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THE SWEDENBORG LIBRARY.

he become spiritual. All who are in heaven see truths with the understanding, and thus receive them; but what they do not see with the understanding, they do not receive. And if any one says to them that they must have faith, although they neither see nor understand, they turn away, saying, How can this be? What I see or understand that I believe; but what I do not see nor understand, that I cannot believe; possibly it may be a false principle which may destroy the spiritual life. (A. E. 239.)

To those who have not perception respecting truth there is given that which appears like truth, and this according to their rational principle, that is, according to their apprehension; for thus it is received. It is permitted every one to believe truths as he apprehends them. Unless this were the case, there would be no reception because there would be no acknowledgment. (A. C. 3385.)


THE SOUL'S EYES SHOULD BE USED.

Shut people's eyes and stop their ears, that is, cause them not to think from any understanding, and then tell those who are impressed with some idea of life eternal whatever you will, and they will believe it. Yea, though you should tell them that God can be angry and breathe vengeance; that He can inflict eternal damnation upon any one; that He requires to be moved to compassion by his Son's blood; that He will