Preface
Much need has been felt for a concise, simple statement of the principles which should guide the Lord's people who have had grace and faithfulness given them to "depart from iniquity," in the professing church (which Paul likens to "a great house,") in late years. So many wiles and artifices of the enemy have been set to work to prevent them from walking in the truth, that many have found extreme difficulty in finding God's pathway in such a labyrinth of evil and corruption as is around. It is to be feared that the difficulties have almost deterred many from seeking it further, if not giving up in despair the endeavors to discover God's way.
This being the case, the few following remarks (which contain but an outline of the immense principles treated of) are put forth with the earnest humble hope, that the Lord may use them for His own glory, and make them helpful to the children of God in seeking to discern their pathway amidst the corruptions of Christendom in these last days. A pathway which is so simple and clear to the believer, where there is a single eye; and the truth of which has more deeply convinced, as they have followed it, the souls of those whom a God of truth has in grace guided therein.
These remarks are committed, in all humility, to Him who alone can make them of any value, by using them in the power of His gracious Spirit-to Him whose right it is, with the weak things of the world, to confound the things that are mighty, so that no flesh may glory in His presence.
With the hope that He may use and bless them, they are sent forth to His Church.