The Preface to the Reader.

...opinion says so; or because they have already received and maintained it, rather than from any true, impartial consideration that it is right, or from any effective, living, essential knowledge and real spiritual Being of it in their own souls, etc. But for those who think they know enough already and are so full of their own opinions original: "well conceited of their owne selves", this Author has written nothing. He writes instead for the seeking, hungry, and desiring soul that—through unfeigned repentance, conversion, and the turning inward original: "introversion" — a spiritual term for directing one's attention away from the external world and toward the presence of God within. of its will, mind, and thoughts to God—strives for the real practice of Christianity and the leading of an upright life original: "conversation" — in the 17th century, this referred to one's general conduct and way of living among others, not just speech. in all humility, meekness, simplicity, patience, forbearance, righteousness, and Christian love towards all people, without a selfish, narrow disrespect or a Pharisaical A reference to the Pharisees of the Bible, used here to describe someone who is hypocritically self-righteous or judgmental. scorning and condemning of others.

The true way and means for a person to free
☞himself from all blind arguments, disputes, doubts, errors, and controversies in religion—and to get out of that tedious maze and wearying labyrinth of troubling thoughts, ways, and opinions concerning God, Christ, Faith, and Election the theological doctrine concerning how and why individuals are chosen by God for salvation; the Ordinances referring to established religious rites or ceremonies, such as baptism or communion, or the way of worship in which the world loses itself original: "doth trace it selfe"—is faithfully set down and declared according to the foundation of the Scriptures and the true experience of this Author. The attainment of this light will give real satisfaction and assurance to the soul, so that it shall not need to say, "Is it true?" or "What arguments are there for it?" or "How