An Alarm to the Unconverted (By Joseph Alleine)

There is no entering into heaven but by the strait passage of the second birth; without holiness you shall never see God. Therefore, give yourselves unto the Lord now. Set yourselves to seek Him now. Set up the Lord Jesus in your hearts, and set Him up in your houses. Kiss the Son and embrace the tenders of mercy; touch His sceptre and live; for why will ye die?

I beseech you to permit a friendly plainness and freedom with you in your deepest concern. I am not playing the orator to make a learned speech to you, nor dressing the dish with eloquence in order to please you. These lines are upon a weighty errand indeed - to convince and convert and save you. I am not baiting my hook with rhetoric, nor fishing for your applause, but for your souls. My work is not to please you, but to save you; nor is my business with your fancies, but with your hearts. If I have not your hearts, I have nothing. If I were to please your ears, I would sing another song. If I were to preach myself, I would steer another course. I could then tell you a smoother tale; I would make pillows for you and speak peace.

But how much better are the wounds of a friend than the fair speeches of the harlot, who flatters with her lips till the dart strike through the liver? I were to quiet a crying infant, I might sing him into a happier mood or rock him asleep; but when the child is fallen into the fire, the parent takes another course; he will not try to still him with a song or trifle. I know, If we succeed not with you, you are lost; if we cannot get your consent to arise and come away, you will perish forever. No conversion - no salvation! I must get your good-will or leave you miserable.

And now, beloved, let me know your mind. What do you intend to do? Will you go on and die or will you turn and lay hold on eternal life? How long will you linger in Sodom? How long will you halt between two opinions? Have you not yet resolved whether Christ or Barabbas, whether bliss or torment, whether this vain and wretched world, or the paradise of God be the better choice?

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This Page Title – An Alarm to the Unconverted by Joseph Alleine The Wicket Gate Magazine "A Continuing Witness". Internet Edition number 47 – placed on line March 2004 Wicket Gate contact address – Mr Cliff Westcombe cw@wicketgate.co.uk If you wish to be notified when each new edition goes on line please send an e-mail to the above address Magazine web address – www.wicketgate.co.uk Labelled with ICRA