A Compend of Christian Divinity

A Compend Of Christian Divinity by Sylvanus Cobb. This 1847 work presents a systematic overview of Christian doctrine from a Universalist perspective. Cobb surveys the nature of God, His existence and attributes, the Creation, the divine Law, and the design and penalties of that Law, arguing that punishment is intended for correction rather than endless torment. He treats Judgment as an ongoing, benevolent administration, and discusses Forgiveness as reconciliation with God through moral reform, not mere pardon from future punishment. The book then analyzes the Person of Christ, affirming Him as the Messiah and beloved Saviour—not the self-existent God—and details His Mission, the Resurrection, and the intermediate state, while rejecting the notion of endless punishment. The latter sections address the New Birth, Faith, Repentance, and the transforming influence of Christianity on life, concluding with reflections on divine sovereignty and human accountability. Cobb aims to harmonize Scripture with reason, arguing for a hopeful, universalist vision of salvation through Christ and the gradual, moral renovation of humanity.