Page:The Last Judgement and Second Coming of the Lord Illustrated.djvu/21

 and the materials so arranged as to bring out the purpose of our teaching as a speculative sequel. But the doctrines which we have to announce do not present themselves to us as speculations, but as facts; and therefore we have preferred the franker course. There is no wish to surprise any into the acceptance of what is taught, nor to commit them to any sentiments which do not, commend themselves to their reasonable piety and good sense. Our desire is to present what has been perceived from the teachings of Swedenborg and the New Church, to the quiet reflection and judgment of sincere and thoughtful men,—to men who feel an intellectual interest in knowing the meaning of what their Divine Master has taught them in His Word,—to men who are earnest in their endeavour to avoid mistaken interpretation of His teachings,—to men who love the truth, and who will not be deterred from adopting it, when it is perceived, because it may happen to reach them through some unexpected channel, or some unpopular source. And the result is humbly left to the wise providence of Him without whom no truth can be spoken and no good can be done.

It is hoped that in the treatment of the various subjects which appeared to be requisite for the elucidation of the main object of this work, nothing has been said but in the kindest spirit. If any word is employed which would seem to have an uncharitable meaning, the reader is assured that no such meaning is intended. Truth can always afford to be gentle and forbearing; it is a power belonging to humanity and tenderness, and it becomes more and more beautiful as it is wielded with leniency and love.

Though in the preparation of the work it has been felt necessary to oppose many things which popular Christianity receives, yet we are not conscious of having written a single