But I noticed
that neither of the speakers had any note of definiteness in regard to
the fate of the heathen after death. It did seem to me that one of them
came once very near to the idea of eternal extinction, but did not
candidly commit himself to it. The other seemed to approach the theory
of torment, but drew back. The whole performance, eloquent though it
was, seemed to me largely shorn of its effectiveness of appeal, because
of its indefiniteness. Surely, we want to know what doom the heathen are
to be saved from, if we are to be moved to any adequate enterprise or
liberality. The few small coins on the collection plates on the occasion
referred to, bore unmistakable testimony to the fact that the fervid
appeals had produced a very meagre result.
If men really believe in everlasting torment, why do they not plainly
say so? If it is true, surely it is the strongest motive that could be
urged on behalf of missions. Perhaps ministers think that the time is
not yet come for an avowal of the larger view, and that in the meantime
it is wise not to commit themselves. But is not that very much the same
as to say that they are waiting for the current of popular favor before
they dare to be faithful? And does it not argue a want of faith in the
truth as a sanctifying and saving power? And is further truth likely to
be revealed to us if we deliberately shut our minds to such light as is
offered? I say, let the truth prevail, though the heavens should fall.
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