Far otherwise: it is a question which lies at the very foundations of the faith, and which vitally affects the message which we have to deliver to the souls of men. If the sufferings of Christ were not vicarious, then do we who so represent them sadly misrepresent the character of God, and grievously misdirect the conscience of the sinner; and, on the other hand, if this expiatory character and efficacy is truly claimed for them, then do they who deny it, and "teach men so," alter the whole scope and spirit of the gospel, and deprive the soul of man of that only restingplace which the mercy of a Saviour-God has provided for him.

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