The time has been, it seem’d a precept plain + 

Of the true faith, Christ’s tokens to display; + 

And in life’s commerce still the thought retain, + 

That men have souls, and wait a judgment-day; + 

Kings used their gifts as ministers of heaven, + 

Nor stripp’d their zeal for God, of means which God had given. + 

’Tis alter’d now;⁠—for Adam’s eldest born + 

Has train’d our practice in a selfish rule, + 

Each stands alone, Christ’s bonds asunder torn; + 

Each has his private thought, selects his school, + 

Conceals his creed, and lives in closest tie + 

Of fellowship with those who count it blasphemy. + 

Brothers! spare reasoning;⁠—men have settled long + 

That ye are out of date, and they are wise; + 

Use their own weapons; let your words be strong, + 

Your cry be loud, till each scared boaster flies; + 

Thus the Apostles tamed the pagan breast, + 

They argued not, but preach’d; and conscience did the rest. + 