The writings of this eminent divine are held in the highest estimation
by the pious of various denominations. He is acknowledged to be one of
the best advocates for evangelical truth, which the present age has
produced. His commentary on the scriptures has passed through three
large editions in this country and a fourth, larger than either of the
former is now preparing for press by W. W. W. in 3 vols. quarto, 7
dollars per volume, without any marginal references—the notes following
immediately after the text.
The work now proposed for publication is a most able and elaborate
defence of those doctrines which are commonly called evangelical, and
which are by no means peculiar to the Calvinists. The bishop of Lincoln,
published what he was pleased to call “a Refutation of Calvinism,” under
which “proscribed and odious name,” says the Christian Observer, “he has
attacked some of the fundamental points of that faith, which was once
delivered to the saints.”
“In this work of the Bishop,” continues the Christian Observer, “he has
greatly mistaken and misrepresented the sentiments and the persons he
undertook to refute, and in many important points has maintained
doctrines contrary to the declarations of scripture.”
Dr. Scott, in his remarks upon this publication of the Bishop of
Lincoln, most ably defends that system of religion, which a great body
of christians supposed to be contained in the scriptures, from the
uncandid and illiberal attacks of its enemies, and obviates the
unfounded objections which are so often brought up against it. The
reviewers in the _Christian Observer_, after occupying about sixty pages
of their miscellany in commenting on the excellencies of Dr. Scott’s
“remarks,” conclude their review with the following passage. “We cannot,
however, conclude this long extended article, without recommending the
study of Dr. Scott’s laborious work to such of our readers as feel
interested in these discussions. It will amply repay those who are
willing to undertake and patiently to pursue its perusal. If it does not
afford, what cannot be expected from any human performance, a
satisfactory solution of the difficulties which must ever attend _some_
of the subjects of which it treats, it will be found to contain a large
and valuable mass of observations on other most important theological
topics; and will, at least, leave on the mind of every unprejudiced
reader a strong impression of the extensive scriptural knowledge, the
controversial ability, and what is far more estimable than any other
qualities and attainments, the christian moderation and charity, and the
mature and vigorous piety of its author.”