James A. Spurgeon, Printed Letter to the members of the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Southwark, 1 February 1874.

Metropolitan Tabernacle,

Newington, S. E.,

February 1st, 1874.

Dearly Beloved Friends,

         That our God has richly blessed us a Church we most devoutly recognise, and for it we thank Him this day. But we are, I think, upon the verge of another outpouring, richer than our experience has ever known, and in order to prepare for this I wish you to join in a week of Special Services to stir up each other to a higher life before God in Christ Jesus, and a richer enjoyment of our blessings in the Gospel. Make a point of attending the Services and lay out your week’s plans for this purpose. We are all anxious, I know, for the salvation of sinners, and we believe there is a harvest waiting to be reaped, if we put in the sickle and toil faithfully in prayer and the preaching of the truth by lip and life. Let us unite as the heart of man for this good work for the Lord, and we shall have our desire granted to us. Make Special Prayer for some persons of your own kindred or acquaintance; tell them of it and use direct efforts to bring them to immediate decision for Jesus. The whole land is stirred with longings and expectations. God help us to go up and possess it for the Lord. Begin at home, and expand your desires and exertions through the neigbourhoods where you reside. Let each man build over against his own house, and we shall speedily girdle this neighbourhood with loving words and deeds, and hold it in a sacred circle of affection as an heritage for our Lord.

         May we ask and receive, seek and find, knock and have it opened unto us, ever prays

                                 Your loving Pastor,

                                             James A. Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon Letters, RG no. 1132, American Baptist Historical Society Archives, Atlanta.