Note 100 — Chapter V · PROBATION, AS INTENDED FOR MORAL DISCIPLINE AND IMPROVEMENT.

[Chalmers objects to this hypothetical fall of man, that it wants harmony with the Scripture account. But I do not see the force of the objection. Butler of course does not copy the Scripture account, for he would then depart from the aim and nature of his book. The Bible says man fell suddenly, no less in his state than in his character. Butler says that we could not reason out how much disorder and damage would ensue from the first sin: and in saying this, avoids any incongruity with the Mosaic account, which tells us how much. What B. says of the formation of habit, by repeated transgressions, certainly cannot be gainsayed.Adam “died,” the very day he ate the forbidden fruit. The sinner “lives” the very day he believes on the only-begotten Son of God. Increase of guilt, or growth in grace are predicable in both instances. In both also there is an instant transition into a new relationship with God.]