Probation After Death by Editor

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Jan 20, 1887

Probation After Death

By Editor

In the trial of Professor Smythe, of Andover, for heresy, Professor Baldwin, of Yale College, one of the counsel for the defense, is reported by the Independent as follows:—

"The doctrine of probation after death, Professor Baldwin maintained, has already done much, and was destined to do more, to overcome agnosticism, the most hurtful error which prevails at the present day among men."

An "agnostic" is one who does not believe anything, and doesn't profess to know anything, although he really thinks that he knows more than all the world beside. Professor Baldwin says that the doctrine of probation after death has converted men from agnosticism. That is, they believe it, and therefore they can no longer be called agnostics. How convenient it is to be able to invent doctrines that will take infidelity away from men whether they will or not. Thus, the doctrine of probation after death tells the sinner that if he doesn't repent in this life, he will be all right, because another "chance" will be given him after death. This, being in accordance with his desires, is of course readily accepted. In this way the "larger hope" converts men. We submit that it is better to be an agnostic than to believe a lie; for the man who believes a lie rests satisfied with his condition and cannot be moved.