Article January 21, 1911 Issue

FROM OUR EXCHANGES

with contributions from George Cross, Minot Simons

[Prof. George Cross, D.D., in Watchman.]

The astounding developments of modern science are sure to introduce, if they have not done so already, far-reaching changes in our theological view-point. Think for a moment how widely accepted are the ideas of the inner unity of man's whole nature, the unity of all existence, the competency of the human mind to arrive at valid judgments on all things. There is no part of our religious beliefs that is unaffected by these axioms of science. There is no part of our thinking that has not been invaded by them. It is not for me to say how far these ideas are valid, but their influence is unquestionable.

Please observe that I am not speaking of the worth of the conclusions people are drawing. The next generation will revise and correct many of the common notions of the present. Indeed it is to be expected that all our favorite theories will be superseded some day, and better ones take their place. I am not prepared to believe all the widely accepted current theories. I am not speaking of them. I am speaking of the method reflection reflection, the mental attitude they represent. Present methods may also be changed, but the important thing to remember is that the future will grow out of the present; and perhaps it is more important still to remember that the methods of dealing with problems in the universities and colleges are inculcated steadily in the minds of the children from the time that they enter the primary schools, and right on through their career. These methods are thoroughly ingrained in the minds of the rising generation. When the educated young people of our day approach a religious problem, it is simply impossible for them to reverse the whole course of their thinking. They will approach these questions from the point of view from which they have been trained to approach other questions.

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