Evangelical Guardian and Review Volume 2 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1818 Excerpt: ...to truths while we contradict them in practice. In order to correct, to convert efficaciously, the affections must be touched, the sentiments mnst be inclined to virtue, the sensibilities of the soul must be whetted, and the active powers of the mind directed to their proper objects. The Author of nature has wisely adapted revealed religion to the complex nature of man. Ai it is calculated to enlighten the understanding, so it is to improve the heart. Is Scripture profitable for doctrine? It is so for corrections also. Ps. xix. 7. God's law is perfect, and converts the soul that lies in sin. The statutes of the Lord are right, and do rejoice the heart. They equally err, though upon opposite extremes, who make religion to consist entirely in feelings, sensible experiences, and lively affections; and those who make no part at all of it to consist in these. What die Spirit of God hath joined in revelation let not man put asunder in practice. In our soul be conjoined intellectual with active powers: both these are to be sanctified by religion, that the whole man may give glory to God. Doctrines of truth must fill the intellect, while salutary correction is administered to the passions and affections of the mind. If either of these parts be wanting in the professors of religion, they have not yet learned Christ as tbey ought. It is not enough to know the truth, if the heart is cold and the soul inactive. In vain have we zeal and industry for the good of Zion, unless that zeal be according to knowledge. It is our duty to learn from the inspired penman of the Epistles to Timothy. While the Scriptures describe the true character of God, they detect and correct false modes of worshipping him, and turn us. -a t%(oi eiJoi, to walk through the right way of his div...