Discussion (4)
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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.
Who would not abhor that vanity of Nero, in shoeing his horses with precious gold, and causing that costly metal to be trampled under foot in the dirt, which was worthy to be the materials of a crown for the highest head on earth! Am not I a greater fool than the former, and more vain than the latter, if I spend that time- which is infinitely more costly than gold or Bezer, as having relation to eternity - wholly in worldly talk, which might be employed in declaring and admiring the boundless perfections of the blessed God
I wish that I may never spend my precious time amongst Christians, as the Athenians, who never understood the worth of that commodity, used to waste it, only in telling and hearing of news; but as Christ amongst his disciples, in discoursing of things pertaining to the kingdom of God.
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