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THE SWEDENBORG LIBRARY

even the infernals themselves may be possessed of such knowledge, and in some cases in a degree superior to others. But what avails is, a life according to knowledges, this being what all knowledges have for their end. Unless they are learned with a view to life, they are of no use beyond that of serving as subjects of discourse, and of acquiring in the world the reputation of learning, of attaining honors, and of gaining fame and wealth.

Hence it is evident that the life of the knowledges of faith is no other than the life of charity; for the law and the prophets, that is, the whole doctrine of faith, with all its knowledges, consists in love to the Lord and love towards the neighbor; as may be plain to every one from the Lord's words (Matt. xxii. 34-39; Mark xii. 28-35).

Nevertheless, doctrinals, or the knowledge of faith, are very necessary for the formation of the life of charity; and it cannot possibly be formed without them. This life of charity is what saves after death, and not any life of faith without charity; for without charity it is not possible for any life of faith to exist.

They who are principled in the life of love and charity, are in the Lord's life; and none can be conjoined to Him by any other. Hence also it is manifest, that the truths of faith cannot be acknowledged as truths, that is, the acknowledgment of them so much talked of, cannot exist except outwardly and in words only, unless they are implanted in charity. Otherwise, inwardly

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