James Begg: The decline in vital religion and the increase in carnality in worship

[Reformed Covenanter]

When vital religion is low, men attempt to make up for the want of spiritual life by external and carnal appliances, whilst ministers destitute of moral courage are ready to humour the wishes of the people, instead of standing up boldly for the authority of God.

James Begg, Anarchy in Worship or Recent Innovations Contrasted with the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church and the Vows of Her Office-Bearers (Edinburgh: Lyon & Gemmell, 1875), p. 16.

 

[NaphtaliPress]

This is how the pretended holy days and marching band came into presbyterian worship. It was not on high minded principles. 'Oh,' 'if we don't have an organ, the young folk well go to the episcopal church down the street.' But never mind the unprincipled origins, folks are fine with it now.

When vital religion is low, men attempt to make up for the want of spiritual life by external and carnal appliances, whilst ministers destitute of moral courage are ready to humour the wishes of the people, instead of standing up boldly for the authority of God.

James Begg, Anarchy in Worship or Recent Innovations Contrasted with the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church and the Vows of Her Office-Bearers (Edinburgh: Lyon & Gemmell, 1875), p. 16.