Godliness not Compulsory by W. A. S.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 14, 1907

Godliness not Compulsory

By W. A. S.

THE Millennial Dawn idea of the manner in which the wicked are to be dealt with in that fabled “second probation” is based on a strangely perverted view of what godliness and salvation are.

The wicked are to come forth in the resurrection, we are told, with “the same wicked desires,” yet they are not permitted to do wrong. “The only liberty that will be granted,” is “the liberty to do good.”

This theory proceeds upon the supposition that goodness, or godliness, can be forced upon men; that evil can be made to bring forth good.

This is a denial of Christ’s teaching regarding the nature of goodness: “Every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree can not bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.” Matt. 7: 17, 18.

It is not merely because he has chosen some other way of salvation that the Lord does not compel men unto godliness. It is because he can not do it; for “he can not deny himself.” 2 Tim. 2: 13. Godliness is God-likeness. The Lord is not good and righteous because he is compelled to be. It is his nature. And no righteousness or godliness can ever come of compulsion. It can never be forced from an evil nature. Salvation is a change of nature. The theory of mechanical and compulsory righteousness subverts the fundamental principle of the gospel.

W. A. S.