Creed Tests

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · May 27, 1889

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 15, No. 20.

In a recent article entitled, "Creed Tests," written concerning the trial of the Bishop of Lincoln for ritualistic practices not authorized by the Book of Common Prayer, Archdeacon Farrar well says:—

"Men say that they multiply ritual observances in order to glorify the sacrament. Is the sacrament glorified by postures and vestments, or by meek, pure, and humble hearts? Over half of Europe men do not only glorify, but worship the sacramental elements; they genuflect to them and pageant them about like an idol. Are these countries better for this blank idolatry? One of the vilest kings of France, Louis XV., went on his knees in the mud before the host, and was cheered as a religious king; yet he did so coming from the Caprea of his loathly palace, returning to the sty of his habitual vices. Nations are saved by righteousness, manliness, and self-denial; by preaching a simple Christ to simple men; not by miters and candles and such gewgaws."