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163. The more frequently a vice is indulged the greater its tyranny. Hence, the older a sin the stronger its sway over the moral character, the more blinding its effect upon the intellect, and the less likely is it to be recognized as a sin. Now we must consider the first sin of the human race, its longest indulged vice. This sin will be the chief characteristic of Antichrist, when he comes. He "opposeth and exalteth himself against all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he sitteth in the temple of God, setting himself forth as God" (2 Thessalonians 2:4, R. V.)

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"Vice is a monster of such frightful mien,

As to be hated, needs but to be seen.

But seen too oft, familiar with its face,

We first endure, then pity, then embrace."

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