Sectarianism
The speaker emphasizes the need for unity and the rejection of sectarian divisions in times of crisis.
John Newton emphasizes the importance of being persistent in seeking the truth and the Word of God, even if it means hearing the same message repeatedly. He acknowledges the eagerness of people to hear the preaching of the Gospel, attributing it to a genuine love for the truth and respect for the ministers. Newton humbly expresses his own inadequacies and the need for divine wisdom, meekness, and zeal to fulfill his ministry effectively, recognizing his dependency on Christ alone for guidance and strength.
Text
April 28, 1778.
Dear Sir,
I was not much disappointed at not meeting you at home. I know how difficult it is to get away from ******, if you are seen in the street after breakfast. The horse-leech has three daughters, saying, "Give, give:" the cry there is, "Preach, preach." When you have told them all, you must tell them more, or tell it them over again. Whoever will find tongue, they will engage to find ears. Yet I do not blame this importunity: I wish you were teased more with it in your own town; for though undoubtedly there are too many, both at N**** and here, whose religion lies too much in hearing, yet in many it proceeds from a love to the truth, and to the ministers who dispense it. And I generally observe, that they who are not willing to hear a stranger (if his character is known) are indifferent enough about hearing their own minister.
I beg you to pray for me. I am a poor creature, full of wants. I seem to need the wisdom of Solomon, the meekness of Moses, and the zeal of Paul, to enable me to make full proof of my ministry. But, alas! you may guess the rest.
Send me the way to Christ. I am willing to be a debtor to the wise and unwise, to doctors and shoe-makers, if I can get a hint, or a Nota Bene from any one, without respect to parties. When a house is on fire, Churchmen, Dissenters, Methodists, Papists, Moravians, and Mystics, are all welcome to bring water. At such times, nobody asks, "Pray friend, whom do you hear?" or, "What do you think of the five points?" &c. &c.
I am, &c.
Sermon Outline
- The Cry for Preaching
- The Dangers of Sectarianism
- The Need for Unity
- The unity in times of crisis
- The rejection of sectarian divisions
Key Quotes
“When a house is on fire, Churchmen, Dissenters, Methodists, Papists, Moravians, and Mystics, are all welcome to bring water.” — John Newton
“At such times, nobody asks, 'Pray friend, whom do you hear?' or, 'What do you think of the five points?' &c. &c.” — John Newton
Application Points
- We should focus on the truth rather than our denominational differences.
- In times of crisis, we should come together and help each other, regardless of our background or denomination.
- We should be willing to learn from others, regardless of their background or denomination.