Page:The Swedenborg Library Vol 3.djvu/154

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THE SWEDENBORG LIBRARY.

Hence it is evident, that as the Lord wills the salvation of all, He has also provided that every one who lives well may have some place in heaven. (D. P. 254.)


GOD'S MERCY IS INFINITE.

In many instances those who are principled in some particular doctrine, even though it be heretical, think none can be saved who are out of their own pale, or who do not believe precisely as they do. The reverse, however, is the fact. For the Lord has mercy towards the whole human race, and is desirous to save all universally, and to draw them to himself. His mercy is infinite, and does not suffer itself to be confined to the small number within the church, but is extended to all throughout the world. For they who are born out of the church, and are thereby in ignorance respecting matters of faith, are not blamable on that account; nor are they ever condemned for not having faith towards the Lord, for they are not aware of his existence.

What considerate person can suppose the greatest part of mankind must perish eternally because they were not bom in that quarter of the globe denominated Europe, which respectively contains so few? Or that the Lord would permit so great a multitude of human beings to be brought into existence, to perish in eternal death ? This would be alike contrary to the divine nature and to mercy.

Besides, some of those who are out of the church, and

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