holy scriptures, that, in all our churches, classes be formed of the youth to recite the scriptures in regular order; that the recitations, if convenient, be as often as once a week, and from two to five chapters appointed for each recitation; that the youth may be examined on: 1st. The history of the world, but more especially of the Church of God, and of the heathen nations who were God's agents in accomplishing his purposes towards his Church. 2nd. Persons noted for their piety or ungodliness, and the effects of their example in promoting or injuring the best interests of mankind. 3d. Doctrines and precepts, or "what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man." 4th. Positive ordinances, or the directions which God has given as to the way in which he is to be worshipped acceptably. 5th. The particular features of character of which the Spirit of God has given notice, both in wicked and good persons; in the last particularly regarding those who were types of Christ, and in what the typical resemblance con sisted. 6th. The gradual increase from time to time of information concerning the doctrines contained in the scriptures; noting the admirable adaptation of every new revelation of doctrine to the increased maturity of the church. The nature of God's law, its immutability, as constituting an everlasting rule of right and wrong, the full and perfect illustration of its precepts given by Christ. 7th. The change which God has made from time to time in the positive ordinances, together with the reasons of that change. The difference between the moral law and those laws which are positive. 8th. The illustration of the divine perfections in the history, biography, doctrines and precepts, together with the positive ordinances of the scriptures. 9th. The practical lessons to regulate our conduct in the various relations of life. On all these particulars the meaning of the words used in scripture must be ascertained, that thus we may understand what we read. Resolved, 3d. That the Presbyteries, under the care of the Assembly, be directed to take order on this subject; and they are hereby informed, that this is not to come in the place of learning the catechisms of our church, but be added to it, as an important branch of religious education. The Committee appointed to prepare a Statement of the reports of Agents, appointed by the last Assembly to solicit donations for the Funds of the Theological Seminary, reported, and their report, being read and amended, is as follows: viz. Rev. Henry Axtell, Geneva. Congregation of Geneva, A young gentleman in the congregation of Wolcot, Rev. Wm. Neill, D. D. Albany and Columbia. 27 00 5 00 27 00 5 00 32 00 32 00 Congregation of Hudson and Catskill, 520 90 520 90 Mr. Bebe, Cooperstown, 10 00 10 00 |