Nor let any hold them irreverently. Some will speak of these deep things of God as familiarly as if there were no mystery at all in them, or as if they were the uninspired dogmas of some ancient philosopher. But when we enter on " such holy ground," we should, as Moses, " take off our shoes," and pro- ceed with reverential awe. " God is in heaven, and we upon earth ; therefore should our words be few," and diffident, and humble.
Nor should they be maintained uncharitably. Many there are who cannot see these truths, who yet are in a state truly pleasing to God ; yea many, at whose feet the best of us may be glad to be found in heaven. It is a great evil, when these doctrines are made a ground of separation one from another, and when the advocates of different systems anathematize each other. Let all such dispositions be banished from the Church of God. Whoever may be wrong, they never can be right who violate charity, or refuse to others the right of judging for themselves. For the fundamental truths of Christianity, we must contend to the uttermost, (though even for them with meekness and love :) but in reference to truths which are involved in so much obscurity as those which relate to the sovereignty of God, mutual kindness and concession are far better than vehement argumentation and uncharitable dis- cussion.
Lastly, let not these truths be maintained exclusively. Many are so partial to these deeper truths, that they can hardly con- descend to speak of repentance and faith ; and, as for exhorta- tions to duty, they are apt to think such things legal and carnal. O beloved ! flee from such a spirit, as you would from the plague : wherever it exists, it betrays a sad want of humility. Be ye as little children : let every word of God be dear to you;