Any question which practically interests disciples, because it is closely linked to the interpretation of the Word, or to a godly life, we have no right nor power to dismiss, as of trifling importance. We may not avoid or evade an answer, though we may frame a hasty reply, or pelt with merciless sneers those who, in an age of degeneracy and apostacy, seek to gratify and satisfy a spiritual craving for full knowledge of the Truth.
From time to time, great historic movements compel attention. After centuries of burial under the rubbish of forms and falsehoods, primitive truths are brought to the surface; after centuries of decline and decay, Christian life feels the thrill of a new vitality and spirituality. There comes a "reformation," a transformation, a transfiguration, an insurrection of human thought, a resurrection of primitive faith and life. To resist such movements is folly, is madness; as well resist the tidal wave, or "sweep back with a broom" the billows of the sea. But, what may not be resisted may be guided. We may calmly discriminate between truth and error, consent to learn, take an advanced position, review previous judgments, and avoid the extreme of fanaticism.
1. Disease is represented in the Bible as one of the consequences of sin, and one of those "works of the devil" which Christ came to destroy. (Job ii. 7; Luke xiii. 16; 1 John iii. 8.)
