That is the doctrine of the church; but it does not seem
expedient to express it. Why? Because it is not believed. If it were
believed would there not be plenty of funds to carry the gospel to the
ends of the earth? So we hang on in theory to the doctrine of eternal
torment; but we do not dare, nor are we inclined, to express it. Surely
it is time for a change; yes, a change to honesty and candor. If we are
undecided, let us say so; the truth will prevail in due time. It is "to
the upright there ariseth light in the darkness."
Nor, as I have said, does the circular give a hint or hope of what the
heathen are to be saved to. There is no suggestion of "glory, honor, and
immortality." Is not this altogether too vague a way of extorting money?
But let it be made clear that by our efforts the worst of the heathen
will be put in the way of salvation, and in many cases of possession of
it, and I think there would be no lack of funds. Let it be shown that
whatever there is of future suffering is on account of sin, and that it
is a divine preparation for eternal joy, and the most hardened and
selfish will have a worthy appeal to their liberality.
For notwithstanding all hardness and selfishness, there is deep down in
the human heart a feeling of wonderful kindness for our own kith and
kin.
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