Copy of Letter

Scope and Content

From George Whitefield in London to the Cardiff Society. Ever since their dear brother [William] Seward informed him that the society had given thanks on Whitefield’s behalf and had gained benefit from his journal, Whitefield could not rest until he had sent this letter of thanks and exhortation.

'Go on my dear brethren...Contend earnestly for ye faith once delivered to the Saints and never fear the face of man. Be knit in perfect love one towards another...Be always pressing forward towards perfection. Never rest in legal state, but aspire after a full assurance of faith, nay, wrestle with God till you have it...no-one can say I am a Christian indeed, till the spirit of Jesus Christ witnesseth with his spirit that he is a child of God. This is what the Apostle calls being led by the Spirit & the Spirit of God dwelling in us. And when we have the received the Holy Ghost in this manner, we have the Seal of our redemption, the earnest of the promised inheritance in our hearts. We have passed from death into life and shall never enter into condemnation...And Oh ! that I could breath upon you & cause you thus to receive the Holy Ghost . But such power belongeth only unto Jesus Christ...' Spiritual matters are further discussed.

Whitefield’s heart is enlarged towards the society. 'Tho unknown to you in person, I love you in the bowels of Jesus Christ...' In a postscript, he adds that many Christian friends in London send their greetings.