University of Virginia Library

1074.

[Doctrines, experiences to try]

To the law and to the testimony. —viii. 20.

Doctrines, experiences to try,
We to the sacred standard fly,
Assured the Spirit of our Lord
Can never contradict His word:
Whate'er His Spirit speaks in me,
Must with the written word agree;
If not—I cast it all aside,
As Satan's voice, or nature's pride.
The test of truth and righteousness,
O God, Thy records we confess,
And who Thine oracles gainsay
Have miss'd the right celestial way:
Their pardon sure they vainly boast,
In nature sunk, in darkness lost;
Or if they of perfection dream,
The light of grace is not in them.