Part 36

In answer to this, let me observe, that none living, especially none who are desirous of salvation, can know that they are not of the number of GOD’s elect. None, but the unconverted, can have any just reason, so much as to fear it. And would dear Mr. _Wesley_ give comfort, or dare you apply the precious promises of the gospel, being children’s bread, to men in a natural state, while they continue so? GOD forbid! What if the doctrine of election and reprobation does put some upon doubting? So does that of regeneration. But, is not this doubting, a good means to put them upon searching and striving; and that striving, a good means to make their calling and their election sure. This is one reason among many others, why I admire the doctrine of election, and am convinced that it should have a place in gospel ministrations, and should be insisted on with faithfulness and care. It has a natural tendency to rouze the soul out of its carnal security. And therefore many carnal men cry out against it. Whereas universal redemption is a notion sadly adapted to keep the soul in its lethargic sleepy condition, and therefore so many natural men admire and applaud it.