Select Works of Thomas Chalmers, D.D. LL. D, Vol. 11 (Classic Reprint)

Excerpt from Select Works of Thomas Chalmers, D.D. LL. D, Vol. 11
Our vindication of a Religious Establishment consists of two branches - the one having respect to the principle, the other to the effect of such an economy. Under the first, we would demonstrate the lawfulness of it - under the second, the usefulness of it. It is a scheme which originates with the civil, and not with the ecclesiastical power. It is overtured by the former; it is consented to by the latter - and it seems indispensable to prove at the very outset of the argument, that by the connexion thus entered upon, the character of the gospel in its simplicity or its sacredness need suffer no violation. Without this we cannot clear our way to the latter part of the argument - for though we should succeed in proving of an Establishment, that it gives tenfold scope to the ministrations of the gospel; yet if it be in a way by which the gospel itself suffers essential desecration, this were doing evil that good may come. Till the cause be disencumbered of this charge, it can proceed no further - after which, however, we hold that it stands upon firm and high vantage-ground. When principle does not stand in the way of expediency, then expediency of itself becomes principle; and, in the matter before us, principle of the highest sort. It is surely a question of no light character, What is the most effectual method of making Christianity so to bear upon a population, as that it shall reach every door and be brought into contact with all the families? Could it first be demonstrated of such a method that it is innocent, as being not unlawful in principle - then if further demonstrated that it is expedient, as being most useful in effect, it would no longer remain in the midway or neutral character of innocence alone.
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