are particularly bitter in denouncing that idea. If such sentiments were
uttered only by open and professed scoffers, it would not do so much harm;
but it is not unusual to find those bearing the title of "Reverend"
descanting on these themes in a manner to show themselves antichrist,
according to the definition of that term by John. And even this need not
surprise us; for the sure word of prophecy has foretold that some who have
once held the true faith will depart therefrom to give heed to seducing
spirits, and doctrines of devils. 1 Tim. 4:1.

One R. P. Wilson, to whose name is attached the ministerial title, in his
lectures on "Spiritual Science," said:--

"Although as a believer in true spiritual philosophy, we cannot
receive the orthodox views of salvation, yet we recognize the
birth of a Saviour and Redeemer into the universal hearts of
humanity, _wherein truly the deity is incarnate_, dwelling in the
interior of man's spirit. We believe that each soul of man is born
with his or her Saviour within them; for as man is an embodiment
of the universe in epitome, he contains in his central nature an
incarnation of deity. The germ of immortal unfoldings resides
within the spirit of it, which needs only appropriate conditions
to call forth the expanding and elevating powers of the soul."

In "Spiritual Science Demonstrated," p. 229, Dr. Hare said:--

"Since my spirit sister's translation to the spheres, she has
risen from the fifth to the sixth sphere. It has been alleged by
her that her ascent was retarded by her belief in the atonement."

A "spirit" calling himself Deacon John Norton, as reported in the _Banner
of Light_, said:--

"I used to believe in the atonement; I honestly believed that
Christ died to save the world, and that by and through his death
all must be saved if saved at all. Now I see that this is folly--it
cannot be so. The light through Christ, the Holy One, shone in
darkness; the darkness could not comprehend it; and thus it
crucified the body, and Christ died a martyr. He was not called in
that way, that by the shedding of his blood, the vast multitude
coming after him should find salvation. Everything in nature
proves this false. They tell me here that Christ was the most
perfect man of his time. I am told here also that he is worthy to
be worshiped, because of his goodness; and where man