82 109, 142, 149 xvi. 19-31 xvii. 26-37 198, 203, 223, 226 ii. 11, 12, 16 67, 80, 86, 94, 126, 162 xix. 41-44 THEOLOGICAL DISCUSSION. TO EZRA STILES ELY, STEPHEN H. TYNG, WILLIAM T. BRANTLEY, AND ALBERT BARNES, Clergymen of the City of Philadelphia. Brethren-Of all subjects ever presented for the consideration of man, that which relates to our final destiny is unquestionably the most important. The concerns of time are not worthy to be compared with the affairs of eternity. A few more years, and the present generation will be numbered with those that have gone before us to the world of spirits. And no one who accredits the doctrine of "life and immortality" can be altogether insensible to the importance of the question, What shall be the future condition of man? You believe that a part or portion of the human race will be doomed to future endless punishment. You believe that this doctrine is revealed in the Bible, and that the Scriptures not only authorize but command you to proclaim it as the truth of heaven. On the other hand, we expressly deny that said doctrine is true. We expressly deny that it is taught in the Bible, and hereby declare our solemn conviction, that you cannot prove the endless punishment of any part or portion of mankind. And we farther certify you, that we feel ourselves obligated to believe whatever doctrine can be fairly and clearly established by Scripture testimony. With these views, and prompted solely by a desire to extend the knowledge and influence of Divine truth, we are induced respectfully to invite your attention to the following proposals: Will you (or either of you) deliver a series of Lectures in our churches respectively, during this winter, in proof of the doctrine of future endless misery? Not more than two of said Lectures to be delivered each week-that is, one in |