If the question is allowed to be
one of reasonable debate, will not that attitude be confirmed?
Especially when the doctrine of endless suffering has so long been
recognized as the orthodox doctrine, will not any apparent going back on
that doctrine seem a justification of disbelief in what is really
evangelical? And thus might not the very opening of the question be a
serious injury to some?
While it is freely admitted that there is a degree of justice in this
plea, there are certain considerations that must not be lost sight of.
There is first, the sacredness and the safety of truth. Whatever is the
truth in the case must be discovered if possible, and defended at all
hazards. Our Lord's prayer was, "Sanctify them through thy truth," So
truth has a sanctifying power. It may be pleasant or unpleasant in the
discovery, but is beneficent in the long run. We are not to shrink then
from the discovery of it. We are to search for it, as for hidden
treasures, whatever prejudices and errors it may overturn. It is of God,
and is certain to triumph in the end. And it can issue in no ultimate
evil, but in everlasting good, despite all our fears.
* * * * *
Then in this case, we are contending for a truth which brings
unspeakable glory to God. As the matter appears to me, His wisdom, power
and love, are exalted above all conception.
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