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The Spirit of Prophecy Volume 3
the plain and conclusive evidences of divine truth hardens the heart,
and blinds the understanding. The precious light, being neglected,
fades utterly from the mind that is unwilling to receive it.
Jesus, in his treatment of Thomas, gave his followers a lesson
regarding the manner in which they should treat those who have doubts
upon religious truth, and who make those doubts prominent. He did
not overwhelm Thomas with words of reproach, nor did he enter
into a controversy with him; but, with marked condescension and
tenderness, he revealed himself unto the doubting one. Thomas had
taken a most unreasonable position, in dictating the only conditions
of his faith; but Jesus, by his generous love and consideration, broke
down all the barriers he had raised. Persistent controversy will seldom
weaken unbelief, but rather it upon self-defense, where it will find
new support and excuse. Jesus, revealed in his love and mercy as
the crucified Saviour, will wring from many once unwilling lips the
acknowledgment of Thomas, “My Lord, and my God.”
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