It was at length determined that Mr. Sloper should apply for admittance into the academyat Homerton; and in October, 1797, he was received into that institution. There were then fourteen students, and the tutors were Dr. Fisher and the Rev. John Berry.
Early in the summer of 1798, Mr. Sloper was admitted a member of the church at Stepney, under the pastoral care of the Rev. George Ford, whose ministry proved truly beneficial to him.
Towards the close of the year 1799, Mr. Berry resigned his office as resident tutor, and was succeeded by Mr. (now Dr.) John Pye Smith, to whose invaluable instructions and uniform friendship Mr. Sloper felt himself under the greatest obligations.
His conduct as a student was truly exemplary, and, as may generally be observed, laid a foundation for that high respectability of character which he manifested in his future life.
At the close of his preparatory studies, he was requested, through the Rev. Samuel Newton of Norwich, to spend a few probationary weeks at Beccles. Accordingly, Nov. 5th, 1802, he left London for that purpose, and delivered his first sermon at Beccles on Sunday, Nov. 7th. Afterpreaching to the people six sabbath days, he was requested to return to them for a longer season, with a view to becoming their stated minister. In the month of February, 1803, he consequently came again to Beccles, and in the following April an invitation from the church was presented to him to become their pastor, which was accepted by Mr. Sloper, on Sunday, 8th May, and was followed on the 7th July by his public and solemn ordination.
On that occasion, Mr. Sheppard of Wrentham, commenced the service with prayer and reading of the Scriptures. Mr. Walford of Yarmouth, delivered an introductory discourse, on ordination, as practised among protestant dissenters; asked the usual questions of the minister; and received his confession of faith. Mr. Newton of Norwich, offered up the ordination prayer, which was unaccompanied by imposition of hands. Mr. Ford of Stepney, gave the charge, from Col. iv. 17. Mr. Ray of Sudbury, preached to the people, from 1 Cor. xvi. 10. Mr. Shufflebottom of Bungay, Mr. Gardiner of Southwold, and Mr. Craig of Bocking, engaged in other partsof the service; and Mr. Atkinson of Ipswich, preached in the evening. More than twenty ministers were present.[206]
The important union thus formed and recognised, was, on the 16th of August, in the same year, followed by Mr. Sloper’s marriage; and both events were productive of felicity, for which, to his very last days, he constantly blessed God.
After his ordination his ministry created considerable attention; the congregation gradually increased; and through the divine blessing, his preaching was rendered effectual to the conversion of some, and to the improvement and comfort of many.
Previously to Mr. Sloper’s pastorate, it was usual in this, as in many other Congregational churches, for persons desiring to unite with the society, to send in a written account of their christian experience. And it was also customary to hold three church meetings before the reception of a candidate. In December, 1803, as prudence did not appear to require a rigid adherenceto these regulations, it was agreed, at a church meeting, that the writing a paper should be left to the inclination of the candidates, and that they should in future be proposed at one meeting, and received, or rejected, at the next.[207a]
In 1804, a secession of a few members took place. They formed the nucleus of the Baptist church which has since existed in Beccles.[207b]
Mr. Sloper was visited in the same year with an indisposition, which occasioned his absence for six weeks. During this affliction he had ample proof of the affection of his people. Prayer-meetings were held for the special purpose of imploring the blessing of God on the means employed for his recovery, and upon his ministry when he should resume it. These supplications were graciously regarded, and he was enabled again to preach very frequently, and with much success, till October, 1806, when it pleased God to afflict him with typhus fever. This illness lasted till the middle of December, and at times was attended with considerable danger. He observes, “It produced a great dejection of spirits, and dread of death; but goodness and mercy attended me every moment. My affliction excited in the minds of my people, and fellow-townsmen, general concern; and, I believe, was the means of strengthening the mutual affection that existsbetween my charge and their minister. The kindness of my congregation and friends on this occasion, I trust, will not soon be erased from my recollection, or my heart.” He makes no allusion to the cause of his illness. It originated from his attention to an afflicted individual. The house of sickness and mourning was never forsaken by him; and there was a tenderness of sympathy in his manner, and a glowing affection in his heart, which were very soothing to the afflicted. He regarded visiting the sick as an important duty, and expressly consulted his friend, Mr. Winter, on the best mode of discharging it. “I generally,” said that excellent man in his reply, “endeavour to be very serious in prayer;”[209]and Mr. Sloper did not fail to profit by this suggestion. His prayers in seasons of trial were peculiarly touching and appropriate.
In the summer of 1807, he took a journey for the purpose of visiting his distant relations and friends. He met again, at that time, his early and venerated friend, Mr. Winter. The tie which connected them had been doubled by Mr.Sloper’s alliance with one who in early life had been much with that holy and benevolent man—one of his numerous “children by adoption and kindness.” About two months previous to the attack which terminated his useful life, he wrote to her as follows:
“My very dear daughter,I sit down purposely to write something to you. I wish it may be something profitable; for otherwise a letter is nothing worth . . .I am disappointed at not seeing more genuine religion produced by my labours. Some I hope fear God, and walk before him, but many are so irregular in their walk, that I fear for them. I hope matters are different at Beccles. I find the short time since I was there has produced changes. Some have quitted the stage of life, and left vacant seats in the house of God; . . . yet our dear friend has a considerable number by which his hands are strengthened. Oh that they may be his present joy, and his future crown of rejoicing! . . . I need not say, consecrate yourselves to God; keep the mind heavenwards; letyour friends see that you live upon the suburbs of the heavenly kingdom. Do not let the world engross you in any degree. Whether it smile or frown, be alike indifferent to it. Conceive of it as it is, fleeting and uncertain. Take the refreshments provided for and suited to the pilgrim; but do not set up your rest where you should only bait. Prepare to meet your God. . . . My good wife is as well as may be expected, and so is Mrs. Tyler, to whom we are much indebted for her kind exertions. They unite in salutations to you and my son, from whom I shall ever be glad to receive a line. If he will commission you to use his pen, and you will accept the commission, it will be equally and very acceptable toMy ever dear daughter,Your very affectionate father,Cornelius Winter.”[211]“Painswick,Oct.16, 1807.”
“My very dear daughter,
I sit down purposely to write something to you. I wish it may be something profitable; for otherwise a letter is nothing worth . . .
I am disappointed at not seeing more genuine religion produced by my labours. Some I hope fear God, and walk before him, but many are so irregular in their walk, that I fear for them. I hope matters are different at Beccles. I find the short time since I was there has produced changes. Some have quitted the stage of life, and left vacant seats in the house of God; . . . yet our dear friend has a considerable number by which his hands are strengthened. Oh that they may be his present joy, and his future crown of rejoicing! . . . I need not say, consecrate yourselves to God; keep the mind heavenwards; letyour friends see that you live upon the suburbs of the heavenly kingdom. Do not let the world engross you in any degree. Whether it smile or frown, be alike indifferent to it. Conceive of it as it is, fleeting and uncertain. Take the refreshments provided for and suited to the pilgrim; but do not set up your rest where you should only bait. Prepare to meet your God. . . . My good wife is as well as may be expected, and so is Mrs. Tyler, to whom we are much indebted for her kind exertions. They unite in salutations to you and my son, from whom I shall ever be glad to receive a line. If he will commission you to use his pen, and you will accept the commission, it will be equally and very acceptable to
My ever dear daughter,Your very affectionate father,Cornelius Winter.”[211]
“Painswick,Oct.16, 1807.”
To the death of this greatly esteemed friend, Mr. Sloper thus tenderly refers in his private papers. “January 10th, 1808, that excellentman, that eminent Christian and minister, Rev. Cornelius Winter, was removed by death to his eternal home. His decease seriously impressed my mind, and drew from me the tear of selfish regret, that I should receive no more instruction from his lips, nor ever more be delighted with his pious conversation, fervent prayers, and affectionate intercourse. Oh may the son who now writes concerning his honoured father and friend, possess a measure of his spirit and imitate his holy example. His image is impressed upon the hearts of all who knew him; and his heavenly portrait, painted by the hand of his adopted son, the worthy and eloquent Mr. Jay, will be held up for the admiration and regard of succeeding generations.”
The following interesting reflections and solemn prayer, found among the same papers, under the date of January 3rd, 1809, deserve to be introduced here.
“By the grace of God I am spared to the commencement of another year. I would begin it with serious reflection on the past, and with humble prayer as it concerns futurity.“Many of my fellow-creatures have commenced this year in the world of spirits. They have done with time and with all its concerns. Their season for gaining and doing good is closed for ever. But God has prolonged my existence, and, during the past year, distinguished me with his goodness and mercy. Upon the whole my health this year has been much improved: as a minister, I have been enabled to exert myself considerably in the preaching of the gospel: the congregation has been large; and a few, the fruit of my ministry, have been added to the church.“My domestic comforts have been great. My house has been the seat ofhealth,affection, andpeace. Here I would raise my Ebenezer,—‘Hitherto the Lord hath helped me,’—and turn my reflections into prayer to the great Preserver of my being.“O thou God of grace, in whom I live and move continually, help thy servant to prostrate himself before thy throne; and hear the faithful acknowledgments which he desires to offer.“I thank thee for all thy favours which thou hast bestowed upon me ever since I came intothe world: for preservation in the midst of dangers; for restoration from sickness to health; but, above all, for a religious education; for the wise conduct of thy superintending providence, and for thy distinguishing grace in calling me from the follies of the world into the family of thy children, and into the ministry of thy dear Son. I thank thee, O God, for all the privileges of the past year, for all my exemption from affliction and pain, for the strength which I have possessed for the performance of every duty as the head of a family, and as the minister of a congregation. I thank thee, O Lord, for the happiness I enjoy at home, and for the peace that prevails among the people of my charge.“But whilst thou art worthy to receive the warmest returns of gratitude for thy goodness towards me, I would, on a recollection of my conduct, with contrition humble myself before thee. Merciful God! forgive my pride and vanity of heart; forgive my levity of speech and behaviour, my lukewarmness in thy service, and every error and defect which have been found in the exercises I have performed. From a consciousnessof my many imperfections I would throw myself entirely on thy compassion, praying with the publican, ‘God be merciful to me a sinner!’“Shouldst thou spare me, O God, through the year upon which I have entered, O spare me for the benefit of my own soul, for the good of others, and for thy glory. Enable me to read thy word, and to study it with attention and delight: help me to maintain the spirit and practice of devotion in my closet, in my family, and in the public assembly: assist me to deal faithfully with the souls of my people when conversing with them in friendly intercourse, and when addressing them from thy holy word. May I be instant in season and out of season for the conversion of the irreligious, and for the comfort of those that already believe. May the people committed to my charge be preserved from every error in sentiment, and irregularity in conduct, injurious to themselves and dishonourable to thee. May many be added to the church, and may great prosperity attend us.“Shouldst thou, in thy infinite wisdom, seefit to afflict me in my own person, family, or friends, enable me to meet the visitation with a full dependence on thy all-wise providence, and with humble resignation to thy righteous will. And shouldst thou call me from time into the eternal world before the close of the present year, Oh may I die in the faith of that gospel which I preach to perishing sinners, and in the possession and enjoyment of that hope which I have recommended to others, which has heaven for its glorious object, and the atonement and intercession of thy Son Jesus Christ for its firm foundation. Amen.”
“By the grace of God I am spared to the commencement of another year. I would begin it with serious reflection on the past, and with humble prayer as it concerns futurity.
“Many of my fellow-creatures have commenced this year in the world of spirits. They have done with time and with all its concerns. Their season for gaining and doing good is closed for ever. But God has prolonged my existence, and, during the past year, distinguished me with his goodness and mercy. Upon the whole my health this year has been much improved: as a minister, I have been enabled to exert myself considerably in the preaching of the gospel: the congregation has been large; and a few, the fruit of my ministry, have been added to the church.
“My domestic comforts have been great. My house has been the seat ofhealth,affection, andpeace. Here I would raise my Ebenezer,—‘Hitherto the Lord hath helped me,’—and turn my reflections into prayer to the great Preserver of my being.
“O thou God of grace, in whom I live and move continually, help thy servant to prostrate himself before thy throne; and hear the faithful acknowledgments which he desires to offer.
“I thank thee for all thy favours which thou hast bestowed upon me ever since I came intothe world: for preservation in the midst of dangers; for restoration from sickness to health; but, above all, for a religious education; for the wise conduct of thy superintending providence, and for thy distinguishing grace in calling me from the follies of the world into the family of thy children, and into the ministry of thy dear Son. I thank thee, O God, for all the privileges of the past year, for all my exemption from affliction and pain, for the strength which I have possessed for the performance of every duty as the head of a family, and as the minister of a congregation. I thank thee, O Lord, for the happiness I enjoy at home, and for the peace that prevails among the people of my charge.
“But whilst thou art worthy to receive the warmest returns of gratitude for thy goodness towards me, I would, on a recollection of my conduct, with contrition humble myself before thee. Merciful God! forgive my pride and vanity of heart; forgive my levity of speech and behaviour, my lukewarmness in thy service, and every error and defect which have been found in the exercises I have performed. From a consciousnessof my many imperfections I would throw myself entirely on thy compassion, praying with the publican, ‘God be merciful to me a sinner!’
“Shouldst thou spare me, O God, through the year upon which I have entered, O spare me for the benefit of my own soul, for the good of others, and for thy glory. Enable me to read thy word, and to study it with attention and delight: help me to maintain the spirit and practice of devotion in my closet, in my family, and in the public assembly: assist me to deal faithfully with the souls of my people when conversing with them in friendly intercourse, and when addressing them from thy holy word. May I be instant in season and out of season for the conversion of the irreligious, and for the comfort of those that already believe. May the people committed to my charge be preserved from every error in sentiment, and irregularity in conduct, injurious to themselves and dishonourable to thee. May many be added to the church, and may great prosperity attend us.
“Shouldst thou, in thy infinite wisdom, seefit to afflict me in my own person, family, or friends, enable me to meet the visitation with a full dependence on thy all-wise providence, and with humble resignation to thy righteous will. And shouldst thou call me from time into the eternal world before the close of the present year, Oh may I die in the faith of that gospel which I preach to perishing sinners, and in the possession and enjoyment of that hope which I have recommended to others, which has heaven for its glorious object, and the atonement and intercession of thy Son Jesus Christ for its firm foundation. Amen.”
In the autumn of 1810, Mr. Sloper spent some time at Lowestoft, a distance from home, which allowed him the enjoyment and advantage of the sea air, without seriously interfering with the performance of his pastoral duties. There he became acquainted with the celebrated Mrs. Siddons, who had escaped from the excitement of public life, to the unmolested retirement and invigorating breezes of the same watering-place. That extraordinary woman had atalent, ratherthan ataste, for the vocation she pursued. Her natural character was marked by extreme diffidence, and a “benignant singleness of mind.” What was said of her, could have been said, even in poetry, of few actresses:
“Behold, dividing still the palm of fame,Her radiant science, and her spotless life.”[217a]
“Behold, dividing still the palm of fame,Her radiant science, and her spotless life.”[217a]
She had already passed the zenith of her celebrity. Providence had repeatedly and recently, called her to tread, in domestic life, the “path of sorrow,” and her religious advantages, however few, had taught her that
“Thatpath aloneLeads to the land where sorrow is unknown.”
“Thatpath aloneLeads to the land where sorrow is unknown.”
“Sweet sometimes,” said she, “are the uses of adversity. It not only strengthens family affection, but teaches us all to walk humbly with our God.”[217b]It is not surprising that she was disposed to cultivate the society of those whocould blend piety with cheerfulness, and with whom she might be on friendly terms without ceremony. Such acquaintances she found in Mr. Sloper’s family. Mrs. Siddons, with unassuming kindness, contributed to their amusement by specimens of her powerful reading. She joined willingly in the worship of the family, and maintained the same invaluable practice at her own lodgings.
Just at that time Mr. Sloper was requested to preach a sermon to his own people,[218]on an affecting and mournful occasion—the death of a suicide. Though he keenly felt the delicacy and difficulty of the task, a sense of duty and the possibility of usefulness overcame his scruples. He selected as his text, the impressive sentiment of the apostle, “The sorrow of the world worketh death.”—2 Cor. vii. 10. Mrs. Siddons was one of his auditors. She who had been the honoured guest of royalty, who had been enthroned as the Tragic Muse, and whose voice had charmed applauding multitudes—was seen, in the humble dissenting meeting-house at Beccles,shedding abundant and unaffected tears at the plain and faithful exhibition of religious truth!
Mr. Sloper’s preaching was as powerfully recommended to her by the delightful illustration of christian principles, exhibited in his private character, as by the intrinsic importance of those principles and the simple gravity and penetrating earnestness with which they were announced from his lips. He afterwards procured for her, at her request, a copy of Scott’s admirable “Commentary on the Bible,” which he accompanied with a letter, warmly urging upon her attention the great realities her profession had so manifest a tendency to exclude from her contemplations.
Mrs. Siddons more than once expressed her gratitude for the interest Mr. Sloper had evinced in her eternal welfare; she thanked him, in writing, for the advice he had given her, adding an emphatic wish that “God might enable her to follow it”—a wish which her pious and amiable correspondent echoed with all the fervour of his heart. She returned into the glare of popularity: but a hope may surely be indulged, that thepressure of subsequent relative afflictions, and of old age, were not permitted to come upon her, unaccompanied by the impressions and consolations of true religion. Her elegant biographer, Mr. Campbell, draws a veil over the state of her mind during her last hours, which it would be deeply interesting to penetrate. Would she notthen, if reason were undimmed, reflect upon the faithful counsel she received with Scott’s Bible, as being of infinitely greater value than the applause of myriads or the fame of ages?
Meeting-house rebuilt—Daniel Delf—Formation of the Beccles District Missionary Society—Bible meetings—Association Sermon—Meetings of ministers—Samuel Archer—Illness of Mr. Sloper—Attacked with paralysis—Letter to the Treasurer of the Suffolk Missionary Society—Second attack—Rev. John Flower—Mr. Sloper resigns—His character—Ordination of Mr. Flower—Death of Mr. Sloper—Tablet to his memory—William Crisp—Enlargement of the chapel—Conclusion.
Thedilapidated state of the meeting-house, as well as its inadequacy to the accommodation of increasing numbers, gave rise, in the year 1809, to the design of erecting a more substantial and commodious place of worship. This was accomplished in 1812, at an expense, including the purchase of a small piece of ground, of £2140 18s.4d.Besides a regular periodical subscription, repeated efforts were made, by those whofelt an interest in the work, to liquidate this debt. It was not, however, till 1829, that there appeared a balance in hand. To a society who, as a body, could not boast of opulence, this was naturally a subject of much pleasure. The pecuniary and personal aid of their benevolent minister, had been rendered with cheerfulness and alacrity; and he heartily sympathized with them in the final accomplishment of their design. It was a fit occasion for the exercise of the best social feelings. Mutual congratulations were blended with ardent thankfulness to God; and the account of the various donations and subscriptions were closed with the following memorandum.
“Be it remembered with gratitude to the Giver of all good, that the debt of £2140 18s.4d., contracted in the erection of the chapel, in the year of our Lord 1812, after sixteen years’ persevering exertion, was this year entirely discharged; in commemoration of which, forty-four of the subscribers dined together at the King’s Head Inn, and in evidence of which the ministerand deacons have hereto subscribed their names, this 16th day of February, 1829.Isaac Sloper, Pastor.William Crisp,John Crisp,Samuel Tovell,John Mayhew,Deacons.”
“Be it remembered with gratitude to the Giver of all good, that the debt of £2140 18s.4d., contracted in the erection of the chapel, in the year of our Lord 1812, after sixteen years’ persevering exertion, was this year entirely discharged; in commemoration of which, forty-four of the subscribers dined together at the King’s Head Inn, and in evidence of which the ministerand deacons have hereto subscribed their names, this 16th day of February, 1829.
Isaac Sloper, Pastor.
William Crisp,John Crisp,Samuel Tovell,John Mayhew,Deacons.”
In the margin of the entry a reference is made to a passage of Scripture, which indicates the character of the joy and the proper object of the thankfulness thus manifested. 1 Chron. xxix. 16, “O Lord, our God, all this store that we have prepared to build thee an house for thine holy name, cometh of thy hand, and is all thine own.”
While the new chapel was building, this christian society was deprived by death of a member whose character and usefulness, as a man and as a Christian, are entitled to be recorded here—Mr. Daniel Delf. He was favoured in early life with the religious training of a pious mother, and the public ministry of Mr. Bocking. Settling atBeccles, he soon became a member of Mr. Heptinstall’s church; and in 1792, on account of his excellent spirit and character, he was chosen a deacon. In that office he exerted himself continually to promote the peace and prosperity of the church, and to strengthen the hands of his minister. Every member found in him an example to stimulate, a friend to advise, and an advocate before the throne of God. While his particular attention was devoted to the “household of faith,” he habitually laboured to do good unto all men, and was ever ready to alleviate suffering humanity at the expense of self-denial. Hence he was admired and respected by all who knew him. Some who despised his piety, perceived the benefits of it; and while they could ridicule the saint, revered the man. Such an individual his friends could have wished to retain for ever; but in the spring of 1812, repeated invasions of disease warned them of the loss they were soon to sustain. He went to Lowestoft, to try a change of air and scene; but returned after a few weeks. Passing slowly near the building he had been zealous to raise for God,he directed his eye towards the work, and burst into tears. He wept when he thought of the place of worship he should never enter, and of the society he was about to leave: but he soon resumed his fortitude, for he was in a few days to enter the glorious temple of God, that “house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.”
The chamber of this dying saint exhibited a scene fraught with instruction. Surrounded by relatives and friends in unutterable anguish,hewas serene, possessing “the peace of God which passeth understanding.” “Remember,” said he to his sorrowing partner in life, “I shall not takethe promiseswith me.” His medical attendant coming in shortly before he expired, he said, “If you can give me any thing whereby I may glorify God more, do it.” But nature was exhausted, and he fell asleep in death.
A numerous congregation attentively heard his funeral sermon, from Psal. xii. 1, “Help, Lord; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.”[225]
His memory, is still cherished by all classesof his neighbours with a vividness and a regard, which speak the justice of the inscription compiled by his beloved pastor and placed upon his grave.
BENEATH THIS STONELIE THE MORTAL REMAINS OFDANIEL DELF,WHO AFTER SUSTAINING IN ANEXEMPLARY MANNER THE CHARACTERSOF HUSBAND, PARENT, FRIEND, ANDDEACON OF A CHRISTIAN CHURCH,WITH UNSHAKEN CONFIDENCE IN THEREDEEMER, PASSED THROUGH THE VALLEYOF THE SHADOW OF DEATH, TO HISEVERLASTING REST,JUNE7TH,1812,IN THE55TH YEAR OF HIS AGE.Be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Heb. vi. 12.
BENEATH THIS STONELIE THE MORTAL REMAINS OFDANIEL DELF,WHO AFTER SUSTAINING IN ANEXEMPLARY MANNER THE CHARACTERSOF HUSBAND, PARENT, FRIEND, ANDDEACON OF A CHRISTIAN CHURCH,WITH UNSHAKEN CONFIDENCE IN THEREDEEMER, PASSED THROUGH THE VALLEYOF THE SHADOW OF DEATH, TO HISEVERLASTING REST,JUNE7TH,1812,IN THE55TH YEAR OF HIS AGE.
Be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Heb. vi. 12.
Mr. Sloper had the happiness in 1814, to witness the formation of the Beccles District Society in aid of Missions, which was soon extended tothe whole county of Suffolk. In September of that year, a meeting of the neighbouring ministers was held at his house, in consequence of some previous conversation on the subject with two of his brethren in a friendly visit. His whole soul entered into the cause of missions; and when the county society was formed, every eye was directed towards him as the proper person to act as its secretary, an office which he filled with great wisdom and unabated zeal, till his last and long-continued affliction compelled him to relinquish all active service. The days of the missionary meetings were among the most happy of his life; and never was he absent, except when sickness compelled that absence.
About this time, also, he began to take a very active part in all the meetings of the Bible Society within twelve or fourteen miles of his residence. His great love to the holy Scriptures, and consequently to all the means of disseminating them, rendered him a willing helper. Probably no individual in the county of Suffolk attended more of the meetings of the Society. And though at those meetings he always took a leading part, yetnone could accuse him of a forwardness disgraceful to him that manifests it, and injurious to the cause which he professes to serve.
Indeed, the excellent pastor of the Congregational church at Beccles, was so highly and so universally respected and beloved by his brethren in the ministry, and by the members of neighbouring churches, that there were few occasions of interest to them on which his presence and assistance were not sought. They felt that in him they could present to the most numerous and mixed assemblies, a picture of the judicious, faithful, practical christian minister, which the heavenly-minded would admire, and which the profane would find it impossible to despise. He was the counterpart of Cowper’s “pastor,”
“Simple, grave, sincere;In doctrine uncorrupt; in language plain,And plain in manner; decent, solemn, chaste,And natural in gesture; much impress’dHimself, as conscious of his awful charge,And anxious mainly that the flock he feedsMay feel it too: affectionate in look,And tender in address, as well becameA messenger of grace to guilty men.”
“Simple, grave, sincere;In doctrine uncorrupt; in language plain,And plain in manner; decent, solemn, chaste,And natural in gesture; much impress’dHimself, as conscious of his awful charge,And anxious mainly that the flock he feedsMay feel it too: affectionate in look,And tender in address, as well becameA messenger of grace to guilty men.”
It would be difficult, and is unnecessary, to enumerate all the instances in which Mr. Sloper was engaged at ordinations, at the opening of places of worship, and in the service of societies formed for promoting the interests of the Redeemer’s kingdom.
On the 23rd April, 1816, he delivered at Needham Market, before the half-yearly association of the Suffolk Independent churches, a discourse, which he published at their request, and which speedily went into a second edition. It is founded on 1 Thess. ii. 19, 20, “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? are not even ye, in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? For ye are our glory and joy.” This sermon affords a specimen of that sober evenness of style, supported by solidity of sentiment, and adorned by dignified yet affectionate earnestness, which characterized Mr. Sloper’s pulpit exercises. He points out in what respects christian churches are the glory and joy of their ministers; and urges a devout regard to the objects of their union. The following passage, with which he closes his discussion of the former ofthese topics, will at once illustrate his manner of preaching, and the value he attached to the intercessions of his people.
“Christian affection, my brethren, sweetens the intercourse of life; it is the comfort of the church on earth, and the element of the church in heaven; and in the exercise of this celestial virtue, you will promote each other’s welfare, and fill your pastors’ hearts with gratitude and joy; you will receive their admonitions with meekness, listen to their instructions with a proper temper, cover their infirmities and not expose them, and be ready by your words and actions to strengthen their hands.“Ministers are greatly encouraged by the pious and constant prayers of their people. Ah! my friends, we need your prayers: we are frail creatures, and men of like passions with yourselves. Whatever be our feelings, we must perform the solemn duties of our office. Our work is arduous; our responsibility awful; and even an apostle says, ‘Brethren, pray for us;’ andwe, you may rest assured, cannot dispense with your supplications, or be happy without them. We are relieved,in all our labours and afflictions, by the persuasion that the people of our care are a godly and praying people. How refreshing is the thought, that while we are studying the Scriptures, and preparing for the exercises of the sabbath, our christian friends are imploring the aid of God’s grace and Spirit, to preserve us from error, and to render us faithful to the solemn trust assigned us! With what pleasure do we enter the pulpit, when we can believe that our hearers have been praying for a blessing on our souls, and on the labours of our ministry! We are animated to proceed in our exertions, when the hearts of our friends ascend in supplication to God, that the word of his grace may be applied with power to their own minds, and be the means of leading others to the Saviour and to the kingdom of heaven. If you come to the house of God with a devotional spirit, and bear your ministers and their great work upon your hearts, it is more than probable that a disposition to cavil and to censure will be destroyed, and as new-born babes, you will “receive the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby;”while, in a sense that rises in importance with the progress of time, you will be the ‘joy and crown of rejoicing,’ of those who have taken the oversight among you in the Lord . . .“If you are true Christians, and firmly hold the sublime and holy doctrines of the gospel of Christ; if you improve under the ministry of the word, and bear the fruits of righteousness, to the honour of divine grace; if the important duties of social religion be conscientiously and steadily performed; if your desires, prayers, and efforts are employed for the comfort, encouragement, and success of your ministers; and if all your conduct as Christians and members of churches, be directed to the glory of the great Head of the church; you are indeed most honourable societies; you are a credit to your profession, the ‘hope’ of your pastors, and will meet them as their ‘joy and crown of rejoicing’ at the resurrection of the just.”[232]
“Christian affection, my brethren, sweetens the intercourse of life; it is the comfort of the church on earth, and the element of the church in heaven; and in the exercise of this celestial virtue, you will promote each other’s welfare, and fill your pastors’ hearts with gratitude and joy; you will receive their admonitions with meekness, listen to their instructions with a proper temper, cover their infirmities and not expose them, and be ready by your words and actions to strengthen their hands.
“Ministers are greatly encouraged by the pious and constant prayers of their people. Ah! my friends, we need your prayers: we are frail creatures, and men of like passions with yourselves. Whatever be our feelings, we must perform the solemn duties of our office. Our work is arduous; our responsibility awful; and even an apostle says, ‘Brethren, pray for us;’ andwe, you may rest assured, cannot dispense with your supplications, or be happy without them. We are relieved,in all our labours and afflictions, by the persuasion that the people of our care are a godly and praying people. How refreshing is the thought, that while we are studying the Scriptures, and preparing for the exercises of the sabbath, our christian friends are imploring the aid of God’s grace and Spirit, to preserve us from error, and to render us faithful to the solemn trust assigned us! With what pleasure do we enter the pulpit, when we can believe that our hearers have been praying for a blessing on our souls, and on the labours of our ministry! We are animated to proceed in our exertions, when the hearts of our friends ascend in supplication to God, that the word of his grace may be applied with power to their own minds, and be the means of leading others to the Saviour and to the kingdom of heaven. If you come to the house of God with a devotional spirit, and bear your ministers and their great work upon your hearts, it is more than probable that a disposition to cavil and to censure will be destroyed, and as new-born babes, you will “receive the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby;”while, in a sense that rises in importance with the progress of time, you will be the ‘joy and crown of rejoicing,’ of those who have taken the oversight among you in the Lord . . .
“If you are true Christians, and firmly hold the sublime and holy doctrines of the gospel of Christ; if you improve under the ministry of the word, and bear the fruits of righteousness, to the honour of divine grace; if the important duties of social religion be conscientiously and steadily performed; if your desires, prayers, and efforts are employed for the comfort, encouragement, and success of your ministers; and if all your conduct as Christians and members of churches, be directed to the glory of the great Head of the church; you are indeed most honourable societies; you are a credit to your profession, the ‘hope’ of your pastors, and will meet them as their ‘joy and crown of rejoicing’ at the resurrection of the just.”[232]
A society of a private nature for friendly intercourse among a few neighbouring ministers,was formed at Mr. Sloper’s house in 1822. The occasional interchange of counsel and sympathy thus secured, afforded him much unmingled satisfaction; and even during his last illness he joined in one of these meetings, and prayed with great fervency and affection.
In 1824 Mr. Sloper published an account of Samuel Markham Archer, a little boy who died at Beccles, May 1st, in that year. It is an interesting narrative, beautifully illustrating the power and value of religion operating upon the mind of a child. This tract reached a third edition, and was stereotyped in the following year.
In the spring of 1825, Mr. Sloper was again the subject of severe affliction, and for several Lord’s days his people were deprived of his public services. It was his great anxiety that they might continue to be fed with the bread of life. His brethren in the ministry readily lent their aid; and on the first sabbath in May he was again permitted to unite with his flock in sweet communion at the table of the Lord.
For several subsequent years he continued to labour with much acceptance, and to enjoy theunmingled respect and affection due to a truly upright, holy, and amiable deportment.
In the autumn of 1832, the awful ravages of the cholera occasioned special meetings for prayer, in almost all christian societies. At the suggestion of Mr. Sloper, such a meeting was held at the Independent chapel, Beccles, on the evening of Wednesday, September 5th. It was numerously attended. A solemnity equally free from formality and enthusiasm prevailed in the assembly and characterized the service. Several leading members of the church prayed appropriately and fervently. The psalms selected for singing, were suited to the particular occasion, and were afterwards remembered with a sad impression of their almost prophetic strain, with reference to the mysterious event which was about to be disclosed in the providence of God. The faithful and beloved pastor himself read, from the pulpit he had so long occupied,—
“Death, like an overflowing stream,Sweeps us away; our life’s a dream,An empty tale, a morning flower,Cut down, and wither’d in an hour!”
“Death, like an overflowing stream,Sweeps us away; our life’s a dream,An empty tale, a morning flower,Cut down, and wither’d in an hour!”
He delivered an address, pointing out the peculiar propriety of prayer under the circumstances of that affecting period; and with solemn supplication and the apostolic benediction closed the service. While the congregation were withdrawing he was observed in the act of descending with extreme difficulty from the pulpit. It had pleased the Sovereign Disposer of all events to afflict him with paralysis, so severely, that the most painful apprehensions were felt as to the result.
Such an occurrence, under these circumstances, was singularly affecting. Mr. Sloper had entertained a presentiment that his labours would not be extended to a much longer period than those of his immediate predecessor. On the sabbath which completed the twenty-ninth year of his pastorate, his mind had been much occupied with this apprehension; and though he knew in whose hands his “times” were, it was not till he had made one unsuccessful effort that he could so far overcome his feelings as to commence his public address in the afternoon of that day. It was now perceived that his fears were about to be realized.But the juncture had arrived at which a faithful minister might well receive with humble thankfulness and patient acquiescence, the summons to his great account. He was “found” in the exercise of watchfulness, and in the very act of prayer, labouring “out of season” to render the judgments of God subservient to the best interests of his flock, with his “loins girt about, and his lamp burning.”
This event excited the deepest interest and sympathy, not only in the congregation, but throughout the town and neighbourhood. Special prayer-meetings to implore the divine mercy in the restoration of the smitten shepherd, and the influence of the Holy Spirit to direct the church in their critical affairs, were held; and temporary measures were resorted to for supplying the pulpit.
For about two months the congregation availed itself of the services of Mr. Russ, who had just then terminated an engagement at Gorleston. From the middle of November 1832, to the beginning of the subsequent July, the Rev. Thomas Morell, jun. (nephew of the eminentprincipal of Coward College, London,) laboured here.
In the spring of 1833, Mr. Sloper’s indisposition was so far alleviated, that he was enabled, in the seclusion of his own house, to employ his mind upon topics and objects still dear to him. He had always been accustomed, as secretary of the Suffolk Society in aid of Missions, to prepare its Report. The annual meeting drew near; and he felt his incapacity for the wonted task. But he wrote, at intervals, a letter to the treasurer, Mr. Shepherd Bay, which was read at the meeting, and printed in lieu of the sixteenth Report of the Society. Never had he furnished a report which was heard with deeper interest.
Beccles,April26, 1833.“My dear Friend,The approaching anniversary of the Suffolk Society in aid of Missions, awakens feelings of no ordinary character in my mind. Gladly should I, as on many former occasions, meet you in the performance of official duties, and in the enjoyment of some of the highest privilegesof the Christian, had not the all-wise providence of God incapacitated me for meeting my brethren and friends, except at a throne of grace, where, notwithstanding the distance of forty miles, we can cherish the same feelings of benevolence towards the perishing heathen, and exercise christian love one towards another . . . Gratefully I desire to acknowledge the kindness of my dear brethren and friends, personally shown to me as their secretary during past years, and especially their kind letters of condolence and fervent prayers since my affliction, which has made me the Lord’s prisoner for nearly eight months. I rejoice in their personal and relative peace and prosperity; and with you, my friend, do I share in the satisfaction that our county Society exhibits pleasing signs of christian union and hopeful efficiency, and that the desire of our hearts, as its sincerely devoted servants, promises to be increasingly and ultimately accomplished.“I trust this anniversary will be distinguished by every thing that increases the dignity of the christian character; that promotes the cause of social religion at home; that gives a holy impulseto the soul in seeking the prosperity of our churches, the best interests of our country, and the extension of the Redeemer’s kingdom throughout every part of the habitable world. May the great Head of the church pour out his Holy Spirit on your assembly!—that the young may be enlisted into the blessed service in which the fathers of many have been so honourably and happily employed; that christian zeal may be reanimated; that devotion and liberality may be abundantly increased; and that the coming year may be rendered the most prosperous and encouraging of all that have passed away since the formation of the Society within the venerable walls where you will, on Tuesday, be assembled.. . . . . . .“Continue, my dear friend, to pray for me; and the same request I would make to all who may meet you in the sanctuary on the delightful occasion, that the awful dispensation with which I have been visited may be sanctified to me and to all with whom I am connected: and should the Father of mercies realize my hopes of ultimate recovery, I trust the cause of the blessedSaviour will continue to lie near my heart, and that I shall renew my humble efforts with you to advance, as God’s honoured instruments, the best interests of the Suffolk Society in aid of Missions. To be, for years to come, your fellow-labourer in the service of our Association, will continue to be one of the chief enjoyments of my pilgrimage; and to die an undisgraced servant in the cause which the Society was formed to promote, will contribute to comfort my departing spirit when, from scenes of duty and means of grace, I shall pass to my final account, and return no more for my own advantage, or that of my fellow-men upon earth.I am, my dear friend,Yours with sincere affection,and best wishes,Isaac Sloper.”
Beccles,April26, 1833.
“My dear Friend,
The approaching anniversary of the Suffolk Society in aid of Missions, awakens feelings of no ordinary character in my mind. Gladly should I, as on many former occasions, meet you in the performance of official duties, and in the enjoyment of some of the highest privilegesof the Christian, had not the all-wise providence of God incapacitated me for meeting my brethren and friends, except at a throne of grace, where, notwithstanding the distance of forty miles, we can cherish the same feelings of benevolence towards the perishing heathen, and exercise christian love one towards another . . . Gratefully I desire to acknowledge the kindness of my dear brethren and friends, personally shown to me as their secretary during past years, and especially their kind letters of condolence and fervent prayers since my affliction, which has made me the Lord’s prisoner for nearly eight months. I rejoice in their personal and relative peace and prosperity; and with you, my friend, do I share in the satisfaction that our county Society exhibits pleasing signs of christian union and hopeful efficiency, and that the desire of our hearts, as its sincerely devoted servants, promises to be increasingly and ultimately accomplished.
“I trust this anniversary will be distinguished by every thing that increases the dignity of the christian character; that promotes the cause of social religion at home; that gives a holy impulseto the soul in seeking the prosperity of our churches, the best interests of our country, and the extension of the Redeemer’s kingdom throughout every part of the habitable world. May the great Head of the church pour out his Holy Spirit on your assembly!—that the young may be enlisted into the blessed service in which the fathers of many have been so honourably and happily employed; that christian zeal may be reanimated; that devotion and liberality may be abundantly increased; and that the coming year may be rendered the most prosperous and encouraging of all that have passed away since the formation of the Society within the venerable walls where you will, on Tuesday, be assembled.
. . . . . . .
“Continue, my dear friend, to pray for me; and the same request I would make to all who may meet you in the sanctuary on the delightful occasion, that the awful dispensation with which I have been visited may be sanctified to me and to all with whom I am connected: and should the Father of mercies realize my hopes of ultimate recovery, I trust the cause of the blessedSaviour will continue to lie near my heart, and that I shall renew my humble efforts with you to advance, as God’s honoured instruments, the best interests of the Suffolk Society in aid of Missions. To be, for years to come, your fellow-labourer in the service of our Association, will continue to be one of the chief enjoyments of my pilgrimage; and to die an undisgraced servant in the cause which the Society was formed to promote, will contribute to comfort my departing spirit when, from scenes of duty and means of grace, I shall pass to my final account, and return no more for my own advantage, or that of my fellow-men upon earth.
I am, my dear friend,Yours with sincere affection,and best wishes,Isaac Sloper.”
About two months after the above letter was written, Mr. Sloper had a second attack of so serious a description, as to preclude all hope of his ever again returning even to the partial discharge of his pastoral duties.
An application was consequently made to the directors of Highbury College for further supplies, and on September 15th, 1833,Mr. John Flower, jun. first officiated at Beccles. He had come down as a supply for a month only; but that time had not expired before all hearts seemed to be united in his favour. A special prayer-meeting was held, the afflicted pastor of the church consulted, his approval decidedly expressed, and on October 13th Mr. Flower was invited to take the oversight of this people. The church expressed their humble hope that as they had sought divine direction, the result would be their own growth in holiness, the conversion of many sinners unto God, and the enlarged manifestation of the divine glory. Mr. Flower accepted the invitation, proposing, as he had not completed his studies in the college, the last sabbath in the following February for the commencement of his pastoral duties.
Meanwhile the public services of the congregation continued to be conducted by a variety of ministers.
Prior to Mr. Flower’s entering upon his office, Mr. Sloper sent in his written resignation in the following humble and affectionate terms:
“Beccles,Feb.13th, 1834.“My dear friends,After labouring among you for upwards of thirty years, I am brought to the painful necessity of resigning my connexion with you as your minister and pastor. I resign with humility, acknowledging my unworthiness, and craving the mercy of our Lord Jesus at his second coming.“If I have offended any of our friends I ask their forgiveness, and commend them all to the divine mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto life eternal. It is a comfort to me that, while I feel imperiously required by my imperfections to resign my pastoral relation, I can commend to you my dear friend and brother Flower, to take the oversight of you in the Lord: and this I do with sincere affection, and with earnest prayer that the divine blessing may remain with you for ever.“Begging my affectionate regards to all classes of my friends—to the aged, the poor, and the young—I amYours with the most affectionate regard,and most earnest prayers,Isaac Sloper.”“ToMr. John Crisp,and the other Deacons, &c. &c.”
“Beccles,Feb.13th, 1834.
“My dear friends,
After labouring among you for upwards of thirty years, I am brought to the painful necessity of resigning my connexion with you as your minister and pastor. I resign with humility, acknowledging my unworthiness, and craving the mercy of our Lord Jesus at his second coming.
“If I have offended any of our friends I ask their forgiveness, and commend them all to the divine mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto life eternal. It is a comfort to me that, while I feel imperiously required by my imperfections to resign my pastoral relation, I can commend to you my dear friend and brother Flower, to take the oversight of you in the Lord: and this I do with sincere affection, and with earnest prayer that the divine blessing may remain with you for ever.
“Begging my affectionate regards to all classes of my friends—to the aged, the poor, and the young—I am
Yours with the most affectionate regard,and most earnest prayers,Isaac Sloper.”
“ToMr. John Crisp,and the other Deacons, &c. &c.”
The best testimony to Mr. Sloper’s ministerial character and exertions, is theeffectof his devoted services. It is sufficient to point to a church remarkable for its numbers—to a congregation constant and attentive, and comprising many who had not formally joined the church, but were the friends of Christ—and to prayer-meetings, and other week-day services, regularly and well attended:—a minister of the gospel needs no other commendation.
Some intimations of Mr. Sloper’s personal character have appeared in the previous pages. It was formed from an assemblage of those attractive and useful, though unobtrusive, qualities, which are not the best adapted for elaborate description, but are peculiarly conducive to therespectability of the individual and the happiness of society. His predominant quality wasbenevolence, ennobled and directed by deep and abiding piety. With him it was not a sickly sentimentalism exhausted upon objects of no moment, nor a heated enthusiasm aiming at projects of extravagance; but a principle which could expand to the great interests of humanity, or contract itself to the minute charities of domestic life. It guided his energies to the work of evangelizing heathen millions, and pervaded his ordinary intercourse with friends and neighbours. Those who occasionally saw him were struck with the urbanity of his manners; those who were favoured with his intimate friendship knew that his heart was all kindness. He rejoiced with those that rejoiced, and wept with those that wept. Much of his happiness consisted in making others happy. Once speaking of a servant visiting her friends, he observed with true generosity, “It is right she should go; she has the same feelings with ourselves.”
No one was more free from the unamiable passions. Although he never deemed it necessaryto merge the citizen in the saint, or forgot how inseparably blended are the interests of civil and religious liberty, he was unstained by political animosity. The avowal of his opinions was never unaccompanied by candour and charity towards those who differed from him. By his explanatory and conciliatory addresses on various suitable occasions, there is reason to believe that he contributed in no slight degree to prepare the minds of those within the circle of his influence, for the more cordial reception of the great legislative changes of which he lived to witness the consummation.
If ever he was betrayed into a warm expression, he was remarkably candid and placable: once convinced that he was wrong, hemade hastewith kindness and compunction in his heart, and frankness on his tongue, to repair the momentary error. Nor was he less ready to forgive. Some years ago a vexatious injury was committed in his garden. He remarked respecting it, “I wish the man a better heart.” It is in matters of such comparatively trivial importance that character exhibits its true features.
Even when affliction had partially obscured his mental powers, and his faith and patience were called into constant exercise, the holy love of the Christian still burst through the cloud, and irradiated the long evening of his pilgrimage.
It is not to be wondered at that he was greatly beloved, not only by his immediate friends, but by persons of all ages, classes, and callings, wherever he was known. “I was present,” says one of his most esteemed brethren in the ministry, “at his ordination; I was present at his interment; I enjoyed a large share of his friendship in the long interval between the two events; and I never witnessed his approach without gladness, or parted from him without regret.”