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that has thus been nourished into such subjection, as to render it possible for it thoroughly and truly to embrace the doctrine of the Cross! But let us remember, that though "with man "it is impossible, all things are pos"sible with God."

LETTER XI.

THE repugnance which I feel to proceed with this most difficult part of my task, is, I trust, a proof that pride does not instigate me to the undertaking. I have, indeed, so little pleasure in dwelling upon the dark side of any subject, that it is only a strong conviction of its importance that could have induced me to enter upon my present theme. But when I observe the zeal which is often displayed concerning passages in Scrip

ture

ture that are merely subject of speculation, and which are so darkly expressed as to be of doubtful meaning, I should deem it inexcusable were I with lukewarm indifference to pass over what has by our Lord himself been positively and explicitly declared essential to salvation.

Were religious knowledge inevitably to produce religious principle, nothing more would be requisite than to point out to you the means of information. But your soul is precious in my sight, your interest is bound up in my heart, and therefore I cannot deceive you into such a fatal error, as that of believing that religious knowledge will entitle you to participate in the blessings purchased by the sufferings and death of the Son of God. He certainly has given us no authority to think so; but, on the contrary, has been at

VOL. II.

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infinite

infinite pains to set before us, in a variety of lights, the necessity of vigilant exertion and never-ceasing assiduity, in order to control and to subdue those passions which have their origin in an inordinate desire for the enjoyment of terrestrial good. It was seen by his infinite wisdom, that while these possessed the soul, it was impossible that the glad tidings of the Gospel should penetrate the heart.

Jesus Christ brought life and immortality to light. He changed the nature of the promises that had hitherto been made by God to man; and instead of a reward in temporal things, propounded to his followers the reward of eternal glory. But if the desire of temporal good occupies the heart, to that heart the promise has been made in vain. Therefore did our Heavenly Instructor warn us against

against all that has a tendency to lead us into this temptation. He desires us, at whatever expense of pain or mortification, to cut off the seductions that would ensnare our affections; assuring us, in the strongest terms, that we shall find it more profitable to endure any degree of temporal suffering, than to bring upon ourselves the penalty of neverending woe.

In the number of these seductions he has placed all that tends to inspire pride and selfishness, and hardness of heart; characterising these as constituting the spirit of the world. It is with this world they connect all our ideas of happiness and if our idea of supreme happiness is connected with earthly enjoyment, we must of course forego the happiness of heaven. Why should we permit ourselves to be so far imposed upon,

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