Christian Training Cannot Replace Conversion
By Methodist Recorder
Christian training, it matters not how thorough it may be, cannot be substituted for conversion. It is not an end, but means leading to an end. It matters not what instruction may be imparted to a child, it cannot change his moral nature, but it may be the means of leading him to Christ, whose Spirit and grace can renew and save his soul. It is the duty of every parent, and of every Christian, so far as they have opportunity, both by precept and example, to instruct and train the children in the way they should go, asking the divine blessing upon their labors; but unless this instruction leads to the renewing of their hearts by the divine Spirit, so far as their salvation is concerned, it will prove ineffectual. To trust in anything short of this is a delusion and a snare.