WRITTEN TOO SOON

On one occasion the late John Newton was travelling in a railroad train when he found himself in the presence of an infidel, who soon began to obtrude his opinion upon his fellow-passengers, declaring his contempt for the Bible, adding that he did not need it; the book of nature affording him all the information that he required on religious and moral subjects. John Newton, observing a young man in the company who might receive some injury from these remarks, deemed it his duty to interfere. Looking at the infidel, he said, “The book of nature, sir, that you have mentioned, is a large volume, and he is a very learned man that is acquainted with all its contents. Yet there is one subject on which I think it gives no information.” “Indeed,” said the infidel, “what is that?” “What is that?” rejoined John Newton, “It is Salvation.”

“Salvation!” exclaimed the infidel.

“Aye, salvation,” rejoined Newton. Every man is sensible from what passes in his own conscience that he has done wrong and that that which all people confess to be morally wrong, everywhere meets our sight. To do wrong renders us liable to punishment, and therefore we need salvation. But where do you find anything about salvation in the book of nature? Do you find it in the grass of the fields, either when it grows or when it fades away? Do you find it in the ever varying surface of the sea? Or in the clouds as they pass over your head? The book which you so exclusively admire was written too soon for the purpose of instructing men with respect to the nature and method of salvation. It was written before there was, sin in the world, and therefore before salvation was needed.”

The infidel stood aghast, and said not a word.

Old Faith Defender

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