Practical Sermons To Be Read in Families and Social Meetings

Chapter 1

1. That unrenewed men, who are not taught of God, however they

may by learning and the exercise of reason arrive at the conclusion that the Holy Scriptures are given by inspiration, and contain a true revelation of the will of God; yet never can attain to a true, saving faith; for "

Chapter 2

2. We learn also, that where there is a sincere love of truth, and a

pious disposition to be conformed to the will of God, both by believing what his word declares, and doing what it commands, there is a true faith, and hence it may be inferred that the person possessing such a state of m

Chapter 3

3. Finally, when faith is weak, the true method of strengthening it, is

not to be found in logical reasoning, but in divine illumination. There are doubts, which may be removed by a careful and impartial investigation of the evidences of divine revelation; but this may be effected; without a

Chapter 4

1. To endeavour to get clear views of the extent, spirituality, and

purity of the moral law, in order that we may know something of the multitude and malignity of our sins. We should, therefore, not only learn the nature of the law as exhibited in the Holy Scriptures, but should with con

Chapter 5

2. As the law convicts every man of sin, justification by it is

impossible; for even one sin would render it impossible for the transgressor to receive a sentence of acquittal; how much more impossible is it, when our sins are literally innumerable! -- 33 of 451 -- The only conditi

Chapter 6

3. If the law discovers sin of every kind to be a base and odious thing,

we should be solicitous to be cleansed from its defilement; and, in order to this, should come often to the fountain for sin and uncleanness, opened by the death of Christ; that is, we should by faith apply to the blood

Chapter 7

4. A spiritual knowledge of the law is the true source of evangelical

repentance. As sin is a disconformity to the law, and its turpitude is seen in this glass, the sight of it will fill the soul with sorrow and compunction, and work such a hatred of sin as will effectually turn away the s

Chapter 8

5. The knowledge of sin, produced by the law, will have a tendency to

make the true penitent willing to leave the present state, and forsake the clay tabernacle, as sin cleaves to the soul as long as it remains here, and these vile bodies must be laid in the dust, before they will be purif

Chapter 9

6. The most important benefit of the knowledge of sin, by the law, is,

that it shows us our absolute need of a better righteousness than our own, and impels us to look for salvation, to the cross of Christ. The law is a schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ; and, although this had primary re

Chapter 10

2. If this commandment is still in force, and God's moral law never

changes, then undoubtedly, all men who ever lived in the world are sinners; for sin is a transgression of the law. All have failed to love God with all the heart and soul and mind and strength.

Chapter 11

3. It hence appears, that not only have all men failed to come up to

the perfection which this commandment requires; but, by nature, all have utterly and totally come short; for by nature, all men love the creature more than the Creator. "They are lovers of pleasure, more than lovers of G

Chapter 12

4. We see from a consideration of this subject, that the want of love

to God is the corrupt fountain from which all other sins, as so many streams, flow. The first sin, and every other sin have had their source in this defect. All evil actions, even the worst, may be traced up to this corr

Chapter 13

5. From this subject, Christians may learn how much iniquity still

remains in their hearts. Just so far as you come short of loving God with all the heart, soul, mind, and strength, just so far are your hearts evil in the sight of God. Here, two things deserve -- 42 of 451 -- consider

Chapter 14

7. And hence, we see the absolute necessity of a radical change of

heart. If the moral image of God in man is defaced, none but God himself can renew us again in this image. In the first creation, it was the noblest production of the Almighty, and in the new creation, God must be the ef

Chapter 15

8. But although we see nothing in mere man but disconformity to

this holy commandment; yet in Jesus Christ, who was made under the law, we observe obedience to this commandment perfectly exemplified. He obeyed both internally and externally, for "he was holy, harmless, undefiled, and

Chapter 16

10. Finally, we should be constantly endeavouring to approach

nearer and nearer to the perfection which the law requires. We should be engaged daily, in cleansing ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, and perfecting holiness in the fear of God. The more conformable

Chapter 17

1. If there is a name given by which sinners may be saved, and if this

is the only name; if the knowledge of this name is necessary to salvation, then it is exceedingly important that this NAME with its divine import and saving power should be made known to all the world. For this end was t

Chapter 18

2. But the mere hearing of this name, and obtaining a historical

knowledge of the life and death, resurrection and ascension and glorious exaltation of JESUS, is not sufficient for salvation. "Whosoever calleth on this name shall be saved," i.e. whosoever believeth with the heart and

Chapter 19

3. They who would bring others to believe in Jesus, ought to be true

believers themselves, as saith the apostle, or rather the psalmist, "I believed, therefore have I spoken. We also believe, and therefore speak." One of the greatest dangers of the Church is an unconverted ministry. If th

Chapter 20

1. It is delightful to the pious mind to know, that although there are

so few in this world who engage sincerely in the worship of their Creator; and although by most his authority is despised, and his law trodden under foot; yet there is a world, peopled by an innumerable company of beings

Chapter 21

2. How pleasing is the thought that these celestial beings are lovers

of men, and take a lively interest in all our concerns; especially, that -- 71 of 451 -- they are deeply interested in all that relates to the salvation of God's elect, and cheerfully condescend to attend on such to gu

Chapter 22

3. But the service which angels can render to us is small, compared

with the work of redemption wrought by the Son of God. What measure can be assigned to the gratitude due for the birth of a Saviour? And although this glorious event occurred above eighteen centuries since; yet its impor

Chapter 23

4. Let us endeavour to imbibe the Spirit which animated this

multitude of the heavenly host, and make it our constant aim to give glory to God in the highest, to seek the peace of the world, and to exercise good-will to men. Let us remember, that we are not our own, but bought wit

Chapter 24

5. The lively remembrance of the Saviour's birth should not be

confined to any certain day in the year, but should call forth our -- 72 of 451 -- gratitude and praise, every day. We read nothing in the New Testament of setting apart one particular day for the celebration of this g

Chapter 25

1. From the dignity of the person by whom it is bestowed. A ring or

medal from a king or queen, or from some other royal personage, is appreciated, not so much by the intrinsic value of the gift itself, as by the condescension manifested by an exalted personage towards one in an inferior

Chapter 26

2. Another consideration proper to be taken into view, in estimating

the value of a gift is, the sacrifice at which it is made; or what it costs the donor. God gave us existence by a single act of his will, by the mere word of his power, and bestows upon us the bounties of his providence,

Chapter 27

3. Next, let us endeavour to estimate the value of the gift itself. The

text says, "He gave himself for us." This was the greatest gift which could possibly be made: heaven itself could furnish nothing more valuable than the Son of God. And a second gift equal to it could not be made. It is

Chapter 28

4. But after all, that which chiefly enhances the value of a gift is the

motive which impelled the donor to bestow it. Now, that motive which above every other, stamps a value on a gift, is LOVE. Love may be truly said to be the most excellent thing in the universe. It is that which gives wor

Chapter 29

5. The excellency of this gift will also be manifest from the benefit

which accompanies it. Man was placed in a very necessitous condition. He had fallen into a state of sin and misery, from which he could not deliver himself; nor was it in the power of any creature to afford him any effec

Chapter 30

1. How glorious is redeeming love and saving grace! "God so loved

the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him, should not perish, but have everlasting life." How wonderful, that the great God our Saviour should give himself for us! Angels may well be

Chapter 31

2. The work of redemption is God's most glorious work. Creation

sprung up at the word of his power, but redemption required a sacrifice, the richest and greatest that could be made; a sacrifice which no creature could offer; a ransom not of silver and gold, but of blood—of blood divi

Chapter 32

3. The redeemed of the Lord should be careful to carry out the

Redeemer's holy purpose, by departing from all iniquity. God is holy, and they should be holy too. Christ came not to be the minister of sin. His name was called JESUS, because he saves his people from their sins. Until

Chapter 33

4. As it is impossible for the redeemed to make any adequate return

for such a glorious and inestimable gift, our gratitude should be fervent and constant. Gratitude is, therefore, the chief duty of redeemed souls. And this feeling should lead those who have been redeemed at such a price

Chapter 34

1. The doctrine of "a new creation" implies that the departure of man

from God, was not partial but total; for had it been the fact, that man's nature had undergone only some slight or partial deterioration, there would not have been need of "a new creation." Paul, in another epistle, when

Chapter 35

2. Another thing implied in the doctrine of a new creation is the

necessity of a divine Agency in the change which man undergoes. Creation is a work which can be performed by no other but God. It is by the visible creation that we know that God exists. Man is no more capable of produci

Chapter 36

1. In the new creation, the substance of the soul is not changed. The

soul of man, considered in its essence, needs no change. The essence of the soul is incapable of corruption. As the work of God, it is still "very good," and perfect in its kind. In time of the Reformation, some theologi

Chapter 37

2. Though the new creation be a great change, yet is there no new

faculty created. Man, before conversion and afterwards, possesses the same rational faculties, which belong to the constitution of human nature. If a new faculty were bestowed on man, in the new creation, he would then b

Chapter 38

3. Neither does this new creation give new strength to the faculties,

which belong to human nature. The man of weak understanding is not, by this change, made to possess a strong mind; the understanding of a child is not at once made to possess the vigour of manhood. Persons constitutional

Chapter 39

4. Again, many persons, when they hear of the greatness of this

change, are led to infer, that its greatness must always be manifest to the consciousness of the person who is the subject of it. And hence, real Christians are induced to doubt of the reality of the change -- 90 of 451

Chapter 40

5. One other mistake into which young converts are apt to fall in

regard to conversion is, that when this great change is experienced, all sinful thoughts and feelings will be for ever banished from the mind. They entertain the idea, that, so great a change must certainly cleanse the s

Chapter 41

III. I come now, agreeably to the plan proposed, to exhibit some of

the traits of the new creature; and as there is in the language of our text an evident allusion to the creation of the world, it will be proper to bring distinctly into view, the analogy which is obvious between these tw

Chapter 42

1. The first production of almighty power, in the first creation, was

light. Before this, indeed, the rough materials of the universe existed, but the substance of our globe was then in a chaotic state. In the -- 92 of 451 -- language of the inspired historian, "The earth was without for

Chapter 43

2. Before the Spirit of God operated on the dark abyss of matter in

the first creation, every thing existed in a state of confusion and disorder; but by the divine agency, every thing was made to assume its proper place, and a beautiful order and harmony were produced; the light and air,

Chapter 44

3. Another thing manifest in the first creation was the existence of

life. At first, the mass of matter was not only dark and confused, but inanimate. Even after the darkness was done away by the creation of light; and after the various substances were separated and reduced to order; and

Chapter 45

1. How greatly are they deceived who think that a mere external

morality is a sufficient ground on which to build their hopes of eternal life. This subject, as explained, shows also the fatal mistake of all who rely on external forms of religion of whatever kind. All external service

Chapter 46

1. The great error of those who imagine that they are penitents,

because they often feel compunction for their sins, while they have not been persuaded to relinquish them. The worst of men feel compunction, and are sometimes agonized with bitter remorse. But there is no piety in remor

Chapter 47

2. And this leads me to point out another grand mistake, into which

many of the unconverted fall; and that is, that they can repent by their own will and strength, without any foreign aid. Multitudes are living under this fatal delusion; thinking, that when a convenient season shall arri

Chapter 48

3. In the light of this subject we may also see the error of those who

take an outward and partial reformation to be repentance. Repentance, we have seen, is an internal change, affecting the understanding, affections, and will, and thus producing the "fruits meet for repentance," namely, a

Chapter 49

4. We may, moreover, learn from what has been said, that

repentance is not a single act, but a great change of moral character; and that as long as men have any sin remaining in them, repentance can never cease. Every day the true penitent is endeavouring to turn away, more an

Chapter 50

1. What are we to understand by receiving Christ? The Evangelist

explains his own meaning in the latter part of the verse, by saying, "even as many as believed on his name." Receiving Christ, and believing on his name, are substantially the same thing. But do not many believe that Chr

Chapter 51

1. And here we may apply the proverb of our Saviour, "They that be

whole need not the physician, but they that are sick." Christ came "to seek that which was lost." "He came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." It is plain, therefore, that none will apply to Christ as

Chapter 52

1. Let us beware of imitating the ungrateful conduct of the

unbelieving Jews. By their unbelief, they forfeited all the rich privileges and blessings which appertained to them, as the covenanted people of God. They gloried in being the children of Abraham; in being of the circumc

Chapter 53

2. We learn from what has been said, the true nature of saving faith;

it is the "receiving Christ as he is offered in the gospel," as a divine Person, even the well-beloved and only begotten Son of God, who thought it not robbery to be equal with God. It is to receive him as our Prophet, P

Chapter 54

1. One of the ways in which the deceitfulness of the heart manifests

itself is in its tendency to blind the understanding in regard to religious truth. It is certainly a matter of primary importance, that our views of the doctrines and precepts of religion be correct. True religion is dis

Chapter 55

2. Again, the exceeding deceitfulness of the heart appears in the

delusive promises of pleasure, which it makes, in the indulgence of sinful desires. This illusion probably arises from an original principle of our constitution. Had man continued upright, this expectation of pleasure wo

Chapter 56

1. If the heart be so exceedingly deceitful and wicked, we should be

deeply humbled before God that we have hearts so evil. Men are prone to boast of the goodness of their hearts, even when their lives are immoral. But this is a most manifest instance of the deceitfulness of the heart, wh

Chapter 57

2. If the heart be so deceitful, we should place no confidence in it.

"He that trusteth in his own heart," says Solomon, "is a fool." It is a characteristic of the true Christian, to put "no confidence in the flesh." That the heart of a man is not to be trusted, however fairly it may promi

Chapter 58

3. If the heart be so deceitful, it should be watched with care. Even in

the sacred duties of religion, it will be prone, like a deceitful bow, to start aside, and the thoughts will wander far away from the object which should engage their attention. If, then, we would guard against the decei

Chapter 59

4. From the state and character of the heart here given, we may infer

the necessity of a change of heart; and every one should be led to cry to God for renewing grace. "Create in me, O God, a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within me." And as this work of renovation is not perfected

Chapter 60

5. We should come often to the fountain which is opened for sin and

uncleanness. We need both the purification of blood and of water. And Christ, our crucified Redeemer, emitted from his side a double stream of blood and water, emblematic of the double cleansing needed by the sinful soul

Chapter 61

6. And finally, if any of us have been made sensible of the

deceitfulness and wickedness of our hearts, and have, in some degree, been delivered from this great evil of our nature, this change we are sure, has not proceeded from ourselves. A heart deceitful above all things and d

Chapter 62

1. The universal prevalence of wickedness in the world, in all

countries, and in all ages. That crimes of every kind have ever abounded, every man who has the least acquaintance with the world, knows by his own observation. No man needs to travel far to obtain the evidence of this f

Chapter 63

2. The desperate wickedness of the heart will appear also, if we

consider its aversion to God and holiness. If the heart were not depraved, it would naturally be disposed to reverence and love the great Creator; for his character is most excellent, and our obligations to him are infin

Chapter 64

3. Another evidence of the desperate wickedness of the human heart

is, that it never grows better, or makes any true reformation of itself; but, on the contrary, grows worse and worse, as long as it is left to the influence of its own corrupt principles. Some diseases of the body have t

Chapter 65

4. But the heart of man, left to itself, not only never grows better, but

this disease may well be called "desperate," because it yields not to the most powerful remedies which human wisdom has ever invented; but increases in virulence, under them all. Since men were multiplied upon earth, var

Chapter 66

5. Again, when the heart appears to be converted, and a visible

reformation takes place in the life, after a while these promising appearances, which, like blossoms in the spring, gave ground to hope for abundant fruit, are nipped by the severe frost, or blasted by the chilling wind,

Chapter 67

6. No severity nor continuance of pain will ever conquer or remove

the depravity of the heart. Many have resorted to self-inflicted tortures, as great as human nature can endure, and have spent their lives in crucifying the desires of the flesh; and they may have, to a certain degree, s

Chapter 68

7. Another argument of the desperate wickedness of the human heart

is the power of indwelling sin in the regenerate. This body of sin caused the apostle Paul to groan, and to cry out, "O wretched man, who shall deliver me from the body of this death!" The working of iniquity in the rege

Chapter 69

1. He is made unto us "wisdom." Wisdom is one of the appropriate

names of the second Person of the adorable Trinity. Before creation, Wisdom is represented as being with God, as one brought up with him; and even then his thoughts were specially directed to this world; for "he rejoiced

Chapter 70

2. Christ is not only made to believers wisdom, but righteousness. By

righteousness we should understand conformity to the law of God, and the act of justification which is founded on such obedience. It is much more easy to conceive how Christ should become our wisdom, than our justifying

Chapter 71

3. Christ is also made sanctification to all those who are united to

him. He is the author of inherent, as well as of imputed righteousness. It has often been objected to the doctrine of imputed righteousness, that it removes or relaxes the obligation to holy living; as man is justified w

Chapter 72

4. Christ is also said, in our text, to be made unto us redemption.

This word, I think, must be here taken to signify deliverance, complete deliverance. Captives were often redeemed by the payment of a ransom-price; and persons of distinction, when made captives in war, were redeemed at

Chapter 73

1. The completeness of the plan of salvation which the gospel reveals.

Here is provision made for every spiritual want. Wisdom is provided for those who by nature are blind and foolish. They are made wise to know the way of life, and they receive that wisdom which is from above, "which is f

Chapter 74

2. And finally, we should never forget that all the blessings of

salvation are received through Christ. He is the believer's unfailing treasure, from whom he derives wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. He who possesses these cannot fail of eternal life. "He that hat

Chapter 75

1. This knowledge is necessary to our reconciliation with God. The

religion of a sinner must necessarily be different from that of an innocent being. He who has sinned, has contracted guilt, which must be removed by an atonement satisfactory to divine justice. While sin remains unpardon

Chapter 76

II. The second consideration which serves to show the necessity and

excellence of the knowledge of divine truth, is, that in this knowledge, and the holy affections which flow from it, consists the highest dignity and supreme excellence and felicity of human nature. With this crown man w

Chapter 77

III. A third consideration which goes fully to justify the choice of

Mary is, that the good part on which she had fixed her affections, should never be taken away from her. However excellent a possession may be intrinsically, and however well adapted to promote the happiness of the posses

Chapter 78

1. The first thing which strikes us as wonderful in this love of God is,

that it should have sinners as its objects. When we consider, that God is infinitely holy—that holiness is his very essence—it cannot but strike us, as an incomprehensible thing, that depraved and guilty creatures should

Chapter 79

2. Another thing which is incomprehensible in the love of Christ to

sinners is, that among men, all of whom were equally lost and helpless, it should select a certain number, as its objects, and leave all the rest under condemnation and depravity, as they were before. If men are the obje

Chapter 80

3. A third characteristic of the love of Christ is, its degree of intensity,

which is unparalleled. "Greater love hath no man than this," says Christ, "that a man lay down his life for his friends;" but Paul says, "God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died

Chapter 81

4. As this love did not originate in time, but, from eternity, the

delights of the Son were with the children of men; so it will never have an end. Many waters cannot extinguish it. Whom Christ loves, he love to the end. It is an everlasting love: "I have loved thee with an everlasting

Chapter 82

5. The love of Christ to his people is manifested by the revelation

which he has made for their instruction; by all the institutions of his church for their edification; and by all the dispensations of his providence, whether afflictive or prosperous. But, especially, the love of Christ

Chapter 83

6. Finally, the love of Christ to his disciples is a tender,

condescending love. He deals with them, as a mother with a child; carries them in his bosom, and gently leads them in the right way; and as they are prone, like lost sheep, to stray far away from his pastures, he goes af

Chapter 84

1. The first inference from this subject is, that if Christ so loved us,

we ought to make all the return possible, by loving him supremely, constantly, tenderly. Love to Christ is the only satisfactory evidence we can have that we are the objects of his love. We should love him, because he ha

Chapter 85

2. The second inference is, that if Christ so loved us as to give himself

for us, an offering of a sweet savour unto God, we ought to love one another, and to walk in love; for this is the exhortation of the apostle in our text. To walk in love, our minds should be imbued with this holy affect

Chapter 86

3. The love of Christ should be the constant object of our

contemplation, and the subject of our continual praises. This will -- 180 of 451 -- make us meet for heaven; for the everlasting song of the redeemed is, "To him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own bl

Chapter 87

1. In the first place I propose to speak of the foundation of love to

God. I do not mean the foundation which there is laid for such an affection, in the nature and perfections of the object, but the state and disposition of the mind, which is necessary to make it susceptible of the love o

Chapter 88

2. I proceed, in the second place, to speak of the nature of that

affection which we call love to God. Here I would not have you to suppose that any description of an emotion or affection, can convey a clear idea of it, to the mind of a person who has no experience of it. But, as all m

Chapter 89

1. Sincere love stands opposed to that which is not real, but

pretended; and also to that which is not pure, but adulterated. It is an easy thing to pretend to the love of God. We may profess with our lips, what our hearts never felt. We may borrow the very language which they use

Chapter 90

2. But our love to God must not only be sincere, it must also be

supreme. God will admit of no rival in our affections. He is a jealous God, and will not give his glory to another. Unless our love to God be stronger than our affection to all other objects, it will never become a unifo

Chapter 91

3. Our love to God must be disinterested. It is degrading to religion

to suppose that its highest efforts, and noblest affections are merely selfish. To suppose that the desire of our own happiness, is the only principle by which man can be actuated, goes far towards confounding all distin

Chapter 92

4. The last property of the love of God, which I shall mention is, that

it must be constant. It is a constant, steady flame which many waters cannot quench. It is like the fire on God's altar, which burnt day and night without going out. It is not always equally lively, nor always in actual

Chapter 93

4. In the last place, we come to speak of the invariable effects of love

to God. These will be better understood, and the subject more easily improved in the way of self-examination, if we consider the analogy between the effects of this affection of love, when a creature is its object, and w

Chapter 94

1. One necessary effect of love is a desire to please the person

beloved. Love always seeks for a return. The person who loves a friend is ever solicitous to conciliate the esteem of that friend, and cannot be satisfied without a reciprocal affection. "If ye love me," says Jesus, "kee

Chapter 95

2. Another effect of love is a desire of the company and conversation

of the person beloved, and uneasiness and restlessness when he is absent. These feelings will be in proportion to the strength of our love. But God is invisible, and Christ is removed far beyond our sight; how then can w

Chapter 96

3. Another natural effect of love is a desire to be conformed to the

character of the person beloved. Love has an assimilating effect on every mind which is the subject of it. Then, if we love the Lord Jesus Christ, we shall be seeking conformity to his lovely character. His excellencies

Chapter 97

4. The last effect of love to God is an ardent concern for his glory;

which discovers itself in active exertions to promote truth and holiness in ourselves and others; in using our best endeavours to advance the Redeemer's kingdom, by our own exertions, or by aiding and encouraging the exe

Chapter 98

1. Carefully shun all those circumstances and things which are known

to have a tendency to damp the fervours of love, or to extinguish this holy fire. Here a large field opens, but we have not time to occupy it. A few things only, out of many, can be noticed. Above all, avoid every sinful

Chapter 99

2. To keep ourselves in the love of God, we should often meditate on

the superlative moral excellence of the divine character, as displayed in his works and word. The habit of associating the idea of God with every object of nature, is one of the happiest which can be formed. It brings Go

Chapter 100

3. Every habit and affection is preserved in vigour, and increased by

frequent exercise. If we desire to strengthen any member of our -- 200 of 451 -- body, or to render our senses more acute and susceptible, we find no method more effectual than to exercise incessantly those parts which

Chapter 101

4. The greatest hinderance to the exercise and increase of our love to

God, is our blindness of mind and unbelief. The objects of sense too much occupy and interest us; while spiritual and invisible objects are obscurely perceived, and make a feeble and transient impression on the mind. Alt

Chapter 102

5. But in the words just recited, we are admonished that this

desirable object cannot be accomplished by mere human effort. It is a solemn truth, that "without Christ we can do nothing." Hence, while we are exhorted to act, and to exert ourselves to exercise faith, and to keep ours

Chapter 103

1. By doing this we shall best glorify God upon earth. Every true

Christian has this as his chief end, but all do not keep the object sufficiently before their minds; and all do not pursue steadily that course which leads directly to this end. Inferior objects, because they are present

Chapter 104

2. The next motive which should influence us to perform faithfully

the duty enjoined in the text, is, that this will be the most effectual method of promoting the welfare and salvation of our fellow creatures. Man is not placed here to live merely for himself. He is bound to love his ne

Chapter 105

3. Lastly, the more we keep ourselves in the love of God, the more

meet shall we be for the heavenly inheritance, where perfect love reigns in every heart. Not only so, but the richer reward will be possessed; for notwithstanding the imperfection of our services, God is pleased to make

Chapter 106

1. Wherein consists the strength spoken of by the prophet? and what

are its elements? The Philistines were utterly unable to find out in what the amazing strength of Samson consisted, until he revealed it to his espoused wife. It was his religious observance of the laws of the Nazarite w

Chapter 107

II. We come in the second place to inquire how spiritual strength

may be acquired; and how renewed, when it has been impaired. It has already been shown that the source of this strength is not in ourselves but in God. We are not exhorted, therefore, to be strong in ourselves, but "in t

Chapter 108

2. As our natural life requires to be nourished by suitable food, from

day to day, without which it would decline, and death would ensue; so the spiritual life of the Christian needs to be recruited continually, with the nutriment which is suited to its growth and strength; and if this be w

Chapter 109

3. Although every degree of spiritual strength is a precious

possession, and we are not permitted "to despise the day of small things," nor to reject from our fellowship those who are weak in the faith; yet it is the duty and privilege of every believer to aim at high attainments

Chapter 110

1. It imported that he was a true son of Abraham. From the Holy

Scriptures we learn, that the children of Abraham are of two kinds; "they that are born after the flesh, and they that are born after the promise." And the apostle Paul teaches, that "they are not all Israel who are of I

Chapter 111

2. A true Israelite was one in covenant with God. The nation of Israel

were distinguished from all other nations by this circumstance, that God had entered into a solemn covenant with them. Every descendant of Abraham, and every one connected with his family permanently, received the sign o

Chapter 112

3. A third characteristic of a true Israelite is, that he is a worshipper

of the true God. All other nations worshipped idols, and knew not Jehovah the living God. Even of the Samaritans, who professed to worship the God of Israel, our Lord said, "They worship they know not what." The genuine

Chapter 113

4. When giving the character of the true Israelite, we should not omit

that circumstance which gave origin to the name Israel. When Jacob was returning with his numerous family from Mesopotamia into Canaan, his native country, from which he had been an exile for more than twenty years, he w

Chapter 114

5. The only other characteristic which I shall mention as

distinguishing the true Israelite, is, that he has the promise of an inheritance. To Israel after the flesh, the land of Canaan was promised. First, this promise was made to Abraham, then to Isaac and Jacob; and afterwar

Chapter 115

1. The conduct of Philip must be highly approved, and should be

imitated. He had found the Saviour, and was fully persuaded, that he was the Messiah, predicted by Moses in the law, and by all the -- 226 of 451 -- prophets, and therefore he desires to make his friends also acquainte

Chapter 116

2. We may learn from the case of Nathanael, that although good men

are subject to be prejudiced against the servants of God, yet, when they have the opportunity of being better acquainted with them, these prejudices are sure to be dissipated; and their dislike converted into cordial att

Chapter 117

3. Another remark suggested by the history of Nathanael is, that our

Lord is the witness of every action of our lives; and especially, of every exercise of devotion. He sees us, when we are concealed from the view of all mortals. He hears the prayer which is offered up, in -- 227 of 451

Chapter 118

4. Finally, we learn from our Lord's address to Nathanael, that

sincerity in our religion is essential. He is described as being "without guile." Nothing, not even open impiety, is more odious in the sight of God, than hypocrisy. On account of this vice, our blessed Lord denounced, i

Chapter 119

1. The duty is, "to glorify God, with our bodies and spirits." Let us

begin with the latter. How may we glorify God with our spirits, that is, with our rational souls? This we may do, in the first place, by making use of the reason with which we are endowed, in contemplating the character

Chapter 120

II. We come to consider and urge the motive for our glorifying God,

mentioned in our text. "Ye are not your own—ye are bought with a price." When it is said, that we are not our own, the meaning is, that we are the property of the Lord. Every one has a right to the use and benefit of wha

Chapter 121

1. When one went to redeem his brother or friend, though he might

have far to go, and many difficulties to encounter, before he found the unhappy captive, still he had not to go out of the world; but when Christ, as our elder brother, undertook the ransom of his people, it was necessar

Chapter 122

2. When an earthly redeemer set off in search of an enslaved son, or

brother, he had indeed to obtain and take with him a ransom—and it might be a large sum which was requisite, for those who now held the captive in bondage, would raise their demand in proportion to the wealth of the frie

Chapter 123

3. This redemption is distinguished from the transaction so called

among men, by the nature of the bondage and captivity under which the sinner was confined. He was first under a just sentence of condemnation from the law of God. Next, he was held bound in cords of iniquity, which no cr

Chapter 124

1. Let us reflect penitently on our culpable neglect of this great duty,

of glorifying God with our bodies and spirits which are God's. Though we may not be chargeable with a total neglect of duty; though we may have had this as the highest object of pursuit, for years past; though we may be

Chapter 125

2. We should endeavour to obtain a lively feeling of our obligations to

the Redeemer. We should often remember, that we are redeemed captives, bought off from a cruel servitude, from galling chains; yea, from certain death, not of the body only, but also of the soul—a death of never ending m

Chapter 126

3. Let us esteem it a great privilege to be the redeemed servants of

the Lord. It is the highest honour which we can enjoy; and he never requires his servants to be losers by their sacrifices, labours, and privations for his sake. Our highest happiness also is inseparably connected with t

Chapter 127

1. The true nature of conviction of sin, is a thing of which the called

of God have no distinct knowledge, prior to experience. There is, no doubt, a great diversity in the exercises and circumstances of souls under conviction. Some are agitated with awful terror, while others are gently led

Chapter 128

2. Conversion, also, turns out, in experience, to be a very different

thing from what was anticipated. Awakened sinners, having heard of persons being translated from darkness "to the marvellous light of the gospel;" and having, perhaps, heard or read of some remarkable conversions, expect

Chapter 129

3. God leads his once blind but chosen people in the way which they

know not, as it relates to the means and progress of their sanctification. All the children of God are inspired with an ardent love of holiness; and they are much delighted with the thought of having the power of sin des

Chapter 130

4. Another thing in the dispensations of God to his people which,

prior to experience, they never distinctly understood, and which cannot easily be explained, is his leaving them for a season to backslide; and then recovering them by the exercise of the same sovereign grace which first

Chapter 131

5. Finally, the people of God are often conducted through the "valley

and shadow of death" in an unexpected manner. We learn, that anciently there were some "who were all their lives subject to bondage, through fear of death;" whom Christ came to deliver. Well; that bondage of fear is stil

Chapter 132

1. We may learn from what has been said, the end to be accomplished

by the various dispensations of God to his people is, to humble their pride, to divest them of self-righteousness and self-confidence—to lead them to appreciate the grace and faithfulness of the Saviour; and to give exer

Chapter 133

2. Believers, by being led in this way, are instructed in the knowledge

of the deep depravity of their nature; the deceitfulness of the heart; the turpitude of sin, in its various forms and aspects; of the malice and subtlety of the grand adversary; and consequently of the riches of divine g

Chapter 134

3. Let us learn then to trust implicitly in the providence and in the

promises of a covenant-keeping God. His providence extends to the hairs of our head, and his promises are all yea and amen in Christ Jesus, and are "EXCEEDING GREAT AND PRECIOUS." We should learn to live upon the promise

Chapter 135

1. The evil which we are exhorted to shun is sloth. The bad

consequences of this vice, as it relates to worldly concerns, are well understood; and youth are often admonished by parents and teachers, not to indulge a propensity which is inherent in every son and daughter of Adam.

Chapter 136

II. But the duty of the Christian is not merely negative: he has

positive duties to perform, as well as to shun the evils to which human nature is prone. And the duty enjoined in the text is the imitation of the men distinguished for piety, whose history has been left on record, for t

Chapter 137

1. It was prompt. No sooner did he hear the voice of God speaking to

him than he obeyed, however repugnant the command might be to human feelings. When God first revealed to him his will, commanding him leave his own country and kindred, he hesitated not, but went out, not knowing as yet,

Chapter 138

2. Abraham's faith was implicit. He believed the revelations of God,

without waiting for an explanation of the difficulties or mysteries involved in the subject. Some of the declarations of the Almighty had the appearance of being, in the nature of things, impossible; as that Sarah when p

Chapter 139

3. The third characteristic of Abraham's faith was its strength. Faith

may be of very different degrees of strength. We hear our Saviour saying, "I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel." Again, "O woman, great is thy faith." On the other hand, he often upbraids his disciples for

Chapter 140

4. Another characteristic of Abraham's faith was, that it directed his

attention and affections to heaven, as his resting place. The promise of Canaan was of no value to him, individually; for, he owned not a foot of land in the country, while he lived, except a burying ground, which he had

Chapter 141

III. In the last place, I am to speak of the inheritance of the saints,

which is here mentioned. The saints referred to in the text, are said "to inherit the promises." From the time of the fall, God has been graciously pleased to bind himself by promise and by covenant, to his chosen people

Chapter 142

1. Since, then, so rich a prize is held up before us, and is promised to

him that overcometh, let us lay aside sloth. Let us gird up our loins and strive, and wait, and hope to the end. Let us not be weary in well- doing, but let us press toward the mark.

Chapter 143

2. Let us meditate frequently and profoundly on the characters of the

saints, which are left on record, for our imitation. Let it not be supposed, because many of them were inspired, and had supernatural gifts, that they are not proper objects of imitation. They were men of like passions w

Chapter 144

3. Remember that faith is the secret spring which keeps the spiritual

life in motion. If you inquire what enabled Abraham to rise so high in the performance of difficult acts of obedience, the answer is, that he -- 278 of 451 -- was strong in faith. He believed whatever God told him, and

Chapter 145

4. To faith join patience; for often the fulfilment of the promise is

long deferred. Though it tarry, wait for it. The duty of Christians is often, in Scripture, expressed by "waiting"—waiting on the Lord. This implies, that patience is requisite. God may not see fit to appear when we firs

Chapter 146

5. Cast anchor on the solid ground of God's promises. Take fast hold,

and resolve never to let go, and you will safely outride every storm. No one has ever been disappointed who relied on the faithfulness of God. "A covenant-keeping God" is one of the titles by which he has -- 279 of 451

Chapter 147

6. Meditate much on the promised inheritance. Think how near it is;

only a few days, or at most a few years distant. These will roll round as fast as those which have already gone by. Think how sure it is, resting on the promise of one who cannot lie. Think how rich it is— thought cannot

Chapter 148

2. The manslayer, pursued by the avenger of blood, might, for a

season, persuade himself that he could be safe in some other place, and might attempt to conceal himself in some refuge nearer home. Such a course would have been exceedingly unwise, for wherever he was, he would still b

Chapter 149

3. The figure, "flying for refuge," is as well suited to express the act of

faith, when Christ is believed on, as any that could be used. And the phrase "laying hold," is strikingly descriptive of the earnestness with which the convinced sinner seizes the gracious promise of God, when his eyes a

Chapter 150

4. The blessed effect of flying to this refuge which is set before us is,

strong consolation. No feeling with which we have an acquaintance is more delightful, than an assurance of deliverance from a great impending calamity. And as no danger to which we can be exposed is comparable to that of

Chapter 151

1. From what has been said, it may be inferred, that there is good

reason for the name "gospel"—"good news." For to the sinner, justly condemned by the unalterable law of God, it opens a safe refuge, to which the guiltiest may flee. I would, therefore, now invite, exhort, and entreat ev

Chapter 152

2. Let all beware of false refuges. Of these, there are many, into

which deluded souls enter in search of safety, but by which they are only exposed to a more dreadful destruction. They can furnish no real shelter from the storm of divine wrath. The most they can do is, to afford a mome

Chapter 153

3. As long as the Christian is in this world, he needs a refuge to which

he may flee in seasons of affliction and danger. In himself, there is no help nor strength. He is like a defenceless, timorous dove, liable to be devoured by every rapacious bird of prey. If he had no place of refuge, he

Chapter 154

4. The believer having found a safe refuge, should be careful to

remain within the limits prescribed. The manslayer, though acquitted, could not with safety leave the city of refuge, during the life-time of the high-priest, and that might often be as long as he himself lived. But our

Chapter 155

5. Let condemned and perishing sinners, who are exposed daily to

the wrath of God, avail themselves of the opportunity of escaping to a place of safety. Let there be no delay in fleeing from the wrath to come. While you delay and procrastinate, divine vengeance may suddenly overtake y

Chapter 156

2. They have the indwelling of the Spirit of God, which secures their

continuance in a state of grace, and enables them to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ—"to die unto sin and to live unto righteousness." If believers were left to themselves, their c

Chapter 157

3. It is a part of the blessedness of believers, that they are the special

care of divine Providence. All things work for their good. The very hairs of their head are numbered. Their afflictions are fatherly chastisements, which shall work for them the peaceable fruits of righteousness. Yea, th

Chapter 158

4. They who put their trust in God are blessed, because they enjoy

inward peace. They have peace with God, peace of conscience, peace from the jarring elements of corrupt passions. They look forward to an inheritance incorruptible, under filed, and that fadeth not away. Hope that maketh

Chapter 159

5. When they leave the world they shall be blessed in the open vision

of God's glory; for they shall see no more darkly as through a glass, but face to face. They shall know as they are known. They shall be perfectly cleansed from the pollutions of sin, and when they shall see the Saviour,

Chapter 160

II. Having shown how the world opposes the Christian, we come next

to explain how the Christian gains the victory. "And this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." The faith to which this victory is ascribed is not that historical or speculative faith, which nearly a

Chapter 161

1. If what has been said be true, then we must conclude that genuine

faith is rare in the world; yea, rare among professors. For when we take a survey of the Christian world, how small the number who seem to have gained a victory over the world! The thirst for riches, honours, and pleasur

Chapter 162

2. Let not the poor and afflicted in this world, who believe in Christ,

be discouraged. You, my brethren, are placed in the circumstances most favourable to a victory over the world. Those fascinating temptations which have ensnared and ruined so many professors, are removed far from you. Yo

Chapter 163

1. Afflictions have often been made the means of bringing careless

and impenitent sinners to serious consideration, which leads them to repentance, and a thorough reformation of life. This effect is produced by cutting off the person from his sinful indulgences. A spell of sickness, or

Chapter 164

2. Afflictions are made eminently beneficial to the pious, by

preventing them from fixing their affections unduly on earthly things. There is in all minds too strong a tendency to the things which are present and visible. These worldly objects become a snare to many, and by the too

Chapter 165

3. As affliction is often employed to prevent the saints from

wandering; so, also, it is the usual method by which backsliders are reclaimed. When Christians have considerably declined from the lively exercises of religion, they are but little affected by the warnings of the word.

Chapter 166

4. Affliction serves as a furnace to purge out the dross which still

lurks in the regenerate heart. Just as the precious metals are separated from their dross, by being cast into the furnace heated seven times; so the people of God are purified as by fire. But the furnace not only serves

Chapter 167

2. Never murmur at the dealings of divine Providence. Nothing can

befall you without the ordering of God. Repine not, therefore, at what he does, for however dark the dispensation, wisdom and mercy guide the stroke. Say then, "I know that in faithfulness, thou hast afflicted me."

Chapter 168

3. Try to improve your afflictions by exercising patience and

submission. God has a sovereign right to dispose of you and yours. Rebel not against him. He has promised that all these things shall work together for your good. More, he has declared that these light afflictions, which

Chapter 169

4. Consider that this is not your state of rest; that is to come. Here

you are subjected to various trials, but when you have suffered a while, you shall have an abundant entrance administered to you, into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. -- 345 of 451 -- SERM

Chapter 170

1. The excellency of the knowledge of Christ arises from the fact, that

in him all divine and human excellence are combined. Whatever beauty and glory resides in the divine attributes, is in Christ; for "in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily." Yea, the brightest display of th

Chapter 171

2. The superlative excellence of the knowledge of Christ is manifest

in this, that it has a transforming and assimilating effect on all who believingly contemplate it. This effect is the natural consequence of a spiritual view of the glory of Christ; for the affections of the heart are ex

Chapter 172

3. This knowledge is intimately connected with our justification, as

well as our renovation; for justifying faith is either included in it; or arises certainly from it. If faith be the belief of the truth, or a full persuasion of the veracity of God speaking in his word, this knowledge in

Chapter 173

4. The superlative excellence of this knowledge is evident from its

tendency to generate lively hope and to fill the soul with peace and joy. There is "peace in believing." The very exercise of the mind in contemplating such excellence, is the purest and sublimest pleasure of which we ca

Chapter 174

5. The knowledge of Christ is excellent above all comparison, because

it fits the soul for the enjoyments of heaven. The object of this knowledge is the same to the saint in heaven as to the believer on earth; the difference consists in the clearness of the vision. Here we see through a gl

Chapter 175

6. This leads me to remark, in the last place, that this knowledge will

be for ever increasing. While here, the believer as he grows in grace, grows in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To every finite mind the acquisition of knowledge must be gradual. In heaven, though the

Chapter 176

1. If the knowledge of Christ be so excellent, it should be our constant

and vigorous effort to increase in it daily. It is the same as to grow in grace. And to attain this object, two things only are necessary; first, a diligent perusal of the Holy Scriptures, where the character and work of

Chapter 177

2. The second inference is, if the knowledge of Christ be so excellent,

and so infinitely superior to all other acquisitions, we should endeavour to extend it to as many of our fellow-creatures as we can possibly reach. It is our duty, and should be our delight to spread the gospel over the

Chapter 178

1. Because they clearly reveal to us a future life, and teach us the way

by which we may obtain it. Nothing certain can be known of a future state of existence without the Scriptures; for even if reason could assure us that we shall exist hereafter, it cannot satisfy us, that we shall enjoy h

Chapter 179

2. But the word of God contained in the Holy Scriptures, is not only a

revelation of a way of life, but it is an authoritative grant of life to condemned sinners, on the condition of faith and repentance. It is one thing to know that there is life, and to be informed of the way in which it

Chapter 180

3. But the word is not only an authoritative message from the King of

kings, granting life to all who are willing to receive it, but also the appointed instrument of communicating spiritual life to the soul. Though the work of regeneration requires the exertion of the same -- 355 of 451 -

Chapter 181

4. Again, the word is not only the means of generating spiritual life,

but is the nutriment by which this life is sustained, and by which it increases and grows. This progress of the soul in spiritual strength is what, in Scripture, is called sanctification. The new man, formed in regenerat

Chapter 182

5. By the word of the Lord the bodies of the saints, at the last day,

shall be resuscitated, and inspired with new life. For all that are in their graves shall hear his voice, and come forth, some to everlasting life. Therefore, Christ, whose resurrection is an earnest of that of his peopl

Chapter 183

II. We come, in the second place, as was proposed, to consider the

duty of holding forth the word of life. The allusion is to holding up a light to others who are in darkness. The Philippians, in the preceding verse, are represented as in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation.

Chapter 184

1. The courts of the Lord were highly prized by the pious of old,

because, upon entering the sacred enclosure, they were permitted to behold the altar of burnt-offerings, on which, morning and evening, an unblemished lamb was offered unto God, and on which its blood was sprinkled. Ther

Chapter 185

2. The next conspicuous object in the court of the Lord's house, was

the laver of purifying water. This was a lively figure of the "sanctification of the Spirit." Christ came both by water and by blood. So, when he hung on the cross, and was pierced to the heart with a spear, the disciple

Chapter 186

3. As the court contained objects of deep interest to the true penitent;

so also did the tabernacle itself. On entering this sacred edifice the first thing which would engage the attention of the observer, was the golden candlestick, with its seven branches and lamps, constantly illumining th

Chapter 187

4. Another significant emblem in the holy place of the tabernacle,

was the table of shew-bread: on which were placed twelve loaves of bread, in two rows, answering to the twelve tribes of Israel. These loaves were covered with frankincense, and were renewed every Sabbath morning; and th

Chapter 188

5. But in the holy place there was still another interesting object; it

was the altar of incense. Every morning and evening sacred perfumes were here burnt, by a coal taken from the altar of burnt offerings. The ascending smoke, the sweet savour, and the officiating priest, exhibited, in an

Chapter 189

6. But the tabernacle of the Lord was not only amiable and

interesting, on account of what was visible, but more so on account of those sacred objects which were concealed from the eyes of the people, and even of the common priests. Between the holy and the most holy place was s

Chapter 190

1. The benefits and pleasures of public worship being thus great, we

ought so highly to prize the house and ordinances of God, as never to be absent from his courts, unless providentially prevented from attendance. This subject brings a solemn admonition to many who suffer a trifling obst

Chapter 191

2. This subject also reproves those, who, for the sake of earthly gain,

emigrate from a region where they enjoy the privileges of God's house, and go, with their families, far into the wilderness, where there are no churches, no Sabbath observed, no sound of the gospel, except from some chan

Chapter 192

3. But, finally, I feel my heart moving me to say a word to such as are

still, unhappily, far from the tabernacle of God, whether thus separated from the ordinances of public worship by their own fault or not. In such painful circumstances, I know, there are found many of God's dear children

Chapter 193

1. The first thing which shows the misery of an unconverted sinner is,

that he lies under a sentence of condemnation from the holy law of God. The curse which he has incurred is proportionate to the number and heinousness of his sins. "Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things w

Chapter 194

2. While the impenitent man lives in sin, he is miserable. The soul

cannot be satisfied with earthly objects—and often great disappointment is experienced by most in regard to the objects on which they place their affections. Their schemes of acquiring wealth utterly fail; or riches, whe

Chapter 195

3. Though it is true that the unconverted are far from being happy in

this world; yet statements of the truth on this subject commonly produce very little effect on their minds; for they still labour under the delusion that happiness is attainable in earthly pursuits, or in the possession

Chapter 196

1. God should be worshipped with a knowledge of his true character.

To worship our Creator without knowing what kind of a being he is, is to worship, like the Athenians, an "unknown God." This is the great fault of the heathen in their religion. They are very devout, and take great pains

Chapter 197

2. God should be worshipped with reverence, or godly fear. It is

natural when we come into the presence of one greatly our superior, to feel ourselves overawed. And if this feeling is experienced when we are brought into the presence of a man, how much more reasonable and proper when

Chapter 198

3. Humility is another ingredient in a truly devotional spirit, and it is

a temper so essential in the worship of God, that whatever service is -- 396 of 451 -- destitute of this property, and however costly it may be, and however exact in its conformity with the divine rule in other respect

Chapter 199

4. But "without faith, it is impossible to please God; for he that

cometh unto him must believe that he is, and that he is the rewarder of them who diligently seek him." Indeed, without faith all worship must be a mere empty form, and however decent and proper and orthodox this form may

Chapter 200

5. God should be worshipped with the fixed attention of the mind,

and with fervency of spirit. Spiritual worship is interrupted by nothing so much as the wandering of our thoughts. It is to be feared that the majority of worshippers have not their thoughts steadily directed to the grea

Chapter 201

6. God must be worshipped according to the Scriptures, by such rites

and ceremonies only as he hath appointed, and not by forms and institutions of man's devising. As to the mere external circumstances of worship, as to time and place, and the position and attitude of the worshippers, the

Chapter 202

7. Finally, God should be worshipped frequently and constantly. Men

are not required to spend their whole time in the worship of God, because they have other duties incumbent on them, which, by the law of God, they are required to perform. But God should be worshipped daily, morning and

Chapter 203

1. From what has been said, we may infer, that under all

dispensations and in all worlds, the highest duty of all rational creatures is, to WORSHIP GOD; and that all who live in the neglect of divine worship, are living in a state of rebellion against the King of heaven; for t

Chapter 204

II. To consider the import of the prayer here uttered.

-- 406 of 451 -- In the holy Scriptures errors and sins signify the same thing. The very word which commonly is used to express the idea of sin, in both the original languages, literally signifies to miss a mark. It is

Chapter 205

I. What I have proposed is, to assign some reasons for the difficulty,

here implied, in knowing our sins. And it will be proper before going further, to make a distinction between knowing that a particular act is a sin, and perceiving the turpitude or moral evil that is in that act. The tru

Chapter 206

1. The first reason which may be assigned for our knowing so little of

ourselves is, that few acquire the habit of reflection. It is natural and easy to think on things without, which are the objects of our senses; -- 407 of 451 -- but to turn our mind in on itself and its operations, req

Chapter 207

2. Another cause of difficulty in obtaining the knowledge of our inner

man is the fugitive nature of our thoughts, and the ever varying state of our emotions. Indeed, the very effort to inspect these mental exercises changes their nature, so that they are not the same as they were the momen

Chapter 208

3. There is in the human mind so great a mingling of different and

even opposite feelings, that it is hard to separate things so blended together, and more difficult to ascertain the moral character of every emotion or desire. While some exercises of mind are morally good, and others mo

Chapter 209

4. There is another constantly operative cause which prevents men

from knowing their own errors. It is that false medium which pride and self-love produce, and through which their sins are either not perceived at all, or are not seen in their true colour and dimensions. Every one has o

Chapter 210

5. There is another consideration, closely allied to the last, which has

a powerful tendency to prevent us from knowing our own sins. The discovery of sin produces remorse, which is not only a painful feeling, but a more intolerable pain than any of which the human soul is susceptible, as far

Chapter 211

6. Another cause of erroneous notions respecting our own character

is, the habit of looking at ourselves through the medium of the flatteries and praises of others. When persons are in exalted stations, or called to the performance of public duties, they often excite the admiration of t

Chapter 212

7. Another reason why men so commonly remain ignorant of

themselves is, that they get into the habit of comparing themselves with others around them; and because they observe many addicted to crimes of which they are not guilty, they draw the conclusion that they are better th

Chapter 213

8. Finally, on this head, the great source of error is not knowing, or

not applying to ourselves, the true standard of rectitude. "By the law is the knowledge of sin." Of the extent of the demands of this law, and of the spiritual nature of the obedience which it requires many remain ignora

Chapter 214

1. If it be so difficult to know the moral state of our own hearts, we

should be led to a more constant watchfulness over our own thoughts and feelings. We should also be in the habit of daily self- examination. And as we cannot judge correctly without having in our minds the true standard

Chapter 215

2. Knowing the treachery of the heart, and the many hindrances

which stand in the way of acquiring a knowledge of our sins, we should incessantly and importunately pray to God who alone possesses a perfect knowledge of the heart to search and try us, and see whether any wicked dispo

Chapter 216

II. We come now, in the second place, to consider the import of the

prayer here uttered. The prayer is for deliverance, not only from known sins, but also from such as were hidden. There are two kinds of cleansing or purification; the one is from guilt by expiation; the second from inher

Chapter 217

1. That the best evidence of the existence of a holy nature, is the

sincere and prevailing desire of perfect holiness. "Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled." The love of holiness is the same as the love of the law. Says the royal Psalmist

Chapter 218

2. The evidence of a gracious state is not the persuasion that the

object sought is fully attained, but an ardent, habitual desire to reach it. "Not as though I had already attained, or were already perfect," says Paul; "but this one thing I do; forgetting those things which are behind,

Chapter 219

3. When, on account of sin, the conscience is again burdened and

wounded, recourse must be had to the same "blood of sprinkling" which afforded relief at first. No peace can be found any where else. -- 419 of 451 -- Penances, and pilgrimages, and multiplied religious ceremonies and

Chapter 220

4. We must not forget that many of our sins are hidden from

ourselves. For these we should seek for pardon and purification. Though we cannot repent of these in detail, we can in the general. We can repent of the sin of our nature, commonly called original sin, from which all act

Chapter 221

5. The neglect of secret sins often leads to the commission of

presumptuous sins. By degrees the concealed poison gathers strength, until at last, on some favourable occasion, it exerts its power and breaks out into overt acts, and for a season, at least, gains dominion over the man

Chapter 222

1. In the first place, then, the words may be applied to such as are

labouring under a conviction of sin, and are oppressed with a sense of guilt. Whether such have already believed or not, there is encouragement in these words to induce them to embrace the promise; for the fountain of gr

Chapter 223

2. Again, these words are calculated to afford comfort and

encouragement to such as are struggling with the inbred corruptions of their own hearts, and with the temptations of the wicked one; who feel "another law in their members, warring against the law of their mind;" "the fl

Chapter 224

3. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ will be sufficient to support and

comfort believers under the severest trials, the heaviest afflictions, and most violent temptations, to which they may be subjected. Afflictions are the lot of the people of God in this world. It is written, "Many are th

Chapter 225

4. But grace is requisite to enable us to act, as well as to suffer.

Arduous duties are incumbent on the Christian. He is placed and continued here to glorify his Maker and Redeemer, to benefit his fellow-creatures, and to secure the salvation of his own soul. The performance of duty ofte

Chapter 226

1. How truly blessed are they who have obtained an interest in the

grace of the Lord Jesus Christ; and how solicitous should we all be to have this matter placed on a secure foundation. All his people may confidently say, "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want."

Chapter 227

2. Christians should habituate themselves to confide implicitly,

under all circumstances of affliction, and in the performance of all arduous duties, on the all-sufficient grace of Christ. It will ever be to -- 427 of 451 -- them according to their faith. But if they are doubtful of

Chapter 228

3. All who have been made partakers of the grace of God, are bound

to exercise unceasing gratitude for such unmerited favour. If you have been chosen unto life eternal, it was to magnify his glorious grace. If your sins are pardoned, and your persons accepted and justified, it is by the

Chapter 229

1. Stephen addressed his prayer to the Lord Jesus. He had just been

favoured with a vision of this divine Person in his glory. He saw him standing on the right hand of God. He would never have thought of addressing himself to any of the saints or angels, who also stood round the throne o

Chapter 230

2. The second truth which we may learn from this text is, that the

soul exists separate from the body in an intermediate state between death and the resurrection; and that in this state it is with Jesus. When we look at the dead body of a fellow-creature, and attend merely to the sugges

Chapter 231

3. Every believer, when called to die, should consider it his high

privilege, cheerfully and confidently, to commit his departing spirit into the hands of Jesus, his Lord. He who acts the part of a kind Shepherd, while we are passing up through this wilderness, guiding, protecting, and

Chapter 232

4. No doubt the martyr's prayer was heard. No doubt the every where

present Redeemer would willingly receive the precious deposit, now with confidence committed to him. None that trust in him shall ever be confounded or disappointed in their hopes. There is some reason to think that ever

Chapter 233

1. As we must take this journey—as there is no discharge in this

warfare—and as we have no experimental knowledge of the country to which we are going, and have no opportunity of conversing with any who have experience in this matter, it is obviously of the first importance to secure

Chapter 234

2. Our sensitive souls naturally shrink with dread from the thought

of plunging into an unknown state of existence. If we feel no dread of the misery of hell, yet we cannot easily divest ourselves of the fear of appearing in the immediate presence of God; and even the idea of -- 436 of

Chapter 235

3. But what shall the dying sinner do? Who will receive his spirit in

that awful moment? He rejected the Saviour, and now the door of mercy is closed for ever. Now he may cry and not be heard. Alas! alas! alas! what will become of the impenitent sinner when God requires his soul? SERMON XX

Chapter 236

II. Having considered the objects of the invitation, let us now

contemplate the character of Him from whom it proceeds. Though we need to know more than the name of this divine Person, yet even this is "as ointment poured forth." His name is Emanuel, "God with us." Said the angel to

Chapter 237

III. How must we come? Not by a bodily approach, for this is

impossible. Where Christ now is we cannot come: and a local approach, if it were practicable, would be useless. Many came near to the Saviour, when he sojourned on earth, who never derived any benefit from him. His worst

Chapter 238

IV. What will be gained by coming to Christ? One thing only is

promised. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest." But in this one thing, every thing good is included. They only can be said to be at rest, who are in a state of happiness; and t