. . . therefore a deed or work in itself considered, is nothing but an effect which derives its soul and life from the will and thought, insomuch that it is will and thought in an external form. Hence it follows that the deed is such as are the will and thought which produce the deed." (H. H. 472.)
XIX.—Believing in God.
Nothing reveals the searching and eminently practical character of the New Church doctrines more clearly, or shows more distinctly the wide difference between this Church and those which have preceded it, than the strength and frequency with which its teachings emphasize the importance of keeping the commandments, or living the divine precepts. There are doubtless multitudes in all the churches of to-day, who do not even believe in God, according to the New Church standard of belief. For this Church teaches that only those really believe in Him, who reverently obey his precepts. The following brief extracts from Swedenborg are given in confirmation of this:
