The first excerpt represents the element of Air. It speaks of mental influences and the process of thought, and is drawn from Commentary on the Epistle to the Galatians by Martin Luther: to Jerusalem, at the request of the apostles. I went to Jerusalem at the
request of God. What is more, I won the indorsement of the apostles. My
opponents lost out."
The matter upon which the apostles deliberated in conference was this: Is the
observance of the Law requisite unto justification? Paul answered: "I have
preached faith in Christ to the Gentiles, and not the Law. If the Jews want to
keep the Law and be circumcised, very well, as long as they do so from a right
motive."
VERSE 2. But privately to them which were of reputation.
This is to say, "I conferred not only with the brethren, but with the leaders
among them."
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The second excerpt represents the element of Fire. It speaks of emotional influences and base passions, and is drawn from The Master of Ballantrae by Robert Louis Stevenson: It will show, too, the moderation of my part in these affairs, a
thing which some have called recklessly in question.
"Durrisdeer.
"1757.
"HONOURED MADAM,
"I trust I would not step out of my place without occasion; but I
see how much evil has flowed in the past to all of your noble house
from that unhappy and secretive fault of reticency, and the papers
on which I venture to call your attention are family papers, and
all highly worthy your acquaintance.
"I append a schedule with some necessary observations,
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