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sion of the worldly; and the amount and mode of its various contributions for objects of christian benevolence. In such meetings too, subjects of common interest can be discussed, and light can be elicited by the comparison of views from different quarters, and by bringing together the results of a varied experience. The best methods of promoting the spirit of piety, and of resisting the many forms of vice and error that are abroad, can be inquired after. The case of such churches as are feeble and ready to faint, being presented, a strong and effective interest can be secured in their behalf. And in ways too numerous to be mentioned, the combined and augmented influence of the churches thus associated, may be brought to bear on the advancement of the cause of Christ.

I need not say that such meetings have been tried. In one form or another, and under different names, they are well known to nearly all the evangelical churches in the land. The Presbyterian churches, in their presbyteries and synods; the Episcopal churches, in their diocesan conventions; the Baptist churches in their associations ;-have their stated meetings by their pastors and delegates, in which the general interests of religion are consulted, and by which they stir each other up to love and good works. I say nothing here in behalf of the ecclesiastical jurisdiction and power which some of these assem

blies attempt to exercise, and about the usefulness and lawfulness of which there is great diversity of opinion among christians; but none can doubt that as means of stated communion and efficient co-operation among churches, such meetings have a real value. In like manner, nearly all the congregational churches meet together statedly, for co-operation and mutual consultation. These meetings are called, in some places, consociations, and as stated ecclesiastical councils are permitted, when regularly invited, to inquire and advise respecting difficulties, disorders, and cases of discipline. In other parts of the country, similar meetings are held at stated seasons, under the name of conferences of the churches, and are not improperly debarred from acting as ecclesiastical councils, in any circumstances. Under one of these names or the other, nearly all our congregational churches are formally connected together; and it may be said that where the churches have no such means of stated intercourse, not only by their pastors, but by delegates from among the brethren, there they must necessarily fail, to a greater or less extent, in respect to their duties to each other and to themselves.

The principle that churches are closely connected with each other by their common constitution, and common interests and objects, is obviously a principle of great importance. How

obvious then is the criminality of every thing which counteracts this great principle, or is inconsistent with that cordial feeling of brotherhood, that warm-hearted fellowship and co-operation so essential to the well being of the churches. Do you ever indulge yourself in unnecessary and unkind comparisons between your own church and sister churches around you? Are you ever heard to speak disrespectfully of the pastor of a neighboring church, who, less gifted perhaps than some others, or endowed with talents less imposing, is yet pious and diligent in his work? Is your church, through your influence, or with your consent, pursuing an exclusive, separating course of conduct, standing aloof from all delegated meetings of churches for communion and concert and augmented efficiency of action? In all such things as these you are plainly swerving from your duty, and falling short of the claims which the Lord Jesus urges on you as one of his disciples. Such things are at war with the spirit and the principles of that brotherly love, on which, as it was manifested in the Thessalonian church towards all the brethren in all Macedonia, Paul bestows his special commendations. Your church, in separating itself from the sister churches, and in refusing to throw into their delegated meetings for mutual incitement and the common benefit, the whole of its influence, shows how much it has need that

some apostle should "write unto it as touching brotherly love;" for it seems to be not yet effectually "taught of God" in respect to that great principle of his kingdom, the principle that all are one. Especially if your church is one endowed with many gifts, and capable of doing much in such meetings, to instruct and stimulate the sister churches, and to lead them on in works of faith and love, and to sustain them under their trials and fears, how unquestionably is it hiding its light, by that assumed independence, that unblessed spirit of separation. "We beseech you," is the word of the apostles, coming with emphasis to all such churches,-" we beseech you brethren that ye increase more and more" in this neglected duty of brotherly love.

CHAPTER VIII.

Responsibility of the New England Churches.

"From you sounded out the word of the Lord." 1 Thess, i. 8.

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“YE ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD: CITY THAT IS SET ON A HILL CANNOT BE HID." These words the Savior used in describing the common responsibility of all those who have received from God through his Son the blessings of the gospel. To them it belongs-whether they are considered individually, or as collected and associated in churches-to them it belongs to illuminate the world. The same truth which has made them free can free the nations from the bondage of sin and hell. The same hopes that fill their minds and warm their hearts, may be communicated from one to another till all the world shall feel the blessed inspiration. The same affections and purposes which make them the children of God, and which constitute their resemblance to his holiness, may be wakened up in other minds, and may spread from heart to heart till all mankind shall own one Father, and adore one Savior. All this may be done; but whether it shall be done, and when, depends under God, on those to whom the gospel has already come with its renewing and sanctifying influences. To them-one and all--God says,