=2.= A _long series_ of prophecies, all applicable to certain events, is proof that such events were intended. This answers the objection that _particular_ prophecies were not intended to be applied as Christians apply them. Mythological and satirical writings greatly resemble prophecy. Now we apply a parable, or fable, or satire, merely from seeing it _capable_ of such application. So if a long series of prophecies be _applicable_ to the present state of the world, or to the coming of Christ, it is proof that they were so _intended_. Besides, the ancient Jews, _before_ Christ, applied the prophecies to him, just as Christians do now. =3.= If it could be shown that the prophets did not understand their own predictions, or that their prophecies are capable of being applied to other events than those to which Christians apply them, it would not abate the force of the argument from prophecy, even with regard to those instances. For, 1.) To know the whole meaning of an author we must know the whole meaning of his book, but knowing the meaning of a book is not knowing the whole mind of the author. 2.) If the book is a _compilation_, the authors may have meanings deeper than the compiler saw. If the prophets spoke by inspiration, they are not the authors, but the writers of prophecy, and may not have known all that the Divine Spirit intended. But the fulfilment of the prophecy shows a foresight more than human. REMARK. This whole argument is just and real; but it is not expected that those will be satisfied who will not submit to the perplexity and labor of understanding it; or who have not modesty and fairness enough to allow an argument its due weight; or who wilfully discard the whole investigation. THE GENERAL ARGUMENT We _now_ proceed to THE GENERAL ARGUMENT embracing both direct and circumstantial evidence. A full discussion would require a volume, and cannot be expected here; but _something_ should be said, especially as most questions of difficulty, in practical affairs, are settled by evidence arising from circumstances which confirm each other. The thing asserted is that God has given us a revelation declaring himself to be a moral governor; stating his system of government; and disclosing a plan for the recovery of mankind out of sin, and raising them to perfect and final happiness. I. _Consider this revelation as a history._ =1.= It furnishes an account of the world, as God’s world. 1.) God’s providence, commands, promises, and threatenings. 2.) Distinguishes God from idols. 3.) Describes the condition of religion and of its professors, in a world considered as apostate and wicked. 4.) Political events are related as affecting religion, and not for their importance as mere political events. 5.) The history is continued by prophecy, to the end of the world.