Morning Star

For the Morning Star.

UNIVERSALISM. NO. 2.

The doctrine of the universal salvation of all men is either true or false. But if it is true, the Scriptures teach it, and all Christians and Christian ministers ought to know they teach that doctrine, and preach it, whatever may be its supposed consequences on the morals of the people. But that the Scriptures do not teach it, is evident from the fact that ninety-nine one-hundredths of the wisest and best men of all ages have not found it there. Moreover, the doctrine the prophets and apostles proclaimed, and especially the doctrine of Christ, and the effect of their doctrine on their hearers, deny the Bible teaches it, but very much to the contrary. Deists, who reject the divine authority of the Bible altogether, do so mainly because it teaches the final ruin of unbelievers. Believing themselves impenitent, and a great portion of mankind, in view of the consequences, they reject the authority of the Bible. "The devils also believe and tremble." But why should they tremble, if all men, with themselves, are to be saved? Many Universalists themselves don't believe the Bible teaches universalism, and therefore have resort to what is called "spirit rapping" to remove their doubts.

Universalism being false, it ought, in as wise manner as possible, and with Christian meekness, to be refuted and condemned by every true minister of the gospel. It is a false maxim, "The more you oppose an error the more it will flourish." It depends on the manner in which it is exposed and opposed. Some men will never become Christians whether they believe in universalism or not, and when converted, resort to it as mere subterfuge. It is a doctrine unnecessary, uncalled for, since all may believe and practice the truth; and such shall be saved.

M. W. B.