TRACTS FOR THE TIMES.
bitter to forsake the Lord. And owning this so publicly, you will be ashamed to return to the sins you have repented of.
Then we shall all pray to God that He would, for Christ's sake, accept of your repentance; that He would enable you to live for the time to come in obedience to the laws of Jesus Christ, that your souls may be saved at the day of judgment.
These are the wholesome ends the Church proposes in her censures; following herein the Apostle's directions[1], in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves, that they may recover themselves out of the snares of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
Therefore, dear brother, consider that you are in the presence of God—the searcher of hearts. You may, indeed, deceive this congregation with a feigned repentance, but you cannot deceive Him that made you; who, if you dissemble in this matter, will shut you out of heaven, though you continue a visible member of His Church here.
But that we may take all due caution, I must in the name of this congregation, ask you these questions:
Are you from your heart sorry for the sin you have committed?—Answer. I am.
Will you be more careful for the time to come; and by God's help, avoid all temptations to it?—Answer. I will.
Will you constantly pray to God to assist you to do so?—Answer. I will.
Do you desire the forgiveness of all good Christians whom you may have offended?—Answer. I do.
And do you desire that others, seeing your sorrow, may beware of falling into any grievous sin?—Answer. I do desire it.
Will you take patiently the admonition of such as, after a Christian manner, shall advise you, if they shall see you forget yourself and the promises you have now made?—Answer. I will.
Then shall the Minister say,
May the gracious God give you repentance to life eternal; receive you into his favour; continue you a true member of the Church of Christ; and bring you unto his everlasting kingdom, through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
