of Agricola, an eminent
doctor in the Lutheran church, who flourished about the middle of the
sixteenth century. The word _Antinomian_ is derived from two Greek words,
signifying _against law_.

It will be observed that the above names are used to denote sentiments or
opinions, rather than sects or denominations.

The principal doctrines of the Antinomians, together with a short specimen
of the arguments made use of in their defence, are comprehended in the
following summary:--

"1. That the law ought not to be proposed to the people as a rule
of manners, nor used in the church as a means of instruction; and
that the gospel alone is to be inculcated and explained, both in
the churches and in the schools of learning.

"For the Scriptures declare that Christ is not the lawgiver; as it
is said, 'The law was given by Moses; but grace and truth came by
Jesus Christ.' Therefore the ministers of the _gospel_ ought not
to teach the _law_. Christians are not ruled by the law, but by
the spirit of regeneration; according as it is said, 'Ye are not
under the law, but under grace.' Therefore the law ought not to be
taught in the church of Christ.

"2. That the justification of sinners is an immanent and eternal
act of God, not only preceding all acts of sin, but the existence
of the sinner himself.

"For nothing new can arise in God; on which account, he calls
things that are not, as though they were; and the apostle saith,
'Who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly
places, in Christ Jesus, before the foundation of the world.'
Besides, Christ was set up from everlasting, not only as the Head
of the church, but as the surety of his people; by virtue of which
engagement, the Father decreed never to impute unto them their
sins. (See 2 Cor. 5: 19.)

"3. That justification by faith is no more than a manifestation to
us of what was done before we had a being.

"For it is thus expressed, in Heb. 11:1: 'Now, faith is the
substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.'
We are justified only by Christ; but by faith we perceive it, and
by faith rejoice in it, as we apprehend it to be our own.

"4. That men ought not to doubt of their faith, nor question
whether they believe in Christ.

"For we are commanded to 'draw near in full assurance of faith.'
(Heb. 10:22.) 'He