The effects of the old separation were injurious to men's minds.

Religion was with many associated with puritanism, with cant, and unfitness for the world.

The difference is marked also in the style of sermons prevalent at the two periods.

There were sermons of two descriptions--viz., sermons by "_moderate_" clergy, of a purely moral or practical character; and sermons purely doctrinal, from those who were known as "evangelical" ministers.

Hence arose an impression, and not unnaturally, on many minds, that an almost exclusive reference to doctrinal subjects, and a dread of upholding the law, and of enforcing its more minute details, were not favourable to the cause of moral rectitude and practical holiness of life.