353 Miscellaneous. EMANUEL SWEDENBORG.-The articles under this title in the St. Pancras Guardian, to which we alluded in our last number, have been continued in several succeeding numbers of that paper. The several articles are written with marked ability, and are readily distinguishable from the hasty productions of illinformed writers. The writer speaks as an expositor and not as an advocate. His exposition shows a mastery not only of the facts, but also of the philosophy which underlies the facts, in the remarkable biography of our Author. We give the following appreciative and just interpretation of the Dream Book as a specimen of these excellent papers : On noted down their temptations, trials and "It was while he was engaged writing and publishing his Animal Kingdom that he was undergoing these strange experiences, and the reader is presented with the extraordinary instance of a man of a severely logical and mathematical training, calmly composing a ponderous scientific work, travelling to London to print it, correcting the proof sheets, and otherwise behaving like an ordinary great man, although at the same time he was jotting down in a note-book sundry dreams, visions, temptations and trials, which some critics-who certainly must belong to the 'run and read' style of judgment-have written down as evidences of delusions. Surely this is a libel against mathematical and scientific training, nor is it the mode in which delusions generally announce themselves. Let us turn for a brief moment to this 'dream-book.' Nothing was known of its existence until the death of one Professor Scheringsson, in 1849, when it was offered for sale by his heirs, purchased by Mr. Klemming, the librarian of the Stockholm Royal Library, and published in 1859. The character of some of the entries are of the most private nature, and the whole bears evidence of never having been intended for any but the writer's own eye. Such being the case, if criticised at all, common fairness would suggest that the "We are not prejudiced either for or criticism be lenient, or at least honest. against Swedenborg. It is the purpose Yet we find that some of Swedenborg's of this sketch to describe, not to discuss; detractors have fastened on this book to narrate, not to advocate his claims with a hunger that hardly bespeaks un- and opinions. Yet we feel bound to prejudiced judgment or dispassionate say here, that it needs far more credulity review. They forget that, if they had to believe this gifted man was under 66 mental aberration at this time, than to The older doctrine has been enforced believe the reverse. Paxton Hood, who with zeal and energy by the Rev. Mr. strongly scouts the idea of mental aberra- Thomson, from the chair of the Contion or imposture, truly observes that gregational Union; the newer phase of whatever Swedenborg might have been, thought has been presented with great he was never inconsistent, and it is when ability from the pulpit by the Rev. this dream-book is regarded as a whole Baldwin Brown, in the annual serthat we get to see Swedenborg's real po- mon of the London Missionary Society. sition. At this time he was evidently in In a leader on these discourses, the a transition state similar to that through editor of the Christian World says: which every Christian must pass who "In England, Mr. Thomson affirms, would gain the kingdom of heaven. One there never was such a break-down as cannot help feeling a reverent sympathy the new theology shows, as soon as you for this good man in these strong and attempt to bring it into action.' Prestrange struggles against his imperfec- mising that we do not admit the theotions. 'One touch of nature makes the logy which centres in, and emanates whole world kin.' A common experi- from, the Incarnation, to he one whit ence testifies that this life is, or should newer than the Gospel of Christ, we be, a pilgrim's progress, forty years' ask whether the fact is really as Mr. wanderings in a wilderness, and whether Thomson puts it. Is it true that the we get to heaven, as Swedenborg says Christian influence of Coleridge, perhe did, by intromission and the opening suading the most refined and cultured of spiritual sight, or have to wait the minds of several generations to listen to summons of death before we cross its the voice of God speaking in the many. threshold, the process is similar, the toned Æolian harp of Scripture, has been purification equally necessary, the states powerless? Is it true that the tens of of transition chequered and strange. thousands who have found the Christian The difference between Swedenborg's ministration of Robertson of Brighton and common experience is a difference sweet and bracing as a well of water of degree, and also of record. It seems opened in a cleft of the rock, drew from to us less a marvel that he should have it no spiritual healing? The theology suffered these experiences, than that he that is content with merely working should have kept a record of them, a upon the feelings of crowds, and takes record so exact and minute, so honestly fondly for granted that the verbal acand candidly prepared, that it seems ceptance, sincere doubtless at the momore like an account kept with con- ment, of some orthodox formula, is an science than anything else. Had he con- infallible guarantee of changed life and tinued in this state of trial and transition regenerated character, may seem to be it might have been possible to entertain more potent than the theology that ap the charge of madness flung against peals to man's whole nature, intellectual him, but the fact that he quickly passed as well as moral, and insists upon union through it and recovered all his original with a living Christ as well as upon mental vigour and acumen tells enor- faith in Christ's death; but it is the latmously in his favour-only a superficial ter in which intelligent working men judgment could contrariwise regard and thoughtful persons of all classes find a response to the deepest craving of their souls. Let it not be supposed that we THE OLD AND NEW THEOLOGY.- advocate a mere intellectual ChristiThe changes of theological opinion, anity. While the world lasts, the Chriswhich have been long taking place tian minister is bound to give that proof among the more eminent Christian of his ministry which Christ gave when teachers, are beginning to range them- the common people heard Him gladly.' selves around the centre of the Incarna- But it is strange that a sneer against the tion as distinguished from the Crucifixion theology of the Incarnation, as addressed of Christ, which has hitherto been re- to mere men of culture and intellect, garded as the centre of Christian theo- should be indulged in by those whose fogy. These two prominent features of whole dogmatic system, as elaborated in Christian thought have recently been the various creeds and confessions, is an prominently and most ably discussed in edifice reared by man's intellect upon the the public meetings of the metropolis. simple statements of Scripture. The it. " new theology, in so far as it is the true theology, is eminently simple. It does not perplex the ingenuous soul with theories of the Atonement which, having taken all possible shapes, are admitted by theologians themselves to be futile. It resolutely points to Christ, making His words the final law of Christianity. His disciples were often rebuked by Him when He was with them. The promised inspiration of His Spirit, whatever it implied, most certainly did not imply that, after His departure, they were to be rendered incapable of error, because we know that they disputed and differed and withstood each other to the face. If, therefore, there is difficulty or debate, the ultimate appeal is to Christ. If there appears to be variance between the words of Christ and those of His apostle, the principle of reconcilement is to be found in the sayings of Christ, not in those of mere men. The Bishop of Ely's notion that, after the resurrection, a 'radical alteration' took place in Christ's Gospel, is to be utterly rejected. But theologians of the Incarnation do not admit that there is irreconcilable variance between the Saviour and St. Paul. The grand doctrine of the apostle is that, in Christ, the wall of partition between Jew and Gentile was broken down, and the old covenant and the new covenant became one. This is not irreconcilable with the everlastingly true, simple, and immutable declaration of Christ, that our sins will be forgiven when we forgive our neighbours their trespasses. The doctrine of the Incarnation and of the Cross alike is a doctrine of repentance of change of heart and life-of renewal in Christ. And if theologians of the old school affirm that the death of Christ is, on its Godward side, an insoluble mystery, surely theologians of the new school cannot be far wrong in insisting upon its human lessons of self-sacrifice, and Divine sympathy, and infinite kindness." LONDON MISSIONARY AND TRACT SOCIETY. The fifty-fourth anniversary of the Missionary and Tract Society of the New Church was held on Wednesday evening, at the New Jerusalem Church, Argyle Square, King's Cross. The company first partook of tea in the schoolroom, after which a public meeting was held in the church, presided over by the Rev. John Presland. The proceedings opened with the singing of a hymn and prayer by the Rev. Dr. Bayley; after which the Chairman gave an interesting and instructive address upon the objects and working of the Society. Their work was most excellent, for it comprised the two most valuable ways of disseminating truth, namely, by oral and by written means. This work had been most effectively carried out during the past year, and as the result he could say that the success attained was greater than in any previous year. Mr. Jobson, the Secretary, read the Report of the Committee for the past year, which, after referring to the fact that it was four years since they as sembled in that church to celebrate the meeting of the Society, proceeded to speak of the work done by public lectures. Their fellow-worker, Mr. Gunton, had visited many places in the country during the year, and delivered lectures. Lectures had also been delivered by the Rev. Dr. Bayley, Mr. Dicks, Mr. Whitehead, Mr. Boyle, and others. During the year 70,000 four-page tracts had been printed, and 5,925 pamphlets bought or exchanged. 12,000 copies of different works had also been printed, among them being "Clowes' Illustrations, "Spiritual World," "Future Life," and "Brighton Lectures." The tract branch of the Society has been unusually active, the tracts issued being 55,552, consisting of leaflets and tracts, the number being greatly in excess of former years. A sum of £250, presented to them by a friend, had been expended in bringing out cheap editions of "Future Life,' the " Brighton Lectures," and the " Spiritual World," 2,000 of the latter to be offered to clergymen and ministers of all denominations, no less than 1,800 of whom had already made application. The Report of the Auxiliary New Church Missionary and Tract Society, read by the Secretary, Mr. Elliott, jun., showed that the operations of the Society had been much extended by means of corresponding members throughout the country, which had increased its uses. A great deal of work had been done in rectifying articles in books of reference, such as Encyclopædias, &c., in which were misstatements or misapprehensions respecting Swedenborg and his teachings. They had also successfully communicated with authors of other works on the subject. Mr. Austin, in an eloquent speech, traced the rise and progress of a New Church Society, and gave some practical advice to those in connection with the one whose anniversary they were now celebrating. A resolution approving of the gratuitous distribution of works to the clergy and ministers of religion was passed, and also the following: "That the existing widespread interest in spiritual things amongst all classes of the community affording an opportunity for presenting to the world the inestimable principles of the New Church, this meeting urges upon all members of the Church earnestly to use the occasion thus offered, by a liberal and active support of the Missionary and Tract Society.' ACCRINGTON.-On May 31st the annual sermons on behalf of the Sunday. schools were preached afternoon and evening to full congregations, by the Rev. C. H. Wilkins, of Nottingham. This was the first visit of this gentleman to the Accrington Society, and his services were very much appreciated. In the morning a service of song was held -subject, "The Creed of the New Church." The scholars, numbering over 500, were ranged in the galleries, the body of the church being filled by the congregation. The Creed was intoned by the scholars, accompanied with organ modulations, and interspersed with appropriate hymns and readings from the Word. In the absence, through severe indisposition, of the minister (the Rev. J. J. Thornton), Mr. E. J. Broadfield, of Manchester, kindly agreed to officiate as reader. At the close of the service, which was listened to with rapt attention and elicited unqualified approbation, Mr. Wilkins gave a very suitable address to parents, teachers, and scholars. The collection of the day amounted to over £136. being Whitsuntide, the week-night lec tures were but moderately attended, but the Sunday night service was a success, the Temperance Hall being comfortably filled. A servant of the Lord's restored Apostles" caused a little interruption at the morning service, but was soon put down, the meeting being strongly against him. BIRMINGHAM.-On Wednesday, the 16th June last, the foundation stone of the New Church in Wretham Road, Soho Hill, Birmingham, was laid. After a week of very stormy and wet weather, the skies suddenly cleared up, and beneath a glorious blue canopy, and in a pleasant, warm air, a large assembly of friends met together. Noticeable amongst them were many beautiful children with bouquets of flowers. A form of service had been printed, and was distributed for use upon the ground. At half-past three, the hymn," "O Lord of Hosts, whose glory fills," was sung, after which prayer was offered by Mr. Rodgers. Mr. John Bragg, Secretary to the Building Committee, said he had been requested to make a brief statement as to the early history of this religious society, and also to give some particulars respecting the church. The first assem bly for public worship of any Birming ham congregation of the New Church was held in a room in Great Charles Street about a hundred years ago. From there they moved to a larger room in Temple Row. Arrangements were then made for the erection of the commodious chapel, and two large dwellinghouses adjoining, in Newhall Street, which chapel is now occupied by the Rev. W. O'Neill's congregation. This edifice was the first ever erected in the world for New Church worship. There the Rev. J. Proud officiated as minister with great success. The Church and King" rioters of 1791, who demolished the Old and New Meetings and other edifices belonging to Dissenters, proceeded at an early period of the riots to the building, and threatened to burn it; but by the judicious conduct of Mr. Proud, who lived in the adjoining house, its destruction was averted. He ad dressed the crowd, and, it is said, gave them all the money he had about him, and they went away to burn and plun der elsewhere. An attempt was how 66 ever made to burn the place in March, two years afterwards. The fire was happily discovered early, but little damage was done, and the Rev. J. Proud issued an address, in the name and on behalf of the society, to the people of Birming. ham on the subject. After a few years' occupancy, a financial crisis involved its builder and principal supporters in ruin, and the building was sold. Without much delay, however, there was erected for them the place of worship in Newhall Street, immediately opposite the Newhall Wharf, and which place was occupied by them under the ministra tions of the Rev. E. Madeley until 1830, when they removed to their present church in Summer Lane, where, besides a more commodious place of worship, they provided large rooms for day and and Sunday schools, as well as a house for their minister. But the changes which so surely, though slowly, come over societies and localities, having at length made it desirable to remove from there, the congregation purchased the freehold land on which they were then assembled, and determined to erect there not only a new place of worship more in harmony with the wishes of the congregation, but also well-arranged classrooms for Sunday school instruction, adapted to the special wants of the present day. The schools are of plain brick, with pointed arches, abundantly The lecturelighted on both sides. room has open timbered roof, with ornamental iron tie rods, the timber stained and varnished. There is likewise a comfortable house for the church-keeper, with The every accommodation suitable. Church with which they were more intimately concerned to-day is designed in the decorated Gothic style. Externally, the front, together with the tower, is of Hamstead stone, with Bath stone dressings. The spire is of Bath stone; the other parts of the church are brick-work, with Bath stone facings. Next to Wretham Road is a large entrance vestibule, also entrance from tower, and an ante-room adjoining the vestibule. The height of the spire and tower is 116 feet. Thomas Naden, Esq., the architect, then presented to Mrs. Wilkinson a handsome silver trowel, suitably inscribed, with which to lay the stone. This ceremony having been duly performed, Mrs. Wilkinson said, "I declare this stone to be well and truly laid, in the Name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who is the Head of the Mr. R. R. Rodgers, minister, then delivered an able address, in the course of which he said: The ceremony just concluded with the words, "To the honour and glory of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Head of the Church," offers a fit opportunity for stating very briefly the nature of our religion, and explaining our position in relation to the Church Universal. The name by which we wish to be known is "The New Church." But in this claim there is nothing wild or visionary. We claim to have feelings and ideas as natural and as consistent as our fellowcitizens. 2 We believe in the fullest and most thorough education of the people, from the richest to the poorest, as our past educational institutions, which rank among the very earliest in the town, We are thoroughly abundantly prove. English in our sentiments and feelings, and love of freedom, and we desire to be We are not a ranked among the true lovers of our country and mankind. New Church from a difference in Church polity, but from the newness of our docWe are not separated trinal tenets. from the rest of the religious world because in life we are antagonistic to them, but because there is no doctrinal platform in any sect whereon we can have freedom of opinion. This edifice-the foundation stone of which is now laidis being built for the public worship of the Lord Jesus Christ. Our creed is, by comparison, an exceedingly short one. The first Article is, "That God is one, in whom there is a Divine Trinity, and that He is the Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ." The second is, "That a saving faith is to believe on Him." The third, "That evil actions ought not to be done, because they are of the devil and from the devil." The fourth, "That good actions ought to be done, because they are of God and from God." And the fifth and last article of belief is, "That good actions ought to be done by man as of himself, nevertheless under the belief that they are from the Lord operating with him and by him." These articles constitute what may be called the faith of the New Church. We have what we call four leading doctrines-1, "The doctrine of the Lord;" 2, "The doctrine of the Sacred Scriptures,' which Scriptures we hold to be the revealed wisdom of God, to be plenarily A |