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of gods; and to establish the providence of the living God in the government of the universe. There is also a further design in this sacred communication. The heart of man was to be changed, and his understanding enlightened, that he might see the defects and limited capacities of his own nature; and the absolute relation which he holds with his Creator; and desire and seek regeneration, and sanctification, and salvation. "The Lord. . . . . is not willing that any should perish, but that all men should come to the knowledge of the truth." He therefore places before them a revelation of His will. But even this revelation cannot be received, unless God himself give them spiritual understanding*, because it is to be spiritually discerned.t Hence the use, and the promised efficacy of prayer, for an understanding heart, and a teachable spirit: neither of which, we have by nature, or can have before the Spirit of God operates upon our hearts and minds, and renews their weak and corrupted powers.

I am, &c.

* Col.i. 9.

+ 1 Cor.ii. 14.

LETTER V.'

AN ENQUIRY INTO THE PRINCIPLES OF MORAL

PHILOSOPHY.

DEAR SIR,

57

LETTER V.

1824.

THE object of my preceding letters being once admitted, viz. that we can arrive at no know, ledge of God, save through His own revelation; we look " through nature up to nature's God," and behold with wonder and admiration the design, the order, and the harmony of the universe; and acknowledge with thanksgiving and adoration, that more wonderful and harmonious providence, which worketh all things together for the good of those who love God. In the works of creation man thus stands preeminent, "the glory," says the poet; but he also adds, "the jest and riddle of the world." I here purpose to review the doctrine of his moral nature.

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The earliest philosophers have felt that the views of man were indistinct respecting the end and aim of his own existence, and his knowledge incomplete respecting the capacities and powers of his nature; and they strove through the exercise of reason, to invent a system, which might give to virtue a more dignified name and

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