5. Because there was only one prophet (Malachi) after the last reformation of Nehemiah, until the Christian æra, and he does not predict any future deliverance of the Jewish nation; thus leaving us to conclude that the predictions of former prophets were fulfilled, as to their literal import, on the return from Babylon, and the subsequent prosperity, and, therefore, had no reference to the present dispersion.
6. Because the doctrine is encumbered with certain difficulties, which are not necessary to be encountered, because obviated by an interpretation more simple and more in harmony with the general tenor of the word of God, than that upon which the said doctrine is built.
The difficulties are of three kinds.
(1.) Arising from the magnitude of the events necessarily implied.
(2.) Arising from the ordinary course of things.
(3.) Arising from the apparent contradic
tion to Scripture testimony which the doctrine involves.
7. Because the doctrine is fruitless of good, and prolific of bad effects on the public mind in general, and on the minds of the Jews in particular.