A Brief Memoir of the REV. Charles Simeon, M.A. (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1848. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... pared with any leading theologian, unquestionably, except in the doctrine of reprobation, they would most resemble those of Calvin. Yet, to his honour be it spoken, there is nothing in his writings hostile to other parties in the Christian Church; no bitter denunciations against other sects, if they did but hold the great and essential doctrines of the Gospel. He taught no system. He loved every text and dreaded none; he gloried in laying on each successively an equal stress. His noble catholicity and candour of spirit is remarkably displayed in an interesting conversation held with the venerable founder of Methodism. Its particulars are detailed in Wesley's Journal, and although he was afterwards totally unconnected with Simeon, yet he always retained for him the most affectionate regard. The following is the substance of this amusing conversation: -- "Sir," said Simeon, "I understand that you are called an Arminian; and I have sometimes been called a Calvinist; and therefore I suppose we are to draw daggers. But before I consent to begin the combat, with your permission, I will ask you a few questions, not from impertinent curiosity, but for real instruction." Permission being very readily granted, the young minister proceeded to say, --" Pray, Sir, do you feel yourself a depraved creature, so depraved that you would never have thought of turning to God, if God had not first put it into your heart? "Yes," says the veteran, "I do indeed." "And do you utterly despair of recommending yourself to God by anything that you can do; and do you look for salvation solely through the blood and righteousness of Jesus Christ?" "Yes, solely through Christ." "But, Sir, supposingyou were at first saved by Christ, are you not somehow or other to save yourself afterwards...