Does the Spirit Bear Witness with Your Spirit?

When Wesley saw that things in Georgia may not go as he had planned, he sought the advice of several persons. In a journal entry dated not long after his arrival in Savannah, Wesley records a conversation he had with Mr. (later Bishop) Spangenberg, a noted theologian and the leader of the Moravian party. He writes:

Mr. Oglethorpe returned from Savannah with Mr. Spangenberg, one of the Pastors of the Germans. I soon found what spirit he was of; and asked his advice with regard to my own conduct. He said, "My brother, I must first ask you one or two questions. Have you the witness within yourself? Does the Spirit of God bear witness with your spirit, that you are a child of God?" I was surprised, and knew not what to answer. He observed it, and asked, "Do you know Jesus Christ?" I paused, and said, "I know he is the Saviour of the world." "True," replied he; "but do you know he has saved you?" I answered, "I hope he has died to save me." He only added, "Do you know yourself?" I said, "I do." But I fear they were vain words.....

From John Wesley's Journal Entry for Saturday, 7 February, 1736.


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