We set down as a principle of sound common
sense, as well as religion, that every truth of the Bible which is
concerned in making men wise unto salvation, is to be taught to every
soul whose salvation is to be sought, and that at every period of life.
Let a few words be said, relative to the advantages of thorough and
faithful instruction of the young, in the doctrines and duties of the
gospel. It pre-occupies and guards their minds against religious error.
It prepares them early and discriminately to perceive and understand the
difference between Bible truth, and the words taught by men, however
ingenious and plausible. It exerts a salutary moral influence, even
before conversion takes place,--which is of high importance to a life of
correct morality. It prepares the way for intelligent and sound
conversion to God, whenever that desirable event takes place; and for
subsequent solidity and strength of Christian character, to the end of
life. Added to these, it may in strict propriety be asserted, that the
influence of thorough instruction in the sound and sacred truths of
God's word is inestimable upon the intellect as well as on the heart.
Divine truth is the grand educator of the immortal mind. It is therefore
an instrumentality to be used in childhood and youth, as well as in
adult years.
The objection often made, to omit instruction as advocated in this
article,--that children and youth cannot understand it,--is founded in a
mistake.
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