PREFACE.
-[From the First Series.]-
The following Sermons are published in accordance with the dying request of their lamented author. Several years before his decease, Dr. Fuller prepared them for publication with especial care. Correcting his original notes, they were then placed in the hands of a friend to be copied. The copy was subsequently revised ; and so thoroughly was the work done that when the manuscripts were opened, they were found to be in complete readiness for the press.
Posthumous discourses of eminent ministers are often given to the world. But these are generally selected by surviving friends from such imperfect materials as may be accessible. In this case we have those which the author himself designated for publication, and which received his final review. It is quite unusual for Pastors, amid the demands of their engrossing work, to prepare discourses to be read after they have ceased to speak. That two such volumes as are now presented to the public should be furnished by Dr. Fuller, is a witness both to his industry and his zeal in the service of Jesus.
It is probable that these Sermons are published nearly as they were delivered. It was the author's habit in preaching to have every important thought carefully premeditated. Not unfrequently he employed the very words which had been prearranged. Many will recognize in these glowing pages expressions often heard from the living voice. The language will serve to recall the tone, the features, the very gesture of the beloved speaker, though the eloquent tongue is silent ; and impressions, partially effaced by time, will be revived. Others, who
