Читать книгу Plain Parochial Sermons, preached in the Parish Church of Bolton-le-Moors онлайн

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Here, you observe, we have a remarkable declaration from the mouth of an Apostle, that a people, however talented and learned, were still wrapt in the mantle of darkness, with regard to their real good and happiness; with regard to their religious and moral condition. Whatever nature had done for them, to whatever eminence they had been raised by art or industry, they were left far short of the object which it concerned them most to attain—an acquaintance with God, a knowledge and practice of His law; a peace with Him and with their own consciences. So far were they from this, that their characters were stained with the most debasing vices; their secret sins were too abominable even to be mentioned.

Thus we see how little the instructions and advantages of this world have to do with reforming the conduct, or amending the depraved heart of man. And what was true in this instance, is true in all; there is no teaching, there are no rules of prudence, no maxims however wise, no manners however polished, that can cleanse the heart of its natural unrighteousness, and curb its natural propensity to evil: give what you may, educate as you may, man, if left to his own wisdom and strength, will remain what he is by fallen nature, a weak, a wayward, and a wicked being; an enemy to holiness and to God. There may be a shew of wisdom “falsely so called;” there may be a refined conversation and a polished outside; but there will always be uncleanness remaining within. The evil principles may wear a dazzling veil, and the vices may be clothed in fashionable garments, but they will be evil principles and vices still.