_But covet earnestly the best gifts; and yet show I unto you a more
excellent way._
What was proposed, in attending to these words, through divine help,
was to consider the GENERAL EXCELLENCE of the Christian Religion.
Could a deep impression of this be made upon the mind, a very
material point would be gained. For when people are once convinced in
their judgments, of this, they will be, in some good measure,
prepared to listen to the proposals of mercy made to them, and their
attention will be excited. Of course they may be said to be not far
_from the kingdom of heaven._
If possible, I would offer such arguments and considerations, as that
you shall be unable either to resist, or to hear with cold unconcern.
Let reason and reflection work. Weigh all that has been, or may be
still offered to you, in the even balance of candour and
deliberation; and be resolved that your minds shall be open to truth
and reason: and if you find, as I trust you will, upon the closest
examination, and most impartial attention, that the proofs of the
EXCELLENCE of the Christian Religion are full, clear, and
satisfactory, let your lives and future practice be consonant to your
conviction.
We have already in the progress of our discussion adduced _six
arguments_ to establish the point before us, and enlarged upon them,
according to what propriety demanded of us.