The hope of this, moreover, is sustained by the character and position of some, who not only stand high in the theological world, but are among the most revered and beloved in that family circle, where the golden chain of perfect love has never for a moment been sundered by the widest diversities of opinion or the freest discussion of differences. What has transpired in one Christian family, it is believed, may be but the emblem of what is yet to prevail among the true children of Him, “of whom the whole family in heaven and on earth is named.”(22) NOTE. The work often referred to in the preceding pages, was written, at first, on a more limited plan than now appears. After a portion was printed, it was perceived that the discussion contained in this volume was indispensable, and the title at first designed for the _whole_ work, became inappropriate to the first portion when issued alone. In making a change, the result has been, that the work has sometimes been advertised by its first name, the BIBLE AND THE PEOPLE, and sometimes by its second name, COMMON SENSE APPLIED TO RELIGION, and sometimes by both together. Hereafter, the title of the first volume will be COMMON SENSE APPLIED TO RELIGION. This volume is the second portion. The final portion, not yet published, will be entitled THE BIBLE INTERPRETED BY COMMON SENSE. NOTES. Note A. The new school divines agree with the old school in teaching that previous to regeneration every moral act is _sin and only sin_, and that God has made no promises to unregenerate doings, which would obligate him to re‐ create the soul, in return for such performances. On the contrary, they urge man himself to change his own heart, as that which is possible without any aid from God. And the interference of God to regenerate is represented by them as an act of sovereign, elective mercy, unbought by any labor or striving on the part of man. Still, they encourage the use of the means of grace as the way in which God ordinarily meets the sinner, in bestowing this gift. They urge that _experience_ proves, that though regeneration is not _promised_ to the use of the means of grace, it is more frequently bestowed on those who use them than on those who neglect them. Note B. There are three points on the subject of the future state, which need to be discussed separately. The first is, will there be an eventual separation of the human race, at some final consummation, so that from that point, through all eternity, there will be two separate communities, the good being perfect in character and happiness, and the bad reaping the natural results of their evil tempers and conduct _for ever_? The second is, does our conduct in this life have an influence in deciding our _degrees_ of happiness or misery in a future state, so that we reap the natural good or evil consequences of all we do here _for ever_?