An Appeal to the Unconverted.
By Editor
DOUBTLESS, to many of you, the world seems alluring, its charms manifold, its scenes captivating; but be not deceived, listen no longer to the song of the siren—it charms but to allure, and affords not true happiness—the spell will soon very soon be broken, and then not a vestige of consoling thought or happy reflection will be realized. O, we entreat you, be not paralyzed by this world's influences, but be constrained by the excellences of religion—the preciousness of Christ, the beauties of another world, the glories of the everlasting kingdom, not to set your affections on things of earth, but enlist yourselves as volunteers in that large company which is already marshalled, expecting soon to join the "innumerable multitude." Be assured salvation is still proffered, mercy's hand is still extended. Will you submit to Christ and become the rich recipients of his love? Religion is entitled to your warmest sympathies—to the affections of your whole heart. O, yield to its claims. The Saviour who died to save you, is now an intercessor. Is there one who will reject the free offers of mercy now, and be shut out from Christ's presence forever? Solemn thought. You have the prayers of the Israel of God—continual intercession rises from many a heart in your behalf. While we pray "Thy Kingdom Come," we are not unmindful of your well being. While we look forward, with joyous anticipation, to the consummation of our fondest hopes, and highest aspirations, our hearts are pained with the reflection of your coming doom. It is a devout saying, that "if we expect to live with Christ in heaven, we must live to him on earth." Then how important that we obtain a preparation for the coming of the Lord. If we would exult with unmingled happiness at that blessed clime, we must submit to Christ, stand entire in him, and be ready, waiting for the solemn revelation of the coming day. Be impressed your earthly career will soon be terminated, "the great day of the Lord is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly?" Then embrace the Saviour, live to God, wholly consecrated to his service; enjoy the fullness of the gospel of Christ and all will be well: when the Saviour comes, you will be like him; when He who is our life, shall appear, we shall appear with him in glory. Be summoned to no other than to a high and holy destiny. And, in closing, let me earnestly entreat you all, kind friends, from those who know but little of earth's tribulation, to those whose brow is furrowed by age, by cares, to reflect on the untried realities of the future state, and pursue no farther the track which will inevitably end in the second death.160You are not yet bereft of encouragement; there is at least a ray of hope yet lingering, unwilling to depart; cherish it, cherish it, and let nothing deter you from shining among that bright constellation that shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, as the stars forever and ever. And with the kind assurance of our best wishes for your present peace and future happiness, I now close this appeal, commending you to God for his blessing and heavenly benediction to rest upon you.