Wesley Corpus

2. But how are these Scriptures reconcilable to the present state of things How are they consistent with what we daily see round about us, in every part of the creation If the Creator and Father of every living thing is rich in mercy towards all; if he does not overlook or despise any of the works of his own hands; if he wills even the meanest of them to be happy, according to their degree; how comes it to pass, that such a complication of evils oppresses, yea, overwhelms them How is it that misery of all kinds overspreads the face of the earth This is a question which has puzzled the wisest philosophers in all ages: And it cannot be answered without having recourse to the oracles of God. But, taking these for our guide we may inquire, I. What was the original state of the brute creation II. In what state is it at present And, III. In what state will it be at the manifestation of the children of God