more instance. The words, and garb, and customs of that
sect of Christians called Quakers may be formal enough; founded, no
doubt, as in the former case, upon a mistaken interpretation of a
passage in the Bible. But they are at least harmless; and have long
been associated with the simplicity, and benevolence, and Christian
humbleness of this body of Christians--the followers of one who, three
hundred years ago, set out upon the glorious enterprise of making all
men friends. Now would it be Christian, or would it not rather be
something more than unchristian--would it not be gross rudeness and
coarse unfeelingness to treat such words, and habits, and customs,
with anything but respect and reverence?

Further: the apostle enjoined this duty upon the Corinthian converts,
of abridging their Christian liberty, not merely because it might give
pain to indulge it, but also because it might even lead their brethren
into sin. For, if any man should eat of the flesh offered to an idol,
feeling himself justified by his conscience, it were well: but if any
man, overborne by authority or interest, were to do this, not
according to conscience, but against it, there would be a distinct and
direct act of disobedience--a conflict between his sense of right and
the gratification of his appetites, or the power of influence; and
then his compliance would as much damage his conscience and moral
sense as if the act had been wrong in itself.

In the personal application of these remarks, there are three things
which we have to say. The first is this:--Distinguish I pray you,
between this tenderness for a brother's conscience and mere
time-serving. This same apostle whom we here see so gracefully giving
way upon the ground of expediency when Christian principles were left
entire, was the same who stood firm and strong as a rock when any
thing was demanded which trenched upon Christian principle. When some
required as a matter of necessity for salvation, that these converts
should be circumcised, the apostle says--"To whom we gave place by
subjection, no, not for an hour!" It was not indifference--it was not
cowardice--it was not the mere love of peace, purchased by the
sacrifice of principle, that prompted this counsel--but it was
Christian love--that delicate and Christian love which dreads to
tamper with the sanctities of a brother's conscience.

2. The second thing we have to say is this--that this abr