Wesley Corpus

But you will not say, all who hold it love God; so it is no certain means to that end. Nor will you say, that none love him who hold it not : Neither, therefore, is it a necessary means. But, indeed, when you talk at all of its “making men love God,” you know not what you do. You lead men into more danger than you are aware of You almost unavoid ably lead them into resting on that opinion; you cut them off from a true dependence on the fountain of living waters, and strengthen them in hewing to themselves broken cisterns, which can hold no water. 86. This is my grand objection to the doctrine of reproba tion, or (which is the same) unconditional election. That it is an error, I know ; because, if this were true, the whole Scripture must be false. But it is not only for this--because it is an error--that I so earnestly oppose it, but because it is an error of so pernicious consequence to the souls of men; because it directly and naturally tends to hinder the inward work of God in every stage of it. 87. For instance: Is a man careless and unconcerned, utterly dead in trespasses and sins?--Exhort him then (suppose he is of your own opinion) to take some care of his immortal soul. “I take care!” says he: “What signifies my care? Why, what must be, must be. If I am elect, I must be saved; and if I am not, I must be damned.” And the reasoning is as just and strong, as it is obvious and natural. It avails not to say, “Men may abuse any doctrine.” So they may. But this is not abusing yours. It is the plain, natural use of it. The premises cannot be denied, (on your scheme,) and the conse quence is equally clear and undeniable. Is he a little serious and thoughtful now and then, though generally cold and lukewarm?--Press him then to stir up the gift that is in him; to work out his own salvation with fear and trembling. “Alas,” says he, “what can I do !