Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1837 edition. Excerpt: ... pel, under certain points of view, is the most likely to render them discontented with their situation. In no one book is the original equality of man more strongly inculcated, contempt for the rich more prominently put forward, feelings leading to the most extended republicanism every where more discoverable. The 'powers of this world' are as dross before the ' children of light;' it is to be despised of the earth, to ' the poor in spirit, ' to ' fishermen, ' to ' publicans, ' and not to the Prince, nor to the High Priest, nor to the Doctor of the law, that the secrets of the kingdom of God are confided. The very essence of early Christian government, in conformity with the Gospel spirit, was ' equality and fraternity;' the first professors formed, in the heart of a gigantic despotism, a free, if not an independent state. But do we therefore prohibit the Gospel 1 Do we fear to place it in the hand of our peasantry Assuredly not. There are doctrines in the same sacred pages, which constitute these very safeguards. If the Gospel be read, as it ought to be, with due attention to these, danger need not be apprehended. True it is, that the peasant can scarcely guide that attention himself; but there are others who can. We therefore call them in to assist him; but this assistance once given, we are no longer doubtful of the results. Here is instruction, here is enlightenment, from which we expect the most salutary fruits. Why, then, do we shrink from education What is it, but another modification of the same process 1 If, with a judicious instructor, Gospel teaching does not infuse dissatisfaction, why, with similar precautions, should any other branch of education "That idleness should follow from discontent, is quite natural; that increase...
