_To the Members of a Society at Philadelphia._
_Reedy Island, May 22, 1740._ _My dear Friends_,
AS the LORD, for wise reasons, detains me here, I cannot but send you a line as a token of my unfeigned concern for the welfare of your better part. I must confess, that the account many of you gave of your experiences, was not so satisfactory as I could wish; but I hope you will none of you rest in good desires, or think you are christians, because you have followed after me. I thank you, GOD knows my heart, I thank you for all expressions of your love: But I beseech you to remember, that the kingdom of GOD does not consist in _word_, but in _power_. Keeping company with GOD’s people, does not give you a title to the privileges of GOD’s children. It may increase, but not extenuate your condemnation, if you are not sound in heart, and truly converted to our dear LORD JESUS CHRIST. I am persuaded you will not be offended at this plain dealing. GOD has been pleased to work upon you by my unworthy ministry. I would therefore watch over you for good, and warn you against those snares which await all the true followers of the Lamb of GOD. At my next return, I hope I shall see you are that inwardly, which you would be esteemed outwardly. The searcher of hearts knows I long for your salvation. My dear friends, adieu. Pray for me. Be humble, be strong in the LORD and in the power of his might. A fiery trial awaits you. There is no being a christian without giving up all for CHRIST. We must all have the spirit of martyrdom, though we may not all die martyrs.――That the LORD may keep you by his power unto salvation, and make you more than conquerors through his love, is the hearty prayer of
Your affectionate friend and servant,