Page:The Swedenborg Library Vol 3.djvu/89

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IN TRUTH AS TO LIFE.
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So again, if any one asserts that good works ought to be done with a view to recompense in heaven, according to the literal sense of the Word in Matthew (x. 41, 42; xxv. 34 to 46, and other places), and yet in doing good works never thinks of merit, he in like manner is in the Lord's kingdom, because as to life he is in the truth; and because he is such as to life, he suffers himself easily to be instructed that no one can merit heaven, and that works wherein merit is placed, are not good.

And so in other cases ; for the literal sense of the Word is such, that in many passages it appears opposite to itself; but the reason is, that in that sense there are appearances of truth accommodated to those who are in external principles, consequently who are also immersed in worldly and corporeal loves.

In the present case [Gen. xxvi. 28], therefore, by Abimelech those are treated of who are principled in the doctrines of faith; and these are such as make faith the essential of salvation. The agreement also of their doctrines with the internal sense of the Word is treated of, and that conjunction is effected therewith is manifest; but only with those who are principled in good, that is, with those who, notwithstanding they make faith essential as to doctrine, still make charity essential as to life; for when with such there is confidence or trust in the Lord, which they call real faith, then they are in the affection of love to Him; consequently as to life they are in good. (A. C. 3451.)

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