in an effectual and saving manner. I asked one of them, who
had obtained comfort, and given hopeful evidences of being truly religious,
Why he now cried? He replied, “When he thought how Christ was slain like
a lamb, and spilt his blood for sinners, he could not help crying, when
he was all alone:” and thereupon burst out into tears and cries again.
I then asked his wife, who had likewise been abundantly comforted, wherefore
she cried? She answered, “She was grieved that the Indians here would not
come to Christ, as well as those at Crossweeksung.” I asked her if she
found a heart to pray for them, and whether Christ had seemed to be near
to her of late in prayer, as in time past? (which is my usual method of
expressing a sense of the divine presence.) She replied, “Yes, he had been
near to her; and that at some times when she had been praying alone, her
heart loved to pray so, that she could not bear to leave the place, but
wanted to stay and pray longer.”
Sept.
7. Preached to the Indians from John vi. 35-39. There was not so much appearance
of concern among them as at several other times of late; yet they appeared
serious and attentive.
Lord’s
day, Sept.
8. Discoursed to the Indians in the forenoon from John xii. 44-50. in the
afternoon from Acts ii. 36-39. The word of God at this time seemed to fall
with
weight and influence upon them. There were but few present,
but most that were, were in tears, and sundry cried out under distressing
concern for their souls.
There
was one man considerably awakened, who never before discovered any concern
for his soul. There appeared a remarkable work of the divine Spirit among
them, almost generally, not unlike what has been of late at Crossweeksung.
It seemed as if the divine influence had spread from thence to this place;
although something of it appeared here in the awakening of my interpreter,
his wife, and some few others.
Sundry
of the careless white people now present were awakened, (or at least
startled,) seeing the power of God so prevalent among the Indians.
I then made a particular address to them, which seemed to make some impression
upon them, and excite some affection in them.
There
are sundry Indians in these parts who have always refused to hear me preach,
and have been enraged against those that have attended my preaching. But
of late they are more bitter than ever, scoffing at Christianity, and sometimes
asking my hearers, “How often they have cried?” and “Whether they have
not now cried enough to do the turn?” &c. So that they have already
“trial of cruel mockings.”
Sept.
9. Left the Indians in the Forks of Delaware, and set out on a journey
towards Susquehannah river, directing my course towards the Indian town
more than a hundred and twenty miles west-ward from the Forks. Travelled
about fifteen miles, and there lodged.
Sept.
13. After having lodged out three nights, arrived at the Indian town I
aimed at on Susquehannah, called Shaumoking, (one of the places, and the
largest of them, that I visited in May last,) and was kindly received and
entertained by the Indians: but had little satisfaction by reason of the
heathenish dance and revel they then held in the house where I was obliged
to lodge, which I could not suppress, though I often entreated them to
desist, for the sake of one of their own friends who was then sick in the
house, and whose disorder was much aggravated by the noise.--Alas! how
destitute of natural affection are these poor uncultivated pagans!
although they seem somewhat kind in their own way. Of a truth, “the dark
corners of the earth are full of the habitations of cruelty.”
This
town (as I observed in my Journal of May last) lies partly on the east
side of the river, partly on the west, and partly on a large island in
it, and contains upwards of fifty houses, and they tell me, near three
hundred persons, though I never saw much more then half that number in
it; but of three different tribes of Indians, speaking three languages
wholly unintelligible to each other. About one half of its inhabitants
are Delawares, the others called Senakes, and Tutelas. The Indians of this
place are counted the most drunken, mischievous, and ruffianly
396
BRAINERD’S JOURNAL.
fellows
of any in these parts: and Satan seems to have his seat in
this town in an eminent manner.
Sept.
14. Visited the Delaware king, (who was supposed to be at the point of
death when I was here in May last, but was now recovered,) and discoursed
with him and others respecting Christianity, and spent the afternoon with
them, and had more encouragement than I expected. The king appeared
kindly disposed, and willing to be instructed: this gave me some encouragement
that God would open an effectual door for my preaching the gospel
here, and set up his kingdom in this place. Which was a support and refreshment
to me in the wilderness, and rendered my solitary circumstances comfortable
and pleasant.
Lord’s
day, Sept.
15. Visited the chief of the Delawares again; was kindly received
by him, and discoursed to the Indians in the afternoon. Still entertained
hopes that God would open their hearts to receive the gospel, though many
of them in the place were so drunk from day to day, that I could get no
opportunity to speak to them. Towards night discoursed with one that understood
the languages of the Six Nations, (as they are usually called,) who discovered
an inclination to hearken to Christianity; which gave me some hopes that
the gospel might hereafter be sent to those nations far remote.
Sept.
16. Spent the forenoon with the Indians, endeavouring to instruct them
from house to house, and to engage them, as far as I could, to be friendly
to Christianity. Towards night went to one part of the town where they
were sober, and got together near fifty persons of them, and discoursed
to them, having first obtained the king’s cheerful consent.--There
was a surprising attention among them, and they manifested a considerable
desire of being further instructed. There was also one or two that seemed
to be touched with some concern for their souls, who appeared well pleased
with some conversation in private, after I had concluded my public discourse
to them.
My
spirits were much refreshed with this appearance of things, and I could
not but return with my interpreter (having no other companion in
this journey) to my poor hard lodgings, rejoicing in hopes that God designed
to set up his kingdom here, where Satan now reigns in the most eminent
manner; and found uncommon freedom in addressing the throne of grace for
the accomplishment of so great and glorious a work.
Sept.
17. Spent the forenoon in visiting and discoursing to the Indians. About
noon left Shaumoking, (most of the Indians going out this day on their
hunting design,) and travelled down the river south-westward.
Sept.
19. Visited an Indian town called Juncauta, situate on an island
in Susquehannah. Was much discouraged with the temper and behaviour of
the Indians here, although they appeared friendly when I was with them
the last spring, and then gave me encouragement to come and see them again.
But they now seemed resolved to retain their pagan notions, and persist
in their idolatrous practices.
Sept.
20. Visited the Indians again at Juncauta island, and found them almost
universally very busy in making preparations for a great sacrifice
and dance. Had no opportunity to get them together in order to discourse
with them about Christianity, by reason of their being so much engaged
about their sacrifice. My spirits were much sunk with a prospect
so very discouraging, and especially seeing I had now no interpreter but
a pagan, who was as much attached to idolatry as any of them; (my
own interpreter having left me the day before, being obliged to attend
upon some important business elsewhere, and knowing that he could neither
speak nor understand the language of these Indians;) so that I was
under the greatest disadvantages imaginable. However, I attempted to discourse
privately with some of them, but without any appearance of success: notwithstanding,
I still tarried with them.
In
the evening they met together, near a hundred of them, and danced round
a large fire, having prepared ten fat deer for the sacrifice. The
fat of whose inwards they burnt in the fire while they were dancing, and
sometimes raised the flame to a prodigious height, at the same time yelling
and shouting in such a manner, that they might easily have been heard two
miles or more.--They continued their sacred dance all night, or
near the matter, after which they ate the flesh of the sacrifice,
and so retired each one to his lodging.
I
enjoyed little satisfaction this night, being entirely alone on the island,
(as to any christian company,) and in the midst of this idolatrous
revel; and having walked to and fro till body and mind were pained and
much oppressed, I at length crept into a little crib made for corn, and
there slept on the poles.
Lord’s
day, Sept.
21. Spent the day with the Indians on the island. As soon as they were
well up in the morning, I attempted to instruct them, and laboured for
that purpose to get them together, but quickly found they had something
else to do; for near noon they gathered together all their powows,
(or conjurers,) and set about half a dozen of them to playing their juggling
tricks, and acting their frantic distracted postures, in order to find
out why they were then so sickly upon the island, numbers of them being
at that time disordered with a fever, and bloody flux. In
this exercise they were engaged for several hours, making all the wild,
ridiculous, and distracted motions imaginable; sometimes singing; sometimes
howling; sometimes extending their hands to the utmost stretch, spreading
all their fingers; and they seemed to push with them, as if they designed
to fright something away, or at least keep it off at arm’s-end; sometimes
stroking their faces with their hands, then spurting water as fine as mist;
sometimes sitting flat on the earth, then bowing down their faces to the
ground; wringing their sides, as if in pain and anguish; twisting their
faces, turning up their eyes, grunting, puffing, &c.
Their
monstrous actions tended to excite ideas of horror, and seemed to have
something in them, as I thought, peculiarly suited to raise the devil,
if he could be raised by any thing odd, ridiculous, and frightful.
Some of them, I could observe, were much more fervent and devout in the
business than others, and seemed to chant, peep, and mutter
with a great degree of warmth and vigour, as if determined to awaken and
engage the powers below. I sat at a small distance, not more than thirty
feet from them, (though undiscovered,) with my Bible in my hand, resolving,
if possible, to spoil their sport, and prevent their receiving any answers
from the infernal world, and there viewed the whole scene. They
continued their hideous charms and incantations for more than three hours,
until they had all wearied themselves out, although they had in that space
of time taken sundry intervals of rest; and at length broke up, I apprehended,
without receiving any answer at all.
After
they had done powowing, I attempted to discourse with them about Christianity;
but they soon scattered, and gave me no opportunity for any thing of that
nature. A view of these things, while I was entirely alone in the wilderness,
destitute of the society of any one that so much as “named the name of
Christ,” greatly sunk my spirits, gave me the most gloomy turn of mind
imaginable, almost stripped me of all resolution and hope respecting further
attempts for propagating the gospel, and converting the pagans, and rendered
this the most burdensome and disagreeable sabbath that ever I saw. But
nothing, I can truly say, sunk and distressed me like the loss of my hope
respecting their conversion. This concern appeared so great, and
seemed to be so much my own, that I seemed to have nothing to do
on earth if this failed. A prospect of the greatest success in the
saving conversion of souls under gospel-light, would have done little
or nothing towards compensating for the loss of my hope in this respect;
and my spirits now were so damped and depressed, that I had no heart nor
power to make any further attempts among them for that purpose, and could
not possibly recover my hope, resolution, and courage, by the utmost of
my endeavours.
The
Indians of this island can many of them understand the English language
considerably well, having formerly lived in some part of Maryland among
or near the white people, but are very vicious, drunken, and profane, although
not so savage as those who have less acquaintance with the English.
Their customs in divers respects differ from those of other Indians upon
this river. They do not bury their dead in a common form, but let their
flesh consume
PART
I. A.D. 1746. JUNE TO NOVEMBER. 397
above-ground
in close cribs made for that purpose; and at the end of a year, or sometimes
a longer space of time, they take the bones, when the flesh is all consumed,
and wash and scrape them, and afterwards bury them with some ceremony.--Their
method of charming or conjuring over the sick, seems somewhat different
from that of other Indians, though for substance the same: and the whole
of it, among these and others, perhaps is an imitation of what seems, by
Naaman’s expression, 2 Kings v. 11. to have been the custom of the ancient
heathens. For it seems chiefly to consist in their “striking their hands
over the diseased,” repeatedly stroking them, “and calling their gods,”
excepting the spurting of water like a mist, and some other frantic ceremonies,
common to the other conjurations I have already mentioned.
When
I was in these parts in May last, I had an opportunity of learning many
of the notions and customs of the Indians, as well as of observing many
of their practices. I then travelled more than a hundred and thirty miles
upon the river above the English settlements; and had in that journey a
view of some persons of seven or eight distinct tribes, speaking
so many different languages. But of all the sights I ever saw among them,
or indeed any where else, none appeared so frightful, or so near akin to
what is usually imagined of infernal powers--none ever excited such
images of terror in my mind--as the appearance of one who was a devout
and zealous reformer, or rather restorer of what he supposed was the ancient
religion of the Indians.--He made his appearance in his pontifical garb,
which was a coat of bears’ skins, dressed with the hair on, and
hanging down to his toes, a pair of bear-skin stockings, and a great wooden
face, painted the one half black, and the other tawny, about the colour
of an Indian’s skin, with an extravagant mouth, cut very much awry; the
face fastened to a bear-skin cap, which was drawn over his head. He advanced
toward me with the instrument in his hand that he used for music in his
idolatrous worship, which was a dry tortoise-shell, with
some corn in it, and the neck of it drawn on to a piece of wood, which
made a very convenient handle. As he came forward, he beat his tune with
the rattle, and danced with all his might, but did not suffer any
part of his body, not so much as his fingers, to be seen: and no man would
have guessed by his appearance and actions, that he could have been a human
creature, if they had not had some intimation of it otherwise. When he
came near me, I could not but shrink away from him, although it was then
noonday, and I knew who it was, his appearance and gestures were so prodigiously
frightful. He had a house consecrated to religious uses, with divers images
cut out upon the several parts of it; I went in and found the ground beat
almost as hard as rock with their frequent dancing in it.--I discoursed
with him about Christianity, and some of my discourse he seemed to like,
but some of it he disliked entirely. He told me that God had taught him
his religion, and that he never would turn from it, but wanted to find
some that would join heartily with him in it; for the Indians, he said,
were grown very degenerate and corrupt. He had thoughts, he said, of leaving
all his friends, and travelling abroad, in order to find some that would
join with him; for he believed God had some good people somewhere that
felt as he did. He had not always, he said, felt as he now did, but had
formerly been like the rest of the Indians, until about four or
five years before that time: then he said his heart was very much distressed,
so that he could not live among the Indians, but got away into the woods,
and lived alone for some months. At length, he says, God comforted his
heart, and showed him what he should do; and since that time he had known
God and tried to serve him; and loved all men, be they who they would,
so as he never did before.--He treated me with uncommon courtesy, and seemed
to be hearty in it.--And I was told by the Indians, that he opposed their
drinking strong liquor with all his power; and if at any time he could
not dissuade them from it, by all he could say, he would leave them and
go crying into the woods. It was manifest he had a set of religious notions
that he had looked into for himself, and not taken for
granted
upon bare tradition; and he relished or disrelished whatever was spoken
of a religious nature according as it either agreed or disagreed with his
standard. And while I was discoursing he would sometimes say, “Now
that I like: so God has taught me,” &c. And some of his sentiments
seemed very just. Yet he utterly denied the being of a devil, and
declared there was no such a creature known among the Indians of old times,
whose religion he supposed he was attempting to revive. He likewise told
me that departed souls all went south-ward, and that the difference between
the good and bad was this, that the former were admitted into a
beautiful town with spiritual walls, or walls agreeable to the nature
of souls; and that the latter would for ever hover round those walls,
and in vain attempt to get in. He seemed to be sincere, honest, and conscientious
in his own way, and according to his own religious notions, which
was more than I ever saw in any other pagan. I perceived he was looked
upon and derided amongst most of the Indians as a precise zealot,
that made a needless noise about religious matters; but I must say, there
was something in his temper and disposition that looked more like true
religion than any thing I ever observed amongst other heathens.
But,
alas! how deplorable is the state of the Indians upon this river! The brief
representation I have here given of their notions and manners, is sufficient
to show that they are “led captive by Satan at his will,” in the most eminent
manner: and, methinks, might likewise be sufficient to excite the compassion,
and engage the prayers, of pious souls for these their fellow-men, who
sit in “the regions of the shadow of death.”
Sept.
22. Made some further attempts to instruct and christianize the Indians
on this island, but all to no purpose. They live so near the white people,
that they are always in the way of strong liquor, as well as the ill examples
of nominal Christians; which renders it so unspeakably difficult
to treat with them about Christianity.
FORKS
OF DELAWARE, October, 1745.
Oct.
1. Discoursed to the Indians here, and spent some time in private conferences
with them about their souls’ concerns, and afterwards invited them to accompany,
or if not, to follow, me down to Crossweeksung, as soon as their
conveniency would admit; which invitation sundry of them cheerfully accepted.
CROSSWEEKSUNG,
in New Jersey, October, 1745.
Preached
to my people from John xiv. 1-6. The divine presence seemed to be in the
assembly. Numbers were affected with divine truths, and it was a season
of comfort to some in particular.--O what a difference is there between
these and the Indians I had lately treated with upon Susquehannah! To be
with those seemed like being banished from God, and all his people;
to be with these, like being admitted into his family, and to the
enjoyment of his divine presence! How great is the change lately made upon
numbers of these Indians, who not many months ago were as thoughtless and
averse to Christianity as those upon Susquehannah! and how astonishing
is that grace which has made this change!
Lord’s
day, Oct.
6. Preached in the forenoon from John x. 7-11. There was a considerable
melting among my people; the dear young Christians were refreshed, comforted,
and strengthened, and one or two persons newly awakened.--In the afternoon
I discoursed on the story of the jailer, Acts xvi. and in the evening expounded
Acts xx. 1-12. There was at this time a very agreeable melting spread through
the whole assembly. I think I scarce ever saw a more desirable affection
in any number of people in my life. There was scarce a dry eye to be seen
among them, and yet nothing boisterous or unseemly, nothing
that tended to disturb the public worship; but rather to encourage and
excite a christian ardour and spirit of devotion. Those who, I have reason
to hope, were savingly renewed, were first affected and seemed to rejoice
much, but with brokenness of spirit and godly fear. Their exercises were
much the same with those mentioned in my Journal of August 26, evidently
appearing to be the genuine effect of a Spirit of adoption.
398
BRAINERD’S JOURNAL.
After
public service was over I withdrew, (being much tired with the labours
of the day,) and the Indians continued praying among themselves for near
two hours together; which continued exercises appeared to be attended with
a blessed quickening influence from on high.--I could not but earnestly
wish that numbers of God’s people had been present at this season,
to see and hear these things, which I am sure must refresh the heart of
every true lover of Zion’s interest. To see those who very lately were
savage, pagans and idolaters, “having no hope, and without God in the world,”
now filled with a sense of divine love and grace, and worshipping the “Father
in spirit and in truth,” as numbers here appeared to do, was not a little
affecting; and especially to see them appear so tender and humble, as well
as lively, fervent, and devout in the divine service.
Oct.
24. Discoursed from John iv. 13, 14. There was a great attention, a desirable
affection, and an unaffected melting in the assembly.--It is surprising
to see how eager they are of hearing the word of God. I have oftentimes
thought they would cheerfully and diligently attend divine worship twenty-four
hours together, had they an opportunity so to do.
Oct.
25. Discoursed to my people respecting the resurrection, from Luke
xx. 27-36. And when I came to mention the blessedness the godly shall enjoy
at that season; their final freedom from death, sin, and sorrow; their
equality to the angels in regard of their nearness to, and enjoyment
of, Christ; (some imperfect degree of which they are favoured with in the
present life, from whence springs their sweetest comfort;) and their being
the children of God, openly acknowledged by him as such;
I say, when I mentioned these things, numbers of them were much affected,
and melted with a view of this blessed state.
Oct.
26. Being called to assist in the administration of the Lord’s supper,
in a neighbouring congregation, I invited my people to go with me, who
in general embraced the opportunity cheerfully, and attended the several
discourses of that solemnity with diligence and affection, most of them
now understanding something of the English language.
Lord’s
day, Oct.
27. While I was preaching to a vast assembly of people abroad, who appeared
generally easy and secure enough, there was one Indian woman, a stranger,
who never heard me preach before, nor ever regarded any thing about religion--being
now persuaded by some of her friends to come to meeting, though much against
her will--was seized with pressing concern for her soul, and soon after
expressed a great desire of going home, more than forty miles distant,
to call her husband, that he also might be awakened to a concern for his
soul. Some other of the Indians also appeared to be affected with divine
truths this day.
The
pious people of the English, numbers of whom I had opportunity to converse
with, seemed refreshed with seeing the Indians worship God in that devout
and solemn manner with the assembly of his people: and with those mentioned
Acts xi. 18. they could not but “glorify God, saying, Then hath God also
to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.”
Oct.
28. Preached again to a great assembly, at which time some of my people
appeared affected; and when public worship was over, were inquisitive whether
there would not be another sermon in the evening, or before the sacramental
solemnity was concluded; being still desirous to hear God’s word.
CROSSWEEKSUNG,
Oct.
28. Discoursed from Matt. xxii, 1-13. I was enabled to open the Scripture,
and adapt my discourse and expressions to the capacities of my people,
I know not how, in a plain, easy, and familiar manner, beyond all
that I could, have done by the utmost study: and this, without any special
difficulty; yea, with as much freedom as if I had been addressing a common
audience, who had been instructed in the doctrine of Christianity all their
days.
The
word of God at this time seemed to fall upon the assembly with a divine
power and influence, especially toward the close of my discourse: there
was both a sweet melting and bitter mourning in the audience.--The dear
Christians were refreshed and comforted,--convictions revived in others,
and sundry persons newly awakened who had never been with us before; and
so much of the divine presence appeared in the assembly, that it seemed
“this was no other than the house of God, and the gate of heaven.” And
all that had any savour and relish of divine things were even constrained
by the sweetness of that season to say, “Lord, it is good for us to be
here!” If ever there was amongst my people an appearance of the New Jerusalem--“as
a bride adorned for her husband,” there was much of it at this time; and
so agreeable was the entertainment where such tokens of the divine presence
were, that I could scarce be willing in the evening to leave the place,
and repair to my lodgings. I was refreshed with a view of the continuance
of this blessed work of grace among them, and its influence upon strangers
of the Indians that had of late, from time to time, providentially fallen
into these parts.
Nov.
1. Discoursed from Luke xxiv. briefly explaining the whole chapter, and
insisting especially upon some particular passages.--The discourse was
attended with some affectionate concern upon some of the hearers, though
not equal to what has often appeared among them.
Lord’s
day, Nov.
3. Preached to my people from Luke xvi. 17. “And it is easier for heaven
and earth,” &c. more especially for the sake of several lately brought
under deep concern for their souls. There was some apparent concern and
affection in the assembly, though far less than has been usual of late.
Afterwards
I baptized fourteen persons of the Indians, six adults and eight
children: one of these was near fourscore years of age, and I have
reason to hope God has brought her savingly home to himself. Two of the
others were men of fifty years old, who had been singular and remarkable,
even among the Indians, for their wickedness; one of them had been a murderer,
and both notorious drunkards, as well as excessively quarrelsome; but now
I cannot but hope both are become subjects of God’s special grace, especially
the worst of them.* I deferred their baptism for many weeks after
they had given evidences of having passed a great change, that I might
have more opportunities to observe the fruits of the impressions they had
been under, and apprehended the way was now clear. There was not one of
the adults I baptized, but what had given me some comfortable grounds to
hope, that God had wrought a work of special grace in their hearts; although
I could not have the same degree of satisfaction respecting one or two
of them, as the rest.
Nov.
4. Discoursed from John xi. briefly explaining most of the chapter.--Divine
truths made deep impressions upon many in the assembly; numbers were affected
with a view of the power of Christ, manifested in his raising the dead;
and especially when this instance of his power was improved to show his
power and ability to raise dead souls (such as many of them then felt themselves
to be) to a spiritual life; as also to raise the dead at the last day,
and dispense to them due rewards and punishments.
There
were sundry of the persons lately come here from remote places, that were
now brought under deep and pressing concern for their souls, particularly
one--who not long since came half drunk, and railed on us, and attempted
by all means to disturb us while engaged in the divine worship--was now
so concerned and distressed for her soul, that she seemed unable to get
any ease without an interest in Christ. There were many tears and affectionate
sobs and groans in the assembly in general, some weeping for themselves,
others for their friends. And although persons are doubtless much easier
affected now, than they were in the beginning of this religious concern,
when tears and cries for their souls were things unheard of among them;
yet I must say, their affection in general appeared genuine and
unfeigned; and especially this appeared very conspicuous in those
newly awakened. So that true and genuine
*
The man particularly mentioned in my Journal of August 10th, as being then
awakened.
PART
I. GENERAL REMARKS. 399
convictions
of sin seem still to be begun and promoted in many instances.
Baptized
a child this day, and perceived sundry of the baptized persons affected
with the administration of this ordinance, as being thereby reminded of
their own solemn engagements.--
I
have now baptized in all forty-seven persons of the Indians, twenty-three
adults, and twenty-four children; thirty-five of them belonging
to these parts, and the rest to the Forks of Delaware: and, through rich
grace, none of them as yet have been left to disgrace their profession
of Christianity by any scandalous or unbecoming behaviour.
GENERAL
REMARKS ON PART FIRST.
I
MIGHT now justly make many remarks on a work of grace so very remarkable
as this has been in divers respects; but shall confine myself to a few
general hints only.
1st,
It is remarkable that God began this work among the Indians at a time when
I had the least hope, and, to my apprehension, the least rational prospect
of, seeing a work of grace propagated amongst them. My bodily strength
being then much wasted by a late tedious journey to Susquehannah, where
I was necessarily exposed to hardships and fatigues among the Indians:
my mind being also exceedingly depressed with a view of the unsuccessfulness
of my labours. I had little reason so much as to hope that God had made
me instrumental in the saving conversion of any of the Indians except my
interpreter and his wife. Whence I was ready to look upon myself as a burden
to the Honourable Society, that employed and supported me in this business,
and began to entertain serious thoughts of giving up my mission;
and almost resolved I would do so at the conclusion of the present year,
if I had then no better prospect of special success in my work than I had
hitherto had. I cannot say I entertained these thoughts because I was weary
of the labours and fatigues that necessarily attended my present business,
or because I had light and freedom in my own mind to turn any other way;
but purely through dejection of spirit, pressing discouragement, and an
apprehension of its being unjust to spend money consecrated to religious
uses, only to civilize the Indians, and bring them to an external
profession of Christianity. This was all that I could then see any prospect
of having effected, while God seemed, as I thought, evidently to frown
upon the design of their saving conversion, by withholding the convincing
and renewing influences of his blessed Spirit from attending the means
I had hitherto used with them for that end.
And
in this frame of mind I first visited these Indians at Crossweeksung, apprehending
it was my indispensable duty, seeing I had heard there was a number in
these parts, to make some attempts for their conversion to God, though
I cannot say I had any hope of success, my spirits being now so extremely
sunk. And I do not know that my hopes respecting the conversion of the
Indians were ever reduced to so low an ebb, since I had any special
concern for them, as at this time.--And yet this was the very season
that God saw fittest to begin this glorious work in! And thus he “ordained
strength out of weakness,” by making bare his almighty arm at a time when
all hopes and human probabilities most evidently appeared
to fail.--Whence I learn, that it is good to follow the path of duty,
though in the midst of darkness and discouragement.
2dly,
It is remarkable how God providentially, and in a manner almost unaccountable,
called these Indians together to be instructed in the great things that
concerned their souls; and how he seized their minds with the most solemn
and weighty concern for their eternal salvation, as fast as they came to
the place where his word was preached. When I first came into these parts
in June, I found not one man at the place I visited, but only four
women and a few children, but before I had been here many days they gathered
from all quarters, some from more than twenty miles distant; and when I
made them a second visit in the beginning of August, some came more than
forty miles to hear me.--And many came without any intelligence of what
was going on here, and consequently without any design of theirs,
so much as to gratify their curiosity; so that it seemed as if God had
summoned them together from all quarters for nothing else but to deliver
his message to them; and that he did this, with regard to some of them,
without making use of any human means; although there were pains
taken by some of them to give notice to others at remote places.
Nor
is it less surprising that they were one after another affected with a
solemn concern for their souls, almost as soon as they came upon the spot
where divine truths were taught them. I could not but think often, that
their coming to the place of our public worship, was like Saul and his
messengers coming among the prophets; they no sooner came but they prophesied;
and these were almost as soon affected with a sense of their sin and misery,
and with an earnest concern for deliverance, as they made their appearance
in our assembly.--After this work of grace began with power among
them, it was common for strangers of the Indians, before they had
been with us one day, to be much awakened, deeply convinced of their sin
and misery, and to inquire with great solicitude, “What they should do
to be saved?”
3dly,
It is likewise remarkable how God preserved these poor ignorant Indians
from being prejudiced against me, and the truths I taught them, by those
means that were used with them for that purpose by ungodly people. There
were many attempts made by some ill-minded persons of the white
people to prejudice them against, or fright them from, Christianity. They
sometimes told them, the Indians were well enough already:--that there
was no need of all this
noise about Christianity:--that if they
were Christians, they would be in no better, no safer, or happier state,
than they were already in, &c.
Sometimes
they told them that I was a knave, a deceiver, and the like:
that I daily taught them lies, and had no other design but to impose upon
them, &c. And when none of these, and such like suggestions, would
avail to their purpose, they then tried another expedient, and told the
Indians, “My design was to gather together as large a body of them as I
possibly could, and then sell them to England for slaves.” Than which nothing
could be more likely to terrify the Indians, they being naturally of a
jealous disposition, and the most averse to a state of servitude perhaps
of any people living.
But
all these wicked insinuations, through divine goodness overruling, constantly
turned against the authors of them, and only served to engage the
affections of the Indians more firmly to me: for they being awakened to
a solemn concern for their souls, could not but observe, that the persons
who endeavoured to imbitter their minds against me, were altogether unconcerned
about their own souls, and not only so, but vicious and profane; and thence
could not but argue, that if they had no concern for their own,
it was not likely they should have for the souls of others.
It
seems yet the more wonderful that the Indians were preserved from once
hearkening to these suggestions, inasmuch as I was an utter stranger among
them, and could give them no assurance of my sincere affection to and concern
for them, by any thing that was past,--while the persons that insinuated
these things were their old acquaintance, who had frequent opportunities
of gratifying their thirsty appetites with strong drink, and consequently,
doubtless, had the greatest interest in their affections.--But from this
instance of their preservation from fatal prejudices, I have had occasion
with admiration to say, “If God will work, who can hinder?”
4thly,
Nor is it less wonderful how God was pleased to provide a remedy
for my want of skill and freedom in the Indian language, by remarkably
fitting my interpreter for, and assisting him in, the performance of his
work. It might reasonably be supposed I must needs labour under a vast
disadvantage in addressing the Indians by an interpreter; and that divine
truths would unavoidably lose much of the energy and pathos
with which they might at first be delivered, by reason of their coming
to the audience from a second hand. But although this has often,
to my sorrow and discouragement, been the case in times past, when my interpreter
had little or no sense of divine things, yet now it was quite otherwise.
I cannot think my ad-
400
BRAINERD’S JOURNAL.
dresses
to the Indians ordinarily since the beginning of this season of grace,
have lost any thing of their power or pungency with which they were made,
unless it were sometimes for want of pertinent and pathetic terms and expressions
in the Indian language; which difficulty could not have been much redressed
by my personal acquaintance with their language.--My interpreter had before
gained some good degree of doctrinal knowledge, whereby he was rendered
capable of understanding and communicating, without mistakes, the intent
and meaning of my discourses, and that without being confined strictly,
and obliged to interpret verbatim. He had likewise, to appearance,
an experimental acquaintance with divine things; and it pleased
God at this season to inspire his mind with longing desires for the conversion
of the Indians, and to give him admirable zeal and fervency in addressing
them in order thereto. And it is remarkable, that when I was favoured with
any special assistance in any work, and enabled to speak with more
than common freedom, fervency, and power, under a
lively and affecting sense of divine things, he was usually
affected in the same manner almost instantly, and seemed at once
quickened and enabled to speak in the same pathetic language, and
under the same influence that I did. And a surprising energy often
accompanied the word at such seasons; so that the face of the whole assembly
would be apparently changed almost in an instant, and tears and sobs became
common among them.
He
also appeared to have such a clear doctrinal view of God’s usual methods
of dealing with souls under a preparatory work of conviction and
humiliation as he never had before; so that I could, with his help,
discourse freely with the distressed persons about their internal
exercises, their fears, discouragements, temptations, &c. He likewise
took pains day and night to repeat and inculcate upon the minds of the
Indians the truths I taught them daily; and this he appeared to do, not
from spiritual pride, and an affectation of setting himself up as a public
teacher, but from a spirit of faithfulness, and an honest concern for
their souls.
His
conversation among the Indians has likewise, so far as I know, been savoury,
as becomes a Christian and a person employed in his work; and I may justly
say, he has been a great comfort to me, and a great instrument of promoting
this good work among the Indians: so that whatever be the state of his
own soul, it is apparent God has remarkably fitted him for this work.--And
thus God has manifested that, without bestowing on me the gift of
tongues, he could find a way wherein I might be as effectually enabled
to convey the truths of his glorious gospel to the minds of these poor
benighted pagans.
5thly,
It is further remarkable, that God has carried on his work here by such
means, and in such a manner, as tended to obviate, and leave
no room for, those prejudices and objections that have often been raised
against such a work. When persons have been awakened to a solemn concern
for their souls, by hearing the more awful truths of God’s word,
and the terrors of the divine law, insisted upon, it has usually
in such cases been objected by some, that such persons were only frighted
with a fearful noise of hell and damnation; and that
there was no evidence that their concern was the effect of a divine influence.
But God has left no room for this objection in the present case, this
work of grace having been begun and carried on by almost one continued
strain of gospel invitation to perishing sinners. This may reasonably
be guessed, from a view of the passages of Scripture I chiefly insisted
upon in my discourses from time to time; which I have for that purpose
inserted in my Journal.
Nor
have I ever seen so general an awakening in any assembly in my life as
appeared here, while I was opening and insisting upon the parable of the
great supper, Luke xiv. In which discourse I was enabled to set
before my hearers the unsearchable riches of gospel-grace.--Not
that I would be understood here, that I never instructed the Indians respecting
their fallen state, and the sinfulness and misery
of it: for this was what I at first chiefly insisted upon with them,
and endeavouring to repeat and inculcate in almost every discourse, knowing
that without this foundation I should but build upon the sand;
and that it would be in vain to invite them to Christ, unless I could convince
them of their need of him, Mark ii. 17.
But
still, this great awakening, this surprising concern, was never excited
by any harangues of terror, but always appeared most remarkable
when I insisted upon the compassions of a dying Saviour, the plentiful
provisions of the gospel, and the free offers of divine grace to
needy, distressed sinners.--Nor would I be understood to insinuate,
that such a religious concern might justly be suspected--as not
being genuine, and from a divine influence--because produced by the preaching
of terror: for this is perhaps God’s more usual way of awakening
sinners, and appears entirely agreeable to Scripture, and sound reason.--But
what I meant here to observe is, that God saw fit to employ and
bless milder means for the effectual awakening of these Indians,
and thereby obviated the forementioned objection, which the world might
otherwise have had a more plausible colour of making.
And
as there has been no room for any plausible objection against this work,
in regard of the means; so neither in regard of the manner
in which it has been carried on.--It is true, persons’ concern for their
souls has been exceeding great, the convictions of their sin and misery
have risen to a high degree, and produced many tears, cries, and
groans: but then they have not been attended with those disorders,
either bodily or mental, that have sometimes prevailed among persons under
religious impressions.--There has here been no appearance of those convulsions,
bodily agonies, frightful screamings, swoonings, and the like, that
have been so much complained of in some places; although there have been
some who, with the jailer, have been made to tremble under a sense
of their sin and misery,--numbers who have been made to cry out from a
distressing view of their perishing state,--and some that have been, for
a time, in a great measure, deprived of their bodily strength, yet without
any such convulsive appearances.
Nor
has there been any appearance of mental disorders here, such as
visions, trances, imaginations of being under prophetic inspiration,
and the like; or scarce any unbecoming disposition to appear remarkably
affected either with concern or joy; though I must confess, I observed
one or two persons, whose concern, I thought, was in a considerable
measure affected; and one whose joy appeared to be of the same kind.
But these workings of spiritual pride I endeavoured to crush in
their first appearances, and have not since observed any affection, either
of joy or sorrow, but what appeared genuine and unaffected.
But,
6thly,
and lastly, The effects of this work have likewise been very
remarkable. I doubt not but that many of these people have gained more
doctrinal knowledge of divine truths, since I first visited them
in June last, than could have been instilled into their minds by the most
diligent use of proper and instructive means for whole years together,
without such a divine influence. Their pagan notions and idolatrous
practices seem to be entirely abandoned in these parts. They are regulated,
and appear regularly disposed, in the affairs of marriage; an instance
whereof I have given in my Journal of August 14. They seem generally divorced
from drunkenness, their darling vice, the “sin that easily besets
them;” so that I do not know of more than two or three who have been my
steady hearers, that have drank to excess since I first visited
them, although before it was common for some or other of them to be drunk
almost every day: and some of them seem now to fear this sin in particular
more than death itself. A principle of honesty and justice appears in many
of them, and they seem concerned to discharge their old debts, which they
have neglected, and perhaps scarce thought of, for years past. Their manner
of living is much more decent and comfortable than formerly,
having now the benefit of that money which they used to consume upon strong
drink. Love seems to reign among them, especially those who have
given evidences of having passed a saving change: and I never saw any appearance
of bitterness or censoriousness in these, nor any disposition to
“esteem themselves better than others,” who had not received the like mercy.
As
their sorrows under convictions have been great and
PART
I. GENERAL REMARKS. 401
pressing,
so many of them have since appeared to “rejoice with joy unspeakable, and
full of glory;” and yet I never saw any thing ecstatic or flighty
in their joy. Their consolations do not incline them to lightness; but,
on the contrary, are attended with solemnity, and oftentimes with
tears, and an apparent brokenness of heart, as may be seen
in several passages of my Journal: and in this respect some of them have
been surprised at themselves, and have with concern observed to me, that
“when their hearts have been glad,” (which is a phrase they commonly make
use of to express spiritual joy,) “they could not help crying for all.”
And
now, upon the whole, I think I may justly say, here are all the symptoms
and evidences of a remarkable work of grace among these Indians, that can
reasonably be desired or looked for. May the great Author of this
work maintain and promote the same here, and propagate it every
where, till “the whole earth be filled with his glory!” Amen.
I
have now rode more than three thousand miles, that I have kept an exact
account of, since the beginning of March last; and almost the whole of
it has been in my own proper business as a missionary, upon the
design (either immediately or more remotely) of propagating christian
knowledge among the Indians. I have taken pains to look out for a collegue,
or companion, to travel with me: and have likewise used endeavours
to procure something for his support, among religious persons in New England,
which cost me a journey of several hundred miles in length; but have not
as yet found any person qualified and disposed for this good work, although
I had some encouragement from ministers and others, that it was
hopeful a maintenance might be procured for one, when the man should
be found.
I
have likewise of late represented to the gentlemen concerned with this
mission, the necessity of having an English school speedily
set up among these Indians, who are now willing to be at the pains of gathering
together in a body for this purpose. And in order thereto, have humbly
proposed to them the collecting of money for the maintenance of a schoolmaster,
and defraying of other necessary charges in the promotion of this good
work; which they are now attempting in the several congregations of Christians
to which they respectively belong.
The
several companies of Indians I have preached to in the summer past, live
at great distances from each other. It is more than seventy miles
from Crossweeksung in New Jersey, to the Forks of Delaware in Pennsylvania.
And from thence to sundry of the Indian settlements I visited on Susquehannah,
is more than a hundred and twenty miles. And so much of my time is necessarily
consumed in journeying, that I can have but little for any of my
necessary studies, and consequently for the study of the Indian languages
in particular; and especially seeing I am obliged to discourse so frequently
to the Indians at each of these places while I am with them, in order to
redeem time to visit the rest. I am, at times, almost discouraged from
attempting to gain any acquaintance with the Indian languages, they are
so very numerous, (some account of which I gave in my Journal of May last,)
and especially seeing my other labours and fatigues engross almost the
whole of my time, and bear exceeding hard upon my constitution,
so that my health is much impaired.--However, I have taken considerable
pains to learn the Delaware language, and propose still to do so, as far
as my other business and bodily health will admit. I have already made
some proficiency in it, though I have laboured under many and great disadvantages
in my attempts of that nature. And it is but just to observe here, that
all the pains I took to acquaint myself with the language of the Indians
I spent my first year with, were of little or no service to me here among
the Delawares; so that my work, when I came among these Indians, was all
to begin anew.
As
these poor ignorant pagans stood in need of having “line upon line, and
precept upon precept,” in order to their being instructed and grounded
in the principles of Christianity; so I preached “publicly, and taught
from house to house,” almost every day for whole weeks together,
when I was with them. And my public discourses did not then make
up the one half of my work, while there was so many constantly coming to
me with that important inquiry, “What must we do to be saved?” and opening
to me the various exercises of their minds. And yet I can say, (to the
praise of rich grace,) that the apparent success with which my labours
were crowned, unspeakably more than compensated for the labour itself,
and was likewise a great means of supporting and carrying me through the
business and fatigues, which, it seems, my nature would have sunk under,
without such an encouraging prospect. But although this success has afforded
matter of support, comfort, and thankfulness; yet in this season I have
found great need of assistance in my work, and have been much oppressed
for want of one to bear a part of my labours and hardships.--”
May the Lord of the harvest send forth other labourers into this
part of his harvest, that those who sit in darkness may see great light,
and that the whole earth may be filled with the knowledge of himself! Amen.”
DAVID
BRAINERD.
Nov.
20, 1745.
PART
II.
FROM
A.D. 1745, NOV. 24TH, TO JUNE 19TH, 1746, AT CROSSWEEKSUNG AND FORKS OF
DELAWARE
CROSSWEEKSUNG,
in New Jersey, November, 1745.
Lord’s
day, Nov.
24. Preached both parts of the day from the story of Zaccheus, Luke xix.
1-9. In the latter exercise, when I opened and insisted upon the salvation
that comes to the sinner, upon his becoming a son of Abraham,
or a true believer, the word seemed to be attended with divine power to
the hearts of the hearers. Numbers were much affected with divine truths;
former convictions were revived; one or two persons newly awakened; and
a most affectionate engagement in divine service appeared among them universally.--The
impressions they were under appeared to be the genuine effect of God’s
word brought home to their hearts, by the power and influence of the divine
Spirit.
Nov.
26. After having spent some time in private conferences with my people,
I discoursed publicly among them from John v. 1-9. I was favoured with
some special freedom and fervency in my discourse, and a powerful
energy accompanied divine truths. Many wept and sobbed affectionately,
and scarce any appeared unconcerned in the whole assembly. The influence
that seized the audience appeared gentle, and yet pungent and efficacious.
It produced no boisterous commotion of the passions, but seemed deeply
to affect the heart; and excite in the persons under convictions of their
lost state, heavy groans and tears:--and in others who had obtained comfort,
a sweet and humble melting. It seemed like the gentle but steady showers
that effectually water the earth, without violently beating upon the surface.--The
persons lately awakened were, some of them, deeply distressed for their
souls, and appeared earnestly solicitous to obtain an interest in Christ:
and some of them, after public worship was over, in anguish of spirit,
said, “They knew
VOL.
II. 2 n
402
BRAINERD’S JOURNAL.
not
what to do; nor how to get their wicked hearts changed,” &c.
Nov.
28. Discoursed to the Indians publicly, after having used some private
endeavours to instruct and excite some in the duties of Christianity. Opened
and made remarks upon the sacred story of our Lord’s transfiguration,
Luke ix. 28-36. Had a principal view, in my insisting upon this passage
of Scripture, to the edification and consolation of God’s people. And observed
some, that I have reason to think are truly such, exceedingly affected
with an account of the glory of Christ in his transfiguration; and filled
with longing desires of being with him, that they might with open face
behold his glory.
After
public service was over, I asked one of them, who wept and sobbed most
affectionately, “What she now wanted?” She replied, “Oh, to be with Christ!
she did not know how to stay,” &c. This was a blessed refreshing season
to the religious people in general. The Lord Jesus Christ seemed to manifest
his divine glory to them, its when transfigured before his disciples.
And they, with the disciples, were ready universally to say, “Lord, it
is good for us to be here.”
The
influence of God’s word was not confined to those who had given
evidences of being truly gracious, though at this time I calculated my
discourse for, and directed it chiefly to, such. But it appeared
to be a season of divine power in the whole assembly; so that most were,
in some measure, affected. And one aged man in particular, lately awakened,
was now brought under a deep and pressing concern for his soul, and was
earnestly inquisitive “how he might find Jesus Christ.”--God seems still
to vouchsafe his divine presence and the influence of his blessed Spirit
to accompany his word, at least in some measure, in all our meetings for
divine worship.
Nov.
30. Preached near night, after having spent some hours in private conference
with some of my people about their souls’ concerns. Explained and insisted
upon the story of the rich man and Lazarus, Luke xvi. 19-26. The word made
powerful impressions upon many in the assembly, especially while I discoursed
of the blessedness of “Lazarus in Abraham’s bosom.” This, I could
perceive, affected them much more than what I spoke of the rich man’s
misery and torments. And thus it has been usually with them. They have
almost always appeared much more affected with the comfortable than
the dreadful truths of God’s word. And that which has distressed
many of them under convictions is, that they found they wanted, and could
not obtain, the happiness of the godly; at least they have often appeared
to be more affected with this, than with the terrors of hell.
But whatever be the means of their awakening, it is plain, numbers
are made deeply sensible of their sin and misery, the wickedness
and stubbornness of their own hearts, their utter inability to help
themselves, or to come to Christ for help, without divine assistance; and
so are brought to see their perishing need of Christ to do all for
them, and to lie at the foot of sovereign mercy.
Lord’s
day, Dec.
1. Discoursed to my people in the forenoon from Luke xvi. 27-31. There
appeared an unfeigned affection in divers persons, and some seemed deeply
impressed with divine truths.--In the afternoon preached to a number of
white people; at which time the Indians attended with diligence, and many
of them were able to understand a considerable part of the discourse.
At
night discoursed to my people again, and gave them some particular cautions
and directions relating to their conduct in divers respects. And pressed
them to watchfulness in all their deportment, seeing they were encompassed
with those that “waited for their halting,” and who stood ready
to draw them into temptations of every kind, and then to expose
religion for their missteps.
Lord’s
day, Dec.
8. Discoursed on the story of the blind man, John ix. There appeared no
remarkable effect of the word upon the assembly at this time. The persons
who have lately been much concerned for their souls, seemed now not so
affected nor solicitous to obtain an interest in Christ as has been usual;
although they attended divine service with seriousness and diligence.
Such
have been the doings of the Lord here, in awakening sinners, and
affecting the hearts of those who are brought to solid comfort, with a
fresh sense of divine things from time to time, that it is now strange
to see the assembly sit with dry eyes, and without sobs and groans.
Dec.
12. Preached from the parable of the ten virgins, Matt. xxv. The divine
power seemed in some measure to attend this discourse, in which I was favoured
with uncommon freedom and plainness of address, and enabled to open
divine truths, and explain them to the capacities of my people, in a manner
beyond myself.--There appeared in many persons an affectionate concern
for their souls; although the concern in general seemed not so deep and
pressing as it had formerly done. Yet it was refreshing to see many melted
into tears and unaffected sobs; some with a sense of divine love,
and some for want of it.
Lord’s
day, Dec.
15. Preached to the Indians from Luke xiii. 24-28. Divine truths fell with
weight and power upon the audience, and seemed to reach the hearts of many.
Near night discoursed to them again from Matt. xxv. 31-46. At which season
also the word appeared to be accompanied with a divine influence, and made
powerful impressions upon the assembly in general, as well as upon divers
persons in a very special and particular manner. This was an amazing season
of grace! “The word of the Lord,” this day, “was quick and powerful, sharper
than a two-edged sword,” and pierced to the hearts of many. The assembly
was greatly affected, and deeply wrought upon; yet without so much
apparent commotion of the passions, as was usual in the beginning
of this work of grace. The impressions made by the word of God upon the
audience appeared solid, rational, and deep, worthy of the solemn truths
by means of which they were produced, and far from being the effects of
any sudden fright, or groundless perturbation of mind.
O
how did the hearts of the hearers seem to bow under the weight of divine
truths! And how evident did it now appear that they received and
felt them, “not as the word of man, but as the word of God!” None
can frame a just idea of the appearance of our assembly at this time, but
those who have seen a congregation solemnly awed, and deeply impressed,
by the special power and influence of divine truths delivered to
them in the name of God.
Dec.
16. Discoursed to my people in the evening from Luke xi. 1-13. After having
insisted some time upon the 9th verse, wherein there is a command and encouragement
to ask for the divine favours, I called upon them to ask for a new heart
with utmost importunity, as the man mentioned in the parable I was discoursing
upon, pleaded for loaves of bread at midnight.
There
was much affection and concern in the assembly; and especially one woman
appeared in great distress for her soul. She was brought to such an agony
in seeking after Christ, that the sweat ran off her face for a considerable
time together, although the evening was very cold; and her bitter cries
were the most affecting, indication of the inward anguish of her
heart.
Dec.
21. My people having now attained to a considerable degree of knowledge
in the principles of Christianity, I thought it proper to set up a catechetical
lecture among them; and this evening attempted something in that
form; proposing questions to them agreeable to the Reverend Assembly’s
Shorter Catechism, receiving their answers, and then explaining
and insisting as appeared necessary and proper upon each question. After
which I endeavoured to make some practical improvement of the whole. This
was the method I entered upon.--They were able readily and rationally
to answer many important questions I proposed to them: so that, upon trial,
I found their doctrinal knowledge to exceed my own expectations.
In the improvement of my discourse, when I came to infer and open the blessedness
of those who have so great and glorious a God, as had before been spoken
of, “for their everlasting friend and portion,” sundry were much affected;
and especially when I exhorted, and endeavoured to persuade them “to be
reconciled to God,” through his dear Son, and thus to secure an
interest in his everlasting favour. So that they appeared to be not only
enlightened and instructed, but affected and engaged in their
souls’ concern by this, method of discoursing.
PART
II. A.D. 1745, NOVEMBER-1746, JUNE. 403
Lord’s
day, Dec.
22. Discoursed upon the story of the young man in the gospel, Matt. ix.
16-22. God made it a seasonable word, I am persuaded, to some souls.--There
were sundry persons of the Indians newly come here, who had frequently
lived among Quakers; and being more civilized and conformed to English
manners than the generality of the Indians, they had imbibed some of the
Quakers’ errors, especially this fundamental one, viz. That if men
will but live soberly and honestly, according to the dictates of their
own consciences, (or the light within,) there is then no danger
or doubt of their salvation, &c.--These persons I found much worse
to deal with than those who are wholly under pagan darkness, who make no
pretences to knowledge in Christianity at all, nor have any self-righteous
foundation to stand upon. However they all, except one, appeared now convinced,
that this sober, honest life, of itself, was not sufficient to salvation;
since Christ himself had declared it so in the case of the young man. And
seemed in some measure concerned to obtain that change of heart, the necessity
of which I had been labouring to show them.
This
was likewise a season of comfort to some souls, and in particular
to one, (the same mentioned in my Journal of the 16th instant,) who never
before obtained any settled comfort, though I have abundant reason to think
she had passed a saving change some days before.--She now appeared in a
heavenly frame of mind, composed and delighted with the divine will. When
I came to discourse particularly with her, and to inquire of her, how she
got relief and deliverance from the spiritual distresses she had lately
been under, she answered in broken English,* “Me try, me try, save myself,
last my strength be all gone, (meaning her ability to save herself,) could
not me stir bit further. Den last, me forced let Jesus Christ alone, send
me hell if he please.” I said, But you was not willing to go to hell, was
you? She replied,† “Could not me help it. My heart he would wicked for
all. Could not me make him good;” (meaning she saw it was right she should
go to hell because her heart was wicked, and would be so after all she
could do to mend it). I asked her, how she got out of this case? She answered
still in the same broken language,‡ “By by my heart be grad desperately.”
I asked her why her heart was glad? She replied, “Grad my heart Jesus Christ
do what he please with me. Den me tink, grad my heart Jesus Christ send
me hell. Did not me care where he put me, me lobe him for all,” &c.
And
she could not readily be convinced but that she was willing to go to hell,
if Christ was pleased to send her there. Though the truth evidently was,
her will was swallowed up in the divine will, that she could not frame
any hell in her imagination that would be dreadful or undesirable, provided
it was but the will of God to send her to it.--Toward night discoursed
to them again in the catechetical method I entered upon the evening
before. And when I came to improve the truths I had explained to them,
and to answer that question, “But how shall I know whether God has chosen
me to everlasting life,” by pressing them to come and give up their hearts
to Christ, and thereby “to make their election sure;” they then appeared
much affected: and the persons under concern were afresh engaged in seeking
after an interest in him; while some others who had obtained comfort before,
were refreshed to find that love to God in themselves, which was an evidence
of his electing love to them.
Dec.
25. The Indians having been used upon Christmas days to drink and revel
among some of the white people in these parts, I thought it proper
this day to call them together, and discourse to them upon divine things:
which I accordingly did from the parable of the barren fig-tree, Luke xiii.
6-9. A divine influence, I am persuaded, accompanied the word at this season.
The power of God appeared in the assembly, not by producing any remarkable
cries, but by shocking and rousing at heart, as it seemed, several
stupid creatures that were scarce ever moved with any concern before. The
power attending divine truths seemed to have the influence of the earthquake
rather than the whirlwind upon them. Their passions were
not so much alarmed as has been common here in times past, but their judgments
appeared to be powerfully convinced by the masterlyand conquering
influence of divine truths. The impressions made upon the assembly in general,
seemed not superficial, but deep and heart-affecting. O how
ready did they now appear universally to embrace and comply with every
thing they heard and were convinced was duty!--God was in the midst of
us of a truth, bowing and melting stubborn hearts! How many tears and sobs
were then to be seen and heard among us! What liveliness and strict attention,
what eagerness and intenseness of mind, appeared in the whole assembly
in the time of divine service! They seemed to watch and wait for the dropping
of God’s word, as the thirsty earth for the “former and latter rain.”
Afterwards
I discoursed to them on the duty of husbands and wives, from Eph. v. 22,
23. and have reason to think this was a word in season.--Spent some time
further in the evening, in inculcating the truths I had insisted upon in
my former discourse respecting the barren fig-tree, and observed a powerful
influence still accompany what was spoken.
Dec.
26. This evening I was visited by a person under great spiritual exercise;
the most remarkable instance of this kind I ever saw. She was a woman of
(I believe) more than fourscore years old, and appeared to be much
broken and very childish through age; so that it seemed impossible
for man to instil into her mind any notions of divine things, not
so much as to give her any doctrinal instruction, because she seemed
incapable of being taught.--She was led by the hand into my house, and
appeared in extreme anguish. I asked her what ailed her? She answered,
“That her heart was distressed, and she feared she should never find Christ.”
I asked her when she began to be concerned? with divers other questions
relating to her distress. To all which she answered, for substance, to
this effect, viz. That she had heard me preach many times, but never
knew any thing about it, never “felt it in her heart” till the last sabbath;
and then it came (she said) “all one as if a needle had been thrust into
her heart;” since which time, she had no rest day nor night. She added,
that on the evening before Christmas, a number of Indians being together
at the house where she was, and discoursing about Christ, their
talk pricked her heart, so that she could not sit up, but fell down
on her bed; at which time she went away, (as she expressed it,)
and felt as if she dreamed, and yet is confident she did not dream. When
she was thus gone, she saw two paths; one appeared very broad and
crooked; and that turned to the left hand. The other appeared straight,
and very narrow; and that went up the hill to the right hand. She
travelled, she said, for some time up the narrow right-hand path, till
at length something seemed to obstruct her journey. She sometimes called
it darkness, and then described it otherwise, and seemed to compare it
to a block or bar. She then remembered what she had heard me say about
“striving to enter in at the strait gate,” (although she took little notice
of it, at the time when she heard me discourse upon that subject,) and
thought she would climb over this bar. But just as she was thinking of
this, she came back again, as she termed it, meaning that she came
to herself; whereupon her soul was extremely distressed, apprehending she
had now turned back and forsaken Christ, and that there was therefore no
hope of mercy for her.
As
I was sensible that trances and imaginary views of things,
are of dangerous tendency in religion, when sought after, and depended
upon; so I could not but be much concerned about this exercise, especially
at first; apprehending this might be a design of Satan to bring a blemish
upon the work of God here, by introducing visionary scenes, imaginary
terrors, and all manner of mental disorders and delusions, in the
room of genuine convictions of sin, and the enlightening influences of
the blessed Spirit; and I was almost resolved to declare that I looked
upon this to be one of Satan’s devices, and to caution my people
*
In proper English thus, “I tried and tried to save myself, till at last
my strength was all gone, and I could not stir any further. Then at last
I was forced to let Jesus Christ alone to send me to hell if he pleased.”
†
In plain English thus, “I could not help it. My heart would be wicked for
all what I could do. I could not make it good.”
‡
“By and by my heart was exceeding glad.--My heart was glad that Jesus Christ
would do with me what he pleased. Then I thought my heart would be glad
although Christ should send me to hell. I did not care where he put me,
I should love him for all; i.e., do what he would with me.”
2
n 2
404
BRAINERD’S JOURNAL.
against
it, and the like exercises, as such.--However, I determined first
to inquire into her knowledge, to see whether she had any just views of
things, that might be the occasion of her present distressing concern,
or whether it was a mere fright arising only from imaginary
terrors. I asked her divers questions respecting man’s primitive, and more
especially his present, state, and respecting her own heart; which she
answered rationally, and to my surprise. And I thought it was next to impossible,
if not altogether so, that a pagan who was become a child through
age, should in that state gain so much knowledge by any mere human instruction,
without being remarkably enlightened by a divine influence.
I
then proposed to her the provision made in the gospel for the salvation
of sinners, and the ability and willingness of Christ “to save to the uttermost
all (old as well as young) that come to him.” To which she seemed to give
a hearty assent. But instantly replied, “Ay, but I cannot come; my wicked
heart will not come to Christ; I do not know how to come,” &c. And
this she spoke in anguish of spirit, striking on her breast with tears
in her eyes, and with such earnestness in her looks as was indeed
piteous and affecting.
She
seems to be really convinced of her sin and misery, and her need of a change
of heart: and her concern is abiding and constant. So that nothing appears
but that this exercise may have a saving issue. And indeed it seems hopeful,
seeing she is so solicitous to obtain an interest in Christ, that her heart
(as she expresses it) prays day and night.
How
far God may make use of the imagination in awakening some persons
under these and such like circumstances, I cannot pretend to determine.
Or whether this exercise be from a divine influence, I shall leave others
to judge. But this I must say, that its effects hitherto bespeak it to
be such: nor can it, as I see, be accounted for in a rational way,
but from the influence of some spirit, either good or evil. For
the woman, I am sure, never heard divine things treated of in the manner
she now viewed them in; and it would seem strange she should get such a
rational notion of them from the mere working of her own
fancy, without some superior, or at least foreign, aid.--And yet I must
say, I have looked upon it as one of the glories of this work of grace
among the Indians, and a special evidence of its being from a divine
influence, that there has, till now, been no appearance of such things,
no visionary notions, trances, and imaginations, intermixed with those
rational convictions of sin, and solid consolations, that numbers have
been made the subjects of. And might I have had my desire, there had been
no appearance of any thing of this nature at all.
Dec.
28. Discoursed to my people in the catechetical method I lately
entered upon. And in the improvement of my discourse, wherein I was comparing
man’s present with his primitive state; and showing what
he had fallen from, and the miseries he is now involved in and exposed
to in his natural estate; and pressing sinners to take a view of their
deplorable circumstances without Christ; as also to strive that they might
obtain an interest in him; the Lord, I trust, granted a remarkable influence
of his blessed Spirit to accompany what was spoken, and a great concern
appeared in the assembly: many were melted into tears and sobs, and the
impressions made upon them seemed deep and heart-affecting. And
in particular, there were two or three persons who appeared to be brought
to the last exercises of a preparatory work, and reduced almost to extremity;
being in a great measure convinced of the impossibility of their helping
themselves, or of mending their own hearts; and seemed to be upon the point
of giving up all hope in themselves, and of venturing upon Christ
as naked, helpless, and undone. And yet were in distress and anguish
because they saw no safety in so doing, unless they could do something
towards saving themselves.--One of these persons was the very aged woman
above mentioned, who now appeared “weary and heavy laden” with a sense
of her sin and misery, and her perishing need of an interest in Christ.
Lord’s
day, Dec.
29. Preached from John iii. 1-5. A number of white people were present,
as is usual upon the sabbath. The discourse was accompanied with power,
and seemed to have a silent, but deep and piercing,
influence upon the audience. Many wept and sobbed affectionately. And there
were some tears among the white people, as well as the Indians. Some could
not refrain from crying out, though there were not many so exercised. But
the impressions made upon their hearts, appeared chiefly by the extraordinary
earnestness of their attention, and their heavy sighs and fears.
After
public worship was over, I went to my house, proposing to preach again
after a short season of intermission. But they soon came in one after another,
with tears in their eyes, to know “what they should do to be saved.” And
the divine Spirit in such a manner set home upon their hearts what I spoke
to them, that the house was soon filled with cries and groans. They all
flocked together upon this occasion, and those whom I had reason to think
in a Christless state, were almost universally seized with concern for
their souls.
It
was an amazing season of power among them, and seemed as if God
had “bowed the heavens, and come down.” So astonishingly prevalent was
the operation upon old as well as young, that it seemed as if none would
be left in a secure and natural state, but that God was now about to convert
all the world. And I was ready to think then, that I should
never again despair of the conversion of any man or woman living, be they
who or what they would.
It
is impossible to give a just and lively description of the appearance of
things at this season, at least such as to convey a bright and adequate
idea of the effects of this influence. A number might now be seen rejoicing
that God had not taken away the powerful influence of his blessed Spirit
from this place.--Refreshed to see so many “striving to enter in at the
strait gate;”--and animated with such concern for them, that they wanted
“to push them forward,” as some of them expressed it.--At the same time
numbers both of men and women, old and young, might be seen in tears, and
some in anguish of spirit, appearing in their very countenances, like condemned
malefactors bound towards the place of execution, with a heavy solicitude
sitting in their faces: so that there seemed here (as I thought) a lively
emblem of the solemn day of accounts; a mixture of heaven and hell, of
joy and anguish inexpressible.
The
concern and religious affection was such, that I could not pretend
to have any formal religious exercise among them; but spent the
time in discoursing to one and another, as I thought most proper and seasonable
for each, and sometimes addressed them all together, and finally concluded
with prayer.--Such were their circumstances at this season, that I could
scarce have
half an hour’s rest from speaking from about half an
hour before twelve o’clock, (at which time I began public worship,) till
past seven at night. There appeared to be four or five persons newly
awakened this day and the evening before, some of whom but very lately
came among us.
Dec.
30. Was visited by four or five young persons under concern for
their souls, most of whom were very lately awakened. They wept much while
I discoursed to them, and endeavoured to press upon them the necessity
of flying to Christ, without delay, for salvation.
Dec.
31. Spent some hours this day in visiting my people from house to house,
and conversing with them about their spiritual concerns; endeavouring to
press upon Christless souls the necessity of a renovation of heart: and
scarce left a house, without leaving some or other of its inhabitants in
tears, appearing solicitously engaged to obtain an interest in Christ.
The
Indians are now gathered together from all quarters to this place, and
have built them little cottages, so that more than twenty families
live within a quarter of a mile of me. A very convenient situation in regard
both of public and private instruction.
Jan.
1, 1746. Spent some considerable time in visiting my people again. Found
scarce one but what was under some serious impressions respecting their
spiritual concerns.
Jan.
2. Visited some persons newly come among us, who had scarce ever heard
any thing of Christianity before, except the empty name. Endeavoured to
instruct them, particularly by the first principles of religion,
in the
PART
II. A.D. 1745, NOVEMBER-1746, JUNE. 405
most
easy and familiar manner I could. There are strangers from remote parts
almost continually dropping in among us, so that I have occasion repeatedly
to open and inculcate the first principles of Christianity.
Jan.
4. Prosecuted my catechetical method of instructing. Found my people
able to answer questions with propriety, beyond what could have been expected
from persons so lately brought out of heathenish darkness. In the improvement
of my discourse, there appeared some concern and affection in the assembly:
and especially those of whom I entertained hopes as being truly gracious,
at least divers of them, were much affected and refreshed.
Lord’s
day, Jan.
5. Discoursed from Matt. xii. 10-13. There appeared not so much liveliness
and affection in divine service as usual. The same truths that have often
produced many tears and sobs in the assembly, seemed now to have no special
influence upon any in it.
Near
night I proposed to have proceeded in my usual method of catechising. But
while we were engaged in the first prayer, the power of God seemed to descend
upon the assembly in such a remarkable manner, and so many appeared under
pressing concern for their souls, that I thought it much more expedient
to insist upon the plentiful provision made by divine grace for the redemption
of perishing sinners, and to press them to a speedy acceptance of
the great salvation, than to ask them questions about doctrinal
points. What was most practicable, seemed most seasonable
to be insisted upon, while numbers appeared so extraordinarily solicitous
to obtain an interest in the great Redeemer. Baptized two persons this
day; one adult (the woman particularly mentioned in my Journal of Dec.
22) and one child.
This
woman has discovered a very sweet and heavenly frame of mind, from time
to time, since her first reception of comfort. One morning in particular
she came to see me, discovering an unusual joy and satisfaction in her
countenance; and when I inquired into the reason of it, she replied, “That
God had made her feel that it was right for him to do what he pleased
with all things; and that it would be right if he should cast her husband
and son both into hell; and she saw it was so right for God to do what
he pleased with them, that she could not but rejoice if God should send
them into hell;” though it was apparent she loved them dearly. She moreover
inquired, whether I was not sent to preach to the Indians, by some good
people a great way off. I replied, Yes, by the good people in Scotland.
She answered, that her heart loved those good people so, the evening before,
“that she could scarce help praying for them all night, her heart would
go to God for them,” &c. So that “the blessing of those ready to perish”
is like to come upon those pious persons who have communicated of their
substance to the propagation of the gospel.
Jan.
11. Discoursed in a catechetical method, as usual of late. And having
opened our first parent’s primitive apostasy from God, and our fall
in him; I proceeded to improve my discourse, by showing the necessity
we stood in of an Almighty Redeemer, and the absolute need every
sinner has of an interest in his merits and mediation. There was some tenderness
and affectionate concern apparent in the assembly.
Lord’s
day, Jan.
12. Preached from Isa. lv. 6. The word of God seemed to fall upon the audience
with a divine weight and influence, and evidently appeared to be “not the
word of man.” The blessed Spirit, I am persuaded, accompanied what was
spoken to the hearts of many. So that there was a powerful revival of conviction
in numbers who were under spiritual exercise before.
Towards
night catechised in my usual method. Near the close of my discourse, there
appeared a great concern, and much affection in the audience. Which increased
while I continued to invite them to come to an all-sufficient Redeemer
for eternal salvation.--The Spirit of God seems, from time to time, to
be striving with numbers of souls here. They are so frequently and repeatedly
roused, that they seem unable at present to lull themselves asleep.
Jan.
13. Was visited by divers persons under deep concern for their souls; one
of whom was newly awakened.--It is a most agreeable work to treat with
souls who are solicitously inquiring “what they shall do to be saved.”
And as we are never to “be weary in well-doing,” so the obligation seems
to be peculiarly strong when the work is so very desirable. And yet I must
say, my health is so much impaired, and my spirits so wasted with my labours,
and solitary manner of living, (there being no human creature in the house
with me,) that their repeated and almost incessant application to me for
help and direction, are sometimes exceeding burdensome, and so exhaust
my spirits, that I become fit for nothing at all, entirely unable to prosecute
any business sometimes for days together. And what contributes much toward
this difficulty is, that I am obliged to spend much time in communicating
a little matter to them; there being oftentimes many things necessary
to be premised, before I can speak directly to what I principally aim at;
which things would readily be taken for granted, where there was a competency
of doctrinal knowledge.
Jan.
14. Spent some time in private conference with my people, and found some
disposed to take comfort, as I thought, upon slight grounds.--They are
now generally awakened, and it is become so disgraceful, as well as terrifying
to the conscience, to be destitute of religion, that they are in imminent
danger of taking up with any appearances of grace, rather than to
live under the fear and disgrace of an unregenerate state.
Jan.
18. Prosecuted my catechetical method of discoursing. There appeared a
great solemnity, and some considerable affection in the assembly.--This
method of instructing I find very profitable. When I first entered upon
it, I was exercised with fears, lest my discourses would unavoidably be
so doctrinal, that they would tend only to enlighten the head,
but not to affect the heart. But the event proves
quite otherwise; for these exercises have hitherto been remarkably blessed
in the latter as well as the former respects.
Lord’s
day, Jan.
19. Discoursed to my people from Isa. lv. 7.--Towards night catechised
in my ordinary method. And this appeared to be a powerful season of grace
among us. Numbers were much affected. Convictions were powerfully revived;
and divers of the Christians refreshed and strengthened; and one weary,
heavy-laden soul, I have abundant reason to hope, brought to true
rest and solid comfort in Christ, who afterwards gave me such an account
of God’s dealing with his soul, as was abundantly satisfying as
well as refreshing to me.
He
told me he had often heard me say, that persons must see and feel
themselves utterly helpless and undone; that they must be emptied
of a dependence upon themselves, and of all hope of saving themselves by
their own doings, in order to their coming to Christ for salvation.
And he had long been striving after this view of things; supposing this
would be an excellent frame of mind, to be thus emptied of a dependence
upon his own goodness; that God would have respect to this frame,
would then be well pleased with him, and bestow eternal life upon
him.--But when he came to feel himself in this helpless undone condition,
he found it quite contrary to all his thoughts and expectations; so that
it was not the same frame, nor indeed any thing like the
frame, he had been seeking after. Instead of its being a good frame
of mind, he now found nothing but badness in himself, and saw it
was for ever impossible for him to make himself any better. He wondered,
he said, that he had ever hoped to mend his own heart. He was amazed he
had never before seen that it was utterly impossible for him, by
all his contrivances and endeavours, to do any thing that way, since
the matter now appeared to him in so clear a light.--Instead of
imagining now, that God would be pleased with him for the sake of this
frame of mind, and this view of his undone estate, he saw clearly,
and felt, it would be just with God to send him to eternal misery; and
that there was no goodness in what he then felt; for he could not
help seeing that he was naked, sinful, and miserable, and there was nothing
in such a sight to deserve God’s love or pity.
He
saw these things in a manner so clear and convincing, that it seemed to
him, he said, he could convince every body of their utter inability
ever to help themselves, and their unworthiness of any help from
God.--In this frame of mind he came to public worship this evening,
and while I was inviting sinners to come to Christ naked
406
BRAINERD’S JOURNAL.
and
empty, without any goodness of their own to recommend them
to his acceptance; then he thought with himself, that he had often tried
to come and give up his heart to Christ, and he used to hope, that some
time or other he should be able to do so. But now he was convinced
he could not, and it seemed utterly vain for him ever to try any
more: and he could not, he said, find a heart to make any further attempt,
because he saw it would signify nothing at all: nor did he now hope
for a better opportunity, or more ability hereafter, as he had formerly
done, because he saw, and was fully convinced, his own strength would for
ever fail.
While
he was musing in this manner, he saw, he said, with his heart (which is
a common phrase among them) something that was unspeakably good and lovely,
and what he had never seen before; and “this stole away his heart whether
he would or no.” He did not, he said, know what it was he saw. He did not
say, “this is Jesus Christ;” but it was such glory and beauty as he never
saw before. He did not now give away his heart so as he had formerly
intended and attempted to do, but it went away of itself after that
glory he then discovered. He used to try to make a bargain with Christ,
to give up his heart to him, that he might have eternal life for it.
But now he thought nothing about himself, or what would become of him hereafter;
but was pleased, and his mind wholly taken up, with the unspeakable excellency
of what he then beheld.--After some time he was wonderfully pleased with
the way of salvation by Christ: so that it seemed unspeakably better to
be saved altogether by the mere free grace of God in Christ, than
to have any hand in saving himself.--And the consequence of this
exercise is, that he appears to retain a sense and relish of divine things,
and to maintain a life of seriousness and true religion.
Jan.
28. The Indians in these parts have, in times past, run themselves in debt
by their excessive drinking; and some have taken the advantage of them,
and put them to trouble and charge by arresting sundry of them; whereby
it was supposed their hunting lands, in great part, were much endangered,
and might speedily be taken from them. Being sensible that they could not
subsist together in these parts, in order to their being a christian congregation,
if these lands should be taken, which was thought very likely, I thought
it my duty to use my utmost endeavours to prevent so unhappy an event.
And having acquainted the gentlemen concerned with this mission
of the affair, according to the best information I could get of it, they
thought it proper to expend the money they had been, and still were, collecting
for the religious interest of the Indians, (at least a part of it,)
for discharging their debts, and securing these lands, that there might
be no entanglement lying upon them to hinder the settlement and hopeful
enlargement of a christian congregation of Indians in these parts.--And
having received orders from them, I answered, in behalf of the Indians,
eighty-two pounds five shillings, New Jersey currency, at eight
shillings per ounce; and so prevented the danger of difficulty in this
respect.
As
God has wrought a wonderful work of grace among these Indians, and
now inclines others from remote places to fall in among them almost continually;
and as he has opened a door for the prevention of the difficulty now mentioned,
which seemed greatly to threaten their religious interests, as well as
worldly comfort; it is hopeful that he designs to establish a church
for himself among them, and hand down true religion to their posterity.
Jan.
30. Preached to the Indians from John iii. 16, 17. There was a solemn attention
and some affection visible in the audience; especially divers persons who
had long been concerned for their souls, seemed afresh excited and engaged
in seeking after an interest in Christ. And one, with much concern, afterwards
told me, “his heart was so pricked with my preaching, he knew not where
to turn, nor what to do.”
Jan.
31. This day the person I had made choice of and engaged for a schoolmaster
among the Indians, arrived among us, and was heartily welcomed by my people
universally.--Whereupon I distributed several dozen of primers among
the children and young people.
Feb.
1, 1746. My schoolmaster entered upon his business among the Indians.--He
has generally about thirty children and young persons in his school in
the day-time, and about fifteen married people in his evening-school.
The number of the latter sort of persons being less than it would be, if
they could be more constant at home, and spare time from their necessary
employments for an attendance upon these instructions.
In
the evening catechised in my usual method. Towards the close of my discourse
a surprising power seemed to attend the word, especially to some persons.--One
man, considerably in years, who had been a remarkable drunkard, a conjurer,
and murderer, that was awakened some months before, was now brought to
great extremity under his spiritual distress, so that he trembled for hours
together, and apprehended himself just dropping into hell, without any
power to rescue or relieve himself.--Divers others appeared under great
concern as well as he, and solicitous to obtain a saving change.
Lord’s
day, Feb.
2. Preached from John v. 24, 25. There appeared (as usual) some concern
and affection in the assembly. Toward night proceeded in my usual method
of catechising. Observed my people more ready in answering the questions
proposed to them than ever before. It is apparent they advanced daily in
doctrinal knowledge. But what is still more desirable, the Spirit
of God is yet operating among them, whereby experimental, as well
as speculative, knowledge is propagated in their minds.
Feb.
5. Discoursed to a considerable number of the Indians in the evening; at
which time divers of them appeared much affected and melted with divine
things.
Feb.
8. Spent a considerable part of the day in visiting my people from house
to house, and conversing with them about their souls’ concerns. Divers
persons wept while I discoursed to them, and appeared concerned for nothing
so much as for an interest in the great Redeemer.--In the evening catechised
as usual. Divine truths made some impression upon the audience, and were
attended with an affectionate engagement of soul in some.
Lord’s
day, Feb.
9. Discoursed to my people from the story of the blind man, Matt. x. 46-52.
The word of God seemed weighty and powerful upon the assembly at this time,
and made considerable impressions upon many; divers in particular who have
generally been remarkably stupid and careless under the means of grace,
were now awakened, and wept affectionate. And the most earnest attention,
as well as tenderness and affection, appeared in the audience universally.
Baptized
three
persons, two adults and one child. The adults, I have reason to hope, were
both truly pious. There was a considerable melting in the assembly, while
I was discoursing particularly to the persons, and administering the ordinance.--God
has been pleased to own and bless the administration of this, as
well as of his other ordinances, among the Indians. There are some
here that have been powerfully awakened at seeing others baptized. And
some that have obtained relief and comfort, just in the season when this
ordinance has been administered.
Toward
night catechised. God made this a powerful season to some. There were many
affected.--Former convictions appeared to be powerfully revived. There
was likewise one, who had been a vile drunkard, remarkably awakened. He
appeared to be in great anguish of soul, wept and trembled, and continued
so to do till near midnight.--There was also a poor heavy laden
soul, who had been long under spiritual distress, as constant and pressing
as ever I saw, that was now brought to a comfortable calm, and seemed
to be bowed and reconciled to divine sovereignty; and told me, “She
now saw and felt it was right God should do with her as he pleased. And
her heart felt pleased and satisfied it should be so.” Although of late
she had often found her heart rise and quarrel with God because he would,
if he pleased, send her to hell after all she had done or could
do to save herself, &c. And added, that the heavy burden she
had lain under, was now removed: that she had tried to recover her concern
and distress again, (fearing that the Spirit of God was departing from
her, and would leave her wholly careless,) but that she could not recover
it: that she felt she never could do any thing to save herself, but must
perish for ever if
PART
II. A.D. 1745, NOVEMBER-1746, JUNE. 407
Christ
did not do all for her: that she did not deserve he should help
her; and that it would be right if he should leave her to perish.
But Christ could save her, though she could do nothing to save herself,
&c. And here she seemed to rest.
FORKS
OF DELAWARE, in Pennsylvania, Feb. 1746.
Lord’s
day, Feb.
16. Knowing that divers of the Indians in those parts were obstinately
set against Christianity, and that some of them had refused to hear me
preach in times past, I thought it might be proper and beneficial to the
christian interest here, to have a number of my religious people from Crossweeksung
with me, in order to converse with them about religious matters; hoping
it might be a means to convince them of the truth and importance of Christianity,
to see and hear some of their own nation discoursing of divine things,
and manifesting earnest desires that others might be brought out of heathenish
darkness, as themselves were.
And
having taken half a dozen of the most serious and knowing persons
for this purpose, I this day met with them and the Indians of this place,
(sundry of whom probably could not have been prevailed upon to attend the
meeting, had it not been for these religious Indians that accompanied me
here,) and preached to them.--Some of them who had, in times past, been
extremely averse to Christianity, now behaved soberly, and some others
laughed and mocked. However the word of God fell with such weight and power,
that sundry seemed to be stunned, and expressed a willingness to “hear
me again of these matters.”
Afterwards
prayed with, and made an address to the white people present, and could
not but observe some visible effects of the word, such as tears and sobs,
among them. After public worship, spent some time and took pains to convince
those that mocked, of the truth and importance of what I had been insisting
upon; and so endeavoured to awaken their attention to divine truths. And
had reason to think, from what I observed then and afterwards, that my
endeavours took considerable effect upon one of the worst of them.
Those
few Indians then present, who used to be my hearers in these parts, (some
having removed from hence to Crossweeksung,) seemed somewhat kindly disposed
toward, and glad to see me again. They had been so much attacked by some
of the opposing pagans, that they were almost ashamed or afraid to manifest
their friendship.
Feb.
17. After having spent much time in discoursing to the Indians in their
respective houses, I got them together, and repeated and inculcated what
I had before taught them. Afterwards discoursed to them from Acts viii.
5-8. A divine influence seemed to attend the word. Sundry of the Indians
here appeared to be somewhat awakened, and manifested a concern of mind,
by their earnest attention, tears and sobs. My people from Crossweeksung
continued with them day and night, repeating and inculcating the truths
I had taught them: and sometimes prayed and sung psalms among them; discoursing
with each other, in their hearing, of the great things God had done for
them, and for the Indians from whence they came: which seemed (as
my people told me) to take more effect upon them, than when they directed
their discourses immediately to them.
Feb.
18. Preached to an assembly of Irish people near fifteen miles distant
from the Indians.
Feb.
19. Preached to the Indians again, after having spent considerable time
in conversing with them more privately. There appeared a great solemnity,
and some concern and affection, among the Indians belonging to these parts,
as well as a sweet melting among those who came with me.--Divers of the
Indians here seemed to have their prejudices and aversion to Christianity
removed, and appeared well disposed and inclined to hear the word of God.
Feb.
20. Preached to a small assembly of High-Dutch people, who had seldom heard
the gospel preached, and were (some of them at least) very ignorant; but
divers of them have lately been put upon inquiry after the way of salvation,
with some thoughtfulness. They gave wonderful attention, and some of them
were much affected under the word, and afterwards said, (as I was informed,)
that they never had been so much enlightened about the way of salvation
in their whole lives before. They requested me to tarry with them, or come
again and preach to them. And it grieved me that I could not comply with
their request, for I could not but be affected with their circumstances;
they being as “sheep not having a shepherd,” and some of them appearing
under some degree of soul-trouble, standing in peculiar need of the assistance
of an experienced spiritual guide.
Feb.
21. Preached to a number of people, many of them Low-Dutch. Sundry of the
fore-mentioned High-Dutch attended the sermon, though eight or ten
miles distant from their houses.--Divers of the Indians also belonging
to these parts came of their own accord with my people (from Crossweeksung)
to the meeting. And there were two in particular, who, though the last
sabbath they opposed and ridiculed Christianity, now behaved soberly. May
the present encouraging appearance continue.
Feb.
22. Preached to the Indians. They appeared more free from prejudice, and
more cordial to Christianity, than before. And some of them appeared affected
with divine truths.
Lord’s
day, Feb.
23. Preached to the Indians from John vi. 35-37. After public service,
discoursed particularly with sundry of them, and invited them to go down
to Crossweeksung, and tarry there at least for some time; knowing
they would then be free from the scoffs and temptations of the opposing
pagans, as well as in the way of hearing divine truths discoursed
of, both in public and private. And got a promise of some of them, that
they would speedily pay us a visit, and attend some further instructions.
They seemed to be considerably enlightened, and much freed from their prejudices
against Christianity. But it is much to be feared their prejudices will
revive again, unless they could enjoy the means of instruction here, or
be removed where they might be under such advantages, and out of the way
of their pagan acquaintance.
CROSSWEEKSUNG,
in New Jersey, March, 1746.
March
1. Catechised in my ordinary method. Was pleased and refreshed to see them
answer the questions proposed to them with such remarkable readiness, discretion,
and knowledge.--Toward the close of my discourse, divine truths made considerable
impressions upon the audience, and produced tears and sobs in some under
concern; and more especially a sweet and humble melting in sundry that,
I have reason to hope, were truly gracious.
Lord’s
day, March
2. Preached from John xv. 1-6. The assembly appeared not so lively in their
attention as usual, nor so much affected with divine truths in general
as has been common. Some of my people, who went up to the Forks of Delaware
with me, being now returned, were accompanied by two of the Indians belonging
to the Forks, who had promised me a speedy visit. May the Lord meet
with them there. They can scarce go into a house now, but they will
meet with christian conversation, whereby, it is hopeful, they may be both
instructed and awakened.
Discoursed
to the Indians again in the afternoon, and observed among them some liveliness
and engagement in divine service, though not equal to what has often appeared
here.--I know of no assembly of Christians, where there seems to be so
much of the presence of God, where brotherly love so much prevails, and
where I should take so much delight in the public worship of God, in the
general, as in my own congregation: although not more than nine
months ago, they were worshipping devils and dumb idols
under the power of pagan darkness and superstition. Amazing change this!
effected by nothing less than divine power and grace! “This is the doing
of the Lord, and it is justly marvellous in our eyes!”
March
5. Spent some time just at evening in prayer, singing, and discoursing
to my people upon divine things; and observed some agreeable tenderness
and affection among them. Their present situation is so compact and
408
BRAINERD’S JOURNAL.
commodious,
that they are easily and quickly called together with only the sound of
a conk-shell, (a shell like that of a periwinkle,) so that they have frequent
opportunities of attending religious exercises publicly; which seems to
be a great means, under God, of keeping alive the impressions of divine
things in their minds.
March
8. Catechised in the evening. My people answered the questions proposed
to them well. I can perceive their knowledge in religion increases daily.
And what is still more desirable, the divine influence that has been so
remarkable among them appears still to continue in some good measure.
The divine presence seemed to be in the assembly this evening. Some, who
I have good reason to think are Christians indeed, were melted with
a sense of the divine goodness, and their own barrenness and ingratitude,
and seemed to hate themselves, as one of them afterwards expressed
it. Convictions also appeared to be revived in several instances; and divine
truths were attended with such influence upon the assembly in general,
that it might justly be called “an evening of divine power.”
Lord’s
day, March
9. Preached from Luke x. 38-42. The word of God was attended with power
and energy upon the audience. Numbers were affected and concerned to obtain
the one thing needful. And sundry that have given good evidences
of being truly gracious, were much affected with a sense of their want
of spirituality; and saw the need they stood in of growing in grace.
And most that had been under any impressions of divine things in times
past, seemed now to have those impressions revived.
In
the afternoon proposed to have catechised in my usual method. But while
we were engaged in the first prayer in the Indian language, (as usual,)
a great part of the assembly was so much moved, and affected with divine
things, that I thought it seasonable and proper to omit the proposing of
questions for that time, and insist upon the most practical truths. And
accordingly did so; making a further improvement of the passage of Scripture
I discoursed upon in the former part of the day.
There
appeared to be a powerful divine influence in the congregation. Sundry
that I have reason to think are truly pious, were so deeply affected with
a sense of their own barrenness, and their unworthy treatment of
the blessed Redeemer, that they looked on him as pierced by themselves,
and mourned, yea, some of them were in bitterness as for a first-born.--Some
poor awakened sinners also appeared to be in anguish of soul to obtain
an interest in Christ. So that there was a great mourning in the
assembly; many heavy groans, sobs, and tears! and one or two persons newly
come among us, were considerably awakened.
Methinks
it would have refreshed the heart of any who truly love Zion’s interest,
to have been in the midst of this divine influence, and seen the effects
of it upon saints and sinners. The place of divine worship appeared both
solemn and sweet! and was so endeared by a display of the
divine presence and grace, that those who had any relish of divine things,
could not but cry, “How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts!”--After
public worship was over, numbers came to my house, where we sang and discoursed
of divine things: and the presence of God seemed here also to be, in the
midst of us.
While
we were singing, there was one (the woman mentioned in my Journal of Feb.
9) who, I may venture to say, if I may be allowed to say so much of any
person I ever saw, was “filled with joy unspeakable and full of glory,”
and could not but burst forth in prayer and praises to God before us all,
with many tears, crying sometimes in English and sometimes in Indian, “O
blessed Lord, do come, do come! O do take me away, do let me die and go
to Jesus Christ! I am afraid if I live I shall sin again! O do let me die
now! O dear Jesus, do come! I cannot stay, I cannot stay! O how can I live
in this world! do take my soul away from this sinful place! O let me never
sin any more! O what shall I do, what shall I do! dear Jesus, O dear Jesus,”
&c.--In this ecstasy she continued some time, uttering these and such
like expressions incessantly. And the grand argument she used with God
to take her away immediately, was, that “if she lived, she should sin against
him.”
When
she had a little recovered herself, I asked her, if Christ was not now
sweet to her soul? Whereupon, turning to me with tears in her eyes, and
with all the tokens of deep humility I ever saw in any person, she said,
“I have many times heard you speak of the goodness and the sweetness of
Christ, that he was better than all the world. But O! I knew nothing what
you meant, I never believed you! I never believed you! But now I know it
is true!” or words to that effect.--I answered, And do you see enough in
Christ for the greatest of sinners? She replied, “O! enough, enough! for
all the sinners in the world if they would but come.” And when I asked
her, if she could not tell them of the goodness of Christ; turning herself
about to some poor Christless souls who stood by, and were much affected,
she said, “Oh! there is enough in Christ for you, if you would but come!
O strive, strive to give up your hearts to him!” &c. And upon hearing
something of the glory of heaven mentioned, that there was no sin in that
world, &c. she again fell into the same ecstasy of joy, and desire
of Christ’s coming; repeating her former expressions, “O dear Lord, do
let me go! O what shall I do, what shall I do! I want to go to Christ!
I cannot live! O do let me die!” &c.
She
continued in this sweet frame for more than two hours, before she was well
able to get home.--I am very sensible there may be great joys, arising
even to an ecstasy, where there is still no substantial evidence of their
being well-grounded. But in the present case there seemed to be no evidence
wanting, in order to prove this joy to be divine, either in regard of its
preparatives,
attendants, or consequents.
Of
all the persons I have seen under spiritual exercise, I scarce ever saw
one appear more bowed and broken under convictions of sin and misery (or
what is usually called a preparatory work) than this woman. Nor
scarce any who seemed to have a greater acquaintance with her own heart
than she had. She would frequently complain to me of the hardness and rebellion
of her heart. Would tell me, her heart rose and quarrelled with God, when
she thought he would do with her as he pleased, and send her to hell notwithstanding
her prayers, good frames, &c. That her heart was not willing to come
to Christ for salvation, but tried every where else for help.
And
as she seemed to be remarkably sensible of her stubbornness and contrariety
to God, under conviction, so she appeared to be no less remarkably bowed
and reconciled to divine sovereignty before she obtained any relief
or comfort. Something of which I have before noticed in my Journal of Feb.
9. Since which time she has seemed constantly to breathe the spirit and
temper of the new creature: crying after Christ, not through fear of hell
as before, but with strong desires after him as her only satisfying
portion; and has many times wept and sobbed bitterly, because (as
she apprehended) she did not and could not love him.--When I have sometimes
asked her, Why she appeared so sorrowful, and whether it was because she
was afraid of hell? She would answer, “No, I be not distressed about that;
but my heart is so wicked I
cannot love Christ;” and thereupon burst
out into tears.--But although this has been the habitual frame of her mind
for several weeks together, so that the exercise of grace appeared evident
to others, yet she seemed wholly insensible of it herself,
and never had any remarkable comfort and sensible satisfaction till this
evening.
This
sweet and surprising ecstasy appeared to spring from a true spiritual
discovery of the glory, ravishing beauty, and excellency of Christ: and
not from any gross imaginary notions of his human nature; such as
that of seeing him in such a place or posture, as hanging on the
cross, as bleeding, dying, as gently smiling, and the like; which delusions
some have been carried away with. Nor did it rise from sordid, selfish
apprehensions of her having any benefit whatsoever conferred on
her, but from a view of his personal excellency, and transcendent
loveliness, which drew forth those vehement desires of enjoying him she
now manifested, and made her long “to be absent from the body that she
might be present with the Lord.”
The
attendants of this ravishing comfort, were such as abundantly discovered
its spring to be divine, and that it was truly a “joy in the Holy Ghost.”--Now
she viewed
PART
II. A.D. 1745, NOVEMBER-1746, JUNE. 409
divine
truths as living realities; and could say, “I know these things
are so, I feel they are true!”--Now her soul was resigned to the
divine will in the most tender points; so that when I said to her, What
if God should take away your* husband from you, (who was then very sick,)
how do you think you could bear that? She replied, “He belongs to God,
and not to me; he may do with him just what he pleases.” Now she
had the most tender sense of the evil of sin, and discovered the utmost
aversion to it; longing to die that she might be delivered from it. Now
she could freely trust her all with God for time and eternity. And
when I questioned her, how she could be willing to die, and leave her little
infant; and what she thought would become of it in that case? She answered,
“God will take care of it. It belongs to him, he will take care of it.”
Now she appeared to have the most humbling sense of her own meanness
and unworthiness, her weakness and inability to preserve herself from sin,
and to persevere in the way of holiness, crying, “If I live, I shall sin.”
And I then thought I had never seen such an appearance of ecstasy
and humility meeting in any one person in all my life before.
The
consequents of this joy are no less desirable and satisfactory than
its attendants. She since appears to be a most tender, broken-hearted,
affectionate, devout, and humble Christian, as exemplary in life and conversation
as any person in my congregation. May she still “grow in grace, and in
the knowledge of Christ.”
March
10. Toward night the Indians met together of their own accord, and sang,
prayed, and discoursed of divine things among themselves. At which time
there was much affection among them. Some who are hopefully gracious, appeared
to be melted with divine things. And some others seemed much concerned
for their souls. Perceiving their engagement and affection in religious
exercises, I went among them, and prayed, and gave a word of exhortation;
and observed two or three somewhat affected and concerned, who scarce ever
appeared to be under any religious impressions before. It seemed to be
a day and evening of divine power. Numbers retained the warm impressions
of divine things that had been made upon their minds the day before.
March
14. Was visited by a considerable number of my people, and spent some time
in religious exercises with them.
March
15. In the evening catechised. My people answered the questions put to
them with surprising readiness and judgment. There appeared some warmth
and feeling sense of divine things among those, who, I have reason to hope,
are real Christians, while I was discoursing upon “peace of conscience,
and joy in the Holy Ghost.” These seemed quickened and enlivened
in divine service, though there was not so much appearance of concern among
those I have reason to think in a Christless state.
Lord’s
day, March
16. Preached to my congregation from Heb. ii. 1-3. Divine truths seemed
to have some considerable influence upon many of the hearers; and produced
many tears, as well as heavy sighs and sobs, among both those who have
given evidences of being real Christians, and others also. And the impressions
made upon the audience appeared in general deep and heart-affecting
not superficial, noisy, and affected.
Toward
night discoursed again on the great salvation. The word was again
attended with some power upon the audience. Numbers wept affectionately,
and to appearance, unfeignedly; so that the Spirit of God seemed
to be moving upon the face of the assembly.--Baptized the woman
particularly mentioned in my Journal of last Lord’s day; who now, as well
as then, appeared to be in a devout, humble, and excellent frame of mind.
My
house being thronged with my people in the evening, I spent the time in
religious exercises with them till my nature was almost spent. They are
so unwearied in religious exercises, and unsatiable in their thirsting
after christian knowledge, that I can sometimes scarce avoid labouring
so as greatly to exhaust my strength and spirits.
March
19. Sundry of the persons that went with me to the Forks of Delaware
in February last, having been detained there by the dangerous illness
of one of their company, returned home but this day. Whereupon my people
generally met together of their own accord, in order to spend some time
in religious exercises; and especially to give thanks to God for his preserving
goodness to those who had been absent from them for several weeks, and
recovering mercy to him who had been sick; and that he had now returned
them all in safety. I being then absent, they desired my schoolmaster to
assist them in carrying on their religious solemnity; who tells me they
appeared engaged and affectionate in repeated prayer, singing, &c.
March
22. Catechised in my usual method in the evening.--My people answered questions
to my great satisfaction. There appeared nothing very remarkable in the
assembly, considering what has been common among us. Although I may justly
say, the strict attention, the tenderness and affection, the many tears
and heart-affecting sobs, appearing in numbers in the assembly, would have
been very remarkable, were it not that God has made these things
common with us, and even with strangers soon after their
coming among us, from time to time. I am far from thinking that every appearance,
and particular instance of affection, that has been among us, has been
truly genuine, and purely from a divine influence. I am sensible
of the contrary; and doubt not but that there has been some corrupt
mixture, some chaff as well as wheat, especially since religious concern
became so common and prevalent here.
Lord’s
day, March
23. There being about fifteen strangers, adult person, come among
us in the week past--divers of whom had never been in any religious
meeting till now--I thought it proper to discourse this day in a manner
peculiarly suited to their circumstances and capacities: and accordingly
attempted it from Hos. xiii. 9. “O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself,”
&c. In the forenoon I opened, in the plainest manner I could, man’s
apostasy and ruined state, after having spoken some things respecting the
being and perfections of God, and his creation of man in a state of uprightness
and happiness. In the afternoon endeavoured to open the glorious provision
God has made for the redemption of apostate creatures, by giving his own
dear Son to suffer for them, and satisfy divine justice on their behalf.--There
was not that affection and concern in the assembly that has been common
among us, although there was a desirable attention appearing in general,
and even in most of the strangers.
Near
sun-set I felt an uncommon concern upon my mind, especially for the poor
strangers, that God had so much withheld his presence, and the powerful
influence of his Spirit, from the assembly in the exercises of the day:
and thereby denied them of that matter of conviction which I hoped they
might have had. And in this frame I visited sundry houses, and discoursed
with some concern and affection to divers persons particularly; but without
much appearance of success, till I came to a house where divers of the
strangers were; and there the solemn truths I discoursed of appeared to
take effect, first upon some children, then upon divers adult
persons that had been somewhat awakened before, and afterwards upon several
of the pagan strangers.
I
continued my discourse, with some fervency, till almost every one in the
house was melted into tears; and divers wept aloud, and appeared earnestly
concerned to obtain an interest in Christ. Upon this, numbers soon gathered
from all the houses round about, and so thronged the place that we were
obliged to remove to the house where we usually meet for public worship.
And the congregation gathering immediately, and many appeared remarkably
affected, I discoursed some time from Luke xix. 10. “For the Son of man
is come to seek,” &c. Endeavouring to open the mercy, compassion, and
concern of Christ for lost,
helpless, and undone sinners.--There
was much visible concern and affection in the assembly; and I doubt not
but that a divine influence accompanied what was spoken to the hearts of
many. There were five or six of the strangers, men and women, who
appeared to be
*
The man particularly mentioned in my Journal of January 19.
410
BRAINERD’S JOURNAL.
considerably
awakened. And in particular one very rugged young man, who seemed as if
nothing would move him; was now brought to tremble like the jailer, and
weep for a long time.
The
pagans that were awakened seemed at once to put off their savage
roughness and pagan manners, and became sociable, orderly, and humane
in their carriage. When they first came, I exhorted my religious people
to take pains with them (as they had done with other strangers from time
to time) to instruct them in Christianity. But when some of them attempted
something of that nature, the strangers would soon rise up and walk to
other houses, in order to avoid the hearing of such discourses. Whereupon
some of the serious persons agreed to disperse themselves into the several
parts of the settlement. So that wherever the strangers went, they
met with some instructive discourse, and warm addresses respecting their
souls’ concern.--But now there was no need of using policy in order
to get an opportunity of conversing with some of them about their spiritual
concerns; for they were so far touched with a sense of their perishing
state, as made them tamely yield to the closest addresses
that were made them, respecting their sin and misery, their need of an
acquaintance with, and interest in, the great Redeemer.
March
24. Numbered the Indians, to see how many souls God had gathered together
here, since my coming into these parts; and found there was now about a
hundred and thirty persons together, old and young. Sundry of those
that are my stated hearers, perhaps to the number of fifteen or
twenty, were absent at this season. So that if all had been together,
the number would now have been very considerable: especially considering
how few were together at my first coming into these parts, the whole
number not amounting to ten persons at that time.
My
people went out this day upon the design of clearing some of their land,
above fifteen miles distant from this settlement, in order to their settling
there in a compact form; where they might be under advantages of attending
the public worship of God, of having their children taught in a school,
and at the same time have a conveniency for planting, &c.; their land
in the place of our present residence being of little or no value
for that purpose. And the design of their settling thus in a body, and
cultivating their lands, (which they have done very little in their pagan
state,) being of such necessity and importance to their religious interest,
as well as worldly comfort, I thought it proper to call them together,
and show them the duty of labouring with faithfulness and industry: and
that they must not now “be slothful in business,” as they had ever been
in their pagan state. I endeavoured to press the importance of their being
laborious, diligent, and vigorous in the prosecution of their business,
especially at the present juncture, (the season of planting being now near,)
in order to their being in a capacity of living together, and enjoying
the means of grace and instruction. And having given them directions for
their work, which they very much wanted, as well as for their behaviour
in divers respects, I explained, sang, and endeavoured to inculcate upon
them Ps. cxxvii. common metre, Dr. Watts’s version. And having recommended
them, and the design of their going forth, to God, by prayer with them,
I dismissed them to their business.
In
the evening read and expounded to those of my people who were yet at home,
and the strangers newly come, the substance of the third chapter
of the Acts. Numbers seemed to melt under the word, especially while I
was discoursing upon ver. 19. “Repent ye therefore, and be converted,”
&c. Sundry of the strangers also were affected. When I asked
them afterwards, whether they did not now feel that their hearts
were wicked, as I had taught them? One replied, “Yes, she felt it
now.” Although before she came here--upon hearing that I taught the Indians
their hearts were all bad by nature, and needed to be changed and made
good by the power of God--she had said, “Her heart was not wicked, and
she never had done any thing that was bad in her life.” And this
indeed seems to be the case with them, I think, universally in their pagan
state. They seem to have no consciousness of sin and guilt, unless
they can charge themselves with some gross acts of sin contrary
to the commands of the second table.
March
27. Discoursed to a number of my people in one of their houses in a more
private manner. Inquired particularly into their spiritual states, in order
to see what impressions of a religious nature they were under. Laid before
them the marks and tokens of a regenerate, as well as unregenerate,
state: and endeavoured to suit and direct my discourse to them severally,
according as I apprehended their states to be.--There was a considerable
number gathered together before I finished my discourse; and divers seemed
much affected, while I was urging the necessity and infinite importance
of getting into a renewed state.--I find particular and close dealing with
souls in private, is often very successful.
March
29. In the evening catechised as usual upon Saturday.--Treated upon the
“benefits which believers receive from Christ at death.”--The questions
were answered with great readiness and propriety. And those who, I have
reason to think, are the dear people of God, were sweetly melted almost
in general. There appeared such a liveliness and vigour in their attendance
upon the word of God, and such eagerness to be made partakers of the benefits
then mentioned, that they seemed to be not only “looking for, but hasting
to, the coming of the day of God.” Divine truths seemed to distil upon
the audience with a gentle but melting efficacy, as the refreshing “showers
upon the new-mown grass.” The assembly in general, as well as those who
appear truly religious, were affected with some brief account of the blessedness
of the godly at death: and most then discovered an affectionate
inclination to cry, “Let me die the death of the righteous,” &c. although
many were not duly engaged to obtain the change of heart that is necessary
in order to that blessed end.
Lord’s
day, March
30. Discoursed from Matt. xxv. 31-40. There was a very considerable moving
and affectionate melting in the assembly. I hope there were some real,
deep, and abiding impressions of divine things made upon the minds of many.
There was one aged man, newly come among us, who appeared to be considerably
awakened, that never was touched with any concern for his soul before.--In
the evening catechised. There was not that tenderness and melting engagement
among God’s people that appeared the evening before, and many other times.
They answered the questions distinctly and well, and were devout
and attentive in divine service.
March
31. Called my people together, as I had done the Monday morning before,
and discoursed to them again on the necessity and importance of their labouring
industriously, in order to their living together, and enjoying the means
of grace, &c. And having engaged in solemn prayer to God among them,
for a blessing upon their attempts, I dismissed them to their work.--Numbers
of them, both men and women, seemed to offer themselves willingly to this
service; and some appeared affectionately concerned that God might go with
them, and begin their little town for them; that by his blessing
it might be a place comfortable for them and theirs, in regard both of
procuring the necessaries of life, and of attending the worship of God.
April
5. Catechised towards evening. There appeared to be some affection and
fervent engagement in divine service through the assembly in general; especially
towards the conclusion of my discourse.--After public worship, a number
of those I have reason to think are truly religious, came to my house,
and seemed eager for some further entertainment upon divine things. And
while I was conversing with them about their spiritual exercises, observing
to them, that God’s work in the hearts of all his children was, for substance,
the same; and that their trials and temptations were also alike; and showing
the obligations such were under to love one another in a
peculiar manner; they seemed to be melted into tenderness and affection
toward each other: and I thought that particular token of their being the
disciples of Christ, viz. of their “having love one toward
another,” had scarce ever appeared more evident than at this time.
Lord’s
day, April
6. Preached from Matt. vii. 21-23. “Not every one that saith unto me,”
&c. There were
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II. A.D. 1745, NOVEMBER-1746, JUNE. 411
considerable
effects of the word visible in the audience, and such as were very
desirable: an earnest attention, a great solemnity, many tears and heavy
sighs, which were modestly suppressed in a considerable measure, and appeared
unaffected, and without any indecent commotion of the passions. Divers
of the religious people were put upon serious and close examination of
their spiritual states, by hearing that, “not every one that saith to Christ,
Lord, shall enter into his kingdom.” And some of them expressed fears lest
they had deceived themselves, and taken up a false hope, because they found
they had done so little of the “will of his Father who is in heaven.”--There
was one man brought under very great and pressing concern for his soul;
which appeared more especially after his retirement from public
worship. And that which, he says, gave him his great uneasiness, was, not
so much any particular sin, as that he had never done the will of God at
all, but had sinned continually, and so had no claim to the kingdom
of heaven.
In
the afternoon I opened to them the discipline of Christ in his church,
and the method in which offenders are to be dealt with. At which
time the religious people were much affected, especially when they heard,
that the offender continuing obstinate, must finally be esteemed and treated
“as a heathen man,” as a pagan, that has no part nor lot among God’s visible
people. Of this they seemed to have the most awful apprehensions;
a state of heathenism, out of which they were so lately brought, appearing
very dreadful to them.--After public worship I visited sundry houses to
see how they spent the remainder of the sabbath, and to treat with them
solemnly on the great concerns of their souls: and the Lord seemed to smile
upon my private endeavours, and to make these particular and personal
addresses more effectual upon some, than my public discourses.
April
7. Discoursed to my people in the evening from 1 Cor. xi. 23-26. “For I
have received of the Lord,” &c. And endeavoured to open to them the
institution, nature, and ends of the Lord’s supper, as well as the qualifications
and preparations necessary to the right participation of that ordinance.
Sundry persons appeared much affected with the love of Christ manifested
in his making this provision for the comfort of his people, at a season
when himself was just entering upon his sharpest sufferings.
Lord’s
day, April
20. Discoursed both forenoon and afternoon from Luke xxiv. explaining most
of the chapter, and making remarks upon it. There was a desirable attention
in the audience, though there was not so much appearance of affection and
tenderness among them as has been usual.--Our meeting was very full, there
being sundry strangers present, who had never been with us before.
In
the evening catechised. My people answered the questions proposed to them
readily and distinctly; and I could perceive they advanced in their knowledge
of the principles of Christianity. There appeared an affectionate
melting in the assembly at this time. Sundry who, I trust, are truly religious,
were refreshed and quickened, and seemed by their discourse and behaviour,
after public worship, to have their “hearts knit together in love.” This
was a sweet and blessed season, like many others that my poor people have
been favoured with in months past. God has caused this little fleece
to be repeatedly wet with the blessed dews of his divine grace,
while all the earth around has been comparatively dry.
April
25. Of late I apprehended that a number of persons in my congregation were
proper subjects of the ordinance of the Lord’s supper, and that
it might be seasonable speedily to administer it to them: and having
taken advice of some of the reverend correspondents in this solemn
affair; I accordingly proposed and appointed the next Lord’s day, with
leave of Divine Providence, for the administration of this ordinance; and
this day, as preparatory thereto, was set apart for solemn fasting
and prayer. The design of this preparatory solemnity was to implore
the blessing of God upon our renewing covenant with him and with one another,
to walk together in the fear of God, in love and christian fellowship:
and to entreat that his presence might be with us in our designed approach
to his table; as well as to humble ourselves before God on account of the
apparent withdrawment (at least in a measure) of that blessed influence
which has been so prevalent upon persons of all ages among us; as also
on account of the rising appearance of carelessness, vanity, and vice among
some, who, some time since, appeared to be touched and affected with divine
truths, and brought to some sensibility of their miserable and perishing
state by nature. And that we might also importunately pray for the peaceable
settlement of the Indians together in a body, that they might be
a commodious congregation for the worship of God; and that God would blast
and defeat all the attempts that were or might be made against that pious
design.*
The
solemnity was observed and seriously attended, not only by those who proposed
to communicate at the Lord’s table, but by the whole congregation universally.
In the former part of the day, I endeavoured to open to my people the nature
and design of a fast, as I had attempted more briefly to do before,
and to instruct them in the duties of such a solemnity. In the afternoon,
I insisted upon the special reasons there were for our engaging in these
solemn exercises at this time; both in regard of the need we stood in of
divine assistance, in order to a due preparation for that sacred ordinance
some of us were proposing, with leave of Divine Providence, speedily to
attend upon; and also in respect of the manifest decline of God’s
work here, as to the effectual conviction and conversion of sinners, there
having been few of late deeply awakened out of a state of security. The
worship of God was attended with great solemnity and reverence, with much
tenderness and many tears, by those who appear to be truly religious: and
there was some appearance of divine power upon those who had been awakened
some time before, and who were still under concern.
After
repeated prayer and attendance upon the word of God, I proposed to the
religious people, with as much brevity and plainness as I could, the substance
of the doctrine of the christian faith, as I had formerly
done, previous to their baptism, and had their renewed cheerful
assent to it. I then led them to a solemn renewal of their baptismal
covenant, wherein they had explicitly and publicly given up themselves
to God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, avouching him to be their God;
and at the same time renouncing their heathenish vanities, their idolatrous
and superstitious practices, and solemnly engaging to take the word
of God, so far as it was, or might be, made known to them, for the rule
of their lives, promising to walk together in love, to watch over themselves,
and one another; to lead lives of seriousness and devotion, and to discharge
the relative duties incumbent upon them respectively, &c. This
solemn transaction was attended with much gravity and seriousness; and
at the same time with utmost readiness, freedom, and cheerfulness; and
a religious union and harmony of soul seemed to crown the whole solemnity.
I could not but think in the evening, that there had been manifest tokens
of the divine presence with us in all the several services of the day;
though it was also manifest there was not that concern among Christless
souls that has often appeared here.
April
26. Toward noon prayed with a dying child, and gave a word of exhortation
to the by-standers to prepare for death, which seemed to take effect upon
some.--In the afternoon discoursed to my people from Matthew xxvi. 26-30.
of the author, the nature, and design of the Lord’s
supper; and endeavoured to point out the worthy receivers of that
ordinance.
The
religious people were affected, and even melted with divine truths,--with
a view of the dying love of Christ. Sundry others who had been for some
months under convictions of their perishing state, appeared now to be much
moved with concern, and afresh engaged in seeking after an interest in
Christ; although I cannot say “the word of God” appeared “so quick and
powerful,” so sharp
*
There being at this time a terrible clamour raised against the Indians
in various places in the country, and insinuations as though I was training
them up to cut people’s throats. Numbers wishing to have them banished
out of these parts, and some giving out great words, in order to fright
and deter them from settling upon the best and most convenient track of
their own lands, threatening to molest and trouble them in the law, pretending
a claim to these lands themselves, although never purchased of the Indians.
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and
piercing to the assembly, as it had sometimes formerly done.--Baptized
two adult persons, both serious and exemplary in their lives, and,
I hope, truly religious. One of them was the man particularly mentioned
in my Journal of the 6th instant; who, although he was then greatly distressed,
because “he had never done the will of God,” has since, it is hoped, obtained
spiritual comfort upon good grounds.
In
the evening I catechised those that were designed to partake of the Lord’s
supper the next day, upon the institution, nature, and end of that ordinance;
and had abundant satisfaction respecting their doctrinal knowledge and
fitness in that respect for an attendance upon it. They likewise
appeared, in general, to have an affecting sense of the solemnity of this
sacred ordinance, and to be humbled under a sense of their own unworthiness
to approach to God in it; and to be earnestly concerned that they might
be duly prepared for an attendance upon it. Their hearts were full of love
one toward another, and that was the frame of mind they seemed much
concerned to maintain, and bring to the Lord’s table with them.--In the
singing and prayer, after catechising, there appeared an agreeable tenderness
and melting among them, and such tokens of brotherly love and affection,
that would even constrain one to say, “Lord, it is good to be here;” it
is good to dwell where such a heavenly influence distils.
Lord’s
day, April
27. Preached from Tit. ii. 14. “Who gave himself for us,” &c.--The
word of God at this time was attended with some appearance of divine power
upon the assembly; so that the attention and gravity of the audience was
remarkable; and especially towards the conclusion of the exercise,
divers persons were much affected.
Administered
the sacrament of the Lord’s supper to twenty-three persons
of the Indians, (the number of men and women being near equal,) divers
others, to the number of five or six, being now absent at
the Forks of Delaware, who would otherwise have communicated with us.--The
ordinance was attended with great solemnity, and with a most desirable
tenderness and affection. And it was remarkable, that in the season of
the performance of the sacramental actions, especially in the distribution
of the bread, they seemed to be affected in a most lively manner,
as if “Christ had been” really “crucified before them.” And the words of
the institution, when repeated and enlarged upon in the season of the administration,
seemed to meet with the same reception, to be entertained with the same
full and firm belief and affectionate engagement of soul, as
if the Lord Jesus Christ himself had been present, and had personally
spoken to them. The affections of the communicants, although considerably
raised, were notwithstanding agreeably regulated, and kept within
proper bounds. So that there was a sweet, gentle, and affectionate melting,
without any indecent or boisterous commotion of the passions.
Having
rested some time after the administration of the sacrament, (being
extremely tired with the necessary prolixity of the work,) I walked from
house to house, and conversed particularly with most of the communicants,
and found they had been almost universally refreshed at the Lord’s table
“as with new wine.” And never did I see such an appearance of christian
love among any people in all my life. It was so remarkable, that one
might well have cried with an agreeable surprise, “Behold how they love
one another!” I think there could be no greater tokens of mutual affection
among the people of God in the early days of Christianity, than what now
appeared here. The sight was so desirable, and so well becoming
the gospel, that nothing less could be said of it, than that it was “the
doing of the Lord,” the genuine operations of him “who is love!”
Toward
night discoursed again on the forementioned Tit. ii. 14. and insisted on
the immediate end and design of Christ’s death, viz. “That he might
redeem his people from all iniquity,” &c. This appeared to be a season
of divine power among us. The religious people were much refreshed, and
seemed remarkably tender and affectionate, full of love, joy, peace, and
desirous of being completely “redeemed from all iniquity;” so that some
of them afterwards told me “they had never felt the like before.”--Convictions
also appeared to be revived in many instances; and divers persons were
awakened whom I had never observed under any religious impressions before.
Such
was the influence that attended our assembly, and so unspeakably desirable
the frame of mind that many enjoyed in the divine service, that it seemed
almost grievous to conclude the public worship. And the congregation when
dismissed, although it was then almost dark, appeared loth to leave the
place and employments that had been rendered so dear to them by
the benefits enjoyed, while a blessed quickening influence distilled upon
them.--And upon the whole, I must say, I had great satisfaction relative
to the administration of this ordinance in divers respects. I have abundant
reason to think, that those who came to the Lord’s table, had a good degree
of doctrinal knowledge of the nature and design of
the ordinance; and that they acted with understanding in what they
did.
In
the preparatory services I found, I may justly say, uncommon freedom in
opening to their understandings and capacities, the covenant of grace,
and in showing them the nature of this ordinance as a seal
of that covenant. Although many of them knew of no such thing as a seal
before my coming among them, or at least of the use and design of it in
the common affairs of life. They were likewise thoroughly sensible that
it was no more than a seal or sign, and not the real
body and blood of Christ. That it was designed for the refreshment and
edification of the soul, and not for the feasting of the
body. They were also acquainted with the end of the ordinance,
that they were therein called to commemorate the dying love of Christ,
&c.
And
this competency of doctrinal knowledge, together with their grave and decent
attendance upon the ordinance, their affectionate melting under it, and
the sweet and christian frame of mind they discovered consequent upon it
gave me great satisfaction respecting my administration of it to them.
And O what a sweet and blessed season was this! God himself, I am persuaded,
was in the midst of his people, attending his own ordinances. And I doubt
not but many in the conclusion of the day, could say, with their whole
hearts, “Verily, a day thus spent in God’s house, is better than a thousand
elsewhere.” There seemed to be but one heart among the pious people.
The sweet union, harmony, and endearing love and tenderness subsisting
among them, was, I thought, the most lively emblem of the heavenly world
I had ever seen.
April
28. Concluded the sacramental solemnity with a discourse upon John xiv.
15. “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” At which time there appeared
a very agreeable tenderness in the audience in general, but especially
in the communicants. O how free, how engaged, and affectionate did
these appear in the service of God! they seemed willing to have
their “ears bored to the door-posts of God’s house,” and to be his servants
for ever.
Observing
numbers in this excellent frame, and the assembly in general affected,
and that by a divine influence, I thought it proper to improve this advantageous
season, as Hezekiah did the desirable season of his great passover,
(2 Chron. xxxi.) in order to promote the blessed reformation begun among
them; and to engage those that appeared serious and religious to persevere
therein; and accordingly proposed to them, that they should renewedly
enter into covenant before God, that they would watch over themselves and
one another, lest they should dishonour the name of Christ by falling into
sinful and unbecoming practices. And especially that they would watch against
the sin of drunkenness, (the sin that easily besets them,) and the
temptations leading thereto; as well as the appearance of evil in that
respect. They cheerfully complied with the proposal, and explicitly
joined in that covenant; whereupon I proceeded in the most solemn manner
I was capable of, to call God to witness respecting their sacred
engagement; and minded them of the greatness of the guilt they would contract
to themselves in the violation of it; as well as observed to them, that
God would be a terrible witness against those who should presume
to do so, in the “great and notable day of the Lord.”
It
was a season of amazing solemnity! and a divine awe appeared upon
the face of the whole assembly in this
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transaction!
Affectionate sobs, sighs, and tears, were now frequent in the audience:
and I doubt not but that many silent cries were then sent up to the fountain
of grace, for supplies of grace sufficient for the fulfilment of these
solemn engagements. Baptized six children this day.
Lord’s
day, May
4. My people being now removed to their lands, mentioned in my Journal
of March 24, where they were then, and have since been, making provision
for compact settlement, in order to their more convenient enjoyment
of the gospel, and other means of instruction, as well as the comforts
of life; I this day visited them, (being now obliged to board with an English
family at some distance from them,) and preached to them in the forenoon
from Mark iv. 5. “And some fell on stony ground,” &c. Endeavoured to
show them the reason there was to fear lest many promising appearances
and hopeful beginnings in religion, might prove abortive, like the “seed
dropped upon stony places.”
In
the afternoon discoursed upon Rom. viii. 9. “Now if any man have not the
Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” I have reason to think this discourse
was peculiarly seasonable, and that it had a good effect upon some of the
hearers.--Spent some hours afterwards in private conferences with my people,
and laboured to regulate some things I apprehended amiss among some of
them.
May
5. Visited my people again, and took care of their worldly concerns,
giving them directions relating to their business.--I daily discover more
and more of what importance it is like to be to their religious
interests, that they become laborious and industrious, acquainted with
the affairs of husbandry, and able, in a good measure, to raise
the necessaries and comforts of life within themselves; for their
present method of living greatly exposes them to temptations of various
kinds.
May
9. Preached from John v. 40. “And ye will not come to me,” &c. in the
open wilderness; the Indians having as yet no house for public worship
in this place, nor scarce any shelters for themselves. Divine truths
made considerable impressions upon the audience, and it was a season of
solemnity, tenderness, and affection.
Baptized
one man this day, (the conjurer, murderer, &c. mentioned in my Journal
of August 8, 1745, and February 1, 1746,) who appears to be such a remarkable
instance of divine grace, that I cannot omit some brief account of him
here. He lived near, and sometimes attended my meeting in, the Forks
of Delaware for more than a year together; but was, like many others
of them, extremely attached to strong drink, and seemed to be no ways reformed
by the means I used with them for their instruction and conversion. At
this time he likewise murdered a likely young Indian; which threw
him into some kind of horror and desperation, so that he
kept at a distance from me, and refused to hear me preach for several months
together, till I had an opportunity of conversing freely with him, and
giving him encouragement, that his sin might be forgiven for Christ’s sake.
After which he again attended my meeting some times.
But
that which was the worst of all his conduct, was his conjuration.
He was one of them who are sometimes called powows among the Indians:
and notwithstanding his frequent attendance upon my preaching, he still
followed his old charms and juggling tricks, “giving out that himself
was some great one, and to him they gave heed,” supposing him to be possessed
of a great power. So that when I have instructed them respecting
the miracles wrought by Christ in healing the sick, &c. and
mentioned them as evidences of his divine mission, and the truth
of his doctrines, they have quickly observed the wonders of that kind which
this man had performed by his magic charms. Whence they had a high
opinion of him, and his superstitious notions, which seemed to be a fatal
obstruction to some of them in regard of their receiving the gospel. And
I have often thought it would be a great favour to the design of gospellizing
these Indians, if God would take that wretch out of the world; for I had
scarce any hope of his ever coming to good. But God, “whose thoughts are
not as man’s thoughts,” has been pleased to take a much more desirable
method with him; a method agreeable to his own merciful nature, and, I
trust, advantageous to his own interest among the Indians, as well as effectual
to the salvation of this poor soul. To God be the glory of it.
The
first genuine concern for his soul that ever appeared in him, was excited
by seeing my interpreter and his wife baptized at the Forks of Delaware,
July 21, 1745. Which so prevailed upon him, that with the invitation of
an Indian, who was a friend to Christianity, he followed me down to Crossweeksung
in the beginning of August following, in order to hear me preach, and there
continued for several weeks in the season of the most remarkable and powerful
awakening among the Indians; at which time he was more effectually awakened,
and brought under great concern for his soul. And then, he says, upon his
“feeling the word of God in his heart,” as he expresses it, his spirit
of conjuration left him entirely; that he had no more power of that nature
since, than any other man living. And declares that he does not now so
much as know how he used to charm and conjure; and that he
could not do any thing of that nature if he was never so desirous of it.
He
continued under convictions of his sinful and perishing state, and a considerable
degree of concern for his soul, all the fall and former part of the winter
past, but was not so deeply exercised till some time in January; and then
the word of God took such hold upon him, that he was brought into great
distress, and knew not what to do, nor where to turn himself.--He then
told me, that when he used to hear me preach from time to time in the fall
of the year, my preaching pricked his heart and made him very uneasy,
but did not bring him to so great distress, because he still hoped
he could do something for his own relief: but now, he said, I drove
him up into “such a sharp corner,” that he had no way to turn, and could
not avoid being in distress.
He
continued constantly under the heavy burden and pressure of a wounded
spirit, till at length he was brought into the acute anguish and utmost
agony of soul, mentioned in my Journal of Feb. 1, which continued
that night, and part of the next day.--After this, he was brought to the
utmost calmness and composure of mind, his trembling and heavy burden was
removed, and he appeared perfectly sedate; although he had, to his apprehensions,
scarce any hope of salvation.
I
observed him to appear remarkably composed, and thereupon asked him how
he did? He replied, “It is done, it is done, it is all done now.” I asked
him what he meant? He answered, “I can never do any more to save myself;
it is all done for ever, I can do no more.” I queried with him, whether
he could not do a little more rather than to go to hell. He replied,
“My heart is dead, I can never help myself.” I asked him, what he thought
would become of him then? He answered, “I must go to hell.” I asked him
if he thought it was right that God should send him to hell? He replied,
“O it is right. The devil has been in me ever since I was born.” I asked
him if he felt this when he was in such great distress the evening before?
He answered, “No, I did not then think it was right. I thought God would
send me to hell, and that I was then dropping into it; but my heart quarrelled
with God, and would not say it was right he should send me there.
But now I know it is right, for I have always served the devil, and my
heart has no goodness in it now, but is as bad as ever it was,” &c.--I
thought I had scarce ever seen any person more effectually brought off
from a dependence upon his own contrivances and endeavours for salvation,
or more apparently to lie at the foot of sovereign mercy, than this
man now did under these views of things.
In
this frame of mind he continued for several days, passing sentence of condemnation
upon himself, and constantly owning, that it would be right he should be
damned, and that he expected this would be his portion for the greatness
of his sins. And yet it was plain he had a secret hope of mercy, though
imperceptible to himself, which kept him not only from despair, but from
any pressing distress: so that instead of being sad and dejected, his very
countenance appeared pleasant and agreeable.
While
he was in this frame, he sundry times asked me “When I would preach again?”
and seemed desirous to hear the word of God every day. I asked him why
he
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wanted
to hear me preach, seeing “his heart was dead, and all was done?” That
“he could never help himself, and expected that he must go to hell?” He
replied, “I love to hear you speak about Christ for all.” I added, But
what good will that do you, if you must go to hell at last?--using now
his own language with him; having before, from time to time, laboured in
the best manner I could, to represent to him the excellency of Christ,
his all-sufficiency and willingness to save lost sinners, and persons just
in his case; although to no purpose, as to yielding him any special comfort.--He
answered, “I would have others come to Christ, if I must go to hell myself.”--It
was remarkable, that he seemed to have a great love to the people of God,
and nothing affected him so much as the thoughts of being separated from
them. This seemed to be a very dreadful part of the hell to which he thought
himself doomed. It was likewise remarkable, that in this season he was
most diligent in the use of all means for his soul’s salvation; although
he had the clearest view of the insufficiency of means to afford
him help. And would frequently say, “That all he did signified nothing
at all;” and yet was never more constant in doing, attending secret and
family prayer daily, and surprisingly diligent and attentive in hearing
the word of God: so that he neither despaired of mercy, nor yet presumed
to hope upon his own doings, but used means because appointed of God in
order to salvation; and because he would wait upon God in his own way.
After
he had continued in this frame of mind more than a week, while I
was discoursing publicly he seemed to have a lively soul-refreshing view
of the excellency of Christ, and the way of salvation by him, which melted
him into tears, and filled him with admiration, comfort, satisfaction,
and praise to God. Since then he has appeared to be an humble, devout,
and affectionate Christian; serious and exemplary in his conversation and
behaviour, frequently complaining of his barrenness, his want of spiritual
warmth, life, and activity, and yet frequently favoured with quickening
and refreshing influences. And in all respects, so far as I am capable
to judge, he bears the marks and characters of one “created anew in Christ
Jesus to good works.”
His
zeal for the cause of God was pleasing to me when he was with me at the
Forks of Delaware in February last. There being an old Indian at
the place where I preached, who threatened to bewitch me and my
religious people who accompanied me there; this man presently challenged
him to do his worst, telling him that himself had been as great a conjurer
as he, and that notwithstanding, as soon as he felt that word in his heart
which these people loved, (meaning the word of God,) his power of conjuring
immediately left him.--And so it would you, said he, if you did but once
feel it in your heart; and you have no power to hurt them, nor so much
as to touch one of them, &c.--So that I may conclude my account of
him by observing, (in allusion to what was said of St. Paul,) that he now
zealously defends, and practically “preaches, the faith which he once destroyed,”
or at least was instrumental of obstructing. May God have the glory
of the amazing change he has wrought in him!
Lord’s
Day, May
18. Discoursed both parts of the day from Rev. iii. 20. “Behold, I stand
at the door,” &c. There appeared some affectionate melting towards
the conclusion of the forenoon exercise, and one or two instances of fresh
awakening. In the intermission of public worship, I took occasion to discourse
to numbers in a more private way, on the kindness and patience
of the blessed Redeemer in standing and knocking, in continuing
his gracious calls to sinners, who had long neglected and abused his grace;
which seemed to take some effect upon sundry.
In
the afternoon divine truths were attended with solemnity, and with some
tears, although there was not that powerful, awakening, and quickening
influence, which in times past has been common in our assemblies. The appearance
of the audience under divine truths was comparatively discouraging; and
I was ready to fear that God was about to withdraw the blessed influence
of his Spirit from us.
May
19. Visited and preached to my people from Acts xx. 18, 19. “And when they
were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day,” &c.
and endeavoured to rectify their notions about religious affections;
showing them, on the one hand, the desirableness of religious
affection, tenderness, and fervent engagement in the worship and service
of God, when such affection flows from a true spiritual discovery
of divine glories, from a justly affecting sense of the transcendent excellency
and perfections of the blessed God,--a view of the glory and loveliness
of the great Redeemer: and that such views of divine things will naturally
excite us to “serve the Lord with many tears,” with much affection and
fervency, and yet “with all humility of mind:”--And, on the other hand,
observing the sinfulness of seeking after high affections immediately,
and for their own sakes, that is, of making them the object of our eye
and heart, is nextly and principally set upon, when the glory
of God ought to be so. Showed them that if the heart be directly
and chiefly fixed on God, and the soul engaged to glorify him, some
degree of religious affection will be the effect and attendant of it. But
to seek after affection directly and chiefly, to have the
heart principally set upon that, is to place it in the room
of God and his glory. If it be sought, that others may take notice and
admire us for our spirituality and forwardness in religion, it is then
abominable pride: if for the sake of feeling the pleasure of being
affected, it is then idolatry and self-gratification.--Laboured
also to expose the disagreeableness of those affections that are
sometimes wrought up in persons by the power of fancy and their own attempts
for that purpose, while I still endeavoured to recommend to them that
religious affection, fervency, and devotion which ought to attend all our
religious exercises, and without which religion will be but an empty
name and lifeless carcass.
This
appeared to be a seasonable discourse, and proved very satisfactory to
some of the religious people, who before were exercised with some difficulties
relating to this point.--Afterwards took care of, and gave my people directions
about, their worldly affairs.
May
24. Visited the Indians, and took care of their secular, business,
which they are not able to manage themselves, without the constant care
and advice of others.--Afterwards discoursed to some particularly about
their spiritual concerns.
Lord’s
day, May
25. Discoursed both parts of the day from John xii. 44-48. “Jesus cried
and said, He that believeth on me,” &c. There was some degree of divine
power attending the word of God. Sundry wept and appeared considerably
affected: and one who had long been under spiritual trouble, now obtained
clearness and comfort, and appeared to “rejoice in God her Saviour.” It
was a day of grace and divine goodness; a day wherein something I trust
was done for the cause of God among my people: a season of sweetness and
comfort to divers of the religious people, although there was not that
powerful influence upon the congregation which was common some months ago.
Lord’s
day, June
1, 1746. Preached both forenoon and afternoon from Matt. xi. 27, 28. The
presence of God seemed to be in the assembly, and numbers were considerably
melted and affected under divine truths. There was a desirable appearance
in the congregation in general, an earnest attention and agreeable tenderness,
and it seemed as if God designed to visit us with further showers of divine
grace.--I then baptized ten persons, five adults and five children,
and was not a little refreshed with this “addition made to the church of
such as, I hope, shall be saved.”
I
have reason to hope that God has lately (at and since our celebration of
the Lord’s supper) brought home to himself sundry souls who had long been
under spiritual trouble and concern; although there have been few instances
of persons lately awakened out of a state of security. And those comforted
of late seem to be brought in in a more silent way, neither their
concern nor consolation being so powerful and remarkable as appeared
among those more suddenly wrought upon in the beginning of this work of
grace.
June
6. Discoursed to my people from part of Isa. liii.--The divine presence
appeared to be amongst us in some
PART
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measure.
Divers persons were much melted and refreshed; and one man in particular,
who had long been under concern for his soul, was now brought to see and
feel, in a very lively manner, the impossibility of his doing any thing
to help himself, or to bring him into the favour of God, by his tears,
prayers, and other religious performances; and found himself undone
as to any power or goodness of his own, and that there was no way left
him, but to leave himself with God to be disposed of as he pleased.
June
7. Being desired by the Rev. Mr. William Tennent to be his assistant
in the administration of the Lord’s supper; my people also being invited
to attend the sacramental solemnity, they cheerfully embraced the
opportunity, and this day attended the preparatory services with me.
Lord’s
day, June
8. Most of my people who had been communicants at the Lord’s table
before, being present at this sacramental occasion, communicated with others
in this holy ordinance at the desire, and I trust, to the satisfaction
and comfort, of numbers of God’s people who had longed to see this day,
and whose hearts had rejoiced in this work of grace among the Indians,
which prepared the way for what appeared so agreeable at this time.--Those
of my people who communicated seemed in general agreeably affected at the
Lord’s table, and some of them considerably melted with the love of Christ;
although they were not so remarkably refreshed and feasted at this time
as when I administered this ordinance to them in our own congregation only.
Some
of the by-standers were affected with seeing these who had been
“aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenant
of promise,” who of all men had lived “without hope, and without God in
the world,” now brought near to God as his professing people, and
sealing covenant with him, by a solemn and devout attendance upon this
sacred ordinance. And as numbers of God’s people were refreshed with this
sight, and thereby excited to bless God for the enlargement of his kingdom
in the world, so some others, I was told, were awakened by it, apprehending
the danger they were in of being themselves finally cast out, while
they saw others, “from the east and west,” preparing, and hopefully prepared
in some good measure, to “sit down in the kingdom of God.”
At
this season others of my people also, who were not communicants,
were considerably affected; convictions were revived in divers instances;
and one (the man particularly mentioned in my Journal of the 6th instant)
obtained comfort and satisfaction; and has since given me such an account
of his spiritual exercises, and the manner in which he obtained
relief, as appears very hopeful. It seems as if he “who commanded the light
to shine out of darkness,” had now “shined in his heart, and given him
the light of,” and experimental “knowledge of, the glory of God in the
face of Jesus Christ.”
June
3. A considerable number of my people met together early in the day in
a retired place in the woods, and prayed, sang, and conversed
of divine things; and were seen by some religious persons of the white
people, to be affected and engaged, and divers of them in tears, in these
religious exercises.
Afterwards
they attended the concluding exercises of the sacramental solemnity, and
then returned home, divers of them “rejoicing for all the goodness of God”
they had seen and felt; so that this appeared to be a profitable, as well
as a comfortable season, to numbers of my congregation. And their being
present at this occasion, and a number of them communicating at the Lord’s
table with others of God’s people, was, I trust, for the honour of God
and the interest of religion in these parts, as numbers, I have reason
to think, were quickened by means of it.
June
13. Preached to my people upon the new creature, from 2 Cor. v. 17. “If
any man be in Christ,” &c. The presence of God appeared to be in the
assembly.--It was a sweet and agreeable meeting, wherein the people of
God were refreshed and strengthened, beholding their faces in the glass
of God’s word, and finding in themselves the marks and lineaments
of the new creature. Some sinners under concern were also renewedly
affected, and afresh engaged for the securing of their eternal interests.
Baptized
five
persons at this time, three adults and two children. One of these was the
very aged woman, of whose exercise I gave an account in my Journal
of Dec. 26. She now gave me a very punctual, rational, and satisfactory
account of the remarkable change she experienced some months after the
beginning of her concern, which, I must say, appeared to be the genuine
operations of the divine Spirit, so far as I am capable of judging. And
although she was become so childish through old age, that I could do nothing
in a way of questioning with her, nor scarce make her understand
any that I asked her; yet when I let her alone to go on with her own story,
she could give a very distinct and particular relation of the many and
various exercises of soul she had experienced; so deep were the impressions
left upon her mind by that influence, and that exercise she had been under!
And I have great reason to hope, she is born anew in her old age,
she being, I presume, upwards of fourscore. I had good hopes of
the other adults, and trust they are such as God will own “in the day when
he makes up his jewels.”
June
19. Visited my people with two of the reverend correspondents. Spent some
time in conversation with some of them upon spiritual things; and took
some care of their worldly concerns.
This day makes up a complete year from the first time of my preaching to these Indians in New Jersey.--What amazing things has God wrought in this space of time for these poor people! What a surprising change appears in their tempers and behaviour! How are morose and savage pagans in this short space of time transformed into agreeable, affectionate, and humble Christians! and their drunken and pagan howlings turned into devout and fervent prayers and praises to God! They “who were sometimes darkness, are now become light in the Lord. May they walk as children of the light, and of the day. And now to him that is of power to stablish them according to the gospel, and the preaching of Christ--To God only wise, be glory, through Jesus Christ, for ever and ever! Amen.”