whom some thousands of them have been reclaimed from their evil ways. In many places, however, they were persecuted with unrelenting cruelty. Frequently they were beset by mobs, and assailed by showers of stones; and sometimes inhumanly dragged through the streets, until their mangled bodies were bereft of every symptom of life. But Methodism survived all opposition, and has since been crowned with abundant success. There is now upwards of a million of persons connected with the Methodists.
The doctrinal sentiments of this denomination are chiefly Arminian; but they differ on some points of minor importance. The Methodists hold the doctrine of original sin, or the total fall of man in Adam, and his utter inability to recover himself, "without the grace of God preventing and working with him." General redemption, and a free salvation extending itself to all, are fundamental points in their system.
The government and discipline adopted by this numerous body of people are nearly peculiar to themselves, and are well adapted to unite and consolidate the various branches of such an extensive and multifarious society. All that is necessary to render a person eligible to become a member is, "a desire to flee from the wrath to come, and to be saved from sin;" and to continue in communion, he is required to attend regularly on all the ordinances of public worship, and to maintain an irreproachable behaviour. A departure from this rule is followed with admonition, and finally with exclusion, if not reclaimed.
