Leland. I don’t know what God was doin’ before he made the world. Don’t know any thin’ about it. I a’n’t a educated man.
Moderator. Yes, but you must understand me. You certainly believe that God had a people chosen and elect from all eternity?
Leland. No. I don’t believe that. They couldn’t a’ been our kind o’ folks, anyway; because ours are made out of the dust of the earth, you know.
Moderator. Mr. Leland, we have heard of your Christian life, of your efficiency and your success, and we are met to ordain you to the ministry of the gospel. This is a solemn occasion, and you must not make light of the questions. Now, I want to know if you believe in the total depravity of mankind?
Leland. No, I don’t, if you mean by that that men are as bad as they can be; for the Devil a’n’t any worse’n that, you know.
Moderator. Do you believe in imputed righteousness, and that it is sufficient to save all who have faith?
Leland. I don’t know any righteousness that will save a man who won’t do right himself.
Moderator. Do you believe in the final perseverance of the saints?
Leland. I don’t know what that means.
Moderator. Well, you believe that all who are converted will be kept, and not fall away?