Page:The Mohammedan system of theology (IA mohammedansyste00neal).pdf/206

 sophers seldom extended beyond their particular sphere; their noblest efforts were therefore circumscribed in their operation, principally influencing their own disciples, and a few of the learned. No teacher was of sufficient weight to command general attention, and enforce it by suitable sanction. This forcibly applies to Islamism: for, though the Musulmans regard their Prophet as the Envoy of Heaven, yet how weak are their ties and obligations to obedience, in comparison with that solemn attestation borne to the character of Jesus in the Gospel! A voice from Heaven proclaimed respecting him, "This is my beloved Son: hear him."—"All power," says the ascending and triumphant Saviour, "is given unto me in heaven and in earth. I am Alpha and Omega: the first and the last: I am He who was dead, and am alive again, and I have the keys of death and hell. I know my sheep, and am known of mine, and they