Having thus explained the Apostle's assertion, I will now endeavour to point out the proper bearings of it, in a few reflections.
1. How inexpedient is it for novices to dogmatize
in matters of religion !
[It was in a way of reproof to such persons, that the Apostle uttered the words before us. There were some who " desired to be teachers of the law, whilst yet they understood not what they said, nor whereof they affirmed11." Now, such persons there are in the Church at all times: and, in fact, there are no persons more dogmatical than those who have espoused some favourite theory of religion ; nor is there any subject whatever on which men express greater confidence than this. And what is the consequence ? They are given to " vain jangling ;" and all their conversation is on subjects which, when so treated, can never administer to " godly edifying." Earnestly would I entreat all persons, and espe- cially those who are but novices in religion, to remember, that they have yet much to learn ; and that they need to be well instructed themselves, before they presume to make their own sentiments a standard for all around them.]
2. How absurd is it to condemn religion for the
faults of those who profess it !
[The persons whom the Apostle reproved, had abused the law. But did the Apostle account the law itself responsible for them? No: he said, and said with confidence, "We know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully :" and, if he use it unlawfully, it is he, and not the law, that is to be blamed. So, then, do I say in relation to religion itself. I will grant, that, amongst those who profess it, there are still many who are full of pride, and conceit, and uncharitableness, and a thousand other evils, just as there were in the Apostle's days. But must religion itself therefore be condemned? As well might you condemn religion for Judas' sake. Learn to judge righteous judgment. You do not condemn reason, because some pervert it in support of error, and assume to themselves the title of rational Christians : neither, then, should you think the less favourably of religion, because some, under its sacred guise, indulge unholy and injurious dispositions. If, indeed, it generated, or even sanctioned, any thing that was unholy, it might well be an object of reproach: but if it inculcate only what is good, then let it have the praise that is due unto it, and those who violate it bear the blame of their own
ungodliness.]
ver. 7.