Sketches from the Life of Paul (1883) — PDF Scan 283
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276 LIFE OF PAUL . " For as concerning this sect," they said, “ we know thateverywhereitisspokenagainst." It was supplantingthereligionof theirfathers,and causingdisputationsand dissensionswhich they consideredinjurioustothepeople. Since they themselvesdesiredit, Paul bade them set a day when he couldpresenttothem thetruthsofthegospel. At thetimeappointed, many came together, " to whom he expounded and testifiedthe kingdom of God , persuading them concerningJesus, both outof thelaw of Moses,and out oftheprophets,from morningtill evening." He relatedhis own experience, and presented arguments from the Old-Testament scriptureswith simplicity,sincerity,and power. Upon some minds, at least, his words made an impressionwhich would never be effaced. All who were honestlyseekingfortruthwere convinced,as Paulspokeofwhat he knew , and testifiedof what he had seen. He showed that religiondoes not consistin ritesand ceremonies, creeds and theories. If it did,thenaturalman couldunderstanditby investigation, as he understandsworldlythings. Paul taught that religionis a practical, saving energy,a principlewhollyfromGod,a personal experienceofGod'srenewingpower uponthesoul. He showed how Moseshad pointedIsraelforward to ChristasthatProphetwhom theywere tohear; how alltheprophetshad testifiedofhim asGod'sgreatremedy forsin, theguiltlessOne who was tobearthesinsof theguilty. He did not find fault with their observance of forms and ceremonies, but showed that whilethey maintainedthe ritualservicewith great exactness, theywere rejectingHim who was theantitypeof allthat system.