Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. Those who have no vital union with God are swayed one way and another; they put men's opinions in the front, and God's word in the background. They grasp human assertions, that judgment against sin is contrary to God's benevolent character, and, while dwelling upon infinite benevolence, try to forget that there is such a thing as infinite justice.

Åndelige ting forstås åndeligt. Uden en levende forbindelse med Gud svinger mennesket til den ene eller til den anden side. Menneskelige meninger vejer mest, så Guds ord kommer i baggrunden. De bygger på menneskelige formodninger om, at en dom over synden ville stride mod Guds godhed. Ved at dvæle ved denne uendelige godhed forsøger de at glemme, at der også er en uendelig retfærdighed.