In all common ordinary cases, we see intuitively at first view what is out duty, what is the honest part. This is the ground of the observation, that the first thought is often the best. In these cases, doubt and deliberation is itself dishonesty; as it was in Balaam upon the second message.

Virtue, as such, naturally procures considerable advantages to the virtuous.

The Epistles in the New Testament have all of them a particular reference to the condition and usages of the Christian world at the time they were written.

It is not at all incredible, that a book which has been so long in the possession of mankind should contain many truths as yet undiscovered.

Virtue is not to be considered in the light of mere innocence, or abstaining from harm; but as the exertion of our faculties in doing good.

Compassion is a call, a demand of nature, to relieve the unhappy as hunger is a natural call for food

Every one of our passions and affections hath its natural stint and bound, which may easily be exceeded; whereas our enjoyments can possibly be but in a determinate measure and degree.