There is yet another form of backsliding that must be mentioned, especially since many in our present age have been overtaken by it: an eager and consuming involvement in political disputes.

The state of the world in recent times has stirred up the attention and conversation of people in every class of society. As one political party or another has gained success, people’s minds have become deeply affected—some filled with fear that their side will be defeated, others overflowing with excitement, as if a new world of freedom, peace, and universal happiness were about to begin.....