Medical Treatment, Hydropathy, Supernaturalism, Providence
Describes how Brownell was left without sight for several years as a child
after suffering from smallpox. Relates that, being instructed in a dream, his
father took him to a local well, using the water to bathe his eyes until his
sight was fully restored. Observes: 'Whether this salutary effect was produced
by any mineral qualities in the water, I know not; but in the means by which
the father was led to adopt this mode of cure, there seems to have been a
striking display of that kind providence which watches over men in general, and
especially over those who are, or will be, the heirs of salvation' (1).
The sermon, which expounds the text of 1 Cor. 1. 21, asserts that the
Corinthians were proud, idle, and rich, and were easy prey to '[p]hilosophy,
falsely so called'. Observes that such philosophy 'always begins with the rich'
and leisured, only later passing to the poor. Considers that the Corinthians
might have gloried in knowing God by philosophy, had the 'ancient pretension'
been true that 'we may "look through nature up to nature's
GOD"'. Suggests, however, that 'there is much of atheism in
that popular sentiment.' (7) Avers that God can only be known by his
self-revelation. Explains that the biblical epistle was written to 'bring the
Corinthians to that poverty of spirit' which is essential to Christian faith.
Expounds the three parts of the text: first, the 'great FACT'
that 'THE WORLD BY WISDOM KNEW NOT GOD',
secondly, 'that the WISDOM OF GOD was
concerned in the demonstration of this Fact', and thirdly, that God's saving
self-revelation came through 'THE FOOLISHNESS OF PREACHING'.
In support of the first of these, advances evidence from the degenerate state
of 'the heathen world' as revealed by missionary endeavours. (8) Points out
that the people of ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, with all their scientific
learning, did not know God. Argues that modern infidels, such as
François M A de VoltaireVoltaire, François Marie Arouet de
(1694–1778)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>,
Henry Saint-John
(Viscount Bolinbroke)Saint-John, Henry, Viscount Bolingbroke
(1678–1751)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>,
David HumeHume, David
(1711–76)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>, and
Edward GibbonGibbon, Edward
(1737–94)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>,
owed their 'deistical wisdom' not to the ancient Greeks, but to the Bible (10).
Observes that the ancient Romans eschewed the inherited knowledge of the one
true God, and, from reasoning about God, became corrupt polytheists. Argues
that this corruption of true religion was part of the inscrutable design of
God, to make manifest that he can only be known by self-revelation. Considers
the 'celebrated infidel' Hume's argument against miracles an instance of this,
pointing out that 'the inflated worm' saw his argument 'crushed to pieces under
the foot of
DR.
CAMPBELLCampbell, George
(1719–96)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>' (12). Discusses God's forbearance in
allowing the ancient Greeks to enjoy their idolatrous successes, noting that he
'gave them a soaring intellect, a deep-searching spirit of science'. Concludes
by discussing the 'foolishness of preaching' and the relationship between the
Christian gospel, learning, and salvation. (13)
Relates an anecdote, extracted from a 'respectable Publication', reporting
the case of a seventeenth-century French ambassador, who twice experienced 'a
violent hemorrhage [sic] at the nose' at the approach of a shoemaker who was
his unsuspected nephew. In the original context, this is adduced as an instance
of 'the sympathetic affinity of individuals'. The writer of the introduction
allows that there 'may possibly exist some sort of occult sympathies in nature'
and is not inclined 'boldly to discredit every fact, for which science,
at present, is unable to account'. Suggests that it might even have been a
miraculous intervention.
Agriculture, Utility, Piety, Theology of Nature, Biblical Authority,
Causation
Clarke introduces a letter to him which gives an account of the corn reaped
from a single grain over successive seasons. Urges the relevance of such
material, not only as being useful in improving agriculture, but as grounds for
reflection on the divine attributes. Observes: 'Many thousands of those whose
only business is to cultivate the ground, to produce food for themselves
and others, and who constantly read your work, are glad to see any thing that
may induce them, through the medium of their own labour, to climb from
earth to heaven, and see HIS hand, where
before they were accustomed to see nothing but a sort of blind result of their
own spades and plough-shares' (29). Uses Biblical texts to urge that God is the
first cause.
Recommends Time's Telescope as conveying 'to young persons of
intelligence and education, much entertaining and useful information, without
that corrupting admixture of unsound principles, or improper allusions, by
which so large a portion of the current literature of our times is unhappily
debased' (39).
Roberts observes of the Vedahs that he could think of 'no comparison to mark
the difference betwixt them and my coolies, than that which exists betwixt a
wild beast just brought from the forest, and one that has been tamed'.
Continues: 'Their state is alike calculated to excite the attention of the
Philosopher and the Divine'. (46)
Babbage 1822Babbage,
Charles 1822. A Letter to Sir Humphry Davy, Bart, on the
Application of Machinery to the Purpose of Calculating and Printing
Mathematical Tables, London: J. Booth, and Baldwin, Cradock and Joy
CloseView the register entry >>
Phillips 1822Phillips,
Henry 1822. History of Cultivated Vegetables: Comprising their
Botanical, Medicinal, Edible, and Chemical Qualities, Natural History, and
Relation to Art, Science, and Commerce, 2 vols, London: Henry Colburn and
Co.
CloseView the register entry >>
Phillips 1822Phillips,
Henry 1822. History of Cultivated Vegetables: Comprising their
Botanical, Medicinal, Edible, and Chemical Qualities, Natural History, and
Relation to Art, Science, and Commerce, 2 vols, London: Henry Colburn and
Co.
CloseView the register entry >>
Describes the bushmen in some detail, and compares them with other tribes,
'in order to show [...] the importance of Africa as a field for Missionary
exertions'.
Quotes from The
CambrianCambrian
(1804–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>, concerning the late
Mr Thomas
PengillyPengilly, Thomas (Superintendent of the
Neath-Abbey Iron-Works)
(1769/70–1822)
WM3/2/1g/19 CloseView the register entry >>, 'Superintendent of the Neath-Abbey Iron-Works, and for
many years a member of the Methodist Society there', that 'he was distinguished
by his "scientific and practical acquaintance with the mechanical powers [...]"
and, above all, "his sincere and influential religion"'.
Enquires rhetorically: 'Can haughty Science ever pour / Such blissful
visions from her bower, / As when that mother's warblings wild / Had sooth'd to
rest her sickly child'. Refers to 'The STARRY
SCRIPTURES of the sky / By GOD'S own
finger grav'd on high, / On heaven's expanded scroll,—whose speech / To
every tribe doth knowledge teach,— / When silent Night unlocks to seals,
/ And to forgetful man reveals / The wonders of eternal might, / In living
lines of glorious light'.
Goodwin 1648Goodwin, John
1648. The Divine Authority of the Scriptures Asserted; or, The Great Charter
of the Worlds Blessednes Vindicated. Being a Discourse of Soveraigne Use and
Service in these Times; Not Only Against that King of Errours, and Heresies
Anti-Scripturisme [...] but Also Against All Such Inward Suggestions and Secret
Underminings of Satan, by Which he Privily Attempteth the Ruine of the Precious
Faith and Hope, Wherewith the Saints have Built up Themselves with Much
Spirituall Industry and Care. Together with Two Tables Annexed; the Former, of
the Contents, and Severall Arguments more Largely Prosecuted in the Treatise;
the Later, of Such Texts of Scripture unto Which Some Light is Given
Therein, London: Henry Overton
CloseView the register entry >>
Subjects:
Natural Philosophy, Piety
In the extract
John GoodwinGoodwin, John
(1594?–1665)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
considers godliness a 'propension in the soul, which inclines it, in all the
motions and tendencies of it, towards GOD'. Considers this
analogous to the 'natural quality of heaviness in a stone, and in all other
heavy bodies, which directs them in a straight line to the centre of the earth'
and the 'contrary impression of lightness in fire, whose property is to carry
the body towards the circumference'. (83) Suggests: 'Holiness may be compared
to the brightness which is in gold; Godliness, to that weightiness in it, which
carries it towards the centre. Holiness respects the nature and
quality of the action, and engageth to a serious and zealous rectitude
in these: Godliness respects the end of the action, and carries the
agent in his intentions upon GOD' (84).
Anon [1823a]Anon. [1823a]. Some Account of the
Death of William Blair, Esq., M.A.: Surgeon to the Bloomsbury Dispensary in
London, &c. &c.; Who Died Dec. 6, 1822, aged Fifty-Six, London: J.
& T. Clarke
CloseView the register entry >>
Subjects:
Medical Practitioners, Piety, Infidelity, Morality
The editor introduces the extract with the observation that the 'decided
adherence of this eminent Surgeon to the cause of revealed religion, and of
vital godliness, furnished an additional instance to many already on record,
well calculated to redeem the respectable profession to which he belonged from
the stigma of [a] strong tendency to Infidelity, sometimes too indiscriminately
fixed upon it' (101). The extract details his religious activism, reporting:
'As Surgeon to the
Bloomsbury
DispensaryBloomsbury Dispensary
CloseView the register entry >>, he was indefatigable in his attentions to the cases of
distress which came under his notice: he cared not only for the bodies and
temporal concerns, but for the souls and eternal interests of his patients;
frequently exhausting his income in relieving the wants of the indigent'
(102).
Theology of Nature, Design, Natural Economy, Human Species, Progress,
Christianity, Natural Theology
The early stanzas concern animals, plants and minerals, concluding: 'Gem,
flower, and fish, the bird, the brute, / Of every kind, occult or known, /
(Each equisitely form'd to suit / Its humble lot, and that alone,) / Through
ocean, earth, and air, fulfil, / Unconsciously, their Author's will'. The
remaining stanzas contrast these creatures with the human species, which, while
feeble at birth, is self-willed: 'all aspire beyond their fate; / The least,
the meanest, would be great'. These aspirations, the poet believes, must
correspond with an immortal existence: 'Is there a
GOD?—All nature shows / There is,—and yet
no mortal knows: / The mind that could this truth conceive, / Which
brute sensation never taught, / No longer to the dust would cleave, / But grow
immortal at the thought!'.
Buckland 1822, Buckland,
William 1822. 'Account of an Assemblage of Fossil Teeth and Bones of
Elephant, Rhinoceros, Hippopotamus, Bear, Tiger, and Hyæna, and Sixteen
Other Animals, Discovered in a Cave at Kirkdale, Yorkshire, in the Year 1821;
With a Comparative View of Five Similar Caverns in Various Parts of England,
and Others on the Continent', Philosophical Transactions of the Royal
Society, 112 (1822), 171–236
CloseView the register entry >>Buckland 1823, Buckland,
William 1823. Reliquiae Diluvianae; or, Observations on the
Organic Remains Contained in Caves, Fissures, and Diluvial Gravel, and on other
Geological Phenomena, Attesting the Action of an Universal Deluge, London:
John Murray
CloseView the register entry >>Cumberland 1823Cumberland,
George 1823. 'On the Origin of the Accumulations of Bones in the
Caves of the Vale of Pickering in Yorkshire and Other Places', Annals of
Philosophy, 5, 127–29
CloseView the register entry >>
Introduces a letter which has been sent to the
Annals of
PhilosophyAnnals of Philosophy
(1813–26)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>, of which the editor 'has been favoured with a
copy'. Believes that 'to some classes of our Readers it will be highly
interesting'. (166) The letter disputes Buckland's explanation of the remains
in the Kirkdale cave as the accumulation of debris in a hyena den. Argues from
the entirely enclosed limestone caves near Plymouth that such remains may
result instead from subsidence entombing a large number of living animals.
Concludes that in both Pickering and Plymouth subsidence trapped 'assemblages
of animals' which had taken shelter from the rising waters of the Noachian
Deluge, but that in the former case the cave was subsequently reopened by the
retreating flood waters. Suggests that the signs of gnawing on the bones proves
only that some of the animals outlived the others. (167)
See also:
Anon, 'Discovery of a Den of Hyænas', Wesleyan-Methodist Magazine, 3rd ser. 1 (1822), 260, Anon, 'Den of Hyænas', Wesleyan-Methodist Magazine, 3rd ser. 1 (1822), 323
Richardson 1822Richardson,
Robert 1822. Travels along the Mediterranean and Parts Adjacent:
In Company with the Earl of Belmore, During the Years 1816-17-18. Extending as
Far as the Second Cataract of the Nile, Jerusalem, Damascus, Balbec,
&c, 2 vols, London: T. Cadell; Edinburgh: W. Blackwood
CloseView the register entry >>
Observes that many of the travellers who have written on the middle east
have been '[t]riflers and infidels'; by contrast, the current author ranks with
those 'travellers of real science, extensive knowledge of antiquity, and
respect to Christianity' (168). Quotes Richardson's dismissal of Egyptian
chronologies based on zodiacal signs, the identity of which he disputes. He
suggests that the philosopher who urges these theories is no less 'credulous
and absurd in his practice and belief' than the superstitious religious
fanatic, observing: 'All this the history of human science and opinions
sufficiently [... testifies], from the days of
THALESThales
(625BC–547BC)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> and
ARISTOTLEAristotle
(384–322 BC)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> to the days of
LOCKELocke, John
(1632–1704)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>
and
LA
PLACELaplace, Pierre-Simon, marquis de
(1749–1827)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>'. Citing
Jean F
ChampollionChampollion, Jean François
(1790–1832)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> and
Jean-Baptiste
BiotBiot, Jean-Baptiste
(1774–1862)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> in opposition to the zodiacal dating, he concludes that the
case 'may serve to put our reading youth also on their guard against those
plausible objections to the word of GOD, which are so often
raised on pretended scientific authority'. (172)
Scoresby
1822–24Scoresby,
William 1822–24. 'Experiments and Observations on the
Development of Magnetical Properties in Steel and Iron by Percussion'.
Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society, 112, 241–52; 114,
197–221
CloseView the register entry >>
Responding to the extracted report from a New York newspaper, the afterword
states: 'Might not Apprentice-Libraries be established, including not
only books on the arts, &c., but also others on general subjects, likely to
interest and instruct young people of the labouring classes, and especially a
careful and judicious selection of Religious Works'?
Section: Missionary Notices, Relating Principally to the Foreign Missions
Carried on Under the Direction of the Methodist Conference
Subsection: Extracts from the Publications of Other Missionary
Societies
The extract reports that a tract the missionaries have published on the
creation, 'containing the first three chapters of the book of Genesis', is
popular, and that they have recently published a small work on astronomy, which
they expect 'will soon become popular among the better informed natives'.
Relates that a 'native reader' came with friends to ask a number of questions
'concerning the form of the earth; the cause of day and night, &c.', and
that they were shown a terrestrial globe. Observes: 'Any thing which indicates
thought in a Malay is encouraging; their apathy is so great, that to interest
them on any subject of information, seems almost beyond the power of man.
Science will not make them Christians, but it will assist in dispelling the
mists of Mahomedanism, and teach them to use their mental powers'. (199)
On Mysteries in Religion. (From an American Magazine, Entitled "The
Gospel Advocate", Conducted by Members of "The Protestant Episcopal Church" in
that Country)
Responds to certain persistent objections to revealed religion by observing
that there are mysteries in religion and that 'he that withholds his belief
until all are explained in a way agreeable to his reason, must live and die an
infidel'. Argues at length that 'our knowledge of physical and intellectual
subjects' gives no reasonable expectation of being able to resolve all
mysteries in religion. (227) Reviews the sciences of chemistry, mechanics,
magnetism, mathematics, life, and mind, and concludes that all are ultimately
involved in the profoundest mystery. Quotes from
Dugald StewartStewart, Dugald
(1753–1828)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
the statement that 'it is well known that our inquiries must always terminate
in some general fact, of which no account can be given, but that such is the
constitution of nature' (227–28). Quotes from
Thomas ReidReid, Thomas
(1710–96)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> the
observation that 'we deceive ourselves if we conceive that we can point out the
real efficient cause of any' of the phenomena of natural philosophy. Reports
that
David Hume'sHume, David
(1711–76)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> sense of
the 'narrowness and falibility of our knowledge' led him to conclude that
people were not 'justified in believing any thing'. (228) Observes that the
subject of 'natural religion' is as much involved in mystery as revealed
religion. Concludes that belief in revealed religion is rational, despite its
abiding mysteries.
The observations are based on personal experience. The writer, who has 'kept
Glow-worms for years in glasses', gives instructions as to how to keep
them.
Account of the Tupinambas, a Savage Tribe in Brazil. (From Arago's
Narrative of
Capt.
Freycinet'sFreycinet, Louis Claude de Saulces de
(1779–1842)
WBI CloseView the register entry >> Voyage Round the World, Just Published)
Arago 1823Arago, Jacques Etienne
Victor 1823. Narrative of a Voyage Round the World in the Uranie
and Physicienne Corvettes: Commanded by Captain Freycinet, During the Years
1817, 1818, 1819, and 1820; on a Scientific Expedition Undertaken by Order of
the French Government. In a Series of Letters to a Friend ... To Which is
Prefixed, the Report Made to the Academy of Sciences, on the General Results of
the Expedition, London: Treuttel & Wurtz, Treuttal, jun. &
Richter
CloseView the register entry >>
Richardson 1822Richardson,
Robert 1822. Travels along the Mediterranean and Parts Adjacent:
In Company with the Earl of Belmore, During the Years 1816-17-18. Extending as
Far as the Second Cataract of the Nile, Jerusalem, Damascus, Balbec,
&c, 2 vols, London: T. Cadell; Edinburgh: W. Blackwood
CloseView the register entry >>
Subjects:
Exploration, Medical Practitioners, Medical Treatment,
Christianity
An extract describes Richardson's treatment of Coptic patients during
regular consultations in Luxor.
Crabb 1823, Crabb, George
1823. Universal Technological Dictionary; or, Familiar Explanations of the
Terms Used in all Arts and Sciences: Containing Definitions Drawn from the
Original Writers, and Illustrated by Plates, Diagrams, Cuts, &c, 2
vols, London: Baldwin, Cradock, and Joy
CloseView the register entry >>Prichard 1819Prichard, James
Cowles 1819. An Analysis of the Egyptian Mythology: To Which is
Subjoined, a Critical Examination of the Remains of Egyptian Chronology,
London : J. & A. Arch
CloseView the register entry >>
Observes that, while in some 'very able Discourses on the Divine Attributes
it has been a grievous fault, that the Christian Minister has been much less
apparent than the Metaphysician or the mere Moral Philosopher',
Henry F Burder'sBurder, Henry Forster
(1783–1864)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>The Scripture Character of God is 'totally exempt' from this. While the
subject unavoidably requires the author 'briefly to allude to metaphysical
disquisitions, and to give a general statement of those views and arguments in
which all Theists concur', he makes constant use of the Bible as his chief
source. (250)
Taylor 1700Taylor,
Nathanael 1700. A Discourse of the Nature and Necessity of Faith
in Jesus Christ: With an Answer to the Pleas of our Modern Unitarians for the
Sufficiency of Bare Morality or Meer Charity to Salvation, London: John
Lawrence and Thomas Cockerill
CloseView the register entry >>
Draws an analogy between the human conscience and 'modern' theories of air.
Like air, conscience has a 'native spring in it, that will endeavour to recover
its ancient power, if oppressed; and when it does, the greater violence has
been offered to it, it will return to its throne with the greater fury'. The
sinner, when 'empty of all his outward comforts', like a sealed glass
bubble in an air pump, will be 'utterly shivered in pieces by the workings of
that mighty principle within'. (293)
Declares: 'To determine what the light of unassisted nature can accomplish,
and what it cannot, it is necessary to ascend into times which preceded the
great gift of evangelical knowledge to the world'. Considers that 'through a
considerable portion' of the four thousand years preceding that 'glorious era',
'the light of reason was as closely cultivated, as nicely trimmed, and burned
with as bright a lustre, as in our own day'. (305) Argues that in religion, all
ancient peoples were utterly devoid of true doctrine, even as to the existence
and attributes of God. Cites Rom. 1. 20 in support of this argument, and urges
the necessity of Bible distribution.
Describes the discovery of a live specimen of a species of Cerambyx,
apparently sealed in a chamber within a plank of imported wood. Relates an
earlier instance, in which a similar specimen was found alive in the timber of
an old desk. Concludes: 'The inferences which may be drawn from these memorable
phenomena, we leave to the Natural Philosopher: in a popular point of view,
they are worth recording for their extreme curiosity'.
Introduces the review with observations on the deficiencies of the many
existing systems of theology in English. Observes: 'Much valuable information
may doubtless be derived from the
LecturesDoddridge,
Philip 1763. A Course of Lectures on the Principal Subjects in
Pneumatology, Ethics, and Divinity: With References to the Most Considerable
Authors on Each Subject, London: J. Buckland, [and 13 others]
CloseView the register entry >> of
Dr.
DoddridgeDoddridge, Philip
(1702–51)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>; but their mathematical form renders their general
tendency injurious, rather than otherwise; as leading inexperienced minds to
subject even the most sublime discoveries of revelation to a mode of proof of
which they are not legitimately capable'. Applauds Watson for his deference to
the Bible, and his 'perfect inaptitude to associate its hallowing truths with
philosophical refinements'. Quotes
Francis Bacon (1st Viscount
St Alban)Bacon, Francis, 1st Viscount St Alban
(1561–1626)
DSB
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>: 'We ought not to attempt to drawn down or submit the
mysteries of God to our reason; but, on the contrary, to raise and advance our
reason to the divine truth'. Includes Bacon's observation that the mixing of
religion and philosophy 'undoubtedly will make an heretical religion and a
fabulous philosophy'. (309) Records that the work 'contains none of those
dangerous concessions on the subject of what is called natural religion, which
several preceding apologists for Christianity have unhappily made'. Summarizes
the argument, noting that the work 'concludes by an answer to miscellaneous
objections; especially those which are deduced from the infant science of
Geology'. (310) Emphasizes the importance of Watson's discussion of the lack of
divine knowledge amongst the ancients, independent of the revelation to the
Jews. Gives extensive extracts from Watson's account of the evidential value of
miracles.
Martin 1822Martin,
Richard 1822. Reasons for Renouncing Unitarianism: Containing
Scriptural and Historical Arguments for the Divinity of Jesus Christ, and
Against the Reasonings of Dr.
Priestly, in his History of Early Opinions, Lewes: Sussex
Press
CloseView the register entry >>
The introduction explains that an earlier extract (Anon, 'Tenacity of Life in Insects', Wesleyan-Methodist Magazine, 3rd ser. 1 (1822), 800) 'had been inserted in several of the
most popular Magazines', and that it had been included in the
Wesleyan Methodist
MagazineArminian Magazine
(1778–97)
Methodist Magazine
(1798–21)
Wesleyan-Methodist Magazine
(1822–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> chiefly because of its usefulness in confounding
infidels. Observes: 'we, of course, could not be reasonably understood to make
ourselves responsible for its correctness. We stated it, as we found it in
other publications; and gave the name of the narrator'. (325) The letter by W.
D. disputes the claims of the earlier extract, suggesting an alternative
explanation of the phenomena observed.
The diarist records that he saw four large whales, observing: 'The noise of
their blowing, and the majestic stateliness of their movements, impressed my
mind with a deep sense of the creative energy of GOD'
(334).
Hint to Christians and Ministers, Suggested by Reading
Captain
Parry'sParry, Sir William Edward
(1790–1855)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>Voyage in Quest of a North-West
PassageParry, William
Edward 1821. Journal of a Voyage for the Discovery of a
North-West Passage from the Atlantic to the Pacific: Performed in the Years
1819–20 in his Majesty's Ships Hecla and Griper, Under the Orders of
William Edward Parry R.N., F.R.S. and Commander of the Expedition. With an
Appendix, Containing the Scientific and Other Observations, London: John
Murray
CloseView the register entry >>
Uses William E Parry's endurance of 'ten thousand nameless ills' for the
'paltry lure' of 'science, honour, [and] fame' to emphasize the obligation of
the Christian to travel widely at the divine command.
Describing Watson's 'Answers to Miscellaneous Objections' observes that
'[w]ithin the last few years the most plausible objections to the Sacred Volume
have been furnished by geological speculations'. Relates that Watson 'has shown
that many of the writers who have been the most forward to object to the Mosaic
account of the creation, have had only a very inadequate conception of that
which the author of the Book of Genesis intended to teach; and that the
principles of Geological Science are by no means sufficiently ascertained, to
warrant those bold conclusions, which men of sceptical minds have so hastily
deduced from them: for it is a fact, that men who are sceptics in religion,
often display a voracious credulity in other subjects'. (378)
Observes of this middle-class local preacher and class-leader: 'His ardent
mind, expecially when engaged in withstanding the profane and ungodly,
frequently exposed him to their insolence and resentment; but he overcame evil
with good. Having much leisure, Mr. L. had acquired a variety of useful
knowledge; and this he employed for the benefit of the public; which in that
retired part of the country rendered him of great value' (412).
Apostrophizes God with the idea that thinking and speaking are inadequate in
relation to him, and that only feeling is appropriate. The poet considers the
possibility of his knowing the details of the sun's attributes, a discovery
which would lead 'Proud Science' to 'immortalize his name';
Galileo
GalileiGalilei, Galileo
(1564–1642)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> would 'sink, forgot[ten]' and
Isaac Newton'sNewton, Sir Isaac
(1642–1727)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> fame
would 'be buried in his tomb' (419). For all such knowledge, he would know no
more of God; however, God is made manifest in Christ.
Theology of Nature, Human Species, Materialism, Immaterialism,
Astronomy, Infidelity, Providence, Biblical Authority, Reason, Genius,
Invention, Machinery, Endeavour, Anthropocentrism, Wonder, Piety, Plurality of
Worlds
Observes that most 'speculative systems of unbelief' undervalue human
nature. Begins by briefly considering materialism and its connection with the
denial of human immortality. Continues: 'Another stratagem of the philosophy
which has no faith, is to persuade us that we are but atoms in the mass of
beings; and that to suppose ourselves noticed by the Great Supreme, either in
judgement or in mercy, is an unfounded and presumptuous conceit'. Observes that
some view 'the moon and stars' as a sign of real human insignificance, not as a
cause of wonder in the providence of divine care. (431) Maintains the truth of
the latter on the authority of the Bible. Asserts the dominant place of the
human species in the created order, and makes a distinction between animal
intelligence and human rationality. Considers that God has 'magnified' the
human species in the variety and superior nature of the pleasures of which it
is susceptible, including the 'pleasures of
CONTEMPLATION' (433). The extent of these are illustrated
by reference to the 'deep and continued abstractions of the profound genius'
and the 'patient labour of the inventor of useful or curious machines' (434).
Presents these observations on the human species as an answer to those who
would 'degrade man; shame him out of his confidence in his Maker, by
instituting a comparison between him and the vastness of inanimate nature'.
(435) Considers that space may be greatly extended and every star be made the
centre of a solar system, without undermining the providential sentiment of the
text of his sermon (Job 7. 17). Argues that the material creation has been
instituted for the benefit of humans. Maintains that the possible existence of
other worlds inhabited by rational beings has no bearing on the status of
humans. Discusses the manner of divine redemption, observing: 'The philosopher
of this world leads us to nature, its benevolent final causes, and kind
contrivances to increase the sum of animal happiness; and there he
stops,—with half his demonstration! But the Apostle leads us to the
Gift bestowed by the FATHER for the sake of the
recovery of man's intellectual and moral nature, and to the Cross
endured by the SON, on this high behalf' (438).
Section: Religious Intelligence
Subsection: Account of Anniversaries Lately Held in London
Gives an extract from a speech by
Rev S CurwenCurwen, Rev S
(fl. 1823)
WM3/2/7bi/2 CloseView the register entry >>
stressing the importance of the combination of mental improvement with
religious instruction in the fare offered by the union's schools. The speaker
considered that education from which religion is excluded was 'no blessing to
the mind'. He observed: 'It is true, indeed, that without religion you
may educate man, and give to a great spirit a brightness which the world
will gaze on with wonder. He may become a mirror of intelligence: but it is for
religious principles to determine what image he reflects: the moral
aspect of an
HERBERTHerbert, Edward, 1st Baron Herbert of Cherbury
(1582?–1648)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, a
LOCKELocke, John
(1632–1704)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>,
a
BOLINGBROKESaint-John, Henry, Viscount Bolingbroke
(1678–1751)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, or a
NEWTONNewton, Sir Isaac
(1642–1727)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>'. (468)
Section: Missionary Notices, Relating Principally to the Foreign Missions
Carried on Under the Direction of the Methodist Conference
Theology of Nature, Feeling, Piety, Natural Economy
Reflects on the great changes wrought by God in nature in the changing
seasons. Observes that creation declares God's 'power, his wisdom, and his
might', and that there is 'enough of good for all'.
Observes: 'From a child she was fond of books; and it was her good fortune
to be pretty well supplied with them. She had within her reach books of
amusement, and books of science, as well as books of piety and devotion: and
she both regarded reading as a duty, and enjoyed it as a very high
gratification' (501–02).
Begins by considering those who have 'set not their heart upon
GOD', for whom God's 'works, magnificent, and numerous, and
curious as they are, bring him not to mind' (512).
Lloyd 1823Lloyd, David
1823. Horae Theologicae; or, A Series of Essays on Subjects Interesting and
Important, Embracing Physics Morals and Theology. Written in Conformity to
Rules Instituted in the Church Union Society of Saint David's Under the
Patronage of its Right Reverend Founder and President, London: printed for
the author
CloseView the register entry >>
Subjects:
Natural Theology
Observes: 'The existence and attributes of GOD, the
necessity and evidences of divine revelation, and the leading doctrines of
christian science and christian experience, form the subjects of
the volume'.
Section: Missionary Notices, Relating Principally to the Foreign Missions
Carried on Under the Direction of the Methodist Conference
Relates: 'Ardent in his attachment to scientific pursuits, it was his
delight to trace the wisdom, power, and goodness of GOD in
every thing around him; and especially to illustrate Revelation by the
discoveries of science' (555).
Observes: 'His mind was well stored with general information on various
subjects of natural and moral philosophy; but especially, with a knowledge of
the Holy Scriptures' (634).
Addresses God: 'For thee we leave our native shore, / [...] In other worlds
thy works explore, / And see thy wonders in the deep'. Responding to the might
of the ocean, considers that 'Faith only' discerns the divine presence. The
poet relies on knowledge of Christ for providential care.
Relates an anecdote of a woman who declared that if she had stolen money as
she stood accused, 'she wished her right arm might rot off her body'.
Shortly afterwards, her arm swelled and became mortified; it was amputated, but
she died of the spreading mortification.
Dubois 1823Dubois, Jean
Antoine 1823. Letters on the State of Christianity in India, in
which the Conversion of the Hindoos is Considered as Impracticable, to which is
Added, a Vindication of the Hindoos, Male and Female, in Answer to a Severe
Attack Made upon Both by the Reverend ***, London: Longman, Hurst, Rees,
Orme, Brown and Green
CloseView the register entry >>
Subjects:
Christianity, Race, Medical Practitioners, Chemistry, Wonder
Critically reviews the argument of the Catholic missionary,
Jean A DuboisDubois, Jean Antoine
(1765–1848)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>,
based on the history of Catholic missions to India, that such endeavours are
doomed to failure, since God has hardened his heart to the Hindus. Observes
that Catholic missionaries 'ingratiated themselves with the natives' of India
by 'their knowledge of astronomy and medicine' (672). Considers that the
Catholic missionaries were foolish to attempt to rival Hinduism in show:
'Gunpowder and fire-works have helped them much as exhibitions in some of their
churches in India; but "with all appliances and means to boot," which have been
furnished by a knowledge of European chemistry and mechanism, their policy
served them little' (675).
Section: Missionary Notices, Relating Principally to the Foreign Missions
Carried on Under the Direction of the Methodist Conference
Records that, as a girl, she 'cultivated a taste for reading and an ardent
desire for mental improvement', reading widely and deeply, and acquiring 'a
correct knowledge of useful science'. Engaging in 'night-reading', she
suffered repeated colds as a result. (709) After a particularly dangerous
illness, she experienced a religious conversion, after which time, 'though she
had still an ardent thirst for reading, the Bible became, as she expressed it,
her "favourite book"' (711–12).
Considers that a partisan attachment to the doctrine of justification by
faith has resulted in a neglect of the doctrine of sanctification: 'it is this
which, on the pretence of magnifying a most essential doctrine, has, in fact,
diffused a mist over the whole field of revelation; and which, like a mist in
nature, not only shrouds the general landscape from all observation, but also
bedims, while it adds to the apparent size of the few objects that continue
visible. It is the same light which reveals the whole, that will render these
last more brightly discernible than before' (724). Urges the analogy in reverse
to establish that whatever tends to distort easily accessible truths will
certainly hide less easily accessible truths. Argues that the doctrine of
regeneration is seen at work in human experience, while that of atonement is
more abstract. The man who 'without looking for a present holiness on earth
[...] pictures for himself a future beatitude in heaven [...] resembles the man
who, across the haze of nature's atmosphere which wraps all things in
obscurity, thinks to descry the realities of the ulterior space, when he has
only peopled it with gratuitous imagery of his own' (725). Draws an analogy
between the Bible and a traveller's guide to establish that trust can be placed
in the narrative of things beyond one's own experience in proportion to the
assessed trustworthiness of the narrative of things within one's own
experience.
Scoresby 1823Scoresby,
William 1823. Journal of a Voyage to the Northern Whale-Fishery,
Including Researches and Discoveries on the Eastern Coast of West Greenland
Made in the Summer of 1822 in the Ship Baffin of Liverpool, Edinburgh:
Archibald Constable and Co.; London: Hurst, Robinson and Co.
CloseView the register entry >>
Copleston
1821, Copleston,
Edward 1821. An Enquiry into the Doctrines of Necessity and
Predestination in Four Discourses Preached before the University of Oxford,
with Notes, and Appendix on the Seventeenth Article of the Church of
England, London: John Murray
CloseView the register entry >>Grinfield
1822a, Grinfield, E
W 1822a. Vindiciæ Analogicæ: A Letter to the Rev.
Edward Copleston, D.D., Provost of Oriel College, Oxford, &c.&c.&c.
on His 'Enquiry into the Doctrines of Necessity and Predestination',
London: T. Cadell
CloseView the register entry >>Copleston
1822, Copleston,
Edward 1822. Remarks upon the Objections Made to Certain Passages
in the 'Enquiry Concerning Necessity and Predestination', London: John
Murray
CloseView the register entry >>Dalby 1822, Dalby, William
1822. A Defence of Some Passages in Dr. Copleston's 'Enquiry into the
Doctrines of Necessity and Predestination', in Reply to a Letter Addressed to
the Author, by the Rev. E. W. Grinfield [...] With an Abstract of the Leading
Argument of the 'Enquiry', Oxford: J. Parker; London: F. C. & J.
Rivington
CloseView the register entry >>Grinfield 1822bGrinfield, E
W 1822b. Vindiciæ Analogicæ: Part the second. Being a
Reply to the Third Section of the Rev. Dr. Copleston's 'Remarks on the
Objections Made to Certain Passages in the Enquiry Concerning Necessity and
Predestination', to Which is Added, an Appendix, Containing the Opinions of
Some Eminent Writers on Analogy, &c, London: T. Cadell
CloseView the register entry >>
Subjects:
Natural Theology, Biblical Authority
Publications cited:
Whately, ed.
1821Whately,
Richard, ed. 1821. The Right Method of Interpreting Scripture: in
what Relates to the Nature of the Deity, and His Dealings with Mankind,
Illustrated in a Discourse on Predestination by Dr. King, Preached at Christ
Church, Dublin, Before the House of Lords, May 15, 1709; with Notes,
London: John Murray
CloseView the register entry >>
Considers at length
Edward
Copleston'sCopleston, Edward
(1776–1849)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> controversial argument, derived from
William KingKing, William
(1650–1729)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, 'that
we have no direct or proper notion of the divine attributes, and
cannot, therefore, argue from them on the points at issue in the Calvinistic
controversy' (742). Observes that the argument assumes 'that the descriptions
which we frame to ourselves of GOD, are taken from the
observations we have made on his works'. Considers that this might be partly
true in the case of heathens, but is not true of those who have revelation.
Asserts: 'Our knowledge of GOD comes from the Scriptures'.
(745)
Christian Retrospect of General Occurrences, Interesting to those who
Fear God, on Account of their Influence on Religion, or on Public Morals and
Happiness. No. XIII. Probable Termination of the War in Spain.—Aspect of
European Affairs.—Insurrection in Demerara
Cultural Geography, Christianity, Superstition, Infidelity,
Nationalism, Providence
Discussing what are viewed as the injurious effects of Catholicism in Spain,
avers that the oscillations in the 'Continental States' between atheism and
superstition are being used by 'Providence' to teach 'the grand lesson, that
national prosperity, happiness, and improvement, can find no solid foundation
but upon the principles of true Christianity'. Observes: 'This lesson is
daily becoming more visible in the disquietudes and wretchedness of every
nation which fights against the truth, and in the contrast which it
presents to those countries which recognize and respect it, in point of public
character, enterprise, commerce, science, and general welfare'. (748)
Reports that the earlier extracted account relating the success of the
expedition to find a north-west passage was erroneous. By delaying other
articles 'less temporary in their character' the editor has been able to
include extracts from the latest reports in order to 'gratify the curiosity of
that large portion of our Readers, who may not otherwise have speedy access to
them' (754).
Describes meeting
William F OwenOwen, William Fitzwilliam
(1774–1857)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
at the house of
John PhilipPhilip, John
(1775–1851)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>. Reports:
'Capt. Owen has been surveying the Eastern Coast of Africa, and has taken
possession, in the name of his Majesty, of a large tract of country which was
willingly ceded to him by the natives, in the vicinity of Delagoa-Bay'
(760).
The first extract relates the circumstances of the death of the Wesleyan
missionary
John
HuddlestoneHuddlestone, John
(fl. 1820–23)
Methodist
Ministers CloseView the register entry >> from the yellow fever prevailing among the Europeans at
Freetown. The introduction to the second extract reports that 'similar
afflictions and bereavements' have affected the
Church Missionary SocietyChurch Missionary Society
CloseView the register entry >>; the
extract relates that the society's committee has consequently subjected 'the
persons destined to that coast to a still more rigorous medical examination',
while noting that 'except in cases which decisively disqualify men for
encountering a tropical climate, so many circumstances tend to modify the
effects of such a climate on particular constitutions, that there is little
certainty in any judgment [sic] which may be previously formed on the subject'
(764).
As a young man Stephens was press-ganged into becoming a soldier in the East
Indies. While there, 'he was a more attentive observer of the works of God both
in nature and providence than might be expected from his avocations and
connexions' (786). On his return he sought to employ himself as a farmer, and
then as a market gardener, before finally becoming gardener to a gentleman. He
was generally known as 'The Gardener'. He was converted after hearing a sermon
on sabbath-breaking, having hitherto sold fruit and vegetables on Sundays.
Christian Retrospect of General Occurrences Interesting to Those who Fear
God, on Account of Their Influence on Religion, or on Public Morals and
Happiness. No. XIV. Insurrection in Demerara.—The Last Session of
Parliament. Advantages of a State of Peace, in Reference to Domestic
Legislation. Recent Alterations in Our Criminal Code. Amended
Marriage-Act
Government, Cultural Geography, Mental Illness, Crime,
Feeling
Discussing the business of
ParliamentHouses of Parliament
CloseView the register entry >> observes: 'The consideration
of the subjects which this vast range of legislation embraces, the conflict of
opinions, the examination of evidence, and the research for principles or
precedents, must, at this ratio, bring into exercise a portion of
intellect, professional and philosophical talent, and personal industry, which
it is impossible to estimate [...]. Of this none but a great and enlightened
nation is capable'. Welcomes a liberalisation in the law respecting the burial
of suicides. Hopes that this will lead juries to be more truthful in their
verdicts at inquests; suspects that they have often been induced 'by mere
feeling, to shut their eyes on evidence'. Observes: 'So lax indeed has opinion
been on this subject, that we have seen it laid down, and that by a Coroner in
his direction to the Jury, that the act of self-destruction is itself a
sufficient proof of lunacy!'. (820)
Introduces an extract detailing the 'the many encouraging appearances, now
first presented, of the opening of the native mind in India'. Refers
particularly to 'the rise, in different parts of India, of persons, who, on the
principles of natural religion only, oppose, in speech and writing, the
reigning superstitions of their countrymen, as impious and abominable'.
The extract begins with instructions for constructing the instrument (an
open upturned phial partially filled with water), but concludes with an appeal
to 'scientific correspondents' to explain how it works.
Imperialism, Medical Practitioners, Epidemiology,
Climatology
Observes that 'more labourers' are needed at the mission, preferably
including 'a Surgeon and a Printer', and continues: 'Epidemic diseases
occasionally occur here, which have been know to carry off many hundreds in a
few months; but I do not apprehend that the climate upon the whole can be
called unhealthy' (836).