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CHAP. VII. Of Taking Texts, &c. (Book 7)
COncerning the Question of taking Texts, it's marvellous to Me, that it should become a Question, seeing there is no ap∣pearance of Reason to doubt either its Lawful∣ness or Expediency.
As little as there is; and though at our first Conference this was but an Occasional Transition; yet T. E. thinks it of such mo∣ment, as to make it the main Subject (you see) of a whole Chapter. And indeed if the question be stated, we shall find very little work upon this Subject.
To take a Text then, and to compose a Sermon thereon, is to pitch upon some por∣tion of Scripture, to expound the same, and from thence to raise such observations, and remarks, as (in the Preacher's judgment) tend most to the instruction and edification of the people.
So that the Question will be this; Whether thus to pitch upon a portion of Scripture, to explain and to recommend the knowledge and practice thereof to the people, be displea∣sing to the Majesty of Heaven? If it be, Then are the Quakers in the right, and we truly are faulty: But if it be not (there being the Breach of no Law to make it a sin;) Then you and