Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Corinthians, 2nd]]> Bible. Hebrews]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon on "walking in faith" in 1745, and delivered it again in 1747. He begins by citing 2 Corinthians 5:7 and Hebrews 2:4. Note: the title listed on the cover, "De Religione ut negotio," refers to a different sermon. The correct title is listed on the title page.]]>
Note that cover title says Religio ut negotio; this the title the first of two sermons comprising Sermon 62, the second of which is entitled: De orandi in fide.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Romans]]> Bible. Jeremiah]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent wrote this sermon to be delivered before the holy meal, in warning against sin. He begins by citing Romans 7:13, "Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful." He also cites Jeremiah 44:4, "Howbeit I sent unto you all my servants the prophets, rising early and sending them, saying, Oh, do not this abominable thing that I hate."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon in 1745, then delivered it again in 1748.]]>
Contrasts the evils that mankind must endure, outward ones often of short duration and limited damage, with that of Sin which is inward, encourages serious misbehaviours, persistent, and destroys one's good relationship with God and the chance for eternal life. Describes suffering and martyrdom of the holiest people and the sacrifice of Christ himself as evidence of how strenuously the "greatest evil", Sin, must be striven against.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Acts]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent delivered this farewell sermon in 1745, before leaving New Brunswick for Philadelphia. He begins the sermon by referencing Acts 20:31-32, "Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified."]]>
Transcribers remarks:

There may well be a farewell sermon to New Brunswick N.J. somewhere in the sermons yet to be transcribed but this sermon seems to be a draft of the one numbered 136, in which Rev. Tennent bids farewell to his 2nd Presbyterian Church congregation before his departure by ship for an overseas stay.

In Nov. of 1753 he voyaged to Britain to canvass for funds for the College of New Jersey, established as a theological school in 1746. In Sermon 65 as again in no. 136, he mentions having labored already 3 times 3 years (and one year more) beyond the three years that Paul spent in Ephesus. In the draft he mentioned that doors were being shut against his progress. Weary of 3rd and Arch? He bids farewell to his hearers as tho he might never see them again on this earth, understandable when anticipating a sea voyage. I'm thinking that somehow no. 65, a draft of his farewell sermon of 1753, got placed beneath a title page for the earlier New Brunswick presentation. (I hope the text for the New Brunswick farewell turns up.)

In both the actual texts of sermons 65 and 136,

he seems to speak with a different voice, sometimes less fluently given the many textual changes, but more openly and urgently. Text of 65 contains many inserted passages and inserted pages, many deletions, sometimes of entire paragraphs, which were not obliterated but kept legible-- even where he was clearly getting something off his chest-- along with draft sentences and re-wordings on the final pages.

The text for 136 is smoother, with personal comments more tempered, but borrows from the draft, sometimes word-for-word, crosses out material for use in another place in the text, and expands considerably on supporting Rev. Tennent's arguments with evidence from the Bible and, after many urgings that his hearers repent, encourages and comforts those who are struggling to grow in their faith.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. John]]> Bible. Samuel, 1st]]> Bible. Song of Solomon]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains two sermons by Tennent. The first, on Christian obedience to the law, draws from 1 Samuel 15:22, "And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams." In this sermon, Tennent also cites John 14:15-21, about showing God love by obeying his commandments. The second sermon is on Canticles 2. (Canticles is another name for Song of Solomon.)

From dates in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote these sermons in 1745, then delivered on or both of them again in 1748, 1750, 1755, and 1759.]]>
The second sermon begins as an analysis of the famous poem from Song of Songs that begins "I am the Rose of Sharon," in today's thinking manifestly a poem of young love by people at the height of their strength and beauty, but interpreted in Christian doctrine as the mutual love of Christ and his Church. Analysis of the details of the two opening chapters; a few more insights are individually jotted down, but the rest of Canticles 2 is dropped. Instead, the sermon takes up the Parable of the Marriage of the King's Son, Matthew 22:1-14, titled, De veniendo ad nuptias (On coming to marriage) which proves a much more powerful inspiration. Examination and a zealous exhortation follow, especially the list of attributes that recommend Christ as best of all husbands.

The sermon physically interesting also for the ruled lines and penmanship exercises on pages with blank areas, whether by one of the Reverend's children, step-children, or possibly some young visitor.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. John]]> Bible. Luke]]> Bible. Mark]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon by citing Luke 24:25, "Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken." He also cites Mark 9:24 and John 6:44. From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon in 1745, then delivered it again in 1748, 1751, 1755, and 1759.]]>
More interesting for today are the many reasons given for man's slowness, which show Rev. Tennent's years of experience and knowledge of how people's minds work, which in his day he ascribes to the workings of Satan: arrogance, thinking that faith is effortless and that God will forgive anything; unwillingness to believe in the new Covenant of free grace no matter what they hear of it from others until the Holy Spirit opens their hearts to it, and even then they think that all they need is to do good works, influenced by the way we're trained for school and working life. Or, as independent men, they are too proud to want anything "free" and to be beholden to Christ, not to seem self-sufficient. They're reluctant to beg rather than dicker for an agreement man-to-man, and even expect the Almighty to cater to their wants rather than be subordinate to God and his will.

Other men feel they are presumptuous in believing in God's mercy for such as they; having sinned before, they're inferior and dare not hope for justice and mercy later, even with the invitations given in the Bible. Some think they've sinned beyond forgiveness, others that their sins haven't been bad enough to merit mercy. For some, loud laments and breast-beating offer temporary if illusive relief but don't tend toward progress.

For these last, Rev. Tennent begins a section of practical theology: people's excuses and his responses. In this as in other sermons, Rev. Tennent, harsh to backsliders, is patient towards those who honestly struggle with diffidence and wavering faith. His comments on how Satan mitigates sin to the worldly are also interesting: sin is either trifling or non-existent-- and disguises miscreants by rationalizing, even glorifying them, e.g., the spendthrift as generous; the drunkard as sociable; the greedy or miserly as frugal.

MS difficult to read, as the paper of poor quality; lots of show-through from writing on each side of a page. See note on [p. 18] where very faint writing which needed reading with a hand-mirror seems to complete the visibly broken-off text.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Matthew]]> Bible. Luke]]> Bible. James]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains two sermons by Tennent. The first sermon begins with reference to Luke 2:49, “And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?” and Matthew 20:6 "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest."

The second sermon, on faithful prayer, begins with reference to Matthew 21:22, "And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive;" and James 1:6, "But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote these sermons in 1745, then delivered one or both again in 1746 or 1747, 1749, 1753, 1756 and 1760.]]>
how to do so, and why. It reminds us that having regard for God's glory should be the

first and highest responsibility of man, guiding his responsibilities toward his secular work, activities and ambition in society, and the raising of his family.

Includes questions and answers.

De orandi in fide (On faithful praying) discusses in four propositions: the nature of prayer; the kinds of prayer: silent or spoken aloud; in public, private, or secret; what is supposed and implied in praying believingly; and how God encourages us to pray in faith. Rev. Tennent seems to begin with the third proposition: praying believingly. Supposed: faith in the petitioner; subject agreeable to God according to what his revealed will is in his precepts and promises. The petitioner must be humble, wait on the Lord, God's time, tho it be slow; pray conditionally, fervently, towards the glory of God, since an unmet prayer might be for some selfish desire, or a prayer uttered coldly be one which expects denial.

Christ the mediator works powerfully to help the believer; the individual's earthly life and prayers become strengthened and improved in heaven, through Christ's blood-sacrifice. The Holy Spirit energizes prayer and its effects in heaven. God's promises and providences came even at times to the outwardly undeserving (of olden times (Ishmael and Ahab), God offered a better fulfilment to those whose prayers were not answered -- David's illicit chlld died, but the wise and prosperous son Solomon was born later; Moses was refused the Promised Land, but saw it from afar and died to dwell in heaven.

A section of common objections to this message follows, with Rev. Tennent's responses, which build to a compelling list of God's promises to the one who prays with sincerity and earnestly to him.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Matthew]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
In this sermon, dated 1745 or 1746, Tennent expands upon a previous sermon on the nature of baptism, by discussing the subjects of it. He once again begins the sermon with reference to Matthew 28:19-20, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world."]]>
begins with the same wording as does sermon 9 of the same title, but the earlier Sermon 9 gives the historical development of baptism, relates it to Jewish practice and later to the requirements placed on it by Christians, be it for adults out or in the visible church.

Sermon 61 talks in a more practical way. Infants, who would not themselves have the words for accepting the covenant, if they be children of believing parents, would be considered to have the potential to do so. Discussion of the visible and invisible church, the one based on outward statement of belief, and the inward on the heart, with a review of Jewish beliefs. Instructions to parents, as having responsibility for refreshing their own faith and continuing to instruct and raise the young by setting the example of a Christian home.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Matthew]]> Baptism]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent wrote this sermon in 1745 or 1746, on the nature of baptism. He begins with a reference to Matthew 28:19-20, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world."]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Exodus]]> Bible. Mark]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent wrote this sermon on the subject of the sixth commandment, "Thou shalt not kill." He begins his discussion with references to Exodus 20:13 and Mark 10:19.

From dates noted in the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1745, then delivered it again in 1748, 1751, and 1756.]]>
prohibition, first by what it doesn't include, in the cases of the just war, self-preservation, protection of property, or killing by accident, which are outside of this command (which, interestingly is translated in many instances today as "Thou shalt not murder"). Unjust killing is the point at issue. Rev. Tennent discusses suicide,, also condemned as self-murder, taking the individual from a chance to be useful to society, and from the obligations due loved ones; suicide is an affront and dishonor to God, destroying the body as the likeness of God. and sending the soul to extinction. Murder disrupts society by undermining the peace and the power of the magistrate to decide life & death, once individuals take matters into their own hands. The Reverend argues against private duels and the reputation they have for being honorable, but does admit that single combat to end a war might be allowable, as with David & Goliath.

Other behaviors can tend toward self-murder: putting oneself at unnecessary physical risk, being careless of nourishment--whether over-eating or alcoholism, the danger of despair and the loss of appetite and therefore health. He mentions mental tendencies that kill off the soul: meanness and lack of compassion for others, either with refusal to help or in venting anger and reproach on others. Anger is a human behavior and must be channeled and regulated toward worthy objects, Reproach is just, also, if it wakes up

and educates the one it's directed at to improve his behavior and usefulness, and to glorify his creator.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Exodus]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains two sermons by Tennent. The sermons are closely related; Tennent wrote the first sermon about the preamble to the ten commandments as laid out in Exodus, and the second sermon on the first commandment, "Thou shalt have no other gods before me."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote these sermons in 1745, then delivered one or both again in 1748, 1756, and 1760.]]>
The short sermon on the First Commandment

discusses both the commandment itself, and the traps of atheism, the profane, and idolatry that threaten disobedience to it.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Genesis]]> Bible. Peter, 1st]]> Bible. Epistle of John, 1st]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains two sermons by Tennent. The first sermon, on the subject of God's "shield and reward", begins by citing Genesis 15. The second sermon, on the subject of following in Christ's footsteps, begins with references to 1 Peter 2:21 and 1 John 2:6.

From dates noted on the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote these sermons in 1745, then delivered one or both again in 1749, 1752, 1755, and 1758,]]>
The second sermon, De sequendo vestigia Christi (On following Christ's footsteps) is quite brief meant to inspire efforts of believers not for the same perfection and miracle-working of Jesus, but to imitate his patience and self-denial, doing good in everyday life and rejecting the worldly.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. John]]> Bible. Lamentations]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent wrote this sermon on the Paraclete, which in Christian theology, refers to the Holy Spirit as an advocate, counselor or comforter. Tennent refers to the Bible verses John 16:7, Lamentations 1:16, and John 14:16 in his discussion of this subject.

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, then delivered it again in 1746, 1748, 1751, 1757, and 1761.]]>
Cites many instances from Scripture on this power as well as on the absence of comfort for those who live wayward lives-- being too satisfied with the worldly and short-term, and heedless of the greater comfort and more reliable help under trials given by Christ the Mediator.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Proverbs]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This sermon, on the subject of giving one's heart to God, appears to have gone through several edits, and has some pages inserted into the middle of the manuscript. The first page of the insert cites Proverbs 23:26, "My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, then delivered it again in 1749 and 1752.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Peter, 2nd]]> Bible. Jude]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon on the topic of "evil angels" by citing 2 Peter 2:4, "For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;" and Jude 6, "And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their proper dwelling—these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, then delivered it again in 1747, 1750, and 1756.]]>
Also presents a powerful rebuttal of Satan's power in a splendid list of comparisons: "what tho" Satan has a given power, God has a greater power, as long as congregants earnestly repent in mind and heart, with a repeated warning that as God's justice punished the angels, they should expect worse if through backsliding and apostasy humans, having heard the Gospel, abandon it.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Peter, 1st]]> Bible. Corinthians, 1st]]> Bible. Timothy, 2nd]]> Bible. Ephesians]]> Bible. John]]> Bible. Galatians]]> Bible. Romans]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains two sermons by Tennent. The first sermon, on the subject of being called to the ministry, begins with references to 1 Peter 2:9, 1 Corinthians 1:26, 2 Timothy 1:9, and Ephesians 4:1. The second sermon, on the subject of adoption, begins with references to John 1:12, Ephesians 1:5, Galatians 3:26, and Romans 8:15.

From dates noted on the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote these sermons in 1744 or 1745, then delivered one or both again in 1747, 1748, 1750, 1755, 1757, 1759, and 1762.]]>
On the efficacious or effective call from God analyses the ways humans can be called: universal, a reminder of the vast workings of God as we see them in nature; common, as a calling to high office in church or state; or as the presentation of the promises of Christ for man's consideration; or special, efficacious, effectual, a call directly to the Elect, incorporating the motivating power of the Holy Spirit to inspire and build their faith and what they can accomplish through it.

Hearing the word is the instrumental cause, but the acceptance of the word is the efficient cause, through which the Holy Spirit works both to realize one's sinfulness, despair and anxiety, overcomes his stubbornness, and brings him to an acceptance of the worth of redemption and the will to seek it and take it on board.

The second sermon describes forms of earthly adoption, then sets forth how people become adopted by God, first by their realized need of him, then by God's grace, by the operation of the Holy Spirit, by faith, engendering love and obedience. Examination and review.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. James]]> Bible. Psalms]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon on the topic of bad language by citing Psalm 39:1, "I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me" and James 1:26, " If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, and delivered it again in 1748, 1749, and 1759.]]>
Considers the malignity that the tongue so quickly comes out with in human affairs and disputes. Rev. Tennent weighs in especially invoking the name of God, owed all our love and respect as the source of all we have and are, by swearing to a lie in his name, taking His name through thoughtless blasphemy to strengthen an argument in every-day conversation, or in self-aggrandizement, comic sketches, or in making fun of God and the Scriptures.

He then details these damaging behaviors to our neighbors, principally the various forms of lying: lying to conceal the truth, little white lies, slandering the innocent, or those in authority, or of another faith, which leads to lying in court cases or on contracts, which destroy trust and disturb society and the public peace, and against what human speech was designed to do in promoting peace and progress. Boasting is another fault; one's deportment should be modest and reticent to avoid rash speech and preserve the peace.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Hebrews]]> Bible. Matthew]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon, on the subject of "whoredom", by citing Hebrews 13:4, "Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge," and Matthew 5:27-28, "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, and delivered it again in 1748.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Timothy, 2nd]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon on Christian soldiers by citing 2 Timothy 2:3-4, "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier."

From dates noted on the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, then delivered it again in 1746 or 1747, and 1750.]]>
Offers a clear presentation of what motivates Reverend Tennent himself to look askance at worldly preoccupations and attractions. In other sermons he identifies himself as a voice crying in the wilderness, a sentinel on a hill giving warning, and here, as an ongoing soldier of Christ, wearing the insignia of Christ and thereby concentrating on the task at hand and committed to the relentless battles against Satan.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Timothy, 1st]]> Bible. Corinthians, 2nd]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon about the gospel by citing 2 Corinthians 4:4, "In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." He also cites 1 Timothy 1:11, "According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust."

From dates noted in this manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, then delivered it again in 1758.]]>
The sermon bears preaching dates of 1744 and 1758, which may point to added material. The extant MS seems to be in least two parts, as many pages are of uneven size. Of the two discernable parts or copies (?) which are intermingled, one bears the opening citation from 1 Timothy at the top of right-hand pages like a running title, and those pages are numbered. The other sequence has unnumbered pages and no top-of-page reference.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Thessalonians, 1st]]> Bible. Peter, 1st]]> Bible. John]]> Bible. Corinthians, 1st]]> Bible. Hebrews]]> Bible. Proverbs]]> Bible. Galatians]]> Bible. Psalms]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains two sermons by Tennent. He begins the first sermon, on the topic of sanctification, with references to 1 Peter 1:2, John 17:17, 1 Thessalonians 4:3, 1 Corinthians 6:11, and Hebrews 12:14. He begins the second sermon, on the topic of peace, with references to Proverbs 3:17, John 16:33, 1 Peter 5:14, Galatians 6:16, John 14:27, and Psalms 16:5.

From dates noted on the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote these sermons in 1744, then delivered one or both again in 1746, 1747, 1748, 1750, 1755, 1757, and 1758.]]>
Rev. Tennent expands the knowledge of consecration from things or individuals set apart from the mass of ordinary people, e.g. temple utensils or boys like Samuel being dedicated to the temple, to the possibility of attaining sanctification by ordinary believers operating in everyday life.

He reviews ways of spotting false impressions of sanctification, what its true nature is, why we need it, and how it comes from God. One way is through peace: signs of false peace and true peace, living peacefully and seeking peace.

Both sermons include at least one question and answer and suggestions for examination of self.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Colossians]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon by citing Colossians 3:11, "Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all," and Colossians 1:19, "For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell."

From dates noted in the manuscript it appears that Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, then delivered it again in 1747 and 1749.]]>
explores the concept of fullness or completion in Christ, the many ways he is the all and in all, quoting either in full text or with notes and prompts

drawn from a dense forest of Bible citations from both Testaments. Talks of the saintly people who follow him and the reasons for their strong belief: their need of him and their hope of salvation. Provides an examination or set of questions and answers for people to weigh their lives and beliefs.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Philippians]]> Bible. John]]> Bible. Peter, 1st]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains two sermons written by Tennent. The first sermon, on the topic of salvation, begins with reference to Phillippians 2:12,"Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." The second sermon, on the topic of saintly perseverance, begins with reference to John 10:27-28, Phillippians 1:6, and 1 Peter 1:5.

From dates noted on the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote these sermons in 1744 and delivered one or both again in 1750.]]>
The second sermon urges the constant work necessary to commit to seeking salvation and gain it. This was a work in progress; ideas, lists, and Bible references continue beyond the closing pages to the back cover.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Philippians]]> Bible. Hebrews]]> Bible. Mark]]> Bible. Matthew]]> Bible. Corinthians, 1st]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains two sermons by Tennent. The first sermon, about exaltation, begins by citing Philippians 2:9-11 and Hebrews 2:9. The second sermon, about the resurrection of Christ, begins by citing Mark 16:9, Matthew 28:6, and 1 Corinthians 15.

From dates noted in the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote these sermons in 1744, then repeated one or both in 1746 or 1747, 1748, 1749, 1755, and 1759.]]>
The second sermon discusses Christ's resurrection from Bible evidence and by the impact it can have on ordinary lives as both a warning to the unconverted and in strengthening faith and hope in believers.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Philippians]]> Bible. Corinthians, 2nd]]> Bible. Isaiah]]> Bible. Galatians]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains two sermons written by Tennent. The first sermon, about the humiliation of Christ, begins by citing the Bible verses Philippians 2:6-8, 2 Corinthians 8:9 and Isaiah 53:2-3. The second sermon, about love, joy and peace, begins by citing Galatians 5:22.

From dates noted in the manuscript, it appears that Tennent wrote these sermons in 1744, then delivered one or both again in 1745 or 1746, 1747, 1753, 1756, 1761, and 1763.]]>
The extremity of that inherited sin made it necessary for Christ the Mediator to suffer the extremity of insult and crucifixion to redeem his people. His incarnation is key: presentation of the particularly demanding, even cruel aspects of being made flesh.

The second sermon assigns our duty to emulate Christ on earth and to share glory with him in the hereafter. Lists the qualities of love [ED: eros versus agape?] and of true and false joy and peace.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Ephesians]]> Bible. Hebrews]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript includes two of Tennent's sermons, both of which, like the two sermons that precede them (De stando and De lumbis veritats circumsinctis), are ruminations on Ephesians 6:14. The first sermon also references Hebrews 10:23, "Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised)."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote these sermons in 1744, then delivered one or both again in 1749 and 1759.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Ephesians]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript includes two of Tennent's sermons, both of which ruminate on Ephesians 6:14, "Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote these sermons in 1744, then delivered one or both again in 1749 and 1759.]]>
The second sermon details and explicates the metaphorical armor needed for going out and meeting the varied challenges of earthly life.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Ephesians]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent wrote this sermon on a peaceful conscience in 1744, and begins by citing Ephesians 5:15, "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise."

Note: Two more sermons are listed on the front cover, but only one looks to be present. It is possible this manuscript is a fragment.]]>
A short discussion of peace follows (see Sermon 31, On peace with one's neighbors) for an extended presentation, with the Gospel to be preferred to worldly ways of seeking comfort.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Ephesians]]> Bible. Hebrews]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains two sermons. The first sermon begins with reference to Ephesians 4:30, "And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption." The second sermon begins with reference to Hebrews 12:5, "And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him."

Note: The title of the second sermon is listed differently on the title page than on the cover; it translates roughly to "About Divine Chastisement."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennant wrote these sermons in 1747, then delivered one or both of them again in 1752.]]>
On title page: First title is the same. Second title: On Divine chastisements.

Hurriedly written, with lots of abbreviated words and misspellings. Practical theology. Simpler text and arguments, as tho written more as a set of prompts or reminders of points either planned or having been covered.

Presents the Holy Spirit as aware of insincerity and sins and grieved by them: the ways of making a permanent pledge or sealing, and how sealing is mpeded, and the guarantee of redemption that sealing by the Holy Spirit brings to the repentant and the true believer.

The second sermon is in fact on Divine chastisements, but it does bring in advice on seeking wisdom. Advice is to heed chastisements because they make sin bitter to us and we decide to learn from chastisements, repent, and reform. Requires self-examination of conscience. Why do people scorn chastisement? Failure to examine; barriers to learning: being habituated to sin and enjoying it; worldly pleasures; seeing others flout punishment or flourish despite wrongdoing; personal hardship and suffering of different kinds Gives special attention to Psalm 90:12:. Seeking wisdom.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Ephesians]]> Bible. Revelation]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon on the punishment of sin by citing two Bible verses: Ephesians 2:3, "Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others;" and Revelation 3:18, "Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, then delivered it again in 1748 and 1751.]]>
However, if a believer sins, punishments are proportionate to the crime like a father's chastening, meant for benefit and good.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Galatians]]> Bible. Luke]]> Bible. Hebrews]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
The front cover of this manuscript lists three sermons, all on the subject of redemption, but it is not clear if there is more than one sermon present in the pages that survive. The first page is torn, but lists Galatians 3:13 and several other Bible verses. Other verses mentioned in the text include Luke 1:71, Galatians 3:13, and Hebrews 9:14.]]>
Sermon 38 reviews the types of earthly ransom, and, closely-argued, asserts that the son of God achieved eternal ransom or redemption for believers beyond what any earthly ransom could match. The discussion of ransom, of actions that might bring about ransom: free pardon, payment, satisfaction, are also mentioned in Sermon 36, On the Beauty of Christ." Some of the subtopics here,-- the meritorious cause, the instrumental cause, the effective cause-- recall the same breakdown at the end of Sermon 36, as causes of justification.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Corinthians, 2nd]]> Bible. Isaiah]]> Bible. Hebrews]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon, on the timing of salvation, by citing 2 Corinthians 6:1-2 "For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." He also cites Isaiah 55:6, "Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near," and Hebrews 3:15, "While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, then delivered it again in 1745 or 1746, 1750, 1751, 1761, and 1763.]]>
The apostle Paul felt the nearness of God and that the Second Coming was close at hand. Rev. Tennent and many others during the spiritual revival of the First Great Awakening in the American colonies during the 18th century felt with some urgency that the Second Coming could happen at any time. The occasion in 2 Corinthians was not only "kairos" but "euprosdektos kairos," the most appropriate occasion.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Corinthians, 1st]]> Bible. Galatians]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Two of Tennent's sermons are included in this manuscript. The first sermon, dated 1744 or 1745, is about the sacrament, and begins with a reference to 1 Corinthians 11:24, "And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me."

The second sermon, on the beauty of Christ, begins with a reference to Galatians 2:16, "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified." This sermon is not dated, but the years 1751 and 1756 are noted on the back of the manuscript.]]>
In the second sermon, the Reverend discusses justification and salvation, illustrating the fate of sinners as if before a court of law. Contrasted against the sinner's uncertainty or want of faith, portrays the free grace and pardon of God, and the elegance of the redeeming and mediating powers of Christ. See also Sermon 38.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Corinthians, 1st]]> Bible. Galatians]]> Bible. Hebrews]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon on the Christian course by citing 1 Corinthians 9:24, Galatians 5:7, and Hebrews 12:12.

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, and delivered it again in 1746 and 1750.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Corinthians, 1st]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon on the holy judges of the world by citing 1 Corinthians 6:2, "Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters?"

From dates noted in the manuscript, it appears that Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, and delivered it again in 1749 and 1759.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Corinthians, 1st]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sacramental sermon by citing 1 Corinthians 11:26, "For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, and delivered it again in 1759.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Romans]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon on proclaiming Christ by citing Romans 13, which touches on Christians' relationships to government, the obligation to love one's neighbors, and the urgency of walking with God.

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744 and delivered it again in 1748.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Romans]]> Bible. Psalms]]> Bible. Hebrews]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon, on peace with one's neighbor, by citing
Romans 12:18, Psalms 34:14, and Hebrews 12:14.

From dates noted in the manuscript, it looks like Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, then delivered it again in 1747, 1753, and 1756.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Romans]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon about original sin by citing Romans 5:12, "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, and delivered it again in 1746, 1748, 1750, and 1753.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Romans]]> Bible. Ephesians]]> Bible. John]]> Bible. Matthew]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon, about the impotence of man, by citing Romans 5:6, Ephesians 2:1, John 15:5, and Matthew 7:18.

From dates noted in the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, then delivered it again in 1746, 1747, 1748, 1751, 1755, and 1760.]]>
Reverend Tennent felt that this topic needed periodic airing given THE TEMPTATIONS he saw around him in a growing colonial city. He preached this sermon seven times during his ministry.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Luke]]> Bible. Ephesians]]> Bible. Zechariah]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains three sermons. Tennent begins the first sermon, about drunkenness, by citing Luke 21:3-4. He begins the second sermon, comparing hope to a helmet, by citing Ephesians 6:17. Finally, he begins the third sermon, comparing Christ to a fountain, by citing Zechariah 13:1.

From dates noted on the manuscript, it looks like the first and second sermons were delivered together, in 1744 or 1745, and the third shortly after. One or all were also delivered in 1748, 1749, 1757 and 1760.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Luke]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon about immoderate care for worldly things by citing Luke 10:41-42, "And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, and delivered it again in 1753 and 1760.]]>
A short sermon on Luke 10:41-42, and the contrasting behaviors of Martha and Mary. Jesus chides Martha for being too concerned about household matters, and says that Mary, sitting at his feet and and hearing what he has to say, is doing the one thing needful.

The original pages of the manuscript are headed Luke 10:41-42; there is an insert of one folded page written on all four sides, which is almost an outline or set of notes; it is much more hastily written, with partial phrases and one-word prompts, headed [verse] 42 only. The insert does include a brief section of typical objections or counter-arguments that hearers would have raised, with the Reverend's answers.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Isaiah]]> Bible. Ezekiel]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon about the Sabbath by citing the following Bible verses:

Isaiah 58:13-14, "If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words: Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it."

Ezekiel 23:38, "Moreover this they have done unto me: they have defiled my sanctuary in the same day, and have profaned my sabbaths."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, and delivered it again in 1745, 1747, 1751, 1755, and 1760.]]>
Includes arguments from the apostles and the church fathers, and, in the 18th century, under threat by sins of commission and omission, how best to spend Sunday and celebrate the Sabbath in Rev. Tennent's own time.

He considers non-religious activities, recreation, even walking for pleasure, sinful, as he does sports, plays (uncertain whether he means games or stage-plays), and "pastimes." Sundays should be spent in religion: in public worship, with zealous prayer and psalm-singing, preceded by preparation of heart and mind through quiet prayer, meditation and reading of the Scriptures. while at home. After the end of public worship should follow more prayer, meditation, and examination of self. Neglect of these behaviors and of family prayer is also sinful. Staying away from church unnecessarily offends the Lord. Staying away to attend to worldly affairs is sinful, as is attending church in body but with mind and heart elsewhere. Allowing family members or others we're responsible for to sin is itself a sin, as it breaks the 4th Commandment and sets a bad example. Performance of religious obligations keeps religion in mind and helps people lead honorable lives in honor of God and Christ.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Song of Solomon]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon, which compares the Holy Spirit to wind and the Church to a garden, by citing Canticles (Song of Solomon) 4:16, "Awake, O north wind; and come, thou south; blow upon my garden, that the spices thereof may flow out. Let my beloved come into his garden, and eat his pleasant fruits."

From dates noted in the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, and delivered it again in 1746, 1751 and 1760.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Proverbs]]> Bible. Ephesians]]> Bible. Hosea]]> Bible. Romans]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains two sermons. Tennent begins the first sermon, on cognition, by citing Proverbs 22:17, Hosea 4:6, and Proverbs 12:3-9. He begins the second sermon, on temptations by the devil, by citing Ephesians 5:6-15, and later Romans 8:6.

From dates noted on the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote these sermons in 1744 or 1745, then redelivered one or both in 1747 and 1759.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Psalms]]> Bible. Peter, 1st]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon on the heedfulness of morality by citing two Bible verses, 1 Peter 5:7 "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you;" and Psalms 37:5 "Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass."

From dates noted on the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, and delivered it again in 1746 or 1747, 1749, 1750, 1756, and 1758.]]>
Evidence of God's oversight for us-- the intricacy and capabilities of our bodies; that we live in Christianity and religious freedom; our parents' care for us; our training and growth in religion; God's decisions about the afflictions and life-spans that we may have; most of all, by the growth of moral law under God with the rewards in adhering to it (which allows us better to bear the afflictions of life), and the punishments for ignoring it or abandoning it. Respect for authority comes down through that vested by God in our rulers and governors and brings peace for society and justice for the wrongdoer.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Chronicles, 2nd]]> Bible. Exodus]]> Bible. Jeremiah]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this preparatory sermon concerning covenanting with God by citing Exodus 24:8, "And Moses took the blood, and sprinkled it on the people, and said, Behold the blood of the covenant, which the Lord hath made with you concerning all these words." He also references Chronicles and Jeremiah.

From dates noted on the manuscript, it appears that Tennent wrote this speech in 1744, and delivered it again in 1746, 1749, 1750, and 1756.]]>
The Latin word "pango" imagines the covenant permanently recorded; one thinks of it publically displayed: physically carved in stone or forged in bronze. The sermon celebrates the seeking of the compact with God rather than with man.

In remembrance of better days before the captivity, and of the exile and troubles they met while not at home, the ancient Israelites felt the need of setting things right all the more. Rev. Tennent matches the grief and anxieties of the long-ago with his own times and in this lengthy sermon urges the utmost penitence and repledging to peace, to God and to the covenant of grace.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Chronicles, 2nd]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
Tennent begins this sermon with the Bible verse 2 Chronicles 7:14, "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." He urges his congregation to practice earnest humility and heart-felt prayer, and to strive for serious reformation in the face of troubled times - here identified as warfare with France and the withdrawal of God in dissatisfaction with his followers, who have fallen away from established religion and clear-cut truths into Moravianism and other errors. Tennent reminds the Brethren of their obligations to God and his goodness in the face of man's sinfulness.

From dates noted on the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, and delivered it again in 1747, 1751, 1755, and 1763.]]>
sets forth the three conditions which show repentance under affliction: humility, prayer, and reform, and the three blessings that God offers in response: a hearing, forgiveness, and deliverance.

Humility requires a candid confession of sin, not dissembling it, lying about it, trying to defend it, blaming it on someone else-- when what is required is to bear chastisement patiently. Prayer is an awareness that God has turned his face away from the sufferer; prayer longs for the face of God once more, and the one petitioning must make his case openly and in detail and in lamentation before God, who knows everything already but must hear it from us so that we understand our wrongs clearly and with faith in God's deliverance. Reformation demands that we abjure sin. We must be sincere in our praying so that God hears us and we are not shut out but are forgiven if we mend our ways, otherwise our prayers will have no merit.

This sermon was given under looming threat. There had been intermittent wars with France over whether the French or the British would rule North America.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Samuel, 2nd]]> Bible. Proverbs]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
In this sermon, Tennent discusses the idea of God as a fortified tower, inspired by these two Bible verses: 2 Samuel 22:51, "He is the tower of salvation for his king: and sheweth mercy to his anointed, unto David, and to his seed for evermore;" and Proverbs 18:10, "The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe." He describes the qualities of a fortified tower in human warfare, and extends the image to a spiritual tower with the larger powers of God available through faith in "this tyme of common danger."

From dates noted on the manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744 and delivered it again in 1746, 1747, and 1761. The common danger he refers to could include border clashes, skirmishes with Native Americans, and or/tensions between British and French colonists.]]> from warfare and the worldly.  Hermits go to the high mountains to concentrate on God as center of their lives; ordinary folk or tribesmen caught up in danger and conflict seek God as a fortress.  Is God such?  Or not?   This sermon is set in the turbulent world of David against Saul and the Philistines, but we get as well an idea of historical warfare into the 18th century: the construction of towers, thick-walled to fend off battering rams, built on rock to defeat being undermined, built aloft for a good view of surrounding territory and enemy movements, with mention of half-moons and counterscarps. 

But towers can fall short of complete protection:  if the watchmen are asleep, if food supplies and water run out; by treachery; by ruin. 
Faith and hope in an unfailing, loving, protecting God are the strongest defenses against the metaphorical attacks of evil, but our faith must be active, with reliance on God's wisdom.  Instances of God's help follow, with his successes over the machinations of men, having their crimes turn against them, and devising an escape for the afflicted.  Ends with advice to the distressed.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Samuel, 2nd]]> Bible. Matthew]]> Bible. Samuel, 1st]]> Bible. John]]> Bible. Hebrews]]> Presbyterian Church]]>
This manuscript contains two sermon topics in three presentations, perhaps presaging papers for a workshop or retreat. Tennent begins by citing 2 Samuel 15:26, "But if he thus say, I have no delight in thee; behold, here am I, let him do to me as seemeth good unto him." He goes on to cite further verses from Matthew, Samuel, John, and Hebrews.

The first presentation, addressed to "sirs," is almost a tutorial on how to weaken sin and deprive it of nourishment and its rule over people, with a questionnaire for self-examination and encouragement for those struggling. The second presentation talks of resignation, and is addressed to "dear sirs" with a "profession," possibly an audience of fellow ministers. The third paper, on submissive resignation, explores human psychological reactions as they make afflictions worse, and reminds the congregation to refer all to God and Christ, to help regulate and calm overreactions to troubles at their onset, and to ease the bearing of them over time.

From dates noted on the manuscript, it seems Tennent wrote these pieces in 1744, and returned to them again in 1745, 1746, 1748, 1749, 1756, 1762 and 1763.]]>
The second sermon, De resignatione divine voluntate (On resignation to the Divine Will)  outlines how people arrive at resignation:  first the sense of affliction, then the attempt to pray the affliction away, then realization of the right-ness of the circumstance, and finally consent to the will of the Creator and hope in him.]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Second Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.)]]> Sermons]]> Tennent, Gilbert, 1703-1764]]> Great Awakening]]> Presbyterians]]> Bible. Genesis]]> Bible. Luke]]> Bible. Revelation]]> Bible. Isaiah]]>
Tennent wrote this sermon about the ability of man to commune with God's holy spirit. He begins by citing the following Bible verses:

Genesis 6:3, "And the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years."

Luke 19:42, "Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes."

Revelation 22:11, "He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still."

Isaiah 55:6, "Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near."

From dates noted on this manuscript, it appears Tennent wrote this sermon in 1744, and delivered it again in 1745.]]>
Rev. Tennent breaks his presentation into four topics: 
 1. When the Spirit may be said to strive with us, on our side, in a succinct yet comprehensive statement of a right heart and mind realizing visible prosperity:   
2. investigation of the truth of this proposition, illustrated by negative instances, e.g., Pharaoh's hardening of heart and Saul's paranoia in which both powerful men lost the favor of God;
3. the reasons why the Holy Spirit ceases to reach out to people, and
4. the reasons for coming to this terrible decision.

The flow of the text is broken by long-ago mistakes in the re-insertion and sequencing of loose pages, plus newer or revised pages inserted as well which require careful attention to page-to-page syntax.  ]]> Sermons]]> Manuscripts]]> ]]>