wild enthusiast. A tender seriousness, a meek devotion, and an humble joy, are the qualities which it was intended, and is calculated, to produce in all her members.
III. It remains that we yet further trace the excel- lence of our Liturgy, in its moderation and candour.
The whole Christian world has from time to time been agitated with controversies of different kinds ; and human passions have grievously debased the characters and actions even of good men in every age. But it should seem that the compilers of our Liturgy were inspired with a wisdom and moderation peculiar to themselves. They kept back no truth whatever, through fear of giving offence ; yet were careful so to state every truth, as to leave those in- excusable who should recede from the Church on account of any sentiments which she maintained. In this, they imitated the inspired penmen ; who do not dwell on doctrines after the manner of human systems, but introduce them incidentally, as it were, as occasion suggests, and bring them forward always in connexion with practical duties. The various per- fections of God are all stated in different parts ; but all in such a way, as, without affording any occasion for dispute, tends effectually to encourage us in our addresses to him. The Godhead of Christ is con- stantly asserted, and different prayers are expressly addressed to him ; but nothing is said in a way of contentious disputation. The influences of the Holy Spirit, from whom all holy desires, all good counsels, and all just works do proceed, are stated; and "the inspiration of the Holy Spirit is sought, in order that we may perfectly love God, and worthily magnify his holy Name :" but all is conveyed in a way of humble devotion, without reflections upon others, or even a word that can lead the thoughts to contro- versy of any kind. Even the deepest doctrines of our holy religion are occasionally brought forth in a practical view (in which view alone they ought to be regarded ;) that, whilst we contemplate them as truths, we may experience their sanctifying efficacy