RECREATION
First; recreation may not be
in the use of holy things, that is, in the use of the Word, sacraments, prayer,
or in any act of religion…. Second; recreation may not be made of the sins or
offenses of men. They ought to be unto
us the matter of sorrow and mourning…. Third; we may not make recreation of
God’s judgments, or of the punishments of sin.
A Puritan Golden Treasury, compiled by I.D.E. Thomas, by
permission of Banner of Truth, Carlisle, PA. 2000, p. 232.
How are we to use
recreations?….four special rules: Rule
1. We are to make choice of recreations
that are of least offense and of best report.
Rule 2. Our recreations must be
profitable to ourselves and others, and they must tend also to the glory of
God. Rule 3. The end of our recreation must be to refresh our bodies and
minds. Rule 4. Recreation must be moderate and sparing,
even as the use of meat and drink and rest.
William Perkins
A Puritan Golden Treasury,
compiled by I.D.E. Thomas, by permission of Banner of Truth, Carlisle, PA.
2000, p. 233.