[February 11th, 1855.]
I. The object of self-examination and self-knowledge. It is to determine, 1. In general, what we are; whether or not we are the children of God. 2. Whether we are making progress in the divine life or not; whether our general deportment is consistent. 3. Whether in any given case we have acted agreeably to the gospel.
II. Self-examination requires, 1. A right standard of judgment. This is the word of God. (a.) It is not the experience or conduct of others, which in reference to our state or conduct is so often made the rule. (b.) It is not public opinion, or the standard of the class to which we belong. Merchants, lawyers, ministers, professors of religion in different churches, commonly adopt this standard. The only standard by which we should judge ourselves is that by which God will judge us in the last day. It is, therefore, of the first importance that we be well acquainted with the Scriptures as a rule of character and of conduct, to determine what we are, and what in any given case is right.
-
Self-examination requires an impartial, faithful and attentive judge. No matter how accurate the rule, if we are partial, unfaithful, and indifferent in applying it, we shall err.
-
It requires time. There must be a day of judgment. There are set times which are especially appropriate; for example, the close of the day, sacramental occasions, any period of emergency. The great evil is, that the work is neglected because of the want of a set time for it.
III. The difficulties of the work.
-
It is irksome, as an act of introspection. It is hard to determine the character of our feelings. The heart is deep, it is unsteady, it is deceitful.
-
It is not only irksome, but we are liable to many perverting influences, (a.) From self-love. (b.) From public sentiment. (c.) From the opinions of others regarding us.
-
Another difficulty arises from slothfulness, which leads to the slight performance of other religious duties.
IV. The advantages and obligations of self-examination.
-
It is a commanded work.
-
It is an indispensable work. It must and will be performed. We cannot fail to pass judgment on ourselves. The only question is, whether this judgment shall be hasty, biased and erroneous, or deliberate, formal, on a right standard and worthy of reliance.
-
It is necessary as a preservative against false hopes.
-
It is necessary to give us rational and Scriptural grounds of rejoicing in hope of the glory of God.
-
As a means of correcting our errors and avoiding sin.
← 172. Self-examination. (No. 1) · Contents · 174. Gravity →