=1.= If a man were in doubt whether a certain person had done him the greatest favor, or whether his whole temporal interest depended on him, he ought not to regard that person as he would if there were _no_ reason to think so. =2.= So if there is only reason to apprehend that Christianity _may_ be true, we are as much bound to _examine_, &c. as we would be bound to _obey_, if we _knew_ it was true. =3.= Considering the infinite importance of religion, there is not much difference as to what ought to be the mode of life of those who are convinced and those who doubt its truth. Their hopes and fears are the same in kind, though not in degree; and so their obligations are much the same. =4.= Doubts presuppose _some_ evidence, belief _more_, and certainty _more still_. Each state should influence our conduct, and does so, in common things. =5.= It shows a mental defect not to see evidence unless it is glaring; and a corrupt heart not to be influenced by it unless overpowering. _Thirdly._ Difficulties as to believing religion, are no more a ground of complaint, than difficulties in practising it. =1.= They constitute a wholesome discipline. 1.) In allowing an unfair mind to deceive itself. 2.) In requiring belief and the practice of virtue under some uncertainties. =2.= In the case of some minds, speculative difficulties as to the evidence of religion is the _principal_ trial. A full conviction of its truth would _constrain_ some to obedience. _Fourthly._ The difficulties may be _in the objector_ rather than in the religion. =1.= Not sufficiently in earnest to be informed. =2.= Secretly _wishes_ religion not to be true. =3.= Looks at objections rather than replies. =4.= Treats the subject ludicrously. _Fifthly._ The proof of Christianity is level to common men. =1.= They are capable of being convinced of the existence of God, and of their moral accountability. =2.= And they can understand the evidence of miracles, and the fulfilment of prophecy. =3.= If they are capable of seeing the difficulty, they are capable of understanding the proof. =4.= If they pick up objections from hearsay, and will not or cannot examine them thoroughly, they must remain ignorant, just as they do as to the sciences. _Objec._ Our directions should be too plain to _admit_ of doubt; like those of an earthly master. _Ans._ The earthly master only wants his work done, and is careless as to the state of the heart; but as the whole of morality consists in the state of the heart, the cases are not parallel.