gion is low, and error,
and vice, and ungodliness,
prevail, 378
Times of reviving, 378
When the friends of truth unite
for its maintenance, either in
an incorporate, or other cooperative
capacity, 378

CONCLUSION.

The exercise important, 379
advantageous, 379
necessary, 379
It should therefore be observed, 380

APPENDIX.

A, 381
B, 383
C, 391
D, 393

THE ORDINANCE OF COVENANTING.

INTRODUCTION.

To illustrate the nature and present the claims of an observance so
carefully kept by many of the best of our race as religious Covenanting,
is an attempt so inviting as to seem not unworthy of the application of
the greatest diligence and care, and the most varied and extensive
resources of the human mind. What the word of God unfolds concerning it,
is addressed to the most resolute consideration of all, and is capable
of engaging the most extensive and prolonged investigation. And yet,
though none have found this subject, like all God's judgments, else than
a great deep, still in meditating upon it, the ignorant have been
brought to true knowledge, and the wise have increased in wisdom. "The
secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his
covenant."[1] Impressions of its importance have universally continued
to appear on the heart of man; but with that varied indistinctness which
may, and ought to be remedied, those have been marked. In the Scriptures
alone, its precise character is drawn. Mutual federal engagements,
concerning things religious and civil, whether entered into merely by
simple promise, or confirmed by solemn oath, have been made from the
highest antiquity to the present. The hostility to some such
engagements, and also the proud disregard for their obligations, which
have been evinced by some in all ages, demand a most careful examination
into their nature and design. And the delightful approval of conscience
awarded to right-heartedness in making and fulfilling such of these as
were warranted, gives a reason for the careful study of their character,
the most pleasing and satisfactory. Furnished with the key of Scripture,
approaching the subject, we are enabled to open the mysteries i