The Anxious Bench should be required reading for those who lead worship in the Evangelical Church (and by those led in worship too, of course). I'm making it easy.
System of the Catechism — Its theological ground and constitution — Its general methods and forms of action — Historical exemplification.
The system of the bench tends to disorder—Connects itself readily with a vulgar and irreverent style in religion— Women praying in public—Influence unfavorable to deep, earnest piety—Relation of the system to that of the Catechism.
The Bench vindicated on insufficient grounds :—1. As bringing the sinner to a decision;— 2. As involving him in a committal;—3. As giving force to his purpose;— 4. As a penitential discipline;—5. As necessary for the purposes of instruction;—6. As opening the way for prayer.
Action of the Bench—It creates a false issue for the conscience— Unsettles true seriousness—Usurps the place of the Cross—Results in widespread, lasting spiritual mischief.
Nature of Quackery— To rely on forms or measures shows inward weakness— “New Measures” a substitute for true strength— Where they are in honor, ample space is found for novices and quacks.
The merits of the Anxious Bench not to be measured by its popularity; nor by its seeming success.—Circumstances in which it is found to prevail.—No spiritual force required to give it effect.
Design of the Tract—Occasion for inquiry—Importance and solemnity of the subject.
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