←1911
←1911
When the Writer first offered this suggestion, he was not aware that it was a Puritan practice. According to their plan, the question was given out, and answers were required; from which arose a free and unreserved conversation; in the course of which the Minister would help, as he saw occasion; restraining the parties in the path of the discussion from encroaching on his office. At the conclusion of the conference, he gathered their scattered sentiments, confirmed and applied them by suitable Scriptures and remarks. See Life of Mr. T. Wilson in Clark’s Lives, Vol. iii. p. 33. His own Life, prefixed, states the advantages of these meetings. Pref. 4, 5. Interesting specimens may also be seen in Philip Henry’s Life, pp. 41, 42, 349-351. His excellent son introduced them also into his congregation for the use of his young people, himself always presiding. He appears to have had a similar but less restricted meeting among the older members of his Church. One of his prayers before the sacrament proved his interest in these meetings—‘That which I desire particularly to receive from the Lord at his table tomorrow, is wisdom for personal conference about matters of religion.’ Life, pp. 134, 135. Mather also gives an interesting sketch—Essays to do Good, pp. 87-91. Baxter notes the necessity of social meetings to preserve unity among our people; but seems to insist on the necessity of Ministerial control. Reformed Pastor. Where, however, these meetings cannot be systematically held, occasional gatherings of our Church, as circumstances may suggest, for special prayer and exhortation, would strengthen the mutual bond.