[May 31, 1804] — to George Roberts

FROM THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF 1804 TO

THE END OF 1806

May 31, 1804 - December 27, 1806

CHAPTER 9

George Roberts had been a problem to Asbury. For some reason Asbury thought Roberts had been thinking of becoming an Episcopal preacher in New York. In this letter Asbury feels that Roberts is not willing to go where he may be sent. However, Roberts did move to Baltimore in 1804. He stayed there until 1806 and then located to practice medicine and support his family in Philadelphia. He also became a local preacher and was loyal to the church. He had a record of devoted service.

[SOUDERSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA]

[May 31, 1804]¹

[TO GEORGE ROBERTS]

My dear Brother:

I charge thee before God and the Lord Jesus Christ to preach the Word. If you love me, now is the time to show it. I fear there is something at the bottom. What have you wanted? The earth is the Lord’s and the fulness thereof. How do you know but this is a judicial dispensation to beat off your hold from earth. You wrote me you were studying Physic. I felt! Your brethren have heard and felt, and have had their confidence perhaps shaken. What is hidden in our Connection? God will correct us by each other. If you leave the work, if you dare, let God himself vindicate his own cause. How will your enemies colour away —— and say you meant to settle in Philadelphia, locate, and attach yourself to those people. If you do not consent to take Baltimore 3 or six months as your family will permit, I prophesy evil concerning you and your house and when I find men will not be persuaded, I give them up, and consent that they shall do as they will do. I had my fears about the Lectures.² I felt! In prudence I did not reply.

I am your aggrieved brother, father and friend,

F. ASBURY

P.S. I have not time to write nor dry my letters.

Methodist Historical Society of the Baltimore Conference (Lovely Lane Museum)