Church government and doctrine are topics of primary importance to the prosperity of the kingdom of the Redeemer, and no reason can be assigned why they cannot be debated to the edification of the church, except the human frailty of disputants.

Had these subjects been discussed in our religious papers with calmness, and in a Christian spirit, they would have been alike instructive and edifying both to ministers and laity.

The discussion would have infused into laymen a deeper interest for the welfare of the church, and a larger liberality in the support of her institutions.

Are we not commanded to prove all things, and hold fast that which is good; and to be always ready to give to him that asked us a reason for the hope that is in us?
But let us not despond; God will overrule even these controversies to the good of his church.

_Forsan et haec olim meminisse juvabit._ "The Synods adopting this Platform are expected to make it a principle _not to receive into their membership any one who will not subscribe this Definite Platform_," (meaning the whole pamphlet,) p.6.On this subject the Platform was entirely misapprehended, by the readers not reflecting that the third resolution, on p.