by John Rogers
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
This text has been initially updated from EEBO-TCP by Project Puritas (Logan West, with David Jonescue and Alex Sarrouf.) www.puritansearch.org Further revision and editing done by Monergism. Copyright Monergism via universal text usage permission from the above.
God is Love, and he that dwelleth in Love dwelleth in God, and God in him. 1 John 4. 16.
This is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that ye love one another. 1 John 3. 11.
And this Commandment have we of him, that he that loveth God, should love his Brother also. 1 John 4. 21.
"A Treatise of Love" by John Rogers is a profound piece of literary work penned by an esteemed Puritan clergyman and preacher. Once known for his vices and ungrateful acts, Rogers underwent a transformational journey marked by repentance and divine intervention that led him to emerge as a man of exemplary piety. An "illustrous ornament" to his college, Rogers' journey is often cited as an example of hope and transformation.
In "A Treatise of Love", Rogers elucidates on the life of love, drawing from his own personal and spiritual experiences. This piece is written as a token of dedication to the congregations he served, intending to provide guidance and foster love even after his departure.
Rogers fervently desires his teachings of love and unity to serve as the congregation's guiding light, allowing them to live in peace, and to grow in godly love and unity. His writings mirror his aspirations for a community that is bound by harmony, undeterred by evil, and dedicated to deeds of charity.
He addresses his audience with a tone of fatherly advice, exhorting them to resolve their differences amicably, to be charitable, and to set a shining example for other towns to follow. His hope is that God's honor is upheld through their actions and that they set a precedent for the future generations.
The treatise is more than just a guidebook; it is a plea to the younger generation to uphold and exceed the standards set by their predecessors, using their experiences and the wisdom derived from them as guiding principles. Rogers concludes his message by commending his audience to the grace of God, emphasizing the continuity and endurance of love and faith beyond his physical existence.
"A Treatise of Love" is a testament to Rogers' spiritual journey from vice to virtue and a compelling guide on faith, love, and unity, creating a lasting impact on its readers, inviting them to introspect, learn, and grow.
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Table of Contents
TO MY LOVING NEIGHBORS OF DEDHAM
CHAPTER I. Concerning Love
CHAPTER 2. Of the Love of God
CHAPTER 3. Of Love to our Neighbor: and first, what it is.
CHAPTER 4. Of the Notes, whereby love to our Neighbor may be known.
CHAPTER 5. Causes of the want of Love to our Neighbor.
CHAPTER 6. Properties of true Love.
CHAPTER 7. Whom we must love.
CHAPTER 8. Of Love to all men.
CHAPTER 9. Of Love to the Saints.
CHAPTER 10. How true Christians should love each other.
CHAPTER 11. Of relieving the poor.
CHAPTER 12. Of the Poor's duties.