The extraordinary and unhesitating confidence with which you state your
opinions, even on the most important and solemn subjects, and the air of
authority with which you endeavour to enforce them, is in such striking
contrast to that humility and reverence with which we are accustomed to
hear such subjects treated, that it naturally excites some suspicion
that there are views and feelings in the mind of the preacher not in
accordance with that meek and quiet spirit which is the necessary
qualification of a Christian teacher: and when we turn from the tone and
manner of the discourse to some of the opinions delivered, I am afraid
that suspicion will ripen into certainty, and that there will be too
much evidence of a mind not habituated to reflections on its own
infirmities, but proud[28] in its acquirements, and vaunting in its own
strength. For we find you glorying in the ability to withstand the enemy
of your peace, and gratifying yourself with the honour to be derived
from the victory.[29] In this elevation of mind you say, that it would
be a debasement to man, were he placed by the Almighty in a situation
from which he could not fall;[30] and that had we been content to remain
in a state of innocence, we should have continued to be but as mere
machines.[31] To rely on any other than your own exertions you think
degrading, and would not accept the sacrifice which is offered for your
sins by the sufferings and death of Jesus Christ.[32]
Footnote 28: