Lest thou learn his ways
And be as wrathful and furious, as quarrelsome and contentious,
as he is. Evil works and ways are soon learned; men are more
ready to imitate what is evil than what is good: Joseph learned
to swear in Pharaoh's court; and the Israelites learned the works
of the Heathen, among whom they were mingled; "evil
communications corrupt good manners", ( 1
Corinthians 15:33 ) . Many men, naturally mild and gentle,
tenderhearted and compassionate, by being brought up among or
conversing with bloodthirsty Papists, and imbibing their cruel
notions and sentiments, have become fierce, and as furious
persecutors of others; and get a snare to thy
soul;
be drawn into sin, by speaking passionate words, or doing rash
actions, which will bring on punishment, either in this world, or
in that to come, or in both; which may affect the soul or life
here; the taking of it away, or the eternal damnation of the soul
hereafter.