Yet it is taught that the Christian, however low in
character he may be, goes straight to everlasting bliss; while the
non-Christian, though of the noblest character, is consigned to
everlasting torment. Common sense, and justice, and fitness, all rebel
at such a dictum. This is especially the case with those who have not
been early instilled with orthodox doctrines, as many of the working men
have not. This is the real equality of man--the fact that all men are
sinners, and that all need purification. Only let these facts be
honestly and definitely avowed, and I believe the chasm would largely be
bridged over.
Of course common sense and observation would recognize a marvellous
difference in men as to their need of purification. It would be
conceived that some would suffer but very slightly, or not at all; but
their eyes would be opened to see truth of which they had never dreamed.
Others might need a long and painful discipline to purge them of evil
habits which they had contracted through long years. But equality would
consist in the fact that all need to be purified in a greater or less
degree, to fit them for a higher or lower place in the better world.
Would not this be a wholesome Gospel for working men, and for all men?
Would it not be a powerful appeal to any man to be able to say to him,
"You must repent, and leave off your sins now; for if you don't do it
now, you will surely do it in the life to come?"
I do not believe that working men are specially averse to spiritual
ideas.
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