But he is
not a Christian. He dies suddenly; and where does he go? The idea of
Restoration settles all difficulty. The good that is in him is
developed; ultimately he is fit for the inheritance of the saints. In no
other way can we think of a wise and gracious disposal of him.
In connection with this idea we cannot but note that even dying saints
are by no means perfect in general. There are many cases in which the
last sickness seems to bring no marked change. Yet we have the assured
hope that all is well. But if we look at the matter critically, we see
no evidence of a state of perfection being reached. There seems to be a
need of a refining process on the other side of death; and if it is
needed it is provided.
There is a recognized principle, too, that whatsoever is really good
will not perish. This is true, both in the domain of physics and of
morals. If therefore there is even the beginning of goodness in any
soul, it is but reasonable to assume that such goodness will persist,
and be completed either on this side of death or on the other side. Such
an idea seems to be highly compatible with a beneficent, divine
government.
If it be asked why such a process is not carried out always on this side
of time, I say we must be cautious about irreverently intruding into
divine methods.
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