It is surely
time for men to think for themselves, and to throw off the authority of
names so artificially magnified. But to return from this parenthesis.) I
say, that this free exercise of reason is all I ask for the vindication
of the character of Jesus. We find in the writings of his biographers
matter of two distinct descriptions. First, a ground-work of vulgar
ignorance, of things impossible, of superstitions, fanaticisms, and
fabrications. Intermixed with these, again, are sublime ideas of the
Supreme Being, aphorisms, and precepts of the purest morality and
benevolence, sanctioned by a life of humility, innocence, and simplicity
of manners, neglect of riches, absence of worldly ambition and honors,
with an eloquence and persuasiveness which have not been surpassed.
These could not be inventions of the grovelling authors who relate them.
They are far beyond the powers of their feeble minds. They show that
there was a character, the subject of their history, whose splendid
conceptions were above all suspicion of being interpolations from their
hands. Can we be at a loss in separating such materials, and ascribing
each to its genuine author? The difference is obvious to the eye and
to the understanding, and we may read as we run to each his part; and I
will venture to affirm, that he who, as I have done, will undertake to
winnow this grain from its chaff, will find it not to require a moment's
consideration.
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