This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated.1824 Excerpt: ... arm Sect. m. The evidences of design apparent in the works of God. If, in theorising upon the character of a man, we found, upon more intimate acquaintance, that his conduct was completely at variance with our preconceived notions, we would be obliged to renounce them as totally groundless and visionary. But if, upon a closer inspection, we ascertained that the opinion which we had formed from occasional hints and casual information, was fully borne out by his life, we would be entitled to affirm that it was founded in truth, and afforded a correct explanation of the principles on which he acted. From what reason teaches us of the natural attributes of God, we have affirmed that his government is conducted upon a plan; and that, whether they are decreed or not, every exercise of his power, and every communication of his goodness, is the effect of his own deliberate and determinate will. We are now to submit the issue of this matter to the decision of facts. What is the answer which they return? Tell me first what you would regard as proofs of a plan? Most undoubtedly you would consider as the evidences of a plan the manifest and uniform indications of design; the interference of the author from time to time to regulate and adjust the movements of the machinery which he had at first put in motion; the intimation beforehand of what we afterwards see produced; and his own express declaration that what he does, he does on purpose, and for the accomplishment of a preconcerted scheme. Would you deem these facts sufficient to evince the existence of a plan? And if they are not sufficient to establish such an object, pray what is there within the range of demonstration which you would pronounce to be sufficient proof? We have all this evidence, however, and more, t...