The errors of popular theology have driven many a soul to skepticism who might otherwise have been a believer in the Scriptures. It is impossible
for him to accept doctrines which outrage his sense of justice, mercy, and benevolence;and since these are represented
as the teaching of the Bible, he refuses to receive it as the word of God. And this is the object which
Satan seeks to accomplish.
There is nothing that he desires more than to destroy confidence in God and in His word. Satan stands at the head of the great army of doubters,
and he works to the utmost of his power to beguile souls into his ranks. It is becoming
fashionable to doubt. There is a large class by whom the word of God is looked upon with distrust for the same reason as
was its Author--because it
reproves and condemns sin. Those who are unwilling to obey its requirements endeavor to overthrow its authority. They read the Bible, or listen to its teachings as presented from the
sacred desk, merely to find fault with the Scriptures or with the
sermon. Not a few become infidels in order to justify or excuse themselves in neglect of
duty. Others adopt skeptical principles from pride and indolence, they aim to secure a reputation for superior wisdom by criticizing the Bible.
There is much which the finite mind, unenlightened by divine wisdom, is powerless to comprehend; and thus they find
occasion to criticize. There are many who seem to feel that it is a virtue to stand on the side of unbelief, skepticism, and infidelity. But underneath an appearance of candor it will be found that such persons are actuated by self-confidence and
pride. Many delight in finding something in the Scriptures to puzzle the minds of others.
Some at first criticize and
reason on the wrong side, from a mere love of controversy. They do not realize that they are thus entangling themselves in the snare of the fowler. But having openly expressed unbelief, they
feel that they must maintain their position. Thus they unite with the ungodly and close to themselves the gates of
Paradise. God has given in His word sufficient evidence of its divine
character. The great truths
which concern our redemption are clearly presented. By the aid
of the Holy Spirit, which is promised to all who seek it in sincerity, every man may understand these truths for himself. God has granted to men a strong foundation upon which
to rest their faith. Yet the finite minds of men are
inadequate fully to comprehend the plans and purposes of the Infinite One. We can never by
searching, find out God. We must not attempt to lift with presumptuous hand the curtain behind which He veils His majesty. The apostle exclaims:
"How unsearchable are His
judgments, and His ways past finding out!" Romans 11:33. We can so far comprehend His
dealings with us, and the
motives by which He is
actuated, that we may discern boundless love and mercy united to infinite power. Our Father in heaven orders everything in wisdom and righteousness, and we are not to be dissatisfied and
distrustful, but to bow in
reverent submission. He will reveal to us as much of His purposes as it is for our good to know, and beyond that we must trust the Hand that is omnipotent, the Heart that is full of love. While God has given ample evidence for faith, He will never remove all excuse for unbelief. All who look for hooks to hang their doubts upon will find them. And those who refuse to accept and obey God's word until every objection has been
removed, and there is no longer an opportunity for doubt, will never come to the light. Distrust of God is the natural outgrowth of the unrenewed heart, which is at enmity with
Him. But faith is inspired by the Holy Spirit, and it will flourish only as it is cherished. No man can become strong in faith
without a determined effort. Unbelief strengthens as it is
encouraged; and if men, instead of dwelling upon the evidences which God has given to sustain their faith, permit themselves to
question and cavil, they will find their doubts constantly becoming more confirmed. But those who doubt God's promises and distrust the assurance of His grace are dishonoring Him; and their influence, instead of drawing
others to Christ, tends to repel them from Him. There is but one course for
those to pursue who honestly desire to be freed from doubts.
Instead of questioning and
caviling concerning that which they do not understand, let them give heed to the light which already shines upon them, and they will receive
greater light. Let them do every duty which has been made plain to their understanding, and they will be enabled to understand and perform those of which they are now in doubt. Satan can present a counterfeit
so closely resembling the truth that it deceives those who are willing to be deceived, but it is impossible for him to hold under his power one soul who honestly desires,
at whatever cost, to know the truth. Christ is the truth and the "Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world." John 1:9. The Spirit of
truth has been sent to guide men into all truth. And upon the authority of the Son of God it is
declared: "Seek, and ye shall find." "If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine." Matthew 7:7; John
7:17.