Sidor som bilder
PDF
ePub
[merged small][merged small][merged small][merged small][merged small][merged small][ocr errors][merged small]

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF ROMANISM AND

WE

PROTESTANTISM.

E are now to consider (but it must be most inadequately) some of the distinguishing characteristics of Romanism and Protestantism, as developed in their respective teaching and worship.

This is not a question of abstract theory. It is not a matter of philosophical investigation only, or scientific research, to be followed up simply for intellectual improvement. It is a living practical question, involving our very highest responsibilities, individually and nationally. It is to be felt as well as understood. Our Protestantism is to be defended also, against all enemies open and concealed; and therefore it is matter of no small thankfulness to find our young men in the large provincial towns, and our young men in the metropolis, alive to the vital importance of this inestimable treasure.

England is still Protestant at heart. Proofs of this are accumulating on every side; in the revival of that defensive tone of religious feeling, and that determined assertion of scriptural principle, by which, under the Divine blessing, our forefathers won the glorious Reformation for our country, and by which alone all the blessings of our civil and religious liberties can be maintained inviolate, and bequeathed to our children and our children's children. I have said revival, because for a time it seemed otherwise. The present generation of Englishmen know nothing of Romanism but by hearsay. A

« FöregåendeFortsätt »