Other related topics at:
Religion and Morality
1,101. God's Mercy
"That God will forgive may, indeed, be established as the first
and fundamental truth of religion; for though the knowledge of
his existence is the origin of philosophy, yet, without the
belief of his mercy, it would have little influence upon our
moral conduct. There could be no prospect of enjoying the
protection or regard of him whom the least deviation from
rectitude made inexorable for ever; and every man would
naturally withdraw his thoughts from the contemplation of a
creator, whom he must consider as a governor too pure to be
pleased, and too severe to be pacified; as an enemy infinitely
wise and infinitely powerful, whom he could neither deceive,
escape, nor resist."
Johnson: Rambler #110 (April 6, 1751)
Link
