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November 19
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Our
days are few, and are far better spent in doing good, than in disputing
over matters which are, at best, of minor importance. The old schoolmen
did a world of mischief by their incessant discussion of subjects of
no practical importance; and our Churches suffer much from petty wars
over abstruse points and unimportant questions. After everything has
been said that can be said, neither party is any the wiser, and therefore
the discussion no more promotes knowledge than love, and it is foolish
to sow in so barren a field. Questions upon points wherein Scripture
is silent; upon mysteries which belong to God alone; upon prophecies
of doubtful interpretation; and upon mere modes of observing human ceremonials,
are all foolish, and wise men avoid them. Our business is neither to
ask nor answer foolish questions, but to avoid them altogether; and
if we observe the apostle’s precept (Titus 3:8) to be careful to
maintain good works, we shall find ourselves far too much occupied with
profitable business to take much interest in unworthy, contentious,
and needless strivings. There are, however, some questions which are the reverse of foolish, which we must not avoid, but fairly and honestly meet, such as these: Do I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ? Am I renewed in the spirit of my mind? Am I walking not after the flesh, but after the Spirit? Am I growing in grace? Does my conversation adorn the doctrine of God my Saviour? Am I looking for the coming of the Lord, and watching as a servant should do who expects his master? What more can I do for Jesus? Such enquiries as these urgently demand our attention; and if we have been at all given to cavilling, let us now turn our critical abilities to a service so much more profitable. Let us be peace-makers, and endeavour to lead others both by our precept and example, to "avoid foolish questions." November
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