Abstract

"Tact" in Theology

If philosopher Blaise Pascal were alive, he would find material for a new series of "Provincial Letters" in the phases of the latest theological controversies. Conveniently ambiguous words, like his pouvoir prochain, made at one time the test of orthodoxy, at another a cover for heretical opinions, would meet him at every turn. If Professor Briggs had only had "tact," so has groaned more than one of his friends, if he had not been so blunt and pugnacious, he might have held his horrifying doctrines and fifty others worse, and no one would have troubled him. The truth is, this praise of "tact" in theology is a part of the spirit of luxury, which has invaded the Church just as it has the rest of society. The churches have had their eyes fixed on outward prosperity. They have had vast sums to dispose of in pushing their denominational propaganda.