The works of the Rev. Isaac Watts, D. D. in nine volumes (volume 1 of 9)Watts, Isaac
Religion
The works of the Rev. Isaac Watts, D. D. in nine volumes (volume 1 of 9)
Watts, Isaac
Dissenters, Religious -- England; Sermons, English -- 18th century; Theology -- Early works to 1800; Theology -- History -- 18th century
I answer, That almost all those things wherein protestants differ, are
but of smaller importance in religion, in comparison of those many and
great things wherein they agree. The chief and most important points of
christianity are written with so much plainness and evidence in the word
of God, as would lead all humble, honest, sincere and diligent enquirers
into a belief of them, and consent in them. Now it is not necessary that
the lesser matters of christianity should be written down so expressly
in scripture: For the all-wise God thought it proper to leave many of
these articles of less importance more dubious and obscure, both to
awaken the diligence of men to study his word, and to leave amongst them
some occasions for the exercise of their mutual charity and forbearance.
Our blessed Lord has thought it proper to put the universal love which
he requires amongst his followers, to this test or trial, to see whether
they will cultivate peace and charity to one another amidst their
various and divided opinions in things of less concernment.
I confess there are some differences among protestants in the great
doctrines of the Trinity, and the satisfaction of Christ, which must be
acknowledged to be articles of very high moment and importance in
christianity. But if we compare those few who profess dangerous opinions
in these points with the millions that agree in the same general
profession of faith, it will be found that their number is but very
small. If we consider the great ignorance of God, which is found in all
men by nature, and take a survey of the unhappy influences that
education, fancy, passion, pride, friendship, aversion, precipitance and
laziness, have upon mankind in forming their judgments and opinions, we
shall not wonder to find some persons here and there falling into
strange sentiments, contrary to the plain and sufficient evidence of
scripture. We believe in general, that whoever puts off all prejudices,
and is piously sincere in his search of the word of God, shall certainly
find, through divine assistance, all needful truth. If therefore a
disbeliever come with a serious, humble, and pious mind, and apply
himself with diligence and fervent prayer to read the scripture; I am
well assured he will become a christian, and find out so much of the
doctrines and duties of the gospel, as are necessary to his eternal
happiness.
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