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ences in general, especially those immediately connected with the office of a public teacher of religion, as grammar, logic, rhetoric, metaphysics, and ethics, must be added a radical and critical acquaintance with the languages, in which the holy scriptures were originally written, as indispensably requisite to ascertain the true intent of divine inspiration in many important passages; also some acquaintance with the history of the formation, preservation, and transmission of the sacred volume; with the character and use of ancient versions and manuscripts, the canons of biblical criticism, ecclesiastical history, the various religious sects in ancient time, the character and writings of the fathers, the grounds, progress, and doctrines of the reformation, and the great points of controversy, which have divided the Christian world; to say nothing of the various constitutions and forms of discipline and worship, which have existed, and do still exist in the Christian church.

Here it will be recollected, that this necessary information is not to be found collected and arranged in one huge volume; but lies scattered in a multitude of books in various languages, and difficult to be procured, the expense of which alone places them at an inaccessible distance from the young student in theology. But, were they collected in one place, still, without the means of residence there, and even with those means, they would be in great part useless to him, without the assistance

of an able guide to direct the course of his researches, and to regulate his studies.

It is also to be remembered, that the knowledge derived from the preceding sources, however useful and necessary, is no more than auxiliary. Theology, that is, the knowledge of God and of his will, must be derived from the Book of God. The BIBLE therefore is the object to which the student in divine things must direct his first, his last, his constant attention. This divine book must he study, on this must he meditate day and night, comparing spiritual things with spiritual; until by diligent, persevering, and prayerful examination, he shall be able to ascertain the meaning, scope, and reasoning of the sacred writers, and in this way to make scripture the interpreter of scripture. But in doing this, not only much time and patience will be neces sary to the young theologian, but such is the style of scripture, such are the allusions to ancient rites and customs, and such the mysterious nature of many subjects and doctrines of revelation, that he will often need the help of a well informed and judicious instructor.

With respect to the opportu nities of preparation for the desk, at present enjoyed, it is well known, that, after the expenses of a public education, the pecuniary circumstances of most candidates will permit but a short time for this purpose; and this short period, when not passed alone, as it often is, with little or no advice, is commonly spent with some clergyman, whom

proximity, economy, or accident may dictate. Happy is it, when the clergyman, thus selected, possesses the talents, leisure, and any considerable part of the books necessary for the direction and instruction of his pupil. But is it not a serious fact, that the preparatory education of many clergymen was itself so narrow, that their libraries are so small, and their avocations so numerous, that it is impracticable for them to afford much assistance to those who may place themselves under their direction? The natural consequence is, that the instructor feeling his pupil a burden, and the pupil remaining a stranger to the extensive walks of sacred literature, and desirous perhaps of proving his talents, a few sermons are written, the pupil commences preacher; and, if he possess popular talents, soon obtains a settlement. Thus are his preparatory studies terminated, and, in many instances, all opportunity of calm, uninterrupted research into the deep things of God. The only season for acquiring a copious fund of appropriate knowledge is lost forever; and parochial duties, domestic cares, and social obligations scarcely permit him opportunity from week to week to prepare two hasty compositions for the Sabbath, instead of 66 beaten soil of the sanc

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Is it not then apparent, that some farther provision is necessary, and ought to be made for the education of Nazarites for the service of the gospel temple? And what better provision can be made, than a well regulated theological seminary, under the immediate

care of able, learned, and pious professors, in which candidates for the ministry may spend a competent number of years under wise direction and salutary guidance; in which also the indigent may receive needed pecuniary assistance? Such seminaries are said to have been established in the early ages of Christianity; such now exist in Europe; and one such has been recently established by the " Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church" in our own country. Can any reason be assigned, which will satisfy us, that such an institution is not equally necessary, and would not be equally useful to Congregational Christians and churches? But the importance of a theological seminary will be still more apparent, if we contemplate some of the advantages, which may be reasonably expected to result from such an institution. These naturally divide themselves into three classes; those which respect the ministers of the gospel, the people of their charge, and the interests of religion in general.

I. Of the advantages to be derived to ministers themselves from a well endowed theological seminary, the following may be given, as a sketch. Students in divinity may there enjoy a public library, which, in addition to treasures of common science, will be furnished with a rich variety of books in the several branches of sacred literature; many of which, though of primary importance, such as are seldom, if ever, found in the libraries of clergymen. Their course of study also being directed by judicious professors,.

Hence

the different branches and subjects in theology will be prose cuted in proper time and order, and authors read in a regular and systematic manner. the many evils of promiscuous reading will be corrected, and particularly that of reading many books, from which nothing valuable can be learnt, but that they are not worth reading. Numbers being engaged in the same pursuit, due scope will be given to the principle of emulation, so natural to ingenuous minds, and so operative in early life. From this powerful stimulus may be expected closer and more persevering application, deeper research, and of course greater and more rapid progress. Their attention will also be stimulated, their conceptions quickened, and their minds invigorated by the frequent occasions, given by their situation, to conversation and argument."As iron sharpeneth iron," so do such literary interviews the powers of the mind. Much time and labour of research will likewise be saved, and many former, but dormant ideas, revived by this intellectual commerce and friendly interchange of thought; advantages not to be enjoyed in solitude. Another striking advantage, enjoyed by residents at such an institution, is, that in the lectures of the professors will be presented to their view a concise system of natural and Christian theology; in which the principal arguments from reason and scripture in proof of the existence of God, his providence, the immortality of the soul, the future state, the necessity of a divine revelation, the truth of Christianity, and also the great doc

trines and duties of our holy religion, together with the objections, usually made to them by unbelievers, and the refutation of such objections, will be exhibited in a perspicuous and orderly manner. From such lectures they will learn, not only the system of Christian doctrines, but how to defend it; and, what is of peculiar importance, they will also learn in what way to study and apply the sacred writ ings with most advantage. No small benefit also will be derived to students in divinity from the recommendation and character of books incidentally and formally given in these lectures. By prosecuting their studies under such advantages a proper length of time, a large stock of appropriate knowledge will be acquired, methodically arranged, and conveniently disposed for use. Intermixing, as they advance in their studies, suitable exercises in composition, and submitting the same to the professors' friendly inspection, their sentiments, taste, and style will be improved. In due time also, by exhibiting specimens of their own composition in public, opportunity will be given for important improvements in delivery. It is material to add, that by such a course of education, not only a habit of research and close thinking will be acquired, but a more thorough and familiar acquaintance with the holy scriptures will be formed. This again will furnish a more ready command of pertinent texts on every subject in theology, and greatly assist and enrich the performance of extemporaneous duties. From such a course of study, at all times pursued in

humble dependence on the Holy Spirit to lead them into all the truth; and with daily, fervent prayer to the Father of lights for his guidance and blessing, it is reasonable to hope that young ministers, when entering the sacred office, will have acquired a more thorough understanding of revealed truths, a deeper sense of divine things, and of their need of divine direction; more humility and devotion, more reliance on God and less upon themselves, a livelier sense of redeeming love, and greater zeal for the glory of God, for the doctrines of the cross, the salvation of souls, and the interests of the Redeemer's kingdom.

II. From a minister of this description, one so well furnish ed for every good work, may we not reasonably expect a more able defence of the truth and doctrines of Christianity, more forcible reasoning, and more persuasive eloquence; compositions more regular, instructive, and animating; sermons more luminous, rich, and profitable; and prayers more sentimental, connected, devout, and elevating? Having his own mind deeply penetrated by a lively conviction of the worth of immortal souls, and by an experimental sense of the truth and importance of the great doctrines of the gospel, he will naturally preach them with constancy, zeal, and perseverance, as the wisdom of God, and the power of God to salvation; with these, not with the reasonings of proud philosophy, will he feed the flock of God, "which he hath purchased with his own blood." Having made the scriptures familiar to his mind, and being well acquainted

with controverted points, he will be prepared to solve the doubts and difficulties of humble, inquiring Christians, as well as to refute the objections and confound the impudence of proud and carping infidels. Thus accomplished for his station, his talents will command universal respect; and his respectability will in turn give weight to his instructions, counsels, and example. This wili especially be the case,

if to his other acquirements he have added the virtue of prudence; and there is reason to hope that two or three years additional acquaintance with himself and those around him, while prosecuting his preparatory studies, will have also improved him in this necessary grace. A series of years, passed in study, reflection, and devotion, is certainly favourable to the government of the passions, and to the growth of that virtue, for want of which so much injury has been done to the cause of religion and the peace of the church. From a minister, who has thus devoted several years to prepare himself for his profession, and is thus deeply impressed by a sense of divine things, it may be expected that, if properly supported, he will give himself wholly to them, and that his profiting will appear to all. Personal cares and worldly interest will have little influence on a minister of such views and habits, to prevent him from feeding his people with knowledge and understanding; the more he has done, the more he will wish to do for their edification, comfort, and salvation; being willing to spend his time, strength, and life itself, for the happiness of those for whom

Christ died. With a divine blessing on the learned, faithful, and pious labours of such a minister, it may be hoped, that converts will be multiplied among his people, that believers will be edified and strengthened, that they will increase in knowledge and walk in love, and that the God of peace will delight to dwell among them, and to build them up through faith and comfort to final salvation. Nor will the good effects of his preaching be confined to the present age, but be transmitted from generation to generation. The labours of such a minister will in books often survive the man, and in this way will he live through distant ages and countries, diffusing light, and life, and joy.

III. It is easy to foresee that, with the blessing of God, such an institution will in a few years furnish a respectable number of ministers, who, having enjoyed advantages superior to what now exist, will be better qualified to combat infidelity and error in every form. This goodly number, being annually increased, will soon constitute a solid and formidable phalanx, well armed for the defence of divine truth, so constantly opposed even from the first age of Christianity. "For many walk," said the apostle in his day, "of whom I told you before, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ." So also in modern times there is strong reason for believing and lamenting, that there are many of this character, who, by philosophy and cunning craftiness, wherewith they lie in wait to deceive, are secretly and assiduously undermining the fabric of

Christianity. By books of many kinds, and in various other ways, their deadly poison is extensively, though in some respects secretly diffused throughout our country. In proportion as these enemies of God and man increase in number, learning, and activity, will be the necessity of an able and learned clergy, to expose their wiles, refute their sophistry, and counteract the misapplication of their science, literature, and talents. Pious Christians may well tremble for the ark of God, unless supported by a learned and vigilant priesthood. That Christianity is still publicly professed and supported in Europe is in great part owing, under God, to the exertions and persevering industry of eminent, learned divines in England and Germany, by whose diligence the field of biblical knowledge has been greatly extended within the last fifty years, and science in general made to do homage to revelation by many rich offerings at the altar of sacred truth. By their ingenuity has the infidel been made to blush at his own sophistry and falsehood; and by them bas the atheist been robbed of the laurels, which he expected from the regions of natural history and the garden of Asiatic literature. ' Such men are an inestimable blessing to the age and country, in which they live; and their writings of great use to other countries and ages, as far as familiarly known. Still, however, for reasons too numerous to be mentioned, it will be readily admitted, as a maxim, that living foes must be opposed by a living force. When the attack is made on our own soil, we must not de

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