g to the creed of their fathers and refusing
to accept any truth in advance of what they saw, the children of the
reformers depart widely from their example of humility, self-denial, and
renunciation of the world. Thus "the first simplicity disappears." A
worldly flood, flowing into the church, "carries with it its customs,
practices, and idols."

Alas, to what a fearful extent is that friendship of the world which is
"enmity with God," now cherished among the professed followers of Christ!
How widely have the popular churches throughout Christendom departed from
the Bible standard of humility, self-denial, simplicity, and godliness!
Said John Wesley, in speaking of the right use of money: "Do not waste any
part of so precious a talent, merely in gratifying the desire of the eye,
by superfluous or expensive apparel, or by needless ornaments. Waste no
part of it in curiously adorning your houses; in superfluous or expensive
furniture; in costly pictures, painting, gilding.... Lay out nothing to
gratify the pride of life, to gain the admiration or praise of men.... 'So
long as thou doest well unto thyself, men will speak good of thee.' So
long as thou art 'clothed in purple and fine linen, and farest sumptuously
every day,' no doubt many will applaud thy elegance of taste, thy
generosity and hospitality. But do not buy their applause so dear. Rather
be content with the honor that cometh from God."(638) But in many churches
of our time, such teaching is disregarded.

A profession of religion has become popular with the world. Rulers,
politicians, lawyers, doctors, merchants, join the church as a means of
securing the respect and confidence of society, and advancing their own
worldly interests. Thus they seek to cover all their unrighteous
transactions under a profession of Christianity. The various religious
bodies, re-enforced by the wealth and influence of these baptized
worldlings, make a still higher bid for popularity and patronage. Splendid
churches, embellished in the most extravagant manner, are erected on
popular avenues. The worshipers array themselves in costly and fashionable
attire. A high salary is paid for a talented minister to entertain and
attract the people. His sermons must not touch popular sins, but be made
smooth and pleasing for fashionable ears. Thus fashionable sinners are
enrolled on the church-records, and fashionable sins are concealed under a
pretense of godliness.

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