PREFACE. Ir has been customary for many years past, for several ministers who reside in the locality where the author is permitted to labour, to deliver a course of Lectures on some great doctrinal or practical subject, at the commencement of the New Year. Each Lecture is always delivered at precisely the same time, in the several places of worship; an arrangement that serves to show,-what is a truthful and pleasing reality,-the cordial oneness of mind, and, as far as is possible, unanimity of action that characterize the brethren whom the providence of God has brought together within a limited circle. The happy |