We the truth, that they might be saved. know, that there is such a thing as Heresy; and whatever it may be, its issue is most devoutly to be deprecated: for it destroys the soul. These considerations call for watchfulness to detect, and firmness to expose error. In this firmness, we have the Apostle Paul for an example. Without doubt, those false teachers, whose errors he exposed and combatted, reproached him for a bigot, because he insisted upon a particular system of doctrine. It is certain, that they attempted to injure his reputation, and diminish his influence.--What then? Did he abandon the cause? Did he suppose, that charity required him to yield the truth, and submit, in silence, to error? No, the pressure of opposition made him insist the more on those doctrines which he had taught: Charity prompted him to expose false religion, and guard mankind against its pernicious influence. The primitive Christians and reformers sup posed themselves authorized to judge what was Heresy. They supposed, that Heretics had forfeited the character of Christians; and that they were to be viewed as enemies to the cross of Christ. When they carried their disapprobation so far as to persecute and distress those whom they supposed to be Heretics, their conduct was reprehensible. Charity forbids all virulence, personal hatred, and injury. It will prompt men to exertion, to promote the present and future well-being of all who are within their influence. That true. benevolence, which aims at the most extensive good, which would secure to men a future as well as present happiness, will influence us to contend for those truths of the Gospel which point out the only way of acceptance with God. If we really exercise good will towards men, we shall desire that they may be guarded against error, and that the truth may produce in them its salutary effects. Therefore, arguments press upon us from the exigencies of the times, and from the importance of truth, to stand forth with firmness in its defence. Finally, may we abound in that charity which is the bond of perfectness; that charity which will influence us to approve of what God approves, and abhor that which he abhors that charity which will prompt us to be subservient to the highest interests of our fellow men to discountenance whatever of error we observe in them, and to guard them against its destructive influence: and to contend for the truth, that it may produce its salutary effects; and that all may find the consolation which is in Christ. While we contend for the truth, let us avoid all asperity of manner, all reproach, personal hatred, and injury. Let us endeavor, by kindness, and love unfeigned, to commend that truth, which we deem most precious, to the regard of others. Itisinthe exercise of this charity, that the children of God are made. manifest. ERRATA. Page 120, last line, for scale read sale. |