Marcion; Or, the Magician of Antioch, a Drama (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. 1860 edition. Excerpt: ... the tender love you bear towards the suffering spouse of Christ, His holy Church. It asks from you to-day a sacrifice. Seraph. Call it not so. We only ask for help to ward off danger, and by means that will involve no sacrifice, but lead to joy. Just. What help can a weak creature like myself afford? Seraph. Tell her. Luc. A fearful persecution menaces the Church of Antioch; and utter ruin hovers o'er the flock. You can avert it. And they have entreated me to use a mother's importunity, if so I may prevail on you, to be their guardian angel in this day of fear. Just. What power have I in Antioch, that I should stay its passions? Luc. There is one who might disperse the gathering storm, could he be brought to lend his influence to the Christian cause. And you have power with him. Just. Mother --You top --But no, it cannot be;--and yet I fear.--Whom do you mean? Is he a Christian? Luc. Not as yet. You would convert him. Seraph. And thus save a noble soul from ruin. Just. All --What all Are all in league against me?--Heaven and hell?--Have I no refuge left? Seraph. Where could you find a safer refuge than in him, who has at once the power and will, to raise you up so high, that even envy could not reach you? Luc. You have often said, my child, that Antioch was for you the destined theatre of great events. Now your presentiment finds its fulfilment. Eecognize in this the hand of God, who would exalt you, as of old He did the niece of Mordeeai, to save His people. Just. She was not affianced to a heavenly spouse. Luc. He-whom you call your spouse refuses to accept your vows. Just. How can that be? To you I owe obedience, and you gave consent. The Church of Jesus, in His name, accepted me, and gave her blessing to my union with Him. Luc. That same...