THE VALUE OF POSITIVE OPINIONS by The Evangelist (Presbyterian)

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Nov 25, 1889

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 15, No. 45.

THE VALUE OF POSITIVE OPINIONS.

By The Evangelist (Presbyterian)

It was Sydney Smith (who was a keen observer of human affairs), we believe, who said that a great deal of talent is lost to the world from a want of courage. A man who has the courage of his convictions, and is not afraid to avow them, is always a useful man so long as he stands inside the lines of sound morals and of legitimate human rights. Indeed, when he gets somewhat outside those lines, he may still be useful by provoking thought and discussion that will drive him inside if he is an honest man, and that will at any rate prevent others from standing in a false position. The truth often suffers from stagnation, and needs to be stirred up; it suffers less by discussion than from being let alone. Rubbing it makes it brighter, just as it does with gold and silver and precious stones. Positive opinions beget opposition, of course; but the world and the church need them all the same. Those who are afraid to express them in behalf of truth, can take the awful responsibility of silence; but truth will march forward without them. But where will they be when they see it marching on? —The Evangelist (Presbyterian).