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Old Paths by J. C. Ryle Table of Contents PREFACE CHAPTER 1 - INSPIRATION CHAPTER 2 - OUR SOULS! CHAPTER 3 - FEW SAVED! CHAPTER 4 - OUR HOPE! CHAPTER 5 - "ALIVE OR DEAD?" CHAPTER 6 - OUR SINS! CHAPTER 7 - FORGIVENESS CHAPTER 8 - JUSTIFICATION CHAPTER 9 - THE CROSS OF CHRIST CHAPTER 10 - THE HOLY GHOST CHAPTER 11 - HAVING THE SPIRIT CHAPTER 12 - CONVERSION CHAPTER 13 - THE HEART CHAPTER 14 - CHRIST'S INVITATION CHAPTER 15 - FAITH CHAPTER 16 - REPENTANCE CHAPTER 17 - CHRIST'S POWER TO SAVE CHAPTER 18 - ELECTION CHAPTER 19 - PERSEVERANCE Copyright Preface "If the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?" - 1 Corinthians 14:8 The volume now in the reader's hands consists of a series of papers, systematically arranged, on the leading truths of Christianity which are "necessary to salvation".

Old Paths - Monergism · Old Paths by J. C. Ryle Table of Contents ... contains nothing but the "Old Paths" in which the Apostolic Christians ... J. C. - LIVERPOOL

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Page 1: Old Paths - Monergism · Old Paths by J. C. Ryle Table of Contents ... contains nothing but the "Old Paths" in which the Apostolic Christians ... J. C. - LIVERPOOL

OldPaths

byJ.C.Ryle

TableofContents

PREFACECHAPTER1-INSPIRATIONCHAPTER2-OURSOULS!CHAPTER3-FEWSAVED!CHAPTER4-OURHOPE!CHAPTER5-"ALIVEORDEAD?"CHAPTER6-OURSINS!CHAPTER7-FORGIVENESSCHAPTER8-JUSTIFICATIONCHAPTER9-THECROSSOFCHRISTCHAPTER10-THEHOLYGHOSTCHAPTER11-HAVINGTHESPIRITCHAPTER12-CONVERSIONCHAPTER13-THEHEARTCHAPTER14-CHRIST'SINVITATIONCHAPTER15-FAITHCHAPTER16-REPENTANCECHAPTER17-CHRIST'SPOWERTOSAVECHAPTER18-ELECTIONCHAPTER19-PERSEVERANCECopyright

Preface

"Ifthetrumpetgiveanuncertainsound,whoshallpreparehimselftothebattle?"-1Corinthians14:8

Thevolumenowinthereader'shandsconsistsofaseriesofpapers,systematicallyarranged,ontheleadingtruthsofChristianitywhichare"necessarytosalvation".

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Few,probably,willdenythattherearesomethingsinreligionaboutwhichwemaythinkotherpeopleholdveryerroneousviews,andare,notwithstanding,innodangerofbeingfinallylost.AboutbaptismandtheLord'sSupper,abouttheChristianministry,aboutformsofprayerandmodesofworship,abouttheunionofChurchandState,aboutallthesethingsitiscommonlyadmittedthatpeoplemaydifferwidely,andyetbefinallysaved.Nodoubttherearealwaysbigotsandextremepartisans,whoarereadytoexcommunicateeveryonewhocannotpronouncetheirShibbolethontheabove-namedpoints.But,speakinggenerally,toshutoutofheavenallwhodisagreewithusaboutthesethings,istotakeupapositionwhichmostthoughtfulChristianscondemnasunscriptural,narrow,anduncharitable.

Ontheotherhand,therearecertaingreattruthsofwhichsomeknowledge,bycommonconsent,appearsessentialtosalvation.Suchtruthsaretheimmortalityofthesoul,thesinfulnessofhumannature,theworkofChristforusasourRedeemer,theworkoftheHolyGhostinus,forgiveness,justification,conversion,faith,repentance,themarksofarightheart,Christ'sinvitations,Christ'sintercession,andthelike.Iftruthslikethesearenotabsolutelynecessarytosalvation,itisdifficulttounderstandhowanytruthswhatevercanbecallednecessary.Ifpeoplemaybesavedwithoutknowinganythingaboutthesetruths,itappearstomethatwemaythrowawayourBiblesaltogether,andproclaimthattheChristianreligionisofnouse.FromsuchamiserableconclusionIhopemostpeoplewillshrinkbackwithhorror.

Toopenoutandexplainthesegreatnecessarytruths,toconfirmthembyScripture,toenforcethembyhome,appealstotheconscienceofallwhoreadthisvolume.Thisisthesimpleobjectoftheseriesofpaperswhichisnowofferedtothepublic.

Tothisstatement,Ifranklyadmit,thefirstandtwolastpapersinthevolumeformanexception.Inspiration,Election,andPerseveranceareundoubtedlypointsaboutwhichgoodmenineveryagehavedisagreed,andwilldisagreeperhapswhiletheworldstands.Theimmenseimportanceofinspirationinthisday,andtheextraordinaryneglectintowhichelectionandperseverancehavefallen,notwithstandingtheSeventeenthArticle,aremyreasonsforinsertingthethreepapers.

ThenamewhichIhaveselectedwillpreparethereadertoexpectnonewdoctrinesinthisvolume.Itissimple,unadulterated,old-fashionedEvangelicaltheology.Itcontainsnothingbutthe"OldPaths"inwhichtheApostolicChristians,theReformers,thebestEnglishChurchmenforthelastthreehundredyears,andthebestEvangelicalChristiansofthepresentday,havepersistentlywalked.Fromthese"paths"Iseenoreasontodepart.Theyareoftensneeredatandridiculed,asold-fashioned,effete,wornout,andpowerlessintheNineteenthCentury.Beitso,"Noneofthesethingsmoveme".Ihaveyettolearnthatthereisanysystemofreligiousteaching,bywhatevernameitmaybecalled,High,orBroad,orRomish,orNeologian,

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whichproducesonequarteroftheeffectonhumannaturethatisproducedbytheold,despisedsystemofdoctrinewhichiscommonlycalledEvangelical.Iwillinglyadmitthezeal,earnestness,anddevotednessofmanyreligiousteacherswhoarenotEvangelical.ButIfirmlymaintainthatthewayoftheschooltowhichIbelongisthe"moreexcellentway".ThelongerIlivethemoreIamconvincedthattheworldneedsnonewGospel,assomeprofesstothink.Iamthoroughlypersuadedthattheworldneedsnothingbutabold,full,unflinchingteachingofthe"oldpaths".Theheartofmanisthesameineveryage.Thespiritualmedicinewhichitrequiresisalwaysthesame.ThesameGospelwhichwaspreachedbyLatimer,andHooper,andBradford,byHall,Deviant,Usher,Reynolds,andHopkins,byManton,Brooks,Watson,Charnock,Owen,andGurnall,byRomaine,Venn,Grimshaw,Hervey,andCecil,thisistheGospelwhichalonewilldorealgoodinthepresentday.TheleadingdoctrinesofthatGospelarethesubstanceofthepaperswhichcomposethisvolume.Theyarethedoctrines,Ifirmlybelieve,oftheBibleandtheThirty-nineArticlesoftheChurchofEngland.Theyaredoctrineswhich,Ifind,wearwell,andinthefaithofthemIhopetoliveanddie.

IrepeatmostemphaticallythatIamnotashamedofwhatarecommonlycalled"Evangelicalprinciples".Fiercelyandbitterlyasthoseprinciplesareassailedonallsides,loudlyandscornfullyassomeproclaimthattheyhavedonetheirworkandareuselessinthisday,Iseenoevidencewhateverthattheyaredefectiveordecayed,andIseenoreasonforgivingthemup.Nodoubtotherschoolsofthoughtproducegreatoutwardeffectsonmankind,gatherlargecongregations,attaingreatpopularity,andbymeansofmusic,ornaments,gestures,postures,andagenerallyhistrionicceremonial,makeagreatshowofreligion.Iseeitall,andIamnotsurprised.ItisexactlywhatastudyofhumannaturebythelightoftheBiblewouldleadmetoexpect.Butforrealinwardeffectsonhearts,andoutwardeffectsonlives,Iseenoteachingsopowerfulasthorough,genuineEvangelicalteaching.JustinproportionasthepreachersofotherschoolsborrowEvangelicalweaponsandEvangelicalphraseologyIseethemobtaininginfluence.Nodoubtthegoodthatisdoneintheworldislittle,andevilabounds.ButIamcertainthattheteachingwhichdoesmostgoodisthatofthedespisedEvangelicalschool.Itisnotmerelytrueandgooduptoacertainpoint,andthendefectiveandneedingadditions,assometellus;itistrueandgoodallround,andneedsnoadditionatall.IfthosewhoholdEvangelicalviewswereonlymorefaithfultotheirownprinciples,andmorebold,anduncompromising,anddecided,bothintheirpreachingandtheirlives,theywouldsoonfind,whateverinfidelsandRomanistsmaypleasetosay,thattheyholdtheonlyleverwhichcanshaketheworld.

ThereadersofthemanytractswhichGodhasallowedmetosendforthforthirtyyears,mustnotexpectmuchthattheyhavenotseenbeforein"OldPaths".Experiencehastaughtme,atlast,thatthepeculiartastesofallclassesofsocietymustbeconsulted,ifgoodistobedonebythepress.Iamconvincedthattherearethousands

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ofpeopleinEnglandwhoarewillingtoreadavolume,butwillneverlookatanythingintheformofatract.ItisforthemthatInowsendforth"OldPaths".

Thosewhoreadthroughthisbookcontinuously,andwithoutapause,will,doubtless,observeacertaindegreeofsamenessandsimilarityinsomeofthepapers.Thesamethoughtsareoccasionallyrepeated,thoughinadifferentdress.Toaccountforthis,Iwillaskthemtorememberthatmostofthepaperswereoriginallywrittenseparately,andatlongintervalsoftime,insomecasesofasmuchastwentyyears.Oncalmreflection,Ihavethoughtitbettertorepublishthem,prettymuchastheyoriginallyappeared.Fewreadersofareligiousbooklikethisreaditallthroughatonce;andthegreatmajority,Isuspect,finditenoughtoreadquietlyonlyoneortwochaptersatatime.

Inowsendforththevolumewithadeepsenseofitsmanydefects;butwithanearnestprayerthatitmaydosomegood.

J.C.-LIVERPOOL

Inspiration

“AllScriptureisgivenbyinspirationofGod.”[2Tim3:16]

HowwastheBiblewritten?-“Whenceisit?Fromheaven,orofmen?”-HadthewritersoftheBibleanyspecialorpeculiarhelpindoingtheirwork?-IsthereanythingintheBible whichmakes it unlike all other books, and therefore demands our respectfulattention?Thesearequestionsofvastimportance.TheyarequestionstowhichIwishtoofferananswerinthispaper.Tospeakplainly,thesubjectIproposetoexamineisthatdeepone,theinspirationofScripture.IbelievetheBibletohavebeenwrittenbyinspirationofGod,andIwantotherstobeofthesamebelief.

Thesubjectisalwaysimportant.Iplaceitpurposelyintheveryforefrontofthepaperswhich compose this volume. I ask a hearing for the doctrineswhich I am about tohandle,becausetheyaredrawnfromabookwhichisthe“WordofGod.”Inspiration,inshort,istheverykeelandfoundationofChristianity.IfChristianshavenoDivinebooktoturntoasthewarrantoftheirdoctrineandpractice,theyhavenosolidgroundforpresentpeaceorhope,andno right to claim theattentionofmankind.Theyarebuildingonaquicksand,andtheirfaithisvain.Weoughttobeabletosayboldly,“Wearewhatweare,andwedowhatwedo,becausewehavehereabookwhichwebelievetobethe“WordofGod.”

Thesubjectisoneofpeculiarimportanceinthepresentday.Infidelityandscepticism

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aboundeverywhere. Inone formor another theyare tobe found in every rank andclassofsociety.ThousandsofEnglishmenarenotashamedtosaythattheyregardtheBible as an old obsolete Jewish book, which has no special claim on our faith andobedience,andthat itcontainsmany inaccuraciesanddefects.Myriadswhowillnotgosofarasthisarewaveringandshakenintheirbelief,andshowplainlybytheirlivesthat they are not quite sure the Bible is true. In a day like this the true Christianshouldbeabletosethisfootdownfirmly,andtorenderareasonofhisconfidenceinGod’sWord.Heshouldbeablebysoundargumentstomeetandsilencethegainsayer,ifhecannotconvincehim.Heshouldbeabletoshowgoodcausewhyhe thinks theBibleis“fromheaven,andnotofmen.”

The subject without doubt is a very difficult one. It cannot be followed up withoutentering on ground which is dark and mysterious to mortal man. It involves thediscussionof thingswhicharemiraculous,andsupernatural, and above reason, andcannotbefullyexplained.Butdifficultiesmustnotturnusawayfromanysubjectinreligion.Thereisnotascienceintheworldaboutwhichquestionsmaynotbeaskedwhichnoonecananswer.Itispoorphilosophytosaywewillbelievenothingunlesswe can understand everything! We must not give up the subject of inspiration indespairbecauseitcontainsthings“hardtobeunderstood.”Therestillremainsavastamountofgroundwhichisplaintoeverycommonunderstanding.Iinvitemyreaderstooccupythisgroundwithmetoday,andtohearwhatIhavegottosayontheDivineauthorityofGod’sWord.

Inconsideringthesubjectbeforeus,therearetwothingswhichIproposetodo:-

I. In the first place, I shall try to show the general truth, that theBible is given byinspirationofGod.

II.Inthesecondplace,IshalltrytoshowtheextenttowhichtheBibleisinspired.

Itrustthatallwhoreadthispaperwilltakeupthesubject inaseriousandreverentspirit. This question of inspiration is no light one. It involves tremendously graveconsequences. If the Bible is not the Word of God and inspired, the whole ofChristendom for 1800 years has been under an immense delusion; half the humanracehasbeencheatedanddeceived,andchurchesaremonumentsoffolly.-IftheBibleistheWordofGodandinspired,allwhorefusetobelieveitareinfearfuldanger;-theyarelivingonthebrinkofeternalmisery.Noman,inhissobersenses,canfailtoseethatthewholesubjectdemandsmostseriousattention.

I. In the first place, I propose to show the general truth,-that the Bible is given byinspirationofGod.

In saying this, Imean to assert that theBible is utterly unlike all other books that

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wereeverwritten,becauseitswriterswerespecially inspired,orenabledbyGod, fortheworkwhichtheydid.IsaythattheBookcomestouswithaclaimwhichnootherbookpossesses.ItisstampedwithDivineauthority.Inthisrespectitstandsentirelyalone. Sermons, and tracts, and theologicalwritings of all kinds,may be sound andedifying,but theyareonly thehandiworkofuninspiredman.TheBiblealone is theBookofGod.

NowIshallnotwastetimeinprovingthattheScripturesaregenuineandauthentic,thattheywerereallywrittenbytheverymenwhoprofesstohavewrittenthem,andthat they contain the very things which they wrote. I shall not touch what arecommonlycalledexternalevidences.Ishallbringforwardthebookitself,andputitinthewitness box. I shall try to show that nothing can possibly account for theBiblebeingwhatit is,anddoingwhatithasdone,exceptthetheorythat it is theWordofGod.Ilayitdownbroadly,asapositionwhichcannotbeturned,thattheBibleitself,fairlyexamined,isthebestwitnessofitsowninspiration.Ishallcontentmyselfwithstatingsomeplain facts about theBible,which canneitherbedeniednor explainedaway. And the ground I shall take up is this,-that these facts ought to satisfy everyreasonable inquirer that theBible is ofGod, andnotofman.Theyare simple facts,whichrequirenoknowledgeofHebrew,orGreek,orLatin,inordertobeunderstood;yet they are facts which prove to my own mind conclusively that the Bible issuperhuman,ornotofman.

(a)Itisafact,thatthereisanextraordinaryfullnessandrichnessinthecontentsoftheBible.Itthrowsmorelightonavastnumberofmost importantsubjectsthanalltheotherbooksintheworldputtogether.Itboldlyhandlesmatterswhicharebeyondthereachofman,when left tohimself. It treatsof thingswhicharemysteriousandinvisible,-thesoul,theworldtocome,andeternity,depthswhichmanhasnolinetofathom. All who have tried to write of these things, without Bible light, have donelittle but show their own ignorance. They grope like the blind; they speculate; theyguess; they generally make the darkness more visible, and land us in a region ofuncertaintyanddoubt.HowdimweretheviewsofSocrates,Plato,Cicero,andSeneca!Awell-taughtSunday scholar, in thisday, knowsmore spiritual truth thanall thesesagesputtogether.

TheBiblealonegivesareasonableaccountofthebeginningandendoftheglobeonwhich we live. It starts from the birthday of sun, moon, stars, and earth in theirpresent order, and shows us creation in its cradle. It foretells the dissolution of allthings,whentheearthandallitsworksshallbeburnedup,andshowsuscreationinitsgrave.It tellsusthestoryof theworld’syouth;and it tellsus thestoryof itsoldage.Itgivesusapictureofitsfirstdays;anditgivesusapictureofitslast.Howvastandimportant isthisknowledge!Canthisbethehandiworkofuninspiredman?Letustrytoanswerthatquestion.

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TheBiblealonegivesa trueand faithfulaccountofman. It doesnot flatter himasnovelsandromancesdo;itdoesnotconcealhisfaultsandexaggeratehisgoodness;itpaints him just as he is. It describes him as a fallen creature, of his own natureinclinedtoevil,-acreatureneedingnotonlyapardon,butanewheart,tomakehimfitforheaven.Itshowshimtobeacorruptbeingundereverycircumstance,whenlefttohimself,-corrupt after the loss of paradise,-corrupt after the flood,-corrupt whenfenced in by divine laws and commandments, corrupt when the Son of God camedownandvisitedhimintheflesh,-corruptinthefaceofwarnings,promises,miracles,judgments,mercies.Inoneword,itshowsmantobebynaturealwaysasinner.Howimportantisthisknowledge!Canthisbetheworkofuninspiredminds?Letustry toanswerthatquestion.

TheBiblealonegivesustrueviewsofGod.Bynaturemanknowsnothingclearlyorfully aboutHim.All his conceptions ofHimare low, grovelling, and debased.WhatcouldbemoredegradedthanthegodsoftheCanaanitesandEgyptians,-ofBabylon,ofGreece,andofRome?WhatcanbemorevilethanthegodsoftheHindusandotherheatheninourowntime?-BytheBibleweknowthatGodhatessin.Thedestructionoftheoldworldbytheflood;theburningofSodomandGomorrah;thedrowningofPharaohandtheEgyptiansintheRedSea;thecuttingoffthenationsofCanaan;theoverthrow of Jerusalem and the Temple; the scattering of the Jews; all these areunmistakablewitnesses.-By theBibleweknow thatGod loves sinners.His graciouspromise in the day of Adam’s fall; His longsuffering in the time of Noah; HisdeliveranceofIsraeloutofthelandofEgypt;HisgiftofthelawatMountSinai;Hisbringingthetribesintothepromisedland;HisforbearanceinthedaysoftheJudgesandKings;His repeatedwarnings by themouth ofHis prophets;His restoration ofIsraelaftertheBabyloniancaptivity;HissendingHisSonintotheworld,induetime,tobecrucified;HiscommandingtheGospeltobepreachedtotheGentiles,all theseare speaking facts.-By the Bible we learn thatGod knows all things. We see Himforetellingthingshundredsandthousandsofyearsbeforetheytakeplace,andasHeforetellssoitcomestopass.HeforetoldthatthefamilyofHamshouldbeaservantofservants,-thatTyreshouldbecomearockfordryingnets,-thatNinevehshouldbecomeadesolation,-thatBabylonshouldbemadeadesert-thatEgyptshouldbethebasestofkingdoms,thatEdomshouldbeforsakenanduninhabited,-andthattheJewsshouldnot be reckoned among the nations. All these things were utterly unlikely andimprobable.Yetallhavebeen fulfilled.OncemoreIsay,howvastand important allthisknowledgeis!CanthisBookbetheworkofuninspiredman?Letustrytoanswerthatquestion.

TheBiblealoneteachesusthatGodhasmadeafull,perfeet,andcompleteprovisionforthesalvationoffallenman.Ittellsofanatonementmadeforthesinoftheworld,by the sacrifice and death of God’s own Son upon the cross. It tells us that byHisdeath for sinners, as their Substitute, He obtained eternal redemption for all thatbelieveonHim.TheclaimsofGod’sbroken lawhavenowbeensatisfied.Christhas

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sufferedforsin,thejustfortheunjust.Godcannowbejustandyetthejustifieroftheungodly.Ittellsusthatthereisnowacompleteremedyfortheguiltofsin,-eventheprecious blood of Christ; and peace, and rest of conscience for all who believe onChrist.“WhosoeverbelievethonHimshallnotperish,buthaveeternallife.”Ittellsusthat there isacompleteremedyfor thepowerofsin,-eventhealmightygraceof theSpirit ofChrist. It showsus theHolyGhostquickeningbelievers, andmaking themnewcreatures.ItpromisesanewheartandanewnaturetoallwhowillhearChrist’svoice, and follow Him. Once more I say, how important this knowledge is! WhatshouldweknowofallthiscomfortabletruthwithouttheBible?CanthisBookbethecompositionofuninspiredmen?Letustrytoanswerthatquestion.

TheBiblealoneexplainsthestateofthingsthatweseeintheworldaroundus.Therearemanythingsonearthwhichanaturalmancannotexplain.Theamazinginequalityofconditions,-thepovertyanddistress;theoppressionandpersecution,-theshakingsand tumults,-the failures of statesmen and legislators,-the constant existence ofuncuredevilsandabuses,-allthesethingsareoftenpuzzlingtohim.Hesees,butdoesnotunderstand.ButtheBiblemakesitallclear.TheBiblecantellhimthatthewholeworld lieth inwickedness; that theprinceof theworld, thedevil, iseverywhere,-andthatit isvaintolookforperfectioninthepresentorderofthings.TheBiblewill tellhimthatneitherlawsnoreducationcaneverchangemen’shearts,-andthatjustasnomanwillevermakeamachineworkwell,unlessheallowsforfriction,-soalsonomanwilldomuchgood in theworld,unlesshealways remembers that humannature isfallen,andthattheworldheworksinisfullofsin.TheBiblewilltellhimthatthereis“a good time” certainly coming,-and comingperhaps sooner thanpeople expect it,-atime of perfect knowledge, perfect justice, perfect happiness, and perfect peace. ButtheBiblewilltellhimthistimeshallnotbebroughtinbyanypowerbutthatofChristcomingtoearthagain.AndforthatsecondcomingofChrist,theBiblewilltellhimtoprepare.Oncemore,Isay,howimportantisallthisknowledge!

AllthesearethingswhichmencouldfindnowhereexceptintheScriptures.WehaveprobablynottheleastideahowlittleweshouldknowaboutthesethingsifwehadnottheBible.Wehardlyknowthevalueoftheairwebreathe,andthesunwhichshinesonus,becausewehaveneverknownwhatitistobewithoutthem.Wedonotvaluethe truths on which I have been just now dwelling, because we do not realize thedarknessofmentowhomthesetruthshavenotbeenrevealed.Surelynotonguecanfully tell the value of the treasures this one volume contains. Set down that fact inyourmind,anddonotforgetit.TheextraordinarycontentsoftheBibleareagreatfactwhichcanonlybeexplainedbyadmittingitsinspiration.MarkwellwhatIsay.Itisasimplebroadfactthat,inthematterofcontents,theBiblestandsentirelyalone,andnootherbookisfittobenamedinthesamedaywithit.HethatdarestosaytheBibleisnotinspired,lethimgiveareasonableaccountofthisfact,ifhecan.

(b)Itisanotherfactthatthereisanextraordinaryunityandharmonyinthecontents

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oftheBible,whichisentirelyaboveman.Weallknowhowdifficultitistogetastorytold by any three persons, not living together, in which there are not somecontradictions and discrepancies. If the story is a long one, and involves a largequantity of particulars, unity seems almost impossible among the common run ofmen.ButitisnotsowiththeBible.Hereisalongbookwrittenbynotlessthanthirtydifferentpersons.Thewritersweremenofeveryrankandclassinsociety.Onewasalawgiver.Onewasawarlikeking.Onewasapeacefulking.Onewasaherdsman.Onehad been brought up as a publican, another as a physician, another as a learnedPharisee,twoasfishermen,-severalaspriests.Theylivedatdifferentintervalsoveraspaceof 1500years;and thegreaterpartof themneversaweachother face to face.Andyetthereisaperfectharmonyamongallthesewriters?Theyallwriteas if theywereunderonedictation.Thestyleandhand-writingmayvary,butthemindthatrunsthroughtheirworkisalwaysoneandthesame.Theyalltellthesamestory.Theyallgiveoneaccountofman,-oneaccountofGod,-oneaccount of theway of salvation,-oneaccountofthehumanheart.Youseetruthunfoldingundertheirhandsasyougothroughthevolumeof theirwritings,-butyouneverdetectanyrealcontradiction,orcontrarietyofview.

Letussetdownthisfactinourminds,andponderitwell.Tellusnotthatthisunitymight be the result of chance. No one can ever believe that but a very credulousperson.There isonlyone satisfactoryaccount tobe givenof the factbeforeus.-TheBibleisnotofman,butofGod.

(c)Itisanotherfactthatthereisanextraordinarywisdom,sublimityandmajestyinthestyleoftheBible,whichisaboveman.Strangeandunlikelyasitwas,thewritersofScripturehaveproducedabookwhichevenat thisday isutterlyunrivalled.Withallourboastedattainmentsinscienceandartandlearning,wecanproducenothingthatcan be compared with the Bible. Even at this very hour, in 1877, the book standsentirely alone. There is a strain and a style and a tone of thought about it, whichseparate it fromall otherwritings.There arenoweakpoints, andmotes, and flaws,andblemishes.Thereisnomixtureofinfirmityandfeebleness,suchasyouwillfindin theworksof even thebestChristians. “Holy,holy,holy,” seemswrittenon everypage.TotalkofcomparingtheBiblewithother“sacredbooks”socalled,suchastheKoran, theShasters,or thebookofMormon, ispositivelyabsurd.Youmightaswellcompare the sunwith a rushlight,-or Skiddawwith amolehill,-or St. Paul’swith anIrishhovel,-or thePortlandvasewithagardenpot,-or theKohinoordiamondwithabitofglass.1Godseemstohaveallowedtheexistenceofthesepretendedrevelations,in order to prove the immeasurable superiority of His own Word. To talk of theinspirationoftheBible,asonlydiffering indegree fromthatofsuchwritingsas theworks of Homer, Plato, Shakespeare, Dante, and Milton, is simply a piece ofblasphemousfolly.EveryhonestandunprejudicedreadermustseethatthereisagulfbetweentheBibleandanyotherbook,whichnomancanfathom.Youfeel,onturningfromtheScripturestootherworks,thatyouhavegotintoanewatmosphere.Youfeel

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likeonewhohasexchangedgoldforbasemetal,andheavenforearth.Andhowcanthismightydifferencebeaccountedfor?ThemenwhowrotetheBiblehadnospecialadvantages. They lived in a remote corner of the civilized earth. They had,most ofthem, little leisure, fewbooks, andno learning,-such as learning is reckoned in thisworld.Yetthebooktheycomposeisonewhichisunrivalled!Thereisbutonewayofaccountingforthisfact.TheywroteunderthedirectinspirationofGod.

(d) It is another fact that there is an extraordinary accuracy in the facts andstatementsoftheBible,whichisaboveman.Hereisabookwhichhasbeenfinishedandbefore theworld fornearly 1800years.These1800yearshavebeen thebusiestandmost changeful period theworldhas ever seen.During this period the greatestdiscoveries have been made in science, the greatest alterations in the ways andcustoms of society, the greatest improvements in the habits and usages of life.Hundreds of things might be named which satisfied and pleased our forefathers,whichwehave laidaside longagoasobsolete,useless, andold-fashioned.The laws,the books, the houses, the furniture, the clothes, the arms, the machinery, thecarriagesofeachsucceedingcentury,havebeenacontinualimprovementonthoseofthecenturythatwentbefore.Thereishardlyathinginwhichfaultsandweakpointshavenotbeendiscovered.Thereisscarcelyaninstitutionwhichhasnotgonethrougha process of sifting, purifying, refining, simplifying, reforming, amending, andchanging.ButallthistimemenhaveneverdiscoveredaweakpointoradefectintheBible. Infidels have assailed it in vain. There it stands,-perfect, and fresh, andcomplete,as itdideighteencenturiesago.Themarchof intellectneverovertakes it.The wisdom of wise men never gets beyond it. The science of philosophers neverproves it wrong. The discoveries of travellers never convict it of mistakes.-Are thedistantislandsofthePacificlaidopen?Nothing is foundthat intheslightestdegreecontradicts the Bible account of man’s heart.-Are the ruins of Nineveh and Egyptransackedandexplored?NothingisfoundthatoverturnsonejotortittleoftheBible’shistoricalstatements.-Howshallweaccountforthisfact?Whocouldhavethought itpossible that so largeabook,handling suchavastvarietyof subjects, shouldat theend of 1800 years, be found so free from erroneous statements? There is only oneaccounttobegivenofthefact.-TheBiblewaswrittenbyinspirationofGod.

(e) It is another fact that there is in theBibleanextraordinary suitableness to thespiritualwants of allmankind. It exactlymeets the heart ofman in every rank orclass,ineverycountryandclimate,ineveryageandperiodoflife.Itistheonlybookin existence which is never out of place and out of date. Other books after a timebecome obsolete and old-fashioned: the Bible never does. Other books suit onecountryorpeople,andnotanother:theBiblesuitsall.It isthebookofthepoorandunlearned no less than of the rich and the philosopher. It feeds the mind of thelabourer in his cottage, and it satisfies the gigantic intellects of Newton, Chalmers,Brewster, andFaraday. LordMacaulay, and JohnBright, and thewriters of brilliantarticlesintheTimes,areallunderobligationstothesamevolume.Itisequallyvalued

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by the converted New Zealander in the southern hemisphere, and the Red RiverIndianinthecoldnorthofAmerica,andtheHinduunderthetropicalsun.

Itistheonlybook,moreover,whichseemsalwaysfreshandevergreenandnew.Foreighteen centuries it has been studied and prayed over by millions of privateChristians, and expounded and explained and preached to us by thousands ofministers.Fathers,andSchoolmen,andReformers,andPuritans,andmoderndivines,haveincessantlydugdownintothemineofScripture,andyethaveneverexhaustedit.Itisawellneverdry,andafieldwhichisneverbarren.Itmeetstheheartsandmindsand consciences of Christians in the nineteenth century as fully as it did those ofGreeksandRomanswhenitwasfirstcompleted.Itsuitsthe“Dairyman’sdaughter”aswellasPersis,orTryphena,orTryphosa,-andtheEnglishPeeraswellastheconvertedAfricanatSierraLeone. It is still the firstbookwhich fits thechild’smindwhenhebegins to learn religion, and the last to which the oldman clings as he leaves theworld.2Inshort,itsuitsallages,ranks,climates,minds,conditions.Itistheonebookwhichsuitstheworld.

Nowhowshallweaccountforthissingularfact?Whatsatisfactoryexplanationcanwegive? There is only one account and explanation.-The Bible was written by Divineinspiration.Itisthebookoftheworld,becauseHeinspireditwhoformedtheworld,-whomadeallnationsofoneblood,-andknowsman’scommonnature.It isthebookforeveryheart,becauseHedictateditwhoaloneknowsallhearts,andwhatallheartsrequire.ItisthebookofGod.

(f)Last,butnot least, it is agreat fact that theBiblehashadamost extraordinaryeffectontheconditionofthosenationsinwhichithasbeenknown,taught,andread.

Iinviteanyhonest-mindedreadertolookatamapoftheworld,andseewhatastorythatmaptells.Whicharethecountriesonthefaceoftheglobeatthismomentwherethere is the greatest amount of idolatry, or cruelty, or tyranny, or impurity, ormisgovernment, ordisregardof life and liberty and truth? Precisely those countrieswheretheBibleisnotknown.-WhicharetheChristiancountries,so-called,wherethegreatestquantityofignorance,superstition,andcorruption,istobefoundatthisverymoment? The countries in which the Bible is a forbidden or neglected book, suchcountries as Spain and the South American States.-Which are the countries whereliberty,andpublicandprivatemoralityhaveattainedthehighestpitch?ThecountrieswheretheBibleisfreetoall,likeEngland,Scotland,Germany,andtheUnitedStates.Yes!whenyouknowhowanationdealswiththeBible,youmaygenerallyknowwhatanationis.

Butthis isnotall.Letus looknearerhome.Whicharethecitiesonearthwherethefewestsoldiersandpolicearerequiredtokeeporder?London,Manchester,Liverpool,New York, Philadelphia,-cities where Bibles abound. -Which are the countries in

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Europewhere there are the fewestmurders and illegitimate births? The Protestantcountries,wheretheBibleisfreelyread.-WhicharetheChurchesandreligiousbodieson earth which are producing the greatest results by spreading light and dispellingdarkness? Those whichmakemuch of the Bible, and teach and preach it as God’sWord.TheRomanist,theNeologian,theSocinian,thedeist,thesceptic,orthefriendsof mere secular teaching, have never yet shown us one Sierra Leone, one NewZealand, one Tinnevelly, as the fruit of their principles. We only can do that whohonourtheBibleandreverenceitasGod’sWord.Letthisfactalsoberemembered.HethatdeniestheDivineinspirationoftheBible,lethimexplainthisfactifhecan.3

IplacethesesixfactsabouttheBiblebeforemyreaders,andIask themtoconsiderthemwell. Take themall six together, treat them fairly, and look at themhonestly.Uponanyotherprinciplethanthatofdivineinspiration,thosesixfactsappeartomeinexplicableandunaccountable.HereisabookwrittenbyasuccessionofJews, inalittle corner of the world, which positively stands alone. Not only were its writersisolatedandcutoff inapeculiarmanner fromothernations,but theybelongedtoapeoplewhohaveneverproducedanyotherhookofnoteexcepttheBible!Thereisnottheslightestproofthat,unassistedandlefttothemselves,theywerecapableofwritinganything remarkable, like the Greeks and Romans. Yet these men have given theworldavolumewhichfordepth,unity,sublimity,accuracy,suitablenesstothewantsofman,andpowerofinfluencingitsreaders,isperfectlyunrivalled.Howcanthisbeexplained?Howcan itbeaccounted for?Tomymind there isonlyoneanswer.Thewritersof theBibleweredivinelyhelpedandqualified for theworkwhich theydid.ThebookwhichtheyhavegiventouswaswrittenbyinspirationofGod.4

Formyownpart,Ibelievethatindealingwithsceptics,andunbelievers,andenemiesoftheBible,Christiansaretooapttostandonlyonthedefensive.Theyaretoooftencontent with answering this or that little objection, or discussing this or that littledifficulty, which is picked out of Scripture and thrown in their teeth. I believe weought to act on the aggressive far more than we do, and to press home on theadversariesofinspirationtheenormousdifficultiesoftheirownposition.Wehavearighttoaskthem,howcantheypossiblyexplaintheoriginandnatureoftheBible,iftheywillnot allow that it is ofDivine authority?Wehave a right to say,-“Here is abookwhichnotonlycourts inquirybutdemands investigation.Wechallengeyou totellushowthatBookwaswritten.”-Howcantheyaccount for thisBookstandingsoentirelyalone,andfornothinghavingeverbeenwrittenequaltoit,likeit,nearit,orfittobecomparedwithitforaminute?Idefythemtogiveanyrationalreplyontheirownprinciples.Onourprincipleswecan.Totellusthatman’sunassistedmindcouldhavewrittentheBibleissimplyridiculous.Itisworsethanridiculousitistheheightofcredulity.Inshort,thedifficultiesofunbeliefarefargreaterthanthedifficultiesoffaith.Nodoubttherearethings“hardtobeunderstood”ifweaccepttheScripturesasGod’sWord.But,afterall,theyarenothingcomparedtothehardthingswhichriseupinourway,anddemandsolutionifweoncedenyinspiration.Thereisnoalternative.

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Menmusteitherbelievethingswhicharegrosslyimprobable,orelsetheymustacceptthegreatgeneraltruththattheBibleistheinspiredWordofGod.

II. The second thingwhich I propose to consider is theextent towhich the Bible isinspired.Assuming,asageneraltruth,thattheBibleisgivenbyDivineinspiration,IwishtoexaminehowfarandtowhatdegreeitswritersreceivedDivinehelp.Inshort,whatisitexactlythatwemeanwhenwetalkoftheScripturesas“theWordofGod”?

Thisis,nodoubt,adifficultquestion,andoneaboutwhichthebestChristiansarenotentirely of one mind. The plain truth is that inspiration is amiracle; and, like allmiracles, there is much about it which we cannot fully understand.-We must notconfounditwithintellectualpower,suchasgreatpoetsandauthorspossess.TotalkofShakespeareandMiltonandByronbeinginspired,likeMosesandSt.Paul,istomymindalmostprofane.-NormustweconfounditwiththegiftsandgracesbestowedontheearlyChristiansintheprimitiveChurch.AlltheApostleswereenabledtopreachandworkmiracles,butnotallwere inspired towrite.-Wemust rather regard it asaspecialsupernaturalgift,bestowedonaboutthirtypeopleoutofmankind,inordertoqualify them for the special business of writing the Scriptures; and we must becontenttoallowthat,likeeverythingmiraculous,wecannotentirelyexplainit,thoughwe can believe it. A miracle would not be a miracle, if it could be explained. Thatmiracles are possible, I do not stop to prove here. I never trouble myself on thatsubject until those who denymiracles have fairly grappled with the great fact thatChristroseagainfromthedead.Ifirmlybelievethatmiraclesarepossible,andhavebeenwrought; andamonggreatmiracles Iplace the fact thatmenwere inspiredbyGod to write the Bible. Inspiration, therefore, being a miracle, I frankly allow thattherearedifficultiesaboutitwhichatpresentIcannotfullysolve.

The exact manner in which the minds of the inspired writers of Scripture workedwhentheywrote,Idonotpretendtoexplain.Verylikelytheycouldnothaveexplainedit themselves. I do not admit for amoment that theyweremeremachines holdingpens, and, like type-setters in a printing-office, did not understand what they weredoing.Iabhorthe“mechanical”theoryofinspiration.IdisliketheideathatmenlikeMosesandSt.Paulwerenobetterthanorganpipes,employedbytheHolyGhost,orignorant secretaries or amanuenses who wrote by dictation what they did notunderstand.Iadmitnothingofthekind.IbelievethatinsomemarvellousmannertheHolyGhostmadeuseof the reason, thememory, the intellect, the style of thought,andthepeculiarmentaltemperamentofeachwriteroftheScriptures.ButhowandinwhatmannerthiswasdoneIcannomoreexplainthanIcantheunionoftwonatures,Godandman,inthepersonofourblessedLordJesusChrist.IonlyknowthatthereisbothaDivineandahumanelementintheBible,andthatwhilethemenwhowroteitwerereallyandtrulymen,thebookthattheywroteandhandeddowntous isreallyandtrulytheWordofGod.Iknowtheresult,butIdonotunderstandtheprocess.Theresult is, that the Bible is thewrittenWord of God; but I can nomore explain the

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processthanIcanexplainhowthewaterbecamewineatCana,orhowfiveloavesfedfivethousandmen,orhowawordraisedLazarusfromthedead.Idonotpretendtoexplain miracles, and I do not pretend to explain fully the miraculous gift ofinspiration. The position I take up is that, while the Bible-writers were not“machines,”assomesneeringlysay,theyonlywrotewhatGodtaughtthemtowrite.TheHolyGhostputintotheirmindsthoughtsandideas,andthenguidedtheirpensinwriting them.Whenyouread theBibleyouarenot reading theunaided, self-taughtcomposition of erring men like ourselves, but thoughts and words which weresuggested by the eternal God. Themenwhowere employed to indite the Scripturespakenotofthemselves.They“spakeastheyweremovedbytheHolyGhost.”(2Peteri.21.)HethatholdsaBible inhishandshouldknowthatheholds“not thewordofmanbutofGod.”(1Thess.ii.13.)ConcerningthepreciseextenttowhichtheBibleisinspired, I freelyadmit thatChristiansdifferwidely.Someof theviewsput forthonthesubjectappeartomeerroneousintheextreme.Ishallnotshrinkfromgivingmyownopinionand statingmy reasons formaintaining it. Inmatters like these I darenot call any man master. Painful as it is to disagree with able and gifted men onreligiousquestions,Idarenottakeupviewsof inspirationwhichmyheadandhearttellmeareunsound,howeverhighandhonoured thenamesof thosewhomaintainthem.IbelieveinmyconsciencethatlowanddefectiveviewsofthesubjectaredoingimmensedamagetothecauseofChristintheselastdays.

Somehold that some of the books of Scripture are not inspired at all, and have nomore authority or claim to our reverence than the writings of any ordinary man.Others who do not go so far as this, and allow that all the books in the Bible areinspired, maintain that inspiration was only partial, and that there are portions inalmosteverybookwhichareuninspired.-Othersholdthatinspirationmeansnothingmore than general superintendence and direction, and that, while the Bible writerswere miraculously preserved from making mistakes in great things and mattersnecessary to salvation, in things indifferent they were left to their own unassistedfaculties,likeanyotherwriters.-SomeholdthatalltheideasintheBibleweregivenbyinspiration,butnotthewordsandlanguageinwhichtheyareclothed,-thoughhowtoseparate ideas fromwords it is rather hard to understand!-Some, finally, allow thethorough inspiration of all the Bible, and yet maintain that it was possible for thewriters tomakeoccasionalmistakes in their statements, and that suchmistakes doexistatthisday.

FromalltheseviewsItotallyandentirelydissent.Theyallappeartomemoreorlessdefective, below the truth, dangerous in their tendency, and open to grave andinsuperableobjections.TheviewwhichImaintainisthateverybook,andchapter,andverse,andsyllableoftheBiblewasoriginallygivenbyinspirationofGod.Iholdthatnotonlythesubstanceof theBible,but its language,-notonlythe ideasof theBible,butitswords;notonlycertainpartsoftheBible,buteverychapterofthebook,-thatallandeachareofDivineauthority.IholdthattheScripturenotonlycontainstheWord

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ofGod,but is theWordofGod. I believe thenarratives and statements ofGenesis,andthecataloguesinChronicles,werejustastrulywrittenbyinspirationastheActsoftheApostles.IbelieveEzra’saccountofthenine-and-twentyknives,andSt.Paul’smessage about the cloak and parchments, were as much written under Divinedirectionasthe20thofExodus,the17thofJohn,orthe8thofRomans.Idonotsay,be it remembered, that all these parts of the Bible are of equal importance to oursouls.Nothingofthekind!ButIdosaytheywereallequallygivenbyinspiration.5

InmakingthisstatementIaskthereadernottomisunderstandmymeaning.Idonotforget that the Old Testament was written in Hebrew and the New Testament inGreek.Theinspirationofeveryword,forwhichIcontend,istheinspirationofeveryoriginalHebrewandGreekword,as theBiblewriters firstwrote itdown.Istandupfornothingmoreandnothinglessthanthis.Ilaynoclaimtotheinspirationofeveryword in the various versions and translations of God’s Word. So far as thosetranslations and versions are faithfully and correctly done, so far they are of equalauthoritywith the original Hebrew and Greek. We have reason to thank God thatmanyofthetranslationsare, inthemain, faithfulandaccurate.AtanyrateourownEnglish Bible, if not perfect, is so far correct, that in reading it we have a right tobelievethatwearereadinginourowntonguenotthewordofman;butofGod.

Now the view for which I contend,-that every word of the Bible is inspired,-is notacceptedbymanygoodChristians, and is bitterly opposed inmanyquarters. I shallthereforementionafewreasonswhyitappearstometheonlysafeandtenableviewwhichcanbeadopted,andtheonlyonewhichisfreefrominnumerableobjections.IfI err inmaintaining it Ihave the comfort, at any rate, of erring in good company. Ionly takeup the samegroundwhich almost all theFathers occupied;whichBishopJewell, and Hooker, and Owen, took up long ago; and which Chalmers, RobertHaldane,Gaussen,BishopWordsworth,M’Caul,Burgon, andArchdeaconLeeof theIrishChurch,haveablydefendedinmoderndays.Iknow,however,thatmen’smindsarevariouslyconstituted.Argumentsandreasonswhichappearweighty tosomeareofnoweightwithothers.Ishallcontentmyselfwithsettingdowninorderthereasonswhichsatisfyme.

(a)Foronething,IcannotseehowtheBiblecanbeaperfectruleoffaithandpracticeifitisnotfullyinspired,andifitcontainsanyflawsandimperfections.IftheBibleisanything at all it is the statute-book of God’s kingdom, the code of laws andregulationsbywhichthesubjectsofthatkingdomaretolive,-theregister-deedofthetermsonwhichtheyhavepeacenowandshallhavegloryhereafter.Now,whyarewetosupposethatsuchabookwillbelooselyandimperfectlydrawnup,anymorethanlegaldeeds are drawnupon earth?Every lawyer can tell us that in legal deeds andstatuteseverywordisofimportance,andthatproperty,life,ordeathmayoften turnonasingleword.Thinkof theconfusion thatwouldensue ifwills,and settlements,and conveyances, and partnership-deeds, and leases, and agreements, and acts of

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parliament were not carefully drawn up and carefully interpreted, and every wordalloweditsdueweight.Wherewouldbetheuseofsuchdocumentsifparticularwordswentfornothing,andeveryonehadarighttoadd,ortakeaway,oralter,ordenythevalidityofwords,orerasewordsathisowndiscretion?Atthisratewemightaswelllayasideourlegaldocumentsaltogether.Surelywehavearighttoexpectthatinthebook which contains our title-deeds for eternity every word will be inspired, andnothing imperfectadmitted. IfGod’s statute-book isnot inspired, andeveryword isnotofDivineauthority,God’ssubjectsareleftinapitiablestate.Iseemuchinthis.

(b)Foranother thing, if theBible isnot fully inspiredandcontains imperfections, Icannotunderstand the languagewhich is frequently used about it in its ownpages.Such expressions as “The oracles of God;”-“He saith;”-“God saith”-“the Holy GhostspakebyEsaiastheprophet;”“theHolyGhostsaith,“TodayifyewillhearHisvoice,”-would appear to me inexplicable and extravagant if applied to a book containingoccasional blemishes, defects, andmistakes. (Acts vii. 38; Rom. iii. 2; Heb. v. 12; 1Peteriv.11;Ephes.iv.8;Heb.i.8;Actsxxviii.25;Heb.iii.7;x.15;Rom.ix.25.)OncegrantthateverywordofScriptureisinspired,andIseeanadmirableproprietyinthelanguage. I cannot understand “the Holy Ghost” making a mistake, or an “oracle”containinganythingdefective!IfanymanrepliesthattheHolyGhostdidnotalwaysspeakbyIsaiah,IwillaskhimwhoistodecidewhenHedidandwhenHedidnot?Iseemuchinthis.

(c)Foranother thing, the theory that theBiblewasnotgivenby inspirationofGod,appears tome utterlyat variancewith several quotations from the Old TestamentwhichIfindintheNew.Ialludetothosequotationsinwhichthewholeforceofthepassageturnsononesingleword,andonceevenontheuseofthesingularinsteadofthe plural number. Take, for instance, such quotations as “The Lord said unto myLord.” (Matt.xxii.44). “Isaid,Yearegods.” (Johnx.34.) “ToAbrahamandhisseedwerethepromisesmade.Hesaithnot,Andtoseeds,asofmany;butasofone,Andtothy seed, which is Christ.” (Gal. iii. 16.)-“He is not ashamed to call them brethren,saying,IwilldeclareThynameuntomybrethren.”(Heb.ii.11,12.)-Ineveryonethesecasesthewholepointofthequotationliesinasingleword.6Butifthisisso,itishardtoseeonwhatprinciplewecandenytheinspirationofallthewordsofScripture.Atany rate, those who deny verbal inspiration will find it difficult to show us whichwordsare inspiredandwhicharenot.Who is todrawthe line,andwhere is it tobedrawn?Iseemuchinthis.

(d)Foranotherthing, if thewordsofScripturearenotall inspired, thevalueof theBibleasaweaponincontroversyisgreatlydamaged,ifnotentirelytakenaway.WhodoesnotknowthatinarguingwithJews,Arians,orSocinians,thewholepointofthetextswequote against themoften lies in a singleword?What arewe to reply if anadversary asserts that the special word of some text, on which we ground anargument, is amistake of thewriter, and therefore of no authority? Tomymind it

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appearsthattheobjectionwouldbefatal.Itisuselesstoquotetextsifweonceadmitthatnotall thewordsofwhichtheyarecomposedweregivenby inspiration.Unlessthere is some certain standard to appeal to we may as well hold our tongues.Argumentislabourinvainifourmouthsaretobestoppedbytheretort,“Thattextisnotinspired.”Iseemuchinthis.

(e) For another thing, to give up verbal inspiration appears to me to destroy theusefulnessoftheBibleasaninstrumentofpublicpreachingandinstruction.Whereistheuseofchoosingatextandmakingitthesubjectofapulpitaddress, ifwedonotbelieve that everywordof the text is inspired?Once let ourhearers getholdof theidea that thewriters of the Bible couldmakemistakes in the particularwords theyused,andtheywillcarelittleforanyreproofs,orexhortations,orremarkswhicharebasedonwords.-“Howdoyouknow,”theymightaskus,“thatthisword,aboutwhichyoumadesuchadoyesterday,wasgivenbytheHolyGhost?HowdoyouknowthatSt.Paul,orSt.Peter,orSt.Johndidnotmakeamistake,andusethewrongword?Thatthey couldmakemistakesaboutwordsyouyourself allow.”-Iknownotwhatothersmaythink.Formyself,Icouldgivenoanswer.Iseemuchinthis.

(f)Last,butnotleast,thedenialofverbalinspirationappearstometodestroyagreatpartof theusefulnessof theBibleasasourceof comfortand instruction inprivatereading.Where is the true Christian student of the Bible who does not know thatwords,particularwords,affordalargeportionofthebenefitwhichhederivesfromhisdailyreading?Howmuchthevalueofmanyacherishedtextdependsonsomesinglephrase,orthenumberofasubstantive,orthetenseofaverb?Alas!therewouldbeanendofallthisifweonceconcedethateachwordisnotinspired;andthat,foranythingweknow,somemuch lovedfavouritesubstantive,orverb,orpronoun,oradverb,oradjective,was anApostle’smistake, and theword ofman, not ofGod!What othersmight think I know not. Formyself, I should be tempted to lay asidemy Bible indespair,andbecomeofallmenmostmiserable.Iseemuchinthis.

Now, I freely grant thatmanyexcellentChristians think that the view Imaintain isopentoseriousobjections.ThattheBible,generallyspeaking,isgivenbyinspiration,they firmlymaintain. But they shrink frommaintaining that inspiration extends toeverywordofScripture. Iamsorry todiffer fromtheseworthypeople.ButIcannotseetheweightandforceoftheirobjections.Fairlyandhonestlyexamined,theyfailtocarryconvictiontomymind.

(a)SomeobjectthatthereareoccasionalstatementsintheBiblewhichcontradictthefactsofhistory.Aretheseallverballyinspired?-Myansweristhatitisfarmoreeasytoassertthisthantoproveit.Thereisnothingofwhichwehavesofewtrustworthyremains as very ancient history, and if ancient uninspired history andBible historyseemtodisagree, it is generally safer andwiser tobelieve thatBiblehistory is rightandotherhistorywrong.Atanyrate,itisasingularfactthatallrecentresearchesin

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Assyria,Babylon,Palestine,andEgypt,showanextraordinarytendencytoconfirmtheperfectaccuracyoftheWordofGod.ThelamentedMr.Smith’sdiscoveriesatBabylonare a remarkable example of what I mean. There are buried evidences which Godseemstokeepinreservefortheselastdays.IfBiblehistoryandotherhistoriescannotbemadetoagreeatpresent,itissafesttowait.

(b)SomeobjectthatthereareoccasionalstatementsintheBiblewhichcontradictthefactsofnaturalscience.Aretheseallinspired?-Myanswerisagain,thatitisfarmoreeasy to assert this than to prove it. The Biblewas notwritten to teach a system ofgeology, botany, or astronomy, or a history of birds, insects, and animals, and onmatters touching these subjects it wisely uses popular language, such as commonpeoplecanunderstand.NoonethinksofsayingthattheAstronomerRoyalcontradictssciencebecausehespeaksofthesun’s“risingandsetting.”IftheBiblesaidanywherethat the earth was a flat surface,-or that it was a fixed globe round which the sunrevolved,-or that it never existed in any state beforeAdam andEve,-theremight besomethingintheobjection.Butitneverdoesso.Itspeaksofscientificsubjectsastheyappear.Butitneverflatlycontradictsscience.7

(c) Some object that there are occasional statements in the Bible which aremonstrous, absurd, and incredible. Are they really obliged to believe that Eve wastemptedbythedevilintheformofaserpent,-thatNoahwassavedinanark,-thattheIsraelites crossed theRedSeabetween twowalls ofwater,-thatBalaam’s ass spoke,andthatJonahactuallywentintothewhale’sbelly?Areallthesestatementsinspired?-MyansweristhatChrist’sapostlesspeakofthesethingsashistoricalfacts,andweremore likely to know the truth about them than we are. After all, do we believe inmiraclesornot?DowebelievethatChristHimselfrosefromthedead?Letussticktothatonegrandmiraclefirst,anddisproveitifwecan.Ifwedobelieveit,itisfoolishtoobjecttothingsbecausetheyaremiraculous.

(d)SomeobjectthattherearethingsmentionedoccasionallyintheBiblewhicharesotrifling that theyareunworthy tobecalled inspired.Theypoint toSt.Paul’swritingabouthiscloak,andbooks,andparchments,andaskifwereallythinkthattheApostlewroteaboutsuch littlemattersby inspirationofGod?-Ianswer that the least thingsaffectinganyofGod’schildrenarenottoosmallforthenoticeofHimwho“numbersthehairsofourheads.”Thereare excellent andedifying lessons tobe learned fromthecloakandtheparchments,asRobertHaldanehasshownmostconvincingly,inhisworkontheEvidencesofDivineRevelation.Afterall,manknowsvery littlewhat isgreatandwhatissmall inGod’ssight.ThehistoryofNimrod“themightyhunter” isdispatched in three verses ofGenesis, and thehistory of a Syriandwelling in tents,calledAbraham,fillsupnolessthanfourteenchapters.Themicroscopeappliedtothebookofnature,canshowusGod’shand in the least lichenthatgrowsonthe topofScawfellaswellasinthecedarofLebanon.Theveriesttrifles,astheyseemtousinthe Book of Scripture,may turn out to bemost striking confirmations of its truth.

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Paleyhas shown this admirably inhis “HoraePaulinae,” andProfessorBlunt inhis“UndesignedCoincidences.”

(e) Some object that there are grave discrepancies in some of the Bible histories,especiallyinthefourGospels,whichcannotbemadetoharmonizeandagree.Arethewords, they ask, all inspired in these cases?Have the writersmade nomistakes?-Ianswer that the number of these discrepancies is grossly exaggerated, and that inmanycasestheyareonlyapparent,anddisappearunderthetouchofcommonsense.Even in the hardest of them we should remember, in common fairness, thatcircumstancesareverylikelykeptbackfromuswhichentirelyreconcileeverything,ifweonlyknewthem.Veryofteninthesedayswhentwohonest,veraciousmengiveaseparate account of some long story, their accounts do not quite tally, because onedwells on one part and the other on another. All well-informed students of historyknowthattheprecisedaywhenCharlesIerectedhisstandardatNottingham,intheParliamentarywar,hasnotbeensettledtothishour.

(f)SomeobjectthatJob’sfriends,intheirlongspeeches,saidmanyweakandfoolishthings.Wereall theirwords inspired?-Anobjection like this arises froman illogicalandconfusedideaofwhat inspirationmeans.ThebookofJobcontainsanhistoricalaccount of awonderful part of the old patriarch’s history, and a report both of hisspeeches and of those of his friends. But we are nowhere told that either Job orEliphazandhiscompanionsspokeallthattheyspokebytheHolyGhost.Thewriterofthe book of Job was thoroughly inspired to record all they said. But whether theyspokerightlyorwronglyistobedecidedbythegeneralteachingofScripture.NoonewouldsaythatSt.Peterwasinspiredwhenhesaid,“IknownottheMan,”intheHighPriest’spalace.But thewriterof theGospelwas inspiredwhenhewrote itdownforourlearning.IntheActsoftheApostlestheletterofClaudiusLysiaswascertainlynotwritten by inspiration, and Gamaliel, and the town clerk of Ephesus and Tertulluswere not inspired when theymade their speeches. But it is equally certain that St.Lukewasinspiredtowritethemdownandrecordtheminhisbook.

(g)SomeobjectthatSt.Paul, inthe7thchapterofthe1stepistle to theCorinthians,whengivingcertainadvicetotheCorinthianChurch,saysatonetime,“NotI,buttheLord,”andatanother,“I,nottheLord.”Andtheyask,Doesnotthisshowthatinpartofhisadvicehewasnotinspired?-Ianswer,Notatall.Acarefulstudyofthechapterwill show that when the Apostle says “Not I, but the Lord,” he lays down someprinciplesonwhichtheLordhadspokenalready;andwhenhesays“I,nottheLord,”hegivesadviceonsomepointaboutwhichtherehadbeennorevelationhitherto.ButthereisnottheslightestproofthatheisnotwritingallthewaythroughunderdirectinspirationofGod.

(h)SomeobjectthattherearemanyvariousreadingsofthewordsofScripture,andthatwecannot,therefore,feelsurethatwehavetheoriginalinspiredWordofGod.I

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answer that the various readings, when fairly examined, will prove to be absurdlyexaggeratedinnumberandimportance.Dr.Kennicott,Bengel,andothershaveprovedthislongago.Nodoubtwemayhavelostafewoftheoriginalwords.Wehavenorighttoexpectinfallibilityintranscribersandcopyists,beforetheinventionofprinting.ButthereisnotasingledoctrineinScripturewhichwouldbeaffectedoralteredifallthevariousreadingswereallowed,andall thedisputedordoubtfulwordswereomitted.ConsideringhowmanyhandstheBiblepassedthroughbeforeprintingwasinvented,andwhothetranscriberswere, it ismarvellousthatthevariousreadingsareso few!The fact that about the immensemajority of all the words in the old Hebrew andGreek Scriptures there is no doubt at all, is little short of a miracle, and demandsmuchthanksgivingtoGod.Onethingisverycertain.Thereisnoancientbookwhichhasbeenhandeddowntouswithsogooda textand so fewvarious readingsas theBible.

(i)Finally, someobject that occasional parts of theBible are takenout, copied, andextracted from the writings of uninspired men, such as historical chronicles, andpedigrees, and lists of names. Are all these to be regarded as inspired?-I reply thatthereseemsnoreasonwhytheHolyGhostshouldnotdirecttheBiblewriterstousematerialsmadereadytotheirhands,aswellasfactswhichtheyhadseenthemselves,and by so directing them, invested such words as they used with Divine authority.WhenSt.Paulquotedlinesfromheathenpoetshedidnotmeanustoregardthemasinspired.Buthewas taughtbyGod to clothehis ideas in thewordswhich theyhadused,and by so doing he very likely obtained a favourable reading frommany.Andwhenwe read suchquotations, or read lists ofnames taken fromJewish chroniclesandregisters,weneednotdoubtthatBiblewritersweretaughttousesuchmaterialsbyinspirationofGod.

Ileavetheobjectionstoverbalinspirationatthispoint,andwilldetainmyreadersnolongerwiththem.Iwillnotpretendtodenythatthesubjecthasitsdifficulties,whichwillprobablyneverbecompletelysolved.Icannotperhapsclearupsuchdifficultiesasthemention of “Jeremy the prophet” in Matthew xxvii., or reconcile the third andsixthhourinSt.John’sandSt.Mark’saccountofthecrucifixion,orexplainStephen’saccountofJacob’sburialintheseventhchapterofActs,tomyownentiresatisfaction.ButIhavenodoubtthesedifficultiescanbeexplained,andperhapswillbesomeday.These things do not move me. I expect difficulties in such a deep and miraculousmatteras inspiration,whichIhavenoteyes tosee through. Iamcontent towait. Itwas awise saying of Faraday, that “there aremany questions aboutwhich it is thehighestphilosophytokeepourmindsinastateofjudicioussuspense.”Itshouldbeasettledrulewithusnevertogiveupagreatprinciple,whenwehavegotholdofit,onaccount of difficulties. Time oftenmakes things clear which at first look dark. Theviewof inspirationwhichpresents tomyownmindthe fewestdifficulties, is that inwhich all the words of Scripture, as well as the thoughts, are regarded as inspired.HereItakemystand.

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Remember what I have just said. Never give up a great principle in theology onaccountofdifficulties.Waitpatiently,andthedifficultiesmayallmeltaway.Letthatbe an axiom in your mind. Suffer me to mention an illustration of what I mean.Persons who are conversant with astronomy know that before the discovery of theplanet Neptune there were difficulties which greatly troubled the most scientificastronomers, respecting certain aberrations of the planetUranus. These aberrationspuzzled the minds of astronomers; and some of them suggested that they mightpossiblyprovethewholeNewtoniansystemtobeuntrue.Butjustatthattimeawell-knownFrenchastronomer, namedLeverrier, readbefore theAcademyof Science atParis a paper, in which he laid down this great axiom, that it did not become ascientificmantogiveupaprinciplebecauseofdifficultieswhichapparentlycouldnotbeexplained.Hesaidineffect,“WecannotexplaintheaberrationsofUranusnow;butwemaybesurethattheNewtoniansystemwillbeprovedtoberight,soonerorlater.Somethingmaybediscoveredonedaywhichwillprovethattheseaberrationsmaybeaccountedfor,andyettheNewtoniansystemremaintrueandunshaken.”Afewyearsafter,theanxiouseyesofastronomersdiscoveredthelastgreatplanet,Neptune.ThisplanetwasshowntobethetruecauseofalltheaberrationsofUranus;andwhattheFrenchastronomerhadlaiddownasaprincipleinsciencewasprovedtobewiseandtrue.Theapplicationof theanecdote isobvious.Letusbewareofgivingupanyfirstprinciple in theology. Let us not give up the great principle of plenary verbalinspirationbecauseofapparentdifficulties.Thedaymaycomewhentheywillallbesolved. In themeantime wemay rest assured that the difficulties which beset anyothertheoryofinspirationaretenfoldgreaterthananywhichbesetourown.

Letmenowconcludethispaperwithafewwordsofplainapplication.Letuslayasidealldeepdiscussionofhardthingsaboutthemannerof inspiration.Letustake it forgrantedthat,insomewayorother,whetherwecanexplainitornot,weholdtheBibletobetheWordofGod.Letusstartfromthispoint.Letmyreadersgivemeahearing,whileIsayafewthingswhichappeartometodeservetheirattention.

1.IstheBibletheWordofGod?Thenmindthatyoudonotneglectit.Readit!readit!Begintoreaditthisveryday.WhatgreaterinsulttoGodcanamanbeguiltyofthantorefusetoreadtheletterGodsendshimfromheaven?Oh,besure, ifyouwillnotreadyourBible,youareinfearfuldangeroflosingyoursoul!

Youareindanger,becauseGodwillreckonwithyouforyourneglectoftheBibleinthedayofjudgment.Youwillhavetogiveaccountofyouruseoftime,strength,andmoney;andyouwillalsohavetogiveaccountofyouruseoftheWord.Youwillnotstand at that bar on the same level, in point of responsibility, with the dweller incentralAfrica,whoneverheardoftheBible.Oh,no!Towhommuchisgiven,ofthemmuch will be required. Of all men’s buried talents, none will weigh them down soheavily as a neglectedBible.As you dealwith theBible, soGodwill dealwith your

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soul.Willyounotrepentandturnoveranewleafinlife,andreadyourBible?

Youareindanger,becausethereisnodegreeoferrorinreligionintowhichyoumaynotfall.YouareatthemercyofthefirstcleverJesuit,Mormonite,Socinian,Turk,orJew,whomayhappentomeetyou.AlandofunwalledvillagesisnotmoredefencelessagainstanenemythanamanwhoneglectshisBible.Youmaygoontumblingfromonestepofdelusiontoanother, till at lengthyouare landed in thepitofhell. I sayoncemore,WillyounotrepentandreadyourBible?

Youareindanger,becausethereisnotasinglereasonableexcuseyoucanallegeforneglectingtheBible.Youhavenotimetoreaditforsooth!Butyoucanmaketimeforeating, drinking, sleeping, getting money and spending money, and perhaps fornewspaperreadingandsmoking.YoumighteasilymaketimetoreadtheWord.Alas,itisnotwantoftime,butwasteoftimethatruinssouls!-Youfindittootroublesometoread, forsooth!Youhadbettersayatonce it is toomuchtrouble togo toheaven,andyouarecontenttogotohell.Trulytheseexcusesareliketherubbishroundthewalls of Jerusalem in Nehemiah’s days. They would all soon disappear if, like theJews,youhad“amindtowork.”Isayforthelasttime,WillyounotrepentandreadyourBible?

Believeme,believeme,theBibleitselfisthebestwitnessofitsowninspiration.Themenwhoquibbleandmakedifficultiesaboutinspirationare toooften theverymenwhonever read theScriptures at all. Thedarkness andhardness andobscurity theyprofesstocomplainofarefarmoreoftenintheirownheartsthaninthebook.Oh,bepersuaded!Takeitupandbegintoread.

2.IstheBibletheWordofGod?Thenbesureyoualwaysreaditwithdeepreverence.Saytoyoursoul,wheneveryouopentheBible,“Omysoul, thouartgoing toreadamessagefromGod.”Thesentencesofjudges,andthespeechesofkings,arereceivedwithaweandrespect.HowmuchmorereverenceisduetothewordsoftheJudgeofjudgesandKingofkings!Avoid,asyouwouldcursingandswearing, that irreverenthabit of mind into which somemodern divines have unhappily fallen, in speakingabout the Bible. They handle the contents of the holy book as carelessly anddisrespectfullyasifthewritersweresuchmenasthemselves.Theymakeonethinkofa child composingabook to expose the fancied ignoranceofhisown father,-orof apardonedmurderer criticising the handwriting and style of his own reprieve. EnterratherintothespiritofMosesonMountHoreb:“Putthyshoesfromoffthyfeet;theplacewhereonthoustandestisholyground.”

3.IstheBibletheWordofGod?Thenbesureyouneverreaditwithoutferventprayerfor thehelpand teachingof theHolySpirit.Here is the rockonwhichmanymakeshipwreck. They do not ask for wisdom and instruction, and so they find the Bibledark,andcarrynothingawayfromit.YoushouldprayfortheSpirittoguideyouinto

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all truth.YoushouldbegtheLordJesusChrist to“openyourunderstanding,”asHedid thatofHisdisciples.TheLordGod, bywhose inspiration the bookwaswritten,keepsthekeysofthebook,andalonecanenableyoutounderstanditprofitably.Ninetimes over in one Psalm does David cry, “Teachme.” Five times over, in the samePsalm,doeshesay, “Givemeunderstanding.”Well saysJohnOwen,DeanofChristChurch,Oxford,“ThereisasacredlightintheWord:butthereisacoveringandveilontheeyesofmen,sothattheycannotbeholditaright.Now,theremovalofthisveilisthepeculiarworkoftheHolySpirit.”HumbleprayerwillthrowmorelightonyourBiblethanPoole,orHenry,orScott,orBurkitt,orBengel,orAlford,orWordsworth,orBarnes,orEllicott,orLightfoot,oranycommentarythateverwaswritten.

TheBibleisalargebookorasmallone,adarkorabrightone,accordingtothespiritinwhichmenreadit.Intellectalonewilldonothingwithit.Wranglersandfirst-classmenwill not understand it unless their hearts are right aswell as their heads. Thehighest critical and grammatical knowledge will find it a sealed book without theteachingof theHolyGhost. Its contentsareoften “hid to thewiseandprudentandrevealed to babes.” Remember this, and say always, when you open your Bible, “OGod,forChrist’ssake,givemetheteachingoftheSpirit.”

4.Finally,istheBibletheWordofGod?ThenletusallresolvefromthisdayforwardtoprizetheBiblemore.Letusnotfearbeingidolatersofthisblessedbook.Menmayeasilymake an idol of theChurch, ofministers, of sacraments, or of intellect.MencannotmakeanidoloftheWord.Letusregardallwhowoulddamagetheauthorityofthe Bible, or impugn its credit, as spiritual robbers. We are travelling through awilderness:theyrobusofouronlyguide.Wearevoyagingoverastormysea:theyrobusofouronlycompass.Wearetoilingoverawearyroad:theypluckourstaffoutofourhands.AndwhatdothesespiritualrobbersgiveusinplaceoftheBible?Whatdothey offer as a safer guide and better provision for our souls? Nothing! absolutelynothing!Bigswellingwords!Emptypromisesofnewlight!Highsoundingjargon;butnothingsubstantialandreal!Theywouldfaintakefromusthebreadoflife,andtheydonotgiveusinitsplacesomuchasastone.Letusturnadeafeartothem.LetusfirmlygraspandprizetheBiblemoreandmore,themoreitisassaulted.

Letushear the conclusionof thewholematter;Godhas givenus theBible to be alighttoguideustoeverlastinglife.Letusnotneglectthispreciousgift.Letusreaditdiligently,walkinitslight,andweshallbesaved.

The followingquotationsabout inspiration, fromtheworksof four eminentBritishtheologians, I venture to think deserve attentive perusal. They are valuable inthemselves on account of the arguments which they contain. They also supplyabundant proof that the high view of verbal inspiration, which I advocate in thispaper, is no modern invention, but an “old path,” in which many of God’s ablestchildrenhavewalked,andfounditagoodway.

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1.BishopJewell,authorofthe“Apology,”wasunquestionablyoneofthemostlearnedoftheEnglishReformers.Letushearwhathesays:-

“St. Paul, speaking of the Word of God, saith, ‘the whole Scripture is given byinspirationofGod,andisprofitable.’ManythinktheApostle’sspeechishardlytrueofthe whole Scripture,-that all and every part of the Scripture is profitable. Much isspoken of genealogies and pedigrees, of lepers, of sacrificing goats and oxen, etc.Theseseemtohavelittleprofitinthem:tobeidleandvain.Iftheyshowvaininthineeyes,yethathnot theLord set themdown in vain?Thewordsof theLordarepurewords, as the silver tried in a furnace of earth refined seven times. There is nosentence,noclause,noword,nosyllable,noletter,butitiswrittenforthyinstruction:there is not one jot but it is sealed and signed with the blood of the Lamb. Ourimaginations are idle, our thoughts are vain: there is no idleness, no vanity, in theWord of God. Those oxen and goats which were sacrificed teach thee to kill theuncleannessandfilthinessofthineheart:theyteachtheethatthouartguiltyofdeath,whenthylifemustberedeemedbythedeathofsomebeast:theyleadtheetobelievethe forgivenessof sinsbyamoreperfect sacrifice, since itwasnotpossible that theblood of bulls or of goats should take away sins. That leprosy teacheth thee theuncleannessand leprosyof thysoul.Thesegenealogiesandpedigrees leadus to thebirthofourSaviourChrist,sothatthewholeWordofGodispureandholy.Noword,no letter,nosyllable,norpointor tittle thereof,but iswrittenandpreserved for thysake.”-JewellontheHolyScriptures.

2. Richard Hooker, author of the “Ecclesiastical Polity,” is justly respected by allschools of thought in the Church of England as the judiciousHooker.” Let us hearwhathesays:-

“Touching themanner howmen, by the Spirit of Prophecy inHoly Scripture, havespokenandwrittenofthingstocome,wemustunderstandthatastheknowledgeofthattheyspake,solikewisetheutteranceofthattheyknew,camenotbythoseusualand ordinary means whereby we are brought to understand the mysteries of oursalvation,andarewont to instructothers in thesame.Forwhatsoeverweknow,wehaveitbythehandsandministryofmen,wholedusalonglikechildrenfromalettertoasyllable,fromasyllabletoaword,fromawordtoaline,fromalinetoasentence,fromasentencetoaside,andsoturnover.ButGodHimselfwastheirinstructor.HeHimselftaughtthem,partlybydreamsandvisionsinthenight,partlybyrevelationsintheday,takingthemasidefromamongsttheirbrethren,andtalkingwiththemasamanwould talkwithhisneighbours in theway.Thus theybecameacquaintedevenwiththesecretandhiddencounselsofGod;theysawthingswhichthemselveswerenot able to utter, they beheld that whereat men and angels are astonished, theyunderstood in the beginning what should come to pass in the last days. God, wholightenedthustheeyesoftheirunderstanding,givingthemknowledgebyunusualandextraordinarymeans,didalsomiraculouslyHimself frameand fashion theirwords

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andwritings,insomuchthatagreaterdifferencethereseemethnottobebetweenthemanner of their knowledge, than there is between themanner of their speech andours.‘Wehavereceived,’saiththeApostle,`notthespiritoftheworld,buttheSpiritwhich is ofGod, thatwemight know the things that are given to us ofGod:whichthingsalsowespeak,notinwordswhichman’swisdomteacheth,butwhichtheHolyGhostdothteach.’This is thatwhich theProphetsmeanby thosebookswritten fullwithinandwithout;whichbooksweresooftendeliveredthemtoeat,notbecauseGodfed themwith inkandpaper,but to teachus that sooftenasHeemployed them inthisheavenlywork,theyneitherspakenorwroteanywordoftheirown,bututteredsyllablebysyllableastheSpiritputitintheirmouths,nootherwisethantheharporthelutedothgiveasoundaccordingtothedirectionofhishandsthatholdethitandstrikethitwithskill.”-Hooker’sWorks.Vol.iii.pp.537,540.

3. John Owen, Dean of Christ Church, Oxford, was the most learned andargumentativeofthePuritans.Letushearwhathesays:-

“HolymenofGodspakeastheyweremovedbytheHolyGhost.Whenthewordwasthus brought to them it was not left to their own understandings, wisdom,minds,memories,toorder,dispose,andgiveitout;buttheywereborne,actuated,carriedoutbytheHolyGhost,tospeak,deliver,andwriteall that,andnothingbutthat,-toverytittles,-thatwassobroughtuntothem.Theyinventednotwordsthemselves,suitedtothethingstheyhadlearned,butonlyexpressedthewordthat theyreceived.Thoughtheirmindandunderstandingwereusedinthechoiceofwords(whenceariseallthedifferences in theirmannerofexpression),yet theyweresoguided that theirwordswerenottheirown,but immediatelysupplieduntothem.Notonlythedoctrinetheytaughtwasthewordoftruth,-truthitself,-butthewordswherebytheytaughtitwerewords of truth from God Himself. Thus, allowing the contribution of properinstrumentsforthereceptionandrepresentationofwordswhichanswertothemindandtongueoftheProphetsinthecomingofthevoiceofGodtothem,-everyapexofthe written Word is equally divine, and as immediately from God as the voicewherewith,orwhereby,HespaketousintheProphets;andisthereforeaccompaniedwith the same authority in itself and to us.” -Owen on the Divine Original of theScripture.Volxvi.p.305.

4.Dr.Chalmerswasprobablythemostintellectualanddeep-thinkingtheologianthatintellectualScotlandhaseverproduced.Letushearwhathesays:

(a) “The subject-matter of the Bible had to pass through theminds of the selectedProphetsandApostles,andtoissuethenceinlanguageereitcomesforthintheshapeofScriptureupontheworld.Nowitisherethatwemeettheadvocatesofapartialormitigated inspiration, andwouldmake common cause against one and all of them.There is not one theory short, by however so little, of a thorough and perfectinspiration,-thereisnotoneofthembutischargeablewiththeconsequence,thatthe

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subject-matterofrevelationsuffersand isdeteriorated intheclosingfootstepsof itsprogress;andjustbeforeitsettlesintothatultimateposition,whereitstandsforthtoguideandilluminatetheworld.Itexistedpurelyinheaven.Itdescendedpurelyfromheaventoearth.ItwasdepositedpurelybythegreatAgentofrevelationinthemindsoftheApostles.Butthenwearetoldthatwhenbutalittlewayfromthefinallandingplace, then, insteadofbeingcarried forwardpurely to the situationwherealone thegreatpurposeof thewholemovementwas tobe fulfilled, thenwas it abandoned toitself, and thenwere human infirmities permitted tominglewith it, and tomar itslustre.Strange,thatjustwhenenteringonthefunctionsofanauthoritativeguideandleadertomankind,thatthen,andnottillthen,thesoilandthefeeblenessofhumanityshouldbesufferedtogatheraroundit.Strange,that,withtheinspirationofthoughts,it should make pure ingress into the minds of the Apostles; but wanting theinspirationofwordsshouldnotmakepureegresstothatworldinwhosebehalfalone,and for whose admonition alone, this great movement originated in heaven, andterminated in earth. Strange,more especially strange, in the face of the declarationthat not unto themselves but unto us they ministered these things,-strange,nevertheless, that this revelation should come in purely to themselves, but to usshould come forth impurely, with somewhat, it would appear, with somewhat thetaintandtheobscurationofhumanfrailtyattachedtoit.-Itmattersnotatwhatpointintheprogressofthiscelestialtruthtoourworldtheobscurationhasbeencastuponit. It comes to us a dim and desecrated thing at last; and man instead of holdingconversewithGod’sunspottedtestimony,hasanimperfect,amutilatedBibleputintohishands.”

(b)“Suchbeingourviews,itistheunavoidableconsequenceofthemthatweshouldholdtheBible,forallthepurposesofarevelation,tobeperfectinitslanguage,aswellasperfect in itsdoctrine.And for this conclusion it is notnecessary thatwe shouldarbitrate between the theories of superintendence and suggestion. Thesuperintendence that would barely intercept the progress of error, we altogetherdiscard,conceiving,that,ifthistermbeapplicabletotheprocessofinspirationatall,it must be that efficient superintendence which not only secures that, negatively,thereshallbenothingwrong,-butwhichalsosecuresthat,affirmatively,thereshouldat all times have emanated from the sacred penmen, the fittest topics, and thesecouched in the fittest and most appropriate expression. Whether this has beenaffectedpartlybysuperintendenceandpartlybysuggestion,orwhollybysuggestion,wecarenot.Wehavenoinclinationandnotasteforthesedistinctions.Ourcauseisindependentofthem;norcanwefullyparticipateinthefearsofthosealarmistswhothinkthatourcauseismateriallyinjuredbythem.Theimportantquestionwithusisnottheprocessofthemanufacture,butthequalitiesoftheresultingcommodity.Theformerweboldnottobearelevant,andwearenotsurethatitisalegitimateinquiry.Itisonthelatterwetakeourstand;andthesuperabundanttestimoniesofScriptureon theworthand theperfectionand the absolute authority of theWord-these form

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the strongholds of an argument that goes to establish all which the most rigidadvocatesforatotalandinfallibleinspirationoughttodesire.Ourconcerniswiththework,andnotwith theworkmanship;norneedwe intrude into themysteriesof thehidden operation, if only assured by the explicit testimonies of Scripture that theproductofthatoperation,is,bothinsubstanceandexpression,aperfectdirectoryoffaith andpractice.Webelieve that, in the compositionof that record,mennot onlythoughtastheywereinspired,butspakeastheyweremovedbytheHolyGhost.Butour argument for the absolute perfection of Holy Writ is invulnerably beyond thereachevenofthosewhohaveattemptedtotracewithgeographicalprecisionthelinewhich separates the miraculous from the natural; and tell us when it was thatApostleswrotethewordswhichtheSpiritpromptedthem,andwhenitwasthattheywrote the words which the Spirit permitted them. To the result, in our humbleapprehension, it positively matters not. Did they speak the words that the Spiritprompted,-thesewordswere therefore thebest.Did theyspeak thewordswhich theSpiritpermitted,-itwasbecausethesewordswerethebest.TheoptimismoftheBibleisalike secured inboth theseways;and the sanctionof theSpirit extended,both inrespect of sentiments nod of sayings, to every clause of it. In either way, theyeffectively are thewords of the Spirit; andGod through the Bible is not presentingtruths through themedium of others’ language. He in effect has made it His ownlanguage;andGod,throughtheBible,isspeakingtous.”

(c) “It is the part of Christians to rise like a wall of fire around the integrity andinspirationofScripture;andtoholdthemasintactandinviolableasifarampartwerethrownaround themwhose foundations areon earth andwhose battlements are inheaven. It is this tampering with limits that destroys and defaces everything; andthereforeitispreciselywhenthelimitisbrokenthatthealarmshouldbesounded.Ifthebattle-cryistobeliftedatall,itshouldbeliftedattheoutset;andsoonthefirstmingling,byhoweversoslightaninfusion,ofthingshumanwiththingsdivine,allthefriends of the Bible should join heart and hand against so foul and fearful adesecration.”-Chalmers’ChristianEvidences,Vol.ii.pp.371,372,375,376,396.

FOOTNOTES

1Carlyle’sestimateoftheKoranisgiven,in“Hero-worship,” inthefollowingwords.“Itisawearisome,confusedjumble,crude,recondite,aboundinginendlessiterations,long-windedness,entanglement,insupportablestupidity.Inshortnothingbutasenseofdutycould carryanyEuropean through theKoran,with itsunreadablemassesoflumber.”

JohnOwensays,“Therearenootherwritingsintheworld,besidetheBible,thateverpretendeduntoadivineoriginal,buttheyarenotonlyfromtheirmatter,butfromthe

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manner of their writing, and the plain footsteps of human artifice and weaknesstherein, sufficient for their own conviction, and do openly discover their own vainpretensions.”(TheReasonofFaith.Works,voliv.,p.34,Johnston’sEdition.)

2“Ihavealwaysbeenstronglyinfavourofseculareducationinthesenseofeducationwithouttheology.ButImustconfessIhavebeennolessseriouslyperplexedtoknowby what practical measures the religious feeling, which is the essential basis ofconduct, could be kept up in the present chaotic state of opinion on thesematterswithouttheuseoftheBible.”

“Considerthegreathistorical factthat forthreecenturiesthisBookhasbeenwovenintothe lifeofall that isbestandnoblest inEnglishhistory;-that ithasbecomethenationalepicofBritain,and isas familiar tonobleandsimple fromJohno’Groat’sHome to the Land’s End, as Dante and Tasso once were to the Italians;-that it iswritten in the best and purest English, and abounds in exquisite beauties of mereliteraryform,-andfinally,thatit forbidstheveriesthindwhoneverlefthisvillagetobe ignorantofother countriesandother civilizations,andofagreatpast, stretchingback to the furthest limits of the oldest nations in theworld. By the study of whatotherbookcouldchildrenbesomuchhumanizedandmadetofeelthateachfigureinthat vast historical procession fills, like themselves, but a momentary space in theinterval between two eternities, and earns the blessings or the curses of all time,according to its effort to do good and hate evil, even as they also are earning theirpaymentfortheirwork?”-ProfessorHuxleyonSchoolBoards(Huxley’sCritiquesandEssays,p51.)

3“TheBibleisthefountainofalltruepatriotismandloyaltyinStates,-itisthesourceofalltruewisdom,soundpolicy,andequityinSenates,Council-chambers,andCourtsofJustice -it is the springofall truedisciplineandobedience, andof all valourandchivalry,inarmiesandfleets,inthebattlefieldandonthewidesea;-itistheoriginofallprobityandintegrityincommerceandintrade,inmartsandinshops,inbanksandexchanges, in thepublic resortsofmenand the secret silenceof theheart; it is thepure, unsullied fountain of all love and peace, happiness, quietness and joy, infamiliesandhouseholds.-Whereveritisdulyobeyeditmakesthedesertoftheworldtorejoiceandblossomastherose.”-WordsworthonInspiration,p.113.

4“ThelittlearkofJewishliteraturestill floatsabovethesurgesof time,whilemerefragments of the wrecked archives of the huge oriental empires, as well as of thelesserkingdomsthatsurroundedJudea,arenowandthencastonourdistantshores.“-RogersontheSuperhumanOriginoftheBible,p.311,

5“WeaffirmthattheBibleistheWornofGod,andthatitisnotmarredwithhumaninfirmities.Wedonotimagine,withsome,thattheBibleislikeathreshing-floor,onwhichwheatandchaffliemingledtogether,andthatitisleftforthereadertowinnow

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andsiftthewheatfromthechaffbythefanandsieveofhisownmind.”-Wordsworthon“Inspiration.”(P.11.)

6 It would be easy to multiply texts in proof of this point. I will only name thefollowing:Heb.ii.8;iii.7-19;iv.2-11;xii.27.

7 “The language of Scripture is necessarily adapted to the common state of man’sintellectual development, in which he is not supposed to be possessed of science.Hence thephrasesusedbyScriptureareprecisely thosewhich science soon teachesmantoconsider inaccurate.Yet theyarenoton thataccount the less fitted for theirpurpose, for if any terms had been used adapted to a more advanced state ofknowledge, theymust have been unintelligible to those towhom the Scripturewasfirstaddressed.”-Whewell’sPhilosophyofInductiveScience.Vol.i.,p.636.

OurSouls

Forwhatshallitprofitaman,ifheshallgainthewholeworld,andlosehisownsoul?"Mark8:36

ThesayingofourLordJesusChrist,whichstandsat theheadof thispage,ought toring in our ears like a trumpet-blast. It concerns our highest and best interests. ItconcernsOURSOULS.

What a solemn question these words of Scripture contain!What a mighty sum ofprofit and loss they propound to us for calculation! Where is the accountant whocouldreckonitup?Whereisthecleverarithmeticianwhowouldnotbebaffledbythatsum?"Whatshall itprofitaman, ifheshallgainthewholeworld,and losehisownsoul?"

Iwish tooffera fewplainremarks, toenforceand illustrate thequestionwhich theLordJesusasksinthepassagebeforeus.Iinvitetheseriousattentionofallwhoreadthisvolume.Mayallwhotakeitupfeelmoredeeplythantheyeveryetfelt,thevalueofanimmortalsoul!Itisthefirststeptowardheaventofindoutthetrueworthofoursouls.ThefirstremarkIhavetomakeisthis–

I.Everyoneofushasanundyingsoul.

I am not ashamed to beginmy paperwith thesewords. I dare say that they soundstrangeand foolish tosomereaders. Idaresay thatsomewillexclaim,"Whoknowsnot such things as these?Who ever thinks of doubting that we have souls?" But Icannot forget that theworld is just now fixing its attention onmaterial things to amostextravagantextent.Weliveinanageofprogress—anageofsteam-enginesand

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machinery, of locomotion and invention.We live in an agewhen themultitude areincreasingly absorbed in earthly things—in railways, and docks, and mines, andcommerce,andtrade,andbanks,andshops,andcotton,andcorn,andiron,andgold.Welive inanagewhen there isa falseglareon the thingsof time,andagreatmistoverthethingsofeternity.InanagelikethisitistheboundendutyoftheministersofChristtofallbackuponfirstprinciples.Necessityislaiduponus.Woeisuntous,ifwedonotpresshomeonmenourLord'squestionaboutthesoul!Woeisuntous,ifwedonotcryaloud,"Thispresentworldisnotall.Thelifethatwenowliveinthefleshisnottheonlylife.Thereisalifetocome.Wehavesouls!"

Letus establish it inourmindsas a great fact, thatweall carrywithinourbosomssomething that will never die. This body of ours, which takes up so much of ourthoughts and time, towarm it, dress it, feed it, andmake it comfortable—this bodyaloneisnotalltheman.Itisbutthelodgingofanobletenant,andthattenantistheimmortalsoul!Thedeathwhicheachofushasonedaytodiedoesnotmakeanendoftheman.All isnotoverwhenthelastbreathisdrawn,andthedoctor'slastvisithasbeenpaid—whenthecoffinisscreweddown,andthefuneralpreparationsaremade—when "ashes to ashes anddust todust"hasbeenpronouncedover the grave—whenourplaceintheworldisfilledup,andthegapmadebyourabsencefromsocietyisnolongernoticed.No—allisnotoverthen!Thespiritofmanstillliveson!Everyonehaswithinhimanundyingsoul!

Idonotstoptoprovethis.Itwouldbeamerewasteoftime.Thereisaconscienceinall mankind, which is worth a thousand metaphysical arguments. There is a voicewithin,which speaks out loudly at times, andwill be heard—a voicewhich tells us,whetherwelikeitornot,thatwehave,everyoneofus,anundyingsoul.Whatthoughwe cannot see our souls? Are there not millions of things in existence which wecannot see with the naked eye? Who that has looked through the telescope ormicroscopecandoubtthatthisisthecase?

Whatthoughwecannotseeoursouls?Wecanfeelthem!Whenwearealone,onthebed of sickness, and the world is shut out—when we watch by the death-bed of afriend—whenweseethosewhomweloveloweredintothegrave—attimeslikethese,whodoesnotknowthefeelingswhichcomeacrossmen'sminds?Whodoesnotknowthatinhourslikethese,somethingrisesintheheart,tellingusthatthereisalifetocome,andthatall,fromthehighesttothelowest,haveundyingsouls?

Youmaygoallovertheworld,andtaketheevidenceofeveryageandtime.Youwillnever receive but one answer on this subject. Youwill find some nations buried indegradingsuperstition,andmadafter idols.Youwill findotherssunk in thedarkestignorance,andutterlyunacquaintedwiththetrueGod.Butyouwillnotfindanationorpeopleamongwhomthere isnotsomeconsciousnessthatthere isa lifetocome.The deserted temples of Egypt, Greece, and Rome, the Druid remains of our own

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native land, the splendid pagodas of Hindostan, the Fetish worship of Africa, thefuneralceremoniesoftheNewZealandchiefs, theconjurers' tentsamongtheNorthAmericanIndiantribes—all,allspeakwiththesamevoice,andtellthesamestory.Fardown in the human heart, beneath the rubbish heaped up by the Fall, there is aninscription which nothing can efface—telling us that this world is not all, and thateveryoneofushasanundyingsoul!

Idonotstoptoprovethatmenhavesouls,butIdoaskeveryreaderofthispapertokeepiteverbeforehismind.Perhapsyourlotiscast inthemidstofsomebusycity.You see around you an endless struggle for temporal things. Hurry, bustle, andbusinesshemyouinoneveryside.Icanwellbelieveyouaresometimestemptedtothink that thisworld is everything, and the body is all that isworth caring for. Butresistthetemptation,andcastitbehindyou.Saytoyourselfeverymorningwhenyourise,andeverynightwhenyou liedown,"Thisworld ispassingaway.The life that Inowliveisnotall.Thereissomethingbesidebusiness,andmoney,andpleasure,andcommerce,andtrade.Thereisalifetocome.Ihaveanimmortalsoul!"

Idonot stop toprove thepoint,but Idoaskevery reader to realize thedignityandresponsibility of having a soul. Yes—realize the fact, that in your soul you have thegreatest treasurewhichGodhas committed to your charge.Know that in your soulyouhaveapearlaboveallprice,comparedtowhichallearthlypossessionsaretrifleslight as air. The horse that wins the Derby or the Leger, attracts the attention ofthousands—painterspaint it,andengraversengrave it,andvastsumsofmoney turnon its achievements. Yet theweakest infant in aworkingman's family, is farmoreimportantinGod'ssightthanthathorse.Thespiritoftheanimalgoesdownwards;butthatinfanthasanimmortalsoul.

Thepicturesatourgreatexhibitionsarevisitedbyadmiringcrowds—peoplegazeonthemwithwonder,andtalkwithraptureof the"immortalworks"ofRubens,Titian,and other greatmasters.But there is no immortality about these things. The earth,andallitsworksshallbeburnedup!Thelittlebabethatcriesinagarret,andknowsnothingoffineart,shalloutliveallthosepictures,forithasasoulwhichshallneverdie!ThereshallbeatimewhenthePyramidsandtheParthenonshallalikecrumbletonothing—whenWindsorCastleandWestminsterAbbeyshallbecastdownandpassaway—when thesunshall cease to shine,and themoonnomoregiveher light.Butthesoulofthehumblestlaborerisoffarmoreenduringsubstance.Itshallsurvivethecrashofanexpiringuniverse,andliveontoalleternity.Realize,Isayoncemore,theresponsibilityanddignityofhavinganever-dyingsoul.

Youmaybepoor inthisworld—butyouhaveasoul.Youmaybesicklyandweak inbody—butyouhaveasoul.Youmaynotbeaking,oraqueen,oraduke,oranearl—yetyouhaveasoul.ThesoulisthepartofuswhichGodchieflyregards.Thesoulis"theman."Thesoulwhichisinmanisthemostimportantthingabouthim.

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I do not stop to prove thatmen have souls, but I do ask allmen to live as if theybelievedit.Liveasifyoureallybelievedthatwewerenotsentintotheworldmerelytospincotton,andgrowcorn,andhoardupgold—butto"glorifyGodandtoenjoyHimforever."ReadyourBible,andbecomeacquaintedwithitscontents.SeektheLordinprayer,andpouroutyourheartbeforeHim.Go toaplaceofworship regularly,andhear the Gospel preached. And if any ask you the reason why—if wife, or child, orcompanionsay,"Whatareyouabout?"—answerthemboldly,likeaman,andsay,"IdothesethingsbecauseIhaveasoul."ThesecondremarkIhavetomakeisthis–

II.AnyonemayLOSEhisownsoul.

Thisisasorrowfulportionofmysubject.Butit isonewhichIdarenot,cannotpassby. Ihaveno sympathywith thosewhoprophesynothing but peace, and keep backfrom men the awful fact, that they may lose their souls. I am one of those old-fashionedministerswho believe thewholeBible—and everything that it contains. IcanfindnoScripturalfoundationforthatsmooth-spokentheology,whichpleasessomany in these days, and according to which everybody will get to heaven at last. Ibelievethatthereisarealdevil.Ibelievethatthereisarealhell.Ibelievethatitisnotlovetokeepbackfrommenthattheymaybelost.Love!—shallIcallit?Ifyousawabrotherdrinkingpoison,wouldyoubequiet?Love!—shallIcallit?Ifyousawablindmantotteringtowardsaprecipice,wouldyounotcryout"Stop!"Awaywithsuchfalsenotions of love! Let us not slander that blessed grace, by using its name in a falsesense.It isthehighest lovetobringthewholetruthbeforemen.It isrealcharity towarnthemplainlywhentheyareindanger.Itislovetoimpressuponthem,thattheymaylosetheirownsoulsforeverinhell.

Manhasabouthimanamazingpowerforevil.Weakasweareinallthatisgood,wehave amightypower todo ourselvesharm.You cannot save that soul of yours,mybrother—remember that! You cannot make your own peace with God. You cannotwipeawayasinglesin.YoucannotblotoutoneoftheblackrecordswhichstandinthebookofGodagainstyou.Youcannotchangeyourownheart.Butthereisonethingyoucando—youcanloseyourownsoul!

Butthisisnotall.Notonlycanweallloseourownsouls,butweareallinimminentperilofdoingit!Borninsin,andchildrenofwrath,wehavenonaturaldesiretohaveoursoulssaved.Weak,corrupt,inclinedtosin,we"callgoodevil,andevilgood."Darkandblind,anddeadintrespasses,wehavenoeyestoseethepitwhichyawnsbeneathourfeet,andnosenseofourguiltanddanger.Andyetoursoulsareall this time inawfulperil!

Ifanyonewere tosail forAmerica ina leakyship,withoutcompass,withoutwater,withoutprovisions,whodoesnotseethattherewouldbelittlechanceofhiscrossingtheAtlantic in safety? Ifyouwere toplace theKohinoordiamond in thehandsofa

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littlechild,andbidhimcarryitfromTowerHilltoBristol,whodoesnotperceivethedoubtfulnessofthatdiamondarrivingsafelyattheendofthejourney?Yetthesearebutfaintimagesoftheimmenseperilinwhichwestandbynatureoflosingoursouls.

Butsomeonemayask,Howcanamanlosehissoul?Therearemanyanswerstothat question. Just as there aremany diseaseswhich assault and hurt the body, sothere aremany evils which assault and injure the soul. Yet however numerous thewaysinwhichamanmaylosehisownsoul,theymaybeclassedunderthreegeneralheads.Letmeshowbrieflywhattheyare.

For one thing, youmaymurderyour soul by running into OPEN SIN, andserving lusts and pleasures. Adultery and fornication, drunkenness and reveling,dishonestyandlying,areallsomanyshort-cutstohell."Letnomandeceiveyouwithvainwords,forbecauseofthesethingsthewrathofGodcomesuponthechildrenofdisobedience."(Ephes.5:6.)

Foranother thing,youmaypoisonyourownsoulbytakingupsomeFALSERELIGION. You may drug it with traditions of man's invention, and a round ofceremoniesandobservanceswhichnevercamedownfromheaven.Youmaylullittosleepwithopiateswhichstupifytheconscience,butdonothealtheheart.Strychnineandarsenicwilldotheirworkquiteaseffectuallyasthepistolorsword,thoughwithlessnoise. Let nomandeceive you. "Beware of false prophets."Whenmen committheirsouls toblind leaders,bothmust fall into theditch.A false religion isquiteasruinousasnoreligionatall!

For another thing, you may starve your soul to death by trifling andINDECISION.Youmay idle through lifewithanameupon thebaptismal register,butnot inscribed in theLamb'sBookofLife—witha formof godliness,butwithoutthepower.Youmaytrifleonyearafteryear,takingnointerestinthatwhichisgood,content tosneerat the inconsistenciesofprofessors,and flatteringyourself becauseyouarenobigot,orpartyman,orprofessor,itwillbe"allright"withyoursoulatlast."Letnomandeceiveyouwithvainwords."Indecisionisjustasruinoustothesoulasafalsereligionornoreligionatall.Thestreamoflifecanneverstandstill.Whetheryouaresleepingorwaking,youarefloatingdownthatstream.Youarecomingnearerandnearer to the rapids.Youwill soonpassover the falls,and, ifyoudiewithout adecidedfaith,becastawayforalleternity!

Suchthenarethethreechiefwaysinwhichyoucanloseyoursoul.Doesanyonewhoisreadingthispaperknowwhichofthesewaysheistaking?SearchandlookwhetherIhavetouchedyourowncase.Findoutwhetherornotyouarelosingyoursoul.

Butdoes it takemuchefforttoruinasoul? Oh, no! It is a down-hill journey.Thereisnothingrequiredatyourhands.Thereisnoneedofexertion.Youhaveonly

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tositstill,andswimwiththetide,tofloatdownthestream,togowiththecrowd—andbyandbythetimeofmercywillbepastforevermore!"Wideisthegatethatleadstodestruction!"

Butaretheremany,whoarelosingtheirsouls?Yes,indeedthereare!Looknotattheinscriptionsandepitaphsontombstones, ifyouwouldfindthetrueanswertothatquestion!AsDr.Wattssays,they"flatterandlie."

Allmenare thought respectableand"goodsortofpeople"as soonas theyaredead.But look at the Word of God, and mark well what it says. The Lord Jesus Christdeclares,"Straitisthegateandnarrowisthewaywhichleadsuntolife,andfewtherebethatfindit—broadisthewaythatleadstodestruction,andmanytherebethatgointhereat."(Matt.7:13,14.)

Butwho is responsiblefor the loss of our souls?No one but ourselves! Ourbloodwillbeuponourownheads.Theblamewilllieatourowndoor.Weshallhavenothingtopleadatthelastday,whenwestandbeforethegreatwhitethroneandthebooksareopened.WhentheKingcomesintoseeHisguests,andsays,"Friend,howdidyougetinhere,nothavingaweddinggarment?"weshallbespeechless.Weshallhavenoexcusetopleadforthelossofoursouls.

Butwheredoesthesoulgotowhenlost?There isonlyone solemnanswer tothatquestion.Thereisbutoneplacetowhichitcango,andthat ishell.There isnosuchthingasannihilation.Thelostsoulgoestothatplacewherethewormdoesnotdie, and the fire is not quenched—where there is blackness and darkness,wretchedness anddespair forever. Since it is not fit for heaven, it goes tohell --theonlyplaceforwhichitisfit."Thewickedshallbeturnedintohell,withallthenationswhichforgetGod.""Theendofthosethingsisdeath!"(Rom.6:21.)

LetmesayplainlythatweministersarefulloffearsaboutmanywhoprofessandcallthemselvesChristians.We fear lest theyshould loseat last theirprecioussouls.Wefearlestthatarch-impostor,Satan,shouldcheatthemoutofsalvation,andleadthemcaptiveathiswill.Wefearlesttheyshouldwakeupineternity,andfindthemselveslost forevermore!We fear, becausewe see somany living in sinful habits, somanyrestinginformsandceremonieswhichGodnevercommanded,somanytriflingwithallreligionwhatever—somany,inshort,ruiningtheirownsouls!Weseethesethings,andareafraid.

ItisjustbecauseIfeelthatsoulsareindangerthatIwritethispaper,andinvitementoreadit.IfIthoughttherewasnosuchplaceashellIwouldnotwriteasIdo.IfIthought thatasamatterof courseallpeoplewouldgo toheavenat last, Iwouldbequiet and leave them alone. But I dare not do so. I see danger ahead, and I wouldsincerelywarneverymantofleefromthewrathtocome.Iseeperilofshipwreck,and

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I would light a beacon and entreat everyman to seek the harbor of safety. Do notdespisemywarning.Examineyourownheart—findoutwhetheryouareinawaytobelost or saved. Search and seehowmatters standbetween yourself andGod—do notcommit the enormous folly of losing your own soul. We live in an age of greattemptation.Thedevilisgoingaboutandisverybusy.Thenightisfarspent.Thetimeisshort.Donotloseyourownsoul!

III.Thelossofanyman'ssoulistheheaviestlosswhichhecansuffer.

IfeelunabletosetforththispointasIought.Nolivingmancanshowthefullextentofthelossofthesoul.Noonecanpaintthatlossinitstruecolors.Noweshallneverunderstand it until we have passed through the valley of the shadow of death, andwakeupintheeternalworld!Neveruntilthenshallweknowthevalueofanimmortalsoul.

Imight say thatnothing in thepresent lifecanmakeup for the lossof thesoul. You may have all the riches of the world—all the gold of Australia and ofCalifornia,all thehonorswhichyourcountrycanbestowuponyou.Youmaybe theownerofhalfacontinent.Youmaybeonewhomkingsdelighttohonor,andnationsgazeuponwithadmiration.Butallthistime,ifyouarelosingyoursoul,youareapoormaninthesightofGod.Yourhonorsarebutforafewyears.Yourrichesmustbeleftatlast.Nakedyoucameweintotheworld,andnakedmustyougoout.Nolightheart,no cheerful conscience, will you have in life, unless your soul is saved. Of all yourmoney or broad acres, youwill carry nothingwith youwhen you die. A few feet ofearthwillsufficetocoverthatbodyofyourswhenlifeisover.Andthen,ifyoursoulbe lost, you will find yourself a pauper to all eternity. Verily it shall profit a mannothingtogainthewholeworldifheloseshisownsoul.

Imight say thatwhen the soul is lost, it is a loss that cannot be retrieved.Oncelost,itislostforevermore.Thelossofpropertymayberetrievedinthisworld.Thelossofhealthandcharacteraresometimesreparable.Butnomanwhohasoncedrawn his last breath can ever retrieve his lost soul. Scripture reveals to us nopurgatorybeyondthegrave.Scripture teachesus that,once lost,weare lost forever!Verilyamanwill find that there isnothinghe cangive tobuybackand redeemhissoul.

ButIfeeldeeplythatargumentslikethesefallfarbelowthelevelofthesubject.Thetimeisnotyetcomewhenweshall fullyrealizewhatasoul isworth.Wemust lookfarforward.Wemustplaceourselvesinimaginationinadifferentpositionfromthatwhich we now occupy, before we shall form a right estimate of the thing we areconsidering. The blind man cannot understand beautiful scenery. The deaf mancannot appreciate fine music. The living man cannot fully realize the amazingimportanceofaworldtocome.

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Doesanyreaderofthispaperwishtohavesomefaintideaofthevalueofasoul?Then go and measure it by the opinions of dying people. The solemnity of theclosingscenestripsoffthetinselandpretenseofthings,andmakesmenseethemasthey really are.Whatwouldmendo then for their souls? I have seen something ofthis, as a Christian minister. Seldom, very seldom, have I found people careless,thoughtless,andindifferentabouttheworldtocome, inthehourofdeath.Themanwhocantellgoodstories,andsinggoodsongstomerrycompanions,turnsverygravewhen he begins to feel that life is leaving his body. The boasting infidel at such aseason has often cast aside his infidelity. Men like Paine and Voltaire have oftenshownthattheirvauntedphilosophybreaksdownwhenthegraveisinsight.Tellmenotwhat aman thinks about the soulwhenhe is in the fullness of health; tellmeratherwhathe thinkswhentheworld issinkingbeneathhim,anddeath, judgment,andeternityloominsight.Thegreatrealitiesofourbeingwillthendemandattention,andmustbe considered.Thevalueof the soul in the lightof time is one thing,butseeninthelightofeternityitisquiteanother.Neverdoeslivingmanknowthevalueofthesoulsowellaswhenheisdying,andcankeeptheworldnolonger.

Doesanyonewishtohaveastillclearerideaofthesoul'svalue?Thengoandmeasureitbytheopinionsofthedead.ReadinthesixteenthchapterofLuketheparableoftherichmanandLazarus.Whentherichmanawokeinhellandintorments,whatdidhesaytoAbraham?"SendLazarustomyfather'shouse—forIhavefivebrethren—thathemaytestifytothem—lesttheyalsocometothisplaceof torment."Thatrichmanprobablythoughtlittleornothingofthesoulsofotherswhilehelivedupontheearth.Oncedead and in theplace of torment, he sees things in their true colors. Then hethinks of his brethren, and begins to care for their salvation. Then he cries, "SendLazarustomyfather'shouse.Ihavefivebrethren.Lethimtestifyuntothem."Ifthatwonderful parable did nothing else, it would teach us what men think when theyawake in the nextworld. It lifts a corner of the veilwhich hangs over theworld tocome,andgivesusaglimpseofwhatdeadmenthinkofthevalueofthesoul.

Doesanyonewishtohavetheclearestideathatcanbegivenofthesoul'svalue?Thengo and measure it by the pricewhich was paid for it 1800 years ago. What anenormousandcountlesspriceitwaswhichwaspaid!Nogold,nosilver,nodiamondswerefoundsufficienttoprovideredemption—noangelinheavenwasabletobringaransom.NothingbutthebloodofChrist—nothingbutthedeathoftheeternalSonofGoduponthecross,wasfoundsufficienttobuyforthesouldeliverancefromhell.GotoCalvaryinspirit,andconsiderwhattookplacethere,whentheLordJesusdied.SeetheblessedSaviorsufferingonthecross.MarkwhathappenstherewhenHedies.Seehowtherewasdarknessforthreehoursoverthefaceoftheearth.Theearthquakes.Therocksaretornapart.Thegravesareopened.ListentoHisdyingwords—"MyGod,my God, why have you forsaken Me?" Then see in all that marvelous transactionsomething,whichmaygiveyouanideaofthevalueofthesoul.Inthatdreadfulscenewewitness payment of the only price which was found sufficient to redeemmen's

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souls.

Weshallallunderstandthevalueofthesouloneday,ifwedonotunderstanditnow.God grant that no one who reads this paper may understand it too late. A lunaticasylumisapitiablesight.Itwringsthehearttoseeinthatgloomybuildingsomeman,who had once a princely fortune, but has squandered it, and brought himself tohopeless insanity by drunkenness. A shipwreck is a pitiable sight. It makes onemelancholy toseesomegallantvessel,whichonce"walked thewater likea thingoflife,"strandedonarockyshore,withadrownedcrewandascatteredcargolyingroundheronthebeach.Butofallsightsthatcanaffecttheeyeandgrievetheheart,Iknownone so pitiable as the sight of aman ruining his own soul. Nowonder that Jesuswept when He drew near unto Jerusalem for the last time. It is written, that "Hebeheld the city and wept over it!" (Luke 19:41.)Heknew the value of souls, if theScribesandPhariseesdidnot.WemaylearnfromthosetearsofHis,iffromnothingelse—thevalueofman'ssoul,andtheamountoflosswhichhewillsustainifthatsouliscastaway.

I charge every reader of this paper,while it is called today, to open his eyes to theworthofhissoul.Risetoasenseoftheawfulnessoflosingasoul.Strivetoknowtherealpreciousnessofthatmightytreasurecommittedtoyourcharge.Thevalueofallthingswill change greatly oneday.Thehour comeswhenmoney shall beworthnomore thanwastepaper, andgold anddiamonds shall be as thedust of the streets—whenthepalaceofthenoble,andthecottageofthepeasantshallbothalikefalltotheground—whenstocksandfundsshallbeallunsaleable—andgraceandfaithandgoodhopebeno longerunderratedanddespised. In thathouryouwill findout, inawayyouneverfoundoutbefore,thevalueoftheimmortalsoul.Soul-losswillthenbeseentobethegreatestoflosses,andsoul-gainthegreatestofgains.Seektoknowthevalueofthesoulnow.DonotbeliketheEgyptianQueen,who,infoolishostentation,tookapearlofgreatvalue,dissolved it inacid,and thendrank itoff.Donot, likeher, castawaythe"pearlofgreatprice,"whichGodhascommittedtoyourcharge.Oncelost,nolosscancomparewiththelossofthesoul

IV.Anyman'ssoulmaybesaved.

IblessGodthattheGospelofChristenablesmetoproclaimthesegladtidings,andtoproclaimthemfreelyandunconditionallytoeveryonewhoreadsthesepages.IblessGod,thatafterallthesolemnthingsIhavebeensaying,Icanwindupwithamessageofpeace.Icouldnotbeartheawfulresponsibilityoftellingmenthateveryonehasasoul, that any one may lose his soul—that the loss of the soul is a loss for whichnothingcanmakeup—ifIcouldnotalsoproclaimthatanyman'ssoulmaybesaved.

Ithinkitpossiblethatthisproclamationmaysoundstartlingtosomereadersofthispaper. I remember the timewhen itwould have sounded startling tome. But I am

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persuadedthatitisneithermorenorlessthanthevoiceoftheeverlastingGospel,andIamnotashamedtomakeitknowntoallwhohaveaneartohear.Isayboldly,thatthereissalvationintheGospelforthechiefofsinners.Isayconfidently,thatanyoneandeveryonemayhavehissoulsaved!

I know thatwe are all sinners by nature—fallen, guilty, corrupt, coveredwith sin. IknowthattheGodwithwhomwehavetodoisamostholyBeing,ofpurereyesthantobeholdiniquity,andOnewhocannotlookuponthatwhichisevil.Iknowalsothattheworldinwhichourlotiscast,isahardworldforreligion.Itisaworldfullofcaresandtroubles,ofunbeliefandimpurity,ofoppositionandhatredtoGod.Itisaworldinwhichtruereligionislikeanexotic—aworldwhichhasanatmospherethatmakesreligionwitheraway.But,notwithstandingallthis,hardasthisworldis,holyasGodis, sinfulaswearebynature—Isay, that anyone andeveryonemaybe saved.Anymanorwomanmaybesavedfromtheguilt,thepower,theconsequencesofsin,andbefoundatlengthattherighthandofGodineverlastingglory!

I fancyIhearsomereaderexclaim,"Howcanthesethingsbe?"Nowonder thatyouask that question. This is the great knot which heathen philosophers could neveruntie.ThisistheproblemwhichallthesagesofGreeceandofRomecouldnotsolve.This is the question which nothing can answer but the Gospel of the Lord JesusChrist.Thatanswerof theGospel Inowdesire toplacebeforeyou. Iproclaimthen,with all confidence, that any one's soul may be saved, (1) because Christ has oncedied. JesusChrist, the Son ofGod, has diedupon the cross tomake atonement formen's sins. "Christhasoncesuffered for sins, the just for theunjust, thathemightbringustoGod."(1Pet.3:18.)ChristhasborneoursinsinHisownbodyonthetree,and allowed the cursewe all deserved to fall onHis head. Christ byHis death hasmade satisfaction to theholy lawofGodwhichwehavebroken.Thatdeathwasnocommon death—it was no mere example of self-denial; it was no mere death of amartyr, such aswere the deaths of aRidley, a Latimer, or a Cranmer. The death ofChrist was a sacrifice and propitiation for the sin of the whole world. It was thevicariousdeathofanAlmightySubstitute,Surety,andRepresentativeof thesons ofmen. It paid our enormous debt to God. It opened up the way to heaven to allbelievers.Itprovidedafountainforallsinanduncleanness.ItenabledGodtobejust,and yet to be the justifier of the ungodly. It purchased reconciliation with Him. ItprocuredperfectpeacewithGodforallwhocometoHimbyJesus.TheprisondoorsweresetopenwhenJesusdied.Libertywasproclaimedtoallwhofeelthebondageofsin,anddesiretobefree.

Forwhom,doyousuppose,wasallthatsufferingundergone,whichJesusenduredatCalvary? Why was the holy Son of God dealt with as a malefactor, reckoned atransgressor, and condemned to so cruel a death? Forwhomwere those hands andfeetnailedtothecross?Forwhomwasthatsidepiercedwiththespear?Forwhomdidthatpreciousbloodflowsofreelydown?Whywasallthisdone?Itwasdoneforyou!

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It was done for the sinful—for the ungodly! It was done freely, voluntarily—not bycompulsion—outof love to sinners,and tomakeatonement for sin.Surely, then, asChristdiedfortheungodly,Ihavearighttoproclaimthatanyonemaybesaved.

Furthermore,Iproclaimwithallconfidence,thatanyonemaybesaved, (2)becauseChrist still lives. That same Jesuswho once died for sinners, still lives at the righthandofGod,tocarryontheworkofsalvationwhichHecamedownfromheaventoperform.HelivestoreceiveallwhocomeuntoGodbyHim,andtogivethempowertobecome the sons of God. He lives to hear the confession of every heavy-ladenconscience, and to grant, as an almightyHighPriest, perfect absolution.He lives topourdowntheSpiritofadoptiononallwhobelieveinHim,andtoenablethemtocry,Abba,Father!HelivestobetheoneMediatorbetweenGodandman,theunweariedIntercessor,thekindShepherd,theelderBrother,theprevailingAdvocate,thenever-failing Priest and Friend of all who come to God by Him. He lives to be wisdom,righteousness,sanctification,andredemptiontoallHispeople—tokeeptheminlife,tosupportthemindeath,andtobringthemfinallytoeternalglory.

Forwhom,doyousuppose, isJesussittingatGod'srighthand?It is forthesonsofmen. High in heaven, and surrounded by unspeakable glory, He still cares for thatmightyworkwhichHeundertookwhenHewasborninthemangerofBethlehem.Heisnotonewhitaltered.Heisalwaysinonemind.HeisthesamethatHewaswhenHewalkedtheshoresoftheseaofGalilee.HeisthesamethatHewaswhenHepardonedSaulthePharisee,andsenthimforthtopreachthefaithhehadoncedestroyed.Heisthe same thatHewaswhenHe receivedMaryMagdalene—calledMatthew the tax-collector—brought Zaccheus down from the tree, andmade them examples ofwhatHisgracecoulddo.AndHeisnotchanged.Heisthesameyesterday,andtoday,andforever.SurelyIhavearighttosaythatanyonemaybesaved,sinceJesuslives.

OncemoreIproclaim,withallconfidence,thatanyonemaybesaved,(3)becausethepromises of Christ's gospel are full, free, andunconditional. "Come untoMe," saysthe Savior, "all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest"—"He whobelievesontheSonshallnotperish,buthaveeternallife."—"HewhobelievesonHimisnotcondemned."—"HewhocomesuntoMeIwillnevercastout."—"Everyonewhosees theSon,andbelievesonHimmayhaveeverlasting life."—"HewhobelievesonMe has everlasting life."—"If any man thirsts, let him come unto Me and drink.""Whoeverwill, let him take of thewater of life freely." (Matt. 11:28; John 3:15, 18;6:37,40,47;7:37;Rev.22:17.)

Forwhom,doyousuppose,werethesewordsspoken?WeretheymeantfortheJewsonly?No—fortheGentilesalso!Weretheymeantforpeopleinoldtimesonly?No—forpeople in every age!Were theymeant forPalestine and Syria only?No—for thewholeworld—foreverynameandnationandpeopleandtongue!Weretheymeantfortherichonly?No—forthepooraswellasfortherich!Weretheymeantforthevery

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moralandcorrectonly?No—theyweremeantforall—forthechiefofsinners—forthevilest of offenders, for all whowill receive them! Surely when I call tomind thesepromises,Ihavearighttosaythatanyoneandeveryonemaybesaved.Anyonewhoreadsthesewords,andisnotsaved,canneverblametheGospel.Ifyouarelost,itisnot because you could not be saved. If you are lost, it is not because therewas nopardon for sinners, noMediator, no High Priest, no fountain open for sin and foruncleanness,noopendoor.Itisbecauseyouwouldhaveyourownway,because,youwouldcleave toyoursins,becauseyouwouldnotcometoChrist, that inChristyoumighthavelife.

Imake no secret ofmy object in sending forth this volume.My heart's desire andprayer to God for you is, that your soulmay be saved. This is the grand object forwhich every faithfulminister is ordained. This is the end forwhichwe preach, andspeak,andwrite.Wewantsoulstobesaved.Theyknownotwhattheysay,whochargeuswithworldlymotives, and tell uswe onlywish to advance our own church, andpromotepriest-craft.Weknownothingofsuch feelings.MayGod forgive thosewholaythesethingstoourcharge!Welaborforhigherobjects.Wewantsoulstobesaved!We love the Church of England—we feel deep affection for her Prayer-book, herArticles,herHomilies,herFormsfortheWorshipofGod.Butonethingwefeelevenmoredeeply—wewant souls to be saved.Wedesire to pluck some brands from theburning.WedesiretobethehonoredinstrumentsinthehandofGodofleadingsomesoulstoaknowledgeofJesusChristourLord.

AndnowIwillconcludethispaperbythreewordsofaffectionateAPPLICATION,whichIheartilyprayGodtoblesstothespiritualgoodofmanysouls.Iknownotintowhosehands thesepagesmay fall. Idrawmybowataventure. IcanonlyprayGodthatHemaysendanarrowhometosomeconsciences,andthatmanywhoreadthisvolumemaylayitdownsmitingupontheirbosomsandsaying,"WhatmustIdotobesaved?"

(1)My firstwordof application shall be awordofaffectionateWARNING. Thatwordofwarningisshortandsimple—Donotneglectyourownsoul!

Ihavelittledoubtthatthisvolumewillfallintothehandsofsomewhoareoftentriedwithanxietyaboutthethingsofthis life.Youare"anxiousandtroubledaboutmanythings."Youseemtoliveinaconstantwhirlofbusiness,hurry,andtrouble.Youseearoundyou thousandswho care for nothing butwhat they shall eat, andwhat theyshalldrink,andwhattheyshallputon.Youareoftenseverelytemptedtothinkitisnousetotrytohaveanyreligion.Isaytoyou,inGod'sname—Resistthetemptation.Itcomesfromthedevil.Isaytoyou—Neverforgettheonethingneedful!Neverforgetyourimmortalsoul!

Youmaytellme,perhaps,thatthetimesarehard.Theymaybehard;butitismyduty

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toremindyouthattimeisshort,andwillbesoonchangedforeternity.Youmaytellmethatyoumustlive;butitismydutytoremindyouthatyoumustalsodie,andbereadytomeetyourGod.Whatwouldwethinkofamanwhointimeoffaminefedhisdog—andstarvedhischild?Wouldwenotsaythathewasaheartlessandunnaturalfather?Well—takeheedthatyoudonotdosomethinglikethisyourself.Donotforgetyour soul inyouranxiety for yourbody.Donot, inyour concernabout the life thatnowis,forgetthatwhichistocome.Donotneglectyoursoul!

Whateveryoumayhavebeenintimepast,Ibeseechyoufortimetocometo liveasone who feels that he has an immortal soul! Lay down this book with a holydetermination, byGod's help, to "cease to do evil, and learn to dowell." Do not beashamed, from this time forward, to care about your soul's interests. Do not beashamedtoreadyourBible,topray,tokeeptheSabbathholy,andtoheartheGospelpreached. Of sin and ungodliness you may well be ashamed. You never need beashamedofcaringforyoursoul.Letothers laughif theywill—theywillnot laughatyouoneday.Takeitpatiently.Bearitquietly.Tellthemyouhavemadeupyourmind,anddonotmeantoalter.Tellthemthatyouhavelearnedonething,ifnothingelse,andthatisthatyouhaveaprecioussoul.Andtellthemyouhaveresolvedthat,comewhatwill,youwillnolongerneglectthatsoul.

(2)MysecondwordofapplicationshallbeanaffectionateINVITATIONtoallwhodesiretheirsoulstobesaved.Iinviteeveryreaderofthispaperwhofeelsthevalueofhissoul,anddesiressalvation,tocometoChristwithoutdelay,andbesaved.IinvitehimtocometoChristbyfaith,andcommithissoultoHim,thathemaybedeliveredfromtheguilt,thepower,andtheconsequencesofsin.

Mytongueisnotabletotell,andmymindistooweaktoexplain,thewholeextentofGod'slovetowardssinners—andofChrist'swillingnesstoreceiveandsavesouls.YouarenotstraitenedinChrist,butinyourself.YoumistakegreatlyifyoudoubtChrist'sreadinesstosave.Iknowtherearenoobstaclesbetweenthatsoulofyoursandeternallife,exceptyourownwill."ThereisjoyinthepresenceoftheangelsofGodoveronesinnerthatrepents."(Luke15:10)Youmayhaveheardsomethingof thewondersofthechorusesat theCrystalPalaceconcerts.Butwhat isall thatburstofharmony inthe"HallelujahChorus,"totheoutburstofjoywhichisheardinheavenwhenasoulturnsfromdarknesstolight?Whatisitallbutamerewhisper,comparedtothe"joyofangels"overonesinnertaughttoseethefollyofsin,andtoseekChrist?Oh,comeandaddtothatjoywithoutdelay!

If you love life, I beseech you to lay hold onChrist at once, that your soulmay besaved.Whynotdo it today?Whynot thisday join yourself to theLord Jesus in aneverlasting covenant which cannot be broken?Why not resolve, before tomorrow'ssundawns,toturnfromtheserviceofsin,andturntoChrist?WhynotgotoChristthisveryday,andcastyoursoulonHim,withallitssinsandallitsunbelief,withall

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itsdoubtsandallitsfears?

Areyoupoor?Seektreasureinheavenandberich.Areyouold?Hasten,hastentobeready for your end, andprepare tomeet yourGod. Are you young?Beginwell, andseek inChristanever-failing friend,whowillnever forsakeyou.Areyou in trouble,anxiousabout this life?SeekHimwhoalone canhelp youandbear yourburdens—seekHimwhowillneverdisappointyou.Whenothersturntheirbacksuponyou,thenwillJesusChristtheLordtakeyouup.Areyouasinner,agreatsinner,asinneroftheworstdescription?ItshallallberememberednomoreifyouonlycometoChrist—Hisblood shall cleanse all sin away.Thoughyour sinsbe as scarlet, they shall bemadewhiteassnow.

Gothen,andcrytotheLordJesusChrist.Thinkofthevalueofyoursoul,andthinkoftheonewayofsalvation.CallontheLordinearnestprayer.Doasthepenitentthiefdid—pourout yourheartbeforeHim—cry, "Lord rememberme, evenme!"Tell himyoucometoHim,becauseyouhaveheardthatHe"receivessinners,"andbecauseyouareasinnerandwanttobesaved.TellHimthewholestoryofyourpastlife.TellHim,if you will, that you have been an unbeliever, a profligate, a Sabbath-breaker, agodless,reckless,ill-temperedman.Hewillnotdespiseyou.Hewillnotcastyouout.HewillnotturnHisbackuponyou.Heneverbreaksthebruisedreed,orquenchesthesmoking flax.Nomanever came toHimandwas cast out.Oh, come toChrist, andyoursoulshalllive!

(3)MylastwordofapplicationshallbeanaffectionateEXHORTATION toeveryreader of this paperwhohas foundout the valueofhis soul, andbelieved in JesusChrist.Thatexhortationshallbeshortandsimple.IbeseechyoutocleavetotheLordwithallyourheart,andtopresstowardsthemarkfortheprizeofyourhighcalling.

Icanwellconceivethatyoufindyourwayverynarrow.Therearefewwithyou—andmanyagainstyou.Yourlotinlifemayseemhard,andyourpositionmaybedifficult.ButstillcleavetotheLord,andHewillnever forsakeyou.Cleaveto theLord inthemidstofpersecution.CleavetotheLord,thoughmenlaughatyouandmockyou,andtrytomakeyouashamed.CleavetotheLord,thoughthecrossbeheavyandthefightbe hard. He was not ashamed of you upon the Cross of Calvary—then do not beashamedofHimuponearth,lestHeshouldbeashamedofyoubeforeHisFatherwhoisinheaven.CleavetotheLord,andHewillneverforsakeyou.Inthisworldthereareplentyofdisappointments—disappointments inproperties,and families,andhouses,and lands, and situations.Butnoman ever yetwasdisappointed inChrist.NomaneverfailedtofindChristallthattheBiblesaysHeis,andathousandtimesbetterthanhehadbeentoldbefore!

Lookforward,lookonwardandforwardtotheend!Yourbestthingsareyettocome.Timeisshort.Theendisdrawingnear.Thelatterdaysoftheworldareuponus.Fight

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thegood fight.Laboron.Workon.Striveon.Prayon.Readon.Laborhard foryourownsoul'sprosperity.Laborhard for theprosperity of the souls of others. Strive tobringafewmorewithyoutoheaven,andbyallmeanstosavesome.Dosomething,byGod'shelp, tomakeheavenmore full andhellmore empty.Speak to that youngmanbyyourside,andtothatoldpersonwholivesneartoyourhouse.Speaktothatneighborwhonevergoestoaplaceofworship.Speaktothatrelativewhoneverreadsthe Bible in private, andmakes a jest of serious religion. Entreat them all to thinkabout their souls.Beg themtogoandhearsomethingonSundayswhichwillbe fortheirgooduntoeverlastinglife.Trytopersuadethemtolive,notlikethebeastswhichperish,butlikemenwhodesiretobesaved.Greatisyourrewardinheaven,ifyoutrytodogoodtosouls.Great is therewardofallwhoconfessChristbefore thesonsofmen.

The honors of this world will soon be at an end forever. The rewards which ourgraciousQueenbestowsareonlyenjoyed fora fewshortyears.The "VictoriaCross"willnotbelongwornbythosebravesoldierswhowonitsogallantlyanddeserveitsorichly.Theplace thatknows themnowshall soonknowthemnomore—a fewmoreyears and they will be gathered to their fathers. But the crown which Christ gives,neverfades.Seekthatcrown,mybelievingreader.Laborforthatcrown.Itwillmakeamendsforallthatyouhavetopassthroughinthistroublousworld.TherewardsofChrist'ssoldiersare forevermore.Theirhomeiseternal.Theirglorynevercomes toanend!

FewSaved

I TAKE it for granted that every reader of this paper calls himself a Christian. Youwouldnotliketobereckonedadeist,oraninfidel.YouprofesstobelievetheBibletobe true. The birth of Christ the Saviour, — the death of Christ the Saviour, — thesalvationprovidedbyChristtheSaviour,—allthesearefactswhichyouhaveprobablyneverdoubted.But,afterall,willChristianitylikethisprofityouanythingatlast?Willitdoyoursoulanygoodwhenyoudie?Inoneword,—Shallyou,besaved?

It may be you are now young, healthy and strong. Perhaps you never had a day'sillness in your life, and scarcely know what it is to feel weakness and pain. Youschemeandplanforfutureyears,andfeelasifdeathwasfaraway,andoutofsight.Yet,remember,deathsometimescutsoffyoungpeopleinthefloweroftheirdays.Thestrongandhealthyofthefamilydonotalwayslivethelongest.Yoursunmaygodownbeforeyourlifehasreacheditsmid-day.Yetalittlewhile,andyoumaybelyinginanarrow, silent home, and the daisies may be growing over your grave. And then,

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consider,—Shallyoubesaved?

Itmay be you are rich and prosperous in thisworld. You havemoney, and all thatmoney can command. You have “honour, love, obedience, troops of friends.” But,remember,“richesarenotforever.”Youcannotkeepthemlongerthanafewyears.“Itisappointeduntomenoncetodie,andafterthisthejudgment.”(Prov.xxvii.24;Heb.ix.27.)Andthen,consider,—Shallyoubesaved?

It may be you are poor and needy. You have scarcely enough to provide food andraimentforyourselfandfamily.Youareoftendistressedforwantofcomforts,whichyouhavenopowertoget.LikeLazarus,youseemtohave“evil things”onlyandnotgood.But,nevertheless,youtakecomfortinthethoughtthattherewillbeanendofall this. There is a world to come, where poverty and want shall be unknown. Yet,consideramoment,—Shallyoubesaved?

Itmaybeyouhaveaweakandsicklybody.Youhardlyknowwhatitistobefreefrompain.Youhave so longparted companywithhealth, that youhave almost forgottenwhat it is like.Youhaveoften said in themorning, “WouldGod itwere evening,”—and in the evening, “Would God it were morning.” There are days when you aretemptedby veryweariness to cryoutwithJonah, “It is better forme todie than tolive.” (Jonah iv.3.)But, remember,death isnotall.There is somethingelsebeyondthegrave.Andthen,consider,—Shallyoubesaved?

Ifitwasaneasythingtobesaved,IwouldnotwriteasIdointhisvolume.Butisitso?Letussee.

If the common opinion of the world as to the number of the saved was correct, Iwouldnottroublemenwithsearchingandhardquestions.Butisitso?Letussee.

IfGodhadneverspokenplainlyintheBibleaboutthenumberofthesaved,Imightwellbesilent.Butisitso?Letussee.

Ifexperienceandfactsleft itdoubtfulwhethermanyorfewwouldbesaved,Imightholdmypeace.Butisitso?Letussee.

TherearefourpointswhichIproposetoexamineinconsideringthesubjectbeforeus.

1. I.Letmeexplainwhatitistobesaved.2. II. Let me point out the mistakes which are common in the world about the

numberofthesaved.3. LetmeshowwhattheBiblesaysaboutthenumberofthesaved.4. Letmebringforwardsomeplainfactsastothenumberofthesaved.

Acalmexaminationof these fourpoints, inadayofwide-spreadcarelessness about

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vitalreligion,willbefoundofvastimportancetooursouls.

I.Firstofallletmeexplainwhatitistobesaved.

Thisisamatterthatmustbeclearedup.Tillweknowthis,weshallmakenoprogress.Bybeing“saved”Imaymeanonething,andyoumaymeananother.LetmeshowyouwhattheBiblesaysitistobe“saved,”andthentherewillbenomisunderstanding.

Tobesaved, isnotmerely toprofessandcallourselvesChristians.WemayhavealltheoutwardpartsofChristianity, andyetbe lost after all.Wemaybe baptized intoChrist's Church,— go to Christ's table,— have Christian knowledge,— be reckonedChristianmenandwomen—andyetbedeadsoulsallourlives,—andatlast,inthejudgment day, be found on Christ's left hand, among the goats. No: this is notsalvation!Salvationissomethingfarhigheranddeeperthanthis.Nowwhatisit?

(a)To.besaved,istobedeliveredinthispresentlifefromtheguiltofsin,byfaith inJesusChrist,theSaviour.Itistobepardoned,justified,andfreedfromeverychargeofsin,byfaithinChrist'sbloodandmediation.WhosoeverwithhisheartbelievesontheLordJesusChrist,isasavedsoul.Heshallnotperish.Heshallhaveeternallife.Thisisthefirstpartofsalvation,andtherootofalltherest.Butthisisnotall.

(b)Tobesaved,istobedeliveredinthispresentlifefromthepowerofsin,bybeingbornagain,andsanctifiedbyChrist'sspirit.Itistobefreedfromthehatefuldominionofsin,theworld,andthedevil,byhavinganewnatureputinusbytheHolyGhost.Whosoever is thusrenewed in thespiritofhismind,andconverted, isasavedsoul.He shall not perish. He shall enter into the glorious kingdom of God. This is thesecondpartofsalvation.Butthisisnotall.

(c) To be saved, is to be delivered in the day of judgment, from all the awfulconsequencesofsin.Itistobedeclaredblameless,spotless,faultless,andcompleteinChrist, while others are found guilty, and condemned for ever. It is to hear thosecomfortable words, — “Come, ye blessed!” while others are hearing those fearfulwords,—“Depart,yecursed!” (Matt.xxv.34,41.) It is tobeownedandconfessedbyChrist,asoneofHisdearchildrenandservants,whileothersaredisownedandcastoffforever.It istobepronouncedfree fromtheportionof thewicked,—thewormthatneverdies,—thefirethatisnotquenched,—theweeping,wailing,andgnashingofteeth,thatneverends.Itistoreceivetherewardpreparedfortherighteous,intheday of Christ's second coming; — the glorious body, — the kingdom that isincorruptible,— the crown that fadeth not away,—and the joy that is for evermore.Thisiscompletesalvation.Thisisthe“redemption”forwhichtrueChristiansarebidto look and long. (Luke xxi. 25.) This is the heritage of all men and women whobelieveand are born again. By faith they are saved already. In the eye ofGod theirfinalsalvationisanabsolutelycertainthing.Theirnamesareinthebookoflife.Their

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mansionsinheavenareevennowpreparedButstillthereisafulnessofredemptionandsalvationwhichtheydonotattaintowhile theyare in thebody.Theyaresavedfromtheguiltandpowerofsin;—butnotfromthenecessityofwatchingandprayingagainst it.Theyare saved from the fear and loveof theworld ;—butnot from thenecessityofdailyfightingwithit.Theyaresavedfromtheserviceofthedevil;—buttheyarenotsaved frombeingvexedbyhis temptations.ButwhenChristcomes thesalvationofbelieversshallbecomplete.Theypossessitalreadyinthebud.Theyshallseeitthenintheflower.

Suchissalvation.Itistobesavedfromtheguilt,power,andconsequencesofsin.Itistobelieveandbesanctifiednow,andtobedeliveredfromthewrathofGodinthelastday. He that has the first part in the life that now is, shall undoubtedly have thesecondpart inthe life tocome.Bothpartsof ithang together.WhatGodhas joinedtogether, letnomandare toput asunder.Letnonedreamhe shall everbe saved atlast,ifheisnotbornagainfirst.Letnonedoubt,ifheisbornagainhere,thatheshallassuredlybesavedhereafter.

Let it never be forgotten that the chief object of aminister of the Gospel is to setforwardthesalvationofsouls.Ilayitdownasacertainfactthatheisnotrueministerwhodoesnotfeelthis.Talknotofaman'sorders!Allmayhavebeendonecorrectly,andaccordingtorule.Hemaywearablackcoat,andbecalleda“reverend”man.Butifthe saving of souls is not the grand interest— the ruling passion— the absorbingthoughtofhisheart,—heisnotrueministeroftheGospel:heisahireling,andnotashepherd. Congregations may have called him, — but he is not called by the HolyGhostBishopsmayhaveordainedhim,—butnotChrist.

Forwhatpurposedomensupposethatministersaresentforth?Isitmerelytowearasurplice,— and read the services,— andpreach a certainnumber of sermons? Is itmerely to administer the sacraments, and officiate at weddings and funerals? Is itmerelytogetacomfortableliving,andbeinarespectableprofession?No,indeed!weare sent forth forotherends than these.Weare sent to turnmen fromdarkness tolight, and from the power of Satan untoGod.We are sent to persuademen to fleefromthewrathtocome.Wearesenttodrawmenfromtheserviceoftheworldtotheservice of God, — to awaken the sleeping, — to arouse the careless, — and “by allmeanstosavesome.”(1Cor.ix.22.)

Thinknotthatallisdonewhenwehavesetupregularservices,andpersuadedpeopletoattendthem.Thinknotthatallisdone,whenfullcongregationsaregathered,andtheLord's table iscrowded,andtheparish school is filled.Wewant to seemanifestworkoftheSpiritamongpeople,—anevidentsenseofsin,—alivelyfaithinChrist,—adecided changeofheart,—adistinct separation from theworld,—aholywalkwithGod.Inoneword,wewanttoseesoulssaved;andwearefoolsandimpostors,—blindleadersoftheblind,—ifwerestsatisfiedwithanythingless.

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Afterallthegrandobjectofhavingareligionistobesaved.Thisisthegreatquestionthatwehave to settlewithourconsciences.Thematter forour consideration isnotwhether we go to church or chapel, — whether we go through certain forms andceremonies, — whether we observe certain days, and perform a certain number ofreligiousduties.Thematteriswhether,afterall,weshallbe“saved.”Withoutthisallourreligiousdoingsarewearinessandlabourinvain.

Never,never letusbecontentwithanythingshortofasavingreligion.Surely tobesatisfiedwithareligionwhichneithergivespeaceinlife,norhopeindeath,norgloryintheworldtocome,ischildishfolly.

II.Letme,inthesecondplace,pointoutthemistakeswhicharecommonintheworldaboutthenumberofthesaved.

Ineednotgofarforevidenceonthissubject.Iwillspeakofthingswhicheverymanmayseewithhisowneyes,andhearwithhisownears.

Iwill try toshowthat there isawide-spreaddelusionabroadabout thismatter,andthatthisverydelusionisoneofthegreatestdangerstowhichoursoulsareexposed.

(a)Whatthendomengenerallythinkaboutthespiritualstateofotherswhiletheyarealive?Whatdotheythinkofthesoulsoftheirrelations,andfriends,andneighbours,andacquaintances?Letusjustseehowthatquestioncanbeanswered.

Theyknow thatall around themaregoing todie, and tobe judged.Theyknow thattheyhavesoulstobelostorsaved.Andwhat,toallappearance,dotheyconsidertheirendislikelytobe?

Dotheythinkthosearoundthemareindangerofhell?Thereisnothingwhatever toshowtheythinkso.Theyeatanddrinktogether;theylaugh,andtalk,andwalk,andworktogether.TheyseldomorneverspeaktooneanotherofGodandeternity,—ofheavenandofhell.Iaskanyone,whoknowstheworld,asinthesightofGod,isitnotso?

Willtheyallowthatanybodyiswickedorungodly?Never,hardly,whatevermaybehiswayoflife.HemaybeabreakeroftheSabbath;hemaybeaneglecteroftheBible;hemaybeutterlywithoutevidenceoftruereligion.Nomatter!Hisfriendswilloftentellyou,thathemaynotmakesomuchprofessionassome,butthathehasa“goodheart”at thebottom, and isnot awickedman. I ask anyone,whoknows theworld, as inGod'ssight,isitnotso?

Andwhatdoesallthisprove?Itprovesthatmenflatterthemselvesthereisnogreatdifficulty in getting to heaven. It proves plainly that men are of opinion that most

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personswillbesaved.

(b)Butwhatdomengenerallythinkaboutthatspiritualstateofothersaftertheyaredead?Letusjustseehowthisquestioncanbeanswered.

Menallow,iftheyarenotinfidels,thatallwhodiehavegonetoaplaceofhappiness,orofmisery.Andtowhichofthesetwoplacesdotheyseemtothinkthegreaterpartofpersonsgo,whentheyleavethisworld?

I say, without fear of contradiction, that there is an unhappily common fashion ofspeaking well of the condition of all who have departed this life. It matters little,apparently, how aman has behavedwhile he lived.Hemay have given no signs ofrepentance,orfaithinChrist;hemayhavebeenignorantoftheplanofsalvationsetforth in the Gospel; he may have shown no evidence whatever of conversion orsanctification;hemayhave livedanddied likeacreaturewithoutasoul.Andyet,assoonasthismanisdead,peoplewilldaretosaythatheis“probablyhappierthaneverhewasinhis life.”Theywill tellyoucomplacently,they“hopeheisgonetoabetterworld.”Theywillshaketheirheadsgravely,andsaythey“hopeheisinheaven.”Theywill follow him to the grave without fear and trembling, and speak of his deathafterwardsas “ablessed change forhim.”Theymayhavedislikedhim, and thoughthimabadmanwhilehewasalive;butthemomentheisdeadtheyturnroundintheiropinions and say they trust he is gone to heaven! I havenowish to hurt any one'sfeelings.Ionlyaskanyone,whoknowstheworld,—Isitnottrue?

And what does it all prove? It just supplies one more awful proof that men aredetermined to believe it is an easy business to get to heaven.Menwill have it thatmostpersonsaresaved.

(c)Butagain,whatdomengenerallythinkofministerswhopreachfullythedoctrinesoftheNewTestament?Letusseehowthisquestioncanbeanswered.

Sendaclergymanintoaparishwhoshall“declareallthecounselofGod,”and“keepback nothing that is profitable.” Let him be one who shall clearly proclaimjustificationbyfaith,—regenerationbytheSpirit,—andholinessof life.Lethimbeonewho shall draw the line distinctly between the converted and the unconverted,andgivebothtosinnersandtosaintstheirportion.LethimfrequentlyproduceoutoftheNewTestamentaplain,unanswerabledescriptionofthetrueChristian'scharacter.Let him show that no man who does not possess that character can have anyreasonable hope of being saved. Let him constantly press that description on theconsciencesofhishearers,andurgeupon themrepeatedly thatevery soulwhodieswithoutthatcharacterwillbelost.Lethimdothis,ablyandaffectionately,andafter

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all,whatwilltheresultbe?

Theresultwillbe,thatwhilesomefewrepentandaresaved,thegreatmajorityofhishearerswillnotreceiveandbelievehisdoctrine.Theymaynotopposehimpublicly.Theymayevenesteemhim,andrespecthimasanearnest,sincere,kind-heartedman,whomeanswell.Buttheywillgonofurther.HemayshowthemtheexpresswordsofChristandHisApostles;hemayquote textupontext,andpassageuponpassage : itwillbetonopurpose.Thegreatmajorityofhishearerswillthinkhim“toostrict,”and“tooclose,”and“tooparticular.”Theywillsayamongthemselves,thattheworldisnotsobad as theminister seems to think,— and that people cannot be so good as theministerwantsthemtobe,—andthatafterall,theyhopetheyshallbeallrightatthelast! Iappeal toanyministerof theGospel,whohasbeenany lengthof time in theministry,whetherIamnotstatingthetruth.Arenotthesethingsso?

Andwhatdoesitprove?Itjustmakesonemoreproofthatmengenerallyareresolvedtothinkthatsalvationisnotaveryhardbusiness,andthatafterallmostpeoplewillbesaved.

Now what solid reason canmen show us for these common opinions? Upon whatScripturedotheybuildthisnotion,thatsalvationisaneasybusiness,andthatmostpeoplewillbesaved?WhatrevelationofGodcantheyshowus,tosatisfyusthattheseopinionsaresoundandtrue?

Theyhavenone,—literallynoneatall.TheyhavenotatextofScripturewhich,fairlyinterpreted,supportstheirviews.Theyhavenotareasonwhichwillbearexamination.Theyspeaksmooththingsaboutoneanother'sspiritualstate,justbecausetheydonotlike to allow there is danger. They build up one another into an easy, self-satisfiedstateofsoul,inordertosoothetheirconsciencesandmakethingspleasant.Theycry“Peace, peace,” over one another's graves, because theywant it to be so, andwouldfain persuade themselves that so it is. Surely against such hollow, foundationlessopinionsasthese,aministeroftheGospelmaywellprotest.

The plain truth is that the world's opinion is worth nothing inmatters of religion.Aboutthepriceofanox,orahorse,orafarm,orthevalueoflabour,—aboutwagesandwork,—aboutmoney,cotton,coals,ironandcorn,—aboutarts,andsciences,andmanufactures,—about railways, andcommerce, and trade, andpolitics,—aboutallsuchthingsthemenoftheworldmaygiveacorrectopinion.Butwemustbeware,ifwelovelife,ofbeingguidedbyman'sjudgmentinthethingsthatconcernsalvation.“ThenaturalmanreceivethnotthethingsoftheSpiritofGod,fortheyarefoolishnessuntohim.”(1Cor.ii.14.)

Letusremember,aboveall,thatitneverwilldotothinkasothersdo,ifwewanttogettoheaven.Nodoubtitiseasyworkto“gowiththecrowd”inreligiousmatters.Itwill

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save usmuch trouble to swimwith the stream and tide.We shall be sparedmuchridicule:weshallbefreedfrommuchunpleasantness.Butletusremember,onceforall,thattheworld'smistakesaboutsalvationaremanyanddangerous.Unlessweareonourguardagainstthemweshallneverbesaved.

III. Let me show, in the third place,what the Bible says about the number of thesaved.

There is only one standard of truth and error to which we ought to appeal. Thatstandard is the Holy Scripture. Whatsoever is there written we must receive andbelieve:whatsoevercannotbeprovedbyScriptureweoughttorefuse.

Cananyreaderofthispapersubscribetothis?Ifhecannot,thereislittlechanceofhisbeingmovedbyanywordsofmine.Ifhecan,lethimgivemehisattentionforafewmoments,andIwilltellhimsomesolemnthings.

Letuslook,then,foronething,atonesingletextofScripture,andexamineitwell.WeshallfinditinMatthewvii.13,14:—“Enteryeinatthestraitgate:forwideisthegate,and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go inthereat:becausestraitisthegate,andnarrowisthewaywhichleadethuntolife,andfewtherebethatfindit.”NowthesearethewordsofourLordJesusChrist.TheyarethewordsofHimwhowasveryGod,andwhosewordsshallneverpassaway.TheyarethewordsofHimwhoknewwhatwasinman,—whoknewthingstocome,andthingspast,—whoknew thatHe should judge allmenat the last day.Andwhat do thosewordsmean?AretheywordswhichnomancanunderstandwithoutaknowledgeofHebrew or Greek?No: they are not! Are they a dark, unfulfilled prophecy, like thevisions in Revelation, or the description of Ezekiel's temple? No: they are not! Arethey a deepmysterious saying,whichno human intellect can fathom?No: they arenot! Thewords are clear, plain, and unmistakable. Ask any labouringmanwho canroad, and he will toll you so. There is only onemeaning which can be attached tothem.Theirmeaningis,thatmanypeoplewillbelost,andfewwillbefoundsaved.

Letuslook,inthenextplace,atthewholehistoryofmankindasrespectsreligion,aswehaveitgivenintheBible.Letusgothroughthewholefourthousandyears,overwhichthehistoryoftheBiblereaches.Letusfind,ifwecan,onesingleperiodoftimeatwhichgodlypeopleweremany,,andungodlypeoplewerefew.

How was it in the days of Noah?The earth we are told expressly was “filled withviolence.”Theimaginationofman'sheartwasonly“evilcontinually.”(Gen.vi.5,12.)“Allfleshhadcorruptedhisway.”Thelossofparadisewasforgotten.ThewarningsofGod, byNoah'smouth, were despised. And. at length, when the flood came on theworld and drowned every living thing, there were but eight people who had faithenough to flee for refuge to theark!Andwere theremanysaved in thosedays?Let

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anyhonestreaderoftheBiblegiveananswertothatquestion.Therecanbenodoubtwhattheanswermustbe.

How was it in the days of Abraham, and Isaac, and Lot? It is evident that in thematterofreligiontheystoodverymuchalone.Thefamilyfromwhichtheyweretakenwas a family of idolaters. The nations among whom they lived were sunk in grossdarkness and sin. When Sodom and Gomorrah were burned there were not fiverighteouspeopletobefoundinthefourcitiesoftheplain.WhenAbrahamandIsaacdesired to findwives for their sons, therewasnot awoman in the landwhere theysojournedtowhomtheycouldwishtoseethemmarried.Andweretheremanysavedin those days? Let any honest reader of the Bible give an answer to that question.Therecanbenodoubtwhattheanswermustbe.

HowwasitwithIsraelinthedaysoftheJudges?NoonecanreadthebookofJudges,andnotbe struckwith the sadexamplesofman's corruptionwhich it affords.TimeaftertimewearetoldofthepeopleforsakingGod,andfollowingidols.Inspiteoftheplainestwarnings, they joinedaffinitywith theCanaanites,and learned theirworks.Time after timewe read of their being oppressed by foreign kings, because of theirsins, and then miraculously delivered. Time after time we read of the deliverancebeingforgotten,andofthepeoplereturningtotheirformersins, likethesowthatiswashedtoherwallowinginthemire.Andweretheremanysavedinthosedays?LetanyhonestreaderoftheBiblegiveananswertothatquestion.Therecanbenodoubtwhattheanswermustbe.

Howwas itwith Israel in thedaysof theKings?FromSaul, the first king, down toZedekiah, the last king, their history is a melancholy account of backsliding, anddeclension,andidolatry,—withafewbrightexceptionalperiods.Evenunderthebestkingsthereseemstohavebeenavastamountofunbeliefandungodliness,whichonlylayhidforaseason,andburstoutatthefirst favourableopportunity.Overandoveragain we find that under the most zealous kings “the high places were not takenaway.”MarkhowevenDavidspeaksofthestateofthingsaroundhim:“Help,Lord,forthegodlymanceaseth;forthefaithfulfailfromamongthechildrenofmen.”(Psalmxii.1.)MarkhowIsaiahdescribestheconditionofJudahandJerusalem:“Thewholeheadissick,andthewholeheartfaint.Fromthesoleofthefoot,evenuntothecrownofthehead,thereisnosoundnessinit.”—“ExcepttheLordofHostshadleftuntousaverysmallremnant,weshouldhavebeenasSodom,andshouldhavebeenlikeuntoGomorrah.”(Isaiahi.5-9.)MarkhowJeremiahdescribeshistime:“RunyetoandfrothroughthestreetsofJerusalem,andseenow,andknow,andseekinthebroadplacesthereof,ifyecanfindaman,iftherebeanythatexecutethjudgment,thatseekeththetruth, and I will pardon it.” (Jer. v. 1.)Mark howEzekiel speaks of themen of histimes:“ThewordoftheLordcameuntome,saying,Sonofman,thehouseofIsraelistomebecomedross:alltheyarebrass,andiron,andtinandleadinthemidstofthefurnace:theyareeventhedrossofsilver.”(Ezek.xxii.17,18.)Markwhathesaysinthe

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sixteenthandtwenty-thirdchaptersofhisprophecyaboutthekingdomsofJudahandIsrael.Andweretheremanysavedinthosedays?Letanyhonestreaderof theBiblegiveananswertothatquestion.Therecanbenodoubtwhattheanswermustbe.

Howwas itwith theJewswhenourLordJesusChristwasonearth?Thewords ofSaintJohnarethebestaccountoftheirspiritualstate:“HecameuntoHisown,andHisownreceivedHimnot.”(Johni.11.)Helivedasnoonebornofwomanhadeverlivedbefore,—ablameless,harmless,holylife.“Hewentaboutdoinggood.”(Actsx.38.)He preached as no one ever preached before. Even the officers of his enemiesconfessed,“Nevermanspakelikethisman.”(Johnvii.46.)HedidmiraclestoconfirmHisministry,which, at first sight,wemighthave fanciedwouldhave convinced themosthardened.But,notwithstandingallthis,thevastmajorityoftheJewsrefusedtobelieveHim.FollowourLordinallHistravelsoverPalestine,andyouwillalwaysfindthesamestory.FollowHimintothecity,andfollowHimintothewilderness;followHimtoCapernaumandNazareth, and followHim toJerusalem; followHimamongScribesandPharisees,andfollowHimamongSadduceesandHerodians:everywhereyouwill arriveat the sameresult.Theywereamazed;— theywere silenced;— theywere astonished;— theywondered;—but very fewbecamedisciples!The immenseproportion of the nation would have none of His doctrine, and crowned all theirwickednessbyputtingHimtodeath.Andwere theremanysaved in thosedays?LetanyhonestreaderoftheBiblegiveananswertothatquestion.Therecanbenodoubtwhattheanswermustbe.

HowwasitwiththeworldinthedaysoftheApostles?Ifevertherewasaperiodwhentrue religion flourished it was then. Never did the Holy Ghost call into the fold ofChrist so many souls in the same space of time. Never were there so manyconversionsunderthepreachingoftheGospelaswhenPaulandhisfellow-labourerswere the preachers. But still, it is plain from the Acts of the Apostles, that trueChristianitywas “everywhere spoken against.” (Acts xxviii. 22.) It is evident that ineverycity,eveninJerusalemitself,trueChristianswereasmallminority.Wereadofperils of all kinds which the Apostles had to go through, — not only perils fromwithout,butperils fromwithin,—notonlyperils fromtheheathen,butperils fromfalse brethren.We hardly read of a single city visited by Paulwhere hewas not indangerfromopenviolence.andpersecution.Weseeplainly,bysomeofhisepistles,that the professing Churches weremixed bodies, in which there weremany rottenmembers.We find him telling the Philippians a painful part of his experience,— ”Manywalk,ofwhomItellyou,evenweeping,thattheyaretheenemiesofthecrossofChrist;whose end is destruction,whose god is their belly, andwhose glory is theirshame,whomindearthly things.” (Philip, iii. 18,19.)Andwere theremanysaved inthosedays?LetanyhonestreaderoftheBiblegiveananswertothisquestion.Therecanbenodoubtwhatthatanswermustbe.

Iaskanyhonest-mindedunprejudicedreaderofthevolumetoweighwellthelessons

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of theBiblewhichIhave justbrought forward.Surely theyareweightyandsolemn,anddeserveseriousattention.

LetnoonethinktoevadetheirforcebysayingthattheBibleonlytellsthestoryoftheJews. Think not to comfort yourself by saying that “perhaps the Jews were morewicked than other nations, and many people were probably saved among othernations,thoughfewweresavedamongtheJews.”Youforgetthatthisargumenttellsagainstyou.YouforgetthattheJewshadlightandprivilegeswhichtheGentileshadnot, and with all their sins and faults, were probably the holiest and most moralnation upon earth. As to the moral state of people among the Assyrians, andEgyptians,andGreeks,andRomans,itisfearfultothinkwhatitmusthavebeen.Butthiswemaybesureof,—thatifmanywereungodlyamongtheJews,thenumberwasfargreateramong theGentiles. If fewwere saved in thegreen tree,alas,howmuchfewermusthavebeensavedinthedry!

Thesumof thewholematter is this: theBibleandthemenof theworldspeakverydifferentlyaboutthenumberof thesaved.AccordingtotheBible, fewwillbesaved:accordingtothemenoftheworld,many.—Accordingtothemenoftheworldfewaregoingtohell:accordingtotheBiblefewaregoingtoheaven.—Accordingtothemenof theworld salvation is an easybusiness: according to theBible theway isnarrowandthegate isstrait.—According to themenof theworld fewwillbe foundat lastseekingadmissionintoheavenwhentoolate:accordingtotheBiblemanywillbeinthat sad condition, andwill cry in vain, “Lord, Lord, open to us.” Yet the Biblewasnever wrong yet. The most unlikely and improbable prophecies about Tyre, Egypt,Babylon,andNineveh,haveallcometruetotheletter.Andasinothermatters,soitwillbeaboutthenumberofthesaved.TheBiblewillprovequiterightandthemenoftheworldquitewrong.

IV.Letmeshow,inthelastplace,someplainfactsaboutthenumberofthesaved.

Iaskparticularattentiontothispartofthesubject.

Iknowwellthatpeopleflatterthemselvesthattheworldisfarbetterandwiserthanitwas1800yearsago.Wehavechurches,andschools,andbooks.Wehavecivilization,andliberty,andgoodlaws.Wehaveafarhigherstandardofmoralityinsocietythanthatwhichonceprevailed.Wehavethepowerofobtainingcomfortsandenjoymentswhichourforefathersknewnothingof.Steam,andgas,andelectricity,andchemistry,haveeffectedwondersforus.Allthisisperfectlytrue.Iseeit,andIamthankful.Butallthisdoesnotdiminishtheimportanceofthequestion;—Aretherefewormanyofuslikelytobesaved?

Iamthoroughlysatisfiedthattheimportanceofthisquestionispainfullyoverlooked.Iampersuadedthattheviewsofmostpeopleaboutthequantityofunbeliefandsinin

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theworld,areutterlyinadequateandincorrect.Iamconvincedthatveryfewpeople,whetherministersorprivateChristians,atallrealizehowfewthereareinawaytobesaved.Iwanttodrawattentiontothesubject,andIwillthereforebringforwardafewplainfactsaboutit.

Butwhere shall I go for these facts? Imight easily turn to themillionsofheathen,whoinvariouspartsoftheworldareworshippingtheyknownotwhat.ButIshallnotdo so.— Imight easily turn to themillionsofMahometanswhohonour theKoranmorethantheBible,andthefalseprophetofMeccamorethanChrist.ButIshallnotdoso.—ImighteasilyturntothemillionsofRomanCatholicswhoaremakingtheWordofGodofnoneeffectbytheirtraditions.ButIshallnotdoso.Ishalllooknearerhome.IshalldrawmyfactsfromthelandinwhichIlive,andthenaskeveryhonestreaderwhetheritbenotstrictlytruethatfewaresaved.

I invite any intelligent reader of these pages to imagine himself in any parish inProtestantEnglandorScotlandatthisday.Choosewhichyouplease,atownparish,oracountryparish,—agreatparishorasmall.LetustakeourNewTestamentsinourhands.Letussift theChristianityof the inhabitantsof thisparish, familyby family,andman by man. Let us put on one side any one who does not possess the NewTestament evidenceof being a trueChristian.Letusdealhonestly and fairly in theinvestigation,andnotallowanyonetobeatrueChristianwhodoesnotcomeuptotheNewTestamentstandardoffaithandpractice.Letuscounteverymanasavedsoulinwhomwesee somethingofChrist,— someevidenceof true repentance,— someevidenceofsavingfaithinJesus,—someevidenceofrealevangelicalholiness.Letusrejecteverymaninwhom,onthemostcharitableconstruction,wecannotsee theseevidences, as one “weighed in the balances, and found wanting.” Let us apply thissiftingprocesstoanyparishinthisland,andseewhattheresultwouldbe.

(a)Letussetaside,firstofall,thosepersonsinaparishwhoarelivinginanykindofopensin.BytheseImeansuchas fornicators,andadulterers,and liars,andthieves,anddrunkards, and cheats, and revilers, and extortioners.About these I think therecan be no difference of opinion. The Bible says plainly, that “they which do suchthings,shallnotinheritthekingdomofGod.”(Gal.v.21.)Nowwillthesepersonsbesaved?Theansweriscleartomyownmind:Intheirpresentconditiontheywillnot.

(b) Let us set aside, in the next place, those persons who are Sabbath-breakers. Imeanbythisexpression,thosewhoseldomornevergotoaplaceofworship, thoughtheyhavethepower,—thosewhodonotgivetheSabbathtoGod,buttothemselves,— those who think of nothing but doing their own ways, and finding their ownpleasure upon Sundays. They show plainly that they are not meet for heaven! Theinhabitants of heaven would be company they could not like. The employments ofheaven - would be a weariness to them, and not a joy. Now will these persons besaved?Theansweriscleartomymind:Intheirpresentconditiontheywillnot.

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(c) Let us set aside, in the next place, all those persons who are careless andthoughtless Christians. I mean by this expression, those who attend many of theoutward ordinances of religion, but show no signs of taking any real interest in itsdoctrinesandsubstance.Theycare”littlewhethertheministerpreachestheGospelornot.Theycarelittlewhethertheyhearagoodsermonornot.TheywouldcarelittleifalltheBiblesintheworldwereburned.TheywouldcarelittleifanActofParliamentwere passed forbidding any one to pray. In short, religion is not the “ one thingneedful”with them.Their treasure isonearth.Theyare just likeGallio, towhom itmattered littlewhetherpeoplewereJewsorChristians:he “cared fornoneof thesethings.” (Actsxviii. 17.)Nowwill thesepersonsbe saved?Theanswer is clear tomyownmind:Intheirpresentconditiontheywillnot.

(d)Letussetaside,inthenextplace,allthosewhoareformalistsandself-righteous.Imeanbythisexpression,thosewhovaluethemselvesontheirownregularityintheuseoftheformsofChristianity,anddependeitherdirectlyorindirectlyontheirowndoingsfortheiracceptancewithGod.ImeanallwhoresttheirsoulsonanyworkbuttheworkofChrist,oranyrighteousnessbuttherighteousnessofChrist.OfsuchtheApostlePaulhasexpresslytestified,“Bythedeedsof the lawshallnoflesh livingbejustified.” — “Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is JesusChrist.” (Rom. iii. 20; 1Cor. iii. 11.)Anddarewe say, in the face of such texts, thatsuch as thesewill be saved? The answer is plain tomy ownmind: In their presentconditiontheywillnot.

(e)Letussetaside,inthenextplace,allthosewhoknowtheGospelwiththeirheads,butdonotobeyitwiththeirhearts.Thesearethoseunhappypersonswhohaveeyestoseethewayoflife,buthavenotwillorcouragetowalkinit.Theyapprovesounddoctrine.Theywillnot listen topreachingwhichdoesnotcontain it.But the fear ofman, or the cares of the world, or the love of money, or the dread of offendingrelations,perpetuallyholdsthemback.Theywillnotcomeoutboldly,andtakeupthecross,andconfessChristbeforemen.OfthesealsotheBiblespeaksexpressly:“Faith,if ithathnotworks, isdead,beingalone.”— “Tohim thatknoweth todogood, anddoethitnot,tohimitissin.”—“IfanymanisashamedofMeandofmywords,ofhimwill the Son ofman be ashamedwhenHe shall come inHis own glory, and inHisFather's,andoftheholyangels.”(Jamesii.17; iv.17;Luke ix.26.)Shallwesay thatsuch as thesewill be saved? The answer is clear tomy ownmind: In their presentconditiontheywillnot.

(f)Letussetaside,inthelastplace,allthosewhoarehypocriticalprofessors.Imeanbythatexpression,allthosewhosereligionconsistsintalkandhighprofession,andinnothing besides. These are they ofwhom the prophetEzekiel speaks, saying, “Withtheirmouththeyshowmuchlove,buttheirheartgoethaftertheircovetousness.”—“TheyprofessthattheyknowGod,butinworkstheydenyHim.”—They“haveaformofgodliness,buttheyhavenotthepowerofit.”(Ezek.xxxiii.31;Titusi.16;2Tim.iii.

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5.)Theyaresaintsatchurch,andsaintstotalktoinpublic.Buttheyarenotsaintsinprivate,andintheirownhomes;andworstofall, theyarenotsaints inheart.Therecanbenodisputeaboutsuchpersons.Shallwesaythattheywillbesaved?Therecanonlybeoneanswer:Intheirpresentconditiontheywillnot.

Andnow,aftersettingasidetheseclasseswhichIhavedescribed,Iaskanysensiblethinkingreader to tellmehowmanypersons inanyparish inEnglandwill therebeleftbehind?Howmany,aftersiftingaparishthoroughlyandhonestly,—howmanymenandwomenwillremainwhoareinawaytobesaved?Howmanytruepenitents,—how many real believers in Christ, — how many truly holy people will there befound? I put it to the conscience of every reader of this volume to give an honestanswer,asinthesightofGod.Iaskyouwhether,aftersiftingaparishwiththeBibleinthefashiondescribed,youcancometoanyconclusionbutthis,—thatfewpersons,—sadlyfewpersons,areinawaytobesaved?

It is a painful conclusion to arrive at, but I knownot how it canbe avoided. It is afearfulandtremendousthought,thatthereshouldbesomanychurchmeninEngland,and somany dissenters, somany seat-holders, and so many pew-renters, so manyhearers,andsomanycommunicants,—andyet,afterall,sofewinawaytobesaved!Buttheonlyquestionis,Isitnottrue?—Itisvaintoshutoureyesagainstfacts.Itisuselesstopretendnottoseewhatisgoingonaroundus.ThestatementsoftheBibleand the factsof theworldwe live inwill leadus to the sameconclusion:Many arebeinglost,and,fewbeingsaved!

(a)IknowwellthatmanydonotbelievewhatIamsaying,becausetheythinkthereisan immense quantity of death-bed repentance. They flatter themselves thatmultitudes who do not live religious lives will yet die religious deaths. They takecomfortinthethoughtthatvastnumbersofpersonsturntoGodintheirlastillnessand are saved at the eleventh hour. I will only remind such persons that all theexperienceofministersisutterlyagainstthetheory.Peoplegenerallydiejustastheyhave lived. True repentance is never too late:—but repentance deferred to the lasthoursof life isseldomtrue.Aman's life is thesurestevidenceofhisspiritualstate,andiflivesaretobewitnesses,thenfewarelikelytobesaved.

(b) I know well thatmany do not believe what I am saying, because they fancy itcontradicts themercy of God.They dwell on the love to sinners which the Gospelreveals.

Theypoint to theoffersofpardonand forgivenesswhichabound in theBible. Theyask us if wemaintain, in the face of all this, that only few people will be saved. Ianswer,IwillgoasfarasanyoneinexaltingGod'smercyinChrist,butIcannotshutmyeyesagainstthefactthatthismercyprofitsnomansolongasitiswilfullyrefused.Iseenothingwanting,onGod'spart,forman'ssalvation.Iseeroominheavenforthe

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chiefofsinners.IseewillingnessinChristtoreceivethemostungodly.IseepowerintheHolyGhost to renew themostungodly.But I see, on theotherhand,desperateunbelief inman:hewillnotbelievewhatGodtellshimintheBible. Iseedesperatepride inman:hewill not bowhis heart to receive theGospel as a little child. I seedesperateslothinman:hewillnottakethetroubletoariseandcalluponGod.Iseedesperateworldlinessinman:hewillnotloosehisholdonthepoorperishablethingsof time, and consider eternity. In short, I see the words of our Lord continuallyverified: “Ye will not come unto Me, that ye might have life.” (John v. 40), andthereforeIamdriventothesorrowfulconclusionthatfewarelikelytobesaved.

(c) Iknowwell thatmanywillnotbelievewhat Iamsaying,because they refuse toobservetheevil there is intheworld.Theylive in themidstofa littlecircleofgoodpeople:theyknowlittleofanythingthatgoesonintheworldoutsidethatcircle.Theytellustheworldisaworldwhichisrapidlyimprovingandgoingontoperfection.Theycountupon their fingers thenumberof goodministerswhom theyhaveheard andseeninthelastyear.Theycallourattentiontothenumberofreligioussocieties,andreligiousmeetings,tothemoneywhich issubscribed, to theBiblesandtractswhicharebeingconstantlydistributed.Theyaskusifwereallydaretosay,inthefaceofallthis, that feware in theway tobe saved. In reply, Iwill only remind these amiablepeople, that there are other people in the world besides their own little circle, andother men and women besides the chosen few whom they know in their owncongregation. I entreat them to open their eyes, and see things as they really are. Iassure them there are things going on in this country of ours of which they are atpresentinhappyignorance.IaskthemtosiftanyparishorcongregationinEngland,with the Bible, before they condemn me hastily. I tell them, if they will do thishonestly,theywillsoonfindthatIamnotfarwrong,whenIsaythatfewarelikelytobesaved.

(d)Iknowwellthatmanywillnotbelieveme,becausetheythinksuchadoctrineverynarrow-mindedandexclusive.Iutterlydenythecharge.IdisclaimanysympathywiththoseChristianswhocondemneverybodyoutsidetheirowncommunion,andappeartoshutthedoorofheavenagainsteverybodywhodoesnotseeeverythingwiththeireyes.WhetherRomanCatholics,orEpiscopalians,orFreeChurchmen,orBaptists,orPlymouthBrethren,whosoeverdoesanythingofthiskind,Ireckonhimanexclusiveman.Ihavenodesiretoshutupthekingdomofheavenagainstanyone.AllIsayis,thatnonewillenterthatkingdom,exceptconverted,believing,andholysouls;andallItakeonmyselftoassertis,thatboththeBibleandfactscombinetoprovethatsuchpersonsarefew.

(e)Iknowwell thatmanywillnotbelievewhatIamsaying,becausetheythink itagloomy, uncharitable doctrine. It is easy to make vague, general assertions of thiskind. It is not so easy to show that any doctrine deserves to be called “gloomy anduncharitable” which is scriptural and true. There is a spurious charity, I am afraid,

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whichdislikesallstrongstatementsinreligion,—acharitywhichwouldhavenooneinterfered with, — a charity which would have everyone let alone in his sins, — acharitywhich, without evidence, takes for granted that everybody is in a way to besaved,—acharitywhichneverdoubtsthatallpeoplearegoingtoheaven,andseemstodeny theexistenceof suchaplaceashell.But suchcharity isnot the charityof theNew Testament, and does not deserve the name. Give me the charity which trieseverythingbythetestoftheBible,andbelievesnothingandhopesnothingthatisnotsanctioned by the Word, (live me the charity which St. Paul describes to theCorinthians (1Cor.xiii. 1, etc.): thecharitywhich isnotblind,anddeaf, and stupid,buthaseyestoseeandsensestodiscernbetweenhimthatfearethGodandhimthatfearethHimnot.Suchcharitywillrejoiceinnothingbut“thetruth,”andwillconfesswithsorrowthatItellnothingbutthetruthwhenIsaythatfewarelikelytobesaved

(f)Iknowwellthatmanywillnotbelieveme,becausetheythinkitpresumptuoustohaveanyopinionatallaboutthenumberofthesaved.Butwillthesepeopledaretotellus that theBiblehasnotspokenplainlyas to the characterof saved souls?AndwilltheydaretosaythatthereisanystandardoftruthexcepttheBible?Surelytherecanbenopresumption in asserting thatwhich is agreeable to theBible. I tell themplainly that the charge of presumptiondoes not lie atmydoor. I say that he is thetruly presumptuous man who, when the Bible has said a thing clearly andunmistakably,refusestoreceiveit.

(g)I know, finally, thatmanywill not believeme, because they thinkmy statementextravagant,andunwarrantable.Theyregarditasapieceoffanaticism,unworthyoftheattentionofarationalman.Theylookonministerswhomakesuchassertions,asweakminded persons, andwanting in common sense. I can bear such imputationsunmoved.IonlyaskthosewhomakethemtoshowmesomeplainproofthattheyarerightandIamwrong.Letthemshowme,iftheycan,thatanybodyislikelytogettoheavenwhoseheartisnotrenewed,whoisnotabelieverinJesusChrist,whoisnotaspiritually-mindedandholyman.Let themshowme, if theycan, thatpeopleof thisdescriptionaremany,comparedwiththosewhoarenot.Letthem,inoneword,pointtoanyplaceonEARTHwhere thegreatmajorityof thepeoplearenotungodly, andthetrulygodlyarenotalittleflock.Letthemdothis,andIwillgranttheyhavedoneright todisbelievewhatIhavesaid.Till theydo this, Imustmaintain thesorrowfulconclusion,thatfewpersonsarelikelytobesaved.

And now it only remains to make some practical application of the subject of thispaper. I have set forth as plainly as I can the character of saved people. — I haveshown the painful delusions of theworld as to the number of the saved.— I havebrought forward theevidence of theBible on the subject.— I have drawn from theworldaroundusplainfactsinconfirmationofthestatementsIhavemade.-—MaytheLordgrantthatallthesesolemntruthsmaynothavebeenexhibitedinvain!

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Iamquiteaware that Ihavesaidmany things in thispaperwhichare likely to giveoffence. I know it. Itmust be so. The pointwhich it handles is far too serious andheart-searching tobeotherwise thanoffensive to some.But I have longhad adeepconviction that the subject has been painfully neglected, and that few things are solittle realized as the comparative numbers of the lost and saved. All that I havewritten,IhavewrittenbecauseIfirmlybelieveittobeGod'struth.AllthatIhavesaid,Ihavesaid,notasanenemybutasaloverofsouls.Youdonotcounthimanenemywhogivesyouabittermedicinetosaveyourlife.Youdonotcounthimanenemywhoshakesyouroughly fromyoursleepwhenyourhouse ison fire.Surelyyouwillnotcountme an enemy because I tell you strong truths for the benefit of your soul. Iappeal,asafriend,toeverymanorwomanintowhosehandsthisvolumehascome.Bearwithme,forafewmoments,whileIsayafewlastwordsto impressthewholesubjectonyourconscience.

(a)Aretherefewsaved?Then,shallyoubeoneofthefew?Oh,thatyouwouldseethatsalvation is the one thing needful! Health, and riches, and titles, are not needfulthings.Amanmaygainheavenwithoutthem.Butwhatshallthemandowhodiesnotsaved!Oh,thatyouwouldseethatyoumusthavesalvationnow,inthispresentlife,and layholdupon it foryourownsoul!Oh, thatyouwouldsee that“saved”or “notsaved”isthegrandquestioninreligion!HighChurchorLowChurch,ChurchmanorDissenter,allthesearetriflingquestionsincomparison.WhatamanneedsinordertogettoheavenisanactualpersonalinterestinChrist'ssalvation.Surely,ifyouarenotsaved,itwillbebetteratlastnevertohavebeenborn.

(b)Aretherefewsaved?Then,ifyouarenotoneofthefewalready,strivetobeonewithoutdelay.Iknownotwhoandwhatyouare,butIsayboldly,CometoChristandyoushallbesaved.Thegatethatleadstolifemaybestrait,butitwaswideenoughtoadmitManasseh,andSaulofTarsus,andwhynotyou?Thewaythatleadstolifemaybenarrow,butitismarkedbythefootstepsofthousandsofsinnerslikeyourself.Allhavefounditagoodway.Allhavepersevered,andgotsafehomeatlast.JesusChristinvitesyou.ThepromisesoftheGospelencourageyou.Oh,strivetoenterinwithoutdelay!

(c)Are there few saved?Then, if youaredoubtfulwhetheryouareoneof the few,makesureworkatonce,andbedoubtfulnomore.Leavenostoneunturnedinordertoascertainyourownspiritualstate.Benotcontentwithvaguehopesandtrusts.Restnotonwarm feelingsand temporarydesires afterGod.Givediligence tomake yourcallingandelectionsure.Oh,giveme leave tosay, that ifyouarecontent to liveonuncertainaboutsalvation,youlivethemaddestlifeintheworld!Thefiresofhellarebefore you, and you are uncertain whether your soul is insured. This world belowmust soon be left, and you are uncertain whether you have amansion prepared toreceiveyouintheworldabove.Thejudgmentwillsoonbeset,andyouareuncertainwhetheryouhaveanAdvocatetopleadyourcause.Eternitywillsoonbegin,andyou

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areuncertainwhetheryouarepreparedtomeetGod.Oh,sitdownthisday,andstudythe subject of salvation!GiveGodno rest till uncertainty has disappeared, and youhavegotholdofareasonablehopethatyouaresaved.

(d)Aretherefewthatbesaved?Then,ifyouareone,bethankful.ChosenandcalledofGod,while thousandsaroundyouare sunk inunbelief,— seeing the kingdomofGod,whilemultitudesaroundyouareutterlyblind,—deliveredfromthispresentevilworld,whilecrowdsareovercomebyitsloveandfear—taughttoknowsin,andGod,and Christ, while numbers, to all appearance as good as you, live in ignorance anddarkness,—Oh,youhavereasoneverydaytoblessandpraiseGod!Whencecamethissense of sin, which you now experience?Whence came this love of Christ, — thisdesire after holiness, — this hungering after righteousness, — this delight in theWord?Hasnotfreegracedoneit,whilemanyacompanionofyouryouthstillknowsnothingaboutit,orhasbeencutoffinhissins?YououghtindeedtoblessGod!SurelyWhitefieldmightwellsay,thatoneanthemamongthesaintsinheavenwillbe“Whyme,Lord?WhydidstThouchooseme?”

(e)Aretherefewthatbesaved?Then, ifyouareone,donotwonderthatyouoftenfindyourself standingalone. Idare believe you are sometimes almost brought to astandstill,bythecorruptionandwickednessthatyouseeintheworldaroundyou.Yousee falsedoctrine abounding. You see unbelief andungodliness of every description.Youaresometimestemptedtosay,“CanIreallybeintherightinmyreligion?Canitreallybethatallthesepeopleareinthewrong?“Bewareofgivingwaytothoughtslikethese.Remember, you are only having practical proof of the truth of yourMaster'ssayings.Thinknot thatHispurposesarebeingdefeated.Thinknot thatHiswork isnotgoingforwardintheworld.HeisstilltakingoutapeopletoHispraise.HeisstillraisingupwitnessestoHimself,hereandthere,allovertheworld.Thesavedwillyetbefoundtobea“multitudethatnomancannumber”whenallaregatheredtogetherat last. (Rev. vii. 9.)The earthwill yet be filledwith theknowledgeof the Lord. AllnationsshallserveHim:allkingsshallyetdelighttodoHimhonour.Butthenightisnotyetspent.ThedayoftheLord'spowerisyettocome.InthemeantimeallisgoingonasHeforetold1800yearsago.Manyarebeinglostandfewsaved

(f)Are there fewsaved?Then, if youareone,donotbeafraidofhaving toomuchreligion. Settle it down in your mind that you will aim at the highest degree ofholiness,andspiritual-mindedness,andconsecration toGod,— thatyouwill not becontentwithanylowdegreeofsanctification.Resolvethat,by thegraceofGod,youwillmakeChristianitybeautifulintheeyesoftheworld.Rememberthatthechildrenoftheworldhavebutfewpatternsoftruereligionbeforethem.Endeavour,asfarasinyoulies,tomakethosefewpatternsrecommendtheserviceofyourMaster.Oh,thatevery trueChristianwould recollect that he is set as a lighthouse in themidst of adarkworld,andwouldlaboursotolivethateverypartofhimmayreflectlight,andnosidebedim!

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(g)Are there fewsaved?Then, if youareone,use everyopportunityof trying todogoodtosouls.Settleitdowninyourmindthatthevastmajorityofpeoplearoundyouareinawfuldangerofbeinglostforever.WorkeveryengineforbringingtheGospelto bear upon them. Help every Christian machinery for plucking brands from theburning. Give liberally to every Society which has for its object to spread theeverlastingGospel.Throwallyourinfluenceheartilyandunreservedlyintothecauseofdoinggoodtosouls.Live likeonewho thoroughlybelieves that time is shortandeternitynear,—thedevilstrongandsinabounding,—thedarknessverygreatandthelightverysmall,—theungodlyverymanyandthegodlyveryfew,—thethingsoftheworldmere transitory shadows, and heaven and hell the great substantial realities.Alas, indeed, for the lives that many believers live! How cold are many, and howfrozen,—howslowtododecidedthingsinreligion,andhowafraidofgoingtoofar,—howbackwardtoattemptanythingnew,—howreadytodiscourageagoodmovement,—howingeniousindiscoveringreasonswhyitisbesttositstill,—howunwillingevertoallowthat“thetime”foractiveexertioniscome,—howwiseinfindingfault,—howshiftlessindevisingplanstomeetgrowingevils!Trulyamanmightsometimesfancy,whenhelooksatthewaysofmanywhoarecountedbelievers,thatalltheworldwasgoingtoheaven,andhellwasnothingbutalie.

Let us all beware of this state ofmind!Whetherwe like to believe it or not, bell isfilling fast,—Christ is daily holding outHis hand to a disobedient people,—manymanyareinthewaytodestruction,—few,fewareinthewaytolife.Many,manyarelikelytobelost.Few,fewarelikelytobesaved.

OncemoreIaskeveryreader,asIaskedatthebeginningofthispaper,—Shallyoubesaved?Ifyouarenotsavedalready,myheart'sdesireandprayertoGodis, thatyoumayseeksalvationwithoutdelay.Ifyouaresaved,mydesireisthatyoumaylivelikeasavedsoul,—andlikeonewhoknowsthatsavedsoulsarefew.

OurHope

"Goodhopethroughgrace."2Thess.2:10

"Thehopeoftheungodlyshallperish."Job8:13

"Forwhat is the hope of the godless,when he is cut off,whenGod takes away hislife?"Job27:8

"Ihope,"isaverycommonexpression.Everybodycansay,"Ihope."Aboutnosubject

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istheexpressionusedsocommonlyasitisaboutreligion.Nothingismorecommonthantohearpeopleturnoffsomehome-thrustatconscience,bythisconvenientformofwords,"Ihope.""Ihopeitwillbeallrightat last.""IhopeIshallbeabettermansomeday." "IhopeI shallget toheavenat last."Butwhydo theyhope?Onwhat istheir hope built? Too often they cannot tell you! Too often it is amere excuse foravoiding a disagreeable subject. "Hoping," they live on. "Hoping," they grow old."Hoping,"theydieatlast—andfindtoooftenthattheyarelostforeverinhell!

Iasktheseriousattentionofallwhoreadthispaper.Thesubjectisoneofthedeepestimportance, "We are savedbyhope." (Rom.8:24.)Let us, then,make sure that ourhope is sound.Haveweahope thatoursinsarepardoned,ourhearts renewed,andoursoulsatpeacewithGod?Thenletusseetoitthatourhopeis"good,"and"living,"and one "that makes not ashamed." (2 Thess. 2:16; 1 Pet, 1:3; Rom. 5:5.) Let usconsiderourways.Letusnotshrinkfromhonest,searchinginquiryintotheconditionofoursouls.Ifourhopeisgood,examinationwilldoitnoharm.Ifourhopeisbad,itishightimetoknowit,andtoseekabetterone.

Therearefivemarksofareally"goodhope."Idesiretoplacethembeforemyreadersinorder.Letusaskourselveswhatweknowofthem.Letusproveourownstatebythem.Happyishewhocansayofeachofthesemarks,"Iknowitbyexperience.Thisismyhopeaboutmysoul."

I.In the firstplace,agoodhopeisahopethatamancanexplain.WhatsaystheScripture?"Bereadyalwaystogiveananswertoeverymanwhoasksyouareasonofthehopethatisinyou."(1Pet.3:15.)

Ifourhopeissoundwemustbeabletogivesomeaccountofit.Wemustbeabletoshowwhy,andtherefore,andonwhatgrounds,andforwhatreasonweexpecttogotoheavenwhenwedie.Nowcanwedothis?

Let no one misunderstandmymeaning. I do not say that deep learning and greatknowledge are absolutely needful to salvation. Amanmay know twenty languages,andhavethewholebodyofdivinityathisfingers'ends,andyetbelost;amanmaybeunable to read, andhavea veryweakunderstanding, andyetbe saved.But Ido saythat amanmust knowwhathis hope is, and be able to tell us its nature. I cannotbelievethatamanhasgotpossessionofathingifheknowsnothingaboutit.

Once more, let no one misunderstand my meaning. I do not say that a power oftalkingwellisnecessarytosalvation.Theremaybemanyfinewordsonaman'slips,andnotawhitofgraceinhisheart;theremaybefewandstammeringwords,andyetdeep feeling within, planted there by the Holy Spirit. There are some who cannotspeakmanywordsforChrist,andyetwoulddieforHim.Butforallthis,Idosaythatthemanwhohasagoodhopeoughttobeabletotelluswhy.Ifhecantellusnomore

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than this, that "he feels himself a sinner, and has no hope but in Christ," it issomething.Butifhecantellusnothingatall,Imustsuspectthathehasgotnorealhope.

I am aware that the opinion just expresseddispleasesmany. Thousands can see nonecessityforthatclearknowledgewhichIbelievetobeessentialtoasavinghope.SolongasamangoestochurchonSunday,andhashischildrenbaptized,theythinkweought tobecontent. "Knowledge," they tellus, "maybeverywell for clergymenandprofessorsoftheology;butitistoomuchtorequireitofcommonpeople."

Myanswertoallsuchpeopleisshortandsimple.WhereinthewholeNewTestamentshall we find that people were called Christians, unless they knew something ofChristianity? Will anyone try to persuade me that a Corinthian Christian, or aColossian, orThessalonian, orPhilippian, or Ephesian, could not have told uswhatwashishopeabouthissoul?Letthosebelieveitwhowill—I,forone,cannot.Ibelievethat in requiring a man to know the ground of his hope I am only setting up thestandardof theNewTestament. Ignorancemay suit aRomanCatholicwell enough.HebelongstowhatheconsiderstobethetrueChurch!Hedoesashispriesttellshim!Heasksnomore!ButignoranceoughtnevertobethecharacteristicofaChristian.Heoughttoknowwhathebelieves,andifhedoesnotknowheisinabadway.

Iaskeveryreaderofthispapertosearchhisheart,andseehowthematterstandswithhissoul.Canyoutellusnothingmorethanthis,that"youhopetobesaved"?Canyougive no explanation of the grounds of your confidence? Can you show us nothingmore satisfactory than your own vague expectation? If this be the case you are inimminentperil ofbeing lost forever.Like Ignorance, inPilgrim'sProgress, youmayget to your journey's end, and be ferried by Vainhope over the river, withoutmuchtrouble.But, likeIgnorance,youmayfindtoyoursorrowthat there isnoadmissionforyouintothecelestialcity.Noneenterintherebutthosewho"knowwhataswellaswhomtheyhavebelieved."

"Now,while Iwasgazinguponall these things, I turnedmyhead to lookback, andsawIgnorancecominguptotheriverside—buthesoongotover,andthatwithouthalfthedifficultywhichtheothertwomenmetwith.ForithappenedthattherewastheninthatplaceoneVainhope,aferry-man,thatwithhisboathelpedhimover;sohe,astheotherIsaw,didascendthehilltocomeuptothegate,onlyhecamealone;neitherdidanymanmeethimwith the leastencouragement.Whenhewascomeup to thegate,helookeduptothewritingthatwasabove,andthenbegantoknock,supposingthatentranceshouldhavebeenquicklyadministeredtohim.Buthewasaskedbytheman that lookedover the top of the gate, 'Whence come you?Andwhatwould youhave?'He answered, 'I have ate and drank in the presence of theKing, andHe hastaught inour streets.'Then theyaskedhim forhis certificate, that theymight go inandshowittotheKing.Sohefumbledinhisbosomforone,andfoundnone.Then

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saidthey,'Haveyounone?'Butthemanansweredneveraword.

"SotheytoldtheKing;butHewouldnotcomedowntoseehim—butcommandedthetwoshiningonesthatconductedChristianandHopefultotheCity,totakeIgnoranceandbindhimhandandfoot,andtakehimaway.Thentheytookhimup,andcarriedhimthroughtheairtothedoorthatIsawinthesideofthehill,andputhiminthere.ThenIsawthattherewasawaytohell,evenfromthegateofheaven,aswellasfromthecityofdestruction."—Bunyan'sPilgrim'sProgress.

Ilaydownthisprincipleasastartingpoint,andIaskmyreaderstoconsideritwell.IadmitmostfullythattherearedifferentdegreesofgraceamongtrueChristians.Idonot forget that there aremany in the family of God whose faith is very weak, andwhosehopeisverysmall.ButIbelieveconfidently,thatthestandardofrequirementIhavesetup,isnotawhittoohigh.Ibelievethatthemanwhohasa"goodhope"willalwaysbeabletogivesomeaccountofit.

II.In the secondplace,agoodhope isahopethat isdrawnfromScripture.What saysDavid? "I hope in Your word." "Remember the word unto Your servant,uponwhichYouhave causedme to hope."What says Paul? "Whatever thingswerewritten aforetime, were written for our learning, that we through patience andcomfortoftheScriptures,mighthavehope."(Psalm119:81,49.Rom.15:4.)

Ifourhopeissoundweoughttobeabletoturntosometext,or fact,ordoctrineofGod'sWord,asthesourceofit.OurconfidencemustarisefromsomethingwhichGodhas caused to be written in the Bible for our learning, and which our heart hasreceivedandbelieved.

Itisnotenoughtohavegoodfeelingsaboutthestateofoursouls.Wemayflatterourselvesthatallisright,andthatwearegoingtoheavenwhenwedie,andyethavenothingtoshowforourexpectationsbutmerefancyandimagination."Theheartis deceitful above all things." "Hewho trusts in his own heart is a fool." (Jer. 17:9.Prov.28:26.)Ihavefrequentlyhearddyingpeoplesaythat"theyfeltquitehappyandready to go." I haveheard them say that "they felt as if they cravednothing in thisworld." And all this time I have remarked that they were profoundly ignorant ofScripture,andseemedunabletolayfirmholdonasingletruthoftheGospel!Inevercanfeelcomfortaboutsuchpeople.Iampersuadedthatthereissomethingwrongintheircondition.Goodfeelings,withoutsomewarrantofScripture,donotmakeupagoodhope.

Itisnotenoughtohavethegoodopinionofothersaboutthestateofoursouls.Wemaybetoldbyothersonourdeathbeds,to"keepupourspirits,"and"nottobeafraid."Wemayberemindedthatwehave"livedgoodlives—orhadagoodheart—or done nobody any harm—or not been so bad as many." And all this time our

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friendsmay not bring forward a word of Scripture, andmay be feeding us poison!Such friends are miserable comforters. However well meaning, they are downrightenemiestooursouls.Thegoodopinionofothers,withoutthewarrantofGod'sWord,willnevermakeupagoodhope.

Ifamanwouldknowthesoundnessofhisownhope,lethimsearchandlookwithinhis heart for some text or doctrine, or fact out of God's book. Therewill always besomeoneormoreonwhichyoursoulhangs,ifyouareatruechildofGod.ThedyingthiefinLondon,whowasvisitedbyaCityMissionary,andfoundutterly ignorantofChristianity,laidholdononesinglefactinachapterofLuke'sGospelwhichwasreadtohim,andfoundcomfortinit.Thatfactwasthestoryofthepenitentthief."Sir,"hesaid, when visited the second time, "are there anymore thieves in that book fromwhich you read yesterday?" The dyingHinduwhowas found by amissionary on aroadside, had grasped one single text in the First Epistle of John, and found in itpeace. That text was the precious saying, "The blood of Jesus Christ His Son,CLEANSESusfromallsin."(1John1:7.)ThisistheexperienceofalltrueChristians.Unlearned,humble,poor,asmanyofthemare,theyhavegotholdofsomethingintheBible, and this causes them to hope. The hopewhich "takes not ashamed" is neverseparatefromGod'sWord.

People wonder sometimes that ministers press them so strongly to read the Bible.Theymarvelthatwesaysomuchabouttheimportanceofpreaching,andurgethemsooftentohearsermons.Letthemceasetowonder,andmarvelnomore.OurobjectistomakeyouacquaintedwithGod'sWord.Wewantyoutohaveagoodhope,andweknow that a good hope must be drawn from the Scriptures. Without reading orhearing youmust live and die in ignorance. Hence we cry, "Search the Scriptures.""Hear,andyoursoulshalllive."(John5:39.Isa.55:3.)

IwarneveryonetobewareofahopenotdrawnfromScripture.Itisafalsehope,andmany will find out this to their cost. That glorious and perfect book, the Bible,however people despise it, is the only fountain out of whichman's soul can derivepeace.Manysneerattheoldbookwhileliving,whofindtheirneedofitwhendying.The Queen in her palace and the pauper in the workhouse, the philosopher in hisstudyandthechildinthecottage—eachandallmustbecontenttoseeklivingwaterfromtheBible,iftheyaretohaveanyhopeatall.HonoryourBible—readyourBible—sticktoyourBible.ThereisnotonearthascrapofsolidhopefortheothersideofthegravewhichisnotdrawnoutoftheWord.

III. In the third place, a good hope is a hope that rests entirely on JesusChrist.What saysPaul toTimothy?He says that JesusChrist "is our hope."WhatsayshetotheColossians?Hespeaksof"Christinyouthehopeofglory."(1Tim.1:1;Coloss.1:27.)

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Thepersonwhohasagoodhopefoundsallhisexpectationsofpardonandsalvationon themediationand redeemingworkofJesus, theSonofGod.Heknowshis ownsinfulness; he feels that he is guilty, wicked, and lost by nature—but he seesforgiveness and peace with God offered freely to him through faith in Christ. Heacceptstheoffer—hecastshimselfwithallhissinsonJesus,andrestsonHim.Jesusand His atonement on the cross—Jesus and His righteousness—Jesus and Hisfinishedwork—JesusandHisall-prevailingintercession—Jesus,andJesusonly,isthefoundationoftheconfidenceofhissoul.

LetusbewareofsupposingthatanyhopeisgoodwhichisnotfoundedonChrist.Allotherhopesarebuiltonsand.Theymaylookwellinthesummertimeofhealthandprosperity—but they will fail in the day of sickness and the hour of death. "Otherfoundationcannomanlaythanthatislaid,whichisJesusChrist."(1Cor.3:11.)

Church-membership is no foundation of hope. We may belong to the best ofChurches,andyetneverbelongtoChrist.WemayfillourpewregularlyeverySunday,andhearthesermonsoforthodox,ordainedclergymen,andyetneverhearthevoiceofJesus,or followHim. Ifwehavenothingbetter thanChurch-membership to restuponweareinapoorplight—wehavenothingsolidbeneathourfeet.

Reception of the sacraments is no foundation of hope. We may be washed in thewatersofbaptism,andyetknownothingofthewateroflife.WemaygototheLord'stable every Sunday of our lives, and yet never eat Christ's body and drink Christ'sbloodbyfaith.Miserableindeedisourconditionifwecansaynothingmorethanthis!WepossessnothingbuttheoutsideofChristianity—weareleaningonareed.

ChristHimselfistheonlytruefoundationofagoodhope.Heistherock,Hisworkisperfect.Heisthestone—thesurestone,thetriedcorner-stone.HeisabletobearalltheweightthatwecanlayuponHim.Heonlythatbuildsand"believesonHimshallnotbeconfounded."(Deut.32:4;Isa.28:16;1Peter2:6.)

This is the point on which all true saints of God in every age have been entirelyagreed. Differing on other matters, they have always been of one mind upon this.UnabletoseealikeaboutChurch-government,anddiscipline,andliturgies,theyhaveeverseenalikeaboutthefoundationofhope.Notoneofthemhaseverlefttheworldtrusting in his own righteousness. Christ has been all their confidence—they havehopedinHim,andnotbeenashamed.

"Considerhowitiswiththemostholyandeminentsaintswhendying.Didyoueverseeorhearanyboastingoftheirownworksandperformances?Theymay,anddoownto the praise of His grace, what they have been made to be, what they have beenhelped to do or allow for Christ's sake. But when they draw near to the solemntribunal,whatelseisintheireyeandheart—butonlyfreegrace,ransomingblood,and

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a well-ordered covenant in Christ the surety? They cannot bear to have any makementiontothemoftheirholiness,theirowngrace,andattainments.

"Heisawiseandhappymanthatcananchorhissoulonthatrockonwhichhecanrideoutthestormofdeath.Whyshouldpeoplecontendforthatintheirlifethattheyknow theymust renounce at their death?orneglect that truthnow, that theymustbetakethemselvesuntothen?It isagreattestofthetruthofthedoctrineaboutthewayofsalvationwhenitisgenerallyapprovedbysensibledyingpeople."—Traill.

Would anyone like to knowwhat kind of death-beds aminister of theGospel findscomfort in attending?Would youknowwhat closing scenes are cheering to us, andleavefavorableimpressionsonourminds?WeliketoseedyingpeoplemakingmuchofChrist.Solongastheycanonlytalkof"theAlmighty,"and"Providence,"and"God,"and "mercy," wemust stand in doubt. Dying in this state, they give no satisfactorysign.Giveusthemenandwomenwhofeeltheirsinsdeeply,andclingtoJesus,whothink much of His dying love—who like to hear of His atoning blood—who returnagainandagainforthestoryofHiscross.Thesearethedeath-bedswhichleavegoodevidencebehindthem.FormypartIhadratherhearthenameofJesuscomeheartilyfromadyingrelative'slips,thanseehimdiewithoutawordaboutChrist,andthenbetoldbyanangelthathewassaved.

ThedyingwordsofMr.Ash,thePuritan,arewell-deservingofnotice.Hesaid,"WhenIconsidermybestduties, I sink, Idie, Idespair.ButwhenI thinkofChrist, Ihaveenough.Heisallandinall.'

ThewordsofMr.Cecilshortlybeforehisdeathareveryremarkable.Hesaid,"Iknowmyselftobeawretched,worthlesssinner,havingnothing inmyselfbutpovertyandsin.IknowJesusChristtobeagloriousandalmightySavior.IseethefullefficacyofHis atonement and grace; and I cast myself entirely on Him, and wait at Hisfootstool." A short time before his decease he requested one of his family to writedownforhim the following sentence inabook, "'NonebutChrist,nonebutChrist,'saidLambert,dyingatastake—thesameindyingcircumstances,withhiswholeheart,saysRichardCecil."

IV.Inthefourthplace,agoodhopeisahopethatisfeltinwardlyintheheart.WhatsaysPaul?Hespeaksof"hopethatmakesnotashamed,becausetheloveofGodisshedabroadinourhearts."Hespeaksof"rejoicinginhope."(Rom.5:5;12:12.)

Themanwhohasagoodhopeisconsciousofit.Hefeelswithinhimsomethingthatanothermandoesnot—heisconsciousofpossessingawell-groundedexpectationofgoodthingstocome.Thisconsciousnessmayvaryexceedinglyindifferentpeople.Inone itmaybestrongandwell-defined; inanother itmaybe feebleand indistinct. Itmayvaryexceedinglyindifferentstagesofthesameperson'sexperience.Atonetime

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hemaybefullof"joyandpeaceinbelieving;"atanotherhemaybedepressedandcastdown. But in all people who have a "good hope," in a greater or less degree, thisconsciousnessdoesexist.

Iamawarethatthistruthisonewhichhasbeenfearfullyabusedandperverted.Ithasbeenbroughtintogreatdisreputebythefanaticism,enthusiasm,andextravaganceofsomeprofessingChristians.MereanimalexcitementhasbeenmistakenfortheworkoftheHolySpirit.Theover-wrought feelingsofweakandnervouspeoplehavebeenprematurelyandrashlysupposedtobetheresultofgrace.Menandwomenhavebeenhastily pronounced "converted,"whohave soon gone back to theworld, andprovedutterly"unconverted"anddeadinsins.Andthenhascomeinthedevil.Contempthasbeenpouredonreligiousfeelingsofeverydescription—theirveryexistencehasbeendeniedandscouted;andtheresultisthattheverynameof"feelings"inreligionisinmanyquartersdreadedanddisliked.

Buttheabuseandperversionofatruth,mustneverbeallowedtorobusofthe use of it.When all has been said that can be said against fanaticism andenthusiasm, it is still undeniable that religious feelings are plainly spoken of anddescribedinScripture.TheWordofGodtellsus that the trueChristianhas"peace,"and"rest,"and"joy,"and"confidence."Ittellsusofsomewhohavethe"witnessoftheSpirit"—of some who "fear no evil"—of some who enjoy "assurance"—of some who"knowwhomtheyhavebelieved"—ofsomewho"arepersuadedthattheyshallneverbe separated from the love of God in Christ." These are the feelings for which Icontend—this is that sober, inward experience in which I see nothing extravagant,enthusiastic,orfanatical.OfsuchfeelingsIsayboldly,nomanneedbeashamed.Igofurther, and say that no man has a "good hope" who does not know something,however faintly,of these feelings inhisownheart. Igo further still, andsay that toholdanyotherdoctrineistocastdishonoronthewholeworkoftheHolySpirit.

Will anyone tell us that God ever intended a true Christian to have no inwardconsciousness of his own Christianity?Will anyone say that the Bible teaches thatpeoplecanpassfromdeathtolife,bepardoned,renewed,andsanctified,andyetfeelnothingofthismightychangewithin?Letthosethinkitwhowill—Icanholdnosuchdoctrine.IwouldassoonbelievethatLazarusdidnotknowthathewasraisedfromthegrave, orBartimeus thathewas restored to sight—asbelieve that aman cannotfeelwithinhimtheSpiritofGod.

Canawearymanliedowninbed—andnotfeelrested?CantheparchedtravelerinanAfricandesertdrinkcoolwater—andnot feel refreshed?Can the shivering sailor, inArctic regions, draw near to the fire—and not feel warmed? Can the half-naked,hungry,homelesswanderer inour streets be clothed, fed, andhoused—andnot feelcomforted? Can the fainting sick man receive the healing cordial—and not feelrevived?Icannotbelieveit.Ibelievethatineachcasesomethingwillbefelt.JustsoI

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cannotbelievethatamancanbeatrueChristianifhedoesnotfeelsomethingwithin.Anewbirth,apardonofsins,aconsciencesprinkledwithChrist'sblood,anindwellingof the Holy Spirit—are no such small matters as people seem to suppose. He whoknows anything of themwill feel them. Therewill be a real, distinctwitness in hisinwardman.

Let us beware of a hope that is not felt, and a Christianity that is destitute of anyinward experience. They are idols of the present day, and idols before whichthousandsarebowingdown.Thousandsaretryingtopersuadethemselvesthatpeoplemaybebornagain,andhave theSpirit, andyetnotbe sensibleof it—or thatpeoplemaybemembersofChrist,andreceivebenefitfromHim,whohaveneitherfaithnorlovetowardsHisname.Thesearethefavoritedoctrinesofmoderndays!Thesebethegods which have taken the place of Diana andMercury, and "the image which felldownfromJupiter!"Thesebethelastnewdeitiesinventedbypoor,weak,idolatrousman! From all such idols let us keep ourselves with jealous care. Golden as theirheads may be—their feet are no better than clay! They cannot stand—they must,soonerorlater,breakdown.Miserableindeedaretheprospectsofthosewhoworshipthem!TheirhopeisnotthehopeoftheBible—itisthehopeofadeadcorpse.WhereChristandtheSpiritaretheirpresencewillbefelt!

CananyoneinhissensessupposethattheapostlePaulwouldhavebeencontentwithChristianswhoknewnothingofinwardfeelings?CanweimaginethatmightymanofGod sanctioning a religion which a personmight have, and yet experience nothingwithin?Canwe picture to ourselves amember of one of the Churches he founded,whowasutterlyunacquaintedwithpeace,orjoy,orconfidencetowardsGod,andwasyet approvedby thegreat apostle as a true believer!Awaywith the idea! Itwill notbearreflectionforamoment.ThetestimonyofScriptureisplainandexplicit.Talkaspeople will about enthusiasm and excitement, there are such things as feelings inreligion. The Christian who knows nothing of them is not yet converted, and haseverythingtolearn.ThecoldmarbleofaGrecianstatuemaywellbeunimpassioned.The driedmummy from Egyptmay well look stiff and still. The stuffed beast in amuseummaywellbemotionlessandcold.Theyarealllifelessthings.Butwherethereislifetherewillalwaysbesomefeeling.The"goodhope"isahopethatcanbefelt.

V.Inthelastplace,agoodhopeisahopethatismanifestedoutwardlyinthelife. Once more, what says the Scripture? "Everyone who has this hope in Himpurifieshimself,evenasHeispure."(1John3:3.)Themanwhohasagoodhopewillshowitinallhisways.Itwillinfluencehislife,hischaracter,andhisdailyconduct;itwill make him strive to be a holy, godly, conscientious, spiritual man. He will feelunderaconstantobligationtoserveandpleaseHimfromwhomhishopecomes.Hewill say tohimself, "Whatshall I render to theLord forallHisbenefits tome?"Hewillfeel,"Iamboughtwithaprice—letmeglorifyGodwithbodyandspirit,whichareHis.""LetmeshowforththepraisesofHimwhohascalledmeoutofdarkness into

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His marvelous light." Let me prove that I am Christ's friend, "by keeping Hiscommandments."(Psalm116:12;1Cor6:20;1Peter2:9;John15:14.)

ThisisapointwhichhasbeenofinfiniteimportanceineveryageoftheChurch.ItisatruthwhichisalwaysassailedbySatan,andneedsguardingwithjealouscare.Letusgrasp it firmly, andmake it a settled principle in our religion. If there is light in ahouseitwillshinethroughthewindows—if there isanyrealhope inaman'ssoul itwillbeseeninhisways.Showmeyourhopeinyourlifeanddailybehavior.Whereisit?Whereindoesitappear?Ifyoucannotshowit,youmaybesureitisnothingbetterthanadelusionandasnare.

The times demand a very distinct testimony fromallministers on this subject. Thetruthonthispointrequiresveryplainspeaking.Letussettle it inourmindsdeeply,and beware of letting it go. Let noman deceive us with vain words. "He that doesrighteousnessisrighteous.""HethatsaysheabidesinHim,oughthimselfalsosotowalk, even as He walked." (1 John 2:6; 3:7.) The hope that does not make a manhonest,honorable,truthful,sober,diligent,unselfish,loving,meek,kind,andfaithfulinalltherelationsoflife,isnotfromGod.Itisonly"thetalkofthelipswhichtendstopoverty.""Hethatboastshimselfofafalsegift,islikecloudsandwindwithoutrain."(Prov.14:23;25:14.)

FALSEHOPES

(a)Therearesomeinthepresentdaywhoflatterthemselvestheyhaveagoodhopebecause theypossessreligiousknowledge.Theyareacquaintedwith the letteroftheirBibles;theycanargueanddisputeaboutpointsofdoctrine—theycanquotetextsbythescore,indefenseoftheirowntheologicalopinions.TheyareperfectBenjamitesin controversy—they can "sling stones at an hair-breadth, and not miss." (Judges20:16.)AndyettheyhavenofruitsoftheSpirit,nolove,nomeekness,nogentleness,no humility, nothing of themind that was in Christ. And have these people a truehope?Letthosebelieveitwhowill,Idarenotsayso.IholdwithPaul,"IfIspeakthelanguages of men and of angels, but do not have love, I am a sounding gong or aclangingcymbal. If Ihave thegiftofprophecy,andunderstandallmysteriesandallknowledge,andifIhaveallfaith,sothatIcanmovemountains,butdonothavelove,Iamnothing.AndifIdonateallmygoodstofeedthepoor,andifIgivemybodytobeburned,butdonothavelove,Igainnothing.Loveispatient; loveiskind.Lovedoesnotenvy; isnotboastful; isnotconceited;doesnotact improperly; isnot selfish; isnotprovoked;doesnotkeeparecordofwrongs;findsnojoyinunrighteousness,butrejoicesinthetruth;bearsallthings,believesallthings,hopesallthings,enduresallthings."Yes—hopewithoutloveisnohopeatall.

(b) There are some againwho presume to think they have a good hope because ofGod's everlasting election. They boldly persuade themselves that they were once

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calledandchosenofGodtosalvation.Theytakeit forgrantedthattherewasoncearealworkoftheSpiritontheirhearts,andthatallthereforemustbewell.Theylookdown upon others, who are afraid of professing asmuch as they do. They seem tothink,"Weare thepeopleofGod,weare the templeof theLord,weare the favoredservantsoftheMostHigh—wearethosewhoshallreigninheaven,andnonebeside."Andyettheseverypeoplecanlie,andcheat,andswindle,andbedishonorable!Someofthemcanevengetdrunkinprivate,andsecretlycommitsinsofwhichitisashametospeak!Andhave theyagoodhope?God forbid that I shouldsay so!Theelectionwhichisnot"untosanctification"isnotofGod—butofthedevil.Thehopethatdoesnotmakeamanholyisnohopeatall.

(c)Thereare some in thisdaywho fancy theyhavea goodhopebecause they likehearingtheGospel.Theyarefondofhearinggoodsermons.Theywillgomilestolisten to some favorite preacher, and will even weep and be much affected by hiswords. To see them in church one would think, "Surely these are the disciples ofChrist, surely these are excellent Christians!" And yet these very people can plungeintoeveryfollyandgaietyoftheworld.Nightafternighttheycangowiththeirwholeheart to the opera, the theater, or the ball. They are to be seen on the race-course.Theyareadvancedineveryworldlyrevel.TheirvoiceonSundayisthevoiceofJacob—but theirhandsonweekdays are thehandsofEsau.Andhave thesepeople a goodhope?Idarenotsayso. "The friendshipof theworld isenmitywithGod;" thehopethatdoesnotpreventconformitytotheworld,isnohopeatall."WhoeverisbornofGodovercomestheworld."(James4:4;1John5:4.)

Let us beware of any hope that does not exercise a sanctifying influence over ourhearts, lives, tastes, conduct, and conversation. It is a hope that never came downfromabove.Itismerebasemetal,andcounterfeitcoin.Itlacksthemint-stampoftheHolySpirit,andwillneverpasscurrent inheaven.Themanthathasarealhope,nodoubt,maybeovertakeninafault;Hemaystumbleoccasionallyinhispractice,andbedrawnasidefromtherightpathforawhile.ButthepersonwhocanallowhimselfinanywillfulandhabitualbreachofGod'slaw,isrottenattheheart.Hemaytalkofhishopeasmuchashepleases—buthehasnoneinreality.Hisreligionisajoytothedevil, a stumblingblock to theworld, a sorrow to trueChristians, andanoffence toGod. Oh, that people would consider these things! Oh, thatmany would use somesuchprayerasthis,"Fromantinomianismandhypocrisy,goodLord,deliverme!"

I have now done what I proposed to do. I have shown the five leadingmarks of asoundgoodhope.

(1)Itisahopethatamancanexplain.

(2)ItisahopethatisdrawnfromScripture.

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(3)ItisahopethatisfoundedonChrist.

(4)Itisahopethatisfeltwithintheheart.

(5)Itisahopethatismanifestedoutwardlyinthelife.

Such, I firmlybelieve is thehopeof all trueChristians, of everyname, andChurch,anddenomination,andpeople,andtongue.Suchisthehopethatwemusthave,ifwemeantogotoheaven.Suchisthehopewithoutwhich,Ifirmlybelieve,nomancanbesaved.Suchis"thegoodhopethroughgrace."

Allowme now toAPPLY the whole subject to the conscience of every reader in apracticalway.Whatshallitprofitustoknowtruthsunlessweusethem?Whatshallitavailustoseetherealnatureofagoodhopeunlessthematterbebroughthometoourownsouls?ThisiswhatInowproposetodo,ifGodpermits,intheremainderofthispaper.MaytheSpiritofGodapplymywordstotheheartofeveryreaderofthesepages with mighty power!Manmay speak, and preach, andwrite—but Godalonecanconvert!

(1)MyfirstwordofapplicationshallbeaQUESTION.Iofferittoallwhoreadthispaper,andIentreateachreadertogiveitananswer.Thatquestionis,"Whatisyourownhopeaboutyoursoul?"

Idonotaskthisoutofidlecuriosity.IaskitasanambassadorforChrist,andafriendto your best interests. I ask it in order to stir up self-inquiry, and promote yourspiritualwelfare.Iask,"Whatisyourhopeaboutyoursoul?"

Idonotwanttoknowwhetheryougotochurchorchapel—therewillbenoaccountofthesedifferencesinheaven.IdonotwanttoknowwhetheryouapproveoftheGospel,andthinkitveryrightandproperthatpeopleshouldhavetheirreligion,andsaytheirprayers;allthisisbesidethemark—itisnotthepoint.ThepointIwantyoutolookatisthis,"Whatisyourhopeaboutyoursoul?"

Itmattersnothingwhatyourrelationsthink.Itmattersnothingwhatotherpeopleinthe parish or town approve. The account of God will not be taken by towns, or byparishes, or by families—eachmust stand forth separately and answer for himself."EveryoneofusshallgiveaccountofhimselftoGod."(Rom.14:12.)Andwhatisthedefenseyoumeantosetup?Whatistobeyourplea?"Whatisyourhopeaboutyoursoul?"

Time is short, and ispassingquickly away—ina fewyears,we shall be all dead andgone! The trees perhaps are cut down out of which our coffins will be made—theshroudsperhapsarewovenwhichwill surroundourbodies—thespadesperhapsaremadewhichwill dig our graves. Eternity draws near! There ought to be no trifling.

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"What,whatisyourhopeaboutyoursoul?"

Anotherworldwillsoonbegin.Trade,politics,money,lands,cottages,palaces,eating,drinking,dressing,reading,playing,working,dancing,feasting—willsoonbeatanendforever. There will remain nothing but a heaven for some, and a hell for others!"What,whatisyourhopeaboutyoursoul?"

Ihaveaskedmyquestion.AndnowIaskeveryreaderasinthesightofGod,Whatisyourreply?

Manywouldsay—iftheyspokethetruth,"Idon'tknowanythingaboutit.IsupposeIamnotwhatIoughttobe.IdaresayIoughttohavemorereligionthanIhave.ItrustIshallhavemoresomeday.Butastoanyhopeatpresent—Ireallydon'tknow!"

Icanquitebelievethatthis isthestateofmany.Ihaveseenenoughofthespiritualignoranceofpeopletofillmewithdeepsorrow.Iamconvincedthatthereisnoerror,orheresy,or"ism,"which is ruiningsomanysoulsas theheresyof ignorance. IamconvincedthattherearemyriadsofprofessorsinEnglandwhodonotevenknowtheABC'sofChristianity,andarenothingbetterthanbaptizedheathen!Ihaveheardofaman,inhislastdays,whoseonlyhopewas,"thathehadalwayskepthisChurch,andvotedfortheBlues."Ihaveheardofawoman,whowasaskedonherdeath-bedwhere shehoped togo, and said, "Shehoped she shouldgowith the crowd." Ihavelittledoubt that thereare thousandsof people in this countrywho aremuch in thesamecondition,knowingnothingwhateverabouttheirstatebeforeGod.Ifthisbetheconditionofanyreaderofthispaper,Icanonlysay,MayGodconvertyou!MayGodawakenyou!MayGodopenyoureyesbeforeitistoolate!

"When we deal with the carnal, secure, careless sinners (and they are a vastmultitude),andaskthemareasonofthathopeofheaventheypretendto,isnotthistheir common answer, "I live inoffensively; I keep God's law as well as I can;wheneverIfail,Irepent,andbegGod'smercyforChrist'ssake—myheart issincere,thoughmy knowledge and attainments be short of others." If we go on further toinquirewhatacquaintancetheyhavewithJesusChrist?whatapplicationtheirsoulshavemadetoHim?whatworkingsoffaithonHim?whatusetheyhavemadeofHisrighteousnessforjustification,andofHisSpiritforsanctification?whattheyknowoflivingby faithonJesusChrist?—weseemtobebarbarians to them!And in this sadstate thousands in England live, and die, and perish eternally. Yet so thick is thedarknessoftheage,thatmanyofthemlivehereandgohencewiththereputationofgood Christians; and some of them may have their funeral sermon and praisepreachedbyanignorant flatteringminister; though itmaybe thepoorcreaturesdidnever,in thewholecourseof their lives,norat theirdeaths,employJesusChristsomuchforanyentrytoheaven,purchasedbyHisbloodandaccessiblebyfaithinHim—asapoorTurkdoesMahometforaroominhisbeastlyparadise!"—Traill.

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LookatthatmanwhogoestotheBankofEnglandonadividendday,andaskstobepaidalargesumofmoney.Ishisnamedownamongthelistofpeopletobepaid?No!—Hasheany titleorright toclaimpayment?No!Hehasnone!Heonlyknowsthatother people are receivingmoney, and that he would like to receive some too. Youknow well that you would call the man "out of his mind;" you would say he wasnothingbetterthanamadman.Butstop!Takecarewhatyouaresaying!Youaretherealmadman,ifyoumeantoclaimheavenatlast,whenyouhavenotitle,nowarrant,nogroundofhopetoshow.Oncemore,Isay—MayGodopenyoureyes!

Butmany, Ibelieve,would reply tomyquestion that "theyhavehope."Theywouldsay, "Iamnotasbadassome,atanyrate. Iamnoheathen. I amno infidel. Ihavesomehopeaboutmysoul."

If this be your case, I beseech you to consider calmly what your hope really is. Ientreatyounottobecontentwithsaying,likeaparrot,"Ihope—Ihope—Ihope;"buttoexamineseriously into thenatureof your confidence, and tomake sure that it iswell-founded.Isitahopeyoucanexplain?Isitscriptural?IsitbuiltonChrist?Isitfelt in your heart? Is it sanctifying to your life? All is not gold that glitters. I havewarned you already that there is a false hope as well as a true hope—I offer thewarning again. I beseech you to take heed that you be not deceived. Beware ofmistakes.

ThereareshipslyingquietlyinLondondocks,abouttosailforeverypartoftheglobe.Theyalllookequallytrustworthy,solongastheyareinharbor;theyhaveallequallygoodnames,andareequallywell-riggedandpainted—buttheyarenotallequallywell-builtandequallysafe.Onceletthemputtosea,andmeetwithroughweather,andthedifferencebetweenthesoundandunsoundshipswillsoonappear.Manyashipwhichlookedwellindockhasprovednotsea-worthywhenshegotintodeepwater,andhasgonedownatlastwithallhandsonboard!Justsoitiswithmanyafalsehope.Ithasfailed completely, when most needed—it has broken down at last, and ruined itspossessor'ssoul.Youwillsoonhavetoputtosea.Isayagain,bewareofmistakes!

I leavemyquestionhere. I earnestlypray thatGodmayapply it to theheartsof allwho read this paper. I am sure it ismuchneeded. I believe there neverwas a timewhen there was so much counterfeit religion current, and so many "false hopes"passingofffortrue.Thereneverwasatimewhentherewassomuchhighprofession,and so little spiritual practice, somuch loud talk about preachers, and parties, andChurches,andsolittleclosewalkingwithGod,andrealworkoftheSpirit.Thereisnolack of blossoms in Christendom—but there is a melancholy scarcity of ripe fruit.There is an abundance of controversial theology—but a dearth of practical holiness.Therearemyriadswhohaveanametolive—butfewwhoseheartsarereallygiventoJesusChrist—fewwhoseaffectionsarereallysetonthingsabove.Therewillbesomeawfulfailuresyet inmanyquarters—therewillbestillmoreawfuldisclosuresat the

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lastday.Therearemanyhopesnow-a-days,whichareutterlydestituteoffoundation.Isay,forthelasttime,Bewareofmistakes.

(2)MysecondwordofapplicationshallbeaREQUEST. Imake it toall readersofthis paper who feel they have no hope and desire to have it. It is a short simplerequest.Ientreatthemtoseek"agoodhope"whileitcanbefound.

Agoodhopeiswithinthereachofanyman,ifheisonlywillingtoseekit.ItiscalledemphaticallyinScripture,a"goodhopethroughgrace."Itisfreelyoffered,evenasitwasfreelypurchased—itmaybefreelyobtained,"withoutmoneyandwithoutprice."Our past lives do notmake it impossible to obtain it, however bad they may havebeen;ourpresentweaknessesandinfirmitiesdonotshutusout,howevergreattheymaybe.Thesamegracewhichprovidedmankindwithahope,makesafree,full,andunlimitedinvitation."Whoeverwill,lethimtakethewateroflifefreely.""Ask,anditshallbegivenyou;seek,andyoushallfind."(Rev.22:17;Matt.7:7.)

TheLordJesusChristisableandwillingtogive"agoodhope"toallwhoreallywantit.He is sealedandappointedbyGod theFather togive thebreadof life toallwhohunger, and the water of life to all who thirst. "It pleased the Father that in Himshouldallfullnessdwell."(Coloss.1:19.)InHimthereispardonandpeacewithGod,boughtbythepreciousbloodwhichHesheduponthecross.InHimthereisjoyandpeaceforanybeliever,andasolid,well-groundedexpectationofgoodthingstocome.InHimthereisrestfortheweary,refugeforthefearful,acleansingfountainfortheunclean,medicineforthesick,healingforthebroken-hearted,andhopeforthelost.Whoever feels laboring and heavy-laden with sin, whoever feels anxious anddistressedabouthissoul,whoeverfeelsafraidofdeathandunfittodie—whoeverheis,lethimgotoChristandtrustinHim.Thisisthethingtobedone—thisisthewaytofollow.Whoeverwants"hope,"lethimgotoChrist.

Ifanyreaderofthispaperreallywantstoenjoyagoodhope,lethimseekitfromtheLordJesusChrist.There iseveryencouragement todo so.TheThessalonians inoldtime were, like the Ephesians, dead in trespasses and sins, having no hope, andwithoutGod in theworld; butwhen Paul preached Jesus to them, they arose fromtheirmiserable stateandbecamenewpeople.Godgave thema "goodhope throughgrace."ThedoorthroughwhichManassehandMagdaleneentered, isstillopen!ThefountaininwhichZacchaeusandMatthewwerewashed,isstillunsealed!SeekhopefromChrist,andyoushallfindit.

Seekithonestly,andwithnosecretreserve.Theruinofmanyisthattheyarenotfairandstraightforward.Theysaythatthey"tryasmuchastheycan,"andthattheyreally"want to be saved," and that they really "look toChrist;" and yet in the chamber oftheir own heart there lies some darling sin, to which they privately cling, and areresolvednot togive itup.Theyare likeAugustine,whosaid, "Lordconvertme—but

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notnow."Seekhonestly,ifyouwishtofindagoodhope.

Seekitinhumbleprayer.PouroutyourheartbeforetheLordJesus,andtellHimallthe needs of your soul.Doasyouwouldhavedonehadyou lived inGalileeeighteenhundredyearsago,andhada leprosy—godirectly toChrist,andlaybeforeHimyourcares!TellHimthatyouareapoor,sinfulcreature—butthatyouhaveheardHeisagraciousSavior,andthatyoucometoHimfor"hope"foryoursoul.TellHimthatyouhavenothingtosayforyourself—noexcusetomake,nothingofyourowntoplead—butthatyouhaveheardthatHe"receivessinners,"andassuchyoucometoHim.(Luke15:2.)

Seek it at oncewithout delay. Halt no more between two opinions—do not lingeranotherday.Castawaytheremnantsofpridewhicharestillkeepingyouback—drawnear toJesusasaheavy-laden sinner, and "layholdupon thehope setbeforeyou."(Heb.6:18.)Thisisthepointtowhichallmustcomeatlastiftheymeantobesaved.Soonerorlatertheymustknockatthedoorofgraceandasktobeadmitted.Whynotdoitatonce?Whystandstilllookingatthebreadoflife?Whynotcomeforwardandeatit?Whyremainoutsidethecityofrefuge?Whynotenterinandbesafe?Whynotseekhopeatonce,andneverrestuntilyoufindit?NeverdidsoulseekhonestlyinthewayIhavemarkedout,andfailtofind.

ThewordsofTraillonthispointofcomingtoChristbyfaith,deservemanythoughts.Theythrowlightonasubjectwhichisconstantlymisunderstood.Hesays,"Whenwecome todealwith apoor, awakened sinner,who sees his lost estate, and that he iscondemned by the law of God, we find the same principles (pride and ignorance)working inhim.We seehim sick andwounded—we tell himwherehis help lies, inJesusChrist;andwhathisproperworkis,toapplytoHimbyfaith.Whatishisanswer—'Alas,'saystheman,'Ihavebeen,andIamsovileasinner,myheartissobad,andsofullofplaguesandcorruptions,thatIcannotthinkofbelievingonChrist.ButifIhadbutrepentance,andsomeholinessinheartandlife,andsuchandsuchgraciousqualifications—Iwouldthenbelieve.'Thishisanswerisasfullofnonsense,ignoranceandpride,aswordscancontainorexpress.Itimplies—

(1)IfIwereprettywellrecovered,IwouldemploythePhysician,Christ.

(2)Thereissomehopetoworkoutthesegoodthingsbymyself,withoutChrist.

(3)WhenIcometoChristwithapriceinmyhandIshallbewelcome.

(4)IcancometoChristwhenIwill.

SoignorantarepeoplenaturallyoffaithinJesusChrist;andnowords,orwarnings,orplainest instructions can beat intomen's heads and hearts that the first coming toChristbyfaith,andbelievingonHim,isnotabelievingweshallbesavedbyHim—but

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abelievingonHim,thatwemaybesavedbyHim."—Traill'sWorks.

(3)My lastwordofapplicationshallbeCOUNSEL. Ioffer it toallwhohavereallyobtained"goodhopethroughgrace."IofferittoallwhoarereallyleaningonChrist,walkinginthenarrowway,and ledbytheSpiritofGod.Iaskthemtoacceptadvicefrom one who hopes that he is "their brother and companion in the kingdom andpatienceofJesusChrist"(Rev.1:9.)Ibelievetheadvicetobesoundandgood.

(a) If you have a goodhopebe zealousandwatchful over it. Beware thatSatandoesnotstealitawayforaseason,ashedidfromDavidandPeter.Bewarethatyoudonotlosesightof itbygivingwaytoinconsistencies,andbyconformityto theworld.Examineitoften,andmakesurethatitisnotbecomingdim.Keepitbrightbydaily carefulness over your temper, thoughts, andwords.Keep it healthy by hearty,fervent,andcontinualprayer.ThehopeoftheChristianisaverydelicateplant.Itisanexoticfromabove—itisnotaplantofnaturalgrowth.Itiseasilychilledandnippedbythecoldfrostsofthisworld.Unlesswateredandtendedcarefully,itwillsoondwindleawaytoamerenothing,andscarcelybefeltorseen.NonefindoutthissopainfullyasdyingbelieverswhohavenotwalkedverycloselywithGod.Theyfindthattheyhavesown thorns in theirdyingpillows,andbrought cloudsbetween themselvesand thesun.

(b)Foranotherthing,ifyouhaveagoodhope,keepitalwaysready.Haveitatyourrighthand,preparedforimmediateuse—lookatitoften,andtakecarethatitisingoodorder.Trialsoftenbreakinuponussuddenly,likeanarmedman.Sicknessesand injuries to our mortal frame sometimes lay us low on our beds without anywarning.Happyishewhokeepshislampwelltrimmed,andlivesinthedailysenseofcommunionwithChrist!

Didyoueverseeafire-engineinsomeoldcountryhouse?Didyoueverremarkhowoftenitliesformonthsinadarkshed,untouched,unexamined,anduncleaned?Thevalvesareoutoforder;theleatherhoseisfullofholes;thepumpsarerustyandstiff.Ahousemightbealmostburnttothegroundbeforeitcouldliftapailfulofwater.Initspresentstateitisawell-nearuselessmachine.

Didyoueverseeashipindockatharbor?Thehullmayperhapsbegoodandsound;the keel and topsides, and timbers andbeams, anddecksmay be all that you coulddesire.Butsheisnotrigged,orstored,orarmed,orfitforservice.Itwouldtakeweeksandmonthstomakeherreadyforsea.Inherpresentstateshecoulddolittleforhercountry'sdefense.Thehopeofmanyabelieverislikethatfire-engine,andthatship.Itexists,itlives,itisreal,itistrue,itissound—itisgood—itcamedownfromheaven—itwasimplantedbytheHolySpirit.But,alas, it isnotreadyforuse!Itspossessorwillfindthatout,byhisownlackofjoyandsensiblecomfort,whenhecomestohisdeath-bed.Bewarethatyourhopebenotahopeofthiskind.Ifyouhaveahopekeepitready

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foruse,andwithinreachofyourhand.

(c)Foranotherthing,ifyouhaveagoodhope,seekandpraythatitmaygrowmoreandmorestrongeveryyear.Donotbecontentwitha"dayofsmallthings;"covetthebestgifts—desiretoenjoyfullassurance.StrivetoattaintoPaul'sstandard,and tobeable to say, "IknowwhomIhavebelieved." "Iampersuaded thatneitherdeathnorlifeshallseparatemefromtheloveofGodwhichisinJesusChrist."(2Tim.1:12;Rom.8:38.)

Believeme, thispartofmycounsel isone thatdeservescloseattention.Believeme,the things before us all will try our hope of what sort it is. Sickness and death aresolemn things. They strip off all the tinsel and paint from a man's religion; theydiscover the weak places in our Christianity; they strain our hopes to the veryuttermost,andoftenmakeuswellneardespair.OldChristian, inPilgrim'sProgress,had a sore trial at his latter end in crossing the cold river before he entered thecelestialcity.Faithfulandtrueashewas,hestillcriedout,"Allyourbillowsgooverme,"andhadahardstruggletokeephisfooting.Maywealllaythistoheart!MayweseektoknowandfeelthatweareonewithChristandChristinus!Hethathashopedoeswell;buthethathasassurancedoesbetter.Blessedindeedaretheywho"aboundinhopethroughthepoweroftheHolySpirit."(Rom.15:13.)

(d)Finally, ifyouhaveagoodhope,bethankful for it,andgiveGoddailypraise.Whohasmadeyoutodifferfromtheperishingworldaroundyou?Whyhaveyoubeentaughttofeelyoursins,andnothingness,whileothersareignorantandself-righteous?Why have you been taught to look to Jesus,while others are looking totheirowngoodness,orrestingonsomemereformofreligion?Whyareyoulongingandstriving tobeholy,whileothersarecaring fornothingbut thisworld?Whyarethesethingsso?Thereisbutoneanswer,Grace,grace,freegrace,hasdoneitall.ForthatgracepraiseGod.Forthatgracebethankful.

Goon,then,toyourjourney'send,"rejoicinginhopeofthegloryofGod."(Rom.5:2.)Go on, rejoicing in the thought that though you are a poor sinner Jesus is amostgraciousSavior,andthatthoughyouhavetrialshereforalittleseason,heavenshallsoonmakeamendsforall.

Goon,wearinghopeasahelmetinallthebattlesoflife—ahopeofpardon,ahopeofperseverance,ahopeofacquittalinthejudgmentday,ahopeoffinalglory.Putonthebreast-plateofrighteousness;taketheshieldoffaith;haveyourloinsgirtaboutwithtruth;wieldvaliantlytheswordoftheSpirit.Butneverforget—aseveryouwouldbeahappyChristian—neverforgettoputonthe"helmetofhope."(1Thess.5:8.)

Go on, in spite of an ill-natured world, and be not moved by its laughter or itspersecution, its slandersor its sneers.Comfortyourheartwith the thought that the

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timeisshort,thegoodthingsyettocome,thenightfarspent,the"morningwithoutclouds"athand. (2Sam.23:4.)When thewickedmandieshisexpectationperishes;butyourexpectationshallnotdeceiveyou—yourrewardissure.

Goon,andbenotcastdownbecauseyouaretroubledbydoubtsandfears.Youareyetinthebody—thisworldisnotyourrest.Thedevilhatesyoubecauseyouhaveescapedfromhim,andhewilldoallhecantorobyouofpeace.Thevery fact thatyouhavefearsisanevidencethatyoufeelyouhavesomethingtolose.ThetrueChristianmayeverbediscernedbyhiswarfare—quite asmuch as byhis peace; andbyhis fears—quiteasmuchasbyhishopes.Theshipsatanchormayswingtoandfrowiththetide,andpitchheavilyinasouth-easterngale;butsolongastheiranchorsholdthegroundthey ride safely, and have no cause to fear. The hope of the true Christian is the"anchorofhissoul,sureandsteadfast." (Heb.6:19.)Hisheartmaybe tossed toandfro sometimes—but he is safe in Christ. The wavesmay swell, and lift him up anddown—buthewillnotbewrecked.

Goon,and"hopetotheendforthegracethatistobebroughttoyouattherevelationofJesusChrist."(1Pet.1:13.)Yetalittletime,andfaithshallbechangedtosight,andhope tocertainty—youshall seeevenasyouhavebeenseen,andknowevenasyouhavebeenknown.A fewmore tossings toand froon thewavesof this troublesomeworld—afewmorebattlesandconflictswithourspiritualenemy—afewmoreyearsoftearsandpartings,ofworkingandsuffering,ofcrossesandcares,ofdisappointmentsandvexations,andthen—thenweshallbeathome!Theharbor lightsarealready inview—thehavenofrestisnotfaroff.Thereweshall findall thatwehavehopedfor,andfindthatitwasamilliontimesbetterthanourhopes.Thereweshallfindallthesaints,andnosin,nocaresofthisworld,nomoney,nosickness,nodeath,nodevil.There,aboveall,weshallfindJesus,andbeeverwiththeLord!(1Thess.4:17.)Letushopeon.ItisworthwhiletocarrythecrossandfollowChrist.Let theworldlaughandmock,ifitwill;itisworthwhiletohave"agoodhopethroughgrace,"andbeathoroughdecidedChristian.Isayagain—Letushopeon!

AliveorDead?

"AndHehasmadeyoualive,whowereoncedeadintrespassesandsins."Ephesians2:1

Thequestionwhichformsthetitleofthispaperdeservesathousandthoughts.Iinviteeveryreaderofthisvolumetolookatitcarefully,andponderitwell.Searchyourownheart,anddonotlaydownthisbookwithoutsolemnself-inquiry.Areyouamongthe

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living,oramongthedead?

Listen tomewhile I try to help you to an answer.Giveme your attention, while Iunfoldthismatter,andshowyouwhatGodhassaidaboutitintheScriptures.IfIsayhardthings,itisnotbecauseIdonotloveyou.IwriteasIdo,becauseIdesireyoursalvation.Heisyourbestfriendwhotellsyouthemosttruth.

I.First then, letme tell youwhatwe all are by nature.We are spirituallyDEAD!

"Dead"isastrongword—butitisnotmyowncoiningandinvention.Ididnotchooseit. TheHoly Spirit taught Paul towrite it down about the Ephesians, ""AndHe hasmadeyoualive,whowereoncedead in trespassesandsins."TheLordJesusChristmadeuseofitintheparableoftheprodigalson,"Thismysonwasdeadand isaliveagain."(Luke15:24,32.)YouwillreaditalsointhefirstEpistletoTimothy,"Shethatlives in pleasure isdeadwhile she lives." (1 Tim. 5:6.) Shall amortalman be wiseabove thatwhich iswritten?Must Inot takeheed to speak thatwhich I find in theBible,andneitherlessnormore?

"Dead" isanawful idea,andonethatmanismostunwilling toreceive.Hedoesnotlike to allow the whole extent of his soul's disease—he shuts his eyes to the realamountofhisdanger.Manyaonewillallowustosay,thatnaturallymostpeople"arenotquitewhat they ought to be—they are thoughtless—they are unsteady—they aremirthful—they arewild—they are not serious enough."But dead?Oh, no!Wemustnotmentionit.Itisgoingtoofartosaythat.Theideaisastoneofstumbling,andarockofoffence."

"Thisisthereasonwearenobetter,becauseourdiseaseisnotperfectlyknown—thisis the reason we are no better, because we know not how bad we are."—Usher'sSermons,preachedatOxford,1650.

Butwhatwelikeinreligionisofverylittleconsequence.Theonlyquestionis,Whatiswritten?WhatsaystheLord?God'sthoughtsarenotman'sthoughts,andGod'swordsare not man's words. God says of every living person who is not a real, thorough,genuine, decided Christian, be he high or low, rich or poor, old or young—he isspirituallydead.

In this, as in everything else, God's words are right. Nothing could be said morecorrect,nothingmoreaccurate,nothingmorefaithful,nothingmoretrue.Stayalittle,andletmereasonthisoutwithyou.Comeandsee.

Whatwouldyouhavesaid,ifyouhadseenJosephweepingoverhisfatherJacob?"Hefelluponhisface,andweptuponhim,andkissedhim."(Gen.50:1.)Buttherewasnoreplytohisaffection.Allaboutthatagedcountenancewasunmoved,silent,andstill.

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Doubtlessyouwouldhaveguessedthereason.Jacobwasdead.

Whatwouldyouhavesaid,ifyouhadheardtheLevitespeakingtohiswife,whenhefoundherlyingbeforethedoorinGibeah?"Up,"hesaid,"andletusbegoing.Butshedid not answer." (Judges 19:28.) His words were thrown away. There she lay,motionless,stiff,andcold.Youknowthecause.Shewasdead.

Whatwould you have thought, if you had seen the Amalekite stripping Saul of hisroyalornaments inMountGilboa?He"took fromhim the crown thatwasuponhishead,andthebracelet thatwasonhisarm." (2Sam.1:10.)Therewasnoresistance.Notamusclemovedinthatproudface—notafingerwasraisedtopreventhim.Andwhy?Saulwasdead.

Whatwould youhave thought, if youhadmet thewidow's son in the gate ofNain,lyinginacoffin,wrappedaboutwithgrave-clothes, followedbyhisweepingmother,carriedslowlytowardsthetomb?(Luke7:12.)Doubtlessitwouldhavebeenallcleartoyou.Itwouldhaveneedednoexplanation.Theyoungmanwasdead.

NowIsaythisisjusttheconditionofeverymanbynatureinthematterofhissoul.Isay this is just thestateof thevastmajorityofpeoplearoundus inspiritual things.Godcallstothemcontinually—bymercies,byafflictions,byministers,byHisword—buttheydonothearHisvoice.TheLordJesusChristmournsoverthem,pleadswiththem,sendsthemgraciousinvitations,knocksatthedooroftheirhearts—buttheydonotregardit.Thecrownandgloryoftheirbeing,thatprecious jewel, their immortalsoul, is being seized,plundered, and takenaway—and they are utterly unconcerned.The devil is carrying them away, day after day, along the broad road that leads todestruction—and they allowhim tomake themhis captiveswithout a struggle.Andthisisgoingoneverywhere—allaroundus—amongallclasses—throughoutthelengthandbreadthoftheland.Youknowitinyourownconsciencewhileyoureadthispaper—youmustbeawareofit.Youcannotdenyit.Andwhatthen,Iask,canbesaidmoreperfectlytruethanthatwhichGodsays—weareallbynaturespirituallydead?

Yes!whenaman'sheartiscoldandunconcernedaboutreligion—whenhishandsareneveremployedindoingGod'swork—whenhisfeetarenotfamiliarwithGod'sways—whenhistongueisseldomorneverusedinprayerandpraise—whenhisearsaredeafto the voice of Christ in the Gospel—when his eyes are blind to the beauty of thekingdomofheaven—whenhismindisfulloftheworld,andhasnoroomforspiritualthings—whenthesemarksaretobefoundinaman,thewordoftheBibleistherightwordtouseabouthim—andthatwordis,"Dead."

Wemaynot likethisperhaps.Wemayshutoureyesbothto facts in theworld,andtextsintheWord.ButGod'struthmustbespoken,andtokeepitbackdoespositiveharm.Truthmustbespoken,howevercondemningitmaybe.Solongasamandoes

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notserveGodwithbody,soul,andspirit,heisnotreallyalive.Solongasheputsthefirst things last and the last first, buries his talent like anunprofitable servant, andbringstheLordnorevenueofhonor,solonginGod'ssightheisdead.Heisnotfillingthe place in creation for which he was intended; he is not using his powers andfacultiesasGodmeantthemtobeused.Thepoet'swordsarestrictlytrue—

"Heonlylives,wholivestoGod,Andallaredeadbeside."

Thisisthetrueexplanationofsinnotfelt,andsermonsnotbelieved—andgoodadvicenot followed—and the Gospel not embraced—and the world not forsaken—and thecrossnottakenup—andself-willnotmortified—andevilhabitsnotlaidaside—andtheBibleseldomread—andthekneeneverbent inprayer.Why isall thisoneveryside.Theanswerissimple—Menaredead!

This is the true account of that army of excuses, which so many make "with oneconsent."Somehaveno learning,andsomehaveno time.Someare consumedwithbusiness and the care of money, and some with poverty. Some have difficulties intheir own families, and some in their own health. Some have peculiar obstacles intheircalling,whichothers,wearetold,cannotunderstand;andothershavepeculiardrawbacksathome,andtheywaittohavethemremoved.ButGodhasashorterwordin the Bible, which describes all these people at once. He says, They are dead. Ifspirituallifebeganinthesepeople'shearts,theirexcuseswouldsoonvanishaway.

This is the true explanation ofmany thingswhichwring a faithfulminister's heart.Manyaroundhimneverattendaplaceofworshipatall.Manyattendso irregularly,that it is clear they think it of no importance.Many attend once on a Sundaywhomight just as easily attend twice. Many never come to the Lord's table—and neverappearataweekdaymeansof graceof anykind.Andwhy is all this?Often, far toooften,therecanbeonlyonereplyaboutthesepeople—Theyaredead.

SeenowhowallprofessingChristiansshouldexaminethemselvesandtrytheirownstate.Itisnotinchurchyardsalonewherethedeadaretobefound;thereareonlytoomanyinsideourchurches,andclosetoourpulpits—toomanyonthebenches,andtoomany in thepews.The land is like thevalley inEzekiel'svision, "fullofbones,verymany,andverydry." (Ezek.37:2)Therearedeadsouls inallourparishes,anddeadsoulsinallourstreets.ThereishardlyafamilyinwhichalllivetoGod;thereishardlyahouseinwhichthereisnotsomeonedead.Oh,letusallsearchandlookathome!Letusproveourownselves.Arewealiveordead?

See, too,howsad is theconditionofallwhohavegonethroughnospiritualchange,whoseheartsarestillthesameasinthedaytheywereborn.Thereisamountainofdivisionbetweenthemandheaven.Theyhaveyetto"passfromdeathtolife."(1John

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3:14.)Oh,thattheydidbutseeandknowtheirdanger!Alas,itisonefearfulmarkofspiritual death, that, like natural death—it is not felt! We lay our beloved onestenderlyandgently in theirnarrowbeds—but they feelnothingofwhatwedo. "Thedead," says thewiseman, "knownothing." (Eccl.9:5.)And this is just the casewithdeadsouls.

See,too,whatreasonministershavetobeanxiousabouttheircongregations.Wefeelthat time is short, and lifeuncertain.Weknow thatdeath spiritual is thehigh roadthat leads todeath eternal.We fear lest anyof ourhearers shoulddie in their sins,unprepared, unrenewed, impenitent, unchanged. Oh, marvel not if we often speakstronglyandpleadwithyouwarmly!Wedarenotgiveyouflatteringtitles,amuseyouwith trifles, say smooth things, and cry "Peace, peace," when life and death are atstake,andnothingless.Theplagueisamongyou.Wefeelthatwestandbetweenthelivingandthedead.Wemustandwill"usegreatplainnessofspeech.""Ifthetrumpetgives an uncertain sound,who shall prepare himself for the battle?" (2 Cor. 3:12; 1Cor.14:8.)

II.Letme tell you, in the second place,what everymanneedswhowouldbesaved.Hemustbequickenedandmadespirituallyalive.

Life is the mightiest of all possessions. From death to life is the mightiest of allchanges.Andnochangeshortofthiswilleveravailtofitman'ssoulforheaven.Yes!itisnotalittlemendingandalteration—alittlecleansingandpurifying—alittlepaintingandpatching—a littlewhitewashing and varnishing—a little turning over a new leafand putting on a new outside that is needed. It is the bringing in of somethingaltogethernew—theplantingwithinusofanewnature,anewbeing—anewprinciple—anewmind.Thisalone,andnothinglessthanthis,willevermeetthenecessitiesofman'ssoul.Weneednotmerelyanewskin—butanewheart.

"Itisnotalittlereformingwillsavetheman,no,norallthemoralityintheworld,norallthecommongracesofGod'sspirit,northeoutwardchangeofthelife;theywillnotdo,unlesswearequickened,andhaveanewlifewroughtinus."—Usher'sSermons.

Tohewablockofmarblefromthequarry—andcarveitintoanoblestatue;tobreakup a waste wilderness—and turn it into a garden of flowers; to melt a lump ofironstone—andforgoitintowatch-springs—allthesearemightychanges.YettheyallcomeshortofthechangewhicheverychildofAdamrequires,fortheyaremerelythesamethinginanewform,andthesamesubstanceinanewshape.Butmanrequiresthe grafting in of that which he had not before. He needs a change as great as aresurrection fromthedead—hemustbecomeanewcreature. "Old thingsmust passaway, and all thingsmust becomenew."Hemust be "born again, born from above,bornofGod."Thenaturalbirth isnotawhitmorenecessary to the lifeof thebody,thanisthespiritualbirthtothelifeofthesoul.(2Cor.5:17.John3:3.)

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Iknowwellthisisahardsaying.Iknowthechildrenofthisworlddisliketohearthatthey must be born again. It pricks their consciences—it makes them feel they arefurther off fromheaven than they arewilling to allow. It seems like a narrowdoorwhichtheyhavenotyetstoopedtoenter,andtheywouldgladlymakethedoorwider,orclimb insomeotherway.ButIdarenotgiveplacebysubjection in thismatter. Iwillnotfosteradelusion,andtellpeopletheyonlyneedrepentalittle,andstirupagift they have within them, in order to become real Christians. I dare not use anyotherlanguagethanthatoftheBible;andIsay,inthewordswhicharewrittenforourlearning,"Weallneedtobebornagain—weareallnaturallydead,andmustbemadealive."

IfwehadseenManasseh,KingofJudah,atonetimefillingJerusalemwithidols,andmurderinghischildreninhonoroffalsegods—andthenatanothertimepurifyingthetemple, puttingdown idolatry, and living a godly life; ifwe had seenZacchaeus thepublican of Jericho, at one time cheating, plundering, and covetous—at anotherfollowingChrist,andgivinghalfhisgoodstothepoor;ifwehadseentheservantsofNero's household, at one time conforming to their master's profligate ways—atanotherofoneheartandmindwiththeApostlePaul;ifwehadseentheancientfatherAugustine,atone time living in fornication—atanotherwalkingcloselywithGod; ifwehadseenourownReformerLatimer,atonetimepreachingearnestlyagainst thetruthasit isinJesus—atanotherspendingandbeingspenteventodeathinChrist'scause; ifwehadseentheNewZealanders,orTinnevellyHindus,atone timeblood-thirsty, immoral, or sunk in abominable superstitions—at another holy, pure, andbelievingChristians; ifwehad seen thesewonderful changes, or anyof them, I askanysensibleChristianwhatwewouldhavesaid?Wouldwehavebeencontenttocallthemnothingmorethanamendmentsandalterations?wouldwehavebeensatisfiedwith saying that Augustine had "reformed his ways," and that Latimer had "turnedoveranewleaf"?Verilyifwesaidnomorethanthis,theverystoneswouldcryout.Isayinallthesecasestherewasnothinglessthananewbirth,aresurrectionofhumannature,aquickeningofthedead.Thesearetherightwordstouse.Allotherlanguageisweak,poor,beggarly,unscriptural,andshortofthetruth.

NowIwillnotshrinkfromsayingplainly,weallneedthesamekindofchange,ifwearetobesaved.ThedifferencebetweenusandanyofthoseIhavejustnamedisfarless than it appears. Take off the outward crust, and youwill find the same naturebeneath,inusandthem—anevilnature,requiringacompletechange.Thefaceoftheearth is very different in different climates—but the heart of the earth, I believe, iseverywherethesame.Gowhereyouwill,fromoneendtotheother,youwouldalwaysfind thegranite,orotherprimitiverocks,beneathyour feet, ifyouonlyboreddowndeep enough. And it is just the same with men's hearts. Their customs and theircolors, their ways and their laws, may all be utterly unlike; but the inner man isalways the same. Their hearts are all alike at the bottom—all stony, all hard, allungodly, all needing to be thoroughly renewed. The Englishman and the New

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Zealander standon the same level in thismatter.Both arenaturallydead, andbothneedtobemadealive.BotharechildrenofthesamefatherAdamwhofellbysin,andbothneedtobe"bornagain,"andmadechildrenofGod.

Whateverpartoftheglobewelivein,oureyesneedtobeopened—naturallyweneversee our sinfulness, guilt, and danger. Whatever nation we belong to ourunderstandingsneedtobeenlightened—naturallyweknowlittleornothingoftheplan of salvation—like the Babel-builders, we think to get to heaven our own way.Whateverchurchwemaybelongto,ourwillsneedtobebentintherightdirection—naturallywewouldneverchoosethethingswhichareforourpeace;wewouldnevercome to Christ. Whatever be our rank in life, our affections need to be turned tothings above—naturally we only set them on things below, earthly, sensual, short-lived, and vain. Pride must give place to humility—self-righteousness to self-abasement—carelessness to seriousness—worldliness to holiness—unbelief to faith.Satan'sdominionmustbeputdownwithinus, and thekingdomofGodsetup.Selfmustbecrucified,andChristmustreign.Untilthesethingscometopass,wearedeadasstones.Whenthesethingsbegintotakeplace,andnotuntilthen,wearespirituallyalive.

"Man'sunderstandingissodarkenedthathecanseenothingofGodinGod,nothingofholinessinholiness,nothingofgoodingood,nothingofevilinevil,noranythingofsinfulnessinsin.Nay,itissodarkenedthathefancieshimselftoseegoodinevil,andevilingood,happinessinsin,andmiseryinholiness."—Berridge

Idaresaythissoundslikefoolishnesstosome.Butmanyalivingmancouldstandupthisdayand testify that it is true.Manyanonecould tellus thatheknows itallbyexperience,andthathedoesindeedfeelhimselfanewman.Helovesthethingsthatonce he hated, and hates the things that once he loved. He has new habits, newcompanions, new ways, new tastes, new feelings, new opinions, new sorrows, newjoys,newanxieties,newpleasures,newhopes,andnewfears.Inshort,thewholebiasand current of his being is changed.Askhis nearest relations and friends, and theywouldbearwitnesstoit.Whethertheylikeditornot,theywouldbeobligedtoconfesshewasnolongerthesame.

"Howwonderfullydoesthenewbornsouldifferfromhisformerself.Helivesanewlife,hewalksinanewway,hesteershiscoursebyanewcompass,andtowardsanewcoast.Hisprinciple isnew,hispattern isnew,hispracticesarenew,hisprojectsarenew, all is new.He ravels out all he hadwove before, and employs himself whollyaboutanotherwork."—GeorgeSwinnocke.1660.

Many a one could tell you that once he did not think himself such a very greattransgressor.Atanyratehefanciedhewasnoworsethanothers.NowhewouldsaywiththeapostlePaul,hefeelshimselfthe"chiefofsinners."(1Tim.1.15.)

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"Icannotpray—butIsin—Icannothearorpreachasermon—butIsin—Icannotgivean alms, or receive the sacrament—but I sin—nay, I cannot somuch as confessmysins—butmy confessions are still aggravations of them.My repentance needs to berepentedof,mytearswantwashing,andtheverywashingofmytearsneedsstilltobewashedoveragainwiththebloodofmyRedeemer."—Beveridge.

"Woeisme,thatmanshouldthinkthereisanythinginme!Heismywitness,beforewhomIamascrystal, thatthesecrethouse-devils, thatbearmetoooftencompany,that the corruptionwhich I findwithin,makeme gowith low sails."—Rutherford'sLetters.1637.

Oncehedidnotconsiderhehadabadheart.Hemighthavehisfaults,andbeledawaybybadcompanyandtemptations—but 'hehadagoodheartat thebottom'.Nowhewould tell you,heknowsnoheart sobadashis own.He finds it "deceitfulaboveallthings,anddesperatelywicked."(Jer.17:6.)

Once he did not suppose it was a very hardmatter to get to heaven.Hethoughthehadonlytorepent,andsayafewprayers,anddowhathecould,andChristwouldmakeupwhatwaslacking.Nowhebelievesthewayisnarrow,andfewfindit.HeisconvincedhecouldneverhavemadehisownpeacewithGod.HeispersuadedthatnothingbutthebloodofChristcouldwashawayhissins.Hisonlyhopeistobe"justifiedbyfaithwithoutthedeedsofthelaw."(Rom.3:28.)

Oncehe could seenobeauty and excellence in theLord Jesus Christ.HecouldnotunderstandsomeministersspeakingsomuchaboutHim.NowhewouldtellyouHeisthepearlaboveallprice,thechiefamongtenthousand,hisRedeemer,hisAdvocate,hisPriest,hisKing,hisPhysician,hisShepherd,hisFriend,hisAll.

Oncehe thought lightly about sin.He could not see the necessity of being soparticularaboutit.Hecouldnotthinkaman'swords,andthoughts,andactions,wereofsuchimportance,andrequiredsuchwatchfulness.Nowhewouldtellyousinistheabominable thingwhichhehates, the sorrowandburdenofhis life.He longs tobemore holy.He can enter thoroughly intoWhitefield's desire, "I want to gowhere Ishallneithersinmyself,norseeotherssinanymore."

"IamsickofallIdo,andstandastonishedthattheRedeemerstillcontinuestomakeuseofandblessme.SurelyIammorefoolishthananyman—noonereceivessomuchanddoessolittle."—Whitefield'sLetters.

Once he foundno pleasure inmeans of grace.The Bible was neglected. Hisprayers,ifhehadany,wereamereform.Sundaywasatiresomeday.Sermonswereaweariness,andoftensenthimtosleep.Nowall isaltered.Thesethingsarethefood,thecomfort,thedelightofhissoul.

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Oncehedislikedearnest-mindedChristians.Heshunnedthemasmelancholy,low-spirited,weakpeople.Nowtheyaretheexcellentoftheearth,ofwhomhecannotseetoomuch.Heisneversohappyasheisintheircompany.Hefeelsifallmenandwomenweresaints,itwouldbeheavenuponearth.

Oncehecaredonlyforthisworld, itspleasures,itsbusiness, itsoccupations, itsrewards.Nowhe looksuponitasanempty,unsatisfyingplace;an inn—a lodging—atraining-schoolforthelifetocome.Histreasureisinheaven.Hishomeisbeyondthegrave.

Iaskoncemore,whatisallthisbutnewlife?SuchachangeasIhavedescribedisnovisionandfancy.Itisarealactualthing,whichnotafewinthisworldhaveknownorfelt.Itisnotapictureofmyownimagining.Itisatruethingwhichsomeofuscouldfindat thismoment hard by our owndoors.Butwherever such a change does takeplace, thereyousee the thingofwhich Iamnowspeaking—yousee thedeadmadealive,anewcreature,asoulbornagain."SothatifanyoneisinChrist, thatoneisanewcreature;old thingshavepassedaway;behold,all thingshavebecomenew." (2Corinthians5:17)

IwouldtoGodthatchangessuchasthisweremorecommon!Iwould toGodtherewerenot suchmultitudes, ofwhomwemust say evenweeping, they know nothingaboutthematteratall.But,commonornot,onethingIsayplainly,thisisthekindofchangeweallneed. I donothold that allmust have exactly the same experience. Iallow most fully that the change is different, in degree, extent, and intensity, indifferentpeople.Gracemaybeweak,andyettrue—lifemaybefeeble,andyetreal.ButIdoconfidentlyaffirmwemustallgothroughsomethingofthiskind,ifeverwemeantobesaved.Untilthissortofchangehastakenplace,thereisnolifeinusatall.WemaybelivingChurchmen—butwearedeadChristians.

"Ifwebestillouroldselves,nochangelingsatall, thesamemanthatwecame intothe world, without mortification of our corruptions, without addition of grace andsanctification, surely we must seek us another Father, we are not yet the sons ofGod."—Hall,1652.

"Ifyouhaveanything less thanregeneration,believeme,youcannever seeheaven.Thereisnohopeofheavenuntilthen—untilyouarebornagain."—Usher'sSermons.

Take ithome,everymanorwoman that reads thispaper, take ithome toyourownconscience,andlookatitwell.Sometimeorother,betweenthecradleandthegrave,allwhowouldbesavedmustbemadealive.ThewordswhichgoodoldBerridgehadengraved on his tombstone are faithful and true, "Reader! are you born again?Remember!nosalvationwithoutanewbirth."

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SeenowwhatanamazinggulfthereisbetweentheChristianinnameandform—andtheChristianindeedandtruth.Itisnotthedifferenceofonebeingalittlebetter,andtheothera littleworsethanhisneighbor—it is thedifferencebetweenastateof lifeandastateofdeath.ThesmallestbladeofgrassthatgrowsuponaHighlandmountainisamorenobleobjectthanthefairestwaxflowerthatwaseverformed;forithasthatwhich no science ofman can impart—has life. Themost splendid marble statue inGreece or Italy is nothing by the side of the poor sickly child that crawls over thecottagefloor;forwithallitsbeautyitisdead.AndtheweakestmemberofthefamilyofChristisfarhigherandmorepreciousinGod'seyesthanthemostgiftedmanoftheworld.TheonelivesuntoGod,andshallliveforever—theother,withallhisintellect,isstilldeadinsins.

Oh,youthathavepassed fromdeath to life,youhavereason indeedtobe thankful!Rememberwhatyouoncewerebynature—dead.Thinkwhatyouarenowbygrace—alive.Lookatthedrybonesthrownupfromthegraves.Suchwereyou;andwhohasmadeyoutodiffer?Goand fall lowbefore the footstoolofyourGod.BlessHimforHisgrace,Hisfreedistinguishinggrace.SaytoHimoften,"WhoamI,Lord,thatyouhavebroughtmehitherto?Whyme?Whyhaveyoubeenmercifuluntome?"

III.Letmetellyou,inthethirdplace—inwhatwayalonethisquickeningcanbebroughtabout—bywhatmeansadeadsoulcanbemadespirituallyalive.

Surely, if I did not tell you this, it would be cruelty to write what I have written.Surely,itwouldbeleadingyouintoadrearywilderness,andthenleavingyouwithoutbreadandwater.ItwouldbelikemarchingyoudowntotheRedSea,andthenbiddingyou walk over. It would be commanding you to make brick like Pharaoh, and yetrefusing to provide youwith straw. Itwould be like tying your hands and feet, andthendesiringyoutofightagoodwarfare,and"sorunastoobtaintheprize."Iwillnotdoso.Iwillnotleaveyou,untilIhavepointedoutthewicket-gatetowardswhichyoumustrun.ByGod'shelp,Iwillsetbeforeyouthefullprovisionthereismadefordeadsouls.Listentomealittlelonger,andIwilloncemoreshowyouwhatiswrittenintheScriptureoftruth.

Onethingisveryclear—wecannotworkthismightychangeourselves.Itisnotinus.Wehavenostrengthorpowertodoit.Wemaychangeoursins—butwecannotchangeourhearts.Wemaytakeupanewway—butnotanewnature.Wemaymakeconsiderablereformsandalterations.Wemaylayasidemanyoutwardbadhabits,andbegintodomanyoutwardduties.Butwecannotcreateanewprinciplewithinus.Wecannotbringsomethingoutofnothing.TheEthiopiancannotchangehisskin,northeleopardhisspots.Nomorecanweputlifeintoourownsouls.(Jerem.13:23.)

"Thereisnotonegooddutywhichthenaturalmancando.Ifitshouldbesaidtohim,Thinkbutonegoodthought,andforityoushallgotoheaven,hecouldnotthinkit.

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UntilGodraiseshimfromthesinkofsin,asHedidLazarusfromthegrave,hecannotdoanythingthatiswellpleasingtoGod.Hemaydotheworksofamoralman—buttodo the works of a man quickened and enlightened, is beyond his power."—Usher'sSermons.

"Nature can no more cast out nature, than Satan can cast out Satan."—ThomasWatson,1653.

"Nature cannot raise itself to this, anymore than aman can give natural being tohimself."—Leighton.

Anotherthingisequallyclear;noothermancandoitforus.Ministersmaypreachtous,andpraywithus—receiveusatthefontinbaptism,admitusattheLord'sTable,andgiveusthebreadandwine—buttheycannotbestowspirituallife.Theymaybringinregularityintheplaceofdisorder,andoutwarddecencyintheplaceofopensin.Buttheycannotgobelowthesurface.Theycannotreachourhearts.PaulmayplantandApolloswater—butGodalonecangivetheincrease.(1Cor.3:6.)Whothencanmakeadeadsoulalive?NoonecandoitbutGod.HeonlywhobreathedintoAdam'snostrilsthe breath of life, can ever make a dead sinner—a living Christian. He only whoformedtheworldoutofnothinginthedayofcreation,canmakemananewcreature.Heonlywhosaid,"Lettherebelight,andtherewaslight,"cancausespirituallighttoshineintoman'sheart.Heonlywhoformedmanoutofthedustandgavelifetohisbodycanevergive lifetohissoul.His is thespecialofficetodo itbyHisSpirit,andHisalsoisthepower.(Gen.1:2,3.)

"To create or bring something out of nothing, is beyond the power of the strongestcreature.It isabovethestrengthofallpeopleandangels tocreatethe leastbladeofgrass; God challenges this as His prerogative royal. (Isaiah 40:26.) Augustine saidtruly,Toconvertthelittleworld'man'ismorethantocreatethegreatworld."—GeorgeSwinnocke,1660.

The gloriousGospel contains provision for our spiritual, aswell as our eternal life.TheLordJesusisacompleteSavior.ThatmightylivingHeadhasnodeadmembers.Hispeoplearenotonlyjustifiedandpardoned—butquickenedtogetherwithHim,andmadepartakersofHisresurrection.ToHimtheSpiritjoinsthesinner,andraiseshimby thatunion fromdeath to life. InHim the sinner lives after hehas believed.Thespring of all his vitality is the union between Christ and his soul, which the Spiritbeginsandkeepsup.Christistheappointedfountainofallspirituallife,andtheHolySpirittheappointedagentwhoconveysthatlifetooursouls.

"Thendowebegintolive,whenwebegintohaveunionwithChristtheFountainofLife, by His Spirit communicated to us—from this time we are to reckon ourlife."—Flavel.

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"Christisanuniversalprincipleofalllife."—Sibbes.1635.

CometotheLordJesusChrist,ifyouwouldhavelife.Hewillnotcastyouout.Hehasgifts,evenfortherebellious.ThemomentthedeadmantouchedthebodyofElisha,herevivedandstooduponhisfeet.(2Kings13:21.)—ThemomentyoutouchtheLordJesuswiththehandoffaith,youarealiveuntoGod,aswellasforgivenalltrespasses.Come,andyoursoulshalllive.

IneverdespairofanyonebecomingadecidedChristian,whateverhemayhavebeenin days gone by. I know how great the change is from death to life. I know themountainsofdivisionthatseemtostandbetweensomeofusandheaven.Iknowthehardness, the prejudices, the desperate sinfulness of the natural heart. But Iremember that God the Father made this beautiful and well-ordered world out ofnothing.IrememberthevoiceoftheLordJesuscouldreachLazaruswhenfourdaysdead,andrecallhimevenfromthegrave.IremembertheamazingvictoriestheSpiritof God haswon in every nation under heaven. I remember all this, and feel that Inever need despair. Yes! those among uswho now seemmost utterly dead in sins,mayyetberaisedtoanewbeing,andwalkbeforeGodinnewnessoflife.

Whyshoulditnotbeso?TheHolySpiritisamercifulandlovingSpirit.Heturnsawayfromnomanbecauseofhisvileness.Hepassesbynoonebecausehissinsareblackand scarlet. There was nothing in the Corinthians that He should come down andquickenthem.Paulreportsofthemthattheywere"fornicators,idolaters,adulterers,homosexuals, thieves, covetous, drunkards, revilers, extortioners." "Such," he says,"weresomeofyou."YeteventhemtheSpiritmadealive."Youarewashed,"hewrites,"youaresanctified,youarejustified,inthenameoftheLordJesus,andbytheSpiritofourGod."(1Cor.6:9-11.)

Therewasnothing in theColossians, thatHe shouldvisit theirhearts.Paul tells usthat"theywalkedinsexual immorality, impurity, lust,evildesire,andcovetousness,whichisidolatry."YetthemalsotheSpiritquickened.Hemadethem"putofftheoldmanwithhisdeeds,andputonthenewmanwhichisrenewedinknowledgeaftertheimageofHimthatcreatedhim."(Coloss.3:5-10.)

There was nothing in MaryMagdalene that the Spirit should make her soul alive.Onceshehadbeen"possessedwithsevendevils."Therewasonceatime,ifreportbetrue, when shewas awoman proverbial for vileness and iniquity. Yet even her theSpiritmadeanewcreature,separatedherfromhersins,broughthertoChrist,madeher"lastatthecross,andfirstatthetomb."

Never,neverwilltheSpiritturnawayfromasoulbecauseofitscorruption.Heneverhasdoneso—Heneverwill.ItisHisglorythatHehaspurifiedthemindsofthemostimpure,andmadethemtemplesforHisownabode.Hemayyettaketheworstofus,

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andmakehimavesselofgrace.

Whyindeedshould itnotbeso?TheSpirit isanAlmightySpirit.Hecanchange thestonyheartintoaheartofflesh.Hecanbreakupanddestroythestrongestbadhabits,like string in the fire. He can make the most difficult things seem easy, and themightiestobjectionsmeltawaylikesnowinspring.Hecancutthebarsofbrass,andthrow thegatesofprejudicewide open.He can fill up every valley, andmake everyroughplacesmooth.Hehasdoneitoften,andHecandoitagain.

"SuchisthepoweroftheHolySpirittoregeneratepeople,andasitweretobringthemforthanew,sothattheyshallbenothinglikethepeopletheywerebefore."

TheSpiritcantakeaJew—thebitterestenemyofChristianity,thefiercestpersecutorof truebelievers—the strongest stickler for Pharisaical notions, themost prejudicedopposerofGospeldoctrine—and turn thatman intoan earnestpreacherof the veryfaithheoncedestroyed.Hehasdoneitalready.HediditwiththeApostlePaul.

The Spirit can take a Roman Catholic monk, brought up in the midst of Romishsuperstition—trained fromhis infancy tobelieve falsedoctrine,andobey thePope—steepedtotheeyesinerror,andmakethatmantheclearestupholderofjustificationbyfaiththeworldeversaw.Hehasdonesoalready.HediditwithMartinLuther.

TheSpiritcantakeanEnglishtinker,withoutlearning,patronage,ormoney—amanat one time notorious for nothing somuch as blasphemy and swearing—andmakethatmanwriteapiousbook,whichshallstandunrivaledandunequaled,initsway,byanybooksincethetimeoftheApostles.Hehasdonesoalready.HediditwithJohnBunyan,theauthorof"Pilgrim'sProgress."

TheSpiritcantakeasailordrenchedinworldlinessandsin—aprofligatecaptainofaslaveship,andmakethatmanamostsuccessfulministerof theGospel—awriterofgodly letters,whichare a storehouse of experimental religion—andof hymnswhichareknownandsungwhereverEnglishisspoken.Hehasdoneitalready.HediditwithJohnNewton.

AllthistheSpirithasdone,andmuchmore,ofwhichIcannotspeakparticularly.Andthearmof theSpirit isnotshortened.Hispower isnotdecayed.He is like theLordJesus,thesameyesterday,today,andforever."(Heb.13:8.)Heisstilldoingwonders,andwilldototheveryend.

Oncemore then, I say, Ineverdespair of anyman's soulbeingmade alive. Iwoulddespair—if it depended onman himself. Some seem so hardened, I would have nohope.Iwoulddespairifitdependedontheworkofministers.Alas,theverybestofusarepoor,weakcreatures!ButIcannotdespairwhenIrememberthatGodtheSpiritistheagentwhoconveys life tothesoul—forIknowandampersuadedthatwithHim

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nothingisimpossible.

Iwouldnotbesurprisedtohear,eveninthislife,thatthehardestmaninthelistofmyacquaintanceshasbecomesoftened,and theproudesthas takenhisplaceat thefeetofJesusasaweanedchild.

Ishallnotbesurprisedtomeetmanyontherighthand,inthedayofjudgment,whomIshallleave,whenIdie,travelinginthebroadwaytodestruction.Ishallbestartled,andsay,"What!youhere!"Ishallonlyremindthem,"Wasnotthismyword,whenIwasyetamongyou—NothingisimpossiblewithHimwhoquickensthedead."

DoesanyoneofusdesiretohelptheChurchofChrist?ThenlethimprayforagreatoutpouringoftheSpirit.OnlytheHolySpiritcangiveedgetosermons,andpoint toadvice,andpowertorebukes,andcancastdownthehighwallsofsinfulhearts.It isnot better preaching, and finer writing that is needed in this day—butmore of thepresenceoftheHolySpirit.

DoesanyonefeeltheslightestdrawingtowardsGod—thesmallestconcernabouthisimmortalsoul?Thenfleetothatopenfountainoflivingwaters,theLordJesusChrist,andyoushallreceivetheHolySpirit.(John7:39.)BeginatoncetoprayfortheHolySpirit. Think not that you are shut up and cut off from hope. The Holy Spirit ispromisedto"thosewhoaskHim."(Luke11:13.)HisverynameistheSpiritofpromiseandtheSpirit of life.GiveHimno restuntilHe comesdownandmakes youanewheart.Crymightilyunto theLord—sayuntoHim, "Blessme,evenmealso—quickenme,andmakemealive."

And now let me wind up all I have said with a few words of SPECIALAPPLICATION.IhaveshownwhatIbelievetobethetruthasitisinJesus.Letmetry,byGod'sblessing,tobringithometotheheartsandconsciencesofallintowhosehandsthisvolumemayfall.

1.First, letmeput thisquestion toeverysoulwhoreads thispaper, "Areyoudead,orareyoualive?"

Allowme,asanambassadorforChrist,topresstheinquiryoneveryconscience.Thereareonlytwowaystowalkin,thenarrowwayandthebroadway.Thereareonlytwocompanies in thedayof judgment, thoseon the righthand, and thoseon the left.ThereareonlytwoclassesofpeopleintheprofessingChurchofChrist,andtooneofthemyoumustbelong.Whereareyou?Whatareyou?Areyouamongthe living,oramongthedead?

I speak to you yourself, and to none else—not to your neighbor—but to you, not toAfricans orNewZealanders—but to you. I do not askwhether you are an angel, orwhetheryouhavethemindofDavidorPaul—butIdoaskwhetheryouhaveawell-

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foundedhopethatyouareanewcreatureinChristJesus,Idoaskwhetheryouhavereasontobelieveyouhaveputofftheoldmanandputonthenew—whetheryouareconsciousof ever having gone through a real spiritual change of heart—whether, inoneword,youaredeadoralive.

"Allhangsuponthishinge.Ifthisbenotdone,youareundone—undoneeternally.Allyour profession, civility, privileges, gifts, duties, are ciphers, and signify nothing,unlessregenerationbethefigureputbeforethem."—Swinnocke.1660.

"Believeme,whateveryouare,youshallneverbesavedforbeingaLordoraknight,agentlemanorarichman,alearnedmanorawell-spoken,eloquentman;noryet forbeing a Calvinist, or a Lutheran, an Arminian, an Anabaptist, a Presbyterian, anIndependent, or a Protestant, formally and merely as such; much less for being aPapist,orofanysuchgrosslydeludedsect—butasaregenerateChristianitisthatyoumustbesaved—oryoucanhavenohope."—RichardBaxter.1659.

(a)Thinknottoputmeoffbysaying,"youwereadmittedintotheChurchbybaptism,you receivedgraceand theSpirit in that sacrament, youarealive." It shallnotavailyou.Paulhimselfsaysofthebaptizedwidowwholivesinpleasure,"Sheisdeadwhileshe lives." (1 Tim. 5:6.) The Lord Jesus ChristHimself tells the chief officer of theChurchinSardis,"Youhaveanamethatyoulive,andaredead." (Rev.3:1.).Thelifeyou talk of is nothing if it cannot be seen. Show it to me, if I am to believe itsexistence.Graceislight,andlightwillalwaysbediscerned.Graceissalt,andsaltwillalwaysbe tasted.An indwellingof theSpiritwhichdoesnot show itself by outwardfruits,andagracewhichmen'seyescannotdiscover,arebothtobeviewedwiththeutmost suspicion. Believe me, if you have no other proof of spiritual life but yourbaptism,youareyetadeadsoul.

(b) Think not to tell me "It is a question that cannot be decided, and you call itpresumptuoustogiveanopinioninsuchamatter."Thisisavainrefuge,andafalsehumility.Spirituallifeisnosuchdimanddoubtfulthingasyouseemtofancy.TherearemarksandevidencesbywhichitspresencemaybediscernedbythosewhoknowtheBible."Weknow,"saysJohn,"thatwehavepassedfromdeathuntolife."(1John3:14.)Theexacttimeandseasonofthatpassagemayoftenbehiddenfromaman.Thefact and reality of it will seldom be entirely an uncertain thing. It was a true andbeautifulsayingofaScotchgirl,toWhitefield,whenaskedifherheartwaschanged,"Somethingwaschanged,sheknew,itmightbetheworld,itmightbeherownheart—but therewasagreatchangesomewhere,shewasquitesure, foreverythingseemeddifferenttowhatitoncedid."Oh,ceasetoevadetheinquiry!"Anointyoureyeswitheye-salvethatyoumaysee."(Rev.3:18.)Areyoudeadoralive?

(c)Thinknottoreply,"Youdonotknow—youallowitisamatterofimportance—youhopetoknowsometimebeforeyoudie—youmeantogiveyourmindtoitwhenyou

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have a convenient season—but at present you do not know." You do not know! Yetheaven or hell is wrapped up in this question. An eternity of happiness or miseryhingesuponyouranswer.Youdonot leaveyourworldlyaffairssounsettled.Youdonot manage your earthly business so loosely. You look far forward. You provideagainsteverypossiblecontingency.Youinsurelifeandproperty.Oh,whynotdealinthesamewaywithyourimmortalsoul?

Youdonotknow!Yetallaroundyouisuncertainty.Youareapoorfrailworm—yourbody fearfully andwonderfullymade—yourhealth liable to be put out of order in athousandways.Thenexttimethedaisiesbloom,itmaybeoveryourgrave!Allbeforeyouisdark.Youknownotwhatadaymightbringforth,muchlessayear.Oh!whynotbringyoursoul'sbusinesstoapointwithoutdelay?

Leteveryreaderof thispaperbegin thegreatbusinessofself-examination.RestnotuntilyouknowthelengthandbreadthofyourownstateinGod'ssight.Backwardnessin thismatter is an evil sign. It springs fromanuneasy conscience. It shows that amanthinksillofhisowncase.Hefeels,likeadishonesttradesman,thathisaccountswillnotbearinquiry.Hedreadsthelight.

Inspiritualthings,asineverythingelse,itisthehighestwisdomtomakesurework.Take nothing for granted. Do not measure your condition by that of others. BringeverythingtothemeasureofGod'sWord.Amistakeaboutyoursoulisamistakefor eternity! "Surely," says Leighton, "they that are not born again, shall one daywishtheyhadneverbeenborn."

Sitdownthisdayandthink.Communewithyourownheartandbestill.Go toyourownroomandconsider.Enterintoyourowncloset,oratanyratecontrivetobealonewithGod.Lookthequestionfairly,fully,honestlyintheface.Howdoesittouchyou?Areyouamongthelivingoramongthedead?

"Ifyourstatebegood,searchingintoitwillgiveyouthecomfortofit.Ifyourstatebebad,searchingintoitcannotmakeitworse;nay,itistheonlywaytomakeitbetter—forconversionbeginswithconviction."—Hopkins.1680.

2.Inthesecondplace,letmespeakinallaffectiontothosewhoareDEAD.

WhatshallIsaytoyou?WhatcanIsay?Whatwordsofmineare likelytohaveanyeffectonyourhearts?This Iwill say—Imournoveryour souls. Idomost sincerelymourn.Youmaybethoughtlessandunconcerned.Youmaycare little forwhatIamsaying.Youmayscarcely runyoureyeover thispaper, andafter reading it youmaydespiseitandreturntotheworld;butyoucannotpreventmyfeelingforyou,howeverlittleyoumayfeelforyourselves.

DoImournwhenIseeayoungmansappingthe foundationofhisbodilyhealthby

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indulginghis lustsandpassions,sowingbitterness forhimself inhisoldage?MuchmorethenwillImournoveryoursouls.

DoImournwhenIseepeoplesquanderingawaytheirinheritance,andwastingtheirpropertyontriflesandfollies?MuchmorethenwillImournoveryoursouls.

DoImournwhenIhearofonedrinkingslowpoisons,becausetheyarepleasant,asthe drunkard or the opium-eater—inch by inch digging his own grave?MuchmorethenwillImournoveryoursouls.

Imourntothinkofgoldenopportunitiesthrownaway—ofChristrejected,ofthebloodofatonementtrampledunderfoot—oftheSpiritresisted;theBibleneglected—heavendespised,andtheworldputintheplaceofGod.

Imourntothinkofthepresenthappinessyouaremissing,thepeaceandconsolationyouarethrustingfromyou,themiseryyouarelayingupinstoreforyourselves—andthebitterwakingupwhichisyettocome!

Yes!Imustmourn.Icannothelpit.Othersmaythinkitenoughtomournoverdeadbodies. Formypart, I think there is farmore cause tomourn over dead souls. Thechildren of this world find fault with us sometimes for being so serious and grave.Truly,whenIlookattheworld,Imarvelwecaneversmileatall.

ToeveryonewhoisdeadinsinsIsaythisday—Whywillyoudie?Arethewagesofsinsosweetandgood,thatyoucannotgivethemup?Istheworldsosatisfyingthatyoucannotforsakeit?IstheserviceofSatansopleasantthatyouandhearenevertobeparted?Isheavensopoorathingthatitisnotworthseeking?Isyoursoulofsolittleconsequence,thatitisnotworthastruggletohaveitsaved?Oh,turn!turnbeforeitbetoolate!Godisnotwillingthatyoushouldperish."AsIlive,"Hesays,"Ihavenopleasureinthedeathofhimwhodies."Jesuslovesyou,andgrievestoseeyourfolly.HeweptoverwickedJerusalem,saying,"Iwouldhavegatheredyou—butyouwouldnotbegathered."Surelyiflost,yourbloodwillbeuponyourownheads."Awake,andarise fromthedead,andChristshallgiveyou light." (Ezek.18"32;Matt.23:37;Eph.5:14.)

Believeme,believeme,truerepentanceisthatonestepthatnomaneverrepentedof.Thousandshavesaidattheirlatterend,theyhad"servedGodtoolittle."Butnopersoneversaid,asheleftthisworld,thathehadcaredforhissoultoomuch.Thewayoflifeis a narrow path—but the footsteps in it are all in one direction—not one child ofAdamhasevercomebackandsaiditwasadelusion.Thewayoftheworldisabroadway—butmillionsonmillionshaveforsakenit,andbornetheirtestimonythatitwasawayofsorrowanddisappointment.

3.Letme,inthethirdplace,speaktothosewhoareLIVING.

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Are you indeed alive untoGod? Can you saywith truth, "I was dead, and am aliveagain. Iwasblind—butnowI see"?Thenallow thewordof exhortation, and inclineyourheartsuntowisdom.

Areyoualive?Thenseethatyouproveitbyyouractions.Beaconsistentwitness.Letyourwords,andworks,andways,andtempersalltellthesamestory.Letnotyourlifebe a poor torpid life, like that of a tortoise or a sloth—let it rather be an energeticstirring life, like that of a deer or bird. Let your graces shine forth from all thewindowsofyourlife,thatthosewholivenearyoumayseethattheSpiritisabidinginyour hearts. Let your light not be a dim, flickering, uncertain flame; let it burnsteadily,liketheeternalfireonthealtar,andneverbecomelow.Letthesavorofyourreligion, like Mary's precious ointment, fill all the houses where you dwell. Be anepistleofChristsoclearlywritten,pennedinsuchlargeboldcharacters—thathewhorunsmay read it.LetyourChristianitybe sounmistakable, youreye so single, yourheartsowhole,yourwalksostraightforwardthatallwhoseeyoumayhavenodoubtwhoseyouare,andwhomyouserve.IfwearequickenedbytheSpirit,nooneoughttobeabletodoubtit.Ourconversationshoulddeclareplainlythatwe"seekacountry."(Heb 11:14.) It ought not to be necessary to tell people, as in the case of a badlypaintedpicture, "This is a Christian."We ought not to be so sluggish and still, thatpeopleshallbeobligedtocomecloseandlookhard,andsay,"Ishedeadoralive?"

Areyoualive?Thenseethatyouproveitbyyourgrowth.Letthegreatchangewithinbecome every year more evident. Let your light be an increasing light, not likeJoshua's sun in the valley of Ajalon, standing still—nor like Hezekiah's sun, goingbackwards—but ever shiningmore andmore to the very end of your days. Let theimageofyourLord,whereinyouarerenewed,growclearerandsharpereverymonth.Letitnotbeliketheimageandsuperscriptiononacoin,moreindistinctanddefacedthe longer it is used. Let it rather become more plain the older it is, and let thelikenessofyourKingstandoutmorefullyandsharply.

Ihavenoconfidenceinastanding-stillreligion.IdonotthinkaChristianwasmeanttobelikeananimal,togrowtoacertainage,andthenstopgrowing.Ibelieveratherhewasmeanttobelikeatree,andtoincreasemoreandmoreinstrengthandvigorallhisdays.RememberthewordsoftheApostlePeter,"Addtoyourfaithvirtue,andtovirtue knowledge, and to knowledge temperance, and to temperance brotherlykindness,andtobrotherlykindnesscharity."(2Peter1:5,6,7.)Thisisthewaytobeauseful Christian. People will believe you are in earnest when they see constantimprovement, and perhaps be drawn to go with you. This is one way to obtaincomfortableassurance."Soanentranceshallbeministereduntoyouabundantly."(2Peter1:11.)Oh,aseveryouwouldbeusefulandhappyinyourreligion,letyourmottobe,"Forward,forward!"toyourverylastday.

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"Peopleobserveactions,agreatdealmorethanwords."—Leighton.

IentreatallbelievingreaderstorememberthatIspeaktomyselfaswellastothem.IsaythespirituallifethereisinChristiansoughttobemoreevident.Ourlampsneedtrimming—theyoughtnot toburnsodim.Ourseparation fromtheworld shouldbemore distinct—our walk with God more decided. Too many of us are like Lot—lingerers;or likeReuben,Gad, andManasseh—borderers; or like the Jews inEzra'stime—somixedupwithstrangers, thatourspiritualpedigreecannotbemadeout. Itoughtnotsotobe.Letusbeupanddoing.IfweliveintheSpirit,letusalsowalkintheSpirit.Ifwereallyhavelife,letusmakeitknown.

Thestateoftheworlddemandsit.Thelatterdayshavefallenuponus.Thekingdomsoftheearthareshaking,falling,crashing,andcrumblingaway.(Isaiah24:1,etc.)Theglorious kingdom that will never be removed is drawing near. The KingHimself iscloseathand.Thechildrenofthisworldarelookingroundtoseewhatthesaintsaredoing. God, in His wonderful providences, is calling to us, "Who is on my side?Who?"—Surelyweoughttobe, likeAbraham,veryreadywithouranswer,"HereamI!"(Gen.22:1.)

"Ah!"youmaysay,"Theseareancientthings—thesearebravewords.Weknowitall.Butweareweak,wehavenopowerto thinkagoodthought,wecandonothing,wemustsitstill."Hearken,mybelievingreader.Whatisthecauseofyourweakness?Isitnotbecausethefountainoflifeislittleused?Isitnotbecauseyouarerestingonoldexperiences, and not daily gathering newmanna—daily drawing new strength fromChrist?Hehas left you thepromiseof theComforter. "Hegivesmoregrace"—graceupon grace to all who ask it. He came "that youmight have life, and have itmoreabundantly." "Open yourmouthswide,"He says this day, "and they shall be filled."(James4:6;John10:10;Ps.81:10.)

I say to all believerswho read thispaper, if youwant your spiritual life to bemorehealthy and vigorous, youmust just comemore boldly to the throne of grace. Youmust give up this hanging-back spirit—this hesitation about taking the Lord at Hisownword.Doubtlessyouarepoorsinners,andnothingatall.TheLordknowsit,andhasprovidedastoreofstrengthforyou.ButyoudonotdrawuponthestoreHehasprovided—you have not, because you ask not. The secret of your weakness is yourlittlefaith—andlittleprayer.Thefountainisunsealed—butyouonlysipafewdrops.Thebreadoflifeisbeforeyou—yetyouonlyeatafewcrumbs.Thetreasuryofheavenisopen—butyouonly takea fewpennies. "Oyouof little faith,whydoyoudoubt?"(Matt.14:31.)

Awake toknowyourprivileges—awake,andsleepno longer.Tellmenotof spiritualhunger, and thirst, and poverty—so long as the throne of grace is before you. Sayrather,thatyouareproud—andwillnotcometoitaspoorsinners.Sayrather,youare

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slothful—andwillnottakepainstogetmore.

Cast aside the grave-clothes of pride—which still hang around you. Throw off thatEgyptian garment of indolence—which ought not to have been brought through theRedSea.Awaywiththatunbelief,whichtiesandparalyzesyourtongue.YouarenotstraitenedinGod—butinyourselves."Comeboldlytothethroneofgrace,"wheretheFather is everwaiting to give, and Jesus ever sits byHim to intercede. (Heb. 4:16.)Comeboldly,foryoumay,allsinfulasyouare—ifyoucomeinthenameoftheGreatHigh Priest. Come boldly, and ask largely, and you shall have abundant answers—mercylikeariver,andgraceandstrengthlikeamightystream.Comeboldly,andyoushall have supplies exceeding all you can ask or think. "Hitherto you have askednothing.Askandreceive,thatyourjoymaybefull."(John16:24.)

Ifwereallyarealiveandnotdead,letusstrivesotocarryourselvesthatpeoplemayknowwhoseweare.Whilewelive,mayweliveuntotheLord.Whenwedie,maywedie the death of the righteous. And when the Lord Jesus comes,may we be foundready,and"notbeashamedbeforeHimatHiscoming."(1John2:28.)

But,afterall,arewealiveordead?Thatisthegreatquestion!

OurSins

"Makemetoknowmytransgressionandmysin."Job13:23

"Oursinstestifyagainstus."Isaiah59:12

"Cleansemefrommysin."Psalm51:2.

"ThebloodofJesusChristHisSoncleansesusfromallsin."1John1:7.

Thetwowordswhichheadthispageoughttostirupwithinusgreatsearchingsofheart.Theyconcerneverymanandwomanbornintotheworld.Toknow"oursins"isthefirstletterinthealphabetofsavingreligion.TounderstandourpositioninthesightofGodisonesteptowardsheaven.Thetruesecretofpeaceofconscienceistofeel"oursins"putaway.Ifwelovelifeweoughtnevertorestuntilwecangiveasatisfactoryanswertothequestion,"WHEREAREMYSINS?"

Iaskmyreadersthisdaytolookthissimplequestionintheface.Atimedrawsnearwhenthequestionmustbeanswered.Thehourcomeswhenallotherquestionswillseemlikeadropofwaterincomparisonwiththis.Weshallnotsay,"Whereismy

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money?"—or,"Wherearemylands?"—or,"Whereismyproperty?"Ouronlythoughtwillbe,"Mysins!mysins!—Wherearemysins?"

Iamgoingtoofferafewremarkswhichmayhelptothrowlightonthemightysubjectwhichisbeforeoureyes.Myheart'sdesireandprayertoGodisthis—thatthispapermaybeusefultothesoulsofallwhoreadthisvolume.Ientreatyoutogiveitafairreading.Readit—readit!Readittotheend!WhocantellbuttheHolySpiritmayemploythispaperforthesavingofyoursoul!

I.Myfirstremarkisthis.Youhavemanysins.

Isaythisboldly,andwithouttheleasthesitation.Iknownotwhoyouare,orhowthetimepastofyourlifehasbeenspent.ButIknow,fromtheWordofGod,thateverysonanddaughterofAdamisagreatsinnerinthesightofGod.Thereisnoexception.Sinisthecommondiseaseofthewholefamilyofmankindineveryquarteroftheglobe.Fromthekingonhisthrone—tothebeggarbytheroadside;fromthelandlordinhishall—tothelaborerinhiscottage;fromthefineladyinherdrawing-room—tothehumblestmaid-servantinthekitchen;fromtheclergymaninthepulpit—tothelittlechildintheSundayschool—weareallbynatureguilty,guilty,guiltyinthesightofGod!"Inmanythingsweoffendall.""Thereisnonerighteous—no,notone.""Allhavesinned.""Ifwesaythatwehavenosin,wedeceiveourselves,andthetruthisnotinus."(James3:2;Rom.3:10;5:12;1John1:8.)Itisuselesstodenyit.Wehaveallsinnedmanysins!

Doesanyonedoubtthetruthofthesewords?ThengoandexaminethelawofGod,asexpoundedbytheSonofGodHimself.ReadwithattentionthefifthchapterofMatthew'sGospel.SeehowthecommandmentsofGodapplytoourwordsaswellastoouractions,andtoourthoughtsandmotives,aswellastoourwords.Knowthat"theLordseesnotasmansees—manlooksattheoutwardappearance—buttheLordlooksattheheart."InHissightthevery"thoughtoffoolishnessissin."(1Sam.16:7;Prov.24:9.)

Andnowturntothehistoryofyourownlife,andtryitbythestandardofthisholylaw.Thinkofthedaysofyourchildhood,andallyourwaywardness,andselfishness,andeviltempers,andperversity,andbackwardnesstothatwhichisgood.Rememberthedaysofyouryouth,yourself-will,yourpride,yourworldlyinclinations,yourimpatienceofcontrol,yourlongingafterforbiddenthings.Calltomindyourconductsinceyoucametoman'sestate,andthemanydeparturesfromtherightway,ofwhichyouhavebeenguiltyeveryyear.Surely,inthefaceofyourlife'shistory,youwillnotstandupandsay,"Ihavenotsinned!"

Andthenturntothehistoryofyourownheart.Considerhowmanyevilthingshavegonethroughit,ofwhichtheworldknowsnothingatall.Rememberthe

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thousandsofsinfulimaginations,andcorruptideas,whichyourhearthasentertained,evenwhileyouroutwardconducthasbeencorrect,moral,andrespectable.Thinkofthevilethoughts,anddeceitfulintentions,andfalsemotives,andmalicious,envious,spitefulfeelings,whichhavewalkedupanddowninyourinwardman,whilethosenearesttoyouneverdreamedorguessedwhatwasgoingon.Surely,inthefaceofyourheart'shistory,youwillnotstandupandsay,"Ihavenotsinned!"

OncemoreIaskeveryreaderofthispaper,DoyoudoubtwhatIamsaying?Doyoudoubtwhetheryouhavesinnedmanysins?Thengoandexaminethetwenty-fifthchapterofMatthew'sGospel.Readtheconcludingportionofthatchapter,whichdescribestheproceedingsoftheJudgmentday.Notecarefullythegroundsonwhichthewicked,atthelefthand,arecondemnedtoeverlastingfire.Nomentionismadeofgreatopenactsofwickednesswhichtheyhavecommitted.Theyarenotchargedwithhavingmurdered,orstolen,orbornefalsewitness,orcommittedadultery.Theyarecondemnedforsinsofomission!Themerefactthattheyhaveleftundonethingswhichtheyoughttohavedone,issufficienttoruintheirsoulsforever.Inshort,aman'ssinsofomissionaloneareenoughtosinkhimintohell!

AndnowlookatyourselfbythelightofthiswonderfulpassageofScripture.Trytorememberthecountlessthingsyouhaveleftundone,whichyoumighthavedone,andhaveleftunsaid,thatyoumighthavesaid.Theactsofself-denyingkindness,whichyoumighthaveperformed—buthaveneglected,howmanytheyare!Thegoodyoumighthavedone,andthehappinessyoumighthavecaused,atverylittletroubletoyourself—howvastistheamountofit!Surely,inthefaceofourLord'steachingaboutsinsofomission,youwillnotstandupandsay,"Ihavenotsinned!"

OncemoreIask,DoyoudoubtthetruthofwhatIamsaying?Ithinkitquitepossiblethatyoudo.AsaministerofChristformorethanaquarterofacentury,Iknowsomethingofman'sexceedingblindnesstohisownnaturalstate.Listentomeoncemore,whileIplyyourconsciencewithanotherargument.Oh,thatGodmayopenyoureyes,andshowyouwhatyouare!

Sitdown,andtakepenandpaper,andcountupthesinsthatyouhaveprobablysinnedsinceyoufirstknewgoodfromevil.Sitdown,Isay,andmakeasum.Grantforamomentthattherehavebeenonanaverage,fifteenhoursineverytwenty-fourduringwhichyouhavebeenawake,andanactiveandaccountablebeing.Grantforamomentthatineachoneofthesefifteenhoursyouhavesinnedonlytwosins.Surelyyouwillnotsaythatthisisanunfairsupposition.RememberwemaysinagainstGodinthought,word,ordeed.Irepeat,itcannotbethoughtanextremethingtosupposethatineachwakinghourofyourlifeyouhave,inthought,orword,ordeed,sinnedtwosins.Andnowaddupthesinsofyourlife,andseetowhatsumtheywillamount.

Attherateoffifteenwakinghoursinaday,youhavesinnedeverydaythirtysins!At

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therateofsevendaysinaweek,youhavesinnedtwohundredandtensinseveryweek!Attherateoffourweeksineverymonth,youhavesinnedeighthundredandfortysinseverymonth!Attherateoftwelvemonthsineveryyear,youhavesinnedtenthousandandeightysinseveryyear!And,inshort,nottogofurtherwiththecalculation,everytenyearsofyoulifeyouhavesinned,atthelowestcomputation,morethanONEHUNDREDTHOUSANDSINS!

Iinviteyoutolookcalmlyatthissum.Idefyyoutodisproveitscorrectness.Iaskyou,onthecontrary,whetherIhavenotentirelyunderstatedyourcase?Iappealtoyou,asanhonestperson,whetheritbenottrue,thatmanyanhour,andmanyadayinyourlife,youhavesinnedincessantly?Iaskyouconfidently,whetherthesumwouldnotbefarmorecorrectifthetotalnumberofyoursinswasmultipliedten-fold?Oh,ceasefromyourself-righteousness!Layasidethisproudfacadeof"notbeingsoverybad,"inwhichyouaretryingtowrapyourselfup.Beboldenoughtoconfessthetruth.Listennottothatoldliar,thedevil.SurelyinthefaceofthatdamningsumwhichIhavejustcastup,youwillnotdaretodenythat"youhavemanysins."

Ileavethispartofmysubjecthere,andpasson.IsadlyfearthatmanyareaderwillrunhiseyeoverwhatIhavebeensaying,andremainunconvincedandunmoved.Ihavelearnedbymournfulexperiencethatthelastthingamanfindsoutandunderstands,ishisownstateinthesightofGod.WellsaystheHolySpirit,thatweareallbynature"blind,"and"deaf,"and"dumb,"and"asleep,"and"besideourselves,"and"dead!"Nothing,nothingwilleverconvincemanofhissinbutthepoweroftheHolySpirit.Showhimhell,andhewillnotfleefromit;showhimheaven,andhewillnotseekit;silencehimwithwarnings,andyethewillnotstir;prickhisconscience,andyethewillremainhard.Powerfromonhighmustcomedownanddothework.Toshowmanthesinnerwhichhereallyis—isthespecialworkoftheHolySpiritofGod.

Hethathasanyfeelingofhisownsinfulness,oughttothankGodforit.Thatverysenseofweakness,wickedness,andcorruption,whichperhapsmakesyouuncomfortable—isinrealityatokenforgood,andacauseforpraise.Thefirststeptowardsbeingreallygood—istofeelbad.Thefirstpreparationforheaven—istoknowthatwedeservenothingbuthell.Beforewecanbecountedrighteous—wemustknowourselvestobemiserablesinners.BeforewecanhaveinwardhappinessandpeacewithGod—wemustlearntobeashamedandconfoundedbecauseofourmanifoldtransgressions.Beforewecanrejoiceinawell-groundedhope—wemustbetaughttosay,"Unclean!Unclean!God,bemercifultomeasinner!"

Hewhoreallyloveshisownsoulmustbewareofcheckingandstiflingthisinwardfeelingofsinfulness.Ibeseechyou,bythemerciesofGod,donottrampleonit,donotcrushit,donottakeitbythethroatandrefusetogiveityourattention.Bewareoftakingtheadviceofworldlypeopleaboutit.Treatitnotasacaseoflowspirits,

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disorderedhealth,oranythingofthekind.Bewareoflisteningtothedevil'scounselaboutit.Donottrytodrownitindrinkandreveling;donottrytodriveoveritwithhorses,andhunting,andcarriages,andfieldsports;donottrytopurgeitawaybyacourseofcardparties,andballs,andconcerts.Oh,ifyouloveyoursoul,donot,donottreatthefirstsenseofsininthismiserablefashion!Donotcommitspiritualsuicide—donotmurderyoursoul!

GoratherandprayGodtoshowyouwhatthisfeelingofsinmeans.AskHimtosendtheHolySpirittoteachyouwhatyouare,andwhatHewouldhaveyoutodo.GoandreadyourBible,andseewhetherthereisnotjustcauseforyourbeinguncomfortable,andwhetherthissenseofbeing"wickedandbad"isnotjustwhatyouhavearighttoexpect.Whocantellbutitisaseedfromheaven,whichisonedaytobearfruitinParadiseinyourcompletesalvation?Whocantellbutitisasparkfromheaven,whichGodmeanstoblowupintoasteadyandshiningfire?Whocantellbutitisalittlestonefromabove,beforewhichthedevil'skingdominyourheartistogodown,andastonewhichshallprovethefirstfoundationofaglorioustempleoftheHolySpirit?Happyindeedisthatmanorwomanwhocangoalongwithmyfirstremark,andsay,"ITISTRUE—IHAVEMANYSINS."

II.Mysecondremarkisthis.Itisoftheutmostimportancetohaveoursinsremovedfromusandtakenaway.

Isaythisboldlyandconfidently.Iamawareofthemultitudeofthingswhicharethought"important"intheworld,andreceivethefirstandbestofmen'sattentions.ButIknowwellwhatIamsaying.IamboldtosaythatmyMaster'sbusinessdeservestobeplacedbeforeallotherbusiness;andIlearnfrommyMaster'sbookthatthereisnothingofsuchimportancetoamanastohavehissinsforgivenandcleansedaway.

LetusrememberthereisaGodaboveus.WeseeHimnotinthecity.Hurryandbustle,tradeandcommerce,appeartoswallowupmen'sminds.WeseeHimnotinthecountry.Farmingandlaboringgooninregularcourse,andseedtimeandharvestneverfail.ButallthistimethereisaneternalEyelookingdownfromheavenandseeingallthatpeopledo—aneyethatneverslumbers,andneversleeps!Yes!thereisnotonlyaQueen,andagovernment,andalandlord,andamaster,andanemployer,toberemembered.ThereisOnehigher,farhigherthanallthese,whoexpectsHisduestobepaid.ThatOneisthemosthighGod.

ThisGodisaGodofinfiniteholiness.Heisof"purereyesthantobeholdevil,andcannotlookoniniquity."(Habak.1:13.)Heseesdefectsandinfirmitieswhereweseenone.InHissightthevery"heavensarenotclean."(Job.15:15.)HeisaGodofinfiniteknowledge.Heknowseverythought,andword,andactionofeveryoneofAdam'schildren—therearenosecretshiddenfromHim.Allthatwethink,andsay,anddo,isnoteddownandrecordedinthebookofHisremembrance.HeisaGodofinfinite

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power.Hemadeallthingsatthebeginning.HeordersallthingsaccordingtoHiswill.HecastsdowntheKingsofthisworldinamoment.NonecanstandagainstHimwhenHeisangry.Aboveall,HeisaGodinwhosehandsareourlivesandallourconcerns.Hefirstgaveusbeing.Hehaskeptusalivesincewewereborn.HewillremoveuswhenHeseesfit,andreckonwithusaccordingtoourways.SuchistheGodwithwhomwehavetodo.

Letusthinkofthesethings.Surely,asJobsays,"whenyouconsideryouwillbeafraid."(Job23:15.)Surelyyouwillseeitisoftheutmostimportancetohaveyoursinscleansedaway.Surelyyouwillinquire,"HowdomattersstandbetweenmeandGod?"

Letusremember,furthermore,thatdeathisbeforeus!Wecannotlivealways.Theremustbeanend,oneday,ofallourschemingandplanning,andbuyingandselling,andworkingandtoiling.Avisitorwillcometoourhousewhowilltakenodenial.Thekingofterrorswilldemandadmission,andserveuswithnoticetoquit.Wherearetherulersandkingswhogovernedmillionsahundredyearsago?Wherearetherichpeoplewhomadefortunesandfoundedhouses?Wherearethelandlordswhoreceivedrentsandaddedfieldtofield?Wherearethelaborerswhoploughedthelandandreapedthegrain?Wherearetheclergymenwhoperformedservicesandpreachedsermons?Wherearethechildrenwhoplayedinthesunshineasiftheywouldneverbeold?Wherearetheoldpeoplewholeanedontheirsticksandgossipedabout"thedayswhentheywereyoung"?Thereisbutoneanswer.Theyarealldead,dead,dead!Strong,andbeautiful,andactiveastheyoncewere—theyarealldustandashesnow!Mightyandimportantastheyallthoughttheirbusiness—itallcametoanend.Andwearetravelinginthesameway!Afewmoreyearsandwealsoshallbelyinginourgraves!

Letusthinkofthesethings.Surelywhenyouconsideryourlatterendyouwillnotthinkthecleansingawayofsinalightmatter.Surelyyouwillseesomethinginthequestion,"Whereareyoursins?"Surelyyouwillconsider,"HowamIgoingtodie?"

Letusremember,furthermore,thatresurrectionandjudgmentawaitus!Allisnotoverwhenthelastbreathisdrawnandourbodiesbecomealumpofcoldclay.No—allisnotover!Therealitiesofexistencethenbegin.Theshadowswillhavepassedawayforever.Thetrumpetshallonedaysound,andcallusforthfromournarrowbed.Thegravesshallberentasunder,andtheirtenantsshallbesummonedforthtomeetGod.Theearsthatwouldnotobeythechurch-goingbellshallbeobligedtoobeyanothersummons;theproudwillsthatwouldnotsubmittolistentosermonsshallbecompelledtolistentothejudgmentofGod.Thegreatwhitethroneshallbeset—thebooksshallbeopened.Everyman,woman,andchild,shallbearraignedatthatgreatassize.Everyoneshallbejudgedaccordingtohisworks.Thesinsofeveryoneshallbeansweredfor.Andeveryoneshallreceivehiseternalportioneitherinheavenorin

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hell!

Letusthinkofthesethings.Surelyinremembranceofthatdayyoumustallowthatmysubjectdeservesattention.Surelyyoumustconfessthatitisoftheutmostimportancetohaveyoursinscleansedaway.Surelyyouwillconsider,"HowamIgoingtobejudged?"

Imustspeakoutwhatisuponmymind.Ifeelgreatsorrowandtroubleofheartaboutmanymenandwomenintheworld.Ifearformanywholiveinthisso-calledChristianland;IfearformanywhoprofessandcallthemselvesChristians;IfearformanywhogotochurchorchapeleverySundayandhaveadecentformofreligion;Ifearthattheydonotseetheimmenseimportanceofhavingtheirsinscleansedaway.Icanseeplainlythattherearemanyotherthingswhichtheythinkfarmoreimportant.Money,andland,andfarms,andhorses,andcarriages,anddogs,andfood,anddrink,andclothes,andhouses,andmarriages,andfamilies,andbusiness,andpleasure—these,thesearethesortofthingswhichmanyevidentlythinkthe"firstthings."Andasfortheforgivenessandcleansingawayoftheirsins,itisamatterwhichhasverylittleplaceintheirthoughts.

Seethemanofbusiness,asheporesoverhisledgerandaccountbooks,andrunshiseyeoverthecolumnsoffigures.Seethemanofpleasure,ashetearsoverthecountrywithhishorsesanddogs,orrushesafterexcitementattheraces,thetheater,thecardparty,ortheball.Seethepoorthoughtlesslaborer,ashecarriesoffhishard-earnedwagestotheale-house,andwastestheminruiningbothbodyandsoul.Seethemall,howthoroughlytheyareinearnest!Seethemall,howtheythrowtheirheartsintowhattheyaredoing!AndthenmarkthemallatchurchnextSunday—listless,careless,yawning,sleepy,andindifferent,asiftherewerenoGod,andnodevil,andnoChrist,andnoheaven,andnohell!Markhowevidentitisthattheyhavelefttheirheartsoutsidethechurch!MarkhowplainitisthattheyhavenorealinterestinChristianity!Andthensaywhetheritbenottruethatmanyknownothingoftheimportanceofhavingtheirsinscleansedaway.O,takeheedlestthisbethecasewithyou!

Doesanyreaderofthesepagesfeelanythingoftheimportanceofbeingforgiven?Then,inthenameofGod,Icalluponyoutoencouragethatfeelingmoreandmore.Thisisthepointtowhichwedesiretobringallpeople'ssouls.Wewantyoutounderstandthatreligiondoesnotconsistinprofessingcertainopinions,andperformingcertainoutwardduties,andgoingthroughcertainoutwardforms.ItconsistsinbeingreconciledtoGod,andenjoyingpeacewithHim.Itconsistsinhavingoursinscleansedaway,andknowingthattheyarecleansed.ItconsistsinbeingbroughtbackintofriendshipwiththeKingofkings,andlivinginthesunshineofthatfriendship.Listennottothosewhowouldfainpersuadeyouthatifyouonly"gotochurch"regularlyyouwillofcoursegotoheaven.Settleitratherinyourmind,thattruesavingreligion,suchastheBibleteaches,isanotherkindofthingaltogether.The

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veryfoundationofrealChristianityistoknowthatyouhavemanysins,anddeservehell—andtofeeltheimportanceofhavingthesesinscleansedaway,inorderthatyoumaygotoheaven.

Happy,saystheworld,aretheywhohaveplentyofpropertyandfinehouses!Happyaretheywhohavecarriages,andhorses,andservants,andlargebalancesattheirbankers,andgreattroopsoffriends!Happyaretheywhoareclothedinpurpleandfinelinen,andfaresumptuouslyeveryday,whohavenothingtodobuttospendtheirmoneyandenjoythemselves!Yetwhatistherealvalueofsuchhappiness?Itgivesnosolid,realsatisfaction,evenatthetimeofenjoyment.Itenduresbutforafewyears.Itonlylastsuntildeathcomesin,likethehandatBelshazzar'sfeast,andbreaksupall.Andthen,intoomanycases,thisso-calledhappinessisexchangedforETERNALMISERYINHELL.

"Blessed,"saystheWordofGod,"arethosewhoseiniquitiesareforgiven,andwhosesinsarecovered!BlessedisthemanuntowhomtheLordimputesnotiniquity!Blessedarethepoorinspirit,fortheirsisthekingdomofheaven!Blessedarethosewhomourn,fortheyshallbecomforted!Blessedarethosewhohungerandthirstafterrighteousness,fortheyshallbefilled!'(Psalm32:1,2;Matt.5:1-8)Theirblessednessshallnevercometoanend—theirhappinessisnosummer-driedfountain,justfailingwhenneedisthegreatest;theirfriendsarenosummerswallows,forsakingthem,likeAdonijah'sguests,thefirstmomentthatthetrumpetsounds.Theirsunshallnevergodown.Theirjoyshallbudintime,andbloomineternity.Theirs,inaword,istruehappiness,foritisforevermore.

DoyoubelievewhatIamsaying?ItisallScripturalandtrue.Youwillseeonedaywhosewordsshallstand—thewordsofmanortheWordofGod.Bewiseintime.Settleitinyourheartthisveryhour,thatthemostimportantthingthatmancanattendtoisthecleansingandforgivenessofhissins.

III.Mythirdremarkisthis.Wecannotcleanseawayourownsins.

Imakethisstatementboldlyandconfidently.Startlingasitsoundstothenaturalheart—IlayitdownasapieceofundeniableScripturaltruth.InspiteofallthePharisees,andRomanCatholics,andSocinians,andDeists,andidolatersofhumanreasonandhumanpower—Iunhesitatinglyrepeatmyassertion.

Man'ssinsaremanyandgreat.

Itisoftheutmostimportancethatthesesinsshouldbecleansedaway.

Man'sguiltinthesightofGod,isenormous.

Man'sdangerofhell,afterhedies,isimminentandtremendous.

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Andyetmancannotcleanseawayhisownsins!

Itiswritten,anditistrue,"Bythedeedsofthelawshallnofleshbejustified."(Rom.3:20.)

(a)Itwillnotcleanseawayyoursinstobesorryforthem.Youmaymournoveryourpastwickedness,andhumbleyourselfinsackclothandashes.Youmayshedfloodsoftears,andacknowledgeyourownguiltanddanger.Youmay—youmust—yououghttodothis.ButyouwillnotbysodoingwipeoutyourtransgressionsfromthebookofGod.SORROWCANNOTMAKEATONEMENTFORSIN.

Theconvictedcriminalinacourtofjusticeisoftensorryforhisoffences.Heseesthemiseryandruintheyhavebroughtuponhim.Hemournsoverhisfollyinnotlisteningtoadviceandingivingwaytotemptation.Butthejudgedoesnotlethimoffbecauseheissorry.Thedeedhasbeendone;thelawhasbeenbroken;thepenaltyhasbeenincurred.Thepunishmentmustbeinflicted,notwithstandingthecriminal'stears.ThisispreciselyyourpositioninthesightofGod.Yoursorrowisright,andgood,andproper.Butyoursorrowhasnopowerwhatevertocleanseawayyoursins.itneedssomethingmorethanpenitencetotaketheburdenoffyourheart.

(b)Itwillnotcleanseawayyoursinstomendyourlife.Youmayreformyourconduct,andturnoveranewleaf;youmaybreakoffmanyevilhabits,andtakeupmanygoodones;youmaybecome,inshort,analteredmaninallyouroutwardbehavior.Youmay,youmust,yououghttodoso.Withoutsuchchangenosouleverwassaved.Butyouwillnot,bysodoing,wipeawayoneparticleofyourguiltinGod'ssight.REFORMATIONMAKESNOATONEMENTFORSIN.

Thebankrupttradesman,whoowestenthousandpoundsandhasnottenshillingstopay,mayresolvetobecomeareformedcharacter.Afterwastinghiswholesubstanceinriotousliving,hemaybecomesteady,temperate,andrespectable.Itisallrightandproperthatheshouldbeso—butthiswillnotsatisfytheclaimsofthosetowhomheowesmoney.OncemoreIsay,thisispreciselyyourcasebynatureinthesightofGod.YouoweHimtenthousandtalents,andhave"nothingtopay."Today'samendmentsareallverywell—buttheydonotwipeawayyesterday'sdebts.Itrequiressomethingmorethatamendmentandreformationtogiveyoualightheartandtosetyourconsciencefree.

(c)Itwillnotcleanseawayyoursinstobecomediligentintheuseoftheformsandordinancesofreligion.YoumayalteryourhabitsaboutSunday,andattendservicesfrommorningtillnight;youmaytakepainstohearpreachingonweekdays,aswellasonSundays;youmayreceivetheLord'sSupperoneverypossibleoccasion,andgivealms,andkeepfasts.Itisallverywellasfarasitgoes.Itisarightandproperthingtoattendtoyourreligiousduties.Butallthemeansofgraceinthe

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worldwillneverdoyouanygoodsolongasyoutrustinthemassaviors.Theywillnotbindupthewoundsofyourheart,andgiveyouinwardpeace.FORMALITYCANNOTMAKEATONEMENTFORSIN.

Alanternonadarknightisaveryusefulthing.Itcanhelpthetravelertofindhiswayhome;itcanpreservehimfromlosinghispath,andkeephimfromfallingintodanger.Butthelanternitselfisnotthetraveler'sfireside.Themanwhoiscontenttositdownintheroadbythesideofhislantern,mustneverbesurprisedifhediesofcold.Ifyoutrytosatisfyyourconsciencewithaformalattendanceonmeansofgrace,youarenowiserthanthistraveler.ItneedssomethingmorethanreligiousformalitytotaketheburdenfromyourconscienceandtogiveyoupeacewithGod.

(d)Itwillnotcleanseawayyoursinstolooktoothersforhelp.ItisnotinthepowerofanychildofAdamtosaveanother'ssoul.Nobishop,nopriest,noordainedmanofanyChurchordenominationhaspowertoforgivesins.Nohumanabsolution,howeversolemnlyconferred,canpurgethatconsciencewhichisnotpurgedbyGod.ItiswelltoaskthecounseloftheministersoftheGospelwhentheconscienceisperplexed.Itistheirofficetohelpthelaboringandheavy-laden,andtoshowthemthewayofpeace.Butitisnotinthepowerofanyministertodeliveranymanfromhisguilt.Wecanonlyshowthepaththatmustbefollowed—wecanonlypointoutthedooratwhicheveryonemustknock.Itrequiresahandfarstrongerthanthatofman—totakethechainsoffconscience,andsettheprisonerfree.NOCHILDOFADAMCANTAKEAWAYHISBROTHER'SSINS.

Thebankruptwhoasksabankrupttosethimupinbusinessagainisonlylosingtime.Thepauperwhotravelsofftoaneighborpauper,andbegshimtohelphimoutofdifficulties,isonlytroublinghimselfinvain.Theprisonerdoesnotbeghisfellow-prisonertosethimfree;theshipwreckedsailordoesnotcallonhisshipwreckedcomradetoplacehimsafeashore.Helpinallthesecasesmustcomefromsomeotherquarter—reliefinallthesecasesmustbesoughtfromsomeotherhand.Itisjustthesameinthematterofcleansingawayyoursins.Solongasyouseekitfromman,whethermanordainedormannotordained,youseekitwhereitcannotbefound.Youmustgofurther—youmustlookhigher.Youmustturnelsewhereforcomfort.Itisnotinthepowerofanymanonearthorinheaventotaketheburdenofsinfromoffanotherman'ssoul."Nonecanbyanymeansredeemhisbrother,norgivetoGodaransomforhim."(Psalm49:7.)

ThousandsineveryagehavetriedtocleansethemselvesfromtheirsinsinthewaysIhavenowdescribed,andhavetriedinvain.Thousands,Idoubtnot,aretrying,atthisverymoment,andfindthemselves"nothingbettered—butratherworse."(Mark5:26.)Theyareclimbingupasteepprecipiceofice,toilinghard,andyetslippingbackwardsasfastastheyclimb.Theyarepouringwaterintoacaskfullofholes—laboringbusily,andyetnonearertheendoftheirworkthanwhentheybegan.Theyarerowingaboat

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againstarapidstream,plyingtheoardiligently,andyetinrealitylosinggroundeveryminute.Theyaretryingtobuildupawallofloosesand,wearingthemselvesoutwithfatigue,andyetseeingtheirworkrolldownonthemasfastastheythrowitup.Theyarestrivingtopumpdryasinkingship—thewatergainsonthemandtheywillsoonbedrowned.Suchistheexperience,ineverypartoftheworld,ofallwhothinktocleansethemselvesfromtheirsins.

Iwarneveryreaderofthispapertobewareofquackmedicinesinreligion.Bewareofsupposingthatpenitence,andreformation,andformality,andpriest-craft,canevergiveyoupeacewithGod.Theycannotdoit.Itisnotinthem.Themanwhosaystheycanmustbeignorantoftwothings.Hecannotknowthelengthandbreadthofhumansinfulness—hecannotunderstandtheheightanddepthoftheholinessofGod.Thereneverbreathedthemanorwomanonearthwhotriedtocleansehimselffromhissins,andinsodoingobtainedrelief.

Ifyouhavefoundoutthistruthbyexperience,bediligenttoimpartittoothers.Showthemasplainlyasyoucantheirguiltanddangerbynature.Tellthem,withnolessplainness,theimmenseimportanceofhavingtheirsinsforgivenandcleansedaway.Butthenwarnthemnottowastetimeinseekingtobecleansedinunlawfulfashions.Warnthemagainstthespeciousadviceof"Mr.Legality"andhiscompanions,sovividlydescribedin"Pilgrim'sProgress."Warnthemagainstfalseremediesandshammedicinesforthesoul.Sendthemtotheoldwicket-gate,describedinScripture,howeverhardandroughthewaymayseem.Tellthemitis"theoldpathandthegoodway,"andthat,whateverpeoplemaysay,itistheonlywaytoobtaincleansingofoursins.(Jer.6:16.)

IV.ThefourthremarkIhavetomakeisthis.OnlythebloodofJesusChristcancleanseawayalloursins.

Ienteronthispartofmypaperwithathankfulheart.IblessGodthataftersettingbeforemyreadersthedeadlynatureoftheirspiritualdisease,Iamabletosetbeforethemanalmightyremedy.ButIfeelitneedfultodwelluponthisremedyforafewminutes.Athingofsuchwondrousefficacyasthis"blood"oughttobeclearlyunderstood—thereshouldbenovaguenessormysteryinyourideasaboutit.Whenyouhearofthe"bloodofChrist"yououghtthoroughlytocomprehendwhattheexpressionmeans.

ThebloodofChrististhatlife-bloodwhichtheLordJesusshedwhenHediedforsinnersuponthecross.ItisthebloodwhichflowedsofreelyfromHisheadpiercedwiththorns,andHishandsandfeetpiercedwithnails,andHissidepiercedwithaspear—inthedaywhenHewascrucifiedandslain.Thequantityofthatbloodmayverylikelyhavebeensmall;theappearanceofthatbloodwasdoubtlesslikethatofourown—butneversincethedaywhenAdamwasfirstformedoutofthedustofthe

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ground,hasanybloodbeenshedofsuchdeepimportancetothewholefamilyofmankind.

Itwasbloodthathadbeenlongcovenantedandpromised.Inthedaywhensincameintotheworld,Godmercifullyengagedthat"theSeedofthewomanshouldbruisetheserpent'shead."(Gen.3:15.)Onebornofwomanwouldappearoneday,anddeliverthechildrenofAdamfromSatan'spower.ThatSeedofthewomanwasourLordJesusChrist.InthedaythatHesufferedonthecross,HetriumphedoverSatanandaccomplishedredemptionformankind.WhenJesusshedHislife-bloodonthecross,theheadoftheserpentwasbruised,andtheancientpromisewasfulfilled.

Itwasbloodthathadbeenlongtypifiedandprefigured.Everysacrificethatwasofferedupbypatriarchs,wasatestimonyoftheirfaithinagreatersacrificeyettocone.EverysheddingofthebloodoflambsandgoatsundertheMosaiclawwasmeanttoforeshadowthedyingofthetrueLambofGodforthesinoftheworld.WhenChristwascrucified,thesesacrificesandtypesreceivedtheirfullaccomplishment.Thetruesacrificeforsinwasatlengthoffered;therealatoningbloodwasatlengthshed.FromthatdaytheofferingsoftheMosaiclawwerenolongerneeded.Theirworkwasdone.Likeoldalmanacs,theymightbelaidasideforever.

ItwasbloodwhichwasofinfinitemeritandvalueinthesightofGod.Itwasnotthebloodofonewhowasnothingmorethanasingularlyholyman—butofonewhowasGod'sown"Fellow,"veryGodofveryGod.(Zech.13:7.)Itwasnotthebloodofonewhodiedinvoluntarily,asamartyrfortruth—butofonewhovoluntarilyundertooktobetheSubstituteandProxyformankind,tobeartheirsinsandcarrytheiriniquities.Itmadeatonementforman'stransgressions;itpaidman'senormousdebttoGod;itprovidedawayofrighteousreconciliationbetweensinfulmanandhisholyMaker;itmadearoadfromheaventoearth,bywhichGodcouldcomedowntoman,andshowmercy;itmadearoadfromearthtoheaven,bywhichmancoulddrawneartoGod,andyetnotfeelafraid.Withoutittherecouldhavebeennoremissionofsin.ThroughitGodcanbe"justandyetthejustifier"oftheungodly.Fromitafountainhasbeenformed,whereinsinnerscanwashandbecleantoalleternity.(Rom.3:26.)

ThiswondrousbloodofChrist,appliedtoyourconscience,cancleanseyoufromallsin.Itmattersnothingwhatyoursinsmayhavebeen,"Thoughtheybeasscarlettheymaybemadelikesnow.Thoughtheyberedlikecrimsontheycanbemadelikewool."(Isaiah1:18.)Fromsinsofyouthandsinsofage,fromsinsofignoranceandsinsofknowledge—fromsinsofopenprofligacyandsinsofsecretvice—fromsinsagainstlawandsinsagainstGospel—fromsinsofhead,andheart,andtongue,andthought,andimagination—fromsinsagainsteachandallofthetencommandments—fromallthesethebloodofChristcansetusfree.Tothisendwasitappointed;forthiscausewasitshed;forthispurposeitisstillafountainopentoallmankind.Thatthingwhichyou

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cannotdoforyourselfcanbedoneinamomentbythispreciousfountain.YOUCANHAVEALLYOURSINSCLEANSEDAWAY.

Inthisbloodallthedeadsaintshavebeencleansedhitherto,whoarenowwaitingtheresurrectionofthejust.FromAbel,thefirstofwhomweread,downtothelastwhohasfallenasleeptoday,theyhaveall"washedtheirrobes,andmadethemwhiteinthebloodoftheLamb."(Rev.7:14.)Notonehasenteredintorestbyhisownworksanddeservings;notonehasmakehimselfcleanbeforeGodbyhisowngoodnessandhisownstrength.Theyhaveall"overcomebythebloodoftheLamb."(Rev.12:11.)AndtheirtestimonyinParadiseisclearanddistinct,"Youwereslain,andhaveredeemedustoGodbyYourblood,outofeverykindred,andtongue,andpeople,andnation."(Rev.5:9.)

BythisbloodallthelivingsaintsofGodhavepeaceandhopenow.Byittheyhaveboldnesstoenterintotheholiest;byittheyarejustifiedandmadeneartoGod;byittheirconsciencesaredailypurgedandfilledwithholyconfidence.Aboutitallbelieversareagreed,howevermuchtheymaydifferonothermatters.EpiscopaliansandPresbyterians,BaptistsandMethodists—allareagreedthatthebloodofChrististhatonlythingthatcancleansethesoul.Allareagreedthatinourselvesweare"wretchedandmiserable,andpoor,andblind,andnaked."(Rev.3:17.)ButallareagreedthatinthebloodofChristthechiefofsinnerscanbemadeclean.

WouldyouliketoknowwhatweministersoftheGospelareordainedtodo?Wearenotsetapartfornootherendthantoreadservices,andadministersacraments,andmarrypeople,andburythedead.Wearenotmeanttodonothingmorethanshowyouthechurch,orourselves,orourparty.Wearesetfortheworkofshowingpeoplethe"bloodofChrist;"andexceptwearecontinuallyshowingit,wearenotrueministersoftheGospel.

Wouldyouliketoknowwhatisourheart'sdesireandprayerforthesoulstowhomweminister?Wewanttobringthemtothe"bloodofChrist."Wearenotcontenttoseeourchurchesfilled,andourordinanceswellattended,ourcongregationsnumerous,andourcauseoutwardlyflourishing.WewanttoseemenandwomencomingtothisgreatFountainforsinanduncleanness,andwashingtheirsoulsinitthattheymaybeclean.Hereonlyisrestfortheconscience.Hereonlyispeacefortheinwardman.Hereonlyisacureforspiritualdiseases.Hereonlyisthesecretofalightandhappyheart.Nodoubtwehavewithinusafountainofevilandcorruption.But,blessedbeGod,thereisanotherFountainofgreaterpowerstill—eventhepreciousbloodoftheLamb;and,washingdailyinthatotherFountain,wearecleanfromallsin.

V.Thefifth,andlastremarkIhavetomake,isthis.Faithisabsolutelynecessary,andtheonlythingnecessary,inordertogiveusasavinginterestinthe

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cleansingbloodofChrist.

Iaskthespecialattentionofallmyreaderstothispoint.Amistakehereisoftenruinoustoaman'ssoul.ItisagreatleakatthebottomofyourChristianityifyoudonotclearlyseethetruewayofunionbetweenChristandthesoul.Thatwayisfaith.

Church-membershipandreceptionofthesacramentsarenoproofthatyouarewashedinChrist'sblood.ThousandsattendaChristianplaceofworship,andreceivetheLord'sSupperfromthehandsofChristianministers,andyetshowplainlythattheyarenotcleansedfromtheirsins.Bewareofdespisingmeansofgrace,ifyouhaveanydesiretobesaved.Butnever,neverforgetthatChurch-membershipisnotfaith.

FaithistheonethingneedfulinordertogiveyouthebenefitofChrist'scleansingblood.Heiscalledan"atoningsacrificethroughfaithinHisblood.""HewhobelievesonHimhaseverlastinglife.""ByHimallwhobelievearejustifiedfromallthings.""BeingjustifiedbyfaithwehavepeacewithGod,throughourLordJesusChrist:"(Rom.3:25;John3:36;Acts13:39;Rom.5:1.)ThewisdomofthewholeworldwillneverprovideabetteranswertoananxiousinquirerthanthatwhichPaulgavetothePhilippianjailor,"BelieveontheLordJesusChrist,andyoushallbesaved."(Acts16:31.),"Areyouconvincedofsin?"saystheGospel."Doyoureallyseethatyouhavemanysins,andaredeservingofhell?Doyourenounceallhopeofcleansingyourselffromyoursinsbyyourownpower?ThenyouarejustthemanforwhomtheGospelprovidescomfort.BeholdtheatoningbloodofChrist!Onlytrustinit,andthisdayyoushallbefreelypardoned.Onlybelieve,andthisverymomentyoursinsshallbecleansedaway."Itisonly"Believeandlive."Itisonly"Believeandbeclean."Letthosewhowillcallsuchdoctrinerantandenthusiasm.Iamboldtocallitbyanothername.Itisthe"gloriousGospel"ofthegraceofGod.

Iaskyounottomisunderstandmymeaninginthusspeakingoffaith.Idonottellyouthatfaithistheonlymarkofthemanwhosesinsarecleansedaway.IdonotsaythatthefaithwhichgivesamananinterestinChrist'satoningblood,iseverfoundalone.Savingfaithisnobarren,solitarygrace.Itisalwaysaccompaniedbyrepentanceandpersonalholiness.ButthisIsayconfidently—thatinthematterofgivingthesoulaninterestinChrist,faithistheonlythingrequired.InthematterofjustificationbeforeGod,faith,Irepeatemphatically,standsentirelyalone.FaithisthehandthatlaysholdonChrist.Faithbegins,faithcarrieson,faithkeepsuptheclaimwhichthesinnermakesontheSavior.Byfaithwearejustified.ByfaithwebatheoursoulsinthegreatFountainforsin.Byfaithwegoonobtainingfreshsuppliesofpardoningmercyallthroughourjourney.Byfaithwelive,andbyfaithwestand.

Nothingwhateverbesidethisfaithisrequired,inordertoyourcompletejustificationandcleansingfromallsin.Letthissinkdeeplyintoyourmind.Whereisthemanthat

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desirestoenjoyrealcomfortfromtheGospel?Seek,Idoentreatyou,tohaveclearandsimpleviewsofthenatureofsavingfaith.Bewareofthosedark,andconfused,andmuddynotionsoffaith,bywhichsomanydistresstheirsouls.Dismissfromyourmindtheideathatfaithisamereactoftheintellect.Itisnotassenttodoctrinesorarticles;itisnotbeliefof"Paley'sEvidences"or"PearsonontheCreed."FaithissimplythegraspofacontriteheartontheoutstretchedhandofanAlmightySavior—thereposeofawearyheadonthebosomofanAlmightyFriend.Castawayallideaofwork,ormerit,ordoing,orperforming,orpaying,orgiving,orbuying,orlaboring,intheactofbelievingonChrist.Understandthatfaithisnotgiving—buttaking;notpaying—butreceiving;notbuying—butbeingenriched.Faithistheeyewhichlookstothebrazenserpent,andlookingobtainslifeandhealth;itisthemouthwhichdrinksdowntherevivingmedicine,anddrinkingreceivesstrengthandvigorforthewholebody;itisthehandofthedrowningmanwhichlaysholdontheropethrowntohim,andlayingholdenableshimtobedrawnupfromthedeepwatersafeandsound.This,andnothingmorethanthis,isthetrueideaofsavingfaith.This,andthisonly,isthefaiththatisrequiredtogiveyouasavinginterestinthebloodofChrist.Believeinthisway,andyoursinsareatoncecleansedaway!

NothingwhateverexceptthisfaithwillevergiveyouaninterestinChrist'satoningblood.YoumaygodailytoChrist'schurch;youmayoftenuseChrist'sname;youmaybowtheheadatthenameofJesus;youmayeatofthebreadandwinewhichChristcommandedtobereceived.Butallthistime,withoutfaith,youhaveneitherpartnorlotinChrist—withoutfaith,sofarasyouareconcerned,Christ'sbloodhasbeenshedinvain.

Idesiretoentermysolemnprotestagainstthemodernnotionswhichprevailonthissolemnsubject.Iprotestagainsttheopinionwhichmanynowmaintain,thatanyaresavedbyChristexceptingthosewhobelieve.Thereismuchvaguetalkinsomequartersaboutthe"FatherhoodofGod"andthe"loveofGod,"asifwewhoarecalled"Evangelical"deniedtheseglorioustruths.Wedonotdenythematall—weholdthemasstronglyasany.Wegiveplacetonomaninthismatter.ButweutterlydenythatGodisthespiritualFatherofanyexceptingthosewhoareHischildrenbyfaithinChristJesus.(Gal.3:26.)WeutterlydenythatpeoplehavearighttotakecomfortinGod'slove,excepttheybelieveonHimthroughwhomthatlovehasbeenmanifested,evenhisdearSon.TheatoningbloodoftheSonofGodisthegrandexhibitionofGod'slovetowardssinners.Thesinnerwhodesirestobesaved,musthavepersonaldealingswithHimwhoshedthatblood.Bypersonalfaithhemustwashinit;bypersonalfaithhemustdrinkofit;bypersonalfaithhemustputinhisownclaimtoallitsblessings.Withoutthisfaiththerecanbenosalvation.

Wouldyouknowonemainobjectwhichweministershaveinviewinourpreaching?Wepreachthatyoumaybelieve.Faithisthethingthatwedesiretoseeproducedin

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yoursouls;faithisthethingthat,onceproduced,wedesiretoseegrowing.WerejoicetoseeyoucomingregularlytoheartheGospel;werejoicetoseeanorderly,well-behavedcongregationofworshipers—butfaith,faith,faith—isthegrandresultwhichwelongtoseeinyoursouls.Withoutfaithwecannotfeelcomfortableaboutyou;withoutfaithyouareinimminentdangerofhell.AccordingtoyourfaithwillbethestrengthofyourChristianity;accordingtothedegreeofyourfaithwillbetheincreaseofyourpeaceandhope,andtheclosenessofyourwalkwithGod.Youwillnotwonderthatthereisnothingwecareforsomuchasyourbelieving.

Ihastentobringmyremarkstoaconclusion.Ihavetriedtoshowyoufivethings,andhaveendeavoredtosetthembeforeyouinplainlanguage.

(1)Ihavetoldyouthatyouhavemanysins.

(2)Ihavetoldyouthatitisoftheutmostimportancetohavethesesinscleansedaway.

(3)Ihavetoldyouthatyoucannotcleanseawayyourownsins.

(4)IhavetoldyouthatthebloodofChristcleansesfromallsin.

(5)Ihavetoldyouthatfaithonlyisneedful—butabsolutelyneedful,togiveyouanyinterestinChrist'sblood.

IhavetoldyouwhatIamfirmlypersuadedisGod'sowntruth—thetruthonwhichIdesiremyselftoliveanddie.IprayGodthattheHolySpiritmayapplythistruthwithmightypowertomanysouls.

Letmewindupallthissubjectbythreewordsofpartingapplication.Ouryearsarepassingquicklyaway.Thenightcomes,whennomancanwork.Yetalittletime,andourplaceinanotherworldwillbesettledtoalleternity.Afewmoreyears,andweshallbeeitherinheavenorinhell.Surelythisfactaloneoughttosetusthinking.

1.MyfirstwordofapplicationshallbeaQUESTION.Iaddressittoallintowhosehandsthispapermayfall,withoutdistinctionorexception.Itisaquestionwhichconcernsdeeplyeveryman,woman,andchildintheworld,whateverbetheirrankorstation.Itisthequestionwhichrisesnaturallyoutofoursubject,"Whereareyoursins?"

Remember,Idonotaskyouwhatyoucallyourselfinreligion.Idonotaskyouwhereyougo—orwhomyouhear—ortowhatpartyyoubelong—orwhatareyourpeculiaropinionsaboutChurchorDissent.Ileavesuchmattersalone.Iamwearytoseetheenormouswasteoftimeofwhichmultitudesareyearlyguiltyinrespecttothesematters.IamfortherealitiesandsubstanceofChristianity;Iwanttofixyour

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attentiononthethingswhichwilllookimportantinthehourofdeathandatthelastday.AndIsayboldly,thatoneofthefirstquestionswhichdemandyournotice,isthequestion,"Whereareyoursins?"

Iamnotaskingwhatyouintend,ormean,orhope,orresolvetoaimat,atsomefuturetime;Ileaveallthattochildrenandfools.Tomorrowisthedevil'sday—buttodayisGod's.Andhere,asinGod'ssight,thisveryday,whileyouarereadingmypaper,Iaskyoutofindananswertomyquestion,"Whereareyoursins?"

IaskyoutomarkwhatIamgoingtosay.Isayitcalmly,deliberately,advisedly,andwithconsideration.Itellyouthatatthismomentthereareonlytwoplacesinwhichyoursinscanbe,andIdefythewisdomoftheworldtofindoutathird.EitheryoursinsareUPONYOURSELF,unpardoned,unforgiven,uncleansed,unwashedaway—sinkingyoudailynearertohell!OrelseyoursinsareUPONCHRIST,takenaway,forgiven,pardoned,blottedoutandcleansedawaybyChrist'spreciousblood!Iamutterlyunabletoseeanythirdplaceinwhichaman'ssinscanpossiblybe.Iamutterlyunabletodiscoveranythirdalternative.Forgivenorunforgiven—pardonedornotpardoned;cleansedawayornotcleansed—this,accordingtotheBible,istheexactpositionofeveryone'ssins.Howisitwithyou?"Whereareyoursins?"

Ibeseechyoutolaythisquestiontoheart,andnevertorestuntilyoucangiveitananswer.Idoentreatyoutoexamineyourownstate—toproveyourownspiritualcondition,andtofindoutbowmattersstandbetweenyourselfandGod.Letthetimepastsufficefortriflingandindecisionaboutyoursoul.Giveitup—giveitup,giveitupforever.Letthetimepastsufficeforamereformal,aimless,meaningless,comfortlessreligion.Layitaside,layitaside—layitasideforever.Bereal;bethorough;beinearnest.Dealwithyoursoulasareasonablebeing;dealwithitasonewhofeelsthateternalinterestsareatstake;dealwithitasonewhohasmadeuphismind,andisdeterminedtoliveinsuspensenolonger.Oh,resolvethisverydaytofindananswertomyquestion"Whereareyoursins?"Aretheyonyourself—oraretheyonChrist?

2.MysecondwordofapplicationshallbeanINVITATION.Iaddressittoallwhofeelunabletogiveasatisfactoryanswertothequestionofmypaper.Iaddressittoallwhofeelsinful,andlost,andcondemned,andunfittodie.ItisthatinvitationwhichisthegloryoftheGospel.Isaytoyou,"CometoChrist,andbecleansedinHisbloodwithoutdelay."

Iknownotwhatyoumayhavebeeninyourpastlife—itmattersnothing.Youmayhavebrokeneverycommandmentunderheaven;youmayhavesinnedwithahighhandagainstlightandknowledge;youmayhavedespisedafather'swarningsandamother'stears;youmayhaverungreedilyintoeveryexcessofriot,andplungedintoeverykindofabominableprofligacy—youmayhaveturnedyourbackentirelyonGod,Hisday,Hishouse,Hisministers,Hisword.Isayagainitmattersnothing.Doyou

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feelyoursins?Areyousickofthem?Areyouashamedofthem?Areyouwearyofthem?ThencometoChristjustasyouare,andChrist'sbloodshallmakeyouclean.

Iseeyoulingering,anddoubting,andfancyingthenewstoogoodtobetrue.Ihearthedevilwhisperinginyourear,"Youaretoobad;youaretoowickedtobesaved."Ichargeyou,inGod'sname,nottogivewaytosuchdoubts.IremindyouthatSatanalwayswasaliar.Onetimehetoldyouitwas"toosoon"forreligion—andnowhetellsyouitis"toolate."Itellyouconfidently,thatJesusChristis"abletosavetotheuttermostallwhocometoGodbyHim."(Heb.7:25.)Itellyouconfidently,thatHehasreceived,cleansed,andpardonedthousandsasbadasyou.Heneverchanges.OnlycometoHim,andHisbloodshallcleanseyoufromallsin.

Icanwellfancythatyoufeelataloss,andknownotwhattodo.Icanwellbelievethatyoudonotseewhichwaytoturn,orwhatsteptotake,orinwhatmannertofollowoutmycounsel.IbidyougoandsaysototheLordJesusChrist!Ibidyouseeksomequietsolitaryplace,andpouroutyourheartbeforeHim.TellHimthatyouareapoormiserablesinner.TellHimthatyouknownothowtopray,orwhattosay,orwhattodo.ButtellHimthatyouhaveheardsomethingaboutHisbloodcleansingamanfromallsin,andentreatHimtothinkonyou,andcleanseyoursoul.Oh,takethisadvice,andwhocantellbutyoumaysayoneday,"ThebloodofChristdoesindeedcleanseamanfromallsin."

ForthelasttimeIoffermyinvitation.Istandinthelife-boatalongsidethewrecktowhichyouareclinging,andIentreatyoutocomein.Thedayisfarspent;thenightiscomingon;thecloudsaregathering;thewavesarerising.Yetalittletimeandtheoldwreckofthisworldwillgotopieces.Comeintothelife-boat;comeinandbesafe.CometothebloodofChrist;wash,andbeclean.ComewithallyoursinstoChrist,andcastthemonHim.Hewillbearthemaway;Hewillcleansethem;Hewillpardonthem.Onlybelieveandbesaved.

3.MylastwordshallbeanEXHORTATION.IaddressittoallwhohavebeentaughtbytheSpirittofeeltheirsins,andhavefledtothehopesetbeforethemintheGospel.Iaddressittoallwhohavediscoveredthegrandtruththattheyareguiltysinners,andhavewashedinthebloodofChristinordertohavetheirsinscleansedaway.Thatexhortationshallbeshortandsimple.Ibidthem"clingtoChrist."

ClingtoChrist,Isay—andneverforgetyourdebttoHim.Sinnersyouwere,whenyouwerefirstcalledbytheHolySpirit,andfledtoJesus.Sinnersyouhavebeen,evenatyourbest,fromthedayofyourconversion.Sinnersyouwillfindyourselvestoyourdyinghour,havingnothingtoboastofinyourselves.ThenclingtoChrist.ClingtoChrist,Isay—andmakeuseofHisatoningbloodeveryday.GotoHimeverymorningasyourmorningsacrifice,andconfessyourneedofHissalvation.GotoHimeverynight,afterthebustleoftheday,andpleadforfreshabsolution.Washinthegreat

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Fountaineveryevening,afterallthedefilementofcontactwiththeworld."Hewhoisfullywashed,needsonlytowashhisfeet."Buthisfeetheneedstowash.(John13:10.)

ClingtoChrist,Isay—andshowtheworldhowyouloveHim.ShowitbyobediencetoHiscommandments.ShowitbyconformitytoHisimage.ShowitbyfollowingHisexample.MakeyourMaster'scauselovelyandbeautifulbeforepeople,byyourownholinessoftemperandconversation.Letalltheworldseethathewhoismuchforgivenisthemanwholovesmuch,andthathewholovesmostisthemanwhodoesmostforChrist.(Luke7:47.)

ClingtoChrist,Isay—andhavehighthoughtsoftheatonementmadebyHisblooduponthecross.ThinkhighlyofHisincarnationandHisexample—thinkhighlyofHismiraclesandHiswords—thinkhighlyofHisresurrection,andintercession,andcomingagain.ButthinkhighestofallofChrist'ssacrifice,andtheatoningsacrificemadebyHisdeath.ContendearnestlyfortheoldfaithconcerningHisatonement.SeeintheolddoctrinethatHediedasaSubstituteforsinners,theonlysolutionofathousandpassagesintheOldTestament,andahundredpassagesintheNew.Never,neverbeashamedtoletpeopleknowthatyouderiveallyourcomfortfromtheatoningbloodofChrist,andfromHissubstitutionforyouonthecross.

ClingtoChrist,Isaylastly—andmakemuchoftheoldfoundationtruthsconcerningsalvationbyHisblood.Thesearetheoldfriendstowhichoursoulswillturnatlastinthehourofourdeparture.Thesearetheancientdoctrinesonwhichweshallleanbackourachingheads,whenlifeisebbingawayanddeathisinsight.WeshallnotaskourselvesthenwhetherwehavebeenEpiscopaliansorPresbyterians,ChurchmenorDissenters.Weshallnotfindcomforttheninnew-fanglednotionsandhumaninventions—inbaptismandchurch-membership,insectsandparties—inceremoniesandforms.NothingwilldousgoodthenbutthebloodofChrist.NothingwillsupportusthenbutthewitnessoftheSpirit,thatinthebloodofJesuswehavewashed,andbythatbloodhavebeenmadeclean.

Icommendthesethingstotheseriousattentionofallwhoreadthisvolume.Ifyouneverknewthesethingsbefore,mayyousoonbecomeacquaintedwiththem!Ifyouhaveknownthemintimepast,mayyouknowthembetterfortimetocome!Wecanneverknowtoowelltherightanswertothemightyquestion,"Whereareyoursins?"

Forgiveness

"Yoursinsareforgiven!"1John2:12

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ThereisaclauseneartheendoftheApostle'sCreed,which,I fear, isoftenrepeatedwithoutthoughtorconsideration.Irefertotheclausewhichcontainsthesewords,"Ibelieve in theForgivenessofsins."Thousands, Iamafraid,never reflectwhat thosewordsmean. Ipropose toexamine thesubjectof themin the followingpaper,andIinvitetheattentionofallwhocarefortheirsouls,andwanttobesaved.Dowebelieveinthe"Resurrectionofourbodies"?Thenletusseetoitthatweknowsomethingbyexperienceofthe"Forgivenessofoursins."

I.Letmeshow,firstofall,ourneedofforgiveness.

All people need forgiveness, because all people are sinners. He that does not knowthis,knowsnothinginreligion.ItistheveryABC'sofChristianity,thatamanshouldknowhisrightplaceinthesightofGod,andunderstandhisdeserts.

Weareallgreatsinners."Thereisnonerighteous,no,notone.""Allhavesinned,andcomeshortofthegloryofGod."(Rom.3:10,23.)Sinnerswewereborn,andsinnerswehavebeenallourlives.Wetaketosinnaturallyfromtheveryfirst.Nochildeverneedsschoolingandeducation to teach it todowrong.Nodevil, orbad companion,everleadsusintosuchwickednessasourownhearts.And"thewagesofsinisdeath."(Rom.6:23.)Wemusteitherbeforgiven,orlosteternally.

WeareallguiltysinnersinthesightofGod.WehavebrokenHisholylaw.WehavetransgressedHisprecepts.WehavenotdoneHiswill.Thereisnotacommandmentinall thetenwhichdoesnotcondemnus. Ifwehavenotbroken it indeedwehave inword;ifwehavenotbrokenitinword,wehaveinthoughtandimagination—andthatcontinually.TriedbythestandardofthefifthchapterofMatthew,thereisnotoneofusthatwouldbeacquitted.Alltheworldis"guiltybeforeGod."And"asitisappointedunto people once to die, and after this comes the judgment."Wemust either beforgiven,orperisheverlastingly.(Rom.3:19;Heb.9:27.)

WhenIwalkthroughthecrowdedstreetsofLondon,IseehundredsandthousandsofwhomIknownothingbeyondtheiroutwardappearance.Iseesomebentonpleasure,andsomeonbusiness—somewholookrich,andsomewholookpoor—somerollingintheir carriages, somehurryingalongon foot.Eachhashisownobject in view.Eachhas his own aims and ends, all alike hidden fromme. But one thing I know for acertainty,asIlookuponthem—theyareallsinners.Thereisnotasoulamongthemall but "deserves God's wrath and condemnation." There breathes not the man orwoman in that crowd but must die forgiven, or else rise again to be condemnedforeveratthelastday.

WhenI lookthroughthe lengthandbreadthofGreatBritainImustmakethesamereport. From the Queen on the throne to the pauper in the workhouse—we are allsinners.WeEnglishmenhavegotanameamong theempiresof theearth.Wesend

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ourshipsintoeverysea,andourmerchandiseintoeverytownintheworld.WehavebridgedtheAtlanticwithoursteamers.Wehavemadenightinourcitieslikeday,withgas lighting.We have changed England into one great county by railways. We canexchange thought between London and Edinburgh in a few seconds by the electrictelegraph.Butwithallourartsandsciences—withallourmachineryandinventions—with all our armies and navies—with all our lawyers and statesmen, we have notaltered the nature of our people. We are still in the eye of God an island full ofsinners.

WhenIturntothemapoftheworldImustsaythesamething.Itmattersnotwhatquarter I examine—I find men's hearts are everywhere the same, and everywherewicked.SinisthefamilydiseaseofallthechildrenofAdam.Neverhas therebeenacorneroftheearthdiscoveredwheresinandthedevildonotreign.Wideasthedifferenceisbetweenthenationsof theearth, they leavealwaysbeenfoundtohaveonegreatmark incommon.EuropeandAsia,AfricaandAmerica,IcelandandIndia,ParisandPeking—allalikehavethemarkofsin.TheeyeoftheLordlooksdownon this globe of ours, as it rolls round the sun, and sees it coveredwithcorruptionandwickedness!WhatHeseesinthemoonandstars, inJupiterandSaturn,Icannottell—butontheearthIknowHeseessin.(Psalm14:2,3.)

I havenodoubt such language as this sounds extravagant to some.You think I amgoingmuch too far. Butmarkwellwhat I am about to say next, and then considerwhetherIhavenotusedthewordsofsobernessandtruth.

What then, I ask, is the life of the bestChristianamongusall?What is it but onegreatcareerofshortcomings?WhatisitbutadailyactingoutthewordsofourPrayer-book,"leavingundonethingsweought todo,anddoing things thatweoughtnot todo"?Our faith,how feeble!Our love,howcold!Ourworks,how few!Our zeal,howsmall! Our patience, how short-breathed! Our humility, how thread-bare! Our self-denial, howdwarfish!Our knowledge, howdim!Our spirituality, how shallow!Ourprayers,how formal!Ourdesires formoregrace,how faint!Neverdid thewisest ofpeoplespeakmorewiselythanwhenhesaid,"Thereisnotajustmanuponearth,thatdoesgood,andsinsnot."(Eccles.7:20.)"Inmanythings,"saystheapostleJames,"weoffendall."(James3:2.)AndwhatisthebestactionthatiseverdonebytheverybestofChristians?Whatisitafterallbutanimperfectwork,whentriedonitsownmerits?Itis,asLuthersays,nobetterthan"asplendidsin."Itisalwaysmoreorlessdefective.It is either wrong in its motive or incomplete in its performance—not done fromperfect principles, or not executed in a perfect way. The eyes of peoplemay see nofaultinit—butweighedinthebalancesofGoditwouldbefoundlacking,andviewedin the lightofheaven itwouldprove fullof flaws. It is like thedropofwaterwhichseemscleartothenakedeye—but,placedunderamicroscope,isdiscoveredtobefullof impurity.David's account is literally true, "There isnonewhodoes good,no,notone."(Psalm14:3.)

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AndthenwhatistheLordGod,whoseeyesareonallourways,andbeforewhomwehaveonedaytogiveaccount?"Holy,holy,holy,"istheremarkableexpressionappliedtoHimbythosewhoarenearesttoHim.(Isaiah6:3;Rev.4:8.)ItsoundsasifnoonewordcouldexpresstheintensityofHisholiness.OneofHisprophetssays,"Heisofpurereyesthantobeholdevil,andcannotlookoniniquity."(Habak.1:13.)Wethinktheangelsexaltedbeings,and faraboveourselves;butweare told inScripture, "HechargedHisangelswithfolly."(Job4:18.)Weadmirethemoonandstarsasgloriousandsplendidbodies;butwe read, "Beholdeven the stars arenotpure inHis sight."(Job25:5.)Wetalkoftheheavensasthenoblestandpurestpartofcreation;butevenofthemitiswritten,"TheheavensarenotcleaninHissight."(Job15:15.)WhatthenisanyoneofusbutamiserablesinnerinthesightofsuchaGodasthis?

Surelyweoughtalltoceasefromproudthoughtsaboutourselves.Weoughttolayourhandsuponourmouths,andsaywithAbraham,"Iamdustandashes;"andwithJob,"Iamvile;"andwithIsaiah,"Weareallasanuncleanthing;"andwithJohn,"Ifwesaythatwehavenosinwedeceiveourselves,andthetruthisnotinus."(Gen.18:27;Job40:4;Isaiah64:6;1John1:8.)WhereisthemanorwomaninthewholecatalogueoftheBookofLife, thatwilleverbeabletosaymorethanthis,"Iobtainedmercy"?Whatisthegloriouscompanyoftheapostles,thegoodlyfellowshipof theprophets,thenoblearmyofmartyrs—whataretheyallbutpardonedsinners?Surelythereisbutone conclusion to be arrived at—Weare all great sinners, and we all need agreatforgiveness.

SeenowwhatjustcauseIhavetosaythattoknowourneedofforgivenessisthefirstthingintruereligion.Sinisaburden,andmustbetakenoff.Sinisadefilement,andmust be cleansed away. Sin is amighty debt, andmust be paid. Sin is amountainstandingbetweenusandheaven,andmustberemoved.Happyisthatmother'schildamongusthatfeelsallthis!Thefirststeptowardsheavenistoseeclearlythatwe deserve hell.There are but two alternatives before us—we must either beforgiven,orbemiserableforever.

SeetoohowlittlemanypeopleknowofthemaindesignofChristianity,thoughtheyliveinaChristianland.Theyfancytheyaretogotochurchtolearntheirduty,andbemoral. They forget that the heathenphilosophers could have told them asmuch asthis.TheyforgetthatsuchpeopleasPlatoandSenecagaveinstructionswhichoughttoput to shame thechurch-going liar, thedrunkard,and the thief.Theyhaveyet tolearnthattheleadingmarkofChristianityistheremedyitprovidesforsin.ThisisthegloryandexcellenceoftheGospel.Itmeetsmanashereallyis.Ittakeshimasitfindshim.Itgoesdowntotheleveltowhichsinhasbroughthim,andofferstoraisehimup.Ittellshimofaremedyequaltohisdisease—agreatremedyforagreatdisease—agreatforgivenessforgreatsinners.

Iaskeveryreadertoconsiderthesethingswell,ifheneverconsideredthembefore.It

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isno lightmatterwhetheryouknowyoursoul'snecessitiesornot—it isamatteroflife and death. Try, I beseech you, to become acquainted with your own heart. SitdownandthinkquietlywhatyouareinthesightofGod.Bringtogetherthethoughts,andwords,andactionsofanydayinyourlife,andmeasurethembythemeasureofGod'sWord.Judgeyourselfhonestly,thatyoumaynotbecondemnedatthelastday.Oh,thatyoumightfindoutwhatyoureallyare!Oh,thatyoumightlearntoprayJob'sprayer, "Makeme toknowmy transgressionandmy sin." (Job 13:23.)Oh, that youmightseethisgreattruth—thatuntilyouareforgiven,allyourchurch-goinghasdonenothingforyouatall!

II.Letmepointout,inthesecondplace—thewayofforgiveness.

Iaskparticularattentiontothispoint,fornonecanbemoreimportant.Grantingforamomentthatyouwantpardonandforgiveness,whatoughtyoutodo?Wherewillyougo? Which way will you turn? Everything hinges on the answer you give to thisquestion.

Willyouturntoministersandputyourtrustinthem?Theycannotgiveyoupardon—theycanonlytellyouwhereitistobefound.Theycansetbeforeyouthebreadoflife;butyouyourselfmusteat it.Theycanshowyouthepathofpeace;butyouyourselfmust walk in it. The Jewish priest had no power to cleanse the leper—but only todeclare him cleansed. The Christianminister has no power to forgive sins—he canonlydeclareandpronouncewhotheyarethatareforgiven.

Willyouturntosacramentsandordinances,andtrustinthem?Theycannotsupplyyouwith forgiveness,howeverdiligentlyyoumayuse them.By sacraments "faith isconfirmedandgraceincreased,"inallwhorightlyusethem.(SeeArticle27.)Buttheycannot justify the sinner. They cannot put away transgression. You may go to theLord'stableeverySundayinyourlife—butunlessyoulookfarbeyondthesigntothething signified, you will after all die in your sins. You may attend a daily serviceregularly—but if you think to establish a righteousness of your own by it, in theslightestdegree,youareonlygettingfurtherawayfromGodeveryday.

Willyou trust inyourownworksandendeavors,yourvirtuesandyourgooddeeds,your prayers and your alms? Theywill never buy for you an entrance into heaven.TheywillneverpayyourdebttoGod.Theyareall imperfectinthemselves,andonlyincreaseyourguilt.Thereisnomeritorworthinessinthemattheverybest.TheLordJesus Christ says expressly, "When you have done all those things which arecommandedyou,say,Weareunprofitableservants."(Luke17:10.)

Will you trust in your own repentance andamendment?You are very sorry for thepast.Youhopetodobetterfortimetocome.YouhopeGodwillbemerciful.Alas, ifyouleanonthis,youhavenothingbeneathyoubutabrokenreed!Thejudgedoesnot

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pardonthethiefbecauseheissorryforwhathedid.Today'ssorrowwillnotwipeoffthe score of yesterday's sins. It is not an ocean of tears that could ever cleanse anuneasyconscienceandgiveitpeace.

Wherethenmustamangoforpardon?Whereisforgivenesstobefound?Thereisawaybothsureandplain,andintothatwayIdesiretoguideeveryinquirer'sfeet.

Thatwayissimplytotrust intheLordJesusChristasyourSavior.It is tocastyoursoul, with all its sins, unreservedly on Christ—to cease completely from anydependenceonyourownworksordoings,eitherinwholeorinpart—andtorestonnootherworkbutChrist'swork, no other righteousness butChrist's righteousness, noothermeritbutChrist'smerit,asyourgroundofhope.Takethiscourseandyouareapardonedsoul."ToChrist,"saysPeter,"givealltheprophetswitness,thatthroughHisnamewhoeverbelievesinHimshallreceiveremissionofsins."(Acts10:43.)"ThroughthisMan,"saysPaulatAntioch,"ispreacheduntoyoutheforgivenessofsins,andbyHimallwhobelievearejustifiedfromallthings."(Acts13:38.)"InHim,"writesPaulto the Colossians, "we have redemption throughHis blood, even the forgiveness ofsins."(Col.1:14.)

TheLordJesusChrist, in great love and compassion,hasmade a full and completesatisfactionforsin,bysufferingdeathinourplaceuponthecross.ThereHeofferedHimselfasasacrificeforus,andallowedthewrathofGod,whichwedeserved,tofallonHisownhead.Foroursins,asourSubstitute,HegaveHimself,suffered,anddied—the just for theunjust, the innocent for theguilty—thatHemightdeliverus fromthe curseof abroken law, andprovide a completepardon for allwhoarewilling toreceiveit.Andbysodoing,asIsaiahsays—Hehasborneoursins;asJohntheBaptistsays—Hehastakenawaysin;asPaulsays—Hehaspurgedoursins,andputawaysin;andasDaniel says—Hehasmadean endof sin, and finished transgression. (Isaiah53:11;John1:29;Heb.1:3;Heb.9:26;Dan.9:24)

And now the Lord Jesus Christ is sealed and appointed by God the Father to be aPrinceandaSavior,togiveremissionofsinstoallwhowillhaveit.Thekeysofdeathand hell are put inHis hand. The government of the gate of heaven is laid onHisshoulder.HeHimself is thedoor, andbyHimall that enter in shall be saved. (Acts5:31;Rev.1:18;John10:9.)

Christ,inoneword,haspurchasedafullforgiveness,ifweareonlywillingtoreceiveit.Hehasdoneall,paidall,sufferedallthatwasneedfultoreconcileustoGod.Hehasprovidedagarmentofrighteousnesstoclotheus.Hehasopenedafountainoflivingwaters tocleanseus.Hehas removedeverybarrierbetweenusandGod theFather,takeneveryobstacleoutoftheway,andmadearoadbywhichthevilestmayreturn.Allthingsarenowready,andthesinnerhasonlytobelieveandbesaved,toeatandbesatisfied,toaskandreceive;towashandbeclean.

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And faith, simple faith, is the only thing required, in order that you and I may beforgiven.ThatwewillcomebyfaithtoJesusassinnerswithoursins—trustinHim—restonHim—leanonHim—confideinHim—commitoursoulstoHim—andforsakingallotherhope,cleaveonlytoHim—thisisallandeverythingthatGodasksfor.Letaman only do this, and he shall be saved. His iniquities shall be found completelypardoned,andhistransgressionsentirelytakenaway.Everymanandwomanthatsotrusts iswholly forgiven, and reckonedperfectly righteous.His sins are clean gone,andhissoulisjustifiedinGod'ssight,howeverbadandguiltyhemayhavebeen!

Faith is the only thing required, not knowledge. A man may be a poor unlearnedsinner,andknow littleofbooks.But ifheseesenough to find the footof thecross,and trust inJesus forpardon, Iwill engage, fromtheauthorityof theBible, thatheshallnotmissheaven.ToknowChrististhecorner-stoneofallsavingknowledge.

Faith,Isay,andnotconversion.AmanmayhavebeenwalkinginthebroadwayuptotheveryhourhefirsthearstheGospel.But if inthathearingheisawakenedtofeelhis danger, and wants to be saved, let him come to Christ at once, and wait fornothing.Thatverycomingisthebeginningofconversion.

Faith, I repeat,andnotholiness.Amanmay feelall full of sin, andunworthy tobesaved.Butlethimnottarryoutsidethearkuntilheisbetter.LethimcometoChristwithoutdelay,justasheis.Afterwardsheshallbeholy.

I call upon every reader of these pages to let nothing move him from this strongground—thatfaithinChrististheonlythingneededforourjustification.Standfirmhere, if you value your soul's peace. I seemanywalking in darkness andhavingnolight,fromconfusednotionsastowhatfaithis.Theyhearthatsavingfaithwillworkbyloveandproduceholiness,andnotfindingallthisatonceinthemselves,theythinktheyhavenofaithatall.Theyforgetthatthesethingsarethefruitsof faith,andnotfaith itself,andthat todoubtwhetherwehave faith,becausewedonotsee thematonce, is likedoubtingwhethera tree isalive,because itdoesnotbear fruit theverydayweplantitintheground.Ichargeyoutosettleitfirmlyinyourmind,thatinthematterofyourforgivenessandjustificationthere isbutonethingrequired,andthatis,simplefaithinChrist.

I know well that the natural heart dislikes this doctrine. It runs counter to man'snotionsof religion. It leaveshimno room toboast.Man's idea is to come toChristwithapriceinhishand—hisregularity—hismorality,hisrepentance—hisgoodness—and so, as itwere, tobuyhis pardon and justification. The Spirit's teaching is quitedifferent—itisfirstofall,tobelieve.Whoeverbelievesshallnotperish.(John3:16)

Somesaysuchdoctrinecannotberight,becauseitmakesthewaytoheaventooeasy.I fear thatmanysuchpeople, if the truthwere spoken, find it toohard. I believe in

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realityitiseasiertogiveafortuneinbuildingacathedral,ortogotothestakeandbeburned, than thoroughly to receive "justification by faith without the deeds of thelaw,"andtoenterheavenasasinnersavedbygrace.

Somesaythisdoctrineisfoolishnessandenthusiasm.Ianswer,Thisisjustwhatwassaid of it 1800 years ago, and it is a vain cavil now, as itwas then. So far from thecharge being true, a thousand facts can prove this doctrine to be from God. Nodoctrine certainly has produced such mighty effects in the world, as the simpleproclamationoffreeforgivenessthroughfaithinChrist.ThisisthegloriousdoctrinewhichwasthestrengthoftheApostleswhentheywentforthtotheGentilestopreachanewreligion.Theybegan,a fewpoor fishermen, inadespisedcornerof the earth.They turned the world upside down. They changed the face of the Roman empire.Theyemptiedtheheathentemplesoftheirworshipers,andmadethewholesystemofidolatrycrumbleaway.Andwhatwastheweaponbywhichtheydiditall?ItwasfreeforgivenessthroughfaithinJesusChrist.

ThisisthedoctrinewhichbroughtlightintoEurope300yearsago,atthetimeoftheblessed Reformation, and enabled one solitary monk, Martin Luther, to shake thewholeChurchofRome.Throughhispreachingandwritingthescalesfellfrommen'seyes,andthechainsoftheirsoulswereloosed.Andwhatwastheleverthatgavehimhispower?ItwasfreeforgivenessthroughfaithinJesusChrist.

ThisisthedoctrinewhichrevivedourownChurchinthemiddleoflastcentury,whenWhitefield,andtheWesleys,andBerridge,andVennbrokeupthewretched"spiritofslumber"which had come over the land, and roused people to think. They began amightywork,with little seeming likelihood of success. They began, few in number,with small encouragement from the rich and great. But they prospered. And why?BecausetheypreachedfreeforgivenessthroughfaithinChrist.

ThisisthedoctrinewhichisthetruestrengthofanyChurchonearthatthisday.Itisnoteducation,orendowments,orliturgies,orlearning,thatwillkeepaChurchalive.Let free forgiveness through Christ be faithfully proclaimed in her pulpits, and thegates of hell shall not prevail against her. Let it be buried, or kept back, and hercandlestick will soon be taken away. When the Saracens invaded the lands whereJerome,andAthanasius,andCyprian,andAugustineoncewroteandpreached, theyfoundbishopsandliturgies,Imakenoquestion.ButIfeartheyfoundnopreachingoffree forgiveness of sins, and so they swept theChurches of those lands clean away.Theywereabodywithoutavitalprinciple,andthereforetheyfell.LetusneverforgetthebrightestdaysofaChurcharethosewhen"Christcrucified"ismostexalted.Thedens and caves of the earth, where the early Christiansmet to hear of the love ofJesus,weremorefullofgloryandbeautyinGod'ssightthaneverwasPeter'satRome.Thebasestbarnatthisday,wherethetruewayofpardonisofferedtosinners,isafarmorehonorableplacethantheCathedralofCologneorMilan.AChurchisonlyuseful

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sofarassheexaltsfreeforgivenessthroughChrist.

Thisisthedoctrinewhich,ofallothers,isthemightiestengineforpullingdownthekingdom of Satan. The Greenlanders were unmoved so long as theMoravians toldthemofthecreationandthefallofman;butwhentheyheardofredeeminglove,theirfrozenheartsmeltedlikesnowinspring.Preachsalvationbythesacraments,exalttheChurchaboveChrist,andkeepbackthedoctrineoftheAtonement,andthedevilcareslittle—his goodsare atpeace.Butpreacha fullChrist, anda freepardonby faith inHim,andthenSatanwillhavegreatwrath,forheknowshehasbutashorttime.JohnBerridge saidhewent onpreachingmorality andnothing else, until he found therewasnotamoralmaninhisparish.Butwhenhechangedhisplan,andbegantopreachtheloveofChristtosinners,andafreesalvationbyfaith,thentherewasastirringofthedrybones,andamightyturningtoGod.

Thisistheonlydoctrinewhichwilleverbringpeacetoanuneasyconscience,andrestto a troubled soul. Amanmay get on prettywellwithout it so long as he is asleepabouthisspiritualcondition.Butoncelethimawakefromhisslumber,andnothingwillevercalmhimbutthebloodofAtonement,andthepeacewhichcomesbyfaithinChrist.Howanyonecanundertaketobeaministerofreligionwithoutafirmgraspofthisdoctrine, Inever canunderstand.Formyself, I canonly say, I should thinkmyoffice amost painful one if I had not themessage of free forgiveness to convey. Itwouldbemiserableworkindeedtovisitthesickanddying,ifIcouldnotsay,"BeholdtheLambofGod—believeontheLordJesusChrist,andyoushallbesaved."TherighthandofaChristianministeristhedoctrineoffreeforgivenessthroughfaithinChrist.Give us this doctrine, and we have power—we will never despair of doing good tomen's souls. Take away this doctrine, and we are weak as water.Wemay read theprayersandgothrougharoundofforms—butwearelikeSamsonwithhishairshorn—ourstrengthisgone.Soulswillnotbebenefittedbyus,andgoodwillnotbedone.

I commend the things I have been saying to the notice of every reader. I am notashamedof freepardon through faith inChrist,whatever somemay sayagainst thedoctrine.Iamnotashamedofit,foritsfruitsspeakforthemselves.Ithasdonethingsthat no other doctrine can do. It has effected moral changes which laws andpunishments have failed to work—which magistrates and policemen have laboredafter invain—whicheducationandsecularknowledgehaveprovedutterlypowerlesstoproduce.Justas the fiercest lunatics in theasylumbecamesuddenlygentlewhenkindly treated, even so theworst andmost hardened sinners have often become aslittle children, when told of Jesus loving them and willing to forgive. I can wellunderstandPaulendinghisEpistletotheerringGalatianswiththatsolemnburstoffeeling, "God forbid that I should glory, but in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ."(Gal.6:14.)Thecrownhas indeed fallen fromaChristian'sheadwhenhe leaves thedoctrineofjustificationbyfaith.

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YoushouldaskyourselfwhetheryouhavereallyreceivedthetruthwhichIhavebeendwellingon,andknowitbyexperience.Jesus,andfaithinHim,istheonlywaytotheFather.Hewho thinks to climb into Paradise by some other road,will find himselffearfullymistaken.OtherfoundationcannomanlayforanimmortalsoulthanthatofwhichIhavebeenfeeblyspeaking.Hewhoventureshimselfhere issafe.Hewhoisoffthisrockhasgotnostandinggroundatall.

You should seriously consider what kind of a ministry you are in the habit ofattending,supposingyouhaveachoice.Youhavereasonindeedtobecareful.Itisnotall the same where you go, whatever people may say. There are many places ofworship, I fear,whereyoumight look long forChrist crucified,andnever findHim.Heisburiedunderoutwardceremonies—thrustbehindthebaptismalfont—lostsightofundertheshadowoftheChurch."TheyhavetakenawaymyLord,andIknownotwheretheyhavelaidHim."(John20:13.)Takeheedwhereyousettleyourself.Tryallby this single test, "Is Jesus and free forgiveness proclaimed here?" There may becomfortablepews—theremaybegoodsinging—theremaybelearnedsermons.But ifChrist'sGospel isnot the sun and center of thewholeplace, donotpitch your tentthere.SayratherwithIsaac."Here,isthewoodandthefire—butwhereisthelamb?"(Gen.22:7.)Beverysurethisisnottheplaceforyoursoul.

III.Letme,inthethirdplace,encourageallwhowishtobeforgiven.

Idarebesure thispaperwillbereadbysomeonewho feelshe isnotyeta forgivensoul.Myheart'sdesireandprayeristhatsuchaonemayseekhispardonatonce.AndIwouldgladlyhelphim forward,by showinghim thekindof forgivenessoffered tohim,andthegloriousprivilegeswithinhisreach.

Listentome,then,whileItrytoexhibittoyouthetreasuresofGospelforgiveness.IcannotdescribeitsfullnessasIought.Itsrichesareindeedunsearchable.(Eph.3:8.)Butifyouwillturnawayfromit,youshallnotbeabletosayinthedayofjudgment,youdidnotatallknowwhatitwas.

Consider, then, for one thing, that the forgiveness set before you is aGREATandBROADforgiveness.HearwhatthePrinceofPeaceHimselfdeclares,"Allsinsshallbe forgivenunto the sonsofmen, andallblasphemies." (Mark3:28.) "Thoughyoursinsbeasscarlet,theyshallbecomewhiteassnow—thoughtheyberedlikecrimson,theyshallbeaswool."(Isaiah1:18.)Yes—thoughyourtrespassesbemoreinnumberthanthehairsofyourhead,thestarsinheaven,theleavesoftheforest,thebladesofgrass,thegrainsofsandontheseashore—stilltheycanallbepardoned!AsthewatersofNoah'sfloodcoveredoverandhidthetopsofthehighesthills,socanthebloodofJesus cover over andhide yourmightiest sins. "His blood cleanses from all sin." (1John1:7.)Thoughtoyoutheyseemwrittenwiththepointofadiamond,theycanallbeeffacedfromthebookofGod'sremembrancebythatpreciousblood.Paulnamesa

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longlistofabominationswhichtheCorinthianshadcommitted,andthensays,"Suchweresomeofyou—butyouarewashed."(1Cor.6:11.)

Furthermore,itisaFULLandCOMPLETEforgiveness.ItisnotlikeDavid'spardontoAbsalom,apermissiontoreturnhome—butnotafullrestorationtofavor.(2Sam.14:24.)Itisnot,assomefancy,amerelettingoff,andlettingalone.Itisapardonsocompletethathewhohasitisreckonedasrighteousasifhehadneversinnedatall!Hisiniquitiesareblottedout.Theyareremovedfromhimasfarastheeastfromthewest.(Psalm103:12.)Thereremainsnocondemnationforhim.TheFatherseeshimjoined to Christ, and is well pleased. The Son beholds him clothed with His ownrighteousness,andsays,"Youareallfair,thereisnospotinyou."(Cant.4:7.)Blessedbe God that it is so! I verily believe if the best of us all had only one blot left forhimself towipeout,hewouldmisseternal life. If theholiestchildofAdamwere inheavenallbuthislittlefinger,andtogetindependedonhimself,Iamsurehewouldneverenterthekingdom.IfNoah,Daniel,andJob,hadhadbutoneday'ssinstowashaway, theywould never have been saved. Praised beGod, that in thematter of ourpardonthereisnothingleftformantodo!Jesusdoesall,andmanhasonlytoholdoutanemptyhandandtoreceive.

Furthermore, it isaFREEandUNCONDITIONALforgiveness. It isnotburdenedwith an "if," like Solomon's pardon to Adonijah, "If he will show himself a worthyman."(1Kings1:52.)Noryetareyouobligedtocarryapriceinyourhand,ortobringanuprightcharacterwithyoutoproveyourselfdeservingofmercy.Jesusrequiresbutonecharacter,andthat isthatyoushouldfeelyourselfasinful,badman.He invitesyouto"buywineandmilkwithoutmoneyandwithoutprice,"anddeclares,"Whoeverwill, lethimtakethewaterof life freely."(Isaiah55:1;Rev22:17.)LikeDavid inthecaveofAdullam,Hereceiveseveryonethatfeelsindistressandadebtor,andrejectsnone.(1Sam.22:2.)Areyouasinner?DoyouneedaSavior?ThencometoJesusjustasyouare,andyoursoulshalllive.

Again,itisanOFFEREDforgiveness.IhavereadofearthlyKingswhoknewnothowtoshowmercy.TheKingofkingsisnotlikethem.HecallsonpeopletocometoHim,andbepardoned."Untoyou,Omen,Icall,andmyvoiceistothesonsofmen."(Prov.8:4.) "Ho! everyone who thirsts, come to the waters." (Isaiah 55:1.) "If any manthirsts, lethimcomeuntoMeanddrink." (John7:37.) "ComeuntoMe,allyouwholaborandareheavyladen,andIwillgiveyourest."(Matt.11:28.)Itoughttobeagreatcomforttoyouandmetohearofanypardonatall;buttohearJesusHimselfinvitingus, to see JesusHimself holding outHis hand to us—the Savior seeking the sinnerbeforethesinnerseekstheSavior—this isencouragement, this isstrongconsolationindeed!

Again,itisaWILLINGforgiveness.Ihaveheardofpardonsgrantedinreplytolongentreaty, and wrung out by much importunity. King Edward the Third of England

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wouldnotsparethecitizensofCalaisuntiltheycametohimwithhaltersroundtheirnecks,andhisownQueenintercededforthemonherknees.ButJesus is"goodandreadytoforgive."(Psalm86:5.)He"delightsinmercy."(Micah7:18.)Judgmentis"Hisstrangework."He is notwilling that any shouldperish. (Isai. 28:21, 2Pet. 3:9.)Hewouldgladlyhaveallmensaved,andcometotheknowledgeofthetruth.(1Tim.2:4.)HeweptoverunbelievingJerusalem."AsI live,"Hesays, "Ihavenopleasure in thedeathofthewicked.Turn!Turnfromyourevilways;whywillyoudie?"(Ezek.33:11.)YouandImaywellcomeboldlytothethroneofgrace.Hewhositsthereisfarmorewillingandreadytogivemercythanwearetoreceiveit.(Heb.4:16.)

Besidesthis,itisaTRIEDforgiveness.Thousandsandtensofthousandshavesoughtforpardonat themercy-seatofChrist,andnotonehasever returned tosay thathesought in vain. Sinners of every name and nation—sinners of every sort anddescription—haveknockedat thedoorof the fold, andnonehave everbeen refusedadmission.Zaccheustheextortioner,Magdalentheharlot,Saulthepersecutor,Peterthe denier of his Lord, the Jews who crucified the Prince of Life, the idolatrousAthenians, the adulterous Corinthians, the ignorant Africans, the bloodthirsty NewZealanders, all have ventured their souls onChrist's promises of pardon—and nonehaveeverfoundthemtofail.IfthewaywhichtheGospelsetsbeforeuswereanewanduntraveledway—wemightwellfeelfaint-hearted.Butitisnotso.Itisanoldpath.Itisapathwornbythefeetofmanypilgrims,andapathinwhichthefootstepsarealloneway.The treasury of Christ'smercies has never been found empty. Thewell oflivingwatershasneverproveddry.

Besides this, it is a PRESENT forgiveness. All who believe in Jesus are at oncejustified fromall things. (Acts 13:39.)The veryday the younger son returned tohisfather'shousehewasclothedwiththebestrobe,hadtheringputonhishand,andtheshoes on his feet. (Luke 15.) The very day Zaccheus received Jesus he heard thosecomfortablewords,"Thisday issalvationcometothishouse."(Luke19:9.)Theveryday thatDavid said, "I have sinned against the Lord," hewas told by Nathan, "TheLordalsohasputawayyoursin."(2Sam.12:13.)TheverydayyoufirstfleetoChrist,your sins are all removed. Your pardon is not a thing far away, to be obtained onlyaftermanyyears.Itisnearathand.Itisclosetoyou,withinyourreach,allreadytobebestowed. Believe, and that very moment it is your own. "He who believes is notcondemned."(John3:18.)Itisnotsaid,"Heshallnotbe,"or"willnotbe,"but"isnot."From the time of his believing, condemnation is gone. "He who believes haseverlastinglife."(John3:36.)Itisnotsaid,"Heshallhave,"or"willhave,"itis"has."It ishisownassurelyas ifhewasinheaven,thoughnotsoevidentlysotohisowneyes. You must not think forgiveness will be nearer to a believer in the day ofjudgment than itwas in thehourhe first believed.His complete salvation from thepowerof sin is every year nearer and nearer to him; but as to his forgiveness andjustification,anddeliverancefromtheguiltofsin,itisafinishedworkfromtheveryminutehefirstcommitshimselftoChrist.

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Last, and best of all, it is an EVERLASTING forgiveness. It is not like Shimei'spardon—apardonthatmaysometimeberevokedandtakenaway.(1Kings2:9.)Oncejustified,youarejustifiedforever.Oncewrittendowninthebookof life,yournameshallneverbeblottedout.ThesinsofGod'schildrenaresaid tobecast intothedepthsofthesea—tobesoughtforandnotfound—toberememberednomore—tobecastbehindGod'sback.(Mic.7:19;Jer.50:20;31:34;Isa.38:17.)Somepeoplefancytheymaybejustifiedoneyearandcondemnedanother—childrenof adoption at one time, and strangers by and by—heirs of the kingdom in thebeginningoftheirdays,andyetservantsofthedevilintheirend.IcannotfindthisintheBible—astheNewZealandertoldtheRomishpriest,"IdonotseeitintheBook."ItseemstometooverturnthegoodnewsoftheGospelaltogether,andtotearupitscomfortsbytheroots.IbelievethesalvationJesusoffers isaneverlastingsalvation,andapardononcesealedwithHisbloodshallneverbereversed.

Ihavesetbeforeyouthenatureoftheforgivenessofferedtoyou.Ihavetoldyoubutalittleof it, formywordsareweakerthanmywill.Thehalfof itremainsuntold.Thegreatnessofitisfarmorethananyreportofmine.ButIthinkIhavesaidenoughtoshowyouitisworththeseeking,andIcanwishyounothingbetterthanthatyoumaystrivetomakeityourown.

Doyoucallitnothingtolookforwardtodeathwithoutfear,andtojudgmentwithoutdoubtings,andtoeternitywithoutasinkingheart?Doyoucall itnothingtofeeltheworld slipping from your grasp, and to see the grave getting ready for you, and thevalleyoftheshadowofdeathopeningbeforeyoureyes,andyettobenotafraid?Doyou call it nothing to be able to think of the great day of account, the throne, thebooks, theJudge, the assembledworlds, the revealingof secrets, the final sentence,and yet to feel, "I am safe"?This is theportion, and this theprivilege of a forgivensoul.

Such an one ison arock.When the rain of God's wrath descends, and the floodscome,andthewindsblow,hisfeetshallnotslide,hishabitationshallbesure.

Suchanoneisinanark.Whenthelastfierydelugeissweepingoverallthingsonthesurface of the earth, it shall not come near him.He shall be caught up, and bornesecurelyaboveitall.

Suchanoneisinahidingplace.WhenGodarisestojudge,andpeoplearecallingtorocksandmountainstofalluponthemandcoverthem,theEverlastingArmsshallbethrownaroundhim,andthestormshallpassoverhishead.Heshall"abideundertheshadowoftheAlmighty."(Psalm91:1.)

Such an one is in acityofrefuge. The accuser of the brethren can lay no charge

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against him. The law cannot condemn him. There is a wall between him and theavenger of blood. The enemies of his soul cannot hurt him. He is in a securesanctuary.

Suchanoneisrich.Hehastreasure inheavenwhichcannotbeaffectedbyworldlychanges,comparedtowhichPeruandCaliforniaarenothingatall.Heneednotenvythe richest merchants and bankers. He has a portion that will endure when bank-notesanddollarsareworthlessthings.Hecansay,liketheSpanishambassador,whenshownthetreasuryatVenice,"MyMaster'streasuryhasnobottom."HehasChrist.

Suchanoneisinsured.Heisreadyforanythingthatmayhappen.Nothingcanharmhim.Banksmaybreak,andGovernmentsmaybeoverturned.Famineandpestilencemayragearoundhim.Sicknessandsorrowmayvisithisownfireside.Butstillhe isready for all—ready for health—ready for disease—ready for tears—ready for joy—readyforpoverty—readyforplenty—readyforlife,readyfordeath.HehasChrist.Heisapardonedsoul."Blessed"indeed"ishewhosetransgressionisforgiven,andwhosesiniscovered."(Ps.32:1.)

Howwillanyoneescapeifheneglectssogreatsalvation?Whyshouldyounotlayholdonitatonce,andsay,Pardonme,evenmealso,OmySavior!Whatwouldyouhave,ifthewayIhavesetbeforeyoudoesnotsatisfyyou?Comewhilethedoorisopen.Ask,andyoushallreceive.

IV.Letme, in the lastplace, supply thereadersof thispaperwith somemarksofhavingfoundforgiveness.

Idarenotleaveoutthispoint.Toomanypeoplepresumetheyareforgiven,whohaveno evidence to show.Not a few cannot think it possible they are forgiven, who areplainly in theway toheaven, thoughtheymaynot see it themselves. Iwouldgladlyraisehopeinsome,andself-inquiryinothers;andtodothis,letmesetdowninordertheleadingmarksofaforgivensoul.

(a)Forgiven soulsHATESIN. They can entermost fully into the words of ourCommunionService,"Theremembranceofsinisgrievousuntothem,andtheburdenofitisintolerable."Itistheserpentwhichbitthem—howshouldtheynotshrinkfromitwithhorror?Itisthepoisonwhichbroughtthemtothebrinkofeternaldeath—howshould theynot loathe itwithagodlydisgust? It is theEgyptian enemywhichkepttheminhardbondage—howshouldnottheverymemoryofitbebittertotheirhearts?Itisthediseaseofwhichtheycarrythemarksandscarsaboutthem,andfromwhichthey have scarcely recovered—well may they dread it, flee from it, and long to bedelivered altogether from its power! Remember how the woman in Simon's housewept over the feet of Jesus. (Luke 7:38.) Remember how the Ephesians publiclyburned their wicked books. (Acts 19:19.) Remember how Paul mourned over his

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youthfultransgressions,"IamnotfittobecalledanApostle,becauseIpersecutedtheChurch of God." (1 Cor. 15:9.) If you and sin are friends, you and God are not yetreconciled.Youarenotfitforheaven;foronemainpartofheaven'sexcellenceistheabsenceofallsin.

(b)ForgivensoulsLOVECHRIST.Thisisthatonethingtheycansay,iftheydaresaynothingelse—theydoloveChrist.Hisperson,Hisoffices,Hiswork,Hisname,Hiscross, His blood, His words, His example, His ordinances—all, all are precious toforgiven souls.TheministrywhichexaltsHimmost, is thatwhich they enjoymost.ThebookswhicharemostfullofHim,aremostpleasanttotheirminds.Thepeopleonearththeyfeelmostdrawnto,arethoseinwhomtheyseesomethingofChrist.Hisnameisasointmentpouredforth,andcomeswithapeculiarsweetnesstotheirears.(Cant. 1:3.) They would tell you they cannot help feeling as they do. He is theirRedeemer, their Shepherd, their Physician, their King, their strong Deliverer, theirgraciousGuide,theirhope,theirjoy,theirAll.WereitnotforHimtheywouldbeofallpeoplemostmiserable.Theywouldassoonconsentthatyoushouldtakethesunoutofthesky,asChristoutoftheirreligion.Thosepeoplewhotalkof"theLord,"and"theAlmighty,"and"theDeity,"andsoforth—buthavenotawordtosayaboutChrist,areinanythingbutarightstateofmind.Whatsays theScripture?"HewhohonorsnottheSon,honorsnottheFatherwhohassentHim."(John5:23.)"IfanymanlovesnottheLordJesusChrist,lethimbeanathema."(1Cor.16:22.)

(c)ForgivensoulsareHUMBLE.Theycannotforgetthattheyoweall theyhaveandhopefortofreegrace,andthiskeepsthemlowly.Theyarebrandspluckedfromthe fire—debtors who could not pay for themselves—captives who must haveremained in prison forever—but for undeservedmercy—wandering sheepwhowereready to perish when the Shepherd found them! What right then have they to beproud? I donot deny that there are proud saints. But this I do say—they are of allGod's creatures the most inconsistent, and of all God's children the most likely tostumbleandpiercethemselveswithmanysorrows.ForgivenessmoreoftenproducesthespiritofJacob,"Iamnotworthyoftheleastofall themercies,andall the truthwhichYouhaveshoweduntoYourservant"(Gen.32:10);andofHezekiah,"Ishallgosoftlyallmyyears"(Isaiah38:15);andoftheApostlePaul,"Iamlessthantheleastofallsaints—chiefofsinners."(Eph.3:8;1Tim.1:15.)Wehavenothingwecancallourown--butsinandweakness.Surelythereisnogarmentthatbefitsussowell,ashumility.

(d)ForgivensoulsareHOLY.Theirchiefdesire is topleaseHimwhohassavedthem,todoHiswill,toglorifyHiminbodyandinSpirit,whichareHis."WhatshallIrender unto the Lord for all His benefits?" (Ps. 116:12), is a leading principle in apardonedheart. Itwas the remembranceofJesusshowingmercy thatmadePaul inlabors so abundant, and in doing good so unwearied. It was a sense of pardon thatmade Zaccheus say, "The half of my goods I give to the poor, and if I have taken

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anything fromanyman falsely, Iwill restorehim four-fold." (Luke 19:8.) If anyonepoints out tome believerswho are in a carnal, slothful state of soul, I reply in thewordsof Peter, "They have forgotten theywere purged from their old sins." (2 Pet.1:9.)But ifyoushowmeamandeliberately livinganunholyandlicentious life,andyetboastingthathissinsareforgiven,Ianswer,"Heisunderaruinousdelusion,andis not forgiven at all." I would not believe he is forgiven if an angel from heavenaffirmedit,andIchargeyounottobelieveittoo.Pardonofsinandloveofsinarelikeoilandwater—theywillnevergotogether.AllwhoarewashedinthebloodofChrist,arealsosanctifiedbytheSpiritofChrist.

(e) Forgiven souls areFORGIVING.They do as they have been done by. Theylook over the offences of their brethren. They endeavor to "walk in love, as Christloved them, and gave Himself for them." (Eph. 5:2.) They remember how God forChrist's sake forgave them, and endeavor to do the same towards their fellow-creatures. Has He forgiven them pounds, and shall they not forgive a few pence?Doubtlessinthis,asineverythingelse,theycomeshort—butthis istheirdesireandtheir aim.A spiteful, quarrelsomeChristian is a scandal tohisprofession. It is veryhard to believe that such a one has ever sat at the foot of the cross, and has everconsideredhowheisprayingagainsthimselfeverytimeheusestheLord'sPrayer.Ishenotsayingasitwere,"Father,donotforgivememytrespassesatall"?Butitisstillhardertounderstandwhatsuchaonewoulddoinheaven,ifhegotthere.Allideasofheaven inwhich forgivenesshasnot a place, are castles in the air and vain fancies.Forgiveness is thewaybywhich every saved soul enters heaven. Forgiveness is theonly titlebywhichhe remains inheaven.Forgiveness is the eternal subjectof songwith all the redeemed who inhabit heaven. Surely an unforgiving soul in heavenwouldfindhisheartcompletelyoutoftune.SurelyweknownothingofChrist'slovetousbutthenameofit,ifwedonotloveourbrethren.

I lay these things before every reader of this paper. I know well there are greatdiversitiesinthedegreeofmen'sattainmentsingrace,andthatsavingfaithinChristisconsistentwithmanyimperfections.But still Idobelieve the fivemarks I have just been namingwill generally be foundmore or less in all forgivensouls.

Icannotconcealfromyou,thesemarksshouldraiseinmanymindsgreatsearchingsofheart.Imustbeplain.I feartherearethousandsofpeoplecalledChristians,whoknow nothing of thesemarks. They are baptized. They attend the services of theirChurch. They would not on any account be reckoned infidels. But as to truerepentanceandsavingfaith,unionwithChristandsanctificationoftheSpirit,theyare"namesandwords"ofwhichtheyknownothingatall.

Nowifthispaperisreadbysuchpeople,itwillprobablyeitheralarmthem,ormakethemveryangry.IfitmakesthemangryIshallbesorry.If italarmsthemIshallbe

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glad. Iwant toalarm them. Iwant toawaken them from theirpresent state. Iwantthemtotakeinthegreatfact,thattheyarenotyetforgiven,thattheyhavenotpeacewithGod—andareonthehighroadtodestruction.

Imust say this, for I seenoalternative. It seemsneitherChristian faithfulness,norChristiancharity,tokeepitback.IseecertainmarksofpardonedsoulslaiddowninScripture. I see an utter lack of thesemarks inmanymen andwomen aroundme.HowthencanIavoidtheconclusionthattheyarenotyet"forgiven"?AndhowshallIdotheworkofafaithfulwatchmanifIdonotwriteitdownplainlyinsomanywords?Where is the use of crying Peace! Peace! when there is no peace? Where is thehonestyofactingthepartofa lyingphysician,andtellingpeoplethere isnodanger,wheninrealitytheyarefastdrawingneartoeternaldeath?SurelythebloodofsoulswouldberequiredatmyhandsifIwrotetoyouanythinglessthanthetruth."Ifthetrumpet gives anuncertain sound,who shall preparehimself to the battle?" (1Cor.14:8.)

Examine yourself, then, before this subject is forgotten. Consider ofwhat sort yourreligion is.Try itby the fivemarks Ihave just set before you. I have endeavored tomakethemasbroadandgeneralasIcan,forfearofcausinganyhearttobesadthatGodhasnotmadesad.Ifyouknowanythingof them,thoughitbebuta little,Iamthankful,andentreatyoutogoforward.Butifyouknownothingoftheminyourownexperience,letmesay,inallaffection,Istandindoubtofyou.Itrembleforyoursoul!

1. And now, before I conclude, letme putaPLAINQUESTION to everyone whoreadsthispaper.Itshallbeshortandclear—butitisallimportant,"Areyouforgiven?"

I have told you all I can about forgiveness. Yourneedof forgiveness—theway offorgiveness,theencouragementstoseekforgiveness—themarksofhavingfoundit—all have been placed before you. Bring the whole subject to bear upon your ownheart,andaskyourself,"AmIforgiven?EitherIam,orIamnot.Whichofthetwoisit?"

You believe perhaps, there is forgiveness of sins. You believe that Christ died forsinners, and that He offers a pardon to the most ungodly. But are you forgivenyourself?HaveyouyourselflaidholdonChristbyfaith,andfoundpeacethroughHisblood?What profit is there to you in forgiveness, except you get the benefit of it?Whatdoesitprofittheshipwreckedsailorthatthelife-boatisalongside,ifhedoesnotjump in and escape?What does it avail the sickman that the doctor offers him amedicine,ifheonlylooksatit,anddoesnotswallowitdown?Exceptyoulayholdforyourownsoul,youwillbeassurelylostasiftherewasnoforgivenessatall.

Ifeveryoursinsaretobeforgiven,itmustbenow—nowinthislife,ifeverinthelifeto come—now in this world, if they are to be found blotted out when Jesus comes

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again thesecondtime.TheremustbeactualbusinessbetweenyouandChrist.YoursinsmustbelaidonHimbyfaith—Hisrighteousnessmustbelaidonyou.Hisbloodmust be applied to your conscience, or else your sins will meet you in the day ofjudgment, and sink you into hell. Oh, how can you trifle when such things are atstake?Howcanyoubecontenttoleaveituncertainwhetheryouareforgiven?Surelythatamancanmakehiswill,insurehislife,givedirectionsabouthisfuneral,andyetleavehissoul'saffairsinuncertainty—isanamazingthingindeed.

2.LetmenextgiveaSOLEMNWARNING toeveryonewhoreads thispaper,andknowsinhisconscienceheisnotforgiven.Yoursoulisinawfuldanger.Youmaydiethisyear.And if youdieasyouare,youare lost forever! If youdiewithout pardon,without pardon youwill rise again at the last day. There is a sword over your headwhichhangsbyasinglehair!Thereisbutastepbetweenyouanddeath.Oh,Iwonderthatyoucansleepquietlyinyourbed!

Youarenotyetforgiven.Thenwhathaveyougotbyyourreligion?Yougotochurch.You have a Bible, you have a Prayer-book, and perhaps a Hymn-book. You hearsermons.Youjoininservices.ItmaybeyougototheLord'stable.Butwhathaveyoureallygotafterall?Anyhope?Anypeace?Any joy?Anycomfort?Nothing!Literallynothing!Youhavegotnothingbutmereexternalreligion—ifyouarenotapardonedsoul.

Youarenotyet forgiven.But you trustGodwillbemerciful.Yetwhy shouldHebemercifulifyouwillnotseekHiminHisownappointedway?MercifulHedoubtlessis,wonderfullymercifultoallwhocometoHiminthenameofJesus.Butifyouchooseto despiseHis directions, andmake a road to heaven of your own—youwill find toyourcostthereisnomercyforyou!

Youarenotyetforgiven.Butyouhopeyouwillbesomeday.Thisislikethrustingoffthehandofconscience,andseizingitbythethroattostopitsvoice.Whyareyoumorelikelytoseekforgivenessatafuturetime?Whyshouldyounotseekitnow?Nowisthetimeforgatheringthebreadoflife.ThedayoftheLordisfastdrawingnear,andthen no man can work. (Exod. 16:26.) The Seventh trumpet will soon sound. ThekingdomsofthisworldwillsoonbecomethekingdomsofourLordandofHisChrist.(Rev.11:15.)Woetothehousewhichisfoundwithoutthescarletline,andwithoutthemarkofblooduponthedoor!(Josh.2:18;Exod.12:13.)

Well,youmaynotfeelyourneedofforgivenessnow.Butatimemaycomewhenyouwillwantit.TheLordinmercygrantthatitmaynotthenbetoolate.

3. Let me next give anEARNEST INVITATION to all who read this paper anddesireforgiveness.Iknownotwhoyouare,orwhatyouhavebeenintimepast.ButIsayboldly,CometoChristbyfaith,andyoushallhaveapardon.Highorlow,richor

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poor, youngmen andmaidens, old people and children—you cannot be worse thanManassehandPaulbeforeconversion—thanDavidandPeterafterconversion—comeallofyoutoChrist,andyoushallbefreelyforgiven!

DonotthinkforamomentthatyouhavesomegreatthingtodobeforeyoucometoChrist.Suchanotionisoftheearth,earthy;theGospelbidsyoucomejustasyouare.Man's ideaistomakehispeacewithGodbyrepentance,andthencometoChristatlast.TheGospelway is toreceivepeace fromChrist firstofall,andbeginwithHim.Man's idea is to amend, and turn over a new leaf—and so work his way up toreconciliationandfriendshipwithGod.TheGospelwayisfirsttobefriendswithGodthroughChrist,andthentowork.Man'sideaistotoilupthehill,andfindlifeat thetop.TheGospelwayisfirsttolivebyfaithinChrist,andthentodoHiswill.

And judge you, everyone, judge you, which is true Christianity?Which is the goodnews?Which is the glad tidings? First the fruits of the Spirit and then peace withGod?OrfirstpeacewithGodandthenthefruitsoftheSpirit?Firstsanctificationandthenpardon?Orfirstpardonandthensanctification?Firstserviceandthen life?Orfirstlifeandthenservice?Yourownheartscanwellsupplytheanswer.

Come then, willing to receive, and not thinking how much you can bring. Come,willing to takewhatChristoffers,andnot fancyingyou cangive anything in return.Comewithyoursins,andnootherqualificationbutaheartydesireforpardon,and,assureastheBibleistrue,youshallbesaved.

Youmay tellme you are notworthy, you are not good enough, you are not elect. Ianswer,Youareasinner,andyouwanttobesaved,andwhatmoredoyouneed?YouareoneofthosewhomJesuscametosave.CometoHimandyoushallhavelife.Takewithyouwords,andHewillhearyougraciously.TellHimallyoursoul'snecessities,and I know from theBibleHewill give heed. TellHim youhave heardHe receivessinners,andthatyouaresuch.TellHimyouhaveheardHehasthekeysoflifeinhishand,andentreatHim to let you in.TellHimyoucome independenceonHis ownpromises,andaskHimtofulfillHisword,and"doasHehassaid."(2Sam.7:25.)Dothisinsimplicityandsincerity,and,mysoulforyours—youshallnotaskinvain.DothisandyoushallfindHimfaithfulandjusttoforgiveyoursins,andtocleanseyoufromallunrighteousness.(1John1:9.)

4.Lastofall,letmegiveawordofEXHORTATIONtoallforgivensouls.Youareforgiven.Thenknowthefullextentofyourprivileges,andlearntorejoiceintheLord.YouandIaregreatsinners—butthenwehaveagreatSavior.YouandIhavesinnedsins that are past man's knowledge—but then we have "the love of Christ, whichpasses knowledge," to rest upon. (Eph. 3:19.) You and I feel our hearts to be abubbling fountain of evil—but thenwe have another fountain of greaterpowerinChrist'sblood,towhichwemaydailyresort.YouandIhavemighty

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enemiestocontendwith—butthenthe"Captainofoursalvation"ismightierstill,andiseverwithus.Whyshouldourheartsbetroubled?Whyshouldwebedisquietedandcastdown?Omenandwomenoflittlefaiththatweare!Whydowedoubt?

Let us strive every year to grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord JesusChrist.Itissadtobecontentwithalittlepiety.Itishonorabletocovetthebestgifts.Weoughtnottobesatisfiedwiththesamekindofhearing,andreading,andpraying,whichsatisfiedusinyearsgoneby.Weoughttolaboreveryyeartothrowmoreheartandreality into everythingwe do in our religion. To love Christmore intensely—toabhorsinmorethoroughly—tocleavetowhatisgoodmoreclosely—towatchevenourleastwaysmorenarrowly—todeclareveryplainlythatweseekaheavenlycountry—toputontheLordJesusChrist,andbeclothedwithHimineveryplaceandcompany—toseemore—tofeelmore—toknowmore—todomore—theseoughttobeouraimsanddesireseveryyearwebegin.Trulythereisroomforimprovementinusall.

Letustrytodogoodtothesoulsofothers,morethanwehavedonehitherto.Alas,itispoorworkindeedtobeswallowedupinourownspiritualconcerns,andtakenupwithourownspiritualailments,andnevertothinkofothers!Weforgetthatthereissuchathingasreligiousselfishness.Letuscountitasorrowfulthingtogotoheavenalone,andletusseektodrawcompanionswithus.Weoughtnevertoforgetthateveryman,womanandchildaroundus—willsoonbeeither inheavenorhell.Letussaytoothers,asMosesdidtoHobab,"Comewithus,andwewilldoyougood."(Num.10:29.)Oh, it is indeedatruesaying,"Hewhowatersshallbewateredhimself." (Prov. 11:25.)The idle,do-little, selfishChristianhas little ideawhathe ismissing.

Butaboveall,letuslearntolivethelifeoffaithinJesusmorethanwehavehitherto.Ever to be foundby the fountain side—ever to be eatingChrist's body by faith, anddrinkingChrist'sbloodbyfaith—evertohavebeforeourmindsChrist'sdyingforoursins—Christ'srisingagainforourjustification—ChristintercedingforusatGod'srighthand—Christsooncomingagain togatherus toHimself—this is themarkwhichweshouldhavecontinuallybeforeoureyes.Wemayfallshort—butletusaimhigh.LetuswalkinthefulllightoftheSunofrighteousness,andthenourgraceswillgrow.Letus not be like trees on a cold northwall—weak, half-starved, and unfruitful. Let usratherstrivetobelikethesunflower—andfollowthegreatFountainofLightwhereverHe goes, and see Him with open face. Oh, for an eye more quick to discern Hisdealings!Oh,foranearmorereadytohearHisvoice!

Finally, let us say to everything in theworld that interferes between ourselves andJesusChrist, "Standaside!"Letusdreadallowingourselves in the least evil habits,lestinsensiblytheyriseuplikeamistandhideHimfromoureyes."InHislightaloneshallweseelight"andfeelwarmth;andseparatefromHimweshallfindtheworldadark and cold wilderness. (Psalm 36:9.)We should call tomind the request of the

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Athenian philosopher, when the mightiest Monarch on earth asked him what hedesiredmost."Ihave,"saidhe,"butonerequesttomake—thatyouwouldmovefrombetween me and the sun." Let this be the spirit in which you and I are foundcontinually.Letusthinklightlyoftheworld'sgifts.Letussitcalmlyunderitscares.Letuscare fornothing ifwemayonlyeversee theKing's face, ifwemayonlyeverabideinChrist.

Ifoursinsareforgiven,ourbestthingsareyettocome.Yetalittletime,andweshall"seefacetoface,andknowaswehavebeenknown."Weshall"seetheKinginHisbeauty,"and"gooutnomore."(1Cor.13:12;Isa.33:17;Rev.3:12.)"Blessedthenishewhosetransgressionisforgiven,andwhosesinsarecovered."(Psalm32:1.)

Justification

"Being justified by faith, we havepeace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."Romans5:1

ThereisawordinthetextwhichheadsthispagewhichoughttobeverypreciousintheeyesofEnglishmen.Thatwordis"peace."

Evenin"merryEngland"wehaveknownsomethingofthehorrorsofwarinthelastthirty years. The Crimean war, the Indian mutiny, the Chinese, Abyssinian, andAshanteewarshaveleftdeepmarksonthehistoryofourcountry.

Wehavetastedsomeofthetremendousevilswhichwar,howeverjustandnecessary,bringsinitstrain.Battleanddiseasehavedonetheirdeadlyworkamongourgallantsoldiersandsailors.Gentleandsimplebloodhasbeenshed likewater in fardistantlands.Many of the best and bravest of our countrymen are lying cold in untimelygraves. Hearts in England have been broken by sudden, stunning, crushingbereavements.Mourninghasbeenputoninmanyapalace,andmanyacottage.Thelight of hundreds of happy firesides has been quenched. Themirth of thousands ofhomes is gone. Alas, we have learned by bitter experience, what a blessed thing ispeace!

I desire, however, to call the attention of all who read this paper to the best of allpeace—evenpeacewithGod.Iwouldgladlyspeaktoyouofapeacewhichthisworldcanneither givenor take away—apeacewhichdependsonno earthly governments,andneedsnocarnalweapons,either towin itorpreserve it—apeacewhich is freelyofferedbytheKingofkings,andiswithinthereachofallwhoarewillingtoreceiveit.

Thereissuchathingas"peacewithGod."Itmaybefeltandknown.Myheart'sdesire

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andprayer is that youmaybe able to saywith theApostlePaul, "Being justified byfaith,IhavepeacewithGodthroughourLordJesusChrist."(Rom.5:1.)

TherearefourthingswhichIproposetobringbeforeyou,inordertothrowlightonthewholesubject.

I.LetmeshowyouthechiefprivilegeofatrueChristian,"hehaspeacewithGod."

II.Letmeshowyouthefountainfromwhichthatprivilegeflows,"heisjustified."

III.Letmeshowyoutherockfromwhichthatfountainsprings,"JesusChrist."

IV.Letmeshowyouthehandbywhichtheprivilegeismadeourown,"faith."

UponeachofthesefourpointsIhavesomethingtosay.MaytheHolySpiritmakethewholesubjectpeacegivingtosomesouls!

I.Firstofall,letmeshowthechiefprivilegeofatrueChristian—hehaspeacewithGod.

WhentheapostlePaulwrotehisepistletotheRomans,heusedfivewordswhichthewisestof theheathen couldneverhaveused.Socrates, andPlato, andAristotle, andCicero, andSenecawerewisepeople.Onmany subjects they sawmore clearly thanmostpeopleinthepresentday.Theywerepeopleofmightyminds,andofavastrangeofintellect.Butnotoneofthemcouldhavesaidastheapostledid,"IhavepeacewithGod."(Rom5:1.)

When Paul used these words, he spoke not for himself only—but for all trueChristians.Someofthemnodoubthaveagreatersenseofthisprivilegethanothers.Allofthemfindanevilprinciplewithin,warringagainsttheirspiritualwelfaredaybyday. All of them find their adversary, the devil, waging an endless battle with theirsouls. All of them find that they must endure the enmity of the world. But all,notwithstanding,toagreaterorlessextent,"havepeacewithGod."

ThispeacewithGodisacalm,intelligentsenseoffriendshipwiththeLordofheavenand earth. He who has it, feels as if there was no barrier and separation betweenhimselfandhisholyMaker.Hecanthinkofhimselfasundertheeyeofanall-seeingBeing,andyet,notfeelafraid.Hecanbelievethatthisall-seeingBeingbeholdshim,andyetisnotdispleased.

Suchamancanseedeathwaiting forhim,andyetnotbegreatlymoved.Hecangodown into the cold river—closehis eyes on all he has on earth—launch forth into aworldunknown,andtakeuphisabodeinthesilentgrave—andyetfeelpeace.

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Such aman can look forward to the resurrectionand the judgment, and yet not begreatlymoved.Hecanseewithhismind'seyethegreatwhitethrone—theassembledworld—theopenbooks—thelisteningangels—theJudgeHimself—andyetfeelpeace.

Such aman can think of eternity, and yet not be greatlymoved.He can imagine anever-ending existence in the presence of God and of the Lamb, a perpetualcommunion—andyetfeelpeace.

Iknowofnohappinesscomparedtothatwhichthispeaceaffords.Acalmseaafterastorm, a blue sky after a black thunder cloud—health after sickness—light afterdarkness—restaftertoil—all,allarebeautifulandpleasantthings.Butnone,noneofthemallcangivemorethanafeebleideaofthecomfortwhichthoseenjoywhohavebeen brought into the state of peace with God. It is "a peace which passes allunderstanding."(Phil.4:7.)

Itisthelackofthisverypeacewhichmakesmanyintheworldunhappy.Thousandshaveeverythingthatisthoughtabletogivepleasure,andyetareneversatisfied.Theirheartsarealwaysaching.Thereisaconstantsenseofemptinesswithin.Andwhatisthesecretofallthis?TheyhavenopeacewithGod.

It is the desire of this very peace which makes many a heathen do much in hisidolatrousreligion.Hundredsofthemhavebeenseentomortifytheirbodies,andvextheir own flesh in the service of somewretched imagewhich their own hands hadmade.Andwhy?BecausetheyhungeredafterpeacewithGod.

Itisthepossessionofthisverypeaceonwhichthevalueofaman'sreligiondepends.Without it there may be everything to please the eye, and gratify the ear—forms,ceremonies, services, and sacraments—and yet no gooddone to the soul. The grandquestionthatshouldtryall is thestateofaman'sconscience.Is itatpeace?HashepeacewithGod?

ThisistheverypeaceaboutwhichIaddresseveryreaderofthesepagesthisday.Haveyougotit?Doyoufeelit?Isityourown?

Ifyouhave it,youaretrulyrich.Youhavethatwhichwillendure forever.Youhavetreasurewhichyouwillnot losewhenyoudieand leave theworld.Youwill carry itwithyoubeyondthegrave.Youwillhaveitandenjoyittoalleternity.Silverandgoldyoumayhavenone.Thepraiseofmanyoumayneverenjoy.Butyouhavethatwhichisfarbetterthaneither,ifyouhavethepeaceofGod.

Ifyoudon'thavethispeacewithGod,youaretrulypoor.Youhavenothingwhichwilllast—nothingwhichwillwear—nothingwhichyou

cancarrywithyouwhenyourturncomestodie.Nakedyoucameintothisworld,and

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naked in every sense youwill go forth. Your bodymay be carried to the gravewithpomp and ceremony. A solemn service may be read over your coffin. A marblemonumentmaybeputupinyourhonor.Butafterallitwillbebutapauper'sfuneral,ifyoudiewithoutpeacewithGod.

II.Letmeshowyou,inthenextplace,theFOUNTAINfromwhichtruepeaceisdrawn.Thatfountainisjustification.

The peace of the true Christian is not a vague, dreamy feeling, without reason andwithout foundation.He can showcause for it.Hebuilds upon solid ground.HehaspeacewithGod,becauseheisjustified.Withoutjustificationit is impossibletohaverealpeacewithGod.Conscienceforbidsit.SinisamountainbetweenamanandGod,and must be taken away. The sense of guilt lies heavy on the heart, and must beremoved.Unpardonedsinwillmurderpeace.The trueChristianknowsall thiswell.Hispeacearises fromaconsciousnessofhissinsbeing forgiven,andhisguiltbeingput away.His house is not built on sandy ground.Hiswell is not a broken cistern,whichcanholdnowater.HehaspeacewithGod,becauseheisjustified.

He is justified,andhissinsareforgiven.Howevermany,andhowevergreat, theyarecleansedaway,pardoned,andwipedout.TheyareblottedoutofthebookofGod'sremembrance.Theyare sunk into thedepthsof the sea.Theyare castbehindGod'sback.Theyare searched for andnot found.They are rememberednomore.Thoughtheymay have been like scarlet, they are becomewhite as snow; though theymayhavebeenredlikecrimson,theyareaswool.Andsohehaspeace.

Heis justifiedandcountedrighteousinGod'ssight.TheFatherseesnospot inhim,andreckonshiminnocent.Heisclothedinarobeofperfectrighteousness,andmaysitdownbythesideofaholyGodwithoutfeelingashamed.TheholylawofGod,which touches the thoughts and intents ofmen's hearts, cannot condemnhim.Thedevil,"theaccuserof thebrethren,"can laynothingtohischarge, topreventhis fullacquittal.Andsohehaspeace.

Is he not naturallyapoor,weak,erring,defectivesinner? He is!None knowsthatbetterthanhedoeshimself.Butnotwithstandingthis,he isreckonedcomplete,perfect,andfaultlessbeforeGod,forheisjustified!

Is he not naturally a debtor? He is! None feels that more deeply than he doeshimself.He owes ten thousand talents, and has nothing of his own to pay. But hisdebtsareallpaid,settled,andcrossedoutforever,forheisjustified!

Ishenotnaturallyliabletothecurseofabrokenlaw?Heis!Nonewouldconfessthatmorereadilythanhewouldhimself.Butthedemandsofthelawhavebeenfullysatisfied—theclaimsofjusticehavebeenmettothelasttittle,andheisjustified!

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Does he not naturallydeservepunishment? He does! None would acknowledgethatmorefullythanhewouldhimself.Butthepunishmenthasbeenborne.ThewrathofGodagainstsinhasbeenmademanifest.Yethehasescaped,andisjustified!

Doesanyonewho is reading thispaperknowanythingofall this?Areyou justified?Doyoufeelasifyouwerepardoned,forgiven,andacceptedbeforeGod?CanyoudrawneartoHimwithboldness,andsay,"YouaremyFatherandmyFriend,andIamYourreconciled child"? Oh, believe me, you will never taste true peace until you arejustified!

Whereareyoursins?Aretheyremovedandtakenawayfromoffyoursoul?Havetheybeen reckoned for, and accounted for, in God's presence? Oh, be very sure thesequestions are of the most solemn importance! A peace of conscience not built onjustification,isaperilousdream.FromsuchafalsepeacetheLorddeliveryou!

Go withme in imagination to some of our great London hospitals. Stand with metherebythebedsideofsomepoorcreatureinthelaststageofanincurabledisease.Heliesquietperhaps,andmakesnostruggle.Hedoesnotcomplainofpainperhaps,anddoesnotappeartofeelit.Hesleeps,andisstill.Hiseyesareclosed.Hisheadreclinesonhispillow.Hesmilesfaintly,andmutterssomething.Heisdreamingofhome,andhismother,andhisyouth.Histhoughtsarefaraway.Butisthishealth?Oh,no—no!Itisonlytheeffectofopiates.Nothingcanbedoneforhim.Heisdyingdaily.Theonlyobjectistolessenhispain.Hisquietisanunnaturalquiet.Hissleepisanunhealthysleep.Youseeinthatman'scaseavividlikenessofpeacewithoutjustification.Itisahollow,deceptive,unhealthything.Itsendisdeath!

Gowithmeinimaginationtosomelunaticasylum.Letusvisitsomecaseofincurableinsanity.Weshallprobablyfindsomeonewhoimaginesthatheisrichandnoble,oraking.Seehowhewilltakethestrawfromofftheground,twistitroundhishead,andcall itacrown.Markhowhewillpickupstonesandgravel,andcall themdiamondsandpearls.Hearhowhewilllaugh,andsing,andappeartobehappyinhisdelusions.Butisthishappiness?Oh,no!Weknowitisonlytheresultofignorantinsanity.Yousee in that man's case another likeness of peace built on fancy, and not onjustification.Itisasenseless,baselessthing.Ithasneitherrootnorlife.

SettleitinyourmindthattherecanbenopeacewithGod,unlesswefeelthatwearejustified.Wemust knowwhat has become of our sins.Wemust have a reasonablehope that they are forgiven, and put away. We must have the witness of ourconsciencethatwearereckonednotguiltybeforeGod.WithoutthisitisvaintotalkofpeacewithGod.Wehavenothingbutthedeceptionandimitationofit."Thereisnopeace,saysmyGod,tothewicked."(Isa.57:21.)

Didyoueverhear the soundof the trumpetswhichareblownbefore the judges, as

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theycome intoacity toopentheCourts?Didyouever reflecthowdifferentare thefeelingswhichthesetrumpetsawakeninthemindsofdifferentpeople?Theinnocentman,whohasnocausetobetried,hearsthemunmoved.Theyproclaimnoterrorstohim.Helistensandlooksonquietly,and isnotafraid.Butoftenthere issomepoorwretch,waitinghistrialinasilentcell,towhomthosetrumpetsareaknellofdespair.Theywarnhimthatthedayoftrialisathand.Yetalittletimeandhewillstandatthebarof justice,andhearwitnessafterwitness telling thestoryofhismisdeeds.Yetalittletime,andallwillbeover—thetrial,theverdict,andthesentence—andtherewillremainnothingforhimbutpunishmentanddisgrace.Nowondertheprisoner'sheartbeatsquickly,whenhehearsthattrumpet'ssound!

Thereisadayfastcomingwhenallwhoarenotjustifiedshalldespairinlikemanner.ThevoiceofthearchangelandthetrumpetofGodshallscattertothewindsthefalsepeace which now buoys up many a soul. The day of judgment shall convincethousands of self-willed people too late, that it needs something more than a fewbeautifulideasabout"God'sloveandmercy,"toreconcileamantohisMaker,andtodeliverhisguiltysoulfromhell.Nohopeshallstandinthatsolemndaybutthehopeof the justifiedman.Nopeace shallprove solid, substantial, andunbroken—but thepeacewhichisbuiltonjustification.

Isthispeaceyourown?Restnot,restnot,ifyoulovelife,untilyouknowandfeelthatyou are a justifiedman. Think not that this is amerematter of names andwords.Flatter not yourself with the idea that justification is an "abstruse and difficultsubject,"andthatyoumaygettoheavenwellenoughwithoutknowinganythingaboutit.Makeupyourmind to thegreat truth that therecanbenoheavenwithoutpeacewithGod—andnopeacewithGodwithout justification.And thengive your soulnorestuntilyouareajustifiedman.

III.Letmeshowyou,inthethirdplace,theROCKfromwhichjustificationandpeacewithGodflow.ThatrockisChrist.ThetrueChristianisnotjustifiedbecauseofanygoodnessofhisown.Hispeaceisnottobetraceduptoanyworkthathehasdone. It is not purchased by his prayers and regularity, his repentance and hisamendment,hismoralityandhischarity.Alltheseareutterlyunabletojustifyhim.Inthemselvestheyaredefectiveinmanythingsandneedalargeforgiveness.Andastojustifyinghim,suchathingisnottobenamed.TriedbytheperfectstandardofGod'slaw the best of Christians is nothing better than a justified sinner, a pardonedcriminal. As tomerit,worthiness, desert, or claim uponGod'smercy—he has none.Peacebuiltonanysuchfoundationsastheseisutterlyworthless.Themanwhorestsuponthemismiserablydeceived.

NeverweretruerwordsputonpaperthanthosewhichRichardHookerpennedonthissubject 280 years ago. Let those who would like to know what English clergymen

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thoughtinoldentimes,markwellwhathesays."IfGodwouldmakeusanofferthuslarge—SearchallthegenerationsofpeoplesincethefallofyourfatherAdam,andfindoneman,whohasdoneanyoneaction,whichhaspast fromhimpure,withoutanystainorblemishatall—andforthatoneman'soneonlyaction,neithermannorangelshall find the torments which are prepared for both—do you think this ransom, todelivermanandangels,wouldbefoundamongthesonsofmen?Thebestthingswedohavesomethinginthemtobepardoned.Howthencanwedoanythingmeritoriousandworthy tobe rewarded?"To thesewords Idesireentirely to subscribe. IbelievethatnomancanbejustifiedbyhisworksbeforeGodintheslightestpossibledegree.Before man he may be justified—his works may evidence the reality of hisChristianity.BeforeGodhecannotbejustifiedbyanythingthathecando—hewillbealwaysdefective,always imperfect, always short-coming,always farbelow themark,solongashelives.Itisnotbyworksofhisownthatanyoneeverhaspeaceandisajustifiedman.

ButhowthenisatrueChristianjustified?Whatisthesecretofthatpeaceandsenseofpardonwhichheenjoys?HowcanweunderstandaHolyGoddealingwithasinfulman—aswithone innocent,andreckoninghimrighteousnotwithstandinghismanysins?

Theanswer toall thesequestions isshortandsimple.The trueChristian iscountedrighteousforthesakeofJesusChrist, theSonofGod.Heis justifiedbecauseofthedeath and atonement of Christ. He has peace because "Christ died for his sinsaccordingtotheScriptures."Thisisthekeythatunlocksthemightymystery.Herethegreatproblemissolved,howGodcanbejustandyetjustifytheungodly.ThelifeanddeathoftheLordJesusexplainall."Heisourpeace."(1Cor.15:3;Ephes.2:14.)

ChristhasstoodintheplaceofthetrueChristian.HehasbecomehisSuretyandhisSubstitute.Heundertooktobearallthatwastobeborne,andtodoallthatwastobedone—andwhatHeundertookHeperformed.Hence the trueChristian isa justifiedman.(Isaiah53:6.)

Christhassufferedforsins,the"justfortheunjust."HehasenduredourpunishmentinHisownbodyonthecross.HehasallowedthewrathofGod,whichwedeserved,tofallonHisownhead.HencethetrueChristianisajustifiedman.(1Pet.3:1.8.)

ChristhaspaidthedebttheChristianowed,byHisownblood.Hehasreckonedforit,anddischargedittotheuttermostfarthingbyHisowndeath.Godisa justGod,andwillnotrequirehisdebtstobepaidtwiceover.HencethetrueChristianisajustifiedman.(Acts20:28;1Pet1:18,19.)

ChristhasobeyedthelawofGodperfectly.Thedevil,thePrinceofthisworld,couldfindnofaultinHim.BysofulfillingitHebroughtinaneverlastingrighteousness,in

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which allHis people are clothed in the sight of God.Hence the true Christian is ajustifiedman.(Dan9:24;Rom10:4.)

Christ,inoneword,haslivedforthetrueChristian.Christhasdiedforhim.Christhasgonetothegraveforhim.Christhasrisenagainforhim.Christhasascendeduponhighforhim,andgoneintoheaventointercedeforhissoul.Christhasdoneall,paidall,sufferedallthatwasneedfulforhisredemption.HencearisesthetrueChristian'sjustification—hence his peace. In himself there is nothing but sin—but inChrist hehasallthingsthathissoulcanrequire.(Coloss.2:3;3:11)

Who can tell the blessedness of the exchange which takes place between the trueChristianandtheLordJesusChrist!Christ'srighteousness isplaceduponhim—andhissinsareplaceduponChrist.Christhasbeenreckonedasinner forhissake—andnowheisreckonedinnocentforChrist'ssake.Christhasbeencondemnedforhissakethoughtherewasnofault inHim—andnowheisacquittedforChrist'ssake,thoughhe is coveredwith sins, faults, and short-comings.Here iswisdom indeed!God cannowbejustandyetpardontheungodly.Mancanfeelthatheisasinner,andyethavea good hope of heaven and feel peace within.Who among us could have imaginedsuchathing?Whooughtnottoadmireitwhenhehearsit?(2Cor5:21.)

WereadinBritishhistoryofaLordNithsdalewhowassentencedtodeathforagreatpolitical crime. He was closely confined in prison after his trial. The day of hisexecutionwasfixed.Thereseemednochanceofescape.Andyetbeforethesentencewas carried into effect,he contrived to escape through the skill and affection of hiswife.Shevisitedhiminprison,andexchangedclotheswithhim.Dressedinhiswife'sclotheshewalkedoutofprisonandescaped,andneitherguardsnorkeepersdetectedhim,whilehiswiferemainedbehindinhisplace.Inshort,sheriskedherownlifetosavethe lifeofherhusband.Whowouldnotadmire theskillandthe loveofsuchawifeasthis?

ButwereadinGospelhistoryofadisplayoflove,comparedtowhichtheloveofLadyNithsdale isnothing.We readof Jesus, theSonofGod, comingdown to aworldofsinners, who neither cared for Him before He came, nor honored Him when Heappeared. We read of Him going down to the prison-house, and submitting to bebound,thatwethepoorprisonersmightbeabletogofree.WereadofHimbecomingobedienttodeath—andthatthedeathofthecross, thatwetheunworthychildrenofAdammighthaveadooropenedtolifeeverlasting.WereadofHimbeingcontenttobearoursinsandcarryourtransgressions,thatwemightwearHisrighteousness,andwalkinthelightandlibertyoftheSonsofGod.(Phil.2:8.)

Thismaywell be called a "love that passes knowledge!" In noway could free graceeverhaveshonesobrightlyasinthewayofjustificationbyChrist.(Ephes.3:19.)

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ThisistheoldwaybywhichalonethechildrenofAdam,whohavebeenjustifiedfromthebeginningoftheworld,havefoundtheirpeace.FromAbeldownwards,nomanorwomanhas everhadonedropofmercy—except throughChrist. ToHim every altarthatwasraisedbeforethetimeofMoseswasintendedtopoint.ToHimeverysacrificeandordinanceoftheJewishlawwasmeanttodirectthechildrenofIsrael.OfHimalltheprophetstestified.Inaword,ifyoulosesightofjustificationbyChrist,alargepartoftheOldTestamentScripturewillbecomeanunmeaningtangledmaze.

This, above all, is the way of justification which exactly meets the needs andrequirements of humannature. There is a conscience left inman, although he is afallenbeing.Thereisadimsenseofhisownneed,which ithisbettermomentswillmakeitselfheard,andwhichnothingbutChristcansatisfy.Solongashisconscienceisnothungry,anyreligioustoywillsatisfyaman'ssoulandkeephimquiet.Butoncelethisconsciencebecomehungry,andnothingwillquiethimbutrealspiritualfood—nofoodbutChrist.

There is something within a man when his conscience is really awake, whichwhispers,"Theremustbeapricepaidformysoul—ornopeace."AtoncetheGospelmeetshimwithChrist.Christhas alreadypaid a ransom for his redemption.ChristhasgivenHimselfforhim.Christhasredeemedhimfromthecurseofthelaw,beingmadeacurseforhim.(Gal.2:20;3:13.)

There is something within a man, when his conscience is really awake, whichwhispers,"Imusthavesomerighteousnessortitle toheaven—ornopeace."AtoncetheGospelmeetshimwithChrist.Hehasbroughtinaneverlastingrighteousness.Heistheendofthelawforrighteousness.HisnameiscalledtheLordourrighteousness.God hasmadeHim to be sin for us who knew no sin, that wemight bemade therighteousnessofGodinHim.(2Cor.5:21;Rom.10:4;Jer.23:6.)

There is something within a man, when his conscience is really awake, whichwhispers,"Theremustbepunishmentandsufferingbecauseofmysins—ornopeace."AtoncetheGospelmeetshimwithChrist.Christhassufferedforsin,thejustfortheunjust, tobringhim toGod.He bore our sins inHis own body on the tree. ByHisstripeswearehealed.(1Peter2:24;3:18.)

There is something within a man, when his conscience is really awake, whichwhispers,"Imusthaveapriestformysoul—ornopeace."AtoncetheGospelmeetshimwithChrist.ChristissealedandappointedbyGodtheFathertobetheMediatorbetween Himself and man. He is the ordained Advocate for sinners. He is theaccredited Counselor and Physician of sick souls. He is the great High Priest, theAlmightyAbsolver, theGraciousConfessorofheavy-ladensinners. (1Tim.2:5;Heb.8:1.)

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IknowtherearethousandsofprofessingChristianswhoseenopeculiarbeautyinthisdoctrineof justificationbyChrist.Theirheartsareburied inthethingsof theworld.Their consciences are palsied, benumbed, and speechless. But whenever a man'sconsciencebeginsreallytofeelandspeak,hewillseesomethinginChrist'satonementandpriestlyofficewhichheneversawbefore.Lightdoesnotsuit theeyenormusictheear,moreperfectlythanChristsuitstherealneedsofasinfulsoul.HundredscantestifythattheexperienceofaconvertedheathenintheislandofRaiateaintheSouthPacificOcean has been exactly their own. "I saw," he said, "an immensemountain,with precipitous sides, upwhich I endeavored to climb—but when I had attained aconsiderableheight,I lostmyholdandfelltothebottom.Exhaustedwithperplexityand fatigue, Iwent to adistance and sat down toweep, andwhileweeping, I sawadrop of blood fall upon thatmountain, and in amoment it was dissolved."Hewasaskedtoexplainwhatallthismeant."Thatmountain,"hesaid,"wasmysins,andthatdropwhich fell upon it, was one drop of the precious blood of Jesus, bywhich themountainofmyguiltwasmeltedaway."[William'sSouthSeaMissions.]

Thisistheonetruewayofpeace—justificationbyChrist.BewarelestanyturnyououtofthiswayandleadyouintoanyofthefalsedoctrinesoftheChurchofRome.Alas,itisamazingtoseehowthatfalseChurchhasbuiltahouseoferrornearbythehouseoftruth!HoldfastthetruthofGodaboutjustification,andbenotdeceived.Listennottoanythingyoumayhearaboutothermediatorsandhelperstopeace.Remember thereisnomediatorbut one—JesusChrist. Remember there is nopurgatory for sinnersbut one—the blood of Christ. Remember there is no sacrifice for sin but one—thesacrifice once made on the cross. Remember there are no works that can meritanything—buttheworkofChrist.Rememberthereisnopriestwhocantrulyabsolve—butChrist.Standfasthere,andbeonyourguard.GivenotthegloryduetoChrist,toanother.

WhatdoyouknowofChrist?IdoubtnotyouhaveheardofHimbythehearingoftheear,andrepeatedHisnameinacreed.Youareacquaintedperhapswith thestoryofHislifeanddeath.ButwhatexperimentalknowledgehaveyouofHim?WhatpracticalusedoyoumakeofHim?Whatdealings and transactionshave therebeenbetweenyoursoulandHim?

Oh, believe me, there is no peace with God except through Christ! Peace is Hispeculiargift.PeaceisthatlegacywhichHealonehadpowertoleavebehindHimwhenHe left the world. All other peace beside this, is a mockery and a delusion. Whenhunger can be relieved without food, and thirst quenched without drink, andweariness removed without rest—then, and not until then, will people find peacewithoutChrist.

Now,isthispeaceyourown?BoughtbyChristwithHisownblood,offeredbyChristfreely toallwhoarewilling to receive it—is thispeaceyourown?Oh, restnot—rest

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notuntilyoucangiveasatisfactoryanswertomyquestion,haveyoutruepeacewithGod?

IV.Let me show you, in the last place, theHAND bywhich the privilege ofpeaceisreceived—faith.

Iaskthespecialattentionofallwhoreadthesepagestothispartofoursubject.Thereis scarcely any point in Christianity so important as the means by which Christ,justification,andpeace,becomethepropertyofaman'ssoul.Many,Ifear,wouldgowithme so far as I have gone in this paper—but would part company here. Let usendeavortolayholdfirmlyonthetruth.

ThemeansbywhichamanobtainsaninterestinChristandallHisbenefitsissimplefaith.There isbutone thingneedful inorder tobe justifiedbyHisblood, andhavepeacewithGod.Thatone thing is tobelieveonHim.This is thepeculiarmarkof atrueChristian.Hebelieveson theLordJesus forhissalvation. "Believeon theLordJesusChristandyoushallbesaved.""WhoeverbelievesinHimshallnotperish—buthaveeternallife."(Acts16:31;John3:16.)

Withoutthis faith it is impossibletobesaved.Amanmaybemoral, amiable,good-natured,andrespectable.ButifhedoesnotbelieveonChrist,hehasnopardon,nojustification,notitletoheaven."Hewhobelievesnot,iscondemnedalready.""HewhobelievesnottheSonshallnotseelife—butthewrathofGodabidesonhim.""Hewhobelievesnot,shallbedamned."(John3:18,36;Mark16:16.)

Beside this faith nothing whatever is needed for a man'sjustification.Beyonddoubt,repentance,holiness,love,humility,prayerfulness—willalwaysbeseeninthejustifiedman.ButtheydonotinthesmallestdegreejustifyhiminthesightofGod.NothingjoinsamantoChrist—nothingjustifies—butsimplefaith."Tohimwhoworksnot—butbelievesonHimwho justifies theungodly,his faith iscountedforrighteousness.""Weconcludethatamanisjustifiedbyfaithwithoutthedeedsofthelaw."(Rom.4:5;3:28.)

Havingthis faith,aman isatoncecompletely justified.His sins are at onceremoved.His iniquities are at once put away. The very hour that he believes he isreckonedbyGodentirelypardoned,forgiven,andarighteousman.Hisjustificationisnot a future privilege, to be obtained after a long time and great pains. It is animmediate present possession. Jesus says, "Hewho believes onMe has everlastinglife."Paulsays,"ByHimallwhobelievearejustifiedfromallthings."(John6:47;Acts13:39.)

I needhardly say that it is of theutmost importance tohave clear views about the

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nature of trueSAVINGFAITH. It is constantly spoken of as the distinguishingcharacteristicofNewTestamentChristians.Theyarecalled"believers."InthesingleGospelofJohn,"believing" ismentionedeightyorninety times.There ishardlyanysubjectaboutwhichsomanymistakesaremade.Thereisnoneaboutwhichmistakesaresoinjurioustothesoul.Thedarknessofmanyasincereinquirermaybetraceduptoconfusedviewsaboutfaith.Letustrytogetadistinctideaofitsrealnature.

Truesavingfaithisnotthepossessionofeverybody.Theopinionthatallwhoare called Christians are, as a matter of course, believers, is a most mischievousdelusion.Amanmaybebaptized,likeSimonMagus,andyethave"nopartorlot" inChrist.ThevisibleChurchcontainsunbelieversaswellasbelievers."Allpeoplehavenotfaith."(2Thess.3:2.)

Truesavingfaithisnotamerematteroffeeling.Amanmayhavemanygoodfeelings and desires in his mind towards Christ, and yet they may all prove astemporaryandshort-livedasthemorningcloudandtheearlydew.Manyarelikethestony-ground hearers, and "receive the word with joy." Many will say undermomentary excitement, "I will follow You wherever You go," and yet return to theworld.(Matt.8:19;13:20.)

TruesavingfaithisnotabareassentoftheintellecttothefactthatChristdied forsinners.This is not a jot better than the faith of devils. They knowwhoJesusis."Theybelieve,"andtheydomore,"theytremble."(James2:19.)

True saving faith isanact of thewhole innerman.It is an act of the head,heart,andwill,allunitedandcombined.Itisanactofthesoul,inwhich—seeinghisownguilt,danger,andhopelessness—andseeingat the same timeChristoffering tosavehim—amanventuresonChrist—fleestoChrist—receivesChristashisonlyhope,andbecomesawillingdependantonHimforsalvation.Itisanactwhichbecomesatonce theparentofahabit.Hewhohas itmaynotalwaysbe equally sensibleofhisownfaith;butinthemainhelivesbyfaith,andwalksbyfaith.

Truefaithhasnothingwhateverofmeritaboutit,andinthehighestsensecannotbecalled"awork." It is but laying hold of a Savior's hand, leaning on ahusband's arm, and receiving a physician's medicine. It brings with it nothing toChrist, but a sinfulman's soul. It gives nothing, contributes nothing, pays nothing,performsnothing. Itonly receives, takes,accepts,grasps, and embraces the gloriousgiftofjustificationwhichChristbestows,andbyreneweddailyactsenjoysthatgift.

OfallChristiangraces,faithisthemostimportant.Ofall,itisthesimplestinreality. Of all, it is the most difficult to make people understand in practice. Themistakes intowhichpeople fall about it are endless. Somewhohaveno faithneverdoubtforamomentthattheyarebelievers.Others,whohaverealfaith,canneverbe

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persuadedthattheyarebelieversatall.Butnearlyeverymistakeaboutfaithmaybetraceduptotheoldrootofnaturalpride.Peoplewillpersistinstickingtotheideathatthey are to pay something of their own in order to be saved. As to a faith whichconsists in receiving only, and paying nothing at all, it seems as if they could notunderstandit.

Savingfaithisthehandofthesoul.Thesinnerislikeadrowningmanatthepointofsinking.He sees theLordJesusChrist holding out help to him.He grasps it and issaved.Thisisfaith.(Heb.6:18.)

Savingfaithistheeyeofthesoul.Thesinner is like theIsraelitebittenby the fieryserpentinthewilderness,andatthepointofdeath.TheLordJesusChristisofferedtohimas thebrazen serpent, setup forhis cure.He looksand ishealed.This is faith.(John3:14,15.)

Savingfaithisthemouthofthesoul.Thesinnerisstarvingforlackoffood,andsickofaseveredisease.TheLordJesusChristissetbeforehimasthebreadoflife,andtheuniversalmedicine.He receives it, and ismadewell and strong.This is faith. (John6:35.)

Savingfaithisthefootofthesoul.Thesinnerispursuedbyadeadlyenemy,andisinfearofbeingovertaken.TheLordJesusChrist isputbeforehimasastrongtower,ahidingplace,andarefuge.Herunsintoitandissafe.Thisisfaith.(Prov.18:10.)

Ifyoulovelifeclingwithafastholdtothedoctrineofjustificationbyfaith.Ifyouloveinwardpeace,letyourviewsoffaithbeverysimple.HonoreverypartoftheChristianreligion. Contend to the death for the necessity of holiness. Use diligently andreverentlyeveryappointedmeansofgrace—butdonotgivetothesethingstheofficeof justifying your soul in the slightest degree. If you would have peace, and keeppeace,rememberthatfaithalone,justifies,andthatnotasameritoriouswork—butastheactthatjoinsthesoultoChrist.Believeme,thecrownandgloryoftheGospelisjustificationbyfaith,withoutthedeedsofthelaw.

Nodoctrinecanbeimaginedsobeautifullysimpleasjustificationbyfaith.Itisnotadarkmysterioustruth,intelligibletononebutthegreat,therich,andthelearned.Itplaceseternallifewithinthereachofthemostunlearned;andthepoorestintheland.ItmustbeofGod.

NodoctrinecanbeimaginedsoglorifyingtoGod.IthonorsallHisattributes,Hisjustice,mercy,andholiness.Itgivesthewholecreditof thesinner'ssalvationtotheSaviorHehasappointed.IthonorstheSon,andsohonorstheFatherwhosentHim.(John5:25.)Itgivesmannopartnershipinhisredemption—butmakessalvationtobewhollyoftheLord.ItmustbeofGod.

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No doctrine can be imagined so calculated to putman in his right place. Itshowshimhisownsinfulness,andweakness,andinabilitytosavehissoulbyhisownworks. It leaveshimwithoutexcuse ifhe isnot savedat last. Itoffers tohimpeaceandpardon"withoutmoneyandwithoutprice."ItmustbeofGod.(Isa.55:1.)

Nodoctrine canbe imagined socomforting toabrokenheartedandpenitentsinner.Itbringstosuchanonegladtidings.Itshowshimthatthereishopeevenforhim.Ittellshim,thoughheisagreatsinner,thereisreadyforhimagreatSavior;andthoughhecannotjustifyhimself,GodcanandwilljustifyhimforthesakeofChrist.ItmustbeofGod.

NodoctrinecanbeimaginedsosatisfyingtoatrueChristian.Itsupplieshimwithasolid ground of comfort—the finished work of Christ. If anything was left for theChristiantodo,wherewouldhiscomfortbe?Hewouldneverknowthathehaddoneenough,andwasreallysafe.ButthedoctrinethatChristundertakesall,andthatwehaveonlytobelieveandreceivepeace,meetseveryfear.ItmustbeofGod.

Nodoctrinecanbeimaginedsosanctifying. Itdrawspeoplebythestrongestofallcords—thecordoflove.Itmakesthemfeeltheyaredebtors,andingratitudeboundtolovemuch,whenmuchhasbeen forgiven.Preachingupworksneverproduces suchfruit—as preaching them down. Exalting man's goodness and merits never makespeople soholyasexaltingChrist. The fiercest lunatics atParis becamegentle,mild,andobedient,whenAbbePinelgavethemlibertyandhope.ThefreegraceofChristwillproducefargreatereffectsonmen'slivesthanthesternestcommandsoflaw.SurelythedoctrinemustbeofGod.

Nodoctrinecanbeimaginedsostrengtheningtothehandsofaminister.Itenableshimtocometothevilestofpeople,andsay,"Thereisadoorofhopeevenforyou!"Itenables him to feel, "While life lasts there are no incurable cases among the soulsundermy charge."Many aminister by the use of this doctrine can say of souls, "Ifound them in the state ofnature. I beheld them pass into the state of grace. Iwatchedthemmovingintothestateofglory."TrulythisdoctrinemustbeofGod.

No doctrine can be imagined thatwears sowell. It suits people when they firstbegin, like thePhilippian jailer, crying, "What shall I do tobe saved?" It suits themwhentheyfightintheforefrontofthebattle.LiketheapostlePaul,theysay,"ThelifethatIlive,IlivebythefaithoftheSonofGod."(Gal.2:20.)Itsuitsthemwhentheydie,asitdidStephenwhenhecried,"LordJesus,receivemyspirit."(Acts7:59.)Yes—manyaonehasopposedthedoctrinefiercelywhilehelived,andyetonhisdeath-bedhas gladly embraced justification by faith, and departed saying that "he trusted innothingbutChrist."ItmustbeofGod.

Haveyouthisfaith?Doyouknowanythingofsimplechild-likeconfidenceinJesus?

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Doyouknowwhatitistorestyoursoul'shopeswhollyonChrist?Oh,rememberthatwhere there is no faith, there is no saving interest in Christ. Where there is nosavinginterestinChrist,thereisnojustification.Wherethereisnojustification,there can be no peace with God.Where there is nopeacewithGod, there is noheaven!Andwhatthen?Thereremainsnothingbuthell.

And now, let me commend the solemn matters we have been considering to theserious and prayerful attention of all who read this paper. I invite you to begin bymeditatingcalmlyonpeacewithGod—onjustification—onChrist—onfaith.Thesearenotmere speculative subjects, fit fornonebut retired students.They lie at the veryroots of Christianity. They are bound up with life eternal. Bear with me for a fewmoments,whileIaddafewwordsinordertobringthemhomemorecloselytoyourheartandconscience.

1. Let me, then, for one thing, request every reader of this paper to put a plainQUESTIONtohimself.

HaveyoupeacewithGod?Youhaveheardofit.Youhavereadofit.Youknowthereissuchathing.Youknowwhereitistobefound.Butdoyoupossessityourself?Isityetyourown?Oh,dealhonestlywithyourself,anddonotevademyquestion!HaveyoupeacewithGod?

Idonotaskwhetheryouthink itanexcellent thing,andhope toprocure itatsomefuture timebefore youdie. Iwant to knowabout your statenow.Today,while it iscalledtoday,Iaskyoutodealhonestlywithmyquestion.HaveyoupeacewithGod?

Donot,Ibeseechyou,allowanypubliceventstomakeyouputofftheconsiderationofyourownspiritualwelfare.Thewarsandcontentionsofnationswillnevercease.Thestrifeofpoliticalpartieswillneverend.Butafterall,ahundredyearshencetheseverythingswillseemoflittleimportancetoyou.ThequestionIamaskingwillseemathousandtimesmoreimportant.Youmaypossiblybesayingthen,toolate,"Oh,thatIhadthoughtmoreaboutpeacewithGod!"

May the question ring in your ears, and never leave you until you can give it asatisfactoryanswer!MaytheSpiritofGodsoapply it toyourheart thatyoumaybeable to say boldly, before you die, "Being justified by faith, I have peace with GodthroughJesusChristourLord!"

2.Inthenextplace,letmeofferasolemnWARNINGtoeveryreaderofthispaperwhoknowsthathehasnotpeacewithGod.

You have not peace with God! Consider for a moment how fearfully great is yourdanger!YouandGodarenotfriends.ThewrathofGodabidesonyou.Godisangrywith you every day. Your ways, your words, your thoughts, your actions, are a

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continual offence toHim. They are all unpardoned and unforgiven. They cover youfrom head to foot. They provokeHim every day to cut you off. The sword that therevelerofoldsawhangingoverhisheadbyasinglehair,isbutafaintemblemofthedangerofyoursoul.Thereisbutastepbetweenyouandhell.

You have not peace with God! Consider for a moment how fearfully great is yourfolly!TheresitsattherighthandofGodamightySaviorableandwillingtogiveyoupeace,andyoudonot seekHim.For ten, twenty, thirty, andperhaps fortyyearsHehascalledtoyou,andyouhaverefusedHiscounsel.Hehascried,"CometoMe,"andyou have practically replied, "I will not." He has said, "My ways are ways ofpleasantness,"andyouhaveconstantlysaid,"Ilikemyownsinfulwaysfarbetter."

Andafterall,forwhathaveyourefusedChrist?Forworldlyriches,whichcannotheala broken heart; for worldly business, which you must one day leave; for worldlypleasures,whichdonot really satisfy; for these things, and such as these, youhaverefusedChrist!Isthiswisdom!isthisfairness,isthiskindnesstoyoursoul?

I do beseech you to consider yourways. Imourn over your present condition withespecial sorrow. I grieve to think how many are within a hair's breadth of somecrushingaffliction,andyetutterlyunpreparedtomeetit.GladlywouldIdrawneartoeveryone,andcryinhisear,"SeekChrist!SeekChrist,thatyoumayhavepeacewithinandapresenthelpintrouble."GladlywouldIpersuadeeveryanxiousparentandwifeandchildtobecomeacquaintedwithHim,whoisabrotherbornforadversity,andthePrinceofpeace—afriendwhoneverfailsnorforsakes,andahusbandwhoneverdies.

3. Let me, in the next place, offeran affectionate ENTREATY to all who wantpeaceandknownotwheretofindit.

Youwantpeace!Thenseek itwithoutdelay fromHimwhoalone isable togive it—ChristJesus theLord.Go toHim inhumbleprayer, and askHim to fulfillHis ownpromisesandlookgraciouslyonyoursoul.TellHimyouhavereadHiscompassionateinvitation to the "laboringandheavy-laden."TellHim that this is theplightof yoursoul,andimploreHimtogiveyourest.Dothis,anddoitwithoutdelay.

SeekChristHimself,anddonotstopshortofpersonaldealingswithHim.Restnotinregular attendance on Christ's ordinances. Be not content with becoming acommunicant, and receiving theLord's supper.Thinknot to find solidpeace in thisway.Youmust see theKing's face, andbe touchedby thegolden scepter.YoumustspeaktothePhysician,andopenyourwholecasetoHim.Youmustbeclosetedwiththe Advocate, and keep nothing back from Him. Oh, remember this! Many areshipwrecked just outside theharbor.They stop short inmeans andordinances, andnevergocompletelytoChrist."Whoeverdrinksofthiswatershallthirstagain."(John4:13.)Christalonecansatisfythesoul.

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SeekChrist,andwaitfornothing.Waitnotuntilyoufeelyouhaverepentedenough.Waitnotuntilyourknowledgeisincreased.Waitnotuntilyouhavebeensufficientlyhumbledbecauseofyoursins.Waitnotuntilyouhavenoraveledtangleofdoubtsanddarknessandunbeliefalloveryourheart.SeekChristjustasyouare.YouwillneverbebetterbykeepingawayfromHim.FromthebottomofmyheartIsubscribetooldTraill'sopinion,"ItisimpossiblethatpeopleshouldbelieveinChristtoosoon."Alas,itisnothumility—butprideandignorancethatmakesomanyanxioussoulshangbackfromclosingwithJesus.They forget that themoresickaman is, themoreneedhehas of the physician. The more bad a man feels his heart, the more readily andspeedilyoughthetofleetoChrist.

SeekChrist,anddonotfancyyoumustsitstill.LetnotSatantemptyoutosupposethatyoumustwaitinastateofpassiveinaction,andnotstrivetolayholduponJesus.HowyoucanlayholduponHimIdonotpretendtoexplain.ButIamcertainthatitisbettertostruggletowardsChristandstrivetolayhold,thantositstillwithourarmsfoldedinsinandunbelief.Better

4. Letme, in the next place, offer someENCOURAGEMENT to those who havegoodreasontohopetheyhavepeacewithGod—butaretroubledbydoubtsandfears.

Youhavedoubtsandfears!Butwhatdoyouexpect?Whatwouldyouhave?Yoursoulismarried to a body full ofweakness, passions, and infirmities. You live in aworldthatliesinwickedness,aworldinwhichthegreatmajoritydonotloveChrist.Youareconstantlyliabletothetemptationsof thedevil.Thatbusyenemy, ifhecannotshutyououtofheaven,willtryhardtomakeyourjourneyuncomfortable.Surelyallthesethingsoughttobeconsidered.

Isaytoeverybeliever,thatsofarfrombeingsurprisedthatyouhavedoubtsandfears;Iwouldsuspect therealityofyourpeace ifyouhadnone. I think littleof thatgracewhichisaccompaniedbynoinwardconflict.Thereisseldomlifeintheheartwhenallisstill,quiet,andinonewayofthinking.Believeme,atrueChristianmaybeknownbyhiswarfareaswellasbyhispeace.Theseverydoubtsandfearswhichnowdistressyouaretokensofgood.Theysatisfymethatyouhavereallygotsomethingwhichyouareafraidtolose.

BewarethatyoudonothelpSatanbybecominganunjustaccuserofyourself,andanunbeliever in the reality of God's work of grace. I advise you to pray for moreknowledgeofyourownheart,ofthefullnessofJesus,andofthedevicesofthedevil.Letdoubtsandfearsdriveyoutothethroneofgrace,stiryouuptomoreprayer,sendyoumorefrequentlytoChrist.Butdonotletdoubtsandfearsrobyouofyourpeace.Believeme,youmustbecontenttogotoheavenasasinnersavedbygrace.Andyoumustnotbesurprised to finddailyproof thatyoureallyareasinner so longasyoulive.

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5.Letme,inthelastplace,offersomecounseltoallwhohavepeacewithGod,anddesiretokeepupalivelysenseofit.

It must never be forgotten that a believer's sense of his own justification andacceptancewithGod admits ofmanydegrees and variations. At one time itmay bebrightandclear;atanotherdullanddim.Atonetimeitmaybehighandfull,likethefloodtide;atanother low, like theebb.Ourjustificationisafixed,changeless,immovablething.Butoursenseofjustificationisliabletomanychanges.

What thenare thebestmeansofpreserving inabeliever'sheart that lively senseofjustification which is so precious to the soul that knows it? I offer a few hints tobelievers. I lay no claim to infallibility in setting down these hints, for I am only aman.ButsuchastheyareIofferthem.

(a)Tokeepupalivelysenseofpeace,theremustbeconstantlookingtoJesus.Asthepilotkeepshiseyeonthemarkbywhichhesteers,somustwekeepoureyeonChrist.

(b)Theremustbe constantcommunionwith Jesus.Wemust useHimdaily as oursoul's Physician, andHigh Priest. Theremust be daily conference, daily confession,anddailyabsolution.

(c)Theremustbe constantwatchfulnessagainst the enemies of your soul.Hewhowouldhavepeacemustbealwayspreparedforwar.

(d)Theremustbeconstantfollowingafterholinessineveryrelationoflife—inourtempers,inourtongues,abroadandathome.Asmallspeckonthelensofatelescopeisenoughtopreventourseeingdistantobjectsclearly.Alittledustwillsoonmakeawatchgoincorrectly.

(e)Theremustbeaconstantlaboringafterhumility.Pridegoesbeforeafall.Self-confidenceisoftenthemotherofsloth,ofhurriedBible-reading,andsleepyprayers.PeterfirstsaidhewouldneverforsakehisLord,thoughallothersdid—thenhesleptwhen he should have prayed—then he denied Him three times, and only foundwisdomafterbitterweeping.

(f)TheremustbeconstantboldnessinconfessingourLordbeforepeople.ThosewhohonorChrist,ChristwillhonorwithmuchofHiscompany.When thedisciplesforsookourLordtheywerewretchedandmiserable.WhentheyconfessedHimbeforethecouncil,theywerefilledwithjoyandtheHolySpirit.

(g)Theremustbeconstantdiligenceaboutmeansofgrace.HerearethewaysinwhichJesus loves towalk.Nodisciplemust expect to seemuchofhisMaster,whodoesnotdelightinpublicworship,Bible-reading,andprivateprayer.

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(h)Lastly,theremustbeconstantjealousyoverourownsouls,andfrequentself-examination. We must be careful to distinguish between justification andsanctification.WemustbewarethatwedonotmakeaChristofholiness.

Ilaythesehintsbeforeallbelievingreaders.Imighteasilyaddtothem.ButIamsuretheyareamong the first things tobeattended toby trueChristianbelievers, if theywishtokeepupalivelysenseoftheirownjustificationandacceptancewithGod.

Iconcludeallbyexpressingmyheart'sdesireandprayerthatallwhoreadthesepagesmayknowwhatitistohavethepeaceofGodwhichpassesallunderstandingintheirsouls.

Ifyouneverhad"peace"yet,mayitberecordedinthebookofGodthatthisyearyousoughtpeaceinChristandfoundit!

Ifyouhavetasted"peace"already—mayyoursenseofpeacemightilyincrease!

TheCrossofChrist

"Far be it fromme to boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, throughwhichtheworldhasbeencrucifiedtome,andItotheworld."Galatians6:14

WhatdowethinkandfeelaboutthecrossofChrist?WeliveinaChristianland.WeprobablyattendtheworshipofaChristianchurch.Wehave,mostofus,beenbaptizedinthenameofChrist.WeprofessandcallourselvesChristians.All this iswell—it ismorethancanbesaidofmillionsintheworld.ButwhatdowethinkandfeelaboutthecrossofChrist?

IwanttoexaminewhatoneofthegreatestChristianswhoeverlived,thoughtofthecrossofChrist.Hehaswrittendownhisopinion—hehasgivenhisjudgmentinwordsthat cannotbemistaken.Theman Imean is theApostlePaul.Theplacewhereyouwillfindhisopinion,isintheletterwhichtheHolySpiritinspiredhimtowritetotheGalatians.Thewordsinwhichhisjudgmentissetdown,arethese,"Butfarbeitfrommetoboast,exceptinthecrossofourLordJesusChrist."

NowwhatdidPaulmeanbysayingthis?Hemeanttodeclarestrongly,thathetrustedinnothingbut"JesusChristcrucified"forthepardonofhissinsandthesalvationofhissoul.Letothers,iftheywould,lookelsewhereforsalvation;letothers,iftheyweresodisposed, trust inother things forpardonandpeace—forhispart theapostlewasdetermined to rest on nothing, lean on nothing, build his hope on nothing, place

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confidenceinnothing,boastinnothing,"exceptinthecrossofJesusChrist."

Iwishtosaysomethingabout"thecross"tothereadersof thisvolume.Believeme,thesubjectisoneofthedeepestimportance.Thisisnomerequestionofcontroversy.It is not one of those points on which people may agree to differ, and feel thatdifferenceswillnotshutthemoutofheaven.Amanmustberightonthissubject,orhe is lost forever. Heaven or hell, happiness or misery, life or death, blessing orcursinginthelastday—allhingesontheanswertothisquestion,"WhatdoyouthinkaboutthecrossofChrist?"

I.Letmeshowyou,firstofall,whattheApostlePauldidNOTboastin.

TherearemanythingsthatPaulmighthaveboastedin,ifhehadthoughtassomedointhisday.Ifevertherewasoneonearthwhohadsomethingtoboastofinhimself,thatmanwasthegreatapostleoftheGentiles.Nowifhedidnotdaretoboast,whoshall?

Heneverboastedinhisnationalprivileges.HewasaJewbybirth,and,ashetellsushimself,"AHebrewoftheHebrews."(Phil.3:5.)Hemighthavesaid,likemanyofhis brethren, "I have Abraham for my forefather I am not a dark unenlightenedheathen;IamoneofthefavoredpeopleofGod—IhavebeenadmittedintocovenantwithGodbycircumcision.Iamafarbettermanthanthe ignorantGentiles."Butheneversaidso.Heneverboastedinanythingofthiskind.Never,foronemoment!

Heneverboastedinhisownworks.NoneeverworkedsohardforGodashedid.Hewas"moreabundantinlabors"thananyoftheapostles.(2Cor.11:23.)Nomaneverpreached so much, traveled so much, and endured so many hardships for Christ'scause.Nonewasevermadethemeansofconvertingsomanysouls,didsomuchgoodtotheworld,andmadehimselfsousefultomankind.NoFatheroftheearlyChurch,noReformer,noPuritan,noMissionary,nominister,nolayman—noonemancouldeverbenamed,whodidsomanygoodworksastheApostlePaul.Butdidheeverboastin them, as if they were in the least meritorious, and could save his soul? Never!Neverforonemoment!

Heneverboastedinhisknowledge.Hewasamanofgreatgiftsnaturally,and,afterhe was converted, the Holy Spirit gave him greater gifts still. He was a mightypreacher,andamightyspeaker,andaweightywriter.Hewasasgreatwithhispenashe was with his tongue. He could reason equally well with Jews and Gentiles. Hecould argue with infidels at Corinth, or Pharisees at Jerusalem, or self-righteouspeople inGalatia.Heknewmanydeepthings.Hehadbeen in thethirdheaven,and"heardunspeakablewords."(2Cor.12:4.)Hehadreceivedthespiritofprophecy,andcouldforetellthingsyettocome.Butdidheeverboastinhisknowledge,asifitcould

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justifyhimbeforeGod?Never—never!Neverforonemoment!

Heneverboastedinhisgraces.Ifevertherewasonewhoaboundedingraces,thatmanwasPaul.Hewasfulloflove.Howtenderlyandaffectionatelyheusedtowrite!Hecouldfeelforsouls likeamotheroranursefeelingforherchild.Hewasaboldman.Hecarednotwhomheopposedwhentruthwasatstake.Hecarednotwhatrisksheranwhensoulsweretobewon.Hewasaself-denyingman—inhungerandthirstoften, incoldandnakedness, inwatchingsandfastings.Hewasahumbleman.Hethought himself less than the least of all saints, and the chief of sinners.Hewas aprayerfulman.Seehow it comesoutat thebeginningofallhisEpistles.Hewasathankfulman.His thanksgivingsandhisprayerswalkedsidebyside.Butheneverboastedinallthis,nevervaluedhimselfonit—neverrestedhissoul'shopesonit.Oh,no—neverforamoment!

HeneverboastedinhisChurchmanship.IfevertherewasagoodChurchman,thatmanwasPaul.Hewashimselfachosenapostle.Hewasafounderofchurches,andanordainer of ministers—Timothy and Titus, and many elders, received their firstcommissionfromhishands.Hewasthebeginnerofservicesandsacramentsinmanyadarkplace.Manyanonedidhebaptize;manyanonedidhe receive to the Lord'sTable;manyameeting forprayer,andpraise,andpreaching,didhebeginandcarryon.HewasthesetterupofdisciplineinmanyayoungChurch.Whateverordinances,andrules,andceremonieswereobservedinmanyChurches,werefirstrecommendedbyhim.ButdidheeverboastinhisofficeandChurchstanding?DoesheeverspeakasifhisChurchmanshipwouldsavehim, justifyhim,putawayhissins,andmakehimacceptablebeforeGod?Oh,no!Never—never!Neverforamoment!

Now if the apostle Paul never boasted in any of these things, who in all theworld,fromone end to the other—whohas any right to boast in them in our day? If Paulsaid,"GodforbidthatIshouldboastinanythingwhateverexceptthecross,"whoshalldaretosay,"Ihavesomethingtoboastof—IamabettermanthanPaul"?

Whoisthereamongthereadersofthispaperthattrustsinanygoodnessofhisown?Who is there that is resting on his own amendments—his own morality—his ownchurchmanship—his own works and performances of any kind whatever? Who isthere that is leaning theweightofhis soulonanythingwhateverofhisown, in thesmallestpossibledegree?Learn,Isay,thatyouareveryunliketheapostlePaul.Learnthatyourreligionisnotapostolicreligion.

Whoisthereamongthereadersofthispaperthattrustsinhisreligiousprofessionforsalvation?Who is there that is valuinghimself onhisbaptism,orhis attendance attheLord'stable—hischurch-goingonSundays,orhisdailyservicesduringtheweek—andsayingtohimself,"WhatmoredoIlack?"Learn,Isay,thisday,thatyouareveryunlike Paul. Your Christianity is not the Christianity of the New Testament. Paul

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wouldnotboastinanythingbut"thecross."Neitheroughtyou.

Oh, let us beware of self-righteousness! Open sin kills its thousands ofsouls. Self-righteousness kills its tens of thousands!Go and study humilitywith thegreat apostleof theGentiles.Goand sitwithPaul at the foot of the cross.Give up your secret pride. Cast away your vain ideas of your own goodness. Bethankful if you have grace—but never boast in it for amoment.Work for God andChrist,withheartandsoulandmindandstrength—butneverdreamforasecondofplacingconfidenceinanyworkofyourown.

Think,youwhotakecomfortinsomefanciedideasofyourowngoodness—think,youwhowrapupyourselves in thenotion,"allmustberight, if Ikeep tomyChurch,"—think for a moment what a sandy foundation you are building upon! Think howmiserablydefectiveyourhopesandpleaswilllookinthehourofdeath,andinthedayof judgment!Whateverpeoplemaysayof theirowngoodnesswhile theyare strongand healthy, they will find but little to say of it when they are sick and dying.Whatevermerittheymayseeintheirownworkshereinthisworld,theywilldiscovernoneinthemwhentheystandbeforethetribunalofChrist.Thelightofthatgreatdayofjudgementwillmakeawonderfuldifferenceintheappearanceofalltheirdoings.Itwill stripoff the tinsel, shrivelup the complexion, expose the rottenness ofmany adeedthatisnowcalledgood.Theirwheatwillprovenothingbutchaff—theirgoldwillbe foundnothingbutdross.Millions of so-called 'goodworks'will turn out to havebeen utterly defective and graceless. They passed current, and were valued amongmen—theywillprovelightandworthlessinthebalanceofGod.Theywillbefoundtohavebeenlikethewhitenedsepulchersofold—fairandbeautifulontheoutside—butfullofcorruptionontheinside.Alas,forthemanwhocanlookforwardtothedayofjudgment,andleanhissoulinthesmallestdegreeonanythingofhisownnow!

"Howsoeverpeoplewhen they sit at ease,dovainly tickle their ownheartswith thewanton conceit of I know not what proportionable correspondence between theirmeritsandtheirrewards,which in the tranceof theirhighspeculations, theydreamthat God has measured and laid up as it were in bundles for them—we seenotwithstandingbydailyexperienceinanumberevenofthem,thatwhenthehourofdeathapproaches,whentheysecretlyhearthemselvessummonedtoappearandstandat the bar of that Judge, whose brightness causes the eyes of angels themselves todazzle,all those idle imaginationsdo thenbegin tohide their faces.Tonamemeritsthenistolaytheirsoulsupontherack.Thememoryoftheirowndeedsisloathsomeuntothem.Theyforsakeallthingswhereintheyhaveputanytrustandconfidence.Nostaff to lean upon, no rest, no ease, no comfort then—but only in ChristJesus."—RichardHooker.1585.

OncemoreIsay,letusbewareofself-righteousnessineverypossibleshapeandform.Somepeoplegetasmuchharmfromtheirfanciedvirtuesasothersdofromtheirsins.

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Restnot,restnotuntilyourheartbeatsintunewithPaul's.Restnotuntilyoucansaywithhim,"farbeitfrommetoboast,exceptinthecrossofourLordJesusChrist!"

II.Letmeexplain,inthesecondplace,whatwearetounderstandby"thecrossofChrist."

The'cross'isanexpressionthatisusedinmorethanonemeaningintheBible.Whatdid Paulmean when he said, "I boast in the cross of Christ," in the Epistle to theGalatians?ThisisthepointInowwishtoexaminecloselyandmakeclear.

Thecrosssometimesmeansthatwoodencross,onwhichtheLordJesusChristwasnailedandputtodeathonCalvary.ThisiswhatPaulhadinhismind'seye,whenhetold thePhilippians thatChrist "becameobedientuntodeath, even thedeathof thecross."(Phil.2:8.)ThisisnotthecrossinwhichPaulboasted.Hewouldhaveshrunkwithhorror from the idea of boasting in amere piece ofwood. I have no doubt hewould have denounced the Roman Catholic adoration of the crucifix, as profane,blasphemous,andidolatrous.

The cross sometimes means the afflictions and trialswhich believers in Christhavetogothrough,iftheyfollowChristfaithfully,fortheirreligion'ssake.ThisisthesenseinwhichourLordusesthewordwhenHesays,"HewhotakesnothiscrossandfollowsafterMe,cannotbemydisciple." (Matt. 10:38.)Thisalso isnot thesense inwhichPaulusesthewordwhenhewritestotheGalatians.Heknewthatcrosswell—hecarrieditpatiently.Butheisnotspeakingofithere.

But the cross also means, in some places, the doctrine that Christ died forsinnersuponthecross—theatonementthatHemadeforsinners,byHissufferingforthemonthecross—thecompleteandperfectsacrificeforsinwhichHeofferedup,whenHegaveHisownbodytobecrucified.Inshort,thisoneword,"thecross,"standsfor Christ crucified, the only Savior. This is the meaning in which Paul uses theexpression,whenhetellstheCorinthians,"thepreachingofthecrossistothosewhoperish foolishness." (1 Cor. 1:18.) This is the meaning in which he wrote to theGalatians, "Godforbid that Ishouldboast,except in thecross."Hesimplymeant, "IboastinnothingbutChristcrucified,asthesalvationofmysoul."

"By the cross of Christ the Apostle understands the all-sufficient, expiatory, andsatisfactorysacrificeofChristuponthecross,withthewholeworkofourredemption;inthesavingknowledgeofwhereofheprofesseshewillgloryandboasts."—CudworthonGalatians.1613.

"Touching these words, I do not find that any expositor, either ancient ormodern,Popish,orProtestant,writingonthisplace,doesexpoundthecrossherementionedof

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the signof the cross—butof theprofessionof faith inHimwhowashangedon thecross."—Mayer'sCommentary.1631.

"ThisisrathertobeunderstoodofthecrosswhichChristsufferedforus,thanofthatwesufferforHim."—Leigh'sAnnotations.1650.

JesusChristcrucifiedwasthejoyanddelight,thecomfortandthepeace,thehopeandtheconfidence,thefoundationandtheresting-place,thearkandtherefuge,thefoodandthemedicineofPaul'ssoul.Hedidnot thinkofwhathehaddonehimself, andsuffered himself. He did not meditate on his own goodness, and his ownrighteousness.HelovedtothinkofwhatChristhaddone,andChristhadsuffered—ofthedeathofChrist,therighteousnessofChrist,theatonementofChrist,thebloodofChrist,thefinishedworkofChrist.Inthishedidboast.Thiswasthesunofhissoul.

Thisisthesubjecthelovedtopreachabout.Hewasamanwhowenttoandfroon the earth, proclaiming to sinners that the Son of God had shedHis own heart'sbloodtosavetheirsouls.HewalkedupanddowntheworldtellingpeoplethatJesusChristhadlovedthem,anddiedfortheirsinsuponthecross.MarkhowhesaystotheCorinthians, "I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how thatChristdiedforoursins."(1Cor.15:3.)"IdeterminednottoknowanythingamongyouexceptJesusChrist,andHimcrucified."(1Cor.2:2.)He,ablaspheming,persecutingPharisee,hadbeenwashedinChrist'sblood.Hecouldnotholdhispeaceaboutit.Hewasneverwearyoftellingthestoryofthecross.

Thisisthesubjecthelovedtodwelluponwhenhewrotetobelievers. It iswonderfultoobservehowfullhisepistlesgenerallyareofthesufferingsanddeathofChrist—how they runoverwith "thoughts that breathe andwords that burn," aboutChrist'sdying loveandpower.Hisheart seems fullof the subject.Heenlargeson itconstantly—hereturnsto itcontinually. It is thegoldenthreadthatrunsthroughallhis doctrinal teaching and practical exhortations. He seems to think that the mostadvancedChristiancanneverheartoomuchaboutthecross.

"ChristcrucifiedisthesumoftheGospel,andcontainsalltherichesofit.PaulwassomuchtakenwithChrist,thatnothingsweeterthanJesuscoulddropfromhispenandlips. It is observed that he has the word "Jesus" five hundred times in hisEpistles."—Charnock.1684.

Thisiswhatheliveduponallhislife, fromthe timeofhisconversion.HetellstheGalatians,"ThelifethatInowliveinthefleshIlivebythefaithoftheSonofGod,wholovedmeandgaveHimself forme."(Galat.2:20.)Whatmadehimsostrongtolabor? What made him so willing to work? What made him so unwearied inendeavoringtosavesome?Whatmadehimsoperseveringandpatient?Iwilltellyouthesecretofitall.HewasalwaysfeedingbyfaithonChrist'sbodyandChrist'sblood.

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Jesuscrucifiedwasthefoodanddrinkofhissoul.

AndwemayrestassuredthatPaulwasright.Dependuponit,thecrossofChrist—the death of Christ on the cross to make atonement for sinners—is thecenter truth in thewholeBible. This is the truthwe beginwithwhenwe openGenesis. The seed of the woman bruising the serpent's head is nothing else but aprophecy of Christ crucified. This is the truth that shines out, though veiled, allthroughthelawofMoses,andthehistoryoftheJews.Thedailysacrifice,thepassoverlamb, the continual shedding of blood in the tabernacle and temple, all these wereemblems of Christ crucified. This is the truth thatwe see honored in the vision ofheavenbeforeweclosethebookofRevelation."Inthemidstofthethroneandofthefourbeasts,"wearetold,"andinthemidstoftheelders,stoodaLambasithadbeenslain."(Rev.5:6.)EveninthemidstofheavenlyglorywegetaviewofChristcrucified.Take away the cross of Christ, and the Bible is a dark book. It is like the Egyptianhieroglyphicswithoutthekeythatinterpretstheirmeaning—curiousandwonderful—butofnorealuse.

LeteveryreaderofthispapermarkwhatIsay.YoumayknowagooddealabouttheBible. Youmay know the outlines of the histories it contains, and the dates of theevents described, just as a man knows the history of England. You may know thenamesofthemenandwomenmentionedinit,justasamanknowsCaesar,AlexandertheGreat,orNapoleon.Youmayknowtheseveralpreceptsof theBible,andadmirethem,justasamanadmiresPlato,Aristotle,orSeneca.Butifyouhavenotyetfoundout thatChrist crucified is the foundationof thewholevolume, youhave readyourBible hitherto to very little profit. Your religion is a heavenwithout a sun, an archwithoutakey-stone,acompasswithoutaneedle,aclockwithoutspringorweights,alampwithoutoil.Itwillnotcomfortyou.Itwillnotdeliveryoursoulfromhell.

Markwhat I say again. Youmay know a good deal about Christ, by a kind of headknowledge.YoumayknowwhoHewas,andwhereHewasborn,andwhatHedid.Youmay knowHismiracles, His sayings,His prophecies, andHis ordinances. YoumayknowhowHelived,andhowHesuffered,andhowHedied.ButunlessyouknowthepowerofChrist'scrossbyexperience—unlessyouknowandfeelwithinthatthebloodshedonthatcrosshaswashedawayyourownparticularsins—unlessyouarewillingtoconfessthatyoursalvationdependsentirelyontheworkthatChristdiduponthecross—unless this be the case, Christ will profit you nothing. The mere knowingChrist'snamewillnever saveyou.YoumustknowHis cross, andHisblood,or elseyouwilldieinyoursins.

"Ifour faithstops inChrist's life,anddoesnot fastenuponHisblood, itwillnotbejustifying faith. His miracles, which prepared the world for His doctrines; Hisholiness,whichfittedHimselfforHissufferings,hadbeeninsufficientforuswithouttheadditionofthecross."Charnock.1684.

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Aslongasyoulive,bewareofareligioninwhichthereisnotmuchofthecross.Youlive in times when the warning is sadly needful. Beware, I say again, of a religionwithoutthecross.

There are hundreds of places of worship, in this day, in which there is everythingalmost except the cross. There is carved oak, and sculptured stone; there is stainedglass, and brilliant painting; there are solemn services, and a constant round ofordinances;buttherealcrossofChristisnotthere.Jesuscrucifiedisnotproclaimedin thepulpit.TheLambofGod isnot liftedup,andsalvationby faith inHim isnotfreelyproclaimed.Andhencealliswrong.Bewareofsuchplacesofworship.Theyarenotapostolic.TheywouldnothavesatisfiedPaul.

"PauldeterminedtoknownothingelsebutJesusChristandHimcrucified.Butmanymanagetheministryasiftheyhadtakenupacontrarydetermination—eventoknowanythingexceptJesusChristandHimcrucified."—Traill.1690.

There are thousands of religious books published in our times, in which there iseverythingexceptthecross.Theyarefullofdirectionsaboutsacraments,andpraisesof the Church. They abound in exhortations about holy living, and rules for theattainment of perfection. They have plenty of fonts and crosses, both inside andoutside.ButtherealcrossofChristisleftout.TheSavior,andHisworkofatonementand complete salvation, are either notmentioned, ormentioned in an unscripturalway. And hence they are worse than useless. Beware of such books. They are notapostolic.TheywouldneverhavesatisfiedPaul.

Paulboastedinnothingbutthecross.Strivetobe likehim.SetJesuscrucified fullybefore the eyes of your soul. Listen not to any teaching which would interposeanythingbetweenyouandHim.DonotfallintotheoldGalatianerror—thinknotthatanyoneinthisdayisabetterguidethantheapostles.Donotbeashamedofthe"oldpaths,"inwhichmenwalkedwhowereinspiredbytheHolySpirit.Letnotthevaguetalkofmodernteachers,whospeakgreatswellingwordsabout"catholicity,"and"thechurch,"disturbyourpeace,andmakeyoulooseyourhandsfromthecross.Churches,ministers, and sacraments, are all useful in their way—but they are not Christcrucified.DonotgiveChrist'shonortoanother."Hewhoboasts,lethimboastintheLord."(1Cor.1:1.)

III.Let me show, lastly,why all Christians ought to boast in the cross ofChrist.

IfeelthatImustsaysomethingonthispoint,becauseoftheignorancethatprevailsaboutit.IsuspectthatmanyseenopeculiargloryandbeautyinthesubjectofChrist'scross.Onthecontrary,theythinkitpainful,humbling,anddegrading.Theydonotseemuchprofit in the storyofHisdeathand sufferings.They rather turn from it asan

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unpleasantthing.

NowIbelievethatsuchpeoplearequitewrong.Icannotholdwiththem.Ibelieveitisanexcellent thing forusall tobecontinuallydwellingon thecrossofChrist. It is agood thing to be often reminded how Jesuswas betrayed into the hands of wickedmen—howtheycondemnedHimwithmostunjustjudgment—howtheyspitonHim,scourgedHim,beatHim,andcrownedHimwiththorns—howtheyledHimforthasalambtotheslaughter,withoutHismurmuringorresisting—howtheydrovethenailsthroughHis hands and feet, and setHim up on Calvary between two thieves—howtheypiercedHissidewithaspear,mockedHiminHissufferings,and letHimhangthere naked and bleeding until He died. Of all these things, I say, it is good to bereminded.ItisnotfornothingthatthecrucifixionisdescribedfourtimesoverintheNewTestament.ThereareveryfewthingsthatallfourwritersoftheGospeldescribe.Generally speaking, if Matthew, Mark, and Luke tell a thing in our Lord's history,Johndoesnot tell it.But there isone thing thatall the fourgiveusmost fully, andthatonethingisthestoryofthecross.Thisisatellingfact,andnottobeoverlooked.

People seem to forget that all Christ's sufferings on the cross were fore-ordained.TheydidnotcomeonHimbychanceoraccident—theywereallplanned,counseled, and determined from all eternity. The cross was foreseen in all theprovisionsof the everlastingTrinity for the salvation of sinners. In the purposes ofGodthecrosswassetup fromeverlasting.Notone throbofpaindidJesus feel,notonepreciousdropof blooddid Jesus shed,whichhadnot been appointed long ago.Infinite wisdom planned that redemption should be by the cross. Infinite wisdombroughtJesustothecrossinduetime.Hewascrucified"bythedeterminatecounselandforeknowledgeofGod."(Acts2:23.)

PeopleseemtoforgetthatallChrist'ssufferingsonthecrosswerenecessaryforman'ssalvation.Hehadtobearoursins, if ever theywere tobeborneatall.WithHisstripesalonecouldwebehealed.ThiswastheonepaymentofourdebtthatGodwouldaccept—thiswasthegreatsacrificeonwhichoureternallifedepended.IfChrist had not gone to the cross and suffered in our stead, the just for the unjust,therewouldnothavebeena sparkofhope forus.Therewouldhavebeen amightygulfbetweenourselvesandGod,whichnomanevercouldhavepassed.

"InChrist'shumiliationstandsourexaltation;inHisweaknessstandsourstrength;inHisignominyourglory;inHisdeathourlife."—Cudworth.1613.

"Theeyeof faithregardsChristsittingonthesummitof thecrossas ina triumphalchariot; thedevilboundtothe lowestpartof thesamecross,andtroddenunder thefeetofChrist."—DavenantonColossians.1627.

PeopleseemtoforgetthatallChrist'ssufferingswereenduredvoluntarily,and

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ofHisownfreewill.Hewasundernocompulsion.OfHisownchoiceHe laiddownHislife—ofHisownchoiceHewenttothecrossinordertofinishtheworkHecametodo.Hemighteasilyhave summoned legionsofangelswithaword,andscatteredPilateandHerod,andalltheirarmies,likechaffbeforethewind.ButHewasawillingsufferer.His heart was set on the salvation of sinners.Hewas resolved to open "afountainforallsinanduncleanness,"bysheddingHisownblood.(Zech.13:1.)

WhenIthinkofallthis,IseenothingpainfulordisagreeableinthesubjectofChrist'scross.Onthecontrary,Iseeinitwisdomandpower,peaceandhope,joyandgladness,comfort and consolation. The more I keep the cross in my mind's eye, the morefullnessIseemtodiscern in it.The longer Idwellon thecross inmy thoughts, themore I am satisfied that there ismore tobe learnedat the footof the crossthananywhereelseintheworld.

(a)WouldIknowthelengthandbreadthofGodtheFather'slovetowardsasinfulworld?WhereshallIseeitmostdisplayed?ShallIlookatHisglorioussun,shiningdowndailyontheunthankfulandevil?ShallIlookatseed-timeandharvest,returninginregularyearlysuccession?Oh,no!Icanfindastrongerproofoflovethananything of this sort. I look at the cross of Christ. I see in it not the cause of theFather'slove—buttheeffect.ThereIseethatGodsolovedthiswickedworld,thatHegaveHis only begotten Son—gaveHim to suffer and die—that "whoever believes inHim should not perish—but have eternal life." (John 3:16.) I know that the Fatherloves us, because He did not withhold from us His Son, His only Son. I mightsometimesfancythatGodtheFatheristoohighandholytocareforsuchmiserable,corruptcreaturesasweare!ButIcannot,mustnot,darenotthinkit,whenIlookatthecrossofChrist.

"Theworldweliveinwouldhavefallenuponourheads,haditnotbeenupheldbythepillarofthecross;hadnotChriststeppedinandpromisedasatisfactionforthesinofman.Bythisallthingsconsist—notablessingweenjoybutmayputusinmindofit;theywereallforfeitedbysin—butmeritedbyHisblood.IfwestudyitwellweshallbesensiblehowGodhatedsinandlovedaworld."—Charnock.

(b)Would I know how exceedingly sinful and abominable sin is in thesight ofGod?Where shall I see that most fully brought out? Shall I turn to thehistoryoftheflood,andreadhowsindrownedtheworld?Shall Igoto theshoreoftheDeadSea,andmarkwhat sinbroughtonSodomandGomorrah?Shall I turn tothewandering Jews, and observe how sin has scattered them over the face of theearth?No!Icanfindaclearerproofstill!IlookatthecrossofChrist.ThereIseethatsinissoblackanddamnable,thatnothingbutthebloodofGod'sownSoncanwashitaway.ThereIseethatsinhassoseparatedmefrommyholyMaker,thatalltheangelsinheavencouldneverhavemadepeacebetweenus.Nothingcouldreconcileus,shortof the death of Christ. If I listened to the wretched talk of proud people, I might

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sometimesfancysinwasnotsoverysinful!ButIcannotthinklittleofsin,whenIlookatthecrossofChrist.

(c)WouldIknowthefullnessandcompletenessofthesalvationGodhasprovidedforsinners?WhereshallIseeitmostdistinctly?ShallIgotothegeneraldeclarationsintheBibleaboutGod'smercy?Shall I rest in thegeneral truth thatGod is a "Godoflove"?Oh,no!IwilllookatthecrossofChrist.Ifindnoevidencelikethat.Ifindnobalmforasoreconscienceandatroubledheart,likethesightofJesusdyingformeontheaccursedtree.ThereIseethatafullpaymenthasbeenmadeforallmyenormousdebts.Thecurseof that lawwhichIhavebrokenhascomedownonOnewhotheresuffered inmy stead. The demands of that law are all satisfied. Payment has beenmadeforme,eventotheuttermostfarthing.Itwillnotberequiredtwiceover.Ah,Imight sometimes imagine I was too bad to be forgiven! My own heart sometimeswhispersthatIamtoowickedtobesaved.ButIknowinmybettermomentsthisisallmyfoolishunbelief.IreadananswertomydoubtsinthebloodshedonCalvary.Ifeelsure that there is away to heaven for the very vilest of people, when I look at thecross.

(d)WouldIfindstrongreasonsforbeingaholyman?WhereshallIturnforthem?ShallIlistentothetencommandmentsmerely?ShallIstudytheexamplesgivenmeintheBibleofwhatgracecando?ShallImeditateontherewardsofheaven,andthepunishmentsofhell?Istherenostrongermotivestill?Yes!IwilllookatthecrossofChrist!There I see the love ofChrist constrainingme to "livenot untomyself—butuntoHim."ThereIseethatIamnotmyownnow—Iam"boughtwithaprice."(2Cor.5:15; 1Cor.6:20.) I amboundby themost solemnobligations to glorify Jesuswithbodyandspirit,whichareHis.ThereIseethatJesusgaveHimselfforme,notonlytoredeemmefromalliniquity—butalsotopurifyme,andtomakemeoneofa"peculiarpeople,zealousofgoodworks."(Titus2:14.)HeboremysinsinHisownbodyonthetree,"thatIbeingdeaduntosinshouldliveuntorighteousness."(1Pet.2:24.)ThereisnothingsosanctifyingasaclearviewofthecrossofChrist!Itcrucifiestheworlduntous,andusuntotheworld.Howcanwelovesin,whenwerememberthatbecauseofoursinsJesusdied?SurelynoneoughttobesoholyasthedisciplesofacrucifiedLord.

(e)WouldIlearnhowtobecontentedandcheerfulunderallthecaresandconcernsof life?What school shall I go to?How shall I attain this state ofmindmosteasily?ShallIlookatthesovereigntyofGod,thewisdomofGod,theprovidenceofGod,the loveofGod?It iswell todoso.ButIhaveabetterargumentstill. IwilllookatthecrossofChrist.Ifeelthat"HewhosparednotHisonly-begottenSon—butdeliveredHimuptodieforme,willsurelywithHimgivemeallthings"thatIreallyneed.(Rom.8:32.)Hewhoenduredsuchagony,sufferings,andpainformysoul,willsurelynotwithholdfrommeanythingthatisreallygood.Hewhohasdonethegreaterthingsforme,willdoubtlessdothelesserthingsalso.HewhogaveHisownbloodto

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procuremeahome inheaven,will unquestionably supplymewith all that is reallyprofitableformebytheway.Thereisnoschoolforlearningcontentmentthatcanbecomparedwiththefootofthecross!

(f)WouldIgatherargumentsforhopingthatIshallneverbecastaway?WhereshallIgotofind them?Shall I lookatmyowngracesandgifts?Shall I takecomfortinmyownfaith,andlove,andpenitence,andzeal,andprayer?ShallIturntomyownheart, and say, "this sameheartwillneverbe falseandcold"?Oh,no! Godforbid!IwilllookatthecrossofChrist.Thisismygrandargument.Thisismymainstay.IcannotthinkthatHewhowentthroughsuchsufferingstoredeemmysoul,willletthatsoulperishafterall,whenithasoncecastitselfonHim.Oh,no!whatJesuspaidfor,Jesuswillsurelykeep.Hepaiddearlyforit.Hewillnot let iteasilybelost.HecalledmetoHimselfwhenIwasadarksinner—HewillneverforsakemeafterIhavebelieved.When Satan tempts us to doubtwhetherChrist's peoplewill be keptfromfalling,weshouldtellSatantolookatthecross.

"Thebelieverissofreedfrometernalwrath,thatifSatanandconsciencesay,'Youareasinner,andunderthecurseofthelaw,'hecansay,'Itistrue,Iamasinner;butIwashangedonatreeanddied,andwasmadeacurseinmyHeadandLawgiverChrist,andHis payment and suffering is my payment and suffering.'"—Rutherford's ChristDying.1647.

Andnow,willyoumarvel that IsaidallChristiansought toboast in thecross?Willyounotratherwonderthatanycanhearofthecrossandremainunmoved?IdeclareIknowno greater proof ofman's depravity, than the fact that thousands of so-calledChristiansseenothinginthecross.Wellmayourheartsbecalledstony—wellmaytheeyesofourmindbecalledblind—wellmayourwholenaturebecalleddiseased—wellmaywe all be called dead, when the cross of Christ is heard of and yet neglected.Surelywemay takeup thewordsof theprophet,andsay, "Hear,Oheavens, andbeastonishedOearth;anastoundingandahorriblethingisdone,"—Christwascrucifiedforsinners,andyetmanyChristiansliveasifHewasnevercrucifiedatall!

(a) The cross is the grand peculiarity of the Christian religion.Otherreligions have laws and moral precepts, forms and ceremonies, rewards andpunishments.Butotherreligionscannot tellusofadyingSavior.Theycannotshowus thecross.This is the crownandglory of theGospel.This is that special comfortwhichbelongstoitalone.MiserableindeedisthatreligiousteachingwhichcallsitselfChristian,andyetcontainsnothingofthecross.Amanwhoteachesinthisway,mightaswellprofesstoexplainthesolarsystem,andyettellhishearersnothingaboutthesun.

(b)Thecrossisthestrengthofaminister.Iforonewouldnotbewithoutitforall theworld.Ishouldfeel likeasoldierwithoutweapons—likeanartistwithouthis

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brush—likeapilotwithouthiscompass—likealaborerwithouthistools.Letothers,iftheywill,preachthelawandmorality;letothersholdforththeterrorsofhell,andthejoys of heaven; let others drench their congregations with teachings about thesacramentsandthechurch;givemethecrossofChrist!This is theonly leverwhichhaseverturnedtheworldupsidedownhitherto,andmadepeopleforsaketheirsins.Andifthiswillnot,nothingwill.AmanmaybeginpreachingwithaperfectknowledgeofLatin,Greek,andHebrew;buthewilldolittleornogoodamonghishearersunlessheknowssomethingof thecross.Neverwas thereaministerwhodidmuch for theconversionofsoulswhodidnotdwellmuchonChristcrucified.Luther,Rutherford,Whitefield, M'Cheyne, were all most eminently preachers of the cross. This is thepreaching that theHolySpiritdelights tobless.He loves tohonor thosewhohonorthecross.

(c)Thecrossisthesecretofallmissionarysuccess.Nothingbutthishasevermovedtheheartsof theheathen.Justaccordingas thishasbeen liftedupmissionshaveprospered.Thisistheweaponwhichhaswonvictoriesoverheartsofeverykind,in every quarter of the globe. Greenlanders, Africans, South-Sea Islanders, Hindus,Chinese, all have alike felt its power. Just as that huge iron tubewhich crosses theMenai Straits, ismore affected and bent by half-an-hour's sunshine than by all thedead weight that can be placed in it, so in likemanner the hearts of savages havemeltedbeforethecross,wheneveryotherargumentseemedtomovethemnomorethan stones. "Brethren," said aNorth-American Indian after his conversion, "I havebeen a heathen. I know how heathens think. Once a preacher came and began toexplaintousthattherewasaGod;butwetoldhimtoreturntotheplacefromwhencehecame.Anotherpreachercameandtoldusnottolie,norsteal,nordrink;butwedidnotheedhim.Atlastanothercameintomyhutonedayandsaid,'IamcometoyouinthenameoftheLordofheavenandearth,HesendstoletyouknowthatHewillmakeyouhappy,anddeliveryoufrommisery.ForthisendHebecameaman,gaveHislifearansom,andshedHisbloodforsinners.'Icouldnotforgethiswords.I toldthemtothe other Indians, and an awakening began among us." I say, therefore, preach thesufferings and death of Christ, our Savior, if youwish yourwords to gain entranceamong the heathen.Never indeed did the devil triumph so thoroughly, aswhen hepersuadedtheJesuitmissionariesinChinatokeepbackthestoryofthecross!

(d)ThecrossisthefoundationofaChurch'sprosperity.NoChurchwilleverbehonored inwhich Christ crucified is not continually lifted up—nothingwhatevercanmakeupforthelackofthecross.Withoutitallthingsmaybedonedecentlyandin order; without it there may be splendid ceremonies, beautiful music, gorgeouschurches, learned ministers, crowded communion tables, huge collections for thepoor.Butwithoutthecrossnogoodwillbedone;darkheartswillnotbeenlightened,proud hearts will not be humbled,mourning hearts will not be comforted, faintinghearts will not be cheered. Sermons about the Church and an apostolic ministry—sermons about baptism and the Lord's supper—sermons about unity and schism—

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sermons about fasts and communion—sermons about fathers and saints—suchsermons will nevermake up for the absence of sermons about the cross of Christ.They may amuse some—they will feed none. A gorgeous banqueting room, andsplendidgoldplateonthe table,willnevermakeuptoahungrymanfor the lackoffood.ChristcrucifiedisGod'sordinancefordoinggoodtopeople.WheneveraChurchkeepsbackChrist crucified,orputsanythingwhatever in that foremostplacewhichChristcrucifiedshouldalwayshave,fromthatmomentaChurchceasestobeuseful.WithoutChristcrucifiedinherpulpits,achurchislittlebetterthanacumbereroftheground,adeadcarcase,awellwithoutwater,abarrenfigtree,asleepingwatchman,asilent trumpet, a speechless witness, an ambassador without terms of peace, amessenger without tidings, a lighthouse without fire, a stumbling-block to weakbelievers, a comfort to infidels, a hot-bed for formalism, a joy to the devil, and anoffencetoGod.

(e) The cross is the grand center of union among true Christians. Ouroutwarddifferencesaremany,withoutdoubt.OnemanisanEpiscopalian,anotherisaPresbyterian—oneisanIndependent,anotheraBaptist—oneisaCalvinist,anotheran Arminian—one is a Lutheran, another a Plymouth Brother—one is a friend toEstablishments,anotherafriendtothevoluntarysystem—oneisafriendtoliturgies,anotherafriendtoextemporeprayer.But,afterall,whatshallwehearaboutmostofthese differences, in heaven? Nothing, most probably—nothing at all.Does a manreally and sincerely boast in the cross of Christ? That is the grand question. If hedoes,heismybrother—wearetravelingonthesameroad;wearejourneyingtowardsahomewhereChristisall,andeverythingoutwardinreligionwillbeforgotten.Butifhedoesnotboast in thecrossofChrist, I cannot feel comfortabouthim.Uniononoutward points only, is union only for a time—union about the cross is union foreternity.Erroronoutwardpointsisonlyaskin-deepdisease—erroraboutthecrossisdiseaseattheheart.Unionaboutoutwardpoints isamereman-madeunion—unionaboutthecrossofChristcanonlybeproducedbytheHolySpirit.

Iknownotwhatyouthinkofallthis.IfeelasifIhadsaidnothingcomparedtowhatmightbesaid.IfeelasifthehalfofwhatIdesiretotellyouaboutthecrosswereleftuntold.ButIdohopethatIhavegivenyousomethingtothinkabout.IdotrustthatIhave shown you that I have reason for the questionwithwhich I began this paper,"Whatdoyou thinkand feelabout thecrossofChrist?"Listen tomenow fora fewmoments,whileIsaysomethingtoAPPLYthewholesubjecttoyourconscience.

(a)Areyoulivinginanykindofsin?Areyoufollowingthecourseofthisworld,andneglectingyoursoul?Hear,Ibeseechyou,whatIsaytoyouthisday,"BeholdtheCross of Christ." See there how Jesus loved you! See there what Jesus suffered toprepareforyouawayofsalvation.Yes—carelessmenandwomen,foryouthatbloodwas shed!For you thosehands and feetwerepiercedwithnails! For you that bodyhunginagonyonthecross!YouarethosewhomJesusloved,andforwhomHedied!

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Surelythatloveoughttomeltyou.Surelythethoughtofthecrossshoulddrawyoutorepentance.Oh,thatitmightbesothisveryday!Oh,thatyouwouldcomeatoncetothatSaviorwhodied foryou,and iswilling to save!Come,andcry toHimwith theprayeroffaith,andIknowthatHewilllisten.Come,andlayholduponthecross,andIknowthatHewillnotcastyouout.Come,andbelieveonHimwhodiedonthecross,andthisverydayyoushallhaveeternallife.Howwillyoueverescapeifyouneglectsogreatsalvation?Nonesurelywillbesodeepinhellasthosewhodespisethecross!

(b)Areyouinquiringthewaytowardheaven?Areyouseekingsalvation—butdoubtfulwhetheryoucanfindit?AreyoudesiringtohaveaninterestinChrist—butdoubtingwhetherChristwillreceiveyou?ToyoualsoIsaythisday,"BeholdthecrossofChrist."Hereisencouragement ifyoureallywant it.Drawnear to theLordJesuswithboldness,fornothingneedkeepyouback.Hisarmsareopentoreceiveyou—Hisheartisfulloflovetowardsyou.HehasmadeawaybywhichyoumayapproachHimwithconfidence.Thinkofthecross.Drawnear,andfearnot.

(c)Areyouanunlearnedman?Areyoudesiroustogettoheaven,andperplexedandbroughttoastand-stillbydifficulties intheBiblewhichyoucannotexplain?ToyoualsoIsaythisday,"BeholdthecrossofChrist."ReadtheretheFather'sloveandtheSon's compassion.Surely theyarewritten ingreatplain letters,whichnone canwellmistake.Whatthoughyouarenowperplexedbythedoctrineofelection?Whatthough at present you cannot reconcile your own utter corruption and your ownresponsibility?Look, I say, at the cross.Doesnot that cross tell you that Jesus is amighty,loving,readySavior?Doesitnotmakeonethingplain,andthatisthatitisallyourownfaultifyouarenotsaved?Oh,getholdofthattruth,andholditfast!

(d)Areyouadistressedbeliever?Isyourheartpresseddownwithsickness,triedwithdisappointments,overburdenedwith cares?Toyoualso I say thisday, "Beholdthe crossofChrist."Thinkwhosehand it is that chastensyou; thinkwhosehand ismeasuringtoyouthecupofbitternesswhichyouarenowdrinking.ItisthehandofHimwhowascrucified!Itisthesamehandwhichinlovetoyoursoulwasnailedtothe accursed tree. Surely that thought should comfort and hearten you. Surely youshouldsaytoyourself,"AcrucifiedSaviorwillneverlayuponmeanythingthatisnotformygood.Thereisaneedsbe.Itmustbewell."

(e)Areyouabelieverthatlongstobemoreholy?Areyouonethat findshishearttooreadytoloveearthlythings?ToyoualsoIsay,"BeholdthecrossofChrist."Lookatthecross,thinkofthecross,meditateonthecross,andthengoandsetyouraffectionsontheworldifyoucan.Ibelievethatholinessisnowherelearnedsowellason Calvary. I believe you cannot look much at the cross without feeling your willsanctified, and your tastes made more spiritual. As the sun gazed upon makeseverythingelselookdarkanddim,sodoesthecrossdarkenthefalsesplendorofthis

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world.Ashoneytastedmakesallotherthingsseemtohavenotasteatall,sodoesthecrossseenbyfaithtakeall thesweetnessoutof thepleasuresof theworld.KeeponeverydaysteadilylookingatthecrossofChrist,andyouwillsoonsayoftheworld,asthepoetdoes—

Itspleasuresnownolongerplease,Nomorecontentafford;Farfrommyheartbejoyslikethese,NowIhaveseentheLord.

AsbythelightofopeningdayThestarsareallconcealed,SoearthlypleasuresfadeawayWhenJesusisrevealed.

(f)Areyouadyingbeliever?Haveyougone to thatbed fromwhich somethingwithintellsyouyouwillnevercomedownalive?Areyoudrawingneartothatsolemnhour,whensoulandbodymustpartforaseason,andyoumustlaunchintoaworldunknown?Oh, look steadilyat the crossofChristby faith, andyou shall be kept inpeace! Fix the eyes of yourmind firmly, not on aman-made crucifix—but on Jesuscrucified,andHeshalldeliveryoufromallyourfears.Thoughyouwalkthroughdarkplaces,Hewillbewithyou.Hewillneverleaveyou—neverforsakeyou.Situndertheshadowofthecrosstotheverylast,anditsfruitshallbesweettoyourtaste."Ah,"saidadyingmissionary,"thereisbutonethingneedfulonadeath-bed,andthatistofeelone'sarmsaroundthecross!"

Ilaythesethoughtsbeforeyourmind.WhatyouthinknowaboutthecrossofChrist,Icannottell.ButIcanwishyounothingbetterthanthis—thatyoumaybeabletosaywiththeApostlePaul,beforeyoudieormeettheLord,"GodforbidthatIshouldboast—exceptinthecrossofourLordJesusChrist!

TheHolyGhost

"Ifanyonedoesnothave theSpiritofChrist,hedoesnotbelong toHim." (Romans8:9)

Thesubjectofthispaperisoneofthedeepestimportancetooursouls.ThatsubjectistheworkofGodtheHolySpirit.ThesolemnwordsofthetextwhichheadsthispagedemandtheattentionofallwhobelievetheScripturestobethelivingvoiceofGod."If

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anyonedoesnothavetheSpiritofChrist,hedoesnotbelongtoHim."

It is probable that most of those into whose hands this paper will fall, have beenbaptized.Andinwhatnamewereyoubaptized?Itwas"inthenameoftheFather,andoftheSon,andoftheHolySpirit."

Itisprobablethatmanyreadersofthispaperaremarriedpeople.Andinwhatnamewere you pronounced man and wife together? Again, it was "in the name of theFather,andoftheSon,andoftheHolySpirit."

It is not unlikely that many readers of this paper are members of the Church ofEngland.And inwhatdoyoudeclareyourbeliefeverySunday,whenyourepeat theCreed?Yousaythatyou"believeinGodtheFather,andinGodtheSon,andinGodtheHolySpirit."

It is likely that many readers of this paper will be buried one day with the burialservice of theChurchofEngland.Andwhatwill be the lastwordspronouncedoveryourcoffin,beforethemournersgohome,andthegraveclosesoveryourhead?Theywill be, "may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and thefellowshipoftheHolySpiritbewithyouall."(2Cor.13:14.)

NowIaskeveryreaderofthispaperaplainquestionDoyouknowwhatyoumeanbythesewords,sooftenrepeated—theHolySpirit?WhatplacehasGodtheHolySpiritinyour religion? What do you know of His office, His work, His indwelling, Hisfellowship,andHispower?ThisisthesubjecttowhichIaskyourattentionthisday.IwantyoutoconsiderseriouslywhatyouknowabouttheworkofGodtheHolySpirit.

I believe that the times inwhichwe live demand frequent and distinct testimoniesuponthisgreatsubject.IbelievethatfewtruthsoftheChristianreligionaresooftenobscuredandspoiledbyfalsedoctrineasthetruthabouttheHolySpirit.Ibelievethatthereisnosubjectwhichanignorantworldissoreadytorevileas"cant,fanaticism,andenthusiasm,"asthesubjectoftheworkoftheHolySpirit.Myheart'sdesireandprayertoGodis,thataboutthissubjectImaywritenothingbutthe"truthasitisinJesus,"andthatImaywritethattruthinlove.ForconveniencesakeIshalldividemysubjectintofourheads.Ishallexamineinorder—

I.Firstly—theimportanceattachedtotheworkoftheHolySpiritinScripture.

II.Secondly—thenecessityoftheworkoftheHolySpirittoman'ssalvation.

III.Thirdly—themannerinwhichtheHolySpiritworksinman'sheart.

IV.Lastly—themarksandevidencesbywhich thepresenceof theHolySpirit inaman'sheartmaybeknown.

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I.ThefirstpointIproposetoconsideristheIMPORTANCEattachedtotheworkoftheHolySpiritinScripture.Ifindithardtoknowwheretobeginandwheretoleave off, in handling this branch ofmy subject. It would be easy to fill up all thispaper by quoting texts about it. So often is the Holy Spirit mentioned in the NewTestament, that my difficulty is not so much the discovery of evidence, as theselectionoftexts.Eighteentimesintheeighthchapterof theEpistle totheRomansPaul speaks of God the Spirit. In fact the place which the Holy Spirit holds in themindsofmostprofessingChristiansbearsnoproportiontotheplacewhichHeholdsintheWordofGod.

"There isageneralomission in thesaintsofGod, in theirnotgiving theHolySpiritthat glory which is due to His person, and for His great work of salvation in us;insomuchthatwehave inourheartsalmost lost thisThirdPerson.Wegivedaily inour thoughts,prayers, affectionsand speeches, anhonor to theFather and theSon.Butwhodirectstheaimsofhispraise(morethaninthatgeneralwayofdoxologyweuse to close our prayers with) unto God the Holy Spirit? He is a Person in theGodhead,equalwiththeFatherandtheSon.TheworkHedoesforus,initskind,isasgreat as those of the Father or the Son. Therefore, by the equity of all law, aproportionate honor is due to Him."—Thomas Goodwin on the Work of the HolySpirit.1704.

IshallnotspendmuchtimeinprovingthedivinityandpersonalityoftheHolySpirit.Theyarepointswhicharewritten inScriptureaswithasun-beam.Iamutterlyataloss tounderstandhowanyhonest-minded readerof theBible can fail to see them.Aboveall,Iamunabletocomprehendhowanyunprejudicedreaderof theBiblecanregardtheSpiritasnothingmorethan"aninfluenceorprinciple."WefinditwrittenintheNewTestament, that theHolySpiritwas"seendescending inabodilyshape."(Luke3:22.)Hecommandeddisciples todoacts,and lifted themthrough theairbyHisownpower.(Acts8:29-39.)HesentforththefirstpreacherstotheGentiles.(Acts13:2.)HespoketotheChurches.(Rev.2:7.)Hemakes intercession.(Rom.8:26.)Hesearches all things, teaches all things, and guides into all truth. (1 Cor. 2:10; John14:26; 16:13.) He is another Comforter distinct from Christ. (John 14:16.) He haspersonalaffectionsascribedtoHim.(Isaiah63:10;Ephes.4:30;Rom.15:30.)Hehasamind, will, and power of His own. (Rom. 8:27; 1 Cor. 12:11; Rom. 15:13.) He hasbaptism administered in His name together with the Father and the Son. (Matt.28:19.)AndwhoevershallblasphemeHimhasneverforgiveness,andis indangerofeternaldamnation.(Mark3:29.)

I make no comment on these passages. They speak for themselves. I only use thewords ofAmbroseSerle in saying, that "Two and twomaking four, doesnot appearmoreclearandconclusivethanthat theHolySpirit isa livingdivineAgent,workingwith consciousness, will, and power. If people will not be persuaded by thesetestimonies,neitherwouldtheybepersuadedthoughonerosefromthedead."

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I repeat that Iwillnotspendtime indwellingonproofsof theHolySpirit'sdivinityandpersonality.IwillratherconfineallIhavetosayonthisbranchofmysubjecttotwogeneralremarks.

Foronething,Iaskmyreaderstoremarkcarefullythatineverystepofthegrandworkofman'sredemptiontheBibleassignsaprominentplacetoGodtheHolySpirit.

WhatdoyouthinkoftheincarnationofChrist?Youknowwecannotover-rate itsimportance.Well,itiswrittenthatwhenourLordwasconceivedoftheVirginMary,"theHoly Spirit came upon her, and the power of the Highest overshadowed her."(Luke1:35.)

WhatdoyouthinkoftheearthlyministryofourLordJesusChrist?YouknowthatnoneeverdidwhatHedid,livedasHelived,andspokeasHespoke.Well,itiswrittenthattheSpirit"descendedfromheavenlikeadoveandabodeuponHim,"—that"GodanointedHimwiththeHolySpirit,"—that"theFathergavenottheSpiritbymeasureuntoHim," and thatHewas "full of theHoly Spirit." (John 1:32; Acts 10:38; John3:34;Luke4:1.)

What do you think of the vicarious sacrifice of Christ on the cross? Its value issimplyunspeakable.NowonderPaulsays,"GodforbidthatIshouldboast,except inthe cross." (Gal. 6:14.) Well, it is written, "Through the eternal Spirit He offeredHimselfwithoutspottoGod."(Heb.9:14.)

WhatdoyouthinkoftheresurrectionofChrist?Itwasthesealandtop-stoneofallHiswork.Hewas"raisedagainforour justification."(Rom.4:25.)Well, it iswrittenthat"Hewasputtodeathintheflesh—butquickenedbytheSpirit."(1Pet.3:18.)

WhatdoyouthinkofthedepartureofChristfromthisworld,whenHeascendedupinto heaven? It was a tremendous trial toHis disciples. They were left like a littleorphan family, in the midst of cruel enemies. Well, what was the grand promisewherewithourSaviorcheered themthenightbeforeHedied?"Iwillask theFatherandHeshallgiveyouanotherComforter,eventheSpiritoftruth"(John14:16,17.)

WhatdoyouthinkofthemissionoftheapostlestopreachtheGospel?WeGentilesowe to it all our religious light and knowledge.Well, they were obliged to tarry atJerusalemand"waitforthepromiseoftheFather."Theywereunfittogoforthuntiltheywere"filledwiththeHolySpirit,"uponthedayofPentecost.(Acts1:4;2:4.)

WhatdoyouthinkoftheScripture,whichiswrittenforourlearning?YouknowthatourearthwithoutasunwouldbebutafaintemblemofaworldwithoutaBible.Well,weareinformedthatinwritingthatScripture,"HolymenspokeastheyweremovedbytheHolySpirit."(2Pet.1:21.)"Thethingswhichwespeak,"saysPaul,wespeakin

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thewordswhichtheHolySpiritteaches."(1Cor.2:13.)

What do you think of thewhole dispensation underwhichwe Christians live? YouknowitsprivilegesasfarexceedthoseoftheJewsastwilightisexceededbynoonday.Well,weareespeciallytoldthatitisthe"ministrationoftheSpirit."(2Cor.3:8.)

IwouldnotforamomenthaveanyonesupposethatIthinkOldTestamentbelievershadnot theHoly Spirit.On the contrary I hold that there has never been awhit ofspiritual lifeamongpeople,excepting fromtheHolySpirit—and that theHolySpiritmadeAbelandNoahwhattheywere,nolessreallythanHemadePaul.AllImeantoassert is, that theHolySpirit is somuchmore fully revealedand largelypouredoutundertheNewTestamentthanundertheOld,thattheNewTestamentdispensationisemphatically and peculiarly called the "ministration of the Spirit." The differencebetweenthetwodispensationsisonlyoneofdegree.

Iplacethesetextsbeforemyreadersasmatterforprivatemeditation.IpassontotheothergeneralremarkIpromisedtomake.

I ask you then to remark carefully, thatwhatever individual Christians have,are,andenjoy, incontradistinction to theworldlyandunconverted, theyowetotheagencyofGodtheHolySpirit.ByHimtheyarefirstcalled,quickened,andmadealive.ByHimtheyarebornagain,andmadenewcreatures.ByHimtheyareconvincedofsin,guidedintoalltruthandledtoChrist.ByHimtheyaresealeduntothe day of redemption.He dwells in them asHis living temples.Hewitnesseswiththeirspirits—givesthemthespiritofadoption,makesthemtocry 'AbbaFather',andmakes intercession for them.ByHimtheyaresanctified.ByHimthe loveofGod isshedabroad in theirhearts.ThroughHispower theyabound inhope.ThroughHimtheywaitforthehopeofrighteousnessbyfaith.ThroughHimtheymortifythedeedsof their bodies.AfterHim theywalk. InHim they live. In aword, all that believershavefromgracetoglory—allthattheyarefromthefirstmomenttheybelievetotheday theydepart tobewithChrist—all, all, allmaybe traced to theworkofGod theHolySpirit.(John6:63;3:8;16:9,10;Eph.4:30;1Cor.6:19;Rom.8:15,16,26;2Thess.2:13;Rom.5:5;15:13;Gal.5:5,25;Rom.8:1,13.)

Imaynottarrylongeronthisbranchofmysubject.ItrustIhavesaidenoughtoprovethatIdidnotusewordswithoutmeaning,whenIspokeoftheimportanceattachedinScripturetotheworkoftheSpiritofGod.

Before Ipasson letmeentreatallwho read thispaper tomake sure that theyholdsounddoctrineconcerningtheworkoftheHolySpirit.GiveHimthehonordueuntoHisname.GiveHiminyourreligiontheplaceandthedignitywhichScriptureassignsto Him. Settle it in your minds that the work of all three Persons in the blessedTrinity, is absolutely and equally needful to the salvation of every saved soul. The

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electionofGodtheFather,andtheatoningbloodofGodtheSon,arethefoundationstonesofour faith.But fromthemmustneverbeseparated theapplicatoryworkofGod theHoly Spirit. The Father chooses. The Sonmediates, absolves, justifies, andintercedes.TheHolySpiritappliesthewholeworktoman'ssoul.Alwaystogether inScripture, never separated in Scripture, let the offices of the three Persons in theTrinityneverbewrenchedasunderanddisjoinedinyourChristianity.WhatGodhassobeautifullyjoinedtogetherletnomandaretoputasunder.

"TogivetheHolySpiritdivineworship,ifhebenotGod,isidolatry;andtowithholdit,if He is God, is a heinous sin. To be well informed on this point, is of the greatstimportance."—HurrionontheHolySpirit.1731.

Acceptabrotherly cautionagainst all kindsofChristian teaching, falsely so called—which,eitherdirectlyorindirectly,dishonortheworkoftheHolySpirit.Bewareoftheerror,ononeside,whichpracticallysubstituteschurchmembershipandparticipationofthesacramentsfortheSpirit.LetnomanmakeyoubelievethattobebaptizedandgototheLord'sTable,isanysureproofthatyouhavetheSpiritofChrist.Bewareoftheerror,ontheotherside,whichproudlysubstitutestheinwardlight,socalled,andthescrapsofconsciencewhichremainineverymanafterthefall,forthesavinggraceof the Holy Spirit. Let noman make you believe that as a matter of course, sinceChristdied,allmenandwomenhavewithinthemtheSpiritofChrist.Itouchonthesepointsgently.Iwouldbesorrytowriteoneneedlesswordofcontroversy.ButIdosaytoeveryonewhoprizesrealChristianityinthesedays,"BeveryjealousabouttherealworkandofficeofthethirdPersonoftheTrinity."Testthespirits,toseewhethertheyareofGod.Provediligently themanydiversandstrangedoctrineswhichnow infecttheChurch.Andletthesubjectbroughtbeforeyouthisdaybeoneofyourprincipaltests.Testeverynewdoctrineoftheselattertimesbytwosimplequestions.Askfirst,"WhereistheLamb?"Andasksecondly,"WhereistheHolySpirit?"

"It is not the natural light of conscience, nor that improved by the Word, whichconvertsanymantoGod,althoughthisisthebestspringofmostmen'spracticalpartofreligion.But it is faith,bringing inanew light intoconscience,andsoconsciencelighting its candle-light at that sun which humbles for sin in anothermanner, anddrivespeople toChrist, sanctifies,changes,andwrites the law in theheart.Andthisyouwill findtobethestateofdifferencebetweenAugustine,andthePelagians,andsemi-Pelagians,whichthewholestreamandcurrentofhiswritingsagainstthemholdforth.Theywouldhavehadthe lightofnaturalconscience,and the seedsofnaturalvirtuesinpeople(asinphilosophers),beingimprovedbytherevelationoftheWord,tobethatgracewhichtheScripturespeaksof.Heproclaimsalltheirvirtues,andtheiruseofnatural light tobesins,becausedeficientofholiness,andrequires forusnotonlytherevelationoftheobjectsoffaith,whichelsenaturallightcouldnotfindout—butanewlighttoseethemwithal."—ThomasGoodwinontheWorkoftheHolySpirit.1704.

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II.The second point I propose to consider, is thenecessity of thework of theHolySpirittoman'ssalvation.

I invite special attention to this part of the subject. Let it be a settled thing in ourmindsthatthematterweareconsideringinthispaperisnomerespeculativequestioninreligion,aboutwhichitsignifieslittlewhatwebelieve.Onthecontrary,itliesattheveryfoundationofallsavingChristianity.WrongabouttheHolySpiritandHisoffices—andwearewrongtoalleternity!

ThenecessityoftheworkoftheHolySpiritarisesfromthetotalcorruptionofhumannature.Weareallbynature "dead in sins." (Eph.2:1.)However shrewd, and clever,andwise in the things of this world, we are all dead towardsGod. The eyes of ourunderstanding are blinded. We see nothing aright. Our wills, affections, andinclinationsarealienatedfromHimwhomadeus."ThecarnalmindisenmityagainstGod."(Rom.8:7.)Wehavenaturallyneitherfaith,norfear,norlove,norholiness. Inshort,lefttoourselves,wewouldneverbesaved.

Without the Holy Spirit no man ever turns to God, repents, believes, and obeys.Intellectual training and secular education alone make no true Christians.Acquaintancewithfineartsandscienceleadsnoonetoheaven.PicturesandstatuesneverbroughtonesoultoGod.The"tenderstrokesofart"neverpreparedanymanorwomanfor the judgmentday.Theybindupnobrokenheart; theyhealnowoundedconscience.TheGreekshadtheirZeuxisandParrhasius,theirPhidiasandPraxiteles,mastersasgreatintheirdayasanyinmoderntimes;yettheGreeksknewnothingofthewayofpeacewithGod.Theyweresunkingrossidolatry,andboweddowntotheworksof theirownhands.Themostzealouseffortsofministers alone cannotmakepeopleChristians.Theablestscripturalreasoninghasnoeffectonthemind;themostferventpulpiteloquencewillnotmovetheheart;thenakedtruthalonewillnotleadthewill.Wewho areministers know thiswell by painful experience.We can showpeoplethefountainoflivingwaters—butwecannotmakethemdrink.Weseemanyaonesittingunderourpulpitsyearafteryear,andhearinghundredsofsermons,fullofGospel truth, without the slightest result.Wemark him year after year, unaffectedandunmovedbyeveryScripturalargument—coldasthestonesonwhichhetreadsasheentersourchurch,unmovedas themarblestatuewhichadorns the tombagainstthewall—deadastheolddryoakofwhichhispewismade,feelinglessasthepaintedglassinthewindows,throughwhichthesunshinesonhishead.Welookathimwithwonderandsorrow,andrememberXavier'swordsashe lookedatChina, "Oh, rock,rock!whenwill you open?" Andwe learn by such cases as these, that nothingwillmakeaChristianbuttheintroductionintotheheartofanewnature,anewprinciple,andaDivineseedfromabove.

What is it thenthatmanneeds?Weneedtobe"bornagain,"and thisnewbirthwemust receive of theHoly Spirit. The Spirit of lifemust quicken us. The Spiritmust

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renewus.TheSpiritmusttakeawayfromustheheartofstone.TheSpiritmustputinus the heart of flesh. A new act of creationmust take place. A new beingmust becalledintoexistence.Withoutallthiswecannotbesaved.HereliesthemainpartofourneedoftheHolySpirit."ExceptamanbebornagainhecannotseethekingdomofGod."(John3:3.)Nosalvationwithoutanewbirth!

"ThisisthatwhichgivesuntotheministryoftheGospelbothitsgloryanditsefficacy.Takeaway theSpirit fromtheGospel,andyou render it adead letter, and leave theNewTestamentofnomoreuseuntoChristians than theOldTestament isunto theJews."—OwenontheHolySpirit.

"InthepoweroftheHolySpiritrestsallabilitytoknowGodandtopleaseHim.ItisHewhopurifiesthemindbyHissecretworking.HeenlightensthemindtoconceiveworthythoughtsofAlmightyGod."—Homily

Letusdismissfromourmindsforeverthecommonideathatnaturaltheology,moralpersuasion,logicalarguments,orevenanexhibitionofGospeltruth,aresufficientofthemselves to turna sinner fromhis sins, if oncebrought tobearuponhim. It is astrongdelusion.Theywillnotdoso.Theheartofmanisfarharderthanwefancy—the'old Adam' ismuchmore strong thanwe suppose. The shipswhich run aground athalf-ebb,willneverstiruntilthetideflows—theheartofmanwillneverlooktoChrist,repent,andbelieve,until theHolySpiritcomesdownuponit.Until thattakesplace,ourinnernatureisliketheearthbeforethepresentorderofcreationbegan,"withoutform and void, and darkness covering the face of the deep." (Gen. 1:2.) The samepower which said at the beginning, "Let there be light—and there was light," mustworkacreatingworkinus,orweshallneverrisetonewnessoflife.

ButIhavesomethingmoretosayyetonthisbranchofmysubject.ThenecessityoftheworkoftheSpirittoman'ssalvationisawidefield,andIhaveyetanotherremarktomakeuponit.

Isaythen,thatwithouttheworkoftheHolySpiritnomancouldeverbefittodwellwithGodinanotherworld.A fitnessof somekindwemusthave.Themerepardonofoursinswouldbeaworthlessgift,unlessaccompaniedbythegiftofanewnature, anature inharmony and in tunewith that ofGodHimself.Weneed afitnessforheaven,aswellasatitleforheaven,andthisfitnesswemustreceivefromtheHolySpirit.Wemustbemade"partakersofthedivinenature,"bytheindwellingoftheHolySpirit.(2Pet.1:4.)TheSpiritmustsanctifyourcarnalnatures,andmakethemlovespiritualthings.TheSpiritmustweanouraffectionsfromthingsbelow,andteachus to set themon thingsabove.TheSpiritmustbendour stubbornwills, andteachthemtobesubmissivetothewillofGod.TheSpiritmustwriteagainthelawofGodonourinwardman,andputHisfearwithinus.TheSpiritmusttransformusbythedailyrenewingofourminds,andimplantinustheimageofHimwhoseservants

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weprofesstobe.HereliestheothergreatpartofourneedoftheHolySpirit'swork.Weneedsanctificationnolessthanjustification,"WithoutholinessnomanshallseetheLord."(Heb.12:14.)

OncemoreIbeseechmyreaderstodismissfromtheirmindsthecommonidea,thatmenandwomenneednothingbutpardonandabsolution, inordertobepreparedtomeetGod.Itisastrongdelusion,andoneagainstwhichIdesirewithallmyhearttoplaceyouonyourguard.Itisnotenough,asmanyapoorignorantChristiansupposeson his death-bed, if God "pardons our sins and takes us to rest." I say againmostemphatically, it isnotenough.Theloveofsinmustbetakenfromus,aswellas theguiltofsinremoved; thedesireofpleasingGodmustbe implanted inus,aswellasthefearofGod'sjudgmenttakenaway;alovetoholinessmustbeengrafted,aswellasadreadofpunishmentremoved.Heavenitselfwouldbenoheaventousifweentereditwithoutanewheart.

AneternalSabbathandthesocietyofsaintsandangelscouldgiveusnohappinessinheaven,unlesstheloveofSabbathsandofholycompanyhadbeenfirstshedabroadinour hearts upon earth. Whether people will hear or forbear, the man who entersheavenmusthavethesanctificationoftheSpirit,aswellasthesprinklingofthebloodof Jesus Christ. To use the words of Owen, "When God designed the great andglorious work of recovering fallen man and saving sinners, He appointed in Hisinfinitewisdomtwogreatmeans.TheonewasthegivingofHisSonforthem;andtheother was the giving of his Spirit unto them. And hereby was way made for themanifestationofthegloryofthewholeblessedTrinity."

"GodtheFatherhadbuttwograndgiftstobestow;andwhenoncetheyweregiven,Hehad left then nothing that was great (comparatively) to give, for they contained allgood in them. These two gifts were His Son, who was His promise in the OldTestament,andtheSpirit, thepromiseof theNew."—ThomasGoodwinontheWorkoftheHolySpirit.1704.

ItrustIhavesaidenoughtoshowtheabsolutenecessityoftheworkoftheHolySpirittothesalvationofman'ssoul.Man'sutterinabilitytoturntoGodwithouttheSpirit—man's utter unfitness for the joys of heaven, without the Spirit—are two greatfoundation stones in revealed religion,which ought to be always deeply rooted in aChristian'smind.Rightlyunderstood, theywill lead tooneconclusion, "Without theSpirit,nosalvation!"

Wouldyou like toknowthereasonwhywewhopreach theGospel,preach sooftenabout conversion? We do it because of the necessities of men's souls. We do itbecauseweseeplainlyfromtheWordofGodthatnothingshortofathoroughchangeofheartwillevermeet theexigenciesof your case.Your case isnaturallydesperate.Your danger is great.Youneednotonly theatonementofJesusChrist—but

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the quickening, sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, to make you a trueChristian,anddeliveryoufromhell.GladlywouldIleadtoheavenallwhoreadthisvolume!Myheart'sdesireandprayertoGodisthatyoumaybesaved.ButIknowthat none enter heaven without a heart to enjoy heaven, and this heart we mustreceivefromGod'sSpirit.

ShallItellyouplainlythereasonwhysomereceivethesetruthssocoldly,andaresolittleaffectedby them?Youhearus listlessandunconcerned.You thinkusextremeandextravagantinourstatements.Andwhyisthis?Itisjustbecauseyoudonotseeorknowthediseaseofyourownsoul.Youarenotawareofyourownsinfulnessandweakness.Lowandinadequateviewsofyourspiritualdisease,aresuretobeaccompaniedby lowand inadequate viewsof the remedyprovided in theGospel.WhatshallIsaytoyou?Icanonlysay,"MaytheLordawakenyou!MaytheLordhavemercyonyoursoul!"Thedaymaycomewhenthescaleswillfallfromyoureyes,whenold thingswill pass away, and all things becomenew.And in that day Iforetell and forewarn you confidently that the first truth youwill grasp, next to theworkofChrist,willbetheabsolutenecessityoftheworkoftheHolySpirit.

III.The third thing I propose to consider, is theMANNER in which theHolySpiritworksontheheartsofthosewhoaresaved.

Iapproachthisbranchofmysubjectwithmuchdifficulty.Iamverysensiblethatitissurroundedwithdifficulties,andinvolvesmanyofthedeepestthingsofGod.Butitisfolly formortalman to turnaway fromany truth inChristianity,merelybecauseofdifficulties. Better a thousand times receive with meekness what we cannot fullyexplain,andbelievethatwhatweknownotnow,weshallknowhereafter."Enoughforus," says an old divine, "if we sit inGod's court, without pretending to be of God'scounsel."

In speaking of themanner of theHoly Spirit'sworking, I shall simply state certaingreatleadingfacts.TheyarefactsattestedalikebyScriptureandexperience.Theyarefactspatent to the eyes of every candid andwell instructedobserver.They are factswhichIbelieveitisimpossibletogainsay.

(a) I say then that the Holy Spirit works on the heart of a man in aMYSTERIOUSmanner.OurLordJesusChristHimself tellusthat inwell-knownwords, "Thewindblowswhere itwills, and youhear the sound thereof—but cannottellwhenceitcomesandwhereitgoes;soiseveryonethatisbornoftheSpirit."(John3:8.)WecannotexplainhowandinwhatwaytheAlmightySpiritcomesintoman,andoperates upon him; but neither also can we explain a thousand things which arecontinuallytakingplace inthenaturalworld.Wecannotexplainhowourwillsworkdailyonourbodilymembers,andmakethemwalk,ormove,orrest,atourdiscretion;yet no one ever thinks of disputing the fact. So ought it to bewith thework of the

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Spirit.Weoughttobelievethefact,thoughwecannotexplainthemanner.

(b)Isayfurthermore,thattheHolySpiritworksontheheartofamaninaSOVEREIGNmanner.Hecomes to one and does not come to another.He oftenconvertsoneinafamily,whileothersareleftalone.ThereweretwothievescrucifiedwithourLordJesusChristonCalvary.TheysawthesameSaviordying,andheardthesamewordscomefromHislips.YetonlyonerepentedandwenttoParadise,whiletheother died in his sins. ThereweremanyPharisees besides Saul,whohad a hand inStephen'smurder;butSaulalonebecameanapostle.ThereweremanyslavecaptainsinJohnNewton'stime;yetnonebuthebecameapreacheroftheGospel.Wecannotaccountforthis.Butneithercanweaccount forChinabeingaheathencountry,andEnglandaChristianland—weonlyknowthatsoitis.

(c)Isayfurthermore,thattheHolySpiritalwaysworksontheheartofamaninsuchamannerastobeFELT.IdonotforamomentsaythatthefeelingswhichHeproducesarealwaysunderstoodbythepersoninwhomtheyareproduced.Onthecontrary,theyareoftenacauseofanxiety,andconflict,andinwardstrife.AllImaintain is that we have no warrant of Scripture for supposing that there is anindwelling of the Spirit which is not felt at all. Where He is, there will always becorrespondingfeelings.

(d)Isayfurthermore,thattheHolySpiritalwaysworksontheheartofamaninsuchamannerastobeSEENINTHEMAN'SLIFE.Idonotsaythatassoon as He comes into a man, that man becomes immediately an establishedChristian,aChristianinwhoselifeandwaysnothingbutspiritualitycanbeobserved.But this I say—that the Almighty Spirit is never present in a person's soulwithoutproducing some perceptible results in that person's conduct! Henever sleeps—He is never idle. We have no warrant of Scripture for talking of"dormantgrace.""WhoeverisbornofGoddoesnotcommitsin;forhisseedremainsinhim."(1John3:9.)WheretheHolySpiritis,therewillbesomethingseen.

(e)Isayfurthermore,thattheHolySpiritalwaysworksontheheartofaman inan IRRESISTIBLEmanner. I do not deny for amoment that there aresometimesspiritualstrivingsandworkingsofconscienceinthemindsofunconvertedpeople, which finally come to nothing. But I say confidently, that when the Spiritreally begins a work of conversion, He always carries that work to perfection. Heeffectsmiraculouschanges.Heturnsthecharacterupsidedown.Hecausesoldthingsto pass away, and all things to becomenew. In aword, theHoly Spirit isAlmighty.WithHimnothingisimpossible.

(f) Isay, finally,under thishead, that theHolySpiritgenerallyworksontheheartofmanthroughtheUSEOFMEANS.TheWordofGod,preachedorread,isgenerallyemployedbyHimasaninstrumentintheconversionofasoul.He

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appliesthatWordtotheconscience—HebringsthatWordhometothemind.ThisisHis general course of procedure. There are instances, undoubtedly, inwhich peopleareconverted"withouttheWord."(1Pet.3:1.)But,asageneralrule,God'struthisthesword of the Spirit. By it He teaches, and teaches nothing else but that which iswrittenintheWord.

Icommendthesesixpointstotheattentionofallmyreaders.ArightunderstandingofthemsuppliesthebestantidotetothemanyfalseandspuriousdoctrinesbywhichSatanlaborstodarkentheblessedworkoftheSpirit.

(a)Isthereahaughty,high-mindedpersonreadingthispaper,whoinhisprideofintellect rejects the work of the Holy Spirit, because of its mysteriousness andsovereignty?Itellyouboldlythatyoumusttakeupothergroundthanthisbeforeyoudisputeanddenyourdoctrine.Looktotheheavenaboveyou,andtheearthbeneathyou,anddeny,ifyoucan,thattherearemysteriesthere.Looktothemapoftheworldyou live in, and themarvelous difference between the privileges of one nation andanother, and deny if you can, that there is sovereignty there. Go and learn to beconsistent.Submitthatproudmindofyourstoplainundeniablefacts.Beclothedwiththehumilitythatbefitspoormortalman.Castoffthataffectationofreasoning,underwhichyounowtrytosmotheryourconscience.DaretoconfessthattheworkoftheSpiritmaybemysteriousandsovereign,andyetforallthatistrue.

(b) Is there a Romanist, or semi-Romanist reading this paper, who tries topersuadehimselfthatallbaptizedpeople,andmembersoftheChurch,asamatterofcourse,havetheSpirit?Itellyouplainlythatyouaredeceivingyourself,ifyoudreamthattheSpiritisinaman,whenHispresencecannotbeseen.GoandlearnthisdaythatthepresenceoftheHolySpiritistobetested,notbythenameintheregister,ortheplaceinthefamilypew—butbythevisiblefruitsinaman'slife.

(c) Is there a worldly man reading this paper, who regards all claims to theindwelling of the Spirit as somuch enthusiasm and fanaticism? Iwarn you also totake heed what you are about. No doubt there is plenty of hypocrisy and falseprofessionintheChurches;nodoubttherearethousandswhosereligiousfeelingsaremeredelusion.Butcounterfeitmoneyisnoproofthatthereisnosuchthingasgoodcoin—the abuse of a thing does not destroy the use of it.The Bible tells usplainly that there are certain hopes, and joys, and sorrows, and inward feelings,inseparable fromtheworkof theSpiritofGod.Goand learn thisday thatyouhavenotreceivedtheSpirit,ifHispresencewithinyouhasnotbeenfelt.

(d)Isthereanexcuse-makingindolentpersonreadingthispaper,whocomfortshimselfwiththethoughtthatdecidedChristianityisanimpossiblething,andthatinaworldlikethishecannotserveChrist?Yourexcuseswillnotavailyou.ThepoweroftheHolySpirit isofferedtoyouwithoutmoneyandwithoutprice.Goandlearnthis

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daythatthereisstrengthtobehadfortheasking.ThroughtheSpirit,whomtheLordJesusofferstogivetoyou,alldifficultiesmaybeovercome.

(e)Isthereafanaticreadingthispaper,whofanciesthatitmattersnothingwhetheramanstaysathomeorgoestochurch,andthatifamanistobesaved,hewillbesavedinspiteofhimself?Itellyoualsothisday,thatyouhavemuchtolearn.GoandlearnthattheHolySpiritordinarilyworksthroughtheuseofmeansofgrace,andthatitisby"hearing"thatfaithgenerallycomesintothesoul."(Rom.10:17.)

I leave this branch of my subject here, and pass on. I leave it with a sorrowfulconviction that nothing in religion so shows the blindness of natural man as hisinability to receive the teaching of Scripture on the manner of the Holy Spirit'soperations.ToquotethesayingofourDivineMaster,"TheworldcannotreceiveHim."(John 14:17.) To use the words of Ambrose Serle, "This operation of the Spirit hasbeen,andeverwillbe,anincomprehensiblebusinesstothosewhohavenotknownitinthemselves.LikeNicodemus,andothermasters inIsrael, theywillreasonandre-reason, until they puzzle and perplex themselves, by darkening counsel withoutknowledge;andwhentheycannotmakeoutthematter,willgivethestrongestproofofallthattheyknownothingofit,byfrettingandraving,andcallinghardnames,andsaying,inshort,thatthereisnosuchthing."

IV.Ipropose,inthelastplace,toconsidertheMARKSandEVIDENCESbywhichthepresenceoftheHolySpiritinaman'sheartmaybeknown.

Lastasthispointcomesinorder,itisanythingbutlastinimportance.Infact,itisthatview of the Holy Spirit which demands the closest attention of every professingChristian.We have seen something of the place assigned to the Holy Spirit in theBible.WehaveseensomethingoftheabsolutenecessityoftheHolySpirittoaman'ssalvation.WehaveseensomethingofthemanneroftheHolySpirit'soperations.Andnowcomesthemightyquestion,whichoughttointeresteveryreader,"Howarewetoknowwhetherwearepartakersof theHolySpirit?Bywhatmarksmaywe findoutwhetherwehavetheSpiritofChrist?"

I will begin by taking it for granted that the question I have just asked may beanswered.WhereistheuseofourBibles,ifwecannotfindoutwhetherweareinthewaytoheaven?LetitbeasettledprincipleinourChristianity,thatamanmayknowwhetherornothehastheHolySpirit.Letusdismissfromourmindsonceandforeverthe many unscriptural evidences of the Spirit's presence with which thousandscontent themselves. Reception of the sacraments and membership of the visibleChurcharenoproofswhateverthatwe"havetheSpiritofChrist."Inshort,Icallitashortcut to the grossest antinomianism to talk of aman having theHoly Spirit—solongasheservessinandtheworld.

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ThepresenceoftheHolySpiritinaman'sheartcanonlybeknownbythefruits and effectsHeproduces.Mysterious and invisible tomortal eye asHisoperationsare,theyalwaysleadtocertainvisibleandtangibleresults.Justasyouknowthecompass-needletobemagnetizedby its turningtothenorth—justasyouknowthereislifeinatreebyitssap,buds,leavesandfruits—justasyouknowthereisasteersmanonboardashipbyitskeepingasteadyregularcourse—justsoyoumayknowtheSpirittobeinaman'sheartbytheinfluenceHeexercisesoverhis thoughts, affections, opinions, habits, and life. I lay this down broadly andunhesitatingly. I find no safe ground to occupy excepting this. I see no safeguardagainstthewildestenthusiasm,exceptinginthisposition.AndIseeitclearlymarkedout inourLordJesusChrist'swords, "Every tree is knownbyhis own fruit." (Luke6:44.)

ButwhatarethespecificfruitsbywhichthepresenceoftheSpiritintheheartmaybeknown?Ifindnodifficultyinansweringthatquestion.TheHolySpiritalwaysworksafteracertaindefinitepattern.Justas thebeealways forms thecellsof its comb inoneregularhexagonalshape,sodoestheSpiritofGodworkontheheartofmanwithoneuniformresult.Hisworkistheworkofamaster.Theworldmayseenobeautyinit—itisfoolishnesstothenaturalman.But"hewhoisspiritualdiscernsallthings."(1Cor.2:15.)Awell-instructedChristianknowswell thefruitsof theSpiritofGod.Letmebrieflysetthembeforeyouinorder.Theyareallclearandunmistakable,"plaintohimwhounderstands,andrighttothosewhofindknowledge."(Prov.8:9.)

(1)WheretheHolySpiritis,therewillalwaysbedeepconvictionofsin,andtruerepentanceforit.ItisHisspecialofficetoconvinceofsin.(John16:8.)HeshowstheexceedingholinessofGod.He teaches theexceedingcorruptionand infirmityofour nature. He strips us of our blind self-righteousness. He opens our eyes to ourawfulguilt,follyanddanger.Hefillstheheartwithsorrow,contrition,andabhorrenceforsin,astheabominablethingwhichGodhates.Hewhoknowsnothingofallthis,and saunters carelessly through life, thoughtless about sin, and indifferent andunconcernedabouthissoul,isadeadmanbeforeGod!HehasnottheSpiritofChrist.

(2)Where theHolySpirit is, therewill alwaysbe lively faith inJesusChrist,astheonlySavior. It isHis specialoffice to testifyofChrist, to takeof the thingsofChristandshowthemtoman.(John16:15.)Heleadsthesoulwhichfeels itssin, toJesus and the atonement made by His blood. He shows the soul that Christ hassufferedforsin,thejustfortheunjust,tobringustoGod.Hepointsouttothesin-sick soul thatwehaveonly to receiveChrist,believe inChrist, commitourselves toChrist, andpardon, peace, and life eternal, are at once our own.Hemakes us see abeautiful fitness in Christ's finished work of redemption to meet our spiritualnecessities.HemakesuswillingtodisclaimallmeritofourownandtoventureallonJesus, looking tonothing, restingonnothing, trusting innothingbutChrist,Christ,"delivered for our offences, and raised again for our justification." (Rom. 4:25.) He

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whoknowsnothingofallthis,andbuildsonanyotherfoundation,isdeadbeforeGod.HehasnottheSpiritofChrist.

(3) Where the Holy Spirit is, there will always be holiness of life andconversation.HeistheSpiritofholiness.(Rom.1:4.)HeisthesanctifyingSpirit.Hetakes away the hard, carnal, worldly heart of man, and puts in its place a tender,conscientious,spiritualheart,delightingintheWordofGod.HemakesamanturnhisfacetowardsGod,anddesireaboveallthingstopleaseHim,andturnhisbackonthefashionof thisworld,andno longermake that fashionhisGod.Hesows inaman'sheart theblessed seedsof "love, joy,meekness, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness,faith,temperance,"andcausestheseseedstospringupandbearpleasantfruit.(Gal.5:22.)Hewho lacks these things, and knowsnothing of daily practical godliness, isdeadbeforeGod.HehasnottheSpiritofChrist.

(4) Where the Holy Spirit is, there will always be the habit of earnest privateprayer.HeistheSpiritofgraceandsupplication.(Zech.12:10.)HeworksintheheartastheSpiritofadoption,wherebywecryAbba,Father.Hemakesamanfeel thathemustcrytoGod,andspeaktoGod—feebly,falteringly,weakly,itmaybe—butcryhemustabouthissoul.Hemakes itasnatural toamantoprayas it is toan infant tobreathe;withthisonedifference—thattheinfantbreatheswithoutaneffort,andthenew-born soul prays withmuch conflict and strife. He who knows nothing of real,living,fervent,privateprayer,andiscontentwithsomeoldform,orwithnoprayeratall—isdeadbeforeGod.HehasnottheSpiritofChrist.

(5) Finally,where theHoly Spirit is, therewill always be loveand reverence forGod'sWord.Hemakesthenew-bornsouldesirethesinceremilkoftheWord,justastheinfantdesiresitsnaturalfood.Hemakesit"delightinthelawoftheLord."(1Pet. 2:2; Psalm. 1:2.) He shows man a fullness, and depth, and wisdom, andsufficiency,intheHolyScripture,whichisutterlyhidfromanaturalman'seyes.HedrawshimtotheWordwithanirresistibleforce,asthelightandlantern,andmanna,andsword,whichareessentialtoasafejourneythroughthisworld.IfthemancannotreadHemakeshim love tohear—ifhecannothearHemakeshim love tomeditate.ButtotheWordtheSpiritalwaysleadshim.HewhoseesnospecialbeautyinGod'sBible,andtakesnopleasureinreading,hearing,andunderstandingit,isdeadbeforeGod.HehasnottheSpiritofChrist.

I place these five grand marks of the Spirit's presence before my readers, andconfidentlyclaimattentiontothem.Ibelievetheywillbearinspection.Iamnotafraidoftheirbeingsearched,criticized,andcross-examined.RepentancetowardGod—faithtowardourLordJesusChrist—holinessofheartandlife—habitsofrealprivateprayer—loveandreverencetowardGod'sWord—thesearetherealproofsof the indwellingoftheHolySpiritinaman'ssoul.WhereHeis,thesemarkswillbeseen.WhereHeisnot,thesemarkswillbelacking.

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I grant freely that the leadingsof theSpirit, in someminute details, are not alwaysuniform.ThepathsoverwhichHeconducts souls, arenot alwaysprecisely one andthe same. The experience that true Christians pass through in their beginnings isoften somewhat various. This only I maintain—that the main road into which theSpiritleadspeople,andthefinalresultswhichHeatlengthproduces,arealwaysalike.Inall trueChristians, the five greatmarks I have alreadymentionedwill always befound.

IgrantfreelythatthedegreeanddepthoftheworkoftheSpiritintheheartmayvaryexceedingly.There isweak faithandstrong faith—weak loveandstronglove—abrighthope and adimhope—a feeble obedience toChrist'swill, and a closefollowing of the Lord. This only I maintain—that the main outlines of religiouscharacterinallwhohavetheSpirit,perfectlycorrespond.Life is life,whetherstrongor feeble. The infant in arms, though weak and dependent, is as real and true arepresentativeofthegreatfamilyofAdamasthestrongestmanalive.

Whereveryouseethesefivegreatmarks,youseeatrueChristian.Let thatneverbeforgotten.Ileaveittootherstoexcommunicateandunchurchallwhodonotbelongto theirowndenomination,anddonotworshipafter theirownparticular fashion. Ihavenosympathywithsuchnarrow-mindedness.Showmeamanwhorepents,andbelievesinChristcrucified—wholivesaholylife,anddelightsinhisBibleandprayer—and I desire to regard him as a brother. I see in him amember of the universalChristianChurch,outofwhichthere isnosalvation.Ibehold inhimanheirof thatcrownofglorywhichisincorruptibleandfadesnotaway.IfhehastheHolySpirit,hehasChrist.IfhehasChrist,hehasGod.IfhehasGodtheFather,GodtheSon,andGod the Spirit, all things are his. Who am I that I should turn my back on him,becausewecannotseeallthingseyetoeye?

Wherever these five greatmarks of the Spirit are lacking, we have just cause to beafraid about a man's soul. Visible Churches may endorse him, sacraments may beadministeredtohim,formsofprayermaybereadoverhim,ministersmaycharitablyspeakofhimas"abrother,"butallthisdoesnotaltertherealstateofthings.Themanisinthebroadwaythatleadstodestruction.WithouttheSpiritheiswithoutChrist.WithoutChristheiswithoutGod.WithoutGodtheFather,GodtheSon,andGodtheSpirit,heisinimminentdanger.TheLordhavemercyuponhissoul!

Ihastenonnowtowardsaconclusion.IdesiretowindupallIhavebeensayingbyafewwordsofdirectPERSONALAPPLICATION.

(1)Inthefirstplace,letmeaskaQUESTIONofallwhoreadthispaper.Itisashortandsimpleone,andgrowsnaturallyoutof thesubject. "Haveyou,orhaveyounot,theSpiritofChrist?"

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Iamnotafraidtoaskthisquestion.Iwillnotbestoppedbythecommonplaceremarkthatitisabsurd,enthusiastic,unreasonabletoasksuchquestionsinthepresentday.ItakemystandonaplaindeclarationorScripture.IfindaninspiredApostlesaying,"IfanyonedoesnothavetheSpiritofChrist,hedoesnotbelongtoHim."Iwanttoknowwhatcanbemorereasonablethantopressonyourconsciencetheinquiry,"HaveyoutheSpiritofChrist?"

Iwill not be stopped by the foolish observation, that noman can tell in thisworldwhetherornothehastheSpirit.Nomancantell!ThenwhatwastheBiblegiventousfor?WhatistheuseoftheScriptures ifwecannotdiscoverwhetherwearegoingtoheavenorhell?ThethingIaskcanbeknown.TheevidencesoftheSpirit'spresenceinthesoularesimple,plain,andintelligible.Nohonestinquirerneedsmissthewayinthismatter.YoumayfindoutwhetheryouhavetheHolySpirit.

IentreatyounottoevadethequestionIhavenowasked.Ibeseechyoutoallowittowork inwardly inyourheart. I chargeyou,aseveryouwouldbe saved, togive it anhonest answer. Baptism, Church-membership, respectability, morality, outwardcorrectness,areallexcellentthings.Butdonotbecontentwiththem.Godeeper—lookfurther."HaveyoureceivedtheHolySpirit?HaveyoutheSpiritofChrist?"

"It is a good sign of grace when a man is willing to search and examine himself,whetherheisgraciousornot.ThereisacertaininstinctinachildofGod,wherebybenaturallydesirestohavethetitleofhislegitimationtried;whereasahypocritedreadsnothingmorethantohavehisrottennesssearchedinto."—Hopkins.

(2)Letme,inthenextplace,offerasolemnWARNINGtoallwhofeelintheirownconsciencesthattheyhavenottheSpiritofChrist.Thatwarningisshortandsimple.IfyouhavenottheSpirit,youarenotyetChrist'speople—youare"noneofHis."

Thinkforamomenthowmuchisinvolvedinthosefewwords,"noneofHis."Youarenotwashed inChrist'sblood!Youarenotclothed inHis righteousness!Youarenotjustified!Youarenotintercededfor!Yoursinsareyetuponyou!Thedevilclaimsyouforhisown!Thepitopenshermouthforyou!Thetormentsofhellwaitforyou!

Ihavenodesiretocreateneedlessfear.Ionlywantsensiblepeopletolookcalmlyatthings as they are. I onlywant one plain text of Scripture to be dulyweighed. It iswritten,"IfanymanhasnottheSpiritofChrist,heisnoneofHis."AndIsayinthesightofsuchatext,ifyoudiewithouttheSpirit,itwouldhavebeenbetterifyouneverhadbeenborn.

(3)Letme,inthenextplace,giveanearnestINVITATIONtoallwhofeelthattheyhavenottheSpirit.Thatinvitationisshortandsimple.GoandcrytoGodthisdayinthenameoftheLordJesusChrist,andprayfortheHolySpirittobepoureddownon

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your soul. There is every possible encouragement to do this. There is warrant ofScripturefordoingit."Turnatmyreproof,IwillpouroutmySpirituponyou.Iwillmakeknownmywordsuntoyou.""Ifyou,beingevil,knowhowtogivegoodgiftstoyour children, how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit tothosewhoaskHim." (Prov. 1:23;Luke 11:13.)There iswarrant in the experienceofthousandsfordoingit.Thousandswillriseatthelastday,andtestifythatwhentheyprayedtheywereheard,andwhentheysoughtgrace,theyfoundit.Aboveall,thereiswarrantinthepersonandcharacterofourLordJesusChrist.Hewaitstobegracious.HeinvitessinnerstocometoHim.Herejectsnonethatcome.Hegives"powertoallwhoreceiveHimbyfaithandcometoHim,tobecomethesonsofGod."(John1:12.)

GothentoJesus,asaneedy,wanting,humble,contritesinner,andyoushallnotgoinvain. Cry to Him mightily about your soul, and you shall not cry to no purpose.Confess toHimyourneed, and guilt, and fear, and danger, andHewill not despiseyou.Ask,andyoushallreceive.Seek,andyoushallfind.Knock,anditshallbeopenedtoyou.Itestifytothechiefofsinnersthisday,thatthereisenoughinChrist,andtospare,foryoursoul.Come,come—come,thisveryday.CometoChrist!

(4)Letme,inthelastplace,giveapartingwordofEXHORTATIONtoallreadersofthispaperwhohave received theSpirit ofChrist—to thepenitent, thebelieving, theholy, the praying, the lovers of theWord of God. That exhortation shall consist ofthreesimplethings.

(a)Foronething,bethankfulfortheSpirit.Whohasmadeyoutodiffer?Whencecameallthesefeelinginyourheart,whichthousandsaroundyouknownot,andyouyourselfknewnotatonetime?Towhatdoyouowethatsenseofsin,andthatdrawingtowardsChrist,andthathungerandthirstafterrighteousness,andthattastefortheBible and prayer, which, with all your doubts and infirmities, you find within yoursoul? Did these things come of nature? Oh, no! Did you learn these things in theschools of this world? Oh, no! no! They are all of grace. Grace sowed them, gracewateredthem,gracebeganthem,gracehaskeptthemup.Learntobemorethankful.PraiseGodmoreeverydayyoulive—praiseHimmoreinprivate,praiseHimmoreinpublic,praiseHiminyourownfamily,praiseHimaboveallinyourownheart.Thisisthewaytobeintuneforheaven.Theanthemtherewillbe,"WhathasGodwrought?"

(b)Foranotherthing,befilledwiththeSpirit.SeektobemoreandmoreunderHisblessed influence. Strive to have every thought, and word, and action, and habit,brought under obedience to the leadings of the Holy Spirit. Grieve Him not byinconsistencies and conformity to theworld. QuenchHim not by triflingwith littleinfirmitiesandsmallbesettingsins.SeekrathertohaveHimrulingandreigningmorecompletelyoveryoueveryweekthatyoulive.Praythatyoumayyearlygrowingrace,andintheknowledgeofChrist.Thisisthewaytodogoodtotheworld.AneminentChristian is a light-house—seen far andwide by others, and doing good tomyriads,

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whomheneverknows.Thisisthewaytoenjoymuchinwardcomfortinthisworld,tohave bright assurance in death, to leave broad evidences behind us, and at last toreceiveagreatcrown.

(c)Finally,praydailyforagreatoutpouringoftheSpiritontheChurchandontheworld.Thisisthegrandneedoftheday—itisthethingthatweneedfarmorethanmoney,machinery,andmen.The"companyofpreachers"inChristendomisfargreaterthanitwasinthedaysofPaul;buttheactualspiritualworkdoneintheearth,in proportion to the means used, is undoubtedly far less. We need more of thepresenceoftheHolySpirit—moreinthepulpit,andmoreinthecongregation—morein thepastoral visit, andmore in the school.WhereHe is, therewill be life,health,growth,andfruitfulness.WhereHeisnot—allwillbedead,tame,formal,sleepy,andcold.Thenleteveryonewhodesirestoseeanincreaseofpureandundefiledreligion,praydaily formoreof thepresenceof theHoly Spirit in every branchof the visibleChurchofChrist.

HavingtheSpirit

"Worldlypeople,whodonothavetheSpirit."Jude19

I take it for granted that every reader of this paper believes in theHoly Spirit. Thenumber of people in this countrywho are infidels, deists, or Socinians, and openlydeny the doctrine of the Trinity, is happily not very great. Most people have beenbaptizedinthenameoftheFather,andoftheSon,andoftheHolySpirit.TherearefewChurchmen,atanyrate,whohavenotoftenheardthewell-knownwordsofouroldCatechism, "Ibelieve inGod theHolySpirit,whosanctifiesmeandall theelectpeopleofGod."

But,notwithstandingall this, itwouldbewell formany if theywouldconsiderwhattheyknowoftheHolySpiritbeyondHisname.Whatexperimentalacquaintancehaveyou with the Spirit's work? What has He done for you? What benefit have youreceivedfromHim?YoucansayofGodtheFather,"Hemademeandalltheworld."You can say of God the Son, "He died for me and all mankind." But can you sayanything about the Holy Spirit? Can you say, with any degree of confidence, "Hedwells inme,andsanctifiesme"? Inoneword,Haveyou theSpirit?The textwhichheadsthispaperwilltellyouthatthereissuchathingas"nothavingtheSpirit."ThisisthepointwhichIpressuponyourattention.

Ibelievethepointtobeoneofvital importanceatallseasons.Ihold it tobeoneof

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special importance in thepresentday. I consider that clear viewsabout theworkofthe Holy Spirit are among the best preservatives against the many false doctrineswhichaboundinourtimes.Allowmethen, to laybeforeyoua fewthings,whichbyGod'sblessing,maythrowlightonthesubjectofhavingtheSpirit.

I.Letmeexplaintheimmenseimportanceof"HavingtheSpirit."

II. Letmepoint out the great general principle bywhich alone the question can betried,"HaveyoutheSpirit?"

III. Let me describe the particular effects which the Spirit always produces on thesoulsinwhichHedwells.

I.Let me, in the first place,explain the immense importance of having theSpirit.

Itisabsolutelynecessarytomakethispointclear.Unlessyouseethis,Ishallappearlikeonebeatingtheairallthroughthispaper.Onceletyourmindlayholdonthis,andhalftheworkIwanttodoisalreadydoneforyoursoul.

Icaneasilyfancysomereadersaying,Idonotseetheuseofthisquestion!SupposingIhavenot theSpirit,what is themightyharm? I try todomyduty in thisworld—Iattendmychurch regularly—I receive theSacramentoccasionally—Ibelieve I amasgoodaChristianasmyneighbors.Isaymyprayers—ItrustGodwillpardonmysinsforChrist'ssake.IdonotseewhyIshouldnotreachheavenatlast,withouttroublingmyselfwithhardquestionsabouttheSpirit."

Iftheseareyourthoughts,Ientreatyoutogivemeyourattentionforafewminutes,while I try to supply youwith reasons for thinking differently. Believeme, nothinglessthanyoursoul'ssalvationdependson"HavingtheSpirit."Lifeordeath;heavenorhell;eternalhappinessoreternalmisery;areboundupwiththesubjectofthispaper.

(a) Remember, for one thing, if youhavenot theSpirit, youhavenopart inChrist,andnotitletoheaven.

Thewords of Paul are express and unmistakable, "If anyman has not the Spirit ofChrist,hedoesnotbelongtoHim."(Rom.8:9.)ThewordsofJohnarenolessclear,"HerebyweknowthatHeabidesinusbytheSpiritwhomHehasgivenus."(1John3:24.)TheindwellingofGodtheHolySpiritisthecommonmarkofalltruebelieversinChrist.ItistheShepherd'smarkontheflockoftheLordJesus,distinguishingthemfrom the rest of theworld. It is the goldsmith's stampon the genuine sonsofGod,whichseparatesthemfromthedrossandmassoffalseprofessors.ItistheKing'sownsealonthosewhoareHispeculiarpeople,provingthemtobeHisownproperty.Itis"thepledge"whichtheRedeemergivestoHisbelievingdiscipleswhiletheyareinthe

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body,asatokenofthefullandcomplete"redemption"yettocomeintheresurrectionmorning.(Ephes.1:14.)Thisisthecaseofallbelievers.TheyallhavetheSpirit.

LetitbedistinctlyunderstoodthathewhohasnottheSpirithasnotChrist.HewhohasnotChristhasnopardonofhissins—nopeacewithGod—notitletoheaven—nowell-groundedhopeofbeingsaved.Hisreligionislikethehousebuiltonthesand.Itmaylookwellinfineweather.Itmaysatisfyhiminthetimeofhealthandprosperity.Butwhen the flood rises, and thewind blows—when sickness and trouble come upagainsthim, itwill fall andburyhimunder its ruins.He liveswithoutagood hope,andwithoutagoodhopehedies.Hewillriseagainonlytobemiserable.Hewillstandinthejudgmentonlytobecondemned;hewillseesaintsandangelslookingon,andremember hemight have been among them—but too late; he will see lostmyriadsaroundhim,andfindtheycannotcomforthim—but too late.Thiswillbe theendofthemanwhothinkstoreachheavenwithouttheSpirit.

Settle thesethingsdowninyourmemory,and let themneverbe forgotten.Are theynotworthremembering?NoHolySpiritinyou—nopartinChrist!NopartinChrist—noforgivenessofsins!Noforgivenessofsins—nopeacewithGod!NopeacewithGod—notitletoheaven!Notitletoheaven—noadmissionintoheaven!Noadmissionintoheaven—and what then? Yes—what then? You may well ask. Where will you flee?Whichwaywill you turn?Towhat refugewill you run?There is none at all. Thereremainsnothingbuthell.Notadmittedintoheaven--youmustsinkatlastintohell.

IaskeveryreaderofthispapertomarkwellwhatIsay.Perhaps it startlesyou—butmayitnotbegoodforyoutobestartled?HaveItoldyouanythingmorethansimplescripturaltruth?Whereisthedefectivelinkinthechainofreasoningyouhaveheard?Whereistheflawintheargument?Ibelieveinmyconsciencethereisnone.FromnothavingtheSpirittobeinginhell,thereisbutalongflightofdownwardsteps.LivingwithouttheSpirit,youarealreadyonthetop;dyingwithouttheSpirit,youwill findyourwaytothebottom!

(b) Remember, for another thing, if you have not the Spirit you have noholinessofheart,andnofitnessforheaven.

Heavenistheplacetowhichallpeoplehopetogoaftertheydie.Itwouldbewellformany if they considered calmly what kind of dwelling-place heaven is. It is thehabitationoftheKingofkings,whois"ofpurereyesthantobeholdiniquity,"anditmustneedsbeaholyplace.ItisaplaceintowhichScripturetellsusthereshallenterin nothing "that defiles, neither whatever works abomination." (Rev. 21:27.) It is aplace where there shall be nothing wicked, sinful, or sensual—nothing worldly,foolish,frivolous,orprofane.There,letthecovetousmanremember,shallbenomoremoney. There, let the pleasure seeker remember, shall be no more races, theaters,novel reading,orballs.There, let thedrunkardandthegambler, remember,shallbe

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nomorestrongdrink,nomoredice,nomorebetting,nomorecards.TheeverlastingpresenceofGod,saints,andangels—theperpetualdoingofGod'swill—thecompleteabsenceofeverythingwhichGoddoesnotapprove—thesearethechiefthingswhichshallmakeupheaven.ItshallbeaneternalSabbathday.

Forthisheavenweareallbynatureutterlyunfit.Wehavenocapacityforenjoyingitshappiness.Wehaveno taste for itsblessings.Wehavenoeye to see itsbeauty.Wehave no heart to feel its comforts. Instead of freedom, we would find it bondage.Insteadofgloriousliberty,wewouldfinditconstantconstraint.Insteadofasplendidpalace,wewouldfinditagloomyprison.Afishondryland,asheepinthewater,aneagleinacage--wouldallfeelmoreateaseandintheirplacethananunholymaninheaven."WithoutholinessnomanshallseetheLord."(Heb.12:14.)

For thisheaven it is the special officeof theHolySpirit to preparemen's souls.Healonecanchangetheearthlyheart,andpurifythecorruptworldlyaffectionsofAdam'schildren.Healonecanbringtheirminds intoharmonywithGod,andtunethemfortheeternalcompanyofsaints,andangels,andChrist.HealonecanmakethemlovewhatGodloves,andhatewhatGodhates,anddelightinGod'spresence.Healonecansetthelimbsofhumannature,whichwerebrokenanddislocatedbyAdam'sfall,andbringaboutarealunitybetweenman'swillandGod's.AndthisHedoesforeveryonethatissaved.Itiswrittenofbelieversthattheyare"savedaccordingtoGod'smercy,"but it is "by thewashingof regeneration,andrenewingof theHolySpirit."Theyarechosenuntosalvation—butitis"throughsanctificationoftheSpirit,"aswellas"beliefofthetruth."(Titus3:5;2Thess.2:13.)

Letthisalsobewrittendownonthetabletofyourmemory.Noentranceintoheaven,withouttheSpiritfirstenteringyourheartuponearth!Noadmissionintogloryinthenextlifewithoutprevioussanctificationinthislife!NoHolySpiritinyouinthisworld—thennoheavenintheworldtocome!Youwouldnotbefitforit!Youwouldnotbereadyforit!Youwouldnotlikeit!Youwouldnotenjoyit!Thereismuchusemadeinthepresentdayoftheword"holy."Ourearsareweariedwith"holychurch,"and"holybaptism," and "holy days," and "holywater," and" holy services," and "holy priests."Butone thing isa thousand timesmore important—and that is, tobemadea reallyholymanbytheSpirit.WemustbemadepartakersoftheDivinenature,whilewearealive.Wemust"sowtotheSpirit,"ifwewouldeverreaplifeeverlasting.(2Peter1:4;Gal.6:8.)

(c)Remember,foranotherthing,ifyouhavenottheSpirit,youhavenorighttobeconsideredatrueChristian,andnowillorpowertobecomeone.

Itrequireslittletomakea'Christian'accordingtothestandardoftheworld.Onlyletamanbebaptizedandattendsomeplaceofworship,andtherequirementsoftheworldaresatisfied.Theman'sbeliefmaynotbesointelligentasthatofaTurk—hemaybe

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profoundlyignorantoftheBible.Theman'spracticemaybenobetter thanthatofaheathen—manyarespectableHindumightputhimtoshame.Butwhatofthat?Heisan Englishman! He has been baptized! He goes to church or chapel, and behavesdecentlywhenthere!Whatmorewouldyouhave?IfyoudonotcallhimaChristianyouarethoughtveryuncharitable!

But it takesagreatdealmorethanthis tomakeamanarealChristianaccording tothestandardof theBible. Itrequires thecooperationofall theThreePersonsof theBlessedTrinity.TheelectionofGodtheFather—thebloodandintercessionofGodtheSon—thesanctificationofGodtheSpirit—mustallmeettogetheronthesoulthatistobe saved. Father, Son, andHoly Spiritmust unite to work thework ofmaking anychildofAdamatrueChristian.

This isadeepsubject,andone thatmustbehandledwith reverence.Butwhere theBiblespeakswithdecision,therewemayalsospeakwithdecision;andthewordsoftheBiblehavenomeaningiftheworkoftheHolySpiritbenotjustasneedfulinordertomakeamanatrueChristian,astheworkoftheFatherortheworkoftheSon."Noman,"we are told, "can say that Jesus is the Lord—but by theHoly Spirit." (1 Cor.12:3.)TrueChristians,wearetaughtinScripture,are"bornoftheSpirit."TheyliveintheSpirit;theyareledbytheSpirit;bytheSpirittheymortifythedeedsofthebody;byoneSpirittheyhaveaccessthroughJesusuntotheFather.TheirgracesareallthefruitoftheSpirit;theyarethetempleoftheHolySpirit;theyareahabitationofGodthrough the Spirit; they walk after the Spirit; they are strengthened by the Spirit.Through theSpirit theywait for the hope of righteousness by faith. (John 3:6;Gal.5:25;Rom.8:13,14;Eph.2:18;Gal.5:22;1Cor.6:19;Eph.2:22;Rom.8:4;Eph.3:16;Gal.5:5.)TheseareplainScripturalexpressions.Whowilldaretogainsaythem?

The truth is that the deep corruption of human nature would make salvationimpossibleifitwerenotfortheworkoftheSpirit.WithoutHimtheFather'sloveandtheSon'sredemptionaresetbeforeusinvain.TheSpiritmustrevealthem,theSpiritmustapplythem,orelsewearelostsouls!

NothinglessthanthepowerofHimwhomovedonthefaceofthewatersinthedayofcreationcaneverraiseus fromour lowestate.Hewhosaid, "Let therebe light,andtherewaslight,"mustspeakthewordbeforeanyoneofuswilleverrisetonewnessoflife.HewhocamedownonthedayofPentecost,mustcomedownonourpoordeadsouls,beforetheywilleverseethekingdomofGod.Merciesandafflictionsmaymovethesurfaceofourhearts—buttheyalonewillneverreachtheinnerman.Sacraments,andservices,andsermonsmayproduceoutwardformality,andclotheuswitha'skinof religion'—but there will be no life. Ministers may make communicants, and fillchurcheswith regularworshipers—the almighty power of theHoly Spirit alone canmaketrueChristians,andfillheavenwithglorifiedsaints.

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Letthisalsobewritteninyourmemory,andneverforgotten.NoHolySpirit—notrueChristianity!YoumusthavetheSpiritinyou,aswellasChristforyou--ifyouareevertobesaved.Godmustbeyour lovingFather,JesusmustbeyourknownRedeemer,theHolySpiritmustbeyour feltSanctifier,orelse itwillbebetter foryounever tohavebeenborn!

Ipressthesubjectontheseriousconsiderationofallwhoreadthesepages.ItrustIhavesaidenoughtoshowyouthatitisofvital importancetoyoursoulto"havetheSpirit."Thisisnoabstruseandmysteriouspointofdivinity; it isnonicequestionofwhichthesolutionmatterslittleonewayoranother.Itisasubjectinwhichisbounduptheeverlastingpeaceofyoursoul.

You may not like the tidings. You may call it wild enthusiasm, or fanaticism, orextravagance.ItakemystandontheplainteachingoftheBible.IsaythatGodmustdwellinyourheartbytheSpiritonearth--oryouwillneverdwellwithGodinheaven.

"Ah,"youmaysay,"Idonotknowmuchaboutit.ItrustGodwillbemerciful.IhopeIshallgotoheavenafterall."Ianswer,Nomaneveryet tastedofChrist'smercywhodid not also receive of His Spirit. No man was ever justified who was not alsosanctified.NomaneverwenttoheavenwhowasnotledtherebytheSpirit.

II.Letme, in thesecondplace,pointoutthegreatgeneralruleandprinciplebywhichthequestionmaybedecided,whetherwehavetheSpirit.

I can quite understand that the idea of knowing whether we "have the Spirit" isdisagreeabletomanyminds.IamnotignorantoftheobjectionswhichSatanatoncestirsupinthenaturalheart."Itisimpossibletoknowit,"saysoneperson,"itisadeepthing, and beyond our reach." "It is too mysterious a thing to inquire into," saysanother, "we must be content to leave the subject in uncertainty." "It is wrong topretend toknowanythingabout it," saysa third, "wewerenevermeant to look intosuchquestions.ItisonlyfitforenthusiastsandfanaticstotalkofhavingtheSpirit."Ihear such objections without being moved by them. I say that it can be knownwhether a man has the Spirit. It can be known—it may be known, it ought to beknown.Itneedsnovision fromheaven,no revelation fromanangel todiscern it; itneeds nothing but calm inquiry by the light of God'sWord. Let us enter upon thatinquiry.

AllpeoplehavenottheHolySpirit.Iregardthedoctrineofan 'inwardspiritual lightenjoyedbyallmankind'asanunscripturaldelusion. I believe themodernnotionofuniversal salvation to be a baseless dream. Without controversy, God has not leftHimself without a witness in the heart of fallen man. He has left in every mindsufficient knowledge of right and wrong to make all people responsible andaccountable.HehasgiventoeverychildofAdamaconscience—butHehasnotgiven

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toeverychildofAdamtheHolySpirit.AmanmayhavegoodwisheslikeBalaam,domanythingslikeHerod,bealmostpersuadedlikeAgrippa,andtremblelikeFelix,andyetbeasutterlydestituteofthegraceoftheSpiritasthesepeoplewere.Paultellsusthatbeforeconversionpeoplemay"knowGod"inacertainsense,andhave"thoughtsaccusingorexcusingoneanother."Buthealsotellsusthatbeforeconversionpeopleare "without God" and "without Christ," have "no hope," and are "darkness" itself.(Rom.1:21;2:15;Eph.2:12;5:8.)TheLordJesusHimselfsaysoftheSpirit,"TheworldseesHimnot,neitherknowsHim—butyouknowHim, forHedwellswithyou, andshallbeinyou."(John14:17.)

AllmembersofChurchesandbaptizedpeoplehavenottheSpirit.IseenogroundinScriptureforsayingthateverymanwhoreceivesbaptismreceivestheHolySpirit,andthatweoughttoregardhimasbornoftheSpirit.IdarenottellbaptizedpeoplethattheyallhavetheSpirit,andthattheyonlyneed"stirupthegiftofGod"withintheminordertobesaved.Isee,onthecontrary, thatJudespeaksofmembersof thevisibleChurchinhisdayas"nothavingtheSpirit."Someofthemprobablyhadbeenbaptizedby the hands of apostles, and admitted into full communion with the professingChurch.Nomatter!they"hadnottheSpirit."(Jude19.)

It is vain to attempt to evade thepower of this single expression. It teaches plainlythat "having the Spirit "is not the lot of every man, and not the portion of everymemberof the visibleChurchofChrist. It shows thenecessity of finding out somegeneral rule and principle by which the presence of the Spirit in a man may beascertained.Hedoesnotdwellineveryone.BaptismandchurchmanshiparenoproofsofHispresence.How,then,shallIknowwhetheramanhastheSpirit?

ThepresenceoftheSpiritinaman'ssoulcanonlybeknownbytheeffectswhichHeproduces.ThefruitsHecausestobebrought forth inaman'sheartand life,are theonlyevidencewhichcanbedependedon.Aman'sfaith,aman'sopinions,andaman'spractice,arethewitnesseswemustexamine,ifwewouldfindoutwhetheramanhastheSpirit.This istheruleof theLordJesus,"Everytree isknownbyhisownfruit."(Luke6:44.)

TheeffectswhichtheHolySpiritproducesmayalwaysbeseen.Themanoftheworldmay not understand them—they may in many cases be feeble and indistinct; butwheretheSpiritis,Hewillnotbehidden.HeisnotidlewhenHeenterstheheart.Hedoesnotliestill.Hedoesnotsleep.HewillmakeHispresenceknown.Hewillshineoutlittlebylittlethroughthewindowsofaman'sdailyhabitsandconversation,andmanifest to theworld thatHe is in him.Adormant, torpid, silent indwelling of theSpirit is a notion that pleases theminds ofmany. It is a notion forwhich I see noauthority in theWordofGod. Iholdentirelywith theHomily forWhit-Sunday, "Asthetreeisknownbyhisfruit,soisalsotheHolySpirit."

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InwhoeverIseetheeffectsandfruitsoftheSpirit,inthatmanIseeonewhohastheSpirit.Ibelieveittobenotonlycharitabletothinkso—butpresumptiontodoubtit.IdonotexpecttobeholdtheHolySpiritwithmybodilyeyes,ortotouchHimwithmyhands.But I need no angel to come down to showmewhereHe dwells. I need novisionfromheaventotellmewhereImayfindHim.Onlyshowmeamaninwhomthe fruits of theSpirit are tobe seen, and I see onewho "has theSpirit." Iwill notdoubt the inwardpresenceof thealmightycause,whenI see theoutward factofanevidenteffect.

CanIsee thewindonastormyday?Icannot—butIcansee theeffectsof its forceandpower.WhenI see thecloudsdrivenbefore it, and the treesbendingunder it—whenIhear itwhistlingthroughdoorsandwindows,orhowlingroundthechimneytops,Idonotforamomentdoubtitsexistence.Isay,"Thereisawind."Justsoit iswiththepresenceoftheSpiritinthesoul.

CanIseethedewofheavenasitfallsonasummerevening?Icannot.Itcomesdownsoftly and gently, noiseless and imperceptible. But when I go forth in themorningafteracloudlessnight,andseeeveryleafsparklingwithmoisture,andfeeleverybladeofgrassdampandwet, I sayatonce, "Therehasbeenadew."Just so it iswith thepresenceoftheSpiritinthesoul.

CanIseethehandofthesowerwhenIwalkthroughthecornfieldsinthemonthofJuly?Icannot.Iseenothingbutmillionsofearsrichwithgrain,andbendingtotheground with ripeness—but do I suppose that harvest came by chance, and grew ofitself? I suppose nothing of the kind. I knowwhen I see those corn fields that theploughandtheharrowwereatworkoneday,andthatahandhasbeentherewhichsowedtheseed.JustsoitiswiththeworkoftheSpiritinthesoul.

Can I see the magnetism in the compass-needle? I cannot. It acts in a hiddenmysteriousway—butwhenIseethatlittlepieceofironalwaysturningtothenorth,Iknowatoncethatitisunderthesecretinfluenceofmagneticpower.JustsoitiswiththeworkoftheSpiritinthesoul.

CanIseethemainspringofmywatchwhenIlookuponitsface?Icannot.ButwhenIsee the fingersgoing roundand telling thehoursandminutes of theday in regularsuccession,Idonotdoubtthemainspring'sexistence.JustsoitiswiththeworkoftheSpirit.

CanIseethesteersmanofthehomeward-boundship,whenshefirstcomesinsight,andhersailswhitenonthehorizon?Icannot.ButwhenIstandonthepier-headandseethatshipworkinghercourseovertheseatowardstheharbor'smouth,likeathingoflife,Iknowwellthereisoneatthehelmwhoguideshermovements.JustsoitiswiththeworkoftheSpirit.

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I charge allmy readers to remember this. Establish it as a settledprinciple inyourmind,thatiftheHolySpiritreallyisinaperson,itwillbeseenintheeffectsHeproducesonhisheartandlife.

Beware of supposing that a man may have the Spirit when there is no outwardevidenceofHispresence in the soul. It is adangerous andunscriptural delusion tothink so. We must never lose sight of the broad principles laid down for us inScripture,"IfwesaythatwehavefellowshipwithHim,andwalkindarkness,welie,anddonotthetruth.""InthisthechildrenofGodaremanifestandthechildrenofthedevil—whoeverdoesnotrighteousnessisnotofGod."(1John1:6;3:10.)

You have heard, I doubt not, of a wretched class of professing Christians calledAntinomians.TheyarepeoplewhoboastofhavingasavinginterestinChrist,andsaythey are pardoned and forgiven,while at the same time they live inwillful sin andopen breach of God's commandments. I dare say that such people are miserablydeceived.Theyaregoingdowntohellwithalieintheirrighthand!ThetruebelieverinChristis"deadtosin."EverypersonwhohasarealhopeinChrist"purifieshimselfevenasHeispure."(1John3:3.)

ButIwilltellyouofadelusionquiteasdangerousasthatoftheAntinomians,andfarmore specious. That delusion is—to flatter yourself you have the Spirit dwelling inyour heart, while there are no fruits of the Spirit to be seen in your life. I firmlybelievethatthisdelusionisruiningthousands,assurelyasAntinomianism.ItisjustasperiloustodishonortheHolySpirit,asitistodishonorChrist.Itisjustasoffensiveto God to pretend to an interest in the work of the Spirit, as it is to pretend to aninterestintheworkofChrist.

Once for all, I charge my readers to remember that the effects which the SpiritproducesaretheonlytrustworthyevidencesofHispresence.TotalkoftheHolySpiritdwelling inyouandyetbeingunseen inyour life, iswildwork indeed. It confoundsthefirstprinciplesoftheGospel—itconfoundslightanddarkness—natureandgrace—conversion and unconversion—faith and unbelief—the children of God and thechildrenofthedevil.

There is only one safe position in thismatter.There is only one safe answer to thequestion,"HowshallwedecidewhohavetheSpirit?"Wemusttakeourstandontheold principle laid down by our Lord Jesus Christ, "By their fruits you shall knowthem."(Matt.7:20.)WheretheSpiritistherewillbefruit—hewhohasnofruitoftheSpirit has not the Spirit. Awork of the Spirit unfelt, unseen, inoperative, is a greatdelusion.WheretheSpiritreallyisHewillbefelt,seen,andknown.

III.Letme,inthelastplace,describetheparticularEFFECTSwhichtheSpirit

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producesonthesoulsinwhichHedwells.

Iregardthispartofthesubjectasthemostimportantofall.HithertoIhavespokengenerallyof thegreat leadingprincipleswhichmustguideus in inquiringabout theworkof theHolySpirit. Imustnowcomecloser, and speakof the specialmarksbywhich the presence of the Holy Spirit in any individual heart may be discerned.Happily,withtheBibleforourlight,thesemarksarenothardtofindout.

SomethingsIwishtopremisebeforeenteringfully intothesubject. It isneedful inordertocleartheway.

(a)IgrantfreelythattherearesomedeepMYSTERIESabouttheworkoftheSpirit. I cannot explain the manner of His coming into the heart. "The windblowswhereitwills,andyouhearthesoundthereof—butcannottellwhenceitcomesandwhere it goes—so is everyone that is born of the Spirit." (John 3:8.) I cannotexplainwhyHecomes intooneheartandnot intoanother—whyHecondescends todwellinthismanandnotinthat.Ionlyknowthatsoitis.Heactsasasovereign.TousethewordsoftheChurchCatechism,Hesanctifies"theelectpeopleofGod."ButIrememberalsothatIcannotexplainwhyIwasborninChristianEngland,andnotinheathenAfrica.IamsatisfiedtobelievethatallGod'sworkiswelldone.ItisenoughformetobeintheKing'scourt,withoutbeingoftheKing'scounsel.

(b) I grant freely that there are greatDIVERSITIES in the operations bywhichtheSpiritcarriesonHisworkinmen'ssouls.Therearedifferences intheagesatwhichHebeginstoentertheheart.WithsomeHebeginsyoung,aswithJohn the Baptist and Timothy—with some he begins old, as with Manasseh andZaccheus.Therearedifferences in thefeelingswhichHe first stirsup in theheart.Heleadssomebystrongterrorandalarm,likethejaileratPhilippi.Heleadssomebygentlyopeningtheirheartstoreceivethetruth,asLydia.Therearedifferencesinthetimeoccupiedineffectingthiscompletechangeofcharacter.Withsomethechangeisimmediate and sudden, as it was with Saul when he journeyed to Damascus—withothers it is gradual and slow, as it was with Nicodemus the Pharisee. There aredifferencesintheinstrumentsHeusesinfirstawakeningthesoulfromitsnaturaldeath.WithsomeHeusesasermon,withothers theBible,withothersa tract,withothers a friend's advice, with others a sickness or affliction, with others no oneparticularthingthatcanbedistinctlytraced.Allthisismostimportanttounderstand.Torequireallpeopletobesquareddowntoonekindofexperienceisamostgrievousmistake!

(c)IgrantfreelythattheBEGINNINGSoftheSpirit'sworkareoftensmallandimperceptible.Theseedfromwhichthespiritualcharacterisformed,isoftenveryminuteatfirst.Thefountain-headofthespirituallife,likethatofmanyamightyriver,isfrequentlyatitsoutset,onlyalittletricklingstream.Thebeginningstherefore

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of theSpirit'swork ina soularegenerallyoverlookedby theworld—very frequentlynot duly valued and encouraged by other Christians—and almostwithout exceptionthoroughlymisunderstood by the soul itself which is the subject of them. Let thatneverbeforgotten.ThemaninwhomtheSpiritbeginstoworkisneverhardlyaware,until longafterwards, that his state ofmind about the time of his conversion arosefromtheentranceoftheHolySpirit.

But still, after all these concessions and allowances, there are CERTAIN GREATLEADINGEFFECTSwhichtheSpiritproducesonthesoulinwhichHedwells,whicharealwaysoneandthesame.ThosewhohavetheSpiritmaybeledatfirstbydifferentpaths—but they are always brought, sooner or later, into one and the same narrowway.TheirleadingopinionsofGospeltrutharethesame;theirleadingdesiresarethesame;theirgeneralwalkisthesame.Theymaydifferfromoneanotherwidelyintheirnaturalcharacter—buttheirspiritualcharacter,initsmainfeatures,isalwaysone.TheHolySpiritalwaysproducesonegeneralkindofeffects.Shadesandvarietiesthereareno doubt in the experience of those on whose hearts He works—but the generaloutlineoftheirfaithandlifeisalwaysthesame.

What thenare these general effectswhich theSpirit always produces on thosewhoreallyhaveHim?WhatarethemarksofHispresenceinthesoul?This is thequestionwhichnowremainstobeconsidered.Letustrytosetdownthesemarksinorder.

1. All who have the Spirit are quickened by Him, and made spirituallyALIVE.HeiscalledinScripture,"TheSpiritoflife."(Rom.8:3.)"ItistheSpirit,"saysour Lord Jesus Christ, "who quickens." (John 6:63.) We are all by nature dead intrespassesandsins.Wehaveneitherfeelingnorinterestabouttruereligion.Wehaveneitherfaith,norhope,norfear,norlove.Ourheartsareinastateoftorpor;theyarecomparedinScripturetoastone.Wemaybealiveaboutmoney,learning,politics,orpleasure—butwearedeadtowardsGod.AllthisischangedwhentheSpiritcomesintothe heart. He raises us from this state of death, and makes us new creatures. Heawakens the conscience, and inclines thewill towardsGod.He causes old things topassaway,andallthingstobecomenew.Hegivesusanewheart;Hemakesusputofftheoldman,andputonthenew.Heblowsthetrumpetintheearofourslumberingfaculties,andsendsusforthtowalktheworldasifwewerenewbeings.

HowunlikewasLazarus shutup in the silent tomb, toLazarus coming forth at ourLord's command! How unlike was Jairus' daughter lying cold on her bed amidstweeping friends, to Jairus' daughter rising and speaking to her mother as she wasaccustomedtodo!JustasunlikeisthemaninwhomtheSpiritdwellstowhathewasbeforetheSpiritcameintohim.

Iappealtoeverythinkingreader.Canhewhoseheartismanifestlyfullofeverything

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but God--hard, cold, and insensible—can he be said to "have the Spirit"? Judge foryourself.

2.Allwhohave theSpirit are taughtbyHim. He is called in Scripture, "TheSpirit ofwisdomand revelation." (Eph. 1:17.) Itwas the promise of the Lord Jesus,"Heshallteachyouallthings.""Heshallguideyouintoalltruth."(John14:26;16:13.)We are all by nature ignorant of spiritual truth. "The naturalman receives not thethingsof theSpiritofGod—theyare foolishness tohim." (1Cor.2:14.)Oureyes areblinded.WeneitherknowGod,norChrist,norourselves,northeworld,norsin,norheaven,norhell,asweought.Weseeeverythingunderfalsecolors.TheSpiritaltersentirely this stateof things.Heopens the eyesof ourunderstandings.He illuminesus;Hecallsusoutofdarknessintomarvelouslight.Hetakesawaytheveil.Heshinesintoourhearts, andmakesus see thingsas they reallyare!Nowonder thatall trueChristiansaresoremarkablyagreedupontheessentialsoftruereligion!Thereasonisthattheyhavealllearnedinoneschool—theschooloftheHolySpirit.Nowonderthattrue Christians can understand each other at once, and find common ground offellowship!Theyhavebeentaughtthesamelanguage,byOnewhoselessonsareneverforgotten.

I appeal again to every thinking reader. Can he who is ignorant of the leadingdoctrinesoftheGospel,andblindtohisownstate—canhebesaidto"havetheSpirit"?Judgeforyourself

3.Allwhohave the Spirit are ledbyHim to the SCRIPTURES.This is theinstrumentbywhichHespeciallyworksonthesoul.TheWordiscalled"theswordoftheSpirit."Thosewhoarebornagainaresaidtobe"bornbytheWord."(Eph.6:17;1Peter 1:23.) All Scripture was written under His inspiration—He never teachesanything which is not therein written. He causes the man in whom He dwells to"delightinthelawoftheLord."(Psalm1:2.)Justastheinfantdesiresthemilkwhichnaturehasprovidedforit,andrefusesallotherfood--sodoesthesoulwhichhastheSpiritdesirethesinceremilkoftheWord.JustastheIsraelitesfedonthemannainthewilderness, so are the children of God taught by theHoly Spirit to feed on thecontentsoftheBible.

I appeal again to every thinking reader. Can he who never reads the Bible, or onlyreadsitformally—canhebesaidtohavetheSpirit?Judgeforyourself.

4.Allwhohave theSpirit are convincedbyHimofSIN. This is an especialofficewhichtheLordJesuspromisedHeshouldfulfill."WhenHehascome,Heshallreprove theworld of sin." (John 16:8.)He alone can open aman's eyes to the realextent of his guilt and corruption beforeGod.He always does thiswhenHe comesinto the soul. He puts us in our right place. He shows us the vileness of our ownhearts,andmakesuscrywiththepublican,"Godbemercifultomeasinner!"Hepulls

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downthoseproud, self-righteous, self-justifyingnotionswithwhichweareallborn,andmakesusfeelasweoughttofeel,"Iamasinfulman,andIdeservetobeinhell!"Ministersmayalarmusforalittleseason;sicknessmaybreaktheiceonourhearts;but the ice will soon freeze again if it is not thawed by the breath of the Spirit!ConvictionsnotwroughtbyHimwillpassawaylikethemorningdew.

Iappealagaintoeverythinkingreader.Canthemanwhoneverfeelstheburdenofhissins,andknowsnotwhatitistobehumbledbythethoughtofthem—canhehavetheSpirit?Judgeforyourself.

5.AllwhohavetheSpiritareledbyHimtoCHRISTforsalvation. It isonespecialpartofHisofficeto"testifyofChrist,"to"takeofthethingsofChrist,andtoshowthemtous."(John15:26;16:15.)Bynatureweallthinktoworkourownwaytoheaven—wefancy inourblindnessthatwecanmakeourpeacewithGod.FromthismiserableblindnesstheSpiritdeliversus.Heshowsusthat inourselvesweare lostandhopeless,andthatChrist is theonlydoorbywhichwecanenterheavenandbesaved.Heteachesus thatnothingbut thebloodofJesuscanatone forsin,andthatthrough His mediation alone God can be just and the justifier of the ungodly. HerevealstoustheexquisitefitnessandsuitablenesstooursoulsofChrist'ssalvation.Heunfoldstousthebeautyofthegloriousdoctrineofjustificationbysimplefaith.Heshedsabroad inourhearts thatmighty loveofGodwhich is inChristJesus.Justasthedovefliestothewell-knowncleftoftherock,sodoesthesoulofhimwhohastheSpiritfleetoChristandrestonHim.(Rom.5:5.)

Iappealagaintoeverythinkingreader.CanhewhoknowsnothingoffaithinChrist,besaidtohavetheSpirit?Judgeforyourself.

6. All who have the Spirit are by Him made HOLY. He is" the Spirit ofholiness." (Rom. 1:4.)WhenHedwells in people,Hemakes them follow after love,joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, meekness, faith, patience, temperance." Hemakes it natural to them, through their new "Divine nature," to count all God'spreceptsconcerningallthingstoberight,andto"hateeveryfalseway."(2Pet1:4;Ps.119:128.)Sinisnomorepleasanttothem—itistheirsorrowwhentemptedbyit;itistheirshamewhentheyareovertakenbyit.Theirdesireistobefreefromitaltogether.TheirhappiesttimesarewhentheyareenabledtowalkmostcloselywithGod—theirsaddesttimesarewhentheyarefurthestofffromHim.

I appeal again to every thinking reader. Can thosewho do not even pretend to livestrictlyaccordingtoGod'swill,besaidtohavetheSpirit?Judgeforyourself.

7.AllwhohavetheSpiritareSPIRITUALLYMINDED.TousethewordsoftheApostlePaul, "thosewho liveaccording to the fleshset theirmindson the thingsofthe flesh,but thosewho liveaccording to theSpirit set theirmindson the thingsof

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theSpirit."(Rom.8:5.)Thegeneraltone,tenor,andbiasoftheirmindsisinfavorofspiritualthings.TheydonotserveGodbyfitsandstarts—buthabitually.Theymaybedrawn aside by strong temptations; but the general tendency of their lives, ways,tastes,thoughtsandhabits,isspiritual.Youseeitinthewaytheyspendtheirleisuretime,thecompanytheylovetokeep,andtheirconductintheirownhomes.Andallisthe result of the spiritual nature implanted in them by theHoly Spirit. Just as thecaterpillarwhenitbecomesabutterflycannolongerbecontenttocrawlonearth—butwillflyupwardsanduseitswings,sowilltheaffectionsofthemanwhohastheSpiritbeeverreachingupwardstowardGod.

Iappealagaintoeverythinkingreader.Canthosewhosemindsarewholly intentonthethingsofthisworldbesaidtohavetheSpirit?Judgeforyourself.

8.Allwhohave theSpirit feelaCONFLICTwithin them,between theoldnatureandthenew.ThewordsofPaularetrue,moreorless,ofallthechildrenofGod, "The flesh lusts against theSpirit, and theSpirit against the flesh--so that youcannot do the things that youwould." (Gal. 5:17.) They feel a holy principlewithintheir bosoms, which makes them delight in the law of God—but they feel anotherprinciplewithin,strivinghardforthemastery,andstrugglingtodragthemdownwardsandbackwards.Somefeelthisconflictmorethanothers—butallwhohavetheSpiritare acquaintedwith it; and it is a token for good. It is a proof that the 'strongmanarmed'nolongerreignswithin,asheoncedid,withundisputedsway.ThepresenceoftheHolySpiritmaybeknownbyinwardwarfareaswellasbyinwardpeace.Hewhohasbeen taught to rest andhope inChrist,will always be onewho fights andwarswithsin.

Iappealagaintoeverythinkingreader.Canhewhoknowsnothingofinwardconflict,and is a servant to sin, theworld, andhis own self-will, can he be said to have theSpirit?Judgeforyourself.

9.AllwhohavetheSpiritLOVEotherswhohavetheSpirit. It iswrittenofthembyJohn,"Weknowthatwehavepassedfromdeathtolife,becausewelovethebrethren." (1 John 3:14.) Themore they see of theHoly Spirit in anyone, themoredearhe is to them.Theyregardhimasamemberof thesame family,achildof thesameFather, a subjectof the sameKing, anda fellow-travelerwith themselves in aforeigncountrytowardsthesamefather-land.ItisthegloryoftheSpirittobringbacksomethingofthatbrotherlylove,whichsinhassomiserablychasedoutoftheworld.He makes people love one another for reasons which to the natural man arefoolishness—forthesakeofacommonSavior,acommonfaith,acommonserviceonearth, and the hope of a common home. He raises up friendships independent ofblood,marriage,interest,business,oranyworldlymotive.Heunitespeoplebymakingthemfeeltheyareunitedtoonegreatcenter,JesusChrist.

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Iappealagaintoeverythinkingreader.Canhewhofindsnopleasureinthecompanyofspiritually-mindedpeople,orevensneersatthemassaints—canhebesaidtohavetheSpirit?Judgeforyourself.

10.Finally,allwhohavetheSpiritaretaughtbyHimtoPRAY.HeiscalledinScripture, "TheSpirit of grace and supplication." (Zech. 12:10.)The elect ofGod aresaidto"crytoHimnightandday."(Luke18:7.)Theycannothelpit—theirprayersmaybepoor,andweak,andwandering—butpraytheymust;somethingwithinthemtellsthemtheymustspeakwithGodandlaytheirneedsbeforeHim.Justastheinfantwillcry when it feels pain or hunger, because it is its nature, so will the new natureimplantedbytheHolySpiritobligeamantopray.HehastheSpiritofadoption,andhemustcry,"Abba,Father."(Gal.4:6.)

OncemoreIappealtoeverythinkingreader.Canthemanwhoneverpraysatall,oriscontentwithsayinga fewformalheartlesswords, canhebe said tohave theSpirit?ForthelasttimeIsay,Judgeforyourself.

SucharethemarksandsignsbywhichIbelievethepresenceof theHolySpirit inamanmaybediscerned. Ihave set themdown fairly as they appear tome tobe laidbeforeusintheScriptures.Ihaveendeavoredtoexaggeratenothing,andtokeepbacknothing. I believe there are no true Christians in whom these marks may not befound.Someof them,nodoubt,standoutmoreprominently insome,andothers inothers. My own experience is distinct and decided—that I never saw a truly godlyperson, even of the poorest and humblest classes, in whom, on close observation,thesemarksmightnotbediscovered.

Ibelievethatmarkssuchasthesearetheonlysafeevidencethatwearetravelinginthe way that leads to everlasting life. I charge everyone who desires to make hiscallingandelectionsure, to see that thesemarksarehisown.Therearehigh-flyingprofessors of religion, I know, who despise themention of "marks," and call them"legal." I carenothing for their being called legal, so long as I am satisfied they arescriptural.And,withtheBiblebeforeme,Igivemyopinionconfidently,thathewhoiswithoutthesemarksiswithouttheSpiritofGod.

Showmeamanwhohasthesemarks,andIacknowledgehimasachildofGod.Hemaybepoorandlowlyinthisworld;hemaybevileinhisowneyes,andoftendoubtofhisownsalvation.Buthehasthatwithinhimwhichonlycomes fromabove,andwillneverbedestroyed,eventheworkoftheHolySpirit.Godishis,Christishis.Hisnameisalreadywritteninthebookoflife,andbeforelongheavenwillbehisown.

Showmeamaninwhomthesemarksarenottobefound,andIdarenotacknowledgehimtobea trueChristian. Idarenotasanhonestman; Idarenotasa loverofhissoul;IdarenotasareaderoftheBible.Hemaymakeagreatreligiousprofession;he

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maybelearned,highintheworld,andmoralinhislife.ItisallnothingifhehasnottheHolySpirit.HeiswithoutGod,withoutChrist,withoutsolidhope,and,unlesshechanges,willatlengthbewithoutheaven.

And now let me finish this paper by a fewPRACTICAL REMARKSwhich arisenaturallyoutofthematterwhichitcontains.

(a)Wouldyouknow,firstofall,whatisyourownimmediateduty?Listen,andIwilltellyou.

Youought toexamineyourselfcalmlyabout thesubjectwhichIhavebeentrying tosetbeforeyou.YououghttoaskyourselfseriouslyhowthedoctrineoftheHolySpiritaffectsyoursoul.Lookaway,Ibeseechyou,forafewminutes,tohigherthingsthanthethingsofearth,andmoreimportantthingsthanthethingsoftime.Bearwithme,while I ask you a plain question. I ask it solemnly and affectionately, as one whodesiresyoursalvation—HaveyoutheSpirit?

Remember, Idonotaskwhetheryou thinkall Ihavebeensaying is true, and right,andgood. I askwhether youyourself,whoare reading these lines--havewithin youtheHolySpirit?

Remember, I do not ask whether you believe that the Holy Spirit is given to theChurch of Christ, and that all who belong to the Church are within reach of Hisoperations.IaskwhetheryouyourselfhavetheSpiritinyourownheart?

Remember,Idonotaskwhetheryousometimesfeelstrivingsofconscience,andgooddesires flitting about within you. I ask whether you have really experienced thequickeningandrevivingworkoftheSpirituponyourheart?

Remember, Idonotaskyou to tellmethedayormonthwhen theSpiritbeganHisworkinyou.Itisenoughformeiffruittreesbearfruit,withoutinquiringtheprecisetimewhen theywereplanted.But Idoask--Are youbringing forthany fruitsof theSpirit?

Remember,Idonotaskwhetheryouareaperfectperson,andneverfeelanythingevilwithin.ButIdoask,gravelyandseriously,whetheryouhaveaboutyourheartandlifethemarksoftheSpirit?

IhopeyouwillnottellmeyoudonotknowwhatthemarksoftheSpiritare.Ihavedescribedthemplainly.Inowrepeatthembriefly,andpressthemonyourattention.

1.TheSpiritquickensmen'shearts.

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2.TheSpiritteachesmen'sminds.

3.TheSpiritleadstotheWord.

4.TheSpiritconvincesofsin.

5.TheSpiritdrawstoChrist.

6.TheSpiritsanctifies.

7.TheSpiritmakespeoplespirituallyminded.

8.TheSpiritproducesinwardconflict.

9.TheSpiritmakespeoplelovethebrethren.

10.TheSpiritteachestopray.

These are the great marks of the Holy Spirit's presence. Put the question to yourconsciencelikeaman—HastheSpiritdoneanythingofthiskindforyoursoul?

Ichargeyounottoletmanydayspassawaywithouttryingtoanswermyquestion.Isummonyou,asafaithfulwatchmanknockingatthedoorofyourheart,tobringthemattertoanoutcome.Weliveinanold,worn-out,sin-ladenworld.Whocantellwhat"a daymay bring forth?"Who shall live to see another year? Have you the Spirit?(Prov.27:1.)

(b)Would you know, in the next place, what is the grand defect of theChristianityofourtimes?Listentome,andIwilltellyou.

ThegranddefectIspeakofissimplythis—thattheChristianityofmanypeopleisnotreal Christianity at all. I know that such an opinion sounds hard and shockinglyuncharitable. I cannot help that—I am satisfied that it is sadly true. I only wantpeople'sChristianity tobe thatof theBible;but Idoubtexceedingly, inmanycases,whetheritisso.

TherearemultitudesofEnglishpeople, I believe,whogo to churchor chapel everySundaymerely as a form. Their fathers ormothers went, and so they go; it is thefashion of the country to go, and so they go; it is the custom to attend a religiousserviceandhearasermon,andso theygo.Butas toreal,vital, savingreligion--theyneitherknownorcareanythingabout it.Theycangivenoaccountof thedistinctivedoctrinesoftheGospel.Justification,andregeneration,andsanctification,are"wordsandnames"whichtheycannotexplain.Theymayhaveasortofvagueideathat theyoughttogototheLord'sTable,andmaybeabletosayafewvaguewordsaboutChrist

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—but they have no intelligent notion of theway of salvation. As to theHoly Spirit,theycanscarcelysaymoreaboutHimthanthattheyhaveheardHisname.

Now, if any reader of this paper is conscious that his religion is such as I havedescribed,Iwillonlywarnhimaffectionatelytorememberthatsuchreligionisutterlyuseless. It will neither save, comfort, satisfy, nor sanctify his soul. And the plainadvice I givehim is to change it for somethingbetterwithoutdelay.Remembermywords.Itwillnotdoatthelast.

(c)Wouldyouknow,inthenextplace,onetruthintheGospelaboutwhichweneedtobespeciallyjealousinthisday.Listen,andIwilltellyou.

ThetruthwhichIhaveinviewisthetruthabouttheworkoftheHolySpirit.AlltruthnodoubtisconstantlyassailedbySatan.Ihavenodesireforamomenttoexaggeratetheofficeof theSpirit—and to exaltHimabove theSunandCenter of theGospel—JesusChrist.ButIdobelievethat,nexttothepriestlyofficeofChrist,notruthinthepresentdayissofrequentlylostsightof,andsodeceitfullyassailed,astheworkoftheSpirit.Someinjureitbyignorantneglect—theirtalkisallaboutChrist.Theycan tellyousomethingabout"theSavior;"butifyouaskthemaboutthatinwardworkoftheSpiritwhichallwhoreallyknowtheSaviorexperience,theyhavenotawordtosay.

Some injure the work of the Spirit by taking it all for granted. Membership of theChurch,participationoftheSacraments,becometheirsubstitutesforconversionandspiritualregeneration.Someinjuretheworkof theSpiritbyconfounding itwiththeactionofnaturalconscience.Accordingtothislowview,nonebutthemosthardenedanddegradedofmankindaredestituteoftheHolySpirit.Againstallsuchdeparturesfrom the truth let us watch and be on our guard. Let us beware of leaving theproportionofGospelstatements.Letoneofourchiefwatchwordsinthepresentdaybe—NosalvationwithouttheinwardworkoftheSpirit!NoinwardworkoftheHolySpiritunlessitcanbeseen,felt,andknown!NosavingworkoftheSpirit which does not show itself in repentance towards God, and livingfaithtowardsJesusChrist!

(d) Would you know, in the next place, the reason why we, who areministersoftheGospel,neverdespairofanyonewhohearsussolongashelives?Listen,andIwilltellyou.

We never despair, because we believe the power of theHoly Spirit.Wemight welldespairwhenwe lookatourownperformances—weareoftensickofourselves!Wemight well despair when we look at some who belong to our congregations—theyseem as hard and insensible as the nether mill-stone. But we remember the HolySpirit,andwhatHehasdone;weremembertheHolySpirit,andconsiderthatHehasnotchanged.Hecancomedownlikefireandmeltthehardesthearts!Hecanconvert

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theworstmanorwomanamongourhearers,andmold theirwholecharacter intoanewshape.Andsowepreachon.Wehope,becauseof theHolySpirit.Oh, thatourhearerswouldunderstandthattheprogressoftruereligiondepends"notonmightoronpower,"butontheLord'sSpirit!Oh,thatmanyofthemwouldlearntoleanlessonministers,andtopraymorefortheHolySpirit!Oh,thatallwouldlearntoexpectlessfrom schools, and tracts, and ecclesiastical machinery, and, while using all meansdiligently,wouldseekmoreearnestlyfortheoutpouringoftheSpirit.(Zech.4:6.)

(e) Would you know, in the next place, what you ought to do, if yourconsciencetellsyouyouhavenottheSpirit?Listen,andIwilltellyou.

IfyouhavenottheSpirit,yououghttogoatoncetotheLordJesusChristinprayer,and beseech Him to have mercy on you, and send you the Spirit. I have not theslightestsympathywith thosewhotellpeople topray for theHolySpirit in the firstplace, in order that theymay go to Christ in the second place. I see no warrant ofScriptureforsayingso.Ionlyseethatifpeoplefeeltheyareneedy,perishingsinners,theyoughttoapplyfirstandforemost,straightanddirect,toJesusChrist.IseethatHeHimselfsays,"Ifanymanthirsts,lethimcomeuntoMeanddrink."(John7:37.)Iknowthatitiswritten,"Hehasreceivedgiftsformen,evenfortherebellious,thattheLordGodmightdwell among them." (Psal. 68:18.) I know it isHis special office tobaptizewiththeHolySpirit,andthat"inHimallfullnessdwells."IdarenotpretendtobemoresystematicthantheBible.IbelievethatChrististhemeetingplacebetweenGodandthesoul,andmyfirstadvicetoanyonewhowantstheSpiritmustalwaysbe,"GotoJesus,andtellyourneedtoHim!"(Col.1:19.)

FurthermoreIwouldsay,ifyouhavenottheSpirit,youmustbediligentinattendingthosemeansof grace throughwhich theSpiritworks. Youmust regularly hear thatWord, which isHis sword; youmust habitually attend those assemblies whereHispresenceispromised.Youmust,inshort,befoundinthewayoftheSpirit,ifyouwanttheSpirittodoyougood.BlindBartimeuswouldneverhavereceivedsighthadhesatlazilyathome,andnotcomeforthtositbythewayside.ZaccheusmightneverhaveseenJesusandbecomea sonofAbraham, ifhehadnot runbeforeand climbedupinto the sycamore tree. The Spirit is a loving and good Spirit. But hewho despisesmeansofgraceresiststheHolySpirit.

Remember these two things. I firmly believe that noman ever acted honestly andperseveringly on these two pieces of advice who did not, sooner or later, have theSpirit.

(f)Wouldyouknow,inthenextplace,whatyououghttodo,ifyoustandindoubtaboutyourownstate,andcannottellwhetheryouhavetheSpirit?Listen,andIwilltellyou.

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If you stand in doubt whether you have the Spirit, you ought to examine calmlywhetheryourdoubtsarewell-founded.Therearemanytruebelievers,Ifear,whoaredestituteofanyfirmassuranceastotheirownstate—doubtingistheirlife.IasksuchpeopletotaketheirBiblesdown,andconsiderquietlythegroundsoftheirconcerns.Iask them to considerwhence came their sense of sin, however feeble—their love toChrist,howeverfaint—theirdesireafterholiness,howeverweak—theirpleasureinthecompany of God's people—their inclination to prayer and theWord?Whence camethese things, I say?Did they come fromyourownheart?Surely not! Sinful humannaturebearsnosuchfruit.Didtheycomefromthedevil?Surelynot!SatandoesnotwagewaragainstSatan.Whencethen,Irepeat,didthesethingscome?Iwarnyoutobeware lestyougrieve theHolySpiritbydoubting the truthofHisoperations. I tellyouitishightimeforyoutoreflectwhetheryouhavenotbeenexpectingan'inwardperfection' which you had no right to expect, and at the same time thanklesslyundervaluingarealworkwhichtheHolySpirithasactuallywroughtinyoursouls.

AgreatstatesmanoncesaidthatifaforeignervisitedEngland,forthefirsttime,withhis eyes bandaged and his ears open—hearing everything—but seeing nothing—hemight well suppose that England was on the road to ruin; so many are themurmurings of theEnglishpeople. And yet if that same foreigner came toEnglandwithhisearsstoppedandhiseyesopen—seeingeverythingandhearingnothing—hewouldprobablysuppose thatEnglandwas themostwealthyand flourishingcountryintheworld,somanyarethesignsofprosperitythathewouldsee.

I am often disposed to apply this remark to the case of doubting Christians. If Ibelievedall they sayof themselves Iwouldcertainly think theywere in abad state.ButwhenI see them livingas theydo—hungeringand thirstingafter righteousness,poorinspirit,desiringholiness,lovingthenameofChrist,keepinguphabitsofBiblereadingandprayer—whenIseethesethingsIceasetobeafraid.Itrustmyeyesmorethanmyears.IseemanifestmarksoftheSpirit'spresence,andIonlygrievethattheyshouldrefusetoseethemthemselves.Iseethedevilrobbingthemoftheirpeace,byinstilling these doubts into their minds, and I mourn that they should injurethemselvesbybelievinghim.Someprofessors,without controversy,maywelldoubtwhetherthey"havetheSpirit,"fortheyhavenosignsofgraceaboutthem.Butmanynurseupahabitofdoubtintheirmindsforwhichtheyhavenocause,andofwhichtheyoughttobeashamed.

(g)Wouldyouknow,lastofall,whatyououghttodo,ifyoureallyhavetheSpirit.Listentome,andIwilltellyou.

IfyouhavetheSpirit,seektobe"filledwiththeSpirit."(Ephes.5:18.)Drinkdeepofthelivingwaters.Donotbecontentwithalittlereligion.PraythattheSpiritmayfilleverycornerandchamberofyourheart,andthatnotaninchofroommaybeleftinitfortheworldandthedevil.

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IfyouhavetheSpirit,"grievenottheSpirit."(Ephes.4:30.)ItiseasyforbelieverstoweakentheirsenseofHispresence,anddeprivethemselvesofHiscomfort.Littlesinsnotmortified,littlebadhabitsoftemperoroftonguenotcorrected,littlecomplianceswith the world, are all likely to offend the Holy Spirit. Oh, that believers wouldremember this!There is farmoreof "heavenon earth" tobe enjoyed thanmany ofthemattainto—andwhydotheynotattaintoit?Theydonotwatchsufficientlyovertheirdailyways,andsotheSpirit'sworkisdampedandhindered.TheSpiritmustbeathoroughlysanctifyingSpiritifHeistobeacomfortertoyoursoul.

IfyouhavetheSpirit,labortobringforthallthefruitsoftheSpirit."Butthefruitofthe Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness,self-control;againstsuchthingsthereisnolaw.AndthosewhobelongtoChristJesushavecrucifiedthefleshwithitspassionsanddesires."(Galatians5:22-24)

Read over the list which the Apostle has drawn out, and see that not one of thesefruits is neglected. Oh, that believers would seek for more "love," and more "joy!"Thenwouldtheydomoregoodtoallpeople;thenwouldtheyfeelhappierthemselves;thenwouldtheymakereligionmorebeautifulintheeyesoftheworld!

IcommendthethingsthatIhavewrittento theseriousattentionofeveryreaderofthesepages.Letthemnothavebeenwritteninvain.JoinwithmeinprayingthattheSpiritmay be poured out fromon highwithmore abundant influence thanHe haseverbeenyet.PraythatHemaybepouredoutonallbelievers,athomeandabroad,that theymay bemore united andmore holy. Pray that Hemay be poured out onJews,Muhammadans,andHeathen,thatmanyofthemmaybeconverted.

Pray that He may be poured out on Roman Catholics, and especially in Italy andIreland. Pray thatHemay be poured out on your own country, and that itmay bespared the judgments it deserves. Pray that He may be poured out on all faithfulministersandmissionaries,andthattheirnumbersmaybeincreasedanhundredfold.Pray,aboveall,thatHemaybepouredout,inabundantpower,onyourownsoul--thatifyouknownotthetruth,youmaybetaughttoknowit,andthatifyouknowit,youmayknowitbetter.

Conversion

"Repenttherefore,andbeconverted."Acts3:19

"Iassureyou,unlessyouareconvertedandbecomelikechildren,youwillneverenter

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thekingdomofheaven."Matthew18:3

Thesubjectwhich formsthe titleof thispaper isonewhich touchesallmankind. Itoughttocomehometoallranksandclasses,highorlow,richorpoor,oldoryoung,gentleorsimple.Anyonemaygettoheavenwithoutmoney,rank,orlearning.Noone,however wise, wealthy, noble, or beautiful, will ever get to heaven withoutconversion.

TherearesixpointsofviewinwhichIwishtoconsiderthesubjectofthispaper.Iwilltrytoshowthatconversionis—

I.AScripturalthing

II.Arealthing

III.Anecessarything

IV.Apossiblething

V.Ahappything

VI.Athingthatmaybeseen

I.Letmeshow,inthefirstplace,thatconversionisaSCRIPTURALthing.

Imeanbythis, thatconversionisathingplainlymentionedintheBible.This is thefirstpointwehavetoascertainaboutanythinginreligion.Itmattersnothingwhosaysa thing, and declares it to be religious truth; itmatters nothingwhetherwe like ordislikeadoctrine.IsitintheBible?Thatistheonlyquestion.Ifitis,wehavenorighttorefuseit.IfwerejectaBibletruthbecausewedonotlikeit,wedosoattheperilofoursouls,andmightaswellbecomeinfidelsatonce.Thisisaprinciplewhichoughtnevertobeforgotten.

Let us turn to the Bible. Hear what David says, "The law of the Lord is perfect,convertingthesoul","SinnersshallbeconverteduntoYou."(Psalm19:7;51:13.)Hearwhat our Lord Jesus Christ says, "Except you be converted, and become as littlechildren, you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven." (Matt. 18:3.) Hear whatPetersays,"Repent,andbeconverted,thatyoursinsmaybeblottedout."(Acts3:19.)HearwhatJamessays,"Hewhichconvertsthesinnerfromtheerrorofhiswayshallsaveasoulfromdeath,andshallhideamultitudeofsins."(James5:20.)

I couldeasilyadd to thisScriptural evidence. I couldquotemanypassages inwhichtheideaofconversioniscontained,thoughtheworditselfisnotused.Toberenewed—to be transformed—to be created anew—to be raised from the dead—to be

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illuminated—topassfromdeathtolife—tobebornagain—toputofftheoldmanandputonthenewman—alltheseareScripturalexpressions,whichmeanthesamethingasconversion.They are all the same thing, seen fromadifferent point of view.Butenoughisasgoodasafeast, inthesematters.Therecanbenodoubtofthetruthofmyfirstposition—thatconversionisaScripturalthing.Itisnotameredeviceofman'sinvention—itisintheBible.

Youmaytellme,perhaps,thatyoudonotcarefor"texts."Youmaysaythatyouarenotaccustomedtomakesingletextsdecidequestionsinyourreligion.Ifthisisyourcase,Iamsorryforyou.OurLordJesusChristandHisapostlesusedtoquotesingletexts frequently, and tomake everything in their arguments hinge upon them.Oneplain textwith themwas sufficient to settle a point. Is it not a seriousmatter, thatwhiletheLordJesusandHisapostlesmadesuchuseofsingletexts,youdonotcareforthem?

I entreat every reader of these pages to beware of ignorant prejudices on religioussubjects. I have known people to find fault with doctrines and opinions asenthusiastic,fanatical,andabsurd,intotalignorancethattheywerefindingfaultwithScripture itself!Theyhavegiven sadproof that they spokeof thingswhich theydidnot understand, and that they knew nothing, comparatively, of the contents of theBible. It is recorded that, inSomersetshire, onehundredyears ago, a greatpreacherwassummonedbeforethemagistratesforswearinginthepulpit.Hehadusedinhissermon thewell-known text, "Hewho believes not shall be damned" (Mark 16:16);and the constable was so ignorant that he did not know the preacher was quotingGod'sWord!Imyselfrememberaladyofrankbeingveryindignant,becauseaspeakerat a Missionary meeting described the heathen as "having no hope." And yet thespeakerhadonlyusedtheveryexpressionusedbyPaul,indescribingthestateoftheEphesians before theGospel came to them! (Ephes. 2:12.) Beware ofmaking a likemistake. Take care that you do not expose your own ignorance by talking againstconversion.SearchtheScriptures.Conversionisascripturalthing.

II.Letmeshow,inthesecondplace,thatconversionisaREALthing.

I feel itveryneedful tosaysomethingabout thispoint.We live inanageof shams,cheats,deceptions,andimpositions.It isanageofwhite-wash,varnish, lacquer,andveneer.Itisanageofplaster,platingandgilding.Itisanageofadulteratedfood,pastediamonds,falseweightsandmeasures,unsoundtimber,andshoddyclothing.Itisanage of wind-bags, and whitened sepulchers, and cymbals in religion. I can hardlywonder that many regard all Christian professors as suspicious characters, if nothypocrites,anddenytherealityofanysuchthingasconversion.

Still,notwithstandingallthatsuchpeoplemaysay,Iassertconfidently, that there issuchathingasconversion.Therearetobeseenamongpeople,everyhereandthere,

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unmistakablecasesofacompleteturningroundofheart,character,tastes,andlife—caseswhichdeservenoothername than that of conversion. I say thatwhen amanturns right round from sin to God—from worldliness to holiness—from self-righteousnesstoself-distrust—fromcarelessnessaboutreligiontodeeprepentance—from unbelief to faith—from indifference to Christ to strong love to Christ—fromneglectofprayerand theBible, toadiligentuseofallmeansofgrace—Isay boldly,thatsuchamanisaconvertedman.Whenaman'sheartisturnedupsidedownintheway I havedescribed, so that he loveswhathe oncehated, andhateswhat he onceloved, I sayboldly, that it is a caseof conversion.Todeny it, ismereobstinacy andaffectation.Suchachangecanbedescribedinnootherway.ByfarthemostsuitablenamethatcanbegiventoitistheScripturalname—conversion.

Of such changes the Bible gives many unmistakable patterns. Let anyone readattentively the histories ofManasseh king of Judah, ofMatthew the apostle, of thewomanofSamaria,ofZaccheusthepublican,ofMaryMagdalene,ofSaulofTarsus,ofthePhilippianjailer,ofLydiathepurpleseller,oftheJewstowhomPeterpreachedonthe day of Pentecost, of theCorinthians towhomPaul preached. (2Chron. 33:1-19.Matt.9:9.John4:1-29.Luke19:1-10;8:2.Acts9:1-22;16:14-34;2:37-41.1Cor.6:9-11.)Ineveryoneofthesecasestherewasamightychange.Whatcanthatchangebecalledbutconversion?

OfsuchchangesthehistoryoftheChurchineveryagecansupplymanywell-knownexamples.LetanyonestudythelifeofAugustine,ofMartinLuther,ofHughLatimer,ofJohnBunyan,ofColonelGardiner,ofJohnNewton,ofThomasScott.Ineveryoneof these lives he will find a description of a mighty turning of heart, opinion, andconduct,towardsGod.Whatcanthatturningbecalledbetterthanconversion?

Of such changes every man's own neighborhood and circle of acquaintances willfurnishmany specimens.Letanyhonest-mindedpersonofobservation lookaroundhim,andconsiderwhatIassert.Lethimdeny,ifhecan,thathecanputhisfingeronmenandwomenofhisownageandstanding,whoarenowutterlyunlikewhattheyonce were in thematter of religion. About their own souls, and the importance ofbeingsaved—aboutsin,andGod,andChrist,andrepentance,andfaith,andholiness—aboutBible-reading,andpraying—aboutallthesethingstheyarecompletelychanged.Ichallengeanysensiblemantodenythatheknowssuchpeople.Theyaretobemetwith here and there in every part of the kingdom.Oncemore I ask, what can suchchangesbecalledbutconversions?

I feelalmostashamedtodwellso longon thispoint. It seems likespending time inprovingthattwoplustwomakefour,orthatthesunrisesintheeast.But,alas,therearetoomanypeoplewhowillallownothing,andwilldisputeeverything, inreligion!Theyknowthattheyarenotyetconvertedthemselves,andtheythereforetryhardtomake out that nobody was ever converted at all! I trust I have given a sufficient

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answertoallsuchpeople.Ihaveshownyouthatconversionisarealtruething.

III.Letmeshow,inthethirdplace,thatconversionisaNECESSARYthing.

This is apoint of great importance. Someworthypeople are ready enough to admitthatconversionisaScripturaltruthandareality—butnotathingwhichneedstobepressedonmostEnglishpeople.Theheathen, theygrant,needconversion.Eventhethieves, and fallen characters, and inhabitants of jails, they allow, may requireconversion.But to talkof conversionbeingnecessary forChurch-goingpeople, is totalkof thingswhich theycannotseeatall. "Suchpeoplemay, insomecases,needalittlestirringupandamendment.Theymaynotbequiteasgoodastheyoughttobe—itwouldbebetteriftheyattendedmoretoreligion;butyouhavenorighttosaytheyneedconversion!Itisuncharitable,harsh,narrow-minded,bitter,wrong,totellthemtheyrequireconversion!"

This sadly common notion is a complete delusion. It is a pure invention of man's,without a scrap of foundation in God'sWord. The Bible teaches expressly that thechange of heart, called conversion, is a thing absolutely needed by everyone. It isneededbecauseof thetotalcorruptionofhumannature.It isneededbecauseof theconditionofeveryman'snaturalheart.Allpeopleborn into theworld,ofeveryrankandnation,musthavetheirheartschangedbetweenthecradleandthegrave,beforetheycangotoheaven.All,allpeople,withoutexception,mustbeconverted.

WithoutconversionofheartwecannotserveGodonearth.Wehavenaturallyneitherfaith,norfear,norlove,towardGodandHisSonJesusChrist.WehavenodelightinHis Word. We take no pleasure in prayer or communion with Him. We have noenjoymentinHisordinances,Hishouse,Hispeople,orHisday.WemayhaveaformofChristianity, andkeepupa roundof ceremonies and religiousperformances.Butwithoutconversionwehavenomoreheartinourreligionthanabrickorastone.CanadeadcorpseserveGod?Weknow it cannot.Well,withoutconversionwearedeadtowardGod.

LookroundthecongregationwithwhichyouworshipeverySunday.Markhow littleinterestthegreatmajorityofthemtakeinwhatisgoingon.Observehowlistless,andapathetic, and indifferent, they evidently are about thewhole affair. It is clear theirheartsarenotthere!Theyarethinkingofsomethingelse,andnotofreligion.Theyarethinkingofbusiness,ormoney,orpleasure,orworldlyplans,orbonnets,orgowns,ornewdresses,oramusements.Theirbodiesarethere—butnottheirhearts.Andwhatisthereason?Whatisittheyallneed?Theyneedconversion.Withoutittheyonlycometochurchforfashionandform'ssake,andgoawayfromchurchtoservetheworldortheirsins.

Butthis isnotall.Withoutconversionofheartwecouldnotenjoyheaven, ifwegot

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there.Heavenisaplacewhereholinessreignssupreme,andsinandtheworldhavenoplaceatall.Thecompanywillallbeholy;theemploymentswillallbeholy;itwillbeaneternalSabbath-day.Surelyifwegotoheaven,wemusthaveaheart intuneandabletoenjoyit,orelseweshallnotbehappy.Wemusthaveanatureinharmonywiththe element we live in, and the place where we dwell. Can a fish be happy out ofwater?Weknowitcannot.Well,withoutconversionofheartwecouldnotbehappyinheaven.

Lookroundtheneighborhood inwhichyou live,andthepeoplewithwhomyouareacquainted. Think what many of them would do if they were cut off forever frommoney, andbusiness, andnewspapers, and cards, andballs, and races, andhunting,andshooting,andworldlyamusements!Would they like it?Thinkwhat theywouldfeeliftheywereshutupforeverwithJesusChrist,andsaints,andangels!Wouldtheybehappy?WouldtheeternalcompanyofMoses,andDavid,andPaul,bepleasanttothosewhonevertakethetroubletoreadwhatthoseholymenwrote?Wouldheaven'severlastingpraisesuitthetasteofthosewhocanhardlyspareafewminutesinaweekforprivatereligion,evenforprayer?Thereisbutoneanswertobegiventoall thesequestions.Wemustbe convertedbeforewe can enjoyheaven.HeavenwouldbenoheaventoanychildofAdamwithoutconversion.

Let nomandeceiveus. There are two thingswhich are of absolute necessity to thesalvationofeverymanandwomanonearth.OneofthemisthemediatorialworkofChrist for us—His atonement, satisfaction, and intercession. The other is theconvertingworkoftheSpiritinus—Hisguiding,renewing,andsanctifyinggrace.Wemust have both a title and a heart for heaven. Sacraments are not necessary tosalvation—amanmaybe savedwithout them, like thepenitent thief.An interest inChristandconversionareabsolutelynecessary—withoutthemnoonecanpossiblybesaved. All, all alike, high or low, rich or poor, old or young, gentle or simple,churchmen or dissenters, baptized or unbaptized, all must be converted or perish.Thereisnosalvationwithoutconversion.Itisanecessarything.

IV.Letmenowshow,inthefourthplace,thatconversionisaPOSSIBLEthing.

IthinkIknowthefeelingswhichcomeacrossmanypeople'sminds,whentheyreadthethingswhichIamwritinginthispaper.Theytakerefuge inthe ideathatsuchachangeasconversionisquiteimpossible,exceptforafavoredfew."Itisallverywell,"theyargue,"forparsonstotalkofconversion;butthethingcannotbedone;wehavework tomind, families to provide for, business to attend to. It is no use expectingmiraclesnow.Wecannotbe converted."Such thoughts are very common.Thedevilloves to put them before us, and our own lazy hearts are only too ready to receivethem—but they will not stand examination. I am not afraid to lay it down thatconversionisapossiblething.Ifitwerenotso,Iwouldnotsayanotherword.

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Insayingthis,however,Iwouldbesorrytobemistaken.Idonotforamomentmeanthat anyone can convert himself, change his own heart, take away his own corruptnature,putinhimselfanewspirit.Imeannothingofthekind.IwouldassoonexpectthedrybonesinEzekiel'svisiontogivethemselveslife.(Ezek.37:3.)Ionlymeanthatthere is nothing in Scripture, nothing in God, nothing in man's condition, whichwarrants anyone in saying, "I can never be converted." There lives not theman orwoman on earth of whom it could be said, "their conversion is an impossibility."Anyone,howeversinfulandhardened,anyonemaybeconverted.

WhydoIspeaksoconfidently?HowisitthatIcanlookroundtheworld,andseethedesperatewickednessthat is in it,andyetdespairofno livingman'ssoul?Howis itthatIcansaytoanyone,howeverhard, fallen,andbad,"Yourcase isnothopeless—you, even you, may be converted?" I can do it because of the things contained inChrist'sGospel.ItisthegloryofthatGospelthatunderitnothingisimpossible.

Conversion is a possible thing, because of the almighty power of our Lord JesusChrist.InHimislife.InHishandarethekeysofdeathandhell.Hehasallpowerinheavenandearth.HequickenswhomHewill.(John1:4;Rev.1:18;Matt.28:18;John5:21.)ItisaseasytoHimtocreatenewheartsoutofnothing,asitwastocreatetheworldoutofnothing. It isaseasy toHimtobreathespiritual life intoastony,deadheart,as itwas tobreathenatural life into theclayofwhichAdamwas formed, andmake him a living man. There was nothing He could not do on earth. Wind, sea,disease, death, the devil—all were obedient to His word. There is nothing that HecannotdoinheavenatGod'srighthand.Hishandisasstrongasever—Hisloveisasgreatasever.TheLordJesusChristlives,andthereforeconversionisnotimpossible.

Butbesidethis,conversion isapossible thing,becauseof thealmightypowerof theHoly Spirit,whomChrist sends into thehearts of allwhomHe undertakes to save.The same divine Spirit who co-operated with the Father and Son in the work ofcreation, co-operates specially in the work of conversion. It is He who conveys lifefromChrist,thegreatFountainofLife,intotheheartsofsinners.Hewhomovedonthefaceofthewatersbeforethosewonderfulwordswerespoken,"Lettherebelight,"isHewhomoves over sinners' souls, and takes their natural darkness away. GreatindeedistheinvisiblepoweroftheHolySpirit!Hecansoftenthatwhichishard.Hecan bend thatwhich is stiff and stubborn.He can give eyes to the spiritually blind,earstothespirituallydeaf,tonguestothespirituallymute,feettothespirituallylame,warmth to the spiritually cold, knowledge to the spiritually ignorant, and life to thespirituallydead. "None teaches likeHim!" (Job 36:22.)He has taught thousands ofignorantsinners,andneverfailedtomakethem"wiseuntosalvation."TheHolySpiritlives,andthereforeconversionisneverimpossible.

Whatcanyousaytothesethings?Awaywiththeideaforeverthatconversionisnotpossible.Castitbehindyou—itisatemptationofthedevil.Looknotatyourself,and

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yourownweakheart—forthenyoumaywelldespair.LookupwardatChrist,andtheHolySpirit,andlearnthatwiththemnothing is impossible.Yes! theageofspiritualmiraclesisnotyetpast!Deadsoulsinourcongregationscanyetberaised;blindeyescanyetbemade to see; speechlessprayerless tongues canyetbe taught topray.Nooneoughtever todespair.WhenChristhas leftheaven,and laiddownHisofficeastheSaviorof sinners—when theHolySpirithas ceased todwell inhearts, and isnolonger God—then, and not until then, men and women may say, "We cannot beconverted."Until then, I sayboldly, conversion is apossible thing. Ifpeople arenotconverted,itisbecausethey"willnotcometoChristforlife."(John5:40.)Conversionispossible.

V.Letmeshow,inthefifthplace,thatconversionisaHAPPYthing.

I shall have written in vain if I leave this point untouched. There are thousands, Ifirmlybelieve,whoarereadytoadmitthetruthofallIhavesaidhitherto.Scriptural,real, necessary, possible—all this theywillingly allow conversion to be. "Of course,"theysay,"weknowitisalltrue.Peopleoughttobeconverted."Butwill it increaseaman'shappinesstobeconverted?Willitaddtoaman'sjoys,andlessenhissorrows,to be converted?Here alas, is a point atwhichmany stick fast. They have a secret,lurkingfear,thatiftheyareconvertedtheymustbecomemelancholy,miserable,andlow-spirited.Conversionandasourface—conversionandagloomybrow—conversionand an ill-natured readiness to snub young people, and put down all mirth—conversion and a sorrowful countenance—conversion and sighing and groaning—allthese are thingswhich they seem to thinkmust go together! No wonder that suchpeopleshrinkfromtheideaofconversion!

The notion I have just described is very common and verymischievous. I desire toprotestagainstitwithallmyheart,andsoul,andmind,andstrength.Iassertwithouthesitation, that the conversion described in Scripture is a happy thing and not amiserable one; and that if converted people are not happy, the fault must be inthemselves.ThehappinessofatrueChristian,nodoubt,isnotquiteofthesamesortas that of a worldlyman. It is a calm, solid, deep flowing, substantial joy. It is notmadeupofexcitement, levity,andboisterousspasmodicmirth.It is thesober,quietjoyofonewhodoesnotforgetdeath,judgment,eternity,andaworldtocome,eveninhis chiefmirth. But in themain I am confident the convertedman is the happiestman.

WhatsaystheScripture?Howdoes itdescribethefeelingsandexperienceofpeoplewhohavebeenconverted?Doesitgiveanycountenancetotheideathatconversionisa sorrowful andmelancholy thing?LetushearwhatLevi felt,whenhehad left thereceipt of custom to follow Christ.We read that "hemade a great feast in his ownhouse,"as if itwasanoccasionofgladness. (Luke5:29.)LetushearwhatZaccheusthepublicanfelt,whenJesusofferedtocometohishouse.Wereadthat"hereceived

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Him joyfully." (Luke 19:6.) Let us hear what the Samaritans felt, when they wereconvertedthroughPhilip'spreaching.Wereadthat"therewasgreat joy inthatcity."(Acts8:8.)Letushearwhat theEthiopianeunuch felt in thedayofhis conversion.We read that "he went on his way rejoicing." (Acts 8:39.) Let us hear what thePhilippianjailerfeltinthehourofhisconversion.Wereadthat"herejoiced,believingin God with all his house." (Acts 16:34) In fact the testimony of Scripture on thissubjectisalwaysoneandthesame.Conversionisalwaysdescribedasthecauseofjoyandnotofsorrow,ofhappinessandnotofmisery.

The plain truth, is that people speak ill of conversion because they know nothingreallyabout it.Theyrundownconvertedmenandwomenasunhappy,because theyjudge them by their outward appearance of calmness, gravity, and quietness, andknownothingoftheirinwardpeace.Theyforgetthatitisnotthosewhoboastmostoftheir own performances who do most, and it is not those who talk most of theirhappinesswhoareinrealitythehappiestpeople.

Aconvertedmanishappy,becausehehaspeacewithGod.Hissinsareforgiven;hisconscience is free from the sense of guilt—he can look forward to death, judgment,andeternity,andnotfeelafraid.Whatanimmenseblessingtofeelforgivenandfree!He is happy because he finds order in his heart. His passions are controlled, hisaffectionsarerightlydirected.Everythinginhisinnerman,howeverweakandfeeble,is initsrightplace,andnot inconfusion.Whatan immenseblessingorder is!He ishappy,becausehefeelsindependentofcircumstances.Comewhatwill,heisprovidedfor—sickness, and losses, anddeath, cannever touchhis treasure in heaven, or robhim of Christ. What a blessing to feel independent! He is happy, because he feelsready.Whateverhappensheissomewhatprepared—thegreatbusinessissettled;thegreatconcernoflifeisarranged.Whatablessingtofeelready!Theseareindeedtruesprings of happiness. They are springs which are utterly shut up and sealed to anunconvertedman.Without forgivenessof sins,withouthope for theworld to come,dependent on this world for comfort, unprepared tomeet God, he cannot be reallyhappy.Conversionisanessentialpartoftruehappiness.

Settleit inyourmindtodaythatthefriendwholaborsforyourconversiontoGodisthebest friendthatyouhave.Heisa friendnotmerely for the life tocome—butforthe life thatnow is.He isa friend toyourpresentcomfortaswellas toyour futuredeliverance fromhell.He isa friend for timeaswellas foreternity.Conversion isahappything.

VI.Letmenowshowyou,inthelastplace,thatconversionisathingthatmaybeSEEN.

Thisisapartofmysubjectwhichoughtnevertobeoverlooked.WellwoulditbefortheChurchandtheworld, if ineveryage ithadreceivedmoreattention.Thousands

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have turned away in disgust from Christianity, because of the wickedness ofmanywhoprofess it.Hundredshave caused the very name of conversion to stink, by thelives they have lived after declaring themselves converted. Theyhave fancied that afew spasmodic sensations and convictions were the true grace of God. They haveimaginedthemselvesconverted,becausetheiranimalfeelingswereexcited.Theyhavecalledthemselves"converts"withouttheslightestrightortitletothathonoredname.Allthishasdoneimmenseharm,anditisdoingpeculiarharminthepresentday.Thetimesdemandaveryclearassertionofthegreatprinciple—thattrueconversionisathingthatcanalwaysbeseen.

IadmitfullythatthemanneroftheSpirit'sworkingisinvisible.Itislikethewind.Itisliketheattractivepowerofthemagnet.Itisliketheinfluenceofthemoonuponthetides. There is something about it far beyond the reach of man's eyes orunderstanding.ButwhileIadmitthisdecidedly,Imaintainnolessdecidedlythattheeffectsof the Spirit's work in conversionwill always be seen. Those effectsmay beweak and feeble at first—to the natural man they may hardly be visible, and notunderstood. But effects there alwayswill be—some fruit will always be seen wherethereistrueconversion.Wherenoeffectcanbeseen,thereyoumaybesurethereisnograce.Wherenovisiblefruitcanbefound,thereyoumaybesureisnoconversion.

Doesanyoneaskmewhatwemayexpect tosee inatrueconversion?I reply,Therewill always be something seen in a converted man's character, and feelings, andconduct,andopinions,anddailylife.Youwillnotseeinhimperfection;butyouwillseeinhimsomethingpeculiar,distinct,anddifferentfromotherpeople.Youwillseehim hating sin, loving Christ, following after holiness, taking pleasure in his Bible,persevering in prayer. You will see him penitent, humble, believing, temperate,charitable, truthful, good-tempered, patient, upright, honorable, kind. These, at anyrate,willbehisaims—thesearethethingswhichhewill followafter,howevershorthemaycomeofperfection.Insomeconvertedpeopleyouwillseethesethingsmoredistinctly, inothers less.ThisonlyIsay,wherever there isconversion,somethingofthiskindwillbeseen.

Icarenothingforaconversionwhichhasneithermarksnorevidencestoshow.Ishallalwayssay,"Givemesomemarks ifIamtothinkyouareconverted.Showmeyourconversionwithoutanymarks,ifyoucan!Idonotbelieveinit.Itisworthnothingatall."Youmay call suchdoctrine legal if youplease. It is far better tobe called legalthantobeanAntinomian.Never,never,willIallowthattheblessedSpiritcanbeinaman's heart,whenno fruit of the Spirit canbe seen inhis life.A conversionwhichallowsamanto live insin, to lie,anddrink,andswear, isnot theconversionof theBible.Itisacounterfeitconversion,whichcanonlypleasethedevil,andwillleadthemanwhoissatisfiedwithit,nottoheaven—buttohell.

Letthislastpointsinkdownintoyourheartandneverbeforgotten.Conversionisnot

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onlyaScriptural thing,areal thing,anecessary thing,apossible thing,andahappything—there remains onemore grand characteristic about it—it is a thing that willalwaysbeseen.

APPLICATION

Andnowletmewindupthispaperbyafewplainappealstotheconsciencesofallwhoread it. I have tried to the best of my power to unfold and explain the nature ofconversion.Ihaveendeavoredtosetitforthineverypointofview.Nothingremainsbuttotrytobringithometotheheartofeveryone intowhosehandsthisbookmayfall.

(1)Firstofall, Iurgeeveryreaderof thispaper to findoutwhetherhe isconverted. I am not asking about other people. The heathen no doubt needconversion. The unhappy inhabitants of jails and reformatories need conversion.There may be people living near your own house who are open sinners andunbelievers,andneedconversion.Butall this isbesidethequestion.Iask—Areyouconvertedyourself?

Areyouconverted?Itisnoreplytotellmethatmanypeoplearehypocritesandfalseprofessors. It is no argument to say that there are many sham revivals, and mockconversions.Allthismaybeverytrue—buttheabuseofathingdoesnotdestroytheuseof it.Thecirculation of badmoney is no reasonwhy there should not begoodcoin.Whateverothersmaybe—Areyouconvertedyourself?

Areyouconverted?Itisnoanswertotellmethatyougotochurchorchapel,andhavebeenbaptizedandadmittedtotheTableoftheLord.Allthisproveslittle—Icouldsayas much for Judas Iscariot, Demas, Simon Magus, Ananias, and Sapphira. Thequestion is still not answered. Is your heart changed? Are you really converted toGod?

(2)Inthenextplace,Iurgeeveryreaderofthisbookwhoisnotconverted,nevertorestuntilheis.Makehasteawaketoknowyourdanger.Escapeforyourlife!Flee fromthewrath tocome!Time is short!Eternity isnear!Life isuncertain!Judgment is sure!AriseandcalluponGod.The throneofgrace isyet standing—theLordJesusChristisyetwaitingtobegracious.ThepromisesoftheGospelarewide,broad, full,and free—layholdupon themthisday.Repent,andbelieve theGospel—repent,andbeconverted.Restnot,restnot,restnot,untilyouknowandfeelthatyouareaconvertedman.

(3)Inthelastplace,Iofferawordofexhortationtoeveryreaderwhohasreason to think thathehasgone through thatblessedchangeofwhich Ihavebeenspeakinginthispaper.Youcanrememberthetimewhenyouwerenot

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whatyouarenow.Youcanrememberatimeinyourlifewhenoldthingspassedaway,andall thingsbecamenew.Toyoualso Ihave something to say.Allow theword offriendlycounsel,andlayittoheart.

(a)Do you think that you are converted?Thengivealldiligence tomakeyourcalling and conversion sure. Leave nothing uncertain that concerns yourimmortalsoul.LabortohavethewitnessoftheSpiritwithyourspirit,thatyouareachildofGod.Assuranceistobehadinthisworld,andassuranceisworththeseeking.Itisgoodtohavehope—itisfarbettertofeelsure.

(b)Doyouthink thatyouareconverted?Thendonotexpectimpossibilitiesinthisworld.Donotsupposethedaywillevercomewhenyouwillfindnoweakpointinyourheart,nowanderingsinprivateprayer,nodistractioninBible-reading,nocolddesiresinthepublicworshipofGod,nofleshtomortify,nodeviltotempt,noworldlysnares to make you fall. Expect nothing of the kind. Conversion is not perfection!Conversionisnotheaven!Theoldmanwithinyouisyetalive—theworldaroundyouisyet fullofdanger; thedevil isnotdead.Rememberat yourbest, that a convertedsinnerisstillapoorweaksinner,needingChristeveryday.Rememberthis,andyouwillnotbedisappointed.

(c)Doyouthinkthatyouareconverted?Thenlaboranddesiretogrowingraceeveryyear thatyou live.Look not to the things behind; be not contentwith oldexperience,oldgrace,oldattainmentsinreligion.DesirethesinceremilkoftheWord,that you may grow thereby. (1 Pet. 2:2.) Entreat the Lord to carry on the work ofconversionmoreandmore inyour soul, and todeepen spiritual impressionswithinyou. Read your Bible more carefully every year—watch over your prayers morejealouslyeveryyear.Bewareofbecomingsleepyand lazy inyourreligion.There isavast difference between the lowest and the highest forms in the school of Christ.Strivetogetoninknowledge,faith,hope,charity,andpatience.Letyouryearlymottobe,"Onward,Forward,Upward!"tothelasthourofyourlife.

(d) Do you think you are converted? Then show the value you place onconversion by your diligence in trying to do good to others.Do you reallybelieve it is a dreadful thing to be an unconverted man? Do you really think thatconversion isanunspeakableblessing?Thenprove it,prove it,prove it, by constantzealouseffortstopromotetheconversionofothers.Lookaroundtheneighborhoodinwhichyoulive—havecompassiononthemultitudeswhoareyetunconverted.Benotcontentwithgettingthemtocometoyourchurchorchapel;aimatnothinglessthantheir entire conversion toGod. Speak to them, read to them, pray for them, stir upotherstohelpthem.Butnever,never—ifyouareaconvertedman,neverbecontenttogotoheavenalone!

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TheHeart

"Givemeyourheart."Proverbs23:26

"YourheartisnotrightinthesightofGod."Acts8:21

Theheart is themain thing in truereligion. Imakeno excuse for asking thespecialattentionofmyreaders,whileItrytosayafewthingsabouttheheart.

Theheadisnottheprincipalthing.Youmayknowthewholetruthasit is inJesus,and consent that it is good. Youmay be clear, correct, and sound in your religiousopinions. But all this time you may be walking in the broad way which leads todestruction.Itisyourheartwhichisthemainpoint."IsyourheartrightinthesightofGod?"

Youroutward lifemay bemoral, decent, respectable, in the eyes of people. Yourminister, and friends, and neighbors, may see nothing very wrong in your generalconduct.Butall this timeyoumaybehangingon thebrinkofeverlasting ruin. It isyourheartwhichisthemainthing.IsthatheartrightinthesightofGod?

WishesanddesiresarenotenoughtomakeaChristian.Youmayhavemanygoodfeelings about your soul. You may, like Balaam, long to "die the death of therighteous."(Num.23:10.)Youmaysometimestrembleatthethoughtofjudgmenttocome,orbemeltedtotearsbythetidingsofChrist'slove.Butallthistimeyoumaybeslowlydriftingdownward intohell. It is yourheartwhich is themain thing. Is thatheartrightinthesightofGod?

Thereare three thingswhich Ipropose todo inorder to impress the subjectof thispaperuponyourmind.

I.First,Iwillshowyoutheimmenseimportanceoftheheartinreligion.

II.Secondly,IwillshowyoutheheartwhichiswronginthesightofGod.

III.Lastly,IwillshowyoutheheartwhichisrightinthesightofGod.

MayGodblessthewholesubjecttothesoulofeveryoneintowhosehandsthisbookmayfall!MaytheHolySpirit,withoutwhomallpreachingandwritingcandonothing,applythispapertomanyconsciences,andmakeitanarrowtopiercemanyhearts!

I. In the first place, I will show the immense IMPORTANCE of the heart inreligion.

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HowshallIprovethispoint?FromwhenceshallIfetchmyarguments?ImustturntotheWordofGod.Inquestionsofthiskinditmattersnothingwhattheworldthinksrightorwrong.Thereisonlyonesuretestoftruth.WhatsaystheScripture?Whatiswritten in theBible?What is themindof theHoly Spirit? Ifwe cannot submit ourjudgmentstothisinfallibleumpire,it isuselesstopretendthatwehaveanyreligionatall.

Forone thing, theBible teaches that theheart is thatpartofusonwhich thestateofoursouldepends."Outofitaretheissuesoflife."(Prov.4:23.)Thereason,theunderstanding,theconscience,theaffections,areallsecondinimportancetotheheart.Theheartistheman.Itistheseatofallspirituallife,andhealth,andstrength,and growth. It is the hinge and turning-point in the condition ofman's soul. If theheartisalivetoGodandquickenedbytheSpirit,themanisalivingChristian.Iftheheart isdeadandhasnot theSpirit, theman isdeadbeforeGod.Theheart is theman!Tellmenotmerelywhatamansaysandprofesses,andwhereamangoesonSunday,andwhatmoneyheputsinthecollectingplate.Tellmeratherwhathisheartis,andIwilltellyouwhatheis."Asamanthinksinhisheart,soishe."(Prov.23:7.)

Foranotherthing,theBibleteachesthattheheartisthatpartofusatwhichGodespeciallylooks."Manlooksattheoutwardappearance—buttheLordlooksontheheart."(1Sam.16:7.)"Everywayofmanisrightinhisowneyes—buttheLordponderstheheart."(Proverbs21:2.)Manisnaturallycontentwiththeoutwardpartofreligion,withoutwardmorality,outwardcorrectness,outwardregularattendanceonmeansofgrace.ButtheeyesoftheLordlookmuchfurther.Heregardsourmotives.He"weighsthespirits."(Prov.16:2.)HesaysHimself,"ItheLordamthesearcheroftheheart,thetesterofthethoughts."(Jer.17:10.)

Foranotherthing,theBibleteachesthattheheartisthefirstandforemostthingwhichGodasksmantogivehim."Myson,"Hesays,"giveMeyourheart."(Prov.,23:26.)WemaygiveGodabowedheadandaseriousface,ourbodilypresenceinHishouse,andaloudamen.ButuntilwegiveGodourhearts,wegiveHimnothingofanyvalue. The sacrifices of the Jews in Isaiah's timeweremany and costly. They drewnear to God with theirmouth, and honoredHimwith their lips. But they were allwhollyuseless, because theheart of theworshiperswas far fromGod. (Matt. 15:8.)ThezealofJehuagainstidolatrywasverygreat,andhisservicesinpullingdownidolsbroughthimmany temporal rewards.But therewas one great blot on his characterwhich spoiled all. He did not walk in the law of God "with all his heart." (2 Kings10:31.)Theheart iswhat thehusbanddesires to have in hiswife, the parent in hischild, and themaster in his servant. And the heart is what God desires to have inprofessingChristians.

Whatistheheartinman'sbody?Itistheprincipalandmostimportantorganinthewholeframe.Amanmaylivemanyyearsinspiteoffevers,wounds,andlossoflimbs.

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Butamancannotliveifyouinjurehisheart.Justsoitiswiththeheartinreligion.Itisthefountainoflifetothesoul.

Whatistheroottothetree?It isthesourceofall life,andgrowth,andfruitfulness.Youmaycutoffthebranches,andwoundthetrunk,andthetreemayyetsurvive.Butifyouhurttheroot,thetreewilldie.Justso it iswiththeheart inreligion.It is therootoflifetothesoul.

What is themainspring to thewatch? It is the cause of all itsmovements, and thesecretofallitsusefulness.Thecasemaybecostlyandbeautiful.Thefaceandfiguresmaybeskillfullymade.Butifthereisanythingwrongwiththemainspringtheworkswillnotgo.Justso it iswith theheart in religion. It is themainspringof life to thesoul.

Whatisthefurnacetothesteamengine?Itisthecauseofall itsmotionandpower.Themachinerymaybeproperlymade.Every screw, and valve, and joint, and crank,androdmaybeinitsrightplace.Butifthefurnaceiscoldandthewaterisnotturnedintosteam,theenginewilldonothing.Justsoisitwiththeheartinreligion.Unlesstheheartislightedwithfirefromonhigh,thesoulwillnotmove.

Wouldyouknowthereasonwhysuchmultitudesaroundyoutakenointerestintruereligion?TheyhavenorealconcernaboutGod,orChrist,ortheBible,orheaven,orhell,or judgment,oreternity.Theycarefornothingbutwhattheyshalleat,orwhatthey shall drink, or what they shall put on, or what money they can get, or whatpleasure they can have. It is their heart which is in fault! They have not the leastappetite for the things of God. They are destitute of any taste or inclination forspiritual things.Theyneed anewmainspring.Theyneed anewheart. "Therefore isthere a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he has no heart unto it."(Prov.17:16.)

Would you know the reasonwhy somany hear theGospel year after year, and yetremain unmoved by it? Their minds seem like Bunyan's "slough of despond."Cartloadsofgoodinstructionarepouredintothemwithoutproducinganygoodeffect.Their reason is convinced. Their head assents to the truth. Their conscience issometimespricked.Theirfeelingsaresometimesroused.Whythendotheystickfast?Whydotheytarry?Itistheirheartswhichareinfault!Somesecretidolchainsthemdowntotheearth,andkeepsthemtiedhandandfoot,sothattheycannotmove.Theyneedanewheart.TheirpictureisdrawnfaithfullybyEzekiel,"Theysitbeforeyouasmy people, and they hear your words—but they will not do them—for with theirmouth they showmuch love—but their heart goes after their covetousness." (Ezek.33:31.)

Wouldyouknowthereasonwhythousandsofso-calledChristianswillbelostatlast,

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and perish miserably in hell? They will not be able to say that God did not offersalvation to them. They will not be able to plead that Christ did not send theminvitations. Oh no! They will be obliged to confess that "all things were ready" forthem,excepttheirownhearts.Theirownheartswillprovetohavebeenthecauseoftheirruin!Thelife-boatwasalongsidethewreck—buttheywouldnotenterit.Christ"would"havegatheredthem—butthey"wouldnot"begathered.(Matt.23:37.)Christwould have saved them—but they would not be saved. "They loved darkness morethan light." Their hearts were in fault. "They would not come to Christ, that theymighthavelife."(John3:19;5:40.)

Ileavethisbranchofmysubject.ItrustIhavesaidenoughtoshowyoutheimmenseimportanceoftheheartinreligion.SurelyIhavegoodreasonforpressingthesubjectofthispaperonyournotice.Isyourheartright?IsitrightinthesightofGod?

II. I will now show you, in the second place, theheart that isWRONG in thesightofGod.Thereareonlytwosortsofhearts,arightoneandawrongone.Whatisawrongheartlike?

Thewrongheartisthenaturalheartwithwhichweareallborn.Therearenoheartswhich are right by nature. There are no such things as naturally "good hearts,"whatever some ignorantpeoplemayplease to sayabout "havingagoodheartat thebottom." Ever since Adam and Eve fell, and sin entered into the world, men andwomenarebornwithaninclinationtoevil.Everynaturalheartiswrong.Ifyourhearthasneverbeenchangedby theHolySpirit sinceyouwereborn,know thisday, thatyourheartiswrong.

Whatdoes theScripturesayabout thenaturalheart?Itsaysmany thingswhicharedeeplysolemn,andpainfullytrue.Itsaysthat"theheartisdeceitfulaboveallthings,anddesperatelywicked."(Jer.17:9.)Itsaysthat"everyimaginationofthethoughtsoftheheartisonlyevilcontinually."(Gen.6:5.)Itsaysthat"theheartofthesonsofmenisfullofevil."(Eccles.9:3.)Itsaysthat"Fromwithin,outoftheheartofman,"asoutof a fountain, "proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts,covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride,foolishness. All these evil things come from within." (Mark 7:21.) Truly this is ahumblingpicture!Theseedsofthesethingsareintheheartofeveryonebornintotheworld.SurelyImaywelltellyouthatthenaturalheartiswrong.

Butistherenoonecommonmarkofthewrongheart,whichistobeseeninallwhomGodhasnotchanged?Yes! there is;andto thatcommonmarkof thewrongheart Inowrequestyourattention.Thereisamoststrikingandinstructivefigureofspeech,whichtheHolySpirithasthoughtfittouse,indescribingthenaturalhear.Hecallsita"stonyheart."(Ezek.11:19.)IknownoemblemintheBiblesofullofinstruction,andsoaptandfittingasthisone.Atruerwordwasneverwrittenthanthatwhichcallsthe

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naturalheartaheartof stone.Markwellwhat Iamgoing to say;andmay theLordgiveyouunderstanding!

(a) A stone is HARD. All people know that. It is unyielding, unbending,unimpressible. Itmaybebroken—but itwillneverbend.Theproverb isworld-wide,"ashardasastone."Lookat thegranite rockswhich line thecoastofCornwall.ForfourthousandyearsthewavesoftheAtlanticOceanhavedashedagainsttheminvain.There they stand in their old hardness, unbroken andunmoved. It is just the samewiththenaturalheart.Afflictions,mercies,losses,crosses,sermons,counsels,books,tracts,speaking,writing—all,allareunabletosoftenit.UntilthedaythatGodcomesdowntochangeit,itremainsunmoved.Wellmaythenaturalheartbecalledaheartofstone!

(b) A stone is COLD. There is a chilly, icy feeling about it, which you know themomentyoutouchit.It isutterlyunlikethefeelingofflesh,orwood,orevenearth.Theproverb is in everyone'smouth, "As cold as a stone."Theoldmarble statues inmanyacathedralchurchhaveheardthesubstanceofthousandsofsermons.Yettheynevershowanyfeeling.Notamuscleoftheirmarblefacesevershrinksormoves.Itisjustthesamewiththenaturalheart.Itisutterlydestituteofspiritualfeeling.ItcareslessforthestoryofChrist'sdeathonthecross,thanitdoesforthelastnewnovel,orthelastdebateinParliament,ortheaccountofarailwayaccident,orashipwreck,oranexecution.UntilGodsendsfirefromheaventowarmit,thenaturalheartofmanhasnofeelingaboutreligion.Wellmayitbecalledaheartofstone!

(c)AstoneisBARREN.Youwillreapnoharvestoffrocksofanydescription.YouwillneverfillyourbarnswithgrainfromthetopofSnowdonorBenNevis.Youwillneverreapwheatongranite,orslate,oronflint.YoumaygetgoodcropsonNorfolksands,orCambridgeshirefens,orSuffolkclay,bypatience,labor,money,andgoodfarming.Butyouwillnevergetacropworthafarthingoffastone.Itisjustthesamewiththenaturalheart.Itisutterlybarrenofpenitence,orfaith,orlove,orfear,orholiness,orhumility.UntilGod breaks it up, and puts a newprinciple in it, it bears no fruit toGod'spraise.Wellmaythenaturalheartbecalledaheartofstone!

(d)A stone isDEAD. It neither sees,norhears,normoves,nor grows.Show it thegloriesofheaven,anditwouldnotbepleased.Tellitofthefiresofhell,anditwouldnotbealarmed.Biditfleefromaroaringlion,oranearthquake,anditwouldnotstir.TheBassRockandMountBlancare justwhat theywere4000yearsago.Theyhaveseen kingdoms rise and fall, and they remain utterly unchanged. They are neitherhigher,norbroader,nor larger than theywerewhenNoah left theark. It is just thesamewith the natural heart. It has not a spark of spiritual life about it. Until GodplantstheHolySpiritinit,itisdeadandmotionlessaboutrealreligion.Wellmaythenaturalheartbecalledaheartofstone!

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Thewrongheartisnowsetbeforeyou.Lookatit.Thinkaboutit.ExamineyourselfbythelightofthepictureIhavedrawn.Perhapsyourhearthasneveryetbeenchanged.Perhapsyourheartisstilljustasitwaswhenyouwereborn.Ifso,rememberthisdaywhatItellyou.YourheartiswronginthesightofGod!

Wouldyouknowthereasonwhyitissodifficulttodogoodintheworld?WouldyouknowwhysofewbelievetheGospel,andliveliketrueChristians?Thereasonis,thehardnessofman'snaturalheart.Heneitherseesnorknowswhatisforhisgood.Thewonder, tomymind, is not somuch that few are converted, as themiraculous factthatanyareconvertedatall.IamnotgreatlysurprisedwhenIseeorhearofunbelief.Irememberthenaturalheartiswrong.

Wouldyouknowthereasonwhythestateofpeopleissodesperatelyhelpless,iftheydieintheirsins?WouldyouknowwhyministersfeelsofearfulabouteveryonewhoiscutoffunpreparedtomeetGod?Thereasonis, thehardnessofman'snaturalheart.Whatwouldamandoinheaven,ifhegotthere,withhisheartunchanged?Bywhichofthesaintswouldhesitdown?WhatpleasurecouldhetakeinGod'spresenceandcompany?Oh no! it is vain to conceal it. There can be no real hope about aman'scondition,ifhedieswithhisheartwrong.

I leave thispointhere.Oncemore Ipress thewholesubjectofmypaperuponyourconscience.Surely youmustallow it is a very serious one. Is yourheart right? Is itrightinthesightofGod?

III.Iwillnowshowyou,inthelastplace,therightheart.ItisaheartofwhichtheBiblecontainsmanypictures.Iamgoingtotrytoplacesomeofthosepicturesbeforeyou.Onaquestionlikethis,IwantyoutoobservewhatGodsays,ratherthanwhatissaidbyman.Come,now,andseethemarksandsignsofarightheart.

(a)Therightheartisa"NEWheart."(Ezek.36:26.)Itisnottheheartwithwhichamanisborn—butanotherheartputinhimbytheHolySpirit.Itisaheartwhichhasnewtastes,newjoys,newsorrows,newdesires,newhopes,newfears,newlikes,newdislikes.Ithasnewviewsaboutthesoul,andsin,andGod,andChrist,andsalvation,andtheBible,andprayer,andheaven,andhell,andtheworld,andholiness.Itislikeafarmwithanewandgoodtenant."Oldthingsarepassedaway.Beholdall thingsarebecomenew."(2Cor.5:17.)

(b) The right heart is a "BROKEN and CONTRITE heart." (Psalm 51:17.) It isbrokenofffrompride,self-conceit,andself-righteousness.Itsformerhighthoughtsofselfarecracked,shattered,andshiveredtoatoms.Itthinksitselfguilty,unworthy,andcorrupt. Its former stubbornness, heaviness, and insensibility have thawed,disappeared, and passed away. It no longer thinks lightly of offending God. It istender, sensitive, and jealously fearful of running into sin. (2 Kings 22:19.) It is

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humble,lowly,andself-abased,andseesinitselfnogoodthing.

(c)ArightheartisaheartwhichBELIEVESonChristaloneforsalvation,andinwhichChristdwellsbyfaith. (Rom. 10:10;Eph.3:17.) It rests all itshopesofpardon and eternal life on Christ's atonement, Christ's mediation, and Christ'sintercession.ItissprinkledinChrist'sbloodfromanevilconscience.(Heb.10:22.)Itturns toChristas thecompass-needle turns to thenorth. It looks toChrist fordailypeace,mercy,andgrace—asthesun-flowerlookstothesun.ItfeedsonChristforitsdaily sustenance, as Israel fed on themanna in the wilderness. It sees in Christ aspecial fitness to supply all its needs and requirements. It leans onHim, hangs onHim,buildsonHim,cleavestoHim,asitsphysician,guardian,husband,andfriend.

(d)A rightheart isaPURIFIEDheart. (Acts 15:9;Matt.5:8) It lovesholiness, andhatessin.Itstrivesdailytocleanseitselffromallfilthinessoffleshandspirit.(2Cor.7:1.)Itabhorsthatwhichisevil,andcleavestothatwhich isgood.Itdelights inthelawofGod,andhasthatlawengravedonit,thatitmaynotforgetit.(Psalm119:11.)Itlongstokeepthelawmoreperfectly,andtakespleasureinthosewholovethelaw.ItlovesGodandman.Itsaffectionsaresetonthingsabove.Itneverfeelsso lightandhappyaswhen it ismostholy;and it looks forward toheavenwith joy,as the placewhereperfectholinesswillatlengthbeattained.

(e)ArightheartisaPRAYINGheart.Ithaswithinit"theSpiritofadoptionwherebywecry,AbbaFather." (Rom.8:15.) Itsdaily feeling is, "Your face,Lord,will I seek."(Psalm27:8.) It is drawnby anhabitual inclination to speak toGod about spiritualthings—weakly, feebly, and imperfectly perhaps—but speak it must. It finds itnecessarytopouroutitselfbeforeGod,asbeforeafriend,andtospreadbeforeHimallitsneedsanddesires.IttellsHimall itssecrets.ItkeepsbacknothingfromHim.Youmightaswelltrytopersuadeamantolivewithoutbreathing,astopersuadethepossessorofarighthearttolivewithoutpraying.

(f)ArightheartisaheartthatfeelswithinaCONFLICT.(Gal.5:17.)Itfindswithinitself two opposing principles contending for themastery—the flesh lusting againstthe spirit, and the spirit against the flesh. It knows by experiencewhat Paulmeanswhenhesays,"Iseealawinmymemberswarringagainstthelawofmymind."(Rom.7:23.)Thewrongheartknowsnothingofthisstrife.Thestrongmanarmedkeepsthewrong heart as his palace, and his goods are at peace. (Luke 11:21.) But when therightfulKing takespossessionof theheart,astrugglebeginswhichneverendsuntildeath.Therightheartmaybeknownbyitswarfare,quiteasmuchasbyitspeace.

(g)Last—butnotleast,therightheartisHONEST,andSINGLE,andTRUE. (Luke8:15;1Chron.12:33;Heb.10:22.)Thereisnothingaboutitoffalsehood,hypocrisy,orimage-acting.Itisnotdoubleordivided.Itreallyiswhatitprofessestobe,feelswhatitprofessestofeel,andbelieveswhat itprofesses tobelieve. Its faithmaybe feeble.

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Itsobediencemaybevery imperfect.Butone thingwillalwaysdistinguish the rightheart.Itsreligionwillbereal,genuine,thorough,andsincere.

AheartsuchasthatwhichIhavenowdescribed,hasalwaysbeenthepossessionofalltrueChristiansofeveryname,andnation,andpeopleandtongue.Theyhavedifferedfromoneanotheronmanysubjects—but theyhave all beenof a "rightheart."Theyhave someof them fallen, for a season, likeDavid andPeter—but their hearts haveneverentirelydepartedfromtheLord.Theyhaveoftenprovedthemselvestobemenandwomen ladenwith infirmities—but their hearts have been right in the sight ofGod. They have understood one another on earth. They have found that theirexperiencewaseverywhereoneandthesame.Theywillunderstandeachotherevenbetterintheworldtocome.Allthathavehad"righthearts"uponearth,willfindthattheyhaveoneheartwhentheyenterheaven.

CONCLUSION

(1)Iwishnowinconclusiontooffertoeveryreaderofthispaper,aQUESTIONtopromote self inquiry. I ask you plainly this day, "What is your heart? Is your heartrightorwrong?"

Iknownotwhoyouareintowhosehandsthispaperhavefallen.ButIdoknowthatself-examinationcannotdoyouanyharm.Ifyourheartisright,itwillbeacomforttoknow it. "If our heart condemns us not, then have we confidence towards God." (1John3:21.)Butifyourheartiswrong,itishightimetofinditout,andseekachange.Thetimeisshort.Thenightcomeswhennomancanwork.Saytoyourselfthisveryday,"Ismyheartrightorwrong?"

Thinknottosaywithinyourself,"Thereisnoneedforsuchquestionsasthese.Thereisnoneedtomakesuchadoabouttheheart.Igotochurchorchapelregularly.Ilivearespectablelife.IhopeIshallproverightatlast."Bewareofsuchthoughts,Ibeseechyou—bewareof them if youwouldeverbe saved.Youmaygo to thebest churchonearth, and hear the best of preachers. You may be the best of churchmen, or thesoundestmemberofachapel.Butallthistime,ifyourheartisnotrightinthesightofGod,youareonthehighroadtodestruction.Settledowntoquietconsiderationofthequestionbeforeyou.Lookitmanfullyintheface,anddonotturnaside.Isyourheartrightorwrong?

Thinknottosaywithinyourself,"Noonecanknowwhathisheartis.Wemusthopethebest.Noonecanfindoutwithanycertaintythestateofhisownsoul."Beware,Isayagain—bewareofsuchthoughts.Thethingcanbeknown.Thethingcanbefoundout.Dealhonestlyandfairlywithyourself.Setupa'trial'onthestateofyourinwardman.Summonajury.LettheBiblepresideasjudge.Bringupthewitnesses.Inquirewhatyourtastesare—whereyouraffectionsareplaced—whereyourtreasureis—what

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youhatemost—whatyoulovemost—whatpleasesyoumost—whatgrievesyoumost.Inquireintoallthosepointsimpartially,andmarkwhattheanswersare."Whereyourtreasureistherewillyourheartbealso."(Matt.6:21.)Atreemayalwaysbeknownbyits fruit, and a true Christian may always be discovered by his habits, tastes, andaffections.Yes!youmaysoonfindoutwhatyourheart is, ifyouarehonest,sincere,andimpartial.Isitrightorwrong?

Thinknottosaywithinyourself,"Iquiteapproveofallyousay,andhopetoexaminethe state of my heart some day. But I have no time just at present. I cannot findleisure. I wait for a convenient season." Oh, beware of such thoughts—again I saybeware! Life is uncertain, and yet you talk of "a convenient season." (Acts 24:25.)Eternityiscloseathand,andyetyoutalkofputtingoffpreparationtomeetGod.Alas,thathabitofputtingoffistheeverlastingruinofmillionsofsouls!Wretchedmanthatyouare!Whoshalldeliveryoufromthisdevilofputtingoff?Awaketoasenseofduty.Throwoffthechainsthatpride,andlaziness,andloveoftheworldareweavingroundyou. Arise and stand upon your feet, and look steadily at the question before you.Churchmanordissenter,Iaskyouthisday—Isyourheartrightorwrong?

(2)Iwish,inthenextplace,toofferaSOLEMNWARNINGtoallwhoknowtheirheartsarewrong—buthavenodesiretochange.Idoitwitheveryfeelingofkindnessand affection. I have no wish to excite needless fears. But I know not how toexaggeratethedangerofyourcondition.IwarnyouthatifyourheartiswronginthesightofGod,youarehangingoverthebrinkofhell!Thereisbutastepbetweenyouandeverlastingdeath!

Canyoureallysupposethatanymanorwomanwilleverenterheavenwithoutarightheart?Doyouflatteryourselfthatanyunconvertedpersonwilleverbesaved?Awaywithsuchamiserabledelusion!Cast it fromyouatonceandforever.WhatsaystheScripture?"ExceptamanbebornagainhecannotseethekingdomofGod.""Exceptyoube convertedand become as little children, you shall never see the kingdomofheaven.""Withoutholinessnoman shall see theLord." (John3:3;Matt. 18:3;Heb.12:14.)Itisnotenoughtohaveoursinspardoned,asmanyseemtosuppose.Thereisanotherthingneededaswellasapardon,andthatthingisanewheart.WemusthavetheHolySpirit torenewus,aswellasChrist'sbloodtowashus.Bothrenewingandwashingareneedfulbeforeanyonecanbesaved.

Can you suppose for amoment, that youwouldbehappy inheaven, if you enteredheavenwithoutarightheart?Awaywiththemiserabledelusion!Cast it fromyouatonceand forever!Youmusthavea"fitness for the inheritanceof thesaints,"beforeyoucanenjoyit.(Coloss.1:12.)Yourtastesmustbetunedandbroughtintoharmonywith thoseofsaintsandangels,beforeyoucandelight in their company.Asheep isnothappywhenitisthrownintothewater.Afishisnothappywhenitiscastondryland. And men and women would not be happy in heaven, if they entered heaven

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withoutrighthearts.

Mywarning is before you.Harden not your heart against it. Believe it. Act upon it.Turnittoaccount.Awakeandarisetonewnessoflifewithoutdelay.Onethingisverycertain.Whetheryouhearthewarningornot,GodwillnotgobackfromwhatHehassaid."Ifwebelievenot,Heabidesfaithful—HecannotdenyHimself."(2Tim.2:13.)

(3) Iwish, thirdly, toofferCOUNSELto allwhoknow theirhearts arewrong—butdesiretohavethemmaderight.Thatcounselisshortandsimple.IadviseyoutoapplyatoncetotheLordJesusChrist,andaskforthegiftoftheHolySpirit.EntreatHim,asalostandruinedsinner,toreceiveyou,andsupplytheneedsofyoursoul.Iknowwellthatyoucannotmakeyourownheartright.ButIknowthattheLordJesusChristcan.AndtotheLordJesusChristIentreatyoutoapplywithoutdelay.

Ifanyreaderofthispaperreallywantsarightheart,IthankGodthatIcangivehimgoodencouragement.IthankGodthatIcanliftupChristbeforeyou,andsayboldly,LookatChrist—SeekChrist—GotoChrist.ForwhatdidthatblessedLordJesuscomeintotheworld?ForwhatdidHegiveHispreciousbodytobecrucified?ForwhatdidHedieand riseagain?ForwhatdidHe ascendup intoheaven, and sit downat therighthandofGod?ForwhatdidChristdoallthis—buttoprovidecompletesalvationforpoorsinnerslikeyouandme—salvationfromtheguiltofsin,andsalvation fromthepowerofsin,forallwhobelieve!Oh,yes!ChristisnohalfSavior.Hehas"receivedgiftsformen,evenfortherebellious."(Psalm68:18.)HewaitstopourouttheSpiritonallwhowillcometoHim.Mercyandgrace—pardonandanewheart,allthisJesusisreadytoapplytoyoubyHisSpirit,ifyouwillonlycometoHim.Thencome—comewithoutdelaytoChrist.

What is there thatChristcannotdo?Hecancreate.ByHimwereall thingsmadeatthebeginning.HecalledthewholeworldintobeingbyHiscommand.Hecanquicken.He raised the dead when He was on earth, and gave back life by a word. He canchange.Hehasturnedsicknessintohealth,andweaknessintostrength—famineintoplenty,stormintocalm,andsorrow into joy.Hehaswrought thousandsofmiraclesonheartsalready.HeturnedPetertheunlearnedfishermanintoPetertheApostle.HeturnedMatthew the covetous publican into Matthew the Gospel writer. He turnedSaultheself-righteousPhariseeintoPaultheEvangelistoftheworld.WhatChristhasdoneonce,Christcandoagain.ChristandtheHolySpiritarealwaysthesame.ThereisnothinginyourheartthattheLordJesuscannotmakeright.OnlycometoChrist.

IfyouhadlivedinPalestine,inthedayswhenJesuswasuponearth,youwouldhavesought Christ's help if you had been sick. If you had been crushed down by heart-diseaseinsomebacklaneofCapernaum,orinsomecottagebythebluewatersoftheseaofGalilee,youwouldsurelyhavegonetoJesusforacure.Youwouldhavesatbytheway-sidedayafterday,waitingforHisappearing.YouwouldhavesoughtHim,if

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Hedidnothappentocomenearyourdwelling—andneverresteduntilyoufoundHim.Oh,whynotdothesamethisverydayforthesicknessofyoursoul?WhynotapplyatoncetotheGreatPhysicianinheaven,andaskHimto"takeawaythestonyheartandgiveyouaheartofflesh"?(Ezek.11:19.)OncemoreIinviteyou.Ifyouwanta"rightheart," do not waste time in trying tomake it right by your own strength. It is farbeyond your power to do it. Come to the great Physician of souls. Come at once toJesusChrist.

(4) Iwish, lastly, toofferanEXHORTATIONtoallwhoseheartshavebeenmaderightinthesightofGod.IofferitasawordinseasontoalltrueChristians.Hearme,Isaytoeverybelievingbrotherorsister.Ispeakespeciallytoyou.

Isyourheartright?Thenbethankful.PraisetheLordforHisdistinguishingmercy,in"callingyououtofdarknessintoHismarvelouslight."(1Pet.2:9.)Thinkwhatyouwere by nature. Think what has been done for you by free undeserved grace. Yourheartmaynotbeallthatitoughttobe,noryetallthatyouhopeitwillbe.Butatanyrateyourheart isnot theoldhardheartwithwhichyouwereborn.Surely themanwhoseheartischangedoughttobefullofpraise.

Isyourheartright?Thenbehumbleandwatchful.Youarenotyet inheaven—butin theworld.Youare in thebody.Thedevil isnearyou, andnever sleeps.Oh,keepyourheartwithalldiligence!Watchandpraylestyoufallintotemptation.AskChristHimselftokeepyourheartforyou.AskHimtodwellinit,andreigninit,andgarrisonit,andtoputdowneveryenemyunderHisfeet.Givethekeysofthecitadel intotheKing'sownhands,andleavethemthere.It isaweightysayingofSolomon,"Hewhotrustsinhisownheartisafool."(Prov.28:26.)

Isyourheartright?Thenbehopefulabouttheheartsofotherpeople.Whohasmadeyoutodiffer?Whyshouldnotanyone in theworldbechanged,whensuchaoneasyouhasbeenmadeanewcreature?Workon.Prayon.Speakon.Writeon.Labortodoall the good you can to souls.Never despair of anyone being saved so long as he isalive. Surely the man who has been changed by grace ought to feel thattherearenodesperatecases.TherearenoheartswhichitisimpossibleforChristtocure.

Isyourheartright?Thendonotexpecttoomuchfromit.Donotbesurprisedtofind it weak and wayward, faint and unstable, often ready to doubt and fear. Yourredemption is not complete until your Lord and Savior comes again. Your fullsalvation remains yet to be revealed. (Luke 21:28; 1 Pet. 1:5.) You cannot have twoheavens—a heaven here and a heaven hereafter. Changed, renewed, converted,sanctified,asyourheartis—youmustneverforgetthatitisa 'man'sheart'afterall—andtheheartofamanlivinginthemidstofawickedworld.

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Finally,letmeentreatallright-heartedreaderstolookonwardandforwardtothedayofChrist'ssecondcoming.AtimedrawsnearwhenSatanshallbebound,andChrist'ssaintsshallbechanged—whensinshallnomorevexus,andthesightofsinnersshallnomore sadden ourminds—when believers shall at length attend on God withoutdistraction,andloveHimwithaperfectheart.Forthatdayletuswait,andwatch,andpray.Itcannotbeveryfaroff.Thenightisfarspent.Thedayisathand.Surelyifourheartsareright,weoughtoftentocry,"Comequickly—comeLordJesus!

Christ'sInvitation

"Come unto Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."Matthew11:28

Thetextwhichheadsthispaperisonewhichdeservestobewritteninlettersofgold.Few verses of Scripture have donemore good to the souls of people than this oldfamiliarinvitationofourLordJesusChrist.Letusexamineitcarefully,andseewhatitcontains.

Therearefourpoints inthetextbeforeus, towhichIamgoingtoaskattention.OneachoftheseIhavesomewhattosay.

First.WhoistheSpeakerofthisinvitation?

Secondly.Towhomisthisinvitationaddressed?

Thirdly.WhatdoestheSpeakeraskustodo?

Lastly.WhatdoestheSpeakeroffertogive?

I.In the firstplace,WhoistheSPEAKERoftheinvitationwhichheadsthispaper?Whois it that invites so freely,andoffers so largely?Who is it that says toyourconsciencethisday,"Come—comeuntoMe"?

Wehavearighttoaskthesequestions.Welive ina lyingworld.Theearth is fullofcheats,shams,deceptions,impositionsandfalsehoods.Thevalueofapromissorynotedepends entirely on the name which is signed at the bottom. When we hear of amightyPromiser,wehavearighttosay,Whoisthis?andwhatisHisname?

TheSpeakeroftheinvitationbeforeyouisthegreatestandbestfriendthatmanhas

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everhad.ItistheLordJesusChrist,theeternalSonofGod.

HeisOnewhoisALMIGHTY.HeisGodtheFather'sfellowandequal.HeisveryGodofveryGod.ByHimwereall thingsmade. InHishandareall the treasuresofwisdom and knowledge.He has all power in heaven and earth. InHim all fullnessdwells.Hehasthekeysofdeathandhell.HeisnowtheappointedMediatorbetweenGodandman—HewillonedaybetheJudgeandKingofall theearth.WhensuchaOne as this speaks, you may safely trust Him. What He promises He is able toperform.(Zech.13:7;John1:3;Col.2:3,Matt.28:18;Col.1:19;Rev.1:18.)

HeisOnewhoismostLOVING.HelovedussothatHeleftheavenforoursakes,andlaidasideforaseasontheglorythatHehadwiththeFather.Helovedusso thatHe was born of a woman for our sakes, and lived thirty-three years in this sinfulworld.HelovedussothatHeundertooktopayourmightydebttoGod,anddieduponthe cross to make atonement for our sins. When such a One as this speaks, Hedeservesahearing.WhenHepromisesathing,youneednotbeafraidtotrustHim.

HeisOnewhoknowstheheartofmanmostthoroughly.He tookonHimabodylikeourown,andwasmadelikemaninallthings,sinonlyexcepted.Heknowsbyexperiencewhatmanhastogothrough.Hehastastedpoverty,andweariness,andhunger,andthirst,andpain,andtemptation.Heisacquaintedwithallourconditionuponearth.Hehas"sufferedHimselfbeingtempted."WhensuchaOneasthismakesan offer,Hemakes itwith perfectwisdom.He knows exactlywhat you and I need.(Heb.2:18.)

HeisOnewhoneverbreaksHisword.HealwaysfulfillsHispromises.HeneverfailstodowhatHeundertakes.HeneverdisappointsthesoulthattrustsHim.MightyasHeis,thereisonethingwhichHecannotdo—itisimpossibleforHimtolie.(Heb.6:18.)WhensuchanOneas thismakesapromise,youneednotdoubt thatHewillstandtoit.YoumaydependwithconfidenceonHisword.

Youhavenowheardwhosendstheinvitationwhichisbeforeyoutoday.ItistheLordJesusChrist.GiveHim the credit due toHis name.GrantHim a full and impartialbearing.BelievethatapromisefromHismouthdeservesyourbestattention.Seethatyou refuse not Him who speaks. It is written, "See that you don't refuse him whospeaks. For if they didn't escapewhen they refused himwhowarned on the Earth,how much more will we not escape who turn away from him who warns fromheaven."(Heb.12:25.)

II.Iwillnowshowyou,inthesecondplace,towhomtheinvitationbeforeyouisaddressed.

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TheLordJesusChristaddresses"allwholaborandareheavy-laden."Theexpressionis deeply comforting and instructive. It is wide, sweeping, and comprehensive. Itdescribesthecaseofmillionsineverypartoftheworld.

Wherearethelaboringandheavy-laden?Theyareeverywhere.Theyareamultitudethatman can scarcely number; they are to be found in every climate, and in everycountryunder thesun.They live inEurope, inAsia, inAfrica, and inAmerica.TheydwellbythebanksoftheSeine,aswellasthebanksoftheThames—bythebanksoftheMississippiaswellasthebanksoftheNiger.Theyaboundunderrepublicsaswellas under monarchies—under liberal governments as well as under despotism.Everywhereyouwill find trouble, care, sorrow, anxiety,murmuring,discontent, andunrest.Whatdoesitmean?Whatdoesitallcometo?Peopleare"laboringandheavy-laden."

Towhat classdo the laboringandheavy ladenbelong?Theybelong to every class—thereisnoexception.Theyaretobefoundamongmastersaswellasamongservants—amongrichaswellasamongpoor—amongkingsaswellasamongsubjects—amonglearnedaswell as among ignorantpeople. In every class youwill find trouble, care,sorrow,anxiety,murmuring,discontent,andunrest.Whatdoesitmean?Whatdoesitallcometo?Peopleare"laboringandheavy-laden."

Howshallweexplainthis?WhatisthecauseofthestateofthingswhichIhavejusttriedtodescribe?DidGodcreatemanatthebeginningtobeunhappy?Mostcertainlynot.Arehumangovernments toblamebecause people are not happy?Atmost to averyslightextent.The fault lies far toodeep tobe reachedbyhuman laws.There isanothercause,acausewhichmanyunhappilyrefusetosee.THATCAUSEISSIN.

SinanddeparturefromGod,arethetruereasonswhypeopleareeverywherelaboringand heavy-laden. Sin is the universal disease which infects the whole earth. Sinbroughtinthornsandthistlesatthebeginning,andobligedmantoearnhisbreadbythesweatofhisbrow.Sinisthereasonwhythe"wholecreationgroansandtravailsinpain,"andthe"foundationsoftheearthareoutofcourse."(Rom.8:22;Psalm82:5.)Sinisthecauseofalltheburdenswhichnowpressdownmankind.Mostpeopleknowitnot,andwearythemselves invaintoexplainthestateof thingsaroundthem.Butsin is the great root and foundation of all sorrow, whatever proudmanmay think.Howmuchpeopleoughttohatesin!

Areyouoneofthosewhoarelaboringandheavy-laden?Ithinkitverylikelythatyouare.Iamfirmlypersuadedthattherearethousandsofmenandwomenintheworldwho are inwardly uncomfortable, and yetwill not confess it. They feel a burden ontheirhearts,which theywould gladly get rid of; and yet they donot know theway.Theyhaveaconvictionthatallisnotrightintheirinwardman,whichtheynevertellto anyone. Husbands do not tell it to their wives, and wives do not tell it to their

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husbands; children do not tell it to their parents, and friends do not tell it to theirfriends. But the inward burden lies heavily on many hearts! There is far moreunhappiness than the world sees. Disguise it as some will, there are multitudesuncomfortablebecausetheyknowtheyarenotpreparedtomeetGod.Andyou,whoarereadingthisvolume,perhapsareone.

Ifanyreaderof thispaper is "laboringandheavy-laden," youare theveryperson towhomtheLordJesusChristsendsaninvitationthisday.Ifyouhaveanachingheart,andasoreconscience—ifyouwantrestforawearysoul,andknownotwheretofindit—ifyouwantpeaceforaguiltyheart,andareatalosswhichwaytoturn—youaretheman,youarethewoman,towhomJesusspeakstoday.Thereishopeforyou.Ibringyougoodtidings."ComeuntoMe,"saystheLordJesus,"andIwillgiveyourest."

Youmay tellme this invitation cannotbemeant for you, because you are not goodenoughtobeinvitedbyChrist.Ianswer,thatJesusdoesnotspeaktothegood—buttothe"laboringandheavy-laden."Doyouknowanythingof this feeling?ThenyouareonetowhomHespeaks.

Youmaytellmethattheinvitationcannotbemeantforyou,becauseyouareasinner,andknownothingabout religion. Ianswer, that itmattersnothingwhatyouare,orwhat youhavebeen.Do you at thismoment feel "laboring and heavy-laden"? ThenyouareonetowhomJesusspeaks.

Youmaytellmethatyoucannotthinktheinvitationismeantforyou,becauseyouarenotyetconverted,andhavenotgotanewheart. Ianswer, thatChrist's invitation isnot addressed to the converted—but to the "laboring and heavy-laden." Is thiswhatyou feel? Is there any burden on your heart? Then you are one of those to whomChristspeaks.

Youmaytellmethatyouhavenorighttoacceptthis invitation,becauseyoudonotknowthatyouareoneofGod'select.Ianswer,thatyouhavenorighttoputwordsinChrist'smouth,whichHehasnotused.Hedoesnotsay,"ComeuntoMe,allyouthatare elect." He addresses all the "laboring and heavy-laden ones," without anyexception.Areyouoneofthem?Isthereweightwithinonyoursoul?Thisistheonlyquestionyouhavetodecide.Ifyouare,youareoneofthosetowhomChristspeaks.

Ifyouareoneofthe"laboringandheavy-laden"ones,oncemoreIentreatyounottorefusetheinvitationwhichIbringyoutoday.Donotforsakeyourownmercies.Theharbor of refuge is freely before you—donot turn away from it. The best of friendsholds out His hand to you—let not pride, or self-righteousness, or fear of man'sridicule,makeyourejectHisoffered love.TakeHimatHisword.Say toHim,"LordJesusChrist,IamoneofthosewhomYourinvitationsuits—Iamlaboringandheavy-laden.Lord,whatwillYouhavemetodo?"

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III.Iwillnowshowyou,inthethirdplace,whattheLordJesusChristasksyoutodo.ThreewordsmakeupthesumandsubstanceoftheinvitationwhichHesendsyoutoday.Ifyouare"laboringandheavy-laden,"Jesussays,"ComeuntoMe."

Thereisagrandsimplicityaboutthethreewordsnowbeforeyou.Shortandplainasthesentenceseems,itcontainsamineofdeeptruthandsolidcomfort.Weighit—lookatit—considerit—ponderitwell.Ibelievethatit isonehalfofsavingChristianitytounderstandwhatJesusmeans,whenHesays,"ComeuntoMe."

Mark well, that the Lord Jesus does not bid the laboring and heavy-laden "go andwork." Thosewordswould carry no comfort to heavy consciences—it would be likerequiringlaborfromanexhaustedman.No—Hebidsthem"Come!"Hedoesnotsay,"PayMe what you owe." That demand would drive a broken heart into despair—itwouldbelikeclaimingadebtfromaruinedbankrupt.No—Hesays,"Come!"Hedoesnotsay,"Standstillandwait."Thatcommandwouldonlybeamockery—itwouldbelikepromisingtogivemedicineattheendofaweektooneatthepointofdeath."No—Hesays,"Come!"Today—atonce—withoutanydelay,"ComeuntoMe."

But,afterall,whatismeantbycomingtoChrist?Itisanexpressionoftenused—butoftenmisunderstood.Bewarethatyoumakenomistakeatthispoint.Hereunhappily,thousandsturnasideoutoftherightcourse,andmissthetruth.Bewarethatyoudonotmakeshipwreckattheverymouthoftheharbor.

(a)Takenotice,thatcomingtoChristmeanssomethingmorethancomingtochurch and chapel. Youmay fill your place regularly at a place of worship, andattend all outwardmeans of grace, and yet not be saved. All this is not coming toChrist.

(b)Takenotice,thatcomingtoChristissomethingmorethancomingtotheLord'stable. Youmay be a regularmember and communicant; youmay never bemissing inthe listsof thosewhoeat thatbreadanddrinkthatwine,whichtheLordcommandedtobereceived,andyetyoumayneverbesaved.AllthisisnotcomingtoChrist.

(c) Take notice, that coming to Christ is something more than coming toministers. Youmay be a constant hearer of some popular preacher, and a zealouspartisanofallhisopinions,andyetneverbesaved.AllthisisnotcomingtoChrist.

(d) Take notice, once more, that coming to Christ is something more thancomingtothepossessionofhead-knowledgeaboutHim.Youmayknow thewholesystemofevangelicaldoctrine,andbeabletotalk,argue,anddisputeoneveryjotofit,andyetneverbesaved.AllthisisnotcomingtoChrist.

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Coming to Christ is coming to Him with the heart by simple FAITH.BelievingonChristiscomingtoHim,andcomingtoChristisbelievingonHim.Itisthatactofthesoulwhichtakesplacewhenaman,feelinghisownsins,anddespairingof all other hope, commits himself to Christ for salvation, ventures onHim, trustsHim, and casts himselfwholly onHim.When aman turns toChrist empty that hemaybefilled,sickthathemaybehealed,hungrythathemaybesatisfied,thirstythathemayberefreshed,needythathemaybeenriched,dyingthathemayhavelife,lostthat he may be saved, guilty that he may be pardoned, sin-defiled that he may becleansed,confessingthatChristalonecansupplyhisneed—thenhecomestoChrist.When he uses Christ as the Jews used the city of refuge, as the starving EgyptiansusedJoseph,asthedyingIsraelitesusedthebrazenserpent—thenhecomestoChrist.Itistheemptysoul'sventureonafullSavior.It is thedrowningman'sgrasponthehandheldouttohelphim.Itisthesickman'sreceptionofahealingmedicine.This,andnothingmorethanthis,iscomingtoChrist.

Let every reader of this paper accept at this point a word of caution. Beware ofmistakes as to this matter of coming to Christ. Do not stop short in any half-wayhouse.Donotallow thedevil and theworld to cheat yououtof eternal life.Donotsuppose that youwill ever get any good fromChrist, unless you go straight, direct,thoroughly,andentirelytoChristHimself.Trustnotinalittleoutwardformality;donotcontent yourselfwith a regular use of outwardmeans.A lantern is an excellenthelpinadarknight—butitisnothome.Meansofgraceareusefulaids—buttheyarenotChrist.Oh,no!Pressonward,forward,upward,untilyouhavehadpersonal,heart-feltdealingswithChristHimself.

Beware ofmistakes as to themanner of coming toChrist.Dismiss from yourmindforeverallideaofworthiness,merit,andfitnessinyourself.Throwawayallnotionsofgoodness, righteousness, and personal deservings. Think not that you can bringanything to recommendyou, or tomake youdeserving ofChrist's notice. YoumustcometoHimasapoor,guilty,undeservingsinner,oryoucannotcomeatall."Buttohim who doesn't work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith isaccounted for righteousness. " (Rom. 4:5.) It is the peculiarmark of the faiththatjustifiesandsaves,thatitbringstoChristnothingbutanemptyhand.

Last—butnotleast,lettherebenomistakeinyourmindastothespecialcharacterofthemanwhohascometoChrist,andisatrueChristian.Heisnotanangel;heisnotahalf-angelicbeing,inwhomisnoweakness,orblemish,orinfirmity—heisnothingofthekind.Heisnothingmorethanasinnerwhohasfoundouthissinfulness,andhaslearnedtheblessedsecretoflivingbyfaithinChrist.Whatwasthegloriouscompanyoftheapostlesandprophets?Whatwasthenoblearmyofmartyrs?WhatwereIsaiah,Daniel, Peter, James, John, Paul, Polycarp, Chrysostom, Augustine, Luther, Ridley,Latimer,Bunyan,Baxter,Whitefield,Venn,Chalmers,Bickersteth,M'Cheyne?Whatwere theyall—but sinnerswhoknewand felt their sins, and trustedonly inChrist?

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What were they—but people who accepted the invitation I bring you this day, andcametoChristbyfaith?Bythisfaiththeylived—inthisfaiththeydied.Inthemselvesandtheirdoings theysawnothingworthmentioning;but inChrist theysawall thattheirsoulsrequired.

TheinvitationofChristisnowbeforeyou.Ifyouneverlistenedtoitbefore,listentoittoday. Broad, full, free, wide, simple, tender, kind—that invitation will leave youwithoutexcuseifyourefusetoacceptit.Therearesomeinvitations,perhaps,whichitiswiserandbettertodecline.Thereisonewhichoughtalwaystobeacceptedthatoneisbeforeyoutoday.JesusChristissaying,"Come—comeuntoMe."

IV.Iwillnowshowyou,inthelastplace,whattheLordJesusChristpromisestogive.Hedoesnotaskthe"laboringandheavy-laden"tocometoHimfornothing.He holds out gracious inducements—He allures them by sweet offers. "Come untoMe,"Hesays,"andIwillgiveyourest."

Restisapleasantthing.Fewarethemenandwomeninthiswearyworldwhodonotknowthesweetnessofit.Themanwhohasbeenlaboringhardwithhishandsalltheweek, working in iron, or brass, or stone, or wood, or clay—digging, lifting,hammering, cutting—he knows the comfort of going home on Saturday night, andhaving one day of rest. Themanwho has been toiling hardwith his head all day—writing,copying,calculating, composing, scheming,planning—heknows the comfortoflayingasidehispapers,andhavingalittlerest.Yes!restisapleasantthing.

AndrestisoneoftheprincipalofferswhichtheGospelmakestoman."Cometome,"says theworld, "and Iwill give you riches andpleasure." "Comewithme," says thedevil,"andIwillgiveyougreatness,power,andwisdom.""ComeuntoMe,"saystheLordJesusChrist,"andIwillgiveyourest."

Butwhat is the nature of that restwhich theLord Jesus promises to give? It is nomerereposeofbody.Amanmayhavethatandyetbemiserable.Youmayplacehiminapalace,andsurroundhimwitheverypossiblecomfort.Youmaygivehimmoneyinabundance,andeverythingthatmoneycanbuy.Youmayfreehimfromallcareabouttomorrow'sbodilyneeds,andtakeawaytheneedoflaboringforasinglehour.Allthisyoumaydo toaman,andyetnotgivehimtruerest.Thousandsknowthisonly toowell by bitter experience. Their hearts are starving in the midst of worldly plenty.Theirinwardmanissickandweary,whiletheiroutwardmanisclothedinpurpleandfinelinen,andfaressumptuouslyeveryday!Yes—amanmayhavehouses,andlands,and money, and horses, and carriages, and soft beds, and good fare, and attentiveservants—andyetnothavetruerest.

The rest thatChristgives isan inwardandspiritual thing. It is restofheart, restofconscience, restofmind, restofaffection, restofwill. It is rest, froma comfortable

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senseofsinsbeingall forgivenandguiltallputaway.It isrest,fromasolidhopeofgoodthingstocome,laidupbeyondthereachofdisease,anddeath,andthegrave. Itis rest, from thewell-grounded feeling, that the great business of life is settled, itsgreatendprovidedfor,thatintimealliswelldone,andineternityheavenwillbeourhome.

(a)RestsuchasthistheLordJesusgivestothosewhocometoHim,byshowingthemHis own finished work on the cross, by clothing them in His own perfectrighteousness,andwashingtheminHisownpreciousblood.Whenamanbegins toseethattheSonofGodactuallydiedforhissins,hissoulbeginstotastesomethingofinwardquietandpeace.

(b)Rest such as this the Lord Jesus gives to thosewho come toHim, by revealingHimself as their ever-living High Priest in heaven, and God reconciled to themthroughHim.WhenamanbeginstoseethattheSonofGodactuallylivestointercedeforhim,hewillbegintofeelsomethingofinwardquietandpeace.

(c)Restsuchas this theLordJesusgives to thosewhocometoHim,by implantingHisSpiritintheirhearts,witnessingwiththeirspiritsthattheyareGod'schildren,andthatoldthingsarepassedaway,andallthingsarebecomenew.WhenamanbeginstofeelaninwarddrawingtowardsGodasaFather,andasenseofbeinganadoptedandforgivenchild,hissoulbeginstofeelsomethingofquietandpeace.

(d)RestsuchasthistheLordJesusgivestothosewhocometoHim,bydwelling intheirheartsasKing,byputtingallthingswithininorder,andgivingtoeachfacultyitsplaceandwork.Whenamanbeginstofindorderinhisheartinplaceofrebellionandconfusion,his soul begins tounderstand somethingof quiet andpeace.There is notrueinwardhappiness,untilthetrueKingisonthethrone.

(e)Restsuchasthis istheprivilegeofallbelievers inChrist.Someknowmoreof itandsomeless;somefeel itonlyatdistant intervals,andsomefeel italmostalways.Few enjoy the sense of itwithoutmany a battlewith unbelief, andmany a conflictwith fear.But allwho truly come toChrist, knowsomethingof this rest.Ask them,withalltheircomplaintsanddoubts,whethertheywouldgiveupChristandgobacktotheworld.Youwillgetonlyoneanswer.Weakastheirsenseofrestmaybe, theyhavegotholdofsomethingwhichdoesthemgood,andthatsomethingtheycannotletgo.

(f)Restsuchasthisiswithinreachofallwhoarewillingtoseekitandreceiveit.Thepoormanisnotsopoorbuthemayhaveit;theignorantmanisnotsoignorantbuthemayknowit;thesickmanisnotsoweakandhelplessbuthemaygetholdofit.Faith,simplefaith,istheonethingneedfulinordertopossessChrist'srest.FaithinChrististhegrandsecretofhappiness.Neitherpoverty,norignorance,nor tribulation,

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nordistresscanpreventmenandwomenfeelingrestofsoul,iftheywillonlycometoChristandbelieve.

(g)Rest such as this is the possessionwhichmakes people independent of worldlychanges. Banks may break, and money make itself wings and flee away. War,pestilence,andfaminemaybreakinonaland,andthefoundationsoftheearthbeoutofcourse.Healthandvigormaydepart,andthebodybecrusheddownbyloathsomedisease. Death may cut down wife, and children, and friends, until he who onceenjoyedthemstandsentirelyalone.ButthemanwhohascometoChristbyfaith,willstillpossess somethingwhich canneverbe taken fromhim.LikePaul andSilas,hewillsinginprison.LikeJob,bereavedofchildrenandproperty,hewillblessthenameof theLord. (Acts 16:25; Job 1:21.)He is the truly independentmanwho possessesthatwhichnothingcantakeaway.

(h)Restsuchasthisisthepossessionwhichmakespeopletrulyrich.Itlasts;itwears;it endures. It lightens the solitary home. It smooths the dying pillow. It goes withpeoplewhentheyareplacedintheircoffins.Itabideswiththemwhentheyarelaidintheir graves.When friends can no longer help us, andmoney is no longer of use—whendoctorscannolongerrelieveourpain,andnursescannolongerministertoourneeds—whensensebeginstofail,andeyeandearcannolongerdotheirduty—then,even then, the "rest" which Christ gives will be shed abroad in the heart of thebeliever.Thewords"rich"and"poor"willchangetheirmeaningentirelyoneday.HeistheonlyrichmanwhohascometoChristbyfaith,andfromChristhasreceivedrest.ThisistherestwhichChristofferstogivetoallwhoare"laboringandheavy-laden."

This is the rest forwhichHe invites them to come toHim.This is the restwhich Iwantyoutoenjoy,andtowhichIbringyouaninvitationthisday.MayGodgrantthattheinvitationmaynotbebroughttoyouinvain!

(1) Does any reader of this paper feel ignorant of the "rest" of which I have beenspeaking? If so,whathaveyougot fromyour religion?You live inaChristian land;youprofessandcallyourselfaChristian.YouhaveprobablyattendedaChristianplaceofworshipmanyyears.Youwouldnotliketobecalledaninfideloraheathen.YetallthistimewhatbenefithaveyoureceivedfromyourChristianity!Whatsolidadvantagehaveyouobtainedfromit?Foranythingonecansee,youmightjustaswellhavebeenaTurkoraJew.

Takeadvicethisday,andresolvetopossesstherealitiesofChristianityaswellasthename, and the substance as well as the form. Do not be content until you knowsomethingofthepeace,andhope,andjoy,andconsolationwhichChristiansenjoyedinformertimes.AskyourselfwhatisthereasonthatyouareastrangertothefeelingswhichmenandwomenexperiencedinthedaysoftheApostles.Askyourselfwhyyoudo not "rejoice in the Lord," and feel "peace with God," like the Romans and

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Philippians,towhomPaulwrote.Religiousfeelings,nodoubt,areoftendeceptive;butsurely the religionwhich produces no feelings at all is not the religion of the NewTestament.Thereligionwhichgivesamannoinwardcomfort,canneverbeareligionfromGod.Takeheedtoyourself.Neverbesatisfieduntilyouknowsomethingofthe"restthatisinChrist."

(2)Doesanyreaderofthispaperdesirerestofsoul,andyetknowsnotwheretoturnfor it? Remember this day, that there is only one place where it can be found.Governmentscannotgiveit;educationwillnotimpartit;worldlyamusementscannotsupplyit;moneywillnotpurchaseit.ItcanonlybefoundinthehandofJesusChrist—andtoHishandyoumustturn,ifyouwouldfindpeacewithin.

There isnoroyal road to restof soul.Let thatneverbe forgotten.There isonlyonewaytotheFather—JesusChrist;onedoorintoheaven—JesusChrist;andonepathtoheart-peace—JesusChrist.By thatwayall "laboringandheavy-laden"onesmustgo,whatever be their rank or condition. Kings in their palaces and paupers in theworkhouse,areallonalevelinthismatter.AllalikemustcometoChrist,iftheyfeelsoul-wearyandathirst.Allmustdrinkofthesamefountain,iftheywouldhavetheirthirstrelieved.

YoumaynotbelievewhatIamnowwriting.Timewillshowwhoisright,andwhoiswrong.Go on, if youwill, imagining that true happiness is to be found in the goodthings of thisworld. Seek it, if youwill, in reveling and banqueting, in dancing andmerry-making,inracesandtheaters,insportsandcards.Seekitifyouwill,inreadingandscientific pursuits, inmusic and painting, in politics and business. Seek it—butyouwillneverovertakeit,unlessyouchangeyourplan.Realheart-restisnevertobefoundexceptinheart-unionwithJesusChrist.

ThePrincessElizabeth,daughterofCharles I, liesburied inNewport church, in theIsleofWight.Amarblemonument,erectedbyourgraciousQueenVictoria,recordsinatouchingwaythemannerofherdeath.ShelanguishedinCarisbrookCastleduringthe unhappy Commonwealth wars, a prisoner, alone, and separate from all thecompanionsofheryouth,untildeathsether free.Shewas founddeadonedaywithherhead leaningonherBible,and theBibleopenat thewords, "ComeuntoMe,allyou who labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest." The monument inNewportchurchrecordsthisfact.Itconsistsofafemalefigurerecliningherheadonamarblebook,withthetextalreadyquotedengravedonthebook.Thinkwhatasermoninstonethatmonumentpreaches.Think,whatastandingmemorial itaffordsof theutter inability of rank and high birth to confer certain happiness! Think what atestimonyitbearstothelessonbeforeyouthisday—themightylessonthatthereisnotruerestforanyoneexceptinginChrist!Happywillitbeforyoursoulifthatlessonisneverforgotten!

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(3)DoesanyreaderofthispaperdesiretopossesstherestthatChristalonecangive,and yet feel afraid to seek it? I beseech you, as a friend to your soul, to cast thisneedless fearaway.ForwhatdidChristdieon thecross, ifnot to save sinners?ForwhatdoesHesitattherighthandofGod,ifnottoreceiveandintercedeforsinners?WhenChristinvitesyousoplainly,andpromisessofreely,whyshouldyourobyourownsoul,andrefusetocometoHim?

Who,amongallthereadersofthispaper,desirestobesavedbyChrist,andyetisnotsaved at present? Come, I beseech you—come to Christ without delay. Though youhavebeenagreat sinner,Come!Thoughyouhave long resistedwarnings, counsels,sermons, Come! Though you have sinned against light and knowledge, against afather's advice and a mother's tears, Come! Though you have plunged into everyexcessofwickedness, and livedwithoutprayer, yetCome!Thedoor isnot shut, thefountainisnotyetclosed.JesusChristinvitesyou.Itisenoughthatyoufeellaboringandheavy-laden,anddesiretobesaved.Come!CometoChristwithoutdelay!

Come toHimby faith, andpourout yourheart beforeHim in prayer. TellHim thewholestoryofyourlife,andaskHimtoreceiveyou.CrytoHimasthepenitentthiefdid,whenhesawHimonthecross.SaytoHim,"Lord,savemealso!Lord,rememberme!"Come!CometoChristwithoutdelay!

Ifyouhavenevercometothispointyet,youmustcometoitatlast,ifyoumeantobesaved.YoumustapplytoChristasasinner;youmusthavepersonaldealingswiththegreatPhysician,andapplytoHimforacure.Whynotdoitatonce?Whynotthisverydayacceptthegreat invitation?Oncemore,Irepeatmyexhortation.Come!CometoChristwithoutdelay!

(4)Hasanyreaderof thispaper foundtherestwhichChristgives?Haveyou tastedtruepeacebycomingtoHimandcastingyoursoulonHim?Thengoontotheendofyourdaysasyouhavebegun,lookingtoJesusandlivingonHim.Goondrawingdailyfullsuppliesofrest,peace,mercy,andgracefromthegreatfountainofrestandpeace.Rememberthat,ifyoulivetotheageofMethuselah,youwillneverbeanythingbutapooremptysinner,owingallyouhaveandhopefor,toChristalone.

Neverbeashamedof living the lifeof faith inChrist.Peoplemay ridiculeandmockyou,andevensilenceyouinargument;buttheycannevertakefromyouthefeelingswhich faith inChristgives.Theycanneverpreventyou feeling, "Iwaswearyuntil IfoundChrist—but now I have rest of conscience. Iwas blind—but now I see. Iwasdead—butIamaliveagain.Iwaslost—butIamfound."

Invite all around you to come to Christ. Use every lawful effort to bring father,mother, husband, wife, children, brothers, sisters, friends, relatives, companions,fellow-workmen, servants—to bring all and everyone to the knowledge of the Lord

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Jesus. Sparenopains. Speak to themabout Christ—speak to Christ about them. Beinstantinseason,outofseason.Saytothem,asMosesdidtoHobab,"Comeyouwithus, and we will do you good." (Num. 10:29.) The more you work for the souls ofothers,themoreblessingwillyougetforyourownsoul.

Last—butnotleast, lookforwardwithconfidencetoabetterrest inaworldtocome.Yetalittletime,andHewhoshallcome,willcome,andwillnottarry.Hewillgathertogether all who have believed in Him, and take His people to a home where thewickedshallceasefromtroubling,andthewearyshallbeatperfectrest.Heshallgivethemagloriousbody, inwhich they shall serveHimwithoutdistraction, andpraiseHimwithoutweariness.Heshallwipeawaytearsfromallfaces,andmakeallthingsnew.(Isa,25:8.)

There is a good time coming for all who have come to Christ and committed theirsouls intoHis keeping. They shall "remember all theway bywhich they have beenled,"andsee thewisdomofeverystep in theway.Theyshallwonder that theyeverdoubted the kindness and love of their Shepherd. Above all, they shallwonder thatthey could live so long without Him, and that when they heard of Him they couldhesitateaboutcomingtoHim.

There isapass inScotlandcalledGlencoe,which suppliesabeautiful illustrationofwhat heaven will be to the man who comes to Christ. The road through Glencoecarriesthetravelerupalongandsteepascent,withmanyalittlewindingandmanyalittleturninitscourse.Butwhenthetopofthepassisreached,astoneisseenbythewayside,withthesesimplewordsengravedonit,"Rest,andbethankful."Thosewordsdescribe the feelingswithwhich everyonewho comes to Christwill at length enterheaven.Thesummitof thenarrowwaywillbewon.Weshall cease fromourwearyjourneying,andsitdowninthekingdomofGod.Weshalllookbackoverallthewayoflifewiththankfulness,andseetheperfectwisdomofeverylittlewindingandturnin the steep ascent by which we were led. We shall forget the toils of the upwardjourney in thegloriousrest.Here in thisworldour senseof rest inChristatbest isfeebleandpartial—but,"whenthatwhichisperfectiscome,thenthatwhichisinpartshall be done away." (1 Cor. 13:10.) Thanks be unto God—a day is coming whenbelieversshallrestperfectly,andbethankful.

Faith

"Godsolovedtheworld,thatHegaveHisonlybegottenSon,thatwhoeverbelievesinHimshouldnotperish—buthaveeverlastinglife."John3:16

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There are few texts better known than that which heads this page. Its words areprobably familiar to your ears. You have very likely heard them, or read them, orquotedthem,ahundredtimes.Buthaveyoueverconsideredwhatavastamountofdivinity this textcontains?NowonderthatLuthercalled it "theBible inminiature!"Andhaveyoueverconsideredwhatanimmenselysolemnquestionarisesoutofthistext?TheLordJesussays,"Whoeverbelievesshallnotperish."Now,reader,DOYOUBELIEVE?

Questionsaboutreligionareseldompopular.Theyfrightenpeople.Theyobligethemto lookwithin and to think. The insolvent tradesman does not like his books to besearched. The faithless steward does not like his accounts to be examined. And theunconvertedprofessingChristiandoesnotliketobeaskedhome-questionsabouthissoul.

But questions about religion are very useful. The Lord Jesus Christ asked manyquestionsduringHisministryonearth.TheservantofChristoughtnottobeashamedtodolikewise.Questionsaboutthingsnecessarytosalvation—questionswhichprobetheconscience,andbringmenfacetofacewithGod—suchquestionsoftenbringlifeandhealth to souls. I know fewquestionsmore important than the one before youtoday.DOYOUBELIEVE?

Reader,thequestionbeforeyouisnoeasyonetoanswer.Thinknottothrustitasidebytheoff-handanswer,"OfcourseIbelieve."Itellyouthisday,thattruebeliefisnosuch "matter of course" as you suppose. I tell you thatmyriads of Protestants andRomanCatholics are constantly saying on Sundays, "I believe," who know nothingwhateverofbelieving.Theycannotexplainwhattheymean.Theyneitherknowwhat,norinwhom,theybelieve.Theycangivenoaccountoftheirfaith.Reader,abeliefofthiskindisutterlyuseless.Itcanneithersatisfy,norsanctify,norsave.

Iinviteyouinallaffection,toconsiderthequestionwhichheadsthistract.IaskyoutogivemeyourattentionwhileI trytoplace itbeforeyou in its fullproportions. Inordertoseeclearlytheimportanceof"believing,"youshouldponderwellthewordsofChrist towhich Ihavealready referred. It isby theunfoldingof thesewords, that Ishallhopetomakeyoufeeltheweightofthequestion,"Doyoubelieve?"

TherearefourthingswhichIwishtoshowyou,andtoimpressuponyourmind.

I.God'smindtowardstheworld—He"loved"it.

2.God'sgifttotheworld—"HegaveHisonlybegottenSon."

3.TheonlywaytoobtainthebenefitofGod'sgift—"WhoeverbelievesonHimshallnotperish."

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4.Themarksbywhichtruebeliefmaybeknown.

Reader, I invite you to followme step by step through the four points I have juststated.Donot throwdown this tract inangeror impatience—but read it to the end.OnethingIdesireinwritingit,andthatis,YOURSALVATION.

I. Let us consider, in the first place—God'smind towards the world—He"loved"it.

TheextentoftheFather'slovetowardstheworldisasubjectonwhichthereissomedifferenceofopinion. It is a subjectonwhich Ihave long takenmy side, andneverhesitatetospeakmymind.IbelievethattheBibleteachesus,thatGod'sloveextendstoallmankind."HistendermerciesareoverallHisworks"(Psalm145:9).Hedidnotlove the Jews only—but theGentiles also.He does not loveHis own elect only.Helovesalltheworld.

ButwhatkindofloveisthiswithwhichtheFatherregardsallmankind?Itcannotbea loveofdelight,or elseHewouldcease tobeaperfectGod.He isonewhocannotbearthatwhichisevil.Oh,no!Theworld-wideloveofwhichJesusspeaks—isaloveofkindness,pity,andcompassion.Fallenasmanis,andprovokingasman'swaysare,theheartofGodisfullofkindnesstowardshim.WhileasarighteousJudgeHehatessin,Heisyetableinacertainsense—to lovesinners!The lengthandbreadthofHiscompassion arenot tobemeasuredbyour feeblemeasures.Wearenot to supposethatHe is suchaoneasourselves.Righteousandholy andpure asGod is, it is yetpossibleforGodtoloveallmankind.

Think,reader,foramoment,howwonderfulisthisextentofGod'slove.Lookatthestate of mankind in every part of the earth, and mark the amazing quantity ofwickednessandungodlinessbywhichearthisdefiled.Lookatthemillionsofheathenworshipingstocksandstones,andliving inaspiritualdarkness"whichmaybe felt."Look at the millions of Roman Catholics, burying the truth under man-madetraditions,andgivingthehonorduetoChristtothechurch,thesaints,andthepriest.LookatthemillionsofProtestantswhoarecontentwithamereformalChristianity,andknownothingofChristianbelievingorChristianliving—exceptthename.Lookatthelandinwhichweliveatthisveryday,andmarkthesinswhichaboundeveninaprivilegednation like our own. Think how drunkenness, and immorality, and lying,and swearing, and pride, and covetousness, and infidelity—are crying aloud to GodfromoneendofGreatBritain to theother.And then remember thatGod loves thisworld! No wonder that we find it written that He is "merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth" (Exod. 34. 6).His compassions failnot. He is "not willing that any should perish—but that all should come torepentance."He"wouldhaveallmentobesaved,andtocomeuntotheknowledgeofthetruth."He"hasnopleasureinthedeathofhimwhodies."(2Peter3.9:1Tim.2.4:

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Ezek. 33. 11.) There lives not theman orwoman on earthwhomGod regardswithabsolutehatredorcompleteindifference.HismercyislikeallHisotherattributes.Itpassesknowledge.Godlovestheworld.

Reader,therearediversandstrangedoctrinesabroadinthepresentdayabouttheloveofGod.ItisaprecioustruthwhichSatanlaborshardtoobscurebymisrepresentationandperversion.Graspitfirmly,andstandonyourguard.

BewareofthecommonideathatGodtheFatherisonlyanangryBeing,whomsinfulmancanonlyregardwithfear,andfromwhomhemustfleetoChristforsafety.Castitasideasabaselessandunscripturalnotion.ContendearnestlyforalltheattributesofGod—forHisholinessandHis justice,aswellas forHis love.Butneverallowforone moment that there is any lack of love towards sinners in any Person in theBlessedTrinity.Oh,no!SuchastheFatheris—suchistheSon,andsuchistheHolySpirit. The Father loves, and the Son loves, and theHoly Spirit loves.When Christcameonearth, thekindnessand loveofGodtowardmanappeared. (Titus3:4.)ThecrossistheeffectoftheFather'slove,andnotthecause.RedemptionistheresultofthecompassionofallthreePersonsintheTrinity.ToplacetheFatherandtheSoninoppositiononetoanother, isweakandcrudetheology.Christdied,notbecauseGodtheFatherhated—butbecauseHelovedtheworld.

Beware,again,ofthecommondoctrinethatGod'sloveislimitedandconfinedtoHisownelect,andthatalltherestofmankindarepassedby,neglected,andletalone.ThisalsoisanotionthatwillnotbearexaminationbythelightofScripture.Thefatherofaprodigalsoncansurelyloveandpityhim,evenwhenheiswalkingafterhisownlusts,andrefusingtoreturnhome.TheMakerofallthingsmaysurelylovetheworkofHisownhandswithaloveofcompassion,evenwhenrebelliousagainstHim.Letusresistto the death, the unscriptural doctrine ofuniversalsalvation. It isnot true that allmankindwill be finally saved. But let us not fly into the extreme of denyingGod'suniversalcompassion.ItistruethatGod"lovestheworld."LetusmaintainjealouslytheprivilegesofGod'select.Itistruethattheyarelovedwithaspeciallove,andwillbe loved to all eternity.But let usnot exclude anymanorwoman from thepale ofGod'skindnessandcompassion.Wehavenorighttoparedownthemeaningofwordswhen Jesus says, "God loved theworld." The heart ofGod is farwider than that ofman.ThereisasenseinwhichtheFatherlovesallmankind.

I hold firmly the doctrine of election—as one of the sheet anchors ofmy beliefs. IdelightintheblessedtruththatGodhaslovedHisownelectwithaneverlastinglove,beforethefoundationoftheworld.Butallthisisbesidethequestionbeforeus.Thatquestion is, "How does God regard all mankind?" I reply unhesitatingly, that Godlovesthem.Godlovesalltheworldwithaloveofcompassion.

Reader, ifyounever tookup theserviceofChrist inrealearnest,andhave the least

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desiretobegin,takecomfortinthetruthnowbeforeyou.TakecomfortinthethoughtthatGodtheFather isaGodof infinite loveandcompassion.Donothangbackandhesitate, under the idea that God is an angry Being, who is unwilling to receivesinners, and slow to pardon. Remember this day that love is the Father's darlingattribute. In Him there is perfect justice, perfect purity, perfect wisdom, perfectknowledge,infinitepower.But,aboveall,neverforgetthereisintheFatheraperfectloveandcompassion.DrawneartoHimwithboldness,becauseJesushasmadeawayforyou.ButdrawneartoHimalsowithboldness,becauseitiswrittenthat"Helovedtheworld."

Reader, if you have taken up the service of God already, never be ashamed ofimitatingHimwhomyou serve.Be full of loveandkindness to allmen, and full ofspecial love to thosewho believe. Let there be nothing narrow, limited, contracted,stingy,orsectarianinyourlove.Donotonlyloveyourfamilyandyourfriends—loveallmankind. Love your neighbors and your fellow countrymen. Love strangers andforeigners.LoveheathenandMuhammadans.Love theworstofmenwitha love ofpity.Lovealltheworld.Layasideallenvyandmalice—allselfishnessandunkindness.Tokeepupsuchaspirit,istobenobetterthananinfidel.Leteverythingyoudo—bedonewith charity. Love your enemies, bless thosewho curse you, do good to thosewhohateyou,andbenotwearyofdoingthemgood,toyourlife'send.Theworldmaysneeratsuchconductandcallitbaseandlow-spirited.ButthisisthemindofChrist.ThisisthewaytobelikeGod!GODLOVEDTHEWORLD.

2.Thenext thing Iwant you to consider isGod'sGIFT to theworld. "HegaveHisonlybegottenSon."

ThemannerinwhichthetruthbeforeusisstatedbyourLordJesusChrist,demandsspecial attention. Itwouldbewell formanywho talk big swellingwords about "theloveofGod"inthepresentday,iftheywouldmarkthewayinwhichtheLordJesussetsitbeforeus.

TheloveofGodtowardstheworldisnotavague,abstractideaofmercy,whichweareobligedtotakeontrustwithoutanyproof that it is true.It isa lovewhichhasbeenmanifestedby a mighty gift. It is a love which has been put before us in a plain,unmistakable, tangible form.God the Fatherwas not content to sit in heaven, idlypityingHisfallencreaturesonearth.HehasgiventhemightiestevidenceofHislovetowards us by a gift of unspeakable value. He has "spared not His own Son—butdeliveredHimupforusall"(Romans8:32).Hehassolovedus—thatHehasgivenusChrist!AhigherproofoftheFather'slovecouldnothavebeengiven.

Again, it isnotwritten thatGod so loved theworld thatHeresolved to save it—butthatHesoloveditthatHegaveChrist.HisloveisnotdisplayedattheexpenseofHisholiness and justice. It flows down from heaven to earth through one particular

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channel.Itissetbeforemeninonespecialway.Itisonly—throughChrist,byChrist,onaccountofChrist, and in inseparable connectionwith theworkof Christ. Let usgloryinGod'slovebyallmeans.LetusproclaimtoalltheworldthatGodislove.ButletuscarefullyrememberthatweknowlittleornothingofGod'slovewhichcangiveuscomfort,exceptinginJesusChrist.ItisnotwrittenthatGodsolovedtheworldthatHewill takeall theworld toheaven—but thatHe so loved it, thatHehasgivenHisonly begotten Son. He who ventures on God's love without reference to Christ—isbuildingonafoundationofsand!

WhocanestimatethevalueofGod'sgift,whenHegavetotheworldHisonlybegottenSon? It is something unspeakable and incomprehensible! It passes man'sunderstanding.Therearetwowhichmanhasnoarithmetictocompute,andnolinetomeasure.Oneofthesethingsistheextentofthatman'sloss—wholoseshisownsoul.The other is the extent of God's gift—when He gave Christ to sinners. He gave nocreatedthingforourredemption,thoughallthetreasuresofearth,andallthestarsofheavenwere atHisdisposal.He gavenocreatedbeing tobeourRedeemer, thoughangels,principalitiesandpowersinheavenlyplaces,werereadytodoHiswill.Ohno!HegaveusOnewhowasnothinglessthanHisownfellow,fullyandtrulyGod—HisonlybegottenSon!Hewhothinkslightlyofman'sneedandman'ssin—woulddowelltoconsiderman'sSavior!Sinmustindeedbeexceedingsinful,whentheFathermustneedsgiveHisonlySontobethesinner'sFriendandSavior!

Reader,haveyoueverconsideredtowhattheFathergaveHisonlybegottenSon?Wasittobereceivedwithgratitudeandthankfulnessbyalostandbankruptworld?Wasitto reign in royalmajestyon a restored earth, andputdownevery enemyunderHisfeet?Was it toenter theworldasaking, and togive laws toawillingandobedientpeople?No!TheFathergaveHisSontobedespisedandrejectedbymen,tobebornofa poor woman, and live a life of poverty—to be hated, persecuted, slandered, andblasphemed—tobe countedasa criminal, condemnedas a transgressor, anddie thedeathofa felon!Neverwas theresuch loveas this!Never suchcondescension!Themanamongourselveswhocannotstoopmuchandsuffermuch inorder todogood,knowsnothingofthemindofChrist.

ForwhatendandpurposedidtheFathergiveHisonlybegottenSon?Wasitonlytosupplyanexampleofself-denialandself-sacrifice?No!Itwasforafarhigherendandpurposethanthis.HegaveHimtobeasacrificeforman'ssin,andanatonementforman'stransgression.HegaveHimtobedeliveredforouroffences,andtodiefortheungodly.HegaveHimtobearour iniquities,and to suffer forour sins—the just fortheunjust.HegaveHimtobemadeacurseforus—thatwemightberedeemedfromthecurseofthelaw.HegaveHimwhoknewnosin—tobesinforus,thatwemightbemadetherighteousnessofGodinHim.HegaveHimtobeanatoningsacrificeforoursins,andnotforoursonly—butforthesinsofthewholeworld.HegaveHimtobearansomforus,andtomakesatisfactionforourheavydebttoGodbyHisownprecious

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blood. He gave Him to be the Almighty Friend of sinners—to be their Surety andSubstitute—todoforthemwhattheynevercouldhavedoneforthemselves—tosufferwhattheycouldneverhavesuffered—andtopaywhattheycouldneverhavepaid.Allthat Jesus did and suffered on earthwas according to the determinate counsel andforeknowledge of God. The chief end for which He lived and died—was to provideeternalredemptionforsinners.

Reader,bewareofeverlosingsightofthegreatpurposeforwhichChristwasgivenbyGodtheFather.Letnotthefalseteachingofmoderndivinity,howeverplausibleitmaysound,temptyouto forsaketheoldpaths.Hold fast the faithoncedeliveredtothesaints,thatthespecialobject forwhichChristwasgiven—wastodie forsinners,andtomakeatonementforthembyHissacrificeonthecross.Oncegiveupthisgreatdoctrine,andthereislittleworthcontendingforinChristianity.IfChristdidnotreallybearoursinsonthetreeasourSubstitute,thereisanendofallsolidpeace.

Beware, again, of holding narrow and confined views of the extent of Christ'sredemption.RegardHimasgivenbyGodtheFathertobethecommonSaviorforalltheworld.SeeinHimthefountainforallsinandwickedness,towhicheverysinnermaycomeboldly,drinkandlive.SeeinHimthebrazenserpentsetupinthemidstofthecamp,towhicheverysin-bittensoulmaylookandbehealed.SeeinHimahealingmedicine of matchless value, sufficient for the needs of all the world, and offeredfreelytoallmankind.Thewaytoheavenisnarrowenoughalready,byreasonofman'spride,hardness,sloth,listlessness,andunbelief.Buttakeheedthatyoudonotmakethatwaymorenarrowthanitreallyis.

Iconfess,boldly—thatIholdthedoctrineofparticularredemption,inacertainsense,asstronglyasanyone.Ibelievethatnoneareeffectuallyredeemed,butGod'select.Theyandtheyalone,aresetfreefromtheguilt,andpower,andconsequencesofsin.But I holdno less strongly, thatChrist'sworkof atonement is sufficient forallmankind.ThereisasenseinwhichHehastasteddeathforeveryman,andhastakenuponHimthesinoftheworld.Idarenotparedown,andfileaway,whatappeartometheplainstatementsofScripture.IdarenotshutadoorwhichGodseems,tomyeyes,tohave leftopen. Idarenot tell anymanonearth thatChristhasdonenothing forhim,andthathehasnowarranttoapplyboldlytoChristforsalvation.ImustabidebythestatementsoftheBible.ChristisGod'sgifttothewholeworld.

Reader,Iaskyoutoobservewhatagivingreligion,trueChristianityis.Gift,love,andfree-gracearethegrandcharacteristicsofthepuregospel.TheFatherlovestheworld—andgivesHisonlybegottenSon.TheSon lovesus—andgivesHimself forus.TheFatherandtheSontogether—givetheHolySpirittoallwhoask.AllThreePersonsintheBlessedTrinitygivegraceupongracetothosewhobelieve.Neverbeashamedofbeing a giving Christian, if you profess to have any hope in Christ. Give freely,liberally, and self-denyingly, according as you have power and opportunity. Let not

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your love consist in nothing more than vague expressions of kindness andcompassion.Makeproofofitbyactions.HelpforwardthecauseofChristonearth—bymoney,influence,pains,andprayer.IfGodsolovedyouastogiveHisSonforyoursoul—you should count it a privilege, andnot a burden, to givewhat you can to dogoodtomen.

Reader,ifGodhasgivenyouHisonlybegottenSon,bewareofdoubtingHiskindnessand love in anypainfulprovidenceof your daily life!Never allow yourself to thinkhardthoughtsofGod.NeversupposethatHecangiveyouanythingwhichisnotreallyforyourgood.Remember thewordsofPaul: "HewhosparednotHisownSon—butdeliveredHimupforusall,howshallHenotwithHimalsofreelygiveusallthings"(Romans8:32.)Seeineverysorrowandtroubleofyourearthlypilgrimage—thehandofHimwhogaveChristtodieforyoursins.Thathandcanneversmiteyou—exceptinlove.HewhogaveyouHisonlybegottenSon,willneverwithholdanythingfromyouthatisreallyforyourgood.Leanbackonthisthoughtandbecontent.Saytoyourselfinthedarkesthouroftrial,"ThisalsoisorderedbyHimwhogaveChristtodieformysins.Itcannotbewrong.Itisdoneinlove.Itmustbewell."

3.ThethirdthingIproposetoconsider,istheWAYinwhichmanobtainsthe benefit of God's love and Christ's salvation. It is written that "whoeverbelievesshallnotperish."

Reader, the point before you is of the deepest importance. To bring it out clearlybeforeyoureyes isonegreatobjectof the tractyouarenowreading.Godhas lovedtheworld.GodhasgivenHisSon"tobetheSavioroftheworld"(1John4:14).Andyetwe learn fromScripture thatmanypeople in theworldnever reachheaven!Hereatanyrateislimitation.Herethegateisstraitandthewaynarrow.Someandsomeonlyoutofmankind,obtaineternalbenefitfromChrist.Whothen,andwhat,arethey?

Christ and His benefits are only available to those who believe. This is a doctrinerepeatedlylaiddowninScripture,inplainandunmistakablelanguage.ThosewhowillnotbelieveinHimhavenopartinHim.Withoutbelievingthereisnosalvation.Itisvain to suppose that any will be saved—merely because Christ was incarnate—orbecause Christ is in heaven—or because they belong to Christ's church—or becausetheyarebaptized—orbecausetheyhavereceivedtheLord'ssupper.Allthisisentirelyuseless to anyman—except he believes.Without faith on his part, all these thingstogether, will not save his soul. We must have personal faith in Christ, personaldealingswithChrist,personaltransactionswithChrist—orweare lost forevermore.ItisutterlyfalseandunscripturaltosaythatChristisineveryman.Christnodoubtisforeveryone—butChristisnotineveryone.Hedwellsonlyinthoseheartswhichhavefaith—andall,unhappily,havenotfaith.HewhobelievesnotintheSonofGodisyetinhissins—andthewrathofGodabidesonhim!"Hewhobelievesnot,"saysourLordJesus Christ in words of fearful distinctness—"He who believes not—shall be

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damned!"(Mark6:16;John3:36).

ButChristandallHisbenefitsarethepropertyofanypersonwhobelieves.Everyonewho believes on the Son of God—is at once pardoned, forgiven, justified, countedrighteous, reckoned innocent,and freed fromall liability tocondemnation!Hissins,however many—are at once cleansed away by Christ's precious blood. His soul,howeverguilty—isatonceclothedwithChrist'sperfectrighteousness.Itmattersnotwhathemayhavebeen in timepast.Hissinsmayhavebeenof theworstkind.Hisformercharactermaybeoftheblackestdescription.ButdoeshebelieveontheSonofGod?Thisistheonequestion.Ifhedoesbelieve,heisjustifiedfromallthingsinthesight ofGod. Itmatters nothing that he can bring to Christ nothing to recommendhim—nogoodworks,no long-provedamendments,nounmistakable repentance andchange of life. But does he this day, believe in Jesus Christ? This is the grandquestion! If he does—he is at once accepted.He is accounted righteous for Christ'ssake.

Butwhat is this believing, which is of such matchless importance?What is thenatureofthisfaith,whichgivesamansuchamazingprivileges?Thisisanimportantquestion. I ask your attention to the answer. Here is a rock on whichmanymakeshipwreck.Andyet there isnothing reallymysteriousandhard tounderstandaboutsavingbelief.Thewholedifficultyarisesfromman'sprideandself-righteousness.Itisthe very simplicity of justifying faith, at which thousands stumble. They cannotunderstandit—becausetheywillnotstoop.

Believing onChrist is nomere intellectual assent—or belief of themind. This is nomore than the faithofdevils!Wemaybelieve that therewasadivinePersoncalledJesusChrist,wholivedanddiedandroseagain,eighteenhundredyearsago—andyetnever believe so as to be saved. Doubtless there must be some knowledge of thegospel,beforewecanbelieve.There isno true religion in ignorance.Butknowledgealoneisnotsavingfaith.

BelievingonChristagainisnotmerefeelingsomethingaboutChrist.Thisisoftennomore than temporary excitement, which, like the early dew, soon passes away.Wemay be pricked in conscience, and feel drawings toward the Gospel likeHerod andFelix.Wemay even tremble and weep, and showmuch affection for the truth andthose thatprofess it. And yet all this time ourhearts andwillsmay remain utterlyunchangedandsecretlychaineddowntotheworld.Doubtlessthereisnosavingfaithwherethereisnofeeling.Butfeelingalone—isnottruefaith.

TruebeliefinChrististheunreservedtrustofaheartconvincedofsin—inChrist,asanall-sufficientSavior. It is the combinedactof thewholeman'smind, conscience,heart,andwill. It isoften soweakand feebleat first, thathewhohas it, cannot bepersuaded that hehas it.And yet, like life in thenewborn infant, his beliefmay be

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real,genuine, saving,and true.Themoment that theconscience is convinced of sin,andtheheadseesChristtobetheonlyOnewhocansave,andtheheartandwill layhold on the hand that Christ holds out—thatmoment there is saving faith. In thatmomentamantrulybelieves.

True belief inChrist is so immensely important, that theHoly Spirit has graciouslyusedmanyfiguresintheBibleindescribingit.TheLordGodknowstheslownessofmantocomprehendspiritualthings.Hehasthereforemultipliedformsofexpression,inordertosettruefaithfullybeforeus.Themanwhocannotunderstand"believing"inoneformofwords,willperhapsunderstanditinanother.

1.Believingisthesoul'sCOMINGtoChrist.TheLordJesussays,"HewhocomestoMeshallneverhunger.""ComeuntoMe,allwholaborandareheavyladen,andIwillgiveyourest"(John6:35;Matt.11:28).ChrististhatAlmightyFriend,Advocate,and Physician, to whom all sinners, needing help, are commanded to apply. ThebelievercomestoHimbyfaith—andisrelieved.

2. Believing is the soul's RECEIVING Christ. Paul says, "You have receivedChristJesustheLord"(Col.2:6).Christofferstocomeintoman'sheartwithpardon,mercy,andgrace,andtodwellthereasitsPeacemakerandKing.Hesays,"Istandatthedoorandknock" (Rev. 3. 20).ThebelieverhearsHis voice, opens thedoor, andadmitsChristashisTeacher,Priest,andKing.

3.Believingisthesoul'sBUILDINGonChrist.Paul says, you are "built up inHim." "You are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets" (Col. 2:7;Ephes.2:20).Christisthatsurecornerstone,thatstrongfoundation,whichalonecanbear theweightofasinfulsoul.Thebelieverplaceshishopes foreternityonHim—andissafe.Theearthmaybeshakenanddissolved—butheisbuiltuponarock,andwillneverbeconfounded.

4.Believing is the soul'sPUTTINGONChrist. Paul says, "Asmany of you ashave been baptized into Christ, haveput onChrist" (Gal. 3:27). Christ is that purewhite robe, which God has provided for all sinners who would enter heaven. Thebelieverputsonthisrobeby faith—and isatonceperfect,and free fromanyspot inGod'ssight.

5.Believingisthesoul'sLAYINGHOLDonChrist.Paulsays,"Wehavefledforrefuge to layholdon thehope setbeforeus" (Heb.6:18).Christ is that truecity ofrefuge, towhichthemanfleeingfromtheavengerofbloodruns,andinwhichhe issafe.Christisthataltarwhichprovidedasanctuarytohimwholaidholdonitshorns.Christisthatalmightyhandofmercy,whichGodholdsoutfromheaventolostanddrowningsinners.Thebelieverlaysholdonthishandbyfaith,andisdeliveredfromthepitofhell.

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6.Believingisthesoul'sEATINGChrist.TheLordJesussays,"Myfleshisfoodindeed.Hewho eats of thisbreadshall live forever" (John 6:55, 58). Christ is thatdivine foodwhich God has provided for starving sinners. He is that divine breadwhichisatthesametime—life,nourishmentandmedicine!Thebelieverfeedsonthisbreadoflifebyfaith.Hishungerisrelieved.Hissoulisdeliveredfromdamnation!

7.Believingisthesoul'sDRINKINGChrist.TheLordJesussays, "Myblood isdrink indeed" (John 6:55). Christ is that fountain of living water which God hasopened for theuseofall thirstyandsin-defiledsinners,proclaiming, "Whoeverwill,lethim take thewater of life freely!" (Rev. 22:17).Thebelieverdrinks of this livingwater—andhisthirstisquenched.

8.Believingisthesoul'sCOMMITTALofitselftoChrist.Paulsays,"HeisabletokeepthatwhichIhavecommittedtoHimagainstthatday"(2Tim.1:12).ChrististheappointedkeeperandguardianofHispeople.ItisHisofficetopreservefromsin,death,hell,andthedevil--anywhoarecommitted toHischarge.ThebelieverplaceshissoulinthehandsofthisAlmightytreasure-keeper,andis insuredagainst losstoalleternity.HetrustshimselftoChrist—andissafe.

9.Last—butnotleast,believingisthesoul'sLOOKtoChrist.Paul describesthesaintsas"lookinguntoJesus" (Heb.12:2).The invitationof theGospel is, "lookuntoMe—andbesaved"(Isaiah45:22).Christ is thatbrazenserpentwhichGodhassetupintheworld,forthehealingofallsin-bittensoulswhodesiretobecured.ThebelieverlookstoHimbyfaith--andreceiveslife,health,andspiritualstrength!

One common remark applies to all the nine expressions which I have just gonethrough.Theyallgiveusthesimplestideaoffaithorbelieving—thatmancandesire.Nooneof them implies thenotionof anythingmysterious,great, ormeritorious intheactofbelief.Allrepresentitassomethingwithinreachoftheweakestandfeeblestsinner,andwithinthecomprehensionofthemostignorantandunlearned.Grantforamomentthatamansays,thathecannotunderstandwhatfaithinChrist is.LethimlookatthenineexpressionsunderwhichfaithisdescribedinScripture,andtellme,ifhecan,thathecannotunderstandthem.SurelyhemustallowthatcomingtoChrist,looking toChrist,committingour souls toChrist, layingholdon Christ, are simpleideas. Then let him remember that coming, looking, and committing our souls toChrist,are,inotherwords,believing.

And now, reader, if you love peace of conscience in your religion, I entreat you tograsp firmly thegreatdoctrinewhichIhave tried tosetbeforeyou—andnever let itgo.Hold fast thegrandtruth, thatsaving faith isnothingbut simple trust inChrist,thatfaithalonejustifies,andthattheonethingneedfulinordertoobtainaninterestinChrist—istobelieve.Nodoubtrepentance,holiness,andloveareexcellentthings.Theywill always accompany true faith.But in thematter of justification, they have

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nothing todo. In thatmatter, theone thingneedful is tobelieve.Nodoubt,belief isnot theonlygrace tobe found in theheartofa trueChristian.Butonlybeliefgiveshim a saving interest in Christ. Prize that doctrine as the peculiar treasure ofChristianity.Onceletitgo,oraddanythingtoit,andthereisanendofinwardpeace.

Prizethedoctrineforitssuitablenesstotheneedsoffallenman.Itplacessalvationwithinreachofthelowestandvilestsinner—ifhehasbutheartandwilltoreceiveit.It askshimnot forworks, righteousness,merit, goodnessorworthiness. Itrequiresnothingofhim.Itstripshimofallexcuses.Itdepriveshimofallpretextfordespair.Hissinsmayhavebeenasscarlet.Butwillhebelieve?Thenthereishope!

Prize thedoctrine for itsglorioussimplicity. Itbrings eternal lifenear to thepoor,andignorant,andunlearned.Itdoesnotaskamanforalongconfessionofdoctrinalorthodoxy. Itdoesnot requirea storeofheadknowledge, andanacquaintancewitharticlesandcreeds.Doestheman,withallhisignorance,cometoChristasasinner,andcommithimselfentirelytoHimforsalvation?Willhebelieve?Ifhewill—thereishope.

Aboveall,prizethedoctrineforthegloriousbreadthandfullnessofitsterms.Itdoesnotsay"theelect"whobelieve,or"therich"whobelieve,or"themoral"peoplewhobelieve,or"theChurchman"whobelieves,or"theDissenter"whobelieves—these,andthese only shall be saved.Oh! no, it uses aword of far wider signification: It says,"Whoeverbelieves, shall not perish."Whoever—whatever his past life, conduct, orcharacter;whateverhisname,rank,job,orcountry;whateverhisdenomination,andwhateverplaceofworshiphemayhaveattended;whoeverbelievesinChristshallnotperish!

Reader,thisistheGospel.IdonotmarvelthatPaulwrotethosewords,"ifwe,oranangel from heaven, preach any other Gospel unto you than that which we havepreacheduntoyou—lethimbeaccursed!"(Gal.1:8).

4.ThefourthandlastthingwhichIproposetoconsider,isapointofgreatpracticalimportance.IwishtoshowyoutheMARKSbywhichtruebeliefinChristmaybediscernedandknown.

ThefaithorbelievingofwhichIhavespoken,isagraceofsuchimportance,thatwemaynaturallyexpecttohearofmanycounterfeitsofit.Thereisadeadfaithaswellasalivingone.ThereisafaithofdevilsaswellasafaithofGod'select.Thereisafaithwhichisvainanduseless,aswellasafaithwhichjustifiesandsaves.Howshallamanknowwhether he has true faith?How shall he find outwhether he believes to thesavingofhissoul?Thethingmaybefoundout!TheEthiopianmaybeknownbythecolorofhisskin;andtheleopardmaybeknownbyhisspots.Truefaithmayalwaysbeknown by certain marks. These marks are laid down unmistakably in Scripture.

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Reader,letmeendeavortosetthesemarksplainlybeforeyou.Lookatthemcarefully—andtestyourownsoulbywhatIamgoingtosay.

1. He who truly believes in Christ—has inward PEACE and HOPE. It iswritten, "Being justified by faith, we have peacewith God through our Lord JesusChrist." "We which have believed do enter into rest" (Romans 5:1; Heb. 4:3). Thebeliever'ssinsarepardoned,andhisiniquitiestakenaway.Hisconscienceisnolongerburdenedwiththeloadofunpardonedtransgressions.HeisreconciledtoGod,andisone of His friends. He can look forward to death, judgment, and eternity—withoutfear.Thestingofdeathistakenaway.Whenthegreatjudgmentofthelastdayisheld,and the books are opened—there will be nothing laid to his charge.When eternitybegins—heisprovidedfor.Hehasahopelaidupinheaven,andacitywhichcannotbemoved. Hemay not be fully sensible of all these privileges. His sense and view ofthemmayvarygreatlyatdifferenttimes—andbeoftenobscuredbydoubtsandfears.Likeachildwhoisyetunderage,thoughheirtoagreatfortune—hemaynotbefullyawareofthevalueofhispossessions.Butwithallhisdoubtsandfears—hehasareal,solid,truehopewhichwillbearexamination,andathisbestmoments,hewillbeabletosay,"Ifeelahopewhichmakesmenotashamed."(Romans5:5.)

2.Hewhotrulybelieves inChrist—hasaNEWHEART.It iswritten, "If anymanisinChrist,heisanewcreature—oldthingsarepassedaway;behold,allthingshavebecomenew.""ToasmanyasreceivedChrist,HegavepowertobecomesonsofGod,whowerebornnotofblood,norofthewilloftheflesh,norofthewillofman—butofGod.""WhoeverbelievesthatJesusistheChrist—isbornofGod"(2Cor.5:17;John1:12,18;1John5:1.)Abelieverhasnolongerthesamenaturewithwhichhewasborn.Heischanged,renewed,andtransformedaftertheimageofhisLordandSavior.He who minds first the things of the flesh—has no saving faith. True faith, andspiritual regeneration, are inseparable companions. An unconverted person is not agenuinebeliever!

3.HewhotrulybelievesinChrist—isaHOLYpersoninheartandlife.It iswritten thatGod "purifies theheart by faith," and that Christians are "sanctified byfaith." "Whoever has this hope in him, purifies himself." (Acts 15:9; 26:18; 1 John3:3.).AbelieverloveswhatGodloves,andhateswhatGodhates.Hisheart'sdesireistowalk in thewayofGod'scommandments,andtoabstain fromallmannerofevil.Hiswishistofollowafterthethingswhicharejust,andpure,andhonest,andlovely,andof good report, and to cleansehimself fromall filthinessof fleshand spirit.Hefallsfarshortofhisaim,inmanythings.Hefindshisdailylifeaconstantfightwithindwelling corruption. But he fights on, and resolutely refuses to serve sin. Wherethereisnoholiness,wemaybesurethereisnosavingfaith!Anunholymanisnotagenuinebeliever!

4.Hewho truly believes inChrist—works godlyWORKS. It is written, that

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"faithworksbylove"(Gal.5:6).Truebeliefwillnevermakeamanidle,orallowhimtositstill,contentedwithhisownreligion.Itwillstirhimtodoactsoflove,kindness,andcharity,accordingasheseesopportunity.ItwillconstrainhimtowalkinthestepsofhisMaster,who"wentaboutdoinggood."Inonewayoranother,itwillmakehimwork.Theworksthathedoesmayattractnonotice fromtheworld.Theymayseemtrifling and insignificant to many people. But they are not forgotten by Him whonoticesacupofcoldwatergivenforHissake.Wherethereisnoworkinglove—thereis no faith. A lazy, selfish professing Christian, has no right to regard himself as agenuinebeliever!

5.HewhotrulybelievesinChrist—overcomestheWORLD.Itiswritten,that"whoever is born of God overcomes the world—and this is the victory whichovercomestheworld—evenourfaith"(1John5:4).Atruebelieverisnotruledbytheworld'sstandardofrightorwrong,oftruthorerror.Heisindependentoftheworld'sopinion.Hecareslittlefortheworld'spraise.Heisnotmovedbytheworld'scensure.He does not seek for the world's pleasures. He is not ambitious of the world'srewards.Helooksatthingsunseen.HeseesaninvisibleSavior,acomingjudgment,acrownofglorywhichnever fadesaway.Thesightof theseobjects,makeshim thinkcomparativelylittleofthispresentworld.Wheretheworldreignsintheheart,thereisnogenuinefaith.Amanwhoishabituallyconformedtotheworld,hasnotitletothenameofatruebeliever!

6.HewhotrulybelievesinChrist—hasaninwardTESTIMONYofhisbelief.Itiswritten,that"hewhobelievesontheSonofGod,hasthewitnessinhimself"(1John 5:10). Themark before us requires very delicate handling. Thewitness of theSpiritisunquestionablyaverydifficultsubject.ButIcannotshrinkfromdeclaringmyown firm persuasion, that a true believer always has inward feelings peculiar tohimself—feelingswhichare inseparably connectedwithhis faith, and flow from it—feelings ofwhichunbelievers knownothing at all.Hehas the spirit of adoption, bywhichhe regardsGodasa reconciledFather, and looksup toHimwithout fear.Hehasthetestimonyofhisconscience,sprinkledwithChrist'sblood,that,weakasheis,he rests onChrist.Hehashopes, joys, fears, sorrows, consolations, expectations, ofwhichheknewnothingbeforehebelieved.Hehasinternalevidenceswhichtheworldcannot understand—but which are better to him than all the books of evidence inexistence.Feelingsare,nodoubt,verydeceitful.Butwheretherearenoinwardpiousfeelings—there is no faith. A man who knows nothing of an inward, spiritual,experimentalreligion,isnotyetagenuinebeliever!

7.Last—butnotleast,HewhotrulybelievesinChrist—hasaspecialregardinallhisreligion—tothepersonofCHRISTHimself. It iswritten, "UntoyouthatbelieveChristisprecious"(1Peter2:7).Thattextdeservesespecialnotice.Itdoesnotsay"Christianity"isprecious,orthe"Gospel"isprecious,or"salvation"isprecious—butChristHimself.A truebeliever's religion,doesnotconsist inmere intellectual

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assenttoacertainsetofpropositionsanddoctrines.It isnotamerecoldbeliefofacertainsetoftruthsandfactsconcerningChrist.Itconsistsinunion,communion,andfellowshipwithanactuallivingPerson,evenJesustheSonofGod.ItisalifeoffaithinJesus,confidenceinJesus, leaningonJesus,drawingoutofthefullnessofJesus,speaking to Jesus, working for Jesus, loving Jesus, and looking for Jesus to comeagain. Such lifemay sound like enthusiasm tomany. Butwhere there is true faith,Christwillalwaysbeknownandrealized,asanactuallivingpersonalFriend.HewhoknowsnothingofChristashisownPriest,Physician,andRedeemer,knowsnothingyetofgenuinebelieving!

Reader,Iplacethesesevenmarksofbelievingbeforeyou,andIaskyou toconsiderthemwell.Idonotsay,thatallbelievershavethemequally.Idonotsay,thatnoonewillbesaved,whocannotdiscoverall thesemarks inhimself. Iconcede, freely, thatmanybelievers are soweak in faith, that they go doubting all their days, andmakeothersdoubtabout themtoo.Isimplysay, that theseare themarks towhichamanshould first direct his attention, if he would answer the mighty question,Do youbelieve?

Wherethesevenmarks,ofwhichIhavejustbeenspeaking,areutterlylacking,Idarenot tell aman thathe is a truebeliever.Hemaybe calledaChristian, andattendaChristian church. He may have been baptized with Christian baptism, and be amemberofaChristianchurch.ButifheknowsnothingofpeacewithGod,conversionofheart,newnessoflife,victoryovertheworld,Idarenotpronouncehimabeliever.He is yet dead in trespasses and sins. Except he awakes to newness of life, he willperisheverlastingly.

ShowmeamanwhohasabouthimthesevenmarkswhichIhavedescribed,andIfeela strong confidence about the state of his soul. Hemay be poor and needy in thisworld—butheisrichinthesightofGod.Hemaybedespisedandsneeredatbyman—butheishonorableinthesightoftheKingofkings.Heistravelingtowardsheaven!HehasamansionreadyforhimintheFather'shouse.HeiscaredforbyChrist,whileonearth.HewillbeownedbyChristbeforeassembledworlds,inthelifewhichistocome.

1.Andnow,reader, indrawing this tract toa conclusion, I return to theQUESTIONwithwhichIbegan. Ipress that questionon your conscience. I askyou,inmyMaster'sname,whetheryouyetknowanythingofthesubjectofit?Iaskyou,whilethesepagesareyetbeforeyoureyes, to lookmyinquiry intheface.Iaskyou,Doyoubelieve?

DOYOUBELIEVE?Ithinkit impossibletooverratetheimmenseimportanceofthequestionbeforeyou.Lifeordeath,heavenorhell,blessingorcursing—allhingeandturn upon it.Hewho believes onChrist—is not condemned.Hewho believes not—

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shallbedamned.Ifyoubelieve—youarepardoned, justified,acceptedinGod'ssight,andhaveatitletoeverlastinglife.Ifyoudonotbelieve—youareperishingdaily.Yoursins are all upon your head, sinking you down to perdition. Every hour you are somuchnearertohell.

DOYOUBELIEVE?Itmattersnothingwhatothersaredoing.Thequestionconcernsyourself.Thefollyofothermenisnoexcuseforyours.Thelossofheavenwillnotbelessbitter,becauseyouloseitincompany.Lookathome.Thinkofyourownsoul.

DOYOUBELIEVE?Itisnoanswertosay,that"yousometimeshopeChristdiedforyou."TheScripturesnevertellustospendourtimeindoubtsandhesitationonthatpoint.Weneverreadofasinglecaseofonewhostoodstillonthatground.Salvationis nevermade to turn on the question, whether Christ died for a man or not. Theturning-pointisalwayssetbeforeusasbelieving.

DOYOUBELIEVE?Thisisthepointtowhichallmustcomeatlast,iftheywouldbesaved. It will signify little, when we hang on the brink of the grave, what we haveprofessed,andtowhatdenominationwehavebelonged.Allthiswillsinkintonothing,in comparison with the question of this tract. All will be useless, if we have notbelieved.

DO YOU BELIEVE? This is the commonmark of all saved souls. Episcopalians orPresbyterians, Baptists or Independents, Methodists or Plymouth Brethren,ChurchmenorDissenters,allmeetonthiscommonground,iftheyaretruemen.Onother matters they are often hopelessly disagreed. But in living by faith on JesusChrist,theyareallone.

DO YOU BELIEVE? What reason can you give for unbelief, that will bearexamination?Lifeisshortanduncertain.Deathissure.Judgmentisinevitable.Sinisexceedingsinful.Hellisadreadfulreality.Christalonecansaveyou.Thereisnoothernamegivenunderheaven,wherebyyoucanbesaved.Ifnotsaved,theblamewillbeonyourownhead.Youwillnotbelieve!YouwillnotcometoChrist,thatHemaygiveyoulife!

Reader, take warning this day. You must either believe on Christ, or perisheverlastingly.Restnotuntilyoucangiveasatisfactoryanswertothequestionbeforeyou.Neverbesatisfied,untilyoucansay,BythegraceofGodIdobelieve!

2.Ipassonfromquestions—toCOUNSEL.Iofferittoallwhoareconvincedofsin,anddissatisfiedwiththeirownspiritualcondition.IentreatyoutocometoChristbyfaithwithoutdelay.IinviteyouthisdaytobelieveonChristtothesavingofyoursoul.

Iwillnotletyouputmeoffbythecommonobjection,"Wecannotbelieve—wemust

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waituntilGodgivesusfaith."Igrantmostfullythatsavingfaith,liketruerepentance,is the gift of God. I grant that we have no natural power of our own to believe onChrist, receive Christ, come to Christ, lay hold on Christ, and commit our soul toChrist.But I see faithandrepentance laiddownclearly inScriptureasdutieswhichGod requires at anyman's hands.He "commanded allmen to repent." "This isHiscommandment, Thatwe should believe" (Acts 17:30: 1 John 3:23).And I see it laiddownwithno less clearness, that unbelief and impenitence are sins forwhichmanwill beheld accountable, and thathewhodoesnot repent and believe, destroys hisownsoul.(Mark16:16;Luke13:3).

Willanyonetellmethatitisrightforamantositstillinsin?Willanyonesaythatasinnerontheroadtohelloughttowait idly forsomepowerto takehimupandputhim in the way of heaven?Will any one say that it is right for aman to continuequietly serving the devil, in open rebellion against God—and that he is tomake noeffort,nostruggle,noattempttoturntowardsChrist?

Letotherssaythesethings, iftheywill.Icannotsaythem.Icanfindnowarrant fortheminScripture.Iwillnotwastetimeintryingtoexplainwhatcannotbeexplained,andunravelwhatcannotbeunraveled.Iwillnotattempttoshowphilosophically inwhat way an unconvertedman can look to Christ, or repent, or believe. But this Iknow,thatitismyplaindutytobideveryunbelievertorepentandbelieve.AndthisIknow,thatthemanwhowillnottaketheinvitation,willfindatlastthathehasruinedhisownsoul!

Reader, trust Christ, look to Christ, cry to the Lord Jesus Christ—if you never yetbelieved—aboutyoursoul.Ifyouhavenottherightfeelingsyet,askHimtogiveyourightfeelings.Ifyoudarenotthinkthatyouhavetruefaithyet,askHimtogiveyoufaith.Butinanycasedonotsitstill.Donotidleawayyoursoulintohell—inignorant,unscriptural sloth.Do not live on in senseless inactivity—waiting for you know notwhat—expectingwhatyoucannotexplain—increasingyourguilteveryday—offendingGodbycontinuing in lazyunbelief—andhourlydiggingagrave inhell foryourownsoul.AriseandcalluponChrist!Awakeandcry toJesusaboutyour soul!Whateverdifficulties theremay be about believing, one thing at least is abundantly clear—nomaneverperishedandwenttohell—fromthefootofthecross.Ifyoucandonothingelse,liedownatthefootofthecross!

3.IfinishallbyawordofEXHORTATIONtoallbelieversintowhosehandsthistractmayfall.Iaddressthemasfellow-pilgrimsandcompanionsintribulation.Iexhortthem,iftheylovelife,andhavefoundanypeaceinbelieving,topraydailyforanincreaseoffaith.Letyourprayerbecontinually,"Lord,increasemyfaith."

True faith admits ofmany degrees. Theweakest faith is enough to join the soul toChrist,andtosecuresalvation.Atremblinghandmayreceiveahealingmedicine.The

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feeblest infantmay be heir to the richest possessions. The least true faith gives asinnera title toheaven, as surely as the strongest.But little faithcannever give somuchsensiblecomfortasstrongfaith.Accordingtothedegreeofourfaithwillbethedegreeofourpeace,ourhope,ourstrengthforduty,andourpatienceintrial.Surelyweshouldpraycontinually,"Increaseourfaith."

Believingreader,wouldyouhavemorefaith?Doyoufindbelievingsopleasant,thatyouwould like to believemore? Then take heed that you are diligent in the use ofeverymeansofgrace—diligentinyourprivatecommunionwithGod—diligentinyourdaily watchfulness over time, temper, and tongue—diligent in your private Biblereading—diligentinyourownprivateprayers.Itisvaintoexpectspiritualprosperity,whenwearecarelessabout these things.Let thosewhowill, call itover-precise andlegaltobeparticularaboutthesethings.Ionlyreply,thatthereneverwasaneminentsaintwhoneglectedthem.

Reader,wouldyouhavemorefaith?ThenseektobecomemoreacquaintedwithJesusChrist. Study your blessed Savior more andmore, and strive to know more of thelengthandbreadthandheightofHislove.StudyHiminallHisoffices,asthePriest,thePhysician,theRedeemer,theAdvocate, theFriend, theTeacher, theShepherdofHisbelievingpeople.StudyHimasonewhonotonlydiedforyou—but isalso livingfor you at the righthandofGod; as onewhonot only shedHisblood for you—butdailyintercedesforyouattherighthandofGod;asonewhoissooncomingagainforyou,andwillstandoncemoreonthisearth.Theminerwhoisfullypersuadedthattheropewhichdrawshimupfromthepitwillnotbreak,isdrawnupwithoutanxietyandalarm.ThebelieverwhoisthoroughlyacquaintedwiththefullnessofJesusChrist,isthebelieverwhotravelsfromgracetoglorywiththegreatestcomfortandpeace.

Reader,Icommendthesethingstoyourcarefulattention.

Repentance

"Exceptyourepent,youshallalllikewiseperish."Luke13:3

The text which heads this page, at first sight, looks stern and severe, "Except yourepent, you shall all perish." I can fancy someone saying, "Is this theGospel?" "Arethesethegladtidings?Arethesethegoodnewsofwhichministersspeak?""Thisisahardsaying,whocanhearit?"(John6:60.)

Butfromwhoselipsdidthesewordscome?TheycamefromthelipsofOnewholovesuswitha love thatpassesknowledge,evenJesusChrist, theSonofGod.TheywerespokenbyOnewhosolovedusthatHeleftheavenforoursakes—camedowntoearth

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for our sakes—lived a poor, humble life, for three and thirty years on earth for oursakes—went to thecross forus,went to thegrave forus, anddied forour sins.Thewordsthatcomefromlipslikethese,mustsurelybewordsoflove.

And,afterall,whatgreaterproofoflovecanbegiventhantowarnafriendofcomingdanger?Thefatherwhoseeshissontotteringtowardthebrinkofaprecipice,andashe seeshim cries out sharply, "Stop, stop!"—does not that father love his son? Thetendermotherwhoseesherinfantonthepointofeatingsomepoisonousberry,andcriesoutsharply,"Stop,stop!putitdown!"—doesnotthatmotherlovethatchild?Itisindifferencewhichletspeoplealone,andallowsthemtogooneachinhisownway.Itislove,tenderlove,whichwarns,andraisesthecryofalarm.Thecryof"Fire—fire!"atmidnight,maysometimesstartleamanoutofhissleep,rudely,harshly,unpleasantly.But who would complain, if that cry was the means of saving his life? The words,"Exceptyourepent,youshallallperish,"mayseematfirstsightsternandsevere.Buttheyarewordsoflove,andmaybethemeansofdeliveringprecioussoulsfromhell.

TherearethreethingstowhichIaskattentioninconsideringthistextofScripture.

Firstofall,Iwillspeakofthenatureofrepentance—Whatisit?

Secondly,Iwillspeakofthenecessityofrepentance—Whyisrepentanceneedful?

Thirdly, Iwill speak of theencouragementstorepentance—What is there to leadpeopletorepent?

I.Firstofall,theNATUREofrepentance—Whatisit?

Let us see that we set down our feet firmly on this point. The importance of theinquiry cannot be overrated. Repentance is one of the foundation-stones ofChristianity.Sixtytimes,atleast,wefindrepentancespokenofintheNewTestament.WhatwasthefirstdoctrineourLordJesusChristpreached?WearetoldthatHesaid,"Repent,andbelievetheGospel."(Mark1:15.)WhatdidtheApostlesproclaimwhentheLordsent them forth the first time?They "preached thatpeople should repent."(Mark6:12.)Whatwas the chargewhich Jesus gaveHis discipleswhenHe left theworld? That "repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His nameamongallnations."(Luke24:47.)Whatwastheconcludingappealofthefirstsermonswhich Peter preached? "Repent, and be baptized." "Repent you, and be converted."(Acts2:38;3:19.)WhatwasthesummaryofdoctrinewhichPaulgavetotheEphesianelders,whenheparted from them?He told them that hehad taught thempublicly,and from house to house, "testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks,repentance towardGod,and faith towardourLordJesusChrist." (Acts20:21.)WhatwasthedescriptionwhichPaulgaveofhisownministry,whenhemadehisdefensebefore Festus and Agrippa? He told them that he had taught all people that they

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should"repent,anddoworksfitforrepentance."(Acts26:20.)Whatwastheaccountgiven by the believers at Jerusalem of the conversion of the Gentiles? When theyheardofittheysaid,"ThenhasGodalsototheGentilesgrantedrepentanceuntolife."(Acts 11:18.) What is one of the first qualifications which the Church of Englandrequires of all people that would come to the Lord's table? They are to "examinethemselves whether they repent them truly of their former sins." No impenitentperson, according to theChurchofEngland,ought ever to come to theLord's table.Surelywemustallagreethattheseareseriousconsiderations.Theyoughttoshowtheimportance of the inquiry I amnowmaking.Amistake about repentance is amostdangerousmistake.Anerroraboutrepentanceisanerrorthatliesattheveryrootsofour religion. What, then, is repentance? When can it be said of any man, that herepents?

Repentanceisathoroughchangeofman'snaturalheart,uponthesubjectofsin.Weareallborn insin.Wenaturally lovesin.We take to sin,as soonaswecanactandthink—just as thebird takes to flying, and the fish takes to swimming. There neverwas a child that required schooling or education in order to learn deceitfulness,selfishness, passion, self-will, gluttony, pride, and foolishness. These things are notpicked up from bad companions, or gradually learned by a long course of tediousinstruction.They springupof themselves, evenwhenboysandgirls arebroughtupalone.Theseedsofthemareevidentlythenaturalproductoftheheart.Theaptitudeofallchildrentotheseevilthingsisanunanswerableproofofthecorruptionandfallofman.NowwhenthisheartofoursischangedbytheHolySpirit,whenthisnaturallove of sin is cast out, then takes place that change which the Word of God calls"repentance."Themaninwhomthechangeiswroughtissaidto"repent."Hemaybecalled,inoneword,a"penitent"man.

But I dare not leave the subject here. It deserves a closer and more searchinginvestigation.Itisnotsafetodealingeneralstatements,whendoctrinesofthiskindarehandled.Iwill try totakerepentance topieces,anddissectandanalyze itbeforeyoureyes. Iwill showyou thepartsandportionsofwhichrepentance ismadeup. Iwillendeavor to set before you something of the experience of every truly penitentman.

(a)TruerepentancebeginswithKNOWLEDGEofsin.Theeyesofthepenitentmanareopened.HeseeswithdismayandconfusionthelengthandbreadthofGod'sholy law, and the extent, the enormous extent, of his own transgressions. Hediscovers, tohis surprise, that in thinkinghimself a "good sort ofman," and amanwitha"goodheart,"hehasbeenunderahugedelusion.Hefindsoutthat,inreality,he iswicked,andguilty,andcorrupt,andevil inGod'ssight.Hispridebreaksdown.Hishighthoughtsmeltaway.Heseesthatheisagreatsinner.Thisisthefirststepintruerepentance.

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(b)TruerepentancegoesontoworkSORROWforsin.Theheartofapenitentmanistouchedwithdeepremorsebecauseofhispasttransgressions.Heiscuttotheheart to think thathe shouldhave lived somadlyand sowickedly.Hemournsovertimewasted,over talentsmisspent,overGoddishonored,overhisownsoul injured.The remembrance of these things is grievous to him.Theburdenof these things issometimesalmost intolerable,Whenamansosorrows,youhave thesecondstep intruerepentance.

(c)Truerepentanceproceeds,further,toproduceCONFESSIONofsin.Thetongueofapenitentmanisloosed.HefeelshemustspeaktothatGodagainstwhomhehassinned.SomethingwithinhimtellshimhemustcrytoGod,andpraytoGod,andtalkwithGod,about thestateofhisownsoul.Hemustpourouthisheart,andacknowledge his iniquities, at the throne of grace. They are a heavy burden withinhim,andhecanno longerkeepsilence.Hecankeepnothingback.Hewillnothideanything.HegoesbeforeGod,pleadingnothingforhimself,andwillingtosay,"IhavesinnedagainstheavenandbeforeYou—myiniquityisgreat.Godbemercifultome,asinner!"WhenamangoesthustoGodinconfession,youhavethethirdstepintruerepentance.

(d)Truerepentance, furthermore, shows itself ina thoroughBREAKINGOFFfromsin.Thelifeofapenitentmanisaltered.Thecourseofhisdailyconductisentirelychanged.AnewKingreignswithinhisheart.Heputsofftheoldman.WhatGodcommandshenowdesires topractice; andwhatGod forbidshenowdesires toavoid.Hestrivesinallwaystokeepclearofsin,tofightwithsin,towarwithsin,toget the victory over sin. He ceases to do evil. He learns to do well. He breaks offsharplyfrombadwaysandbadcompanions.Helabors,howeverfeebly,toliveanewlife.Whenamandoesthis,youhavethefourthstepintruerepentance.

(e)Truerepentance,inthelastplace,showsitselfbyproducingintheheartasettledhabitofdeepHATREDofallsin.Themindofapenitentmanbecomesamindhabituallyholy.Heabhorsthatwhichisevil,andcleavestothatwhichisgood.HedelightsinthelawofGod.Hecomesshortofhisowndesiresnotunfrequently.Hefinds inhimselfanevilprinciplewarringagainst thespiritofGod.He findshimselfcold when he would be hot; backward when he would be forward; heavy when hewould be lively in God's service. He is deeply conscious of his own infirmities. Hegroansunderasenseofindwellingcorruption.Butstill,forallthat,thegeneralbiasofhisheartistowardsGod,andawayfromevil.HecansaywithDavid,"IcountallYourprecepts concerning all things to be right, and I hate every false way." (Psalm.119:128.) When a man can say this, you have the fifth, or crowning step, of truerepentance.

Butnow,isthepictureofrepentancecomplete?CanIleavethesubjecthere,andgoon? I cannot do it. There remains yet one thing behind which ought never to be

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forgotten.Were I not tomention this one thing, Imightmake hearts sad thatGodwould not have made sad, and raise seeming barriers between men's souls andheaven.Truerepentance,suchasIhavejustdescribed,isneveraloneintheheartofanyman.Italwayshasacompanion—ablessedcompanion.Itisalwaysaccompaniedby lively FAITH in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Wherever faith is, there isrepentance;whereverrepentanceis,thereisalwaysfaith.Idonotdecidewhichcomesfirst—whether repentance comes before faith, or faith before repentance. But I amboldtosaythatthetwogracesareneverfoundseparate,onefromtheother.Justasyou cannot have the sunwithout light, or icewithout cold, or firewithout heat, orwater without moisture—so long you will never find true faith without truerepentance, and youwill never find true repentancewithout lively faith.Thetwothingswillalwaysgosidebyside.

Andnow,beforeIgoanyfurther,letussearchandtryourownhearts,andseewhatwe know about true repentance. I do not affirm that the experience of all penitentpeopletalliesexactly,precisely,andminutely. Idonotsaythatanymaneverknowssin, or mourns for sin, or confesses sin, or forsakes sin, or hates sin, perfectly,thoroughly,completely,andasheought.ButthisIdosay,thatalltrueChristianswillrecognizesomethingwhich theyknowandhave felt, in the thingswhichI have justbeensaying.Repentance,suchasIhavedescribed,willbe,inthemain,theexperienceofevery truebeliever.Search, then, and seewhat you knowof it inyourownsoul.

Beware that you make no mistake about the nature of true repentance. The devilknowstoowellthevalueofthatpreciousgracenottodressupspuriousimitationsofit.Whereverthere isgoodcointherewillalwaysbebadmoney.Wherever there isavaluablegrace, thedevilwillput incirculationcounterfeitsandshamsof thatgrace,andtrytopalmthemoffonmen'ssouls.Makesurethatyouarenotdeceived.

(a)Takeheedthatyourrepentancebeabusinessofyourheart. It is not agraveface,orasanctimoniouscountenance,oraroundofself-imposedausterities;itis not this alone which makes up true repentance towards God. The real grace issomething far deeper than amere affair of face, and clothes, and days, and forms.Ahabcouldputonsackclothwhenitservedhisturn.ButAhabneverrepented.

(b)Takeheed that your repentancebea repentancewherein you turn toGod.RomanCatholicscanruntopriestsandconfessionals,whentheyarefrightened.Felixcould tremble,whenheheard theApostlePaulpreach.But all this isnot truerepentance.SeethatyourrepentanceleadsyouuntoGod,andmakesyoufleetoHimasyourbestFriend.

(c)Takeheedthatyourrepentancebearepentanceattendedbyathoroughforsakingofsin. Sentimental people can crywhen they hearmoving sermons on

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Sundays,andyetreturntotheball,thetheater,andtheoperaintheweekafter.Herodliked tohearJohn theBaptistpreach, andheardhimgladly, "anddidmany things."But feelings in religion are worse than worthless, unless they are accompanied bypractice.Meresentimentalexcitement,withoutthoroughbreakingofffromsin,isnottherepentancewhichGodapproves.(Mark6:20.)

(d)Takeheed,aboveall things, thatyourrepentance iscloselyboundupwith faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. See that your convictions are convictionswhich never rest except at the foot of the cross whereon Jesus Christ died. JudasIscariot could say, "I have sinned," but Judas never turned to Jesus. Judas neverlookedbyfaithtoJesus,andthereforeJudasdiedinhissins.Givemethatconvictionof sin which makes a man flee to Christ, and mourn, because by his sins he haspiercedtheLordwhoboughthim.GivemethatcontritionofsoulunderwhichamanfeelsmuchaboutChrist,andgrievestothinkofthedespitehehasdonetosograciousa Savior. Going to Sinai, hearing about the ten commandments, looking at hell,thinkingabouttheterrorsofdamnation—allthismaymakepeopleafraid,andhasitsuse.ButnorepentanceeverlastsinwhichamandoesnotlookatCalvarymorethanat Sinai, and see in a bleeding Jesus the strongest motive for contrition. Suchrepentance comesdown fromheaven.Such repentance is planted inman'sheart byGodtheHolySpirit.

II.IpassonnowtothesecondpointwhichIproposedtohandle.IwillconsidertheNECESSITYofrepentance.Whyisrepentanceneedful?

The text which stands at the head of this paper shows clearly the necessity ofrepentance.Thewords of ourLord JesusChrist are distinct, express, and emphatic,"Except you repent, you shall all likewise perish." All, all, without exception, needrepentance toward God. It is not only necessary for thieves, murderers, drunkards,adulterers, fornicators, and the inhabitants of prisons and of jails. No—all born ofAdam, all, without exception, need repentance toward God. The queen upon herthrone and the pauper in the workhouse, the rich man in his drawing room, theservant maid in the kitchen, the professor of sciences at the University, the poorignorantboywho follows theplough—allbynatureneedrepentance.Allareborn insin,andallmustrepentandbeconverted,iftheywouldbesaved.Allmusthavetheirheartschangedaboutsin.Allmustrepent,aswellasbelievetheGospel."Exceptyoubeconverted,andbecomeaslittlechildren,youshallinnowiseenterthekingdomofheaven.""Exceptyourepent,youshallalllikewiseperish."(Matt.18:3;Luke13:3.)

But whence comes the necessity of repentance?Why is such tremendously stronglanguage used about this necessity? What are the reasons, what the causes, whyrepentanceissoneedful?

(a) For one thing, without repentance there is no forgiveness of sins. In

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sayingthis,Imustguardmyselfagainstmisconstruction.Iaskyouemphaticallynottomisunderstandme.Thetearsofrepentancewashawaynosins.Itisbadtheologytosay that they do. That is the office, that the work of the blood of Christ alone.Contritionmakesnoatonementfortransgression.Itiswretchedtheologytosaythatitdoes.Itcandonothingofthekind.Ourbestrepentanceisapoor,imperfectthing—and needs repenting over again. Our best contrition has defects enough about it tosinkusintohell."WearecountedrighteousbeforeGodonlyforthesakeofourLordJesus Christ, by faith, and not for our own works or deservings," not for ourrepentance,holiness,almsgiving,sacramentreceiving,oranythingofthekind.Allthisisperfectlytrue.

Butstill it isnolesstruethat justifiedpeoplearealwayspenitentpeople,andthataforgivensinnerwillalwaysbeamanwhomournsover,and loatheshissins.God inChrist iswilling to receive rebelliousman, and grant himpeace, if he only come toHim in Christ's name however wicked he may have been. But God requires, andrequires justly, that the rebel shall throw down his arms. The Lord Jesus Christ isreadytopity,pardon,relieve,cleanse,wash,sanctify,andfitforheaven.ButtheLordJesusChristdesirestoseeamanhatethesinsthathewishestobeforgiven.Letsomepeoplecallthis"legality"iftheywill.Letsomecall it"bondage"iftheyplease.Itakemy stand on Scripture. The testimony of God's Word is plain and unmistakable.Justified people are always penitent people. Without repentance there is noforgivenessofsins.

(b)Foranotherthing,withoutrepentancethereisnohappinessinthelifethatnowis.Theremaybehighspirits,excitement,laughterandmerriment,solongashealthisgood,andmoneyisinthepocket.Butthesethingsarenotsolidhappiness.Thereisaconscienceinallpeople,andthatconsciencemustbesatisfied.So longasconsciencefeelsthatsinhasnotbeenrepentedofandforsaken,solongitwillnotbequiet,andwillnotletamanfeelcomfortablewithin.Weallofushaveaninnerman,unknownto theworld—an innerman,withwhichourcompanionsand friendshaveoften no acquaintance. That innerman has a burden upon it, so long as sin is notrepentedof;anduntil thatburden is takenoff, that innermanhasno real comfort.CanyouandIbecomfortable,whenwearenot inarightposition?It is impossible.Andwhatisaman'strueposition?Heisneverinhisrightpositionuntilhehasturnedhisbackuponsin,andturnedhisfacetowardsGod.

Aman's house is never comfortable until all things are in order. And when is thehouseoftheinwardmaninorder?Never,untilGodisking,andtheworldputdowninthesecondplace;never,untilGodisuponthethrone,andsincastdownandputoutofdoors.Youmightaswellexpectthesolarsystemtogoonwellwithoutthesun,asexpectthatheartofyourstobecomfortablewhenGodisnotinHisplace.ThegreataccountwithGodmustbesettled.TheKingmustbeuponHisthrone.Then,andnotuntil then, there will be peace within. Without repentance there can be no true

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happiness.Wemustrepentifwewanttobehappy.

(c) For another thing, without repentance there can be no fitness forheavenintheworldthatisyettocome.Heaven is apreparedplace, and thosewho go to heavenmust be a prepared people. Our hearts must be in tune for theemploymentsofheaven,orelseheavenitselfwouldbeamiserableabode.Ourmindsmustbe in harmonywith those of the inhabitants of heaven, or else the society ofheavenwouldsoonbeintolerabletous.GladlywouldIhelpeveryonetoheaven intowhosehandsthispapermayfall.ButIneverwouldhaveyouignorantthatifyouwenttherewithanimpenitentheart,heavenwouldbenoheaventoyoursoul.Whatcouldyoupossiblydoinheaven,ifyougottherewithaheartlovingsin?Towhichofallthesaintswouldyouspeak?Bywhosesidewouldyousitdown?SurelytheangelsofGodwouldmakenosweetmusic to theheartofhimwhocannotbearsaintsuponearth,andneverpraisedtheLambforredeeminglove!Surelythecompanyofpatriarchs,andapostles,andprophets,wouldbenojoytothatmanwhowillnotreadhisBiblenow,anddoesnotcaretoknowwhatapostlesandprophetswrote.

Oh,no!no!therecanbenohappiness inheaven, ifwegettherewithanimpenitentheart.Thefishisnothappywhenit isoutofwater.Thebirdisnothappywhenit isconfined in a cage. Andwhy? They are all out of their proper element and naturalposition.Andman,unconvertedman,impenitentman,wouldnotbehappyifhegottoheavenwithoutaheartchangedbytheHolySpirit.Hewouldbeacreatureoutofhisproper element.Hewould have no faculties to enable him to enjoy his holy abode.Withoutapenitentheartthereisno"fitnessfortheinheritanceofthesaintsinlight."Wemustrepent,ifwewanttogotoheaven.(Coloss.1:12.)

IbeseechyoubythemerciesofGod,tolaytoheartthethingswhichIhavejustbeensaying, and to ponder them well. You live in a world of cheating, imposition, anddeception. Let no man deceive you about the necessity of repentance. Oh, thatprofessing Christians would see, and know, and feel, more than they do—thenecessity, the absolute necessity, of true repentance towards God! There are manythings which are not needful. Riches are not needful. Health is not needful. Fineclothesarenotneedful.Noble friendsarenotneedful.The favorof theworld isnotneedful. Gifts and learning are not needful. Millions have reached heaven withoutthese things. Thousands are reaching heaven every year without them. But no oneever reached heaven without "repentance toward God, and faith toward our LordJesusChrist."

Letnomaneverpersuadeyou thatany religiondeserves tobe called theGospel, inwhichrepentancetowardGodhasnotamostprominentplace.AGospel,indeed!ThatisnoGospelinwhichrepentanceisnotaprincipalthing.AGospel!ItistheGospelofman—butnotofGod.AGospel!Itcomesfromearth—butnotfromheaven.AGospel!ItisnottheGospelatall;itisrankantinomianism,andnothingelse.Solongasyou

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hugyoursins,andcleavetoyoursins,andwillhaveyoursins,solongyoumaytalkasyoupleaseabouttheGospel—butyoursinsarenotforgiven.Youmaycallthatlegal,ifyoulike.Youmaysay, ifyouplease,you"hopeitwillbeallrightat the last—Godismerciful—Godislove—Christhasdied—IhopeIshallgotoheavenafterall."No!Itellyou, it isnotallright.Itwillneverbeallright,atthatrate.Youaretramplingunderfootthebloodofatonement.YouhaveasyetnopartorlotinChrist.Solongasyoudonotrepentofsin,theGospelofourLordJesusChristisnoGospeltoyoursoul.ChristisaSaviorfromsin—notaSaviorformaninsin.Ifamanwillhavehissins,thedaywillcomewhenthatmercifulSaviorwillsaytohim,"DepartfromMe,youworkerofiniquity! Depart into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels." (Matt.25:41.)

Let no man ever delude you into supposing that you can be happy in this worldwithout repentance.Oh, no! Youmay laugh anddance, and go upon vacations, andcrackgood jokes,andsinggoodsongs,andsay, "Cheer,boys, cheer!" and "There's agoodtimecoming!"—butallthisisnoproofthatyouarehappy.Solongasyoudonotquarrelwithsin,youwillneverbeatrulyhappyman.Thousandsgoonforatimeinthisway,andseemmerrybeforetheeyesofothers,andyetintheirheartscarryaboutalurkingsorrow.Whentheyarealonetheyarewretched.Whentheyarenotinjovialcompanytheyarelow.Consciencemakescowardsofthem.Theydonotlikebeingbythemselves. They hate quiet thinking. They must constantly have some newexcitement.Every year theymusthavemore. Just as anopium-eater needs a largerand larger doses—so does themanwho seeks happiness in anything except inGodneedgreaterexcitementeveryyearthathelives,andafterallisneverreallyhappy.

Yes!andworsethanall,thelongeryougoonwithoutrepentance,themoreunhappywillthatheartofyoursbe.Whenoldagecreepsoveryou,andgreyhairsappearuponyourhead—whenyouareunabletogowhereyouoncewent,andtakepleasurewhereyouoncetookpleasure—yourwretchednessandmiserywillbreakinuponyoulikeanarmedman.Themoreimpenitentamanis,themoremiserablehebecomes.HaveyoueverheardofthegreatclockofSt.Paul'scathedral,inLondon?Atmidday,intheroarofbusiness,whencarriages,andcarts,andwagons,andomnibuses,gorollingthroughthestreets,howmanyneverhearthatgreatclockstrike,unlesstheyliveverynearit.Butwhentheworkofthedayisover,andtheroarofbusinesshaspassedaway—whenpeoplearegonetosleep,andsilencereignsinLondon—thenattwelve,atone,attwo,atthree,atfour,thesoundofthatclockmaybeheardformilesround.Twelve!One!Two!Three!Four!Howthatclockisheardbymanyasleeplessman!Thatclockisjustliketheconscienceoftheimpenitentman.Whilehehashealthandstrength,andgoeson in thewhirlofbusiness,hewillnothear conscience.Hedrownsand silences itsvoicebyplungingintotheworld.Hewillnotallowtheinnermantospeaktohim.Butthedaywillcomewhenconsciencewillbeheard,whetherhelikesitornot.Thedaywillcomewhenitsvoicewillsoundinhisears,andpiercehimlikeasword.Thetimewillcomewhenhemustretirefromtheworld,andliedownonthesickbed,andlook

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deathinthe face.Andthentheclockofconscience, thatsolemnclock,willsound inhisheart,andifhehasnotrepented,willbringwretchednessandmiserytohissoulOh,no!writeitdowninthetabletsofyourheart—withoutrepentancenopeace!

Aboveall, letnomanmakeyoudreamthat there isapossibilityof reachingheavenwithoutrepentancetowardGod.Weallwanttogotoheaven.Amanwouldbejustlyset down as amadman, if he said that he wanted to go to hell. But never let it beforgotten,thatnonegotoheavenexceptthosewhomtheHolySpirithaspreparedforit.Imakemysolemnprotestagainstthosemoderndelusions,"thatallpeopleshallgoto heaven at last—that it matters not how you live—that whether you are holy orunholy itdoesnotmatter—thatwhetheryouaregodlessorGod-fearing, it is all thesamething,thatallatlastwillgettoheaven."IcannotfindsuchteachingintheBible.I find the Bible contradicting it flatly. However speciously this new idea may bepropounded,andhoweverplausiblyitmaybedefended,itcannotstandthetestoftheWordofGod.No! letGodbe true,andeverymana liar.Heaven isnosuchplaceassomeseemtofancy.Theinhabitantsofheavenarenosuchmixedmultitudeasmanytrytobelieve.Theyareallofoneheart,andonemind.Heaven is theplacetowhichGod'speopleshallgo.Butforthosewhoareimpenitentandunbelieving,andwillnotcome to Christ, for such the Bible says, plainly and unmistakably, there remainsnothingbuthell.

It is a solemn thought that an impenitentman isunfit forheaven.He couldnotbehappyinheaven,ifhegotthere.Irememberhearingofaclergymanwhomanyyearsagowastravelingbycoach.Hesatbythecoachman'sside.Thecoachmanwasoneofthose unhappy people who fancy nothing is to be done without swearing. He wascursing, swearing, blaspheming, taking God's name in vain, for many a long miletogether.Onhedrove,nowflyingintoapassion,nowbeatinghishorses,nowcursingandswearingagain.Suchwerethecoachman'sways.Atlasttheclergymansaidtohimquietly,"Coachman,Iamexceedinglyafraidforyou.""Sir,"saidthecoachman,"whatshould you be afraid of? All is going on right, we are not likely to be upset.""Coachman," said the clergyman again, "I am exceedingly afraid for you; because Icannotthinkwhatyouwoulddoinheaven,ifyougotthere.Therewillbenocursinginheaven; therewill beno swearing inheaven; therewill benopassion inheaven;therewillbenohorsestobeatinheaven.""Coachman,"saidtheministeroncemore,"Icannotthinkwhatyouwoulddoinheaven.""Oh,"saidthecoachman,"thatisyouropinion,"andnomorewassaid.Yearspassedaway.Adaycamewhenaperson toldthissameclergyman thata sickmandesired to seehim.Hewasa stranger.Hehadcomeintotheparish,hesaid,becausehewantedtodiethere.Theclergymanwent toseehim.Heenteredaroomandfoundadyingman,whosefacehedidnotknow."Sir,"saidthedyingman,"youdonotrememberme?""No,"saidtheclergyman,"Idonot.""Sir,"saidtheman,"Irememberyou.Iamthatcoachmantowhom,manyyearsago,yousaid,'Coachman,Iamafraidforyou,becauseIdonotknowwhatyouwoulddoifyougottoheaven.'Sir,thosewordslaidholduponme.IsawIwasnotfittodie.Those

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wordsworked, andworked, andworked inmyheart, and I never rested until I hadrepentedofsin,andfledtoChrist,andfoundpeaceinHim,andbecameanewman.Andnow,"saidhe,"bythegraceofGodItrustIampreparedtomeetmyMaker,andamfitfortheinheritanceofthesaintsinlight."

OncemoreIchargeyoutoremember—withoutrepentancetowardGod,therecanbenofitnessforheaven.Itwouldgivepaintoanimpenitentmantoplacehimthere.Itwould be nomercy to him.Hewould not be happy. He could not be happy. Therecouldbenoenjoymentinheaventoamanwhogottherewithoutahearthatingsin,andaheart lovingGod.Iexpecttoseemanywondersatthe lastday.IexpecttoseesomeattherighthandoftheLordJesusChrist,whomIoncefearedIwouldseeupontheleft.IexpecttoseesomeatthelefthandwhomIsupposedtobegoodChristians,andexpectedtoseeattheright.ButthereisonethingIamsureIshallnotsee.Ishallnot see at the right hand of Jesus Christ one single impenitent man. I shall seeAbrahamthere,whosaid,"Iamdustandashes."IshallseeJacobthere,whosaid,"IamnotworthyoftheleastofallYourmercies."IshallseeJobthere,whosaid,"Iamvile." I shall see David there, who said, "I was shaped in iniquity—in sin did mymotherconceiveme."IshallseeIsaiahthere,whosaid,"Iamamanofuncleanlips."Ishall see Paul there,who said, "I am the chief of sinners." (Gen. 18:27; 32:10; Job.40:4;Psalm51:5;Isa.6:5;1Tim.1:15.)IshallseethemartyrJohnBradfordthere,whooften signedhimself at the endofhis letters, "Thatwretched sinner, thatmiserablesinner,JohnBradford," thatsameJohnBradfordwho said,wheneverhe sawamangoingtobehanged,"TheregoesJohnBradford—butforthegraceofGod."IshallseeUsher there, whose last words were, "Pardon my many sins, especially my sins ofomission." I shall see Grimshaw there, whose last words were, "Here goes anunprofitable servant." But they will all be of one heart, one mind, one experience.Theywillallhavehatedsin.Theywillallhavemournedforsin.Theywillallhaveconfessedsin.Theywillallhaveforsakensin.Theywillallhaverepentedaswellasbelieved,repentedtowardGodaswellasbelievedinJesusChrist.Theywillall saywithonevoice,"WhathasGodwrought!"Theywillallsay,"BythegraceofGodIamwhereIam,"aswellas"BythegraceofGodIamwhatIam."

III. I come now to the third and last thing of which I promised to speak. I willconsidertheENCOURAGEMENTStorepentance.Whatistheretoleadamantorepent?

Ifeel itveryimportanttosaysomethingonthispoint.Iknowthatmanydifficultiesariseinthewaywhenthesubjectofrepentanceisbroughtbeforeus.Iknowhowslowmanistogiveupsin.Youmightaswelltellhimtocutoffarighthand,orpluckoutarighteye,orcutoffarightfoot—astellhimtopartwithhisdarlingsins.Iknowthestrengthofoldhabitsandearlywaysofthinkingaboutreligion.Atfirst theyarealllikecobwebs.Atlasttheyareironchains.Iknowthepowerofpride,andthat"fearofmanthatbringsasnare."Iknowthedislikethereisinpeopletobeingthoughtasaint,

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andsupposedtocareaboutreligion.Iknowthathundredsandthousandswouldnevershrinkfromgoingtowar—andyetcannotbeartobelaughedatandthoughtridiculousbecausetheycarefortheirsouls.AndIknow,too,themaliceofourgreatenemy,thedevil.Willhepartwithhis"lawfulcaptives"withoutaconflict?Never!Willhegiveuphispreywithoutafight?Never!Ioncesawalion,attheZoologicalGardens,beingfed.Isawhismealcastdownbeforehim. I sawthekeeper try to take thatmealaway. Irememberthelion'sroar,hisspring,hisstruggletoretainhisfood.AndIrememberthe"roaringlionthatwalksabout,seekingwhomhemaydevour."(1Pet.5:8.)Willhegiveupaman,andlethimrepent,withoutastruggle?Never,never,never!Manneedsmanyencouragementstomakehimrepent.

Butthereareencouragements,great,broad,wide,fullandfree.TherearethingsintheWordofGodwhichoughttonerveeveryheart,andarouseeveryonetorepentwithoutdelay. I desire to bring these things before the readers of this volume. I would nothave one soul lay down this paper and say, "The thing cannot be done—it isimpossible."Ishouldlikeall tosay, "There ishope—there ishope!There isanopendoor!Itispossible—thethingcanbedone!BythegraceofGodamanmayrepent!"

(a)Hear,foronething,whatagraciousSaviortheLordJesusChrist is.Iplace Him first and foremost, as the great argument to encourage a man torepentance. I say to every doubting soul, Look at Christ, think of Christ.He is one"abletosavetotheuttermost,allwhocomeuntoGodbyHim."Heisoneanointed"aPrinceandaSavior, togive repentanceaswellas remissionof sins."He isonewho"cametoseekandtosavethatwhichwaslost."Heisonewhosaid,"Icamenottocallthe righteous—but sinners to repentance."He is onewho cries, "ComeuntoMe, allyou who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." He is one who haspledgedHisroyalword,"HimwhocomesuntoMe,Iwillnevercastout."AndHeitisofwhomit iswritten,"AsmanyasreceivedHim,tothemgaveHepowertobecomethe sons ofGod, even to thosewhobelieve onHis name." I answer all doubts, andquestions,anddifficulties,andobjections,andfearswiththissimpleargument.Isaytoeveryonewhowantsencouragement,LookatChrist,thinkofChrist.ConsiderJesusChrist the Lord; and then doubt about repentance no more. (Heb. 7:25; Acts 5:31;Luke19:10;Mark2:17;Matt.11:28;John6:37;John1:12.)

(b) Hear, for another thing, what glorious promises the Word of Godcontains.Itiswritten,"Whoeverconfessesandforsakeshissinsshallfindmercy."Itiswrittenagain,"Ifweconfessoursins,Heisfaithfulandjusttoforgiveusoursins,andtocleanseusfromallunrighteousness."Itiswrittenagain,"Blessedarethepoorinspirit,fortheirsisthekingdomofGod.Blessedarethosewhomourn,fortheyshallbe comforted.Blessedare thosewhohungerand thirst after righteousness, for theyshallbe filled."Surely thesepromisesareencouragements.Again I say,doubtaboutrepentancenomore.(Prov.28:13;1John1:9;Matt.5:3,4,6.)

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(c)Hear, foranother thing,whatgraciousdeclarations theWordofGodcontains, "When the wicked man turns away from his wickedness that he hascommitted,anddoesthatwhichislawfulandright,heshallsavehissoulalive.""ThesacrificesofGodareabrokenspirit—abrokenandacontriteheart,OGod,Youwillnotdespise.""Godisnotwillingthatanyshouldperish—butthatallshouldcometorepentance.""AsIlive,saystheLord,Ihavenopleasureinthedeathofthewicked—turn!Turn!Whywillyoudie?""ThereisjoyinthepresenceoftheangelsofGodoverone sinner that repents." (Ezek. 18:27; Psalm 51:17; 2 Pet. 3:9; Ezek. 33:11; Luke15:10.)Surely thosewords are encouraging, if anywords can be!Again I say, doubtaboutrepentancenomore.

(d)Hear,foranotherthing,whatmarvelousparablesourLordJesusspokeuponthissubject."Twomenwentuptothetemplecomplextopray,oneaPhariseeand theothera taxcollector.ThePharisee tookhis standandwaspraying like this:'God, I thankYou that I'mnot likeotherpeople—greedy,unrighteous,adulterers,orevenlikethistaxcollector.Ifasttwiceaweek;IgiveatenthofeverythingIget.'"Butthe tax collector, standing far off,wouldnot even raise his eyes to heaven but keptstrikinghischestandsaying,'God,turnYourwrathfromme—asinner!'Itellyou,thisonewent down to his house justified rather than the other; because everyonewhoexalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."(Luke23:10-14.)

Hear, again, that othermarvelous parable—the parable of the prodigal son. "Amanhadtwosons.Theyoungerofthemsaidtohisfather,'Father,givemetheshareoftheestateIhavecomingtome.'Sohedistributedtheassetstothem.Notmanydayslater,theyoungersongatheredtogetherallhehadandtraveledtoadistantcountry,wherehe squandered his estate in foolish living. After he had spent everything, a severefaminestruckthatcountry,andhehadnothing.Thenhewenttoworkforoneofthecitizensofthatcountry,whosenthimintohisfieldstofeedpigs.Helongedtoeathisfillfromthecarobpodsthepigswereeating,butnoonewouldgivehimany.Whenhecame tohis senses, he said, 'Howmanyofmy father's hiredhandshavemore thanenough food,andhereIamdyingofhunger! I'll getup,go tomy father,andsay tohim,Father,Ihavesinnedagainstheavenandinyoursight.I'mnolongerworthytobecalledyourson.Makemelikeoneofyourhiredhands.'Sohegotupandwent tohisfather.Butwhilethesonwasstillalongwayoff,hisfathersawhimandwasfilledwithcompassion.He ran, threwhisarmsaroundhisneck, andkissedhim.The sonsaid to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. I'm no longerworthytobecalledyourson.'"Butthefathertoldhisslaves,'Quick!Bringoutthebestrobeandputitonhim;putaringonhisfingerandsandalsonhisfeet.Thenbringthefattenedcalfandslaughterit,andlet'scelebratewithafeast,becausethissonofminewas dead and is alive again; hewas lost and is found!' So they began to celebrate."(Luke15:11-24.)Surelythesearemightyencouragementstorepentance.AgainIsay,doubtaboutrepentancenomore.

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(e)Hear,lastly,whatwonderfulexamplesthereareintheWordofGod,ofGod'smercyandkindnesstopenitentpeople.Read the storyofDavid.WhatsincanbegreaterthanDavid'ssin?ButwhenDavidturnedtotheLord,andsaid,"Ihave sinned against theLord," the answer came, "TheLordhas put away your sin."ReadthestoryofManasseh.Whatwickednesscouldhavebeengreaterthanhis?Hekilledhisownchildren.Heturnedhisbackuponhisfather'sGod.Heplacedidolsinthetemple.Andyet,whenManassehwasinprisonandhumbledhimself,andprayedto the Lord, the Lord heard his prayer, and brought him out of captivity. Read thehistoryofPeter.Whatapostasycouldbegreaterthanhis?HedeniedhisMasterthreetimesoverwithanoath!Andyet,whenPeterwept,andmournedforhissin,therewasmercyevenforPeter,andpenitentPeterwasrestoredtohisMaster'sfavor.Readthestoryofthepenitentthief.Whatcasecouldbemoredesperate thanhis?Hewasadyingmanonthebrinkofhell.YetwhenhesaidtoJesus,"Lord,remembermewhenYoucomeintoYourkingdom,"atoncethemarvelousanswercame,"VerilyIsayuntoyou,Today shall you" (even you) "bewithMe in paradise." (2 Sam. 12:13; 2Chron.33:1-19;Mark16:7;Luke23:39-43.)

Whatgreaterencouragementtorepentancecanbeimaginedorconceived?Whyareallthesecasesrecordedforourlearning?Theyareintendedtoleadpeopletorepentance.They are all patterns of God's long-suffering—patterns of God's mercy—patterns ofGod'swillingnesstoreceivepenitentsinners.TheyareproofsofwhatGod'sgracecando.Theyareacloudofwitnesses,proving that it isworthwhile formantorepent—thatthere isencouragementformantoturntoGod,andthatsuchaoneasgoesonstill in his sins is utterly without excuse. "The goodness of God leads him torepentance."(Rom.2:4.)

Irememberhearingofamotherwhosedaughterranawayfromher,andlivedalifeofsin.Foralongtimenoonecouldtellwhereshewas.Yetthatdaughtercamebackandwas reclaimed. She became a true penitent. She was taught to mourn for sin. SheturnedtoChristandbelievedinHim.Oldthingspassedaway,andallthingsbecamenew.Hermotherwasaskedonedaytotellwhatshehaddonetobringherdaughterback.Whatmeans had she used?What steps had she taken?Her reply was a verystrikingone.Shesaid,"Iprayedforhernightandday."Butthatwasnotall.Shewentontosay,"Ineverwenttobedatnightwithoutleavingmyfrontdoorunlocked,andthedooronthelatch.IthoughtifmydaughtercamebacksomenightwhenIwasinbed,sheshouldneverbeabletosaythatshefoundthedoorshut.Sheshouldneverbeable to say that she came to her mother's home—but could not get in." And so itturnedout.Herdaughtercamebackonenight,andtriedthedoor,andfoundthedooropen,andatoncecamein,togooutandsinnomore.Thatopendoorwasthesavingofhersoul.

That open door is a beautiful illustration of the heart of God towards sinners! The

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doorofmercyissetwideopen.Thedoorisnotyetlocked.Thedoorisalwaysuponthelatch.God's heart is full of love.God's heart is full of compassion.Whoever amanmay have been, and whatever a man may have been, at midnight, at any time,wheneverhereturnstoGod,hewillfindGodwillingtoreceivehim,readytopardonhim,andgladtohavehimathome.Allthingsareready.Whoeverwill,maycomein.

And,outofallthemillionswhohaveturnedtoGodandrepented,whoeverrepentedof repentance? I answer boldly, Not one! Thousands every year repent of folly andunbelief.Thousandsmournovertimemisspent.Thousandsregrettheirdrunkenness,andgambling,and fornication,andoaths,and idleness;andneglectedopportunities.Butnoonehaseverrisenupanddeclared to theworld thatherepentsof repentingandturningtowardGod.Thesteps inthenarrowwayof lifeareall inonedirection.Youwill never see in the narrowway the step of onewho turned back because thenarrowwaywasnotgood.

IrememberreadingofaremarkableeventthatoccurredinaplaceofworshipwhereaPuritanminister,Mr.Doolittle,waspreaching,twohundredyearsago.Justashewasabouttobeginhissermon,hesawayoungman,astranger,coming intohischurch.Heguessedbytheyoungman'smanner thathewasanxiousabouthissoul,andyetundecidedaboutreligion.He tooka remarkablecoursewithhim.He triedacuriousexperiment—butGodblessedittotheyoungman'ssoul.BeforeMr.Doolittlegaveouthis text, he turned to an oldChristianwhomhe saw on one side of his church.Headdressed him by name, and said to him, "Brother, do you repent of having servedGod?"TheoldChristianstoodupmanfullybefore thecongregation,and said, "Sir, IhaveservedtheLordfrommyyouth,andHehasneverdonemeanythingbutgood."Heturnedtothelefthand,wherehesawanotherChristian,andaddressedhiminthesame way. "Brother," said he, calling him by his name, "Do you repent of havingservedChrist? "Thatmanalso stoodupmanfully before the congregation, and said,"Sir, I never was truly happy until I took up the cross, and served the Lord JesusChrist."ThenMr.Doolittleturnedtotheyoungman,andsaid,"Youngman,willyourepent?Youngman,willyoutakeupthecross?Youngman,willyouthisdaybegintoserveChrist?"Godsentpowerwiththesewords.Theyoungmanstoodupbefore thecongregation, and said in a humble tone, "Yes sir, I will." That very day was thebeginning of eternal life in the youngman's soul.Wemay depend upon it, the twoanswerswhichMr.DoolittlegotthatdayaretheexperienceofalltrueChristians.

Wemaybequitesurethatnomaneverrepentsofrepentance.NomanwaseversorrythatheservedtheLord.Nomaneversaidattheendofhisdays,"IhavereadmyBibletoomuch,IhavethoughtofGodtoomuch,Ihaveprayedtoomuch,Ihavebeentooconcernedaboutmysoul."Oh,no!ThepeopleofGodwouldalwayssay,"HadImylifeoveragain,IwouldwalkfarmorecloselywithGodthaneverIhavedone.IamsorrythatIhavenotservedGodbetter—butIamnotsorrythatIhaveservedHim.Thewayof Christmay have its cross. But it is a way of pleasantness, and a path of peace."

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Surelythatfactalonespeaksvolumes.ItisafactthatclincheseveryargumentwhichIhave already advanced. Surely it is worth while for a man to repent. There areencouragements.Theimpenitentmaniswithoutexcuse.

Andnow,IhavebroughtbeforemyreadersthethreepointswhichIproposedattheoutsetofthispapertoconsider.Ihaveshownyouthenatureofrepentance towardGod—thenecessityofrepentance—andtheencouragementstorepentance.Itonlyremains to conclude this paper by a few words of practical affectionateAPPLICATIONtothesoulsofallwhoreadit.

(1)My firstword shallbeawordofWARNING. I offer an affectionatewarning toeveryimpenitentsoulintowhosehandsthisvolumemayfall.Icannotforamomentsuppose that all who read its pages are truly repentant toward God, and livelybelieversinJesusChrist.Idarenotthinkit.Icannotthinkit.Andmyfirstwordshallbeawordofwarning—tender,affectionatewarning,toallimpenitentandunconvertedpeoplewhomayhappentoreadthispaper.

WhatstrongerwarningcanIgiveyouthanthatwhichmytextcontains?Whatwordscan I use more solemn and more heart-searching than the words of my Lord andMaster,"Exceptyourepent,youshallall likewiseperish!"Yes!youwhoarereading,and, as you read, know you are not yet at peace with God, you who are halting,lingering, undecided, in religion—you are the man to whom the words of the textshouldcomewithpower,"Exceptyourepent,you,"evenyou,"shallperish!"

Oh, thinkwhat dreadfulwords are these!Who canmeasure out the full amount ofwhattheycontain?"Shallperish!"Perishinbody—perishinsoul—perishmiserablyatlast in hell! I darenot attempt to paint the horrors of that thought. Theworm thatnever dies, the fire that is not quenched, the blackness of darkness forever, thehopelessprison,thebottomlesspit, the lakethatburnswithfireandbrimstone—all,allarebutfeebleemblemsoftherealityofhell.Andtothishellallimpenitentpeopleare daily traveling! Yes—from churches and chapels, from richmen'smansions andpoormen'scottages,fromthemidstofknowledge,wealth,andrespectability—allwhowillnot repentarecertainly traveling towardshell. "Except you repent, you shall allperish!"

ThinkhowgreatisyourDANGER!Whereareyoursins,yourmanysins?Youknowyouareasinner.Youmustbeawareofit.Itisvaintopretendyouhavecommittednosins.Andwhereareyoursins,ifyouhaveneveryetrepented,nevermournedforsin,never confessed sin, never fled to Christ, and never found pardon through Christ'sblood?Oh,takeheedtoyourself.Thepitopenshermouthforyou.Thedevilissayingof you, "Hewill bemine!" Take heed to yourself. Remember thewords of the text,"Exceptyourepent,youshallalllikewiseperish."Theyarenotmywords—butChrist'swords. It isnotmy saying—butChrist's saying.Christ says it. Christ, themerciful—

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Christ,thegracioussays,"Exceptyourepent,youwillcertainlyperish."

Think again of yourGUILT. Yes, I say, deliberately, think of your guilt. It is guiltwhen a man does not repent. We are responsible and accountable to God forrepentance. It is vain to saywearenot.WhatdoesPaul say to theAthenians, "Godcommandsallpeopleeverywheretorepent."(Acts17:30.)WhatdoesourLordsayofChorazinandBethsaida?Whyweretheysoguilty?Whywastheirpositioninhelltobe so intolerable? Because they would not repent and believe. It is the expresstestimony of the Son of God that the impenitent man who has been called torepentance,andrefusedtoobeythecall, ismoreguiltythanthemanwhohasneverbeenurgedtorepent.

ThinkoftheFOLLYofremaininganimpenitentman!Yes,Isaythefolly.Theworldyoucleavetoismeltingbeneathyourfeetalready.Whatwillbank-notesdoforyouinthelifetocome?Whatwillyourgoldbeworthtoyouahundredyearshence?Whenyour last hour comes, what can all the gold in the globe do for you, if you die animpenitentman?Youlivefortheworld,perhaps,now.Youstrivehardandfuriouslyto be successful in business. You compass sea and land to add acre to acre, oraccumulatestock in the funds.Youdoallyoucan togetmoney, toamassriches, tomakeyourselfcomfortable,tohavepleasure,toleavesomethingforwifeandchildrenwhenyoudie.But, oh, remember!Remember, if youhavenot got the grace ofGodandtruerepentance,youareapoorman,apauperinthesightofGod.

Ishallnever forget theeffectproduceduponmyownmindwhen I readsomeyearsagoofthatfearfulshipwreck,thelossofthe'CentralAmerica'—agreatsteamerwhichwaslostonthevoyagefromHavannahtoNewYork.ThatsteamerwasbringinghomefromCalifornia three or four hundred gold-diggers. Theyhad all got their gold, andwerecominghome,proposingtospendtheirlatterdaysineaseintheirowncountry.Butmanproposes—andGoddisposes.

About twenty-four hours after the Central America left Havannah, a mighty stormarose.Threeorfourheavyseasinsuccessionstrucktheship,andseriouslydamagedher.Theenginesbecamedisabledanduseless,andshewastossedbythewildsea.Shesprung a leak, and in spite of every effort the ship began to fill. And after a while,when all on board had pumped and baled, and baled and pumped, until they wereexhausted,itbecameplain that theCentralAmerica,withher threeor fourhundredpassengersandallhercrew,waslikelytogodownintothedeep,deepsea,andcarrynearlyallonboardwithher.Thecrewlaunchedtheonlyboatstheyhad.Theyplacedthewomenpassengersintheseboats,withjustasufficientcomplementofsailorstomanagethem.Allhonorbetothemfortheirkindfeelingtotheweakanddefenselessatatimelikethat!Theboatsputofffromthevessel;buttherewereleftbehindtwoorthree hundred people, many of them gold-diggers, when the Central America wentdown.Onewholefttheshipinoneofthelastboatswhichtookthewomen,described

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whathesawinthecabinof thesteamerwhenallhopewasgone,andthegreatshipwasabout togodown.People tookout theirgold.Onesaid,holdinghis leatherbag,containinghislongtoiledforaccumulations,"Here—takeitwhowill!Takeitwhowill.It isnomoreuse tome—theship isgoingdown.Take itwhowill."Others tookouttheirgold,andscattered itallover. "There," theysaid, "take it—take itwhowill!Weareallgoingdown.Thereisnomorechanceforus.Thegoldwilldousnogood!"

Oh,whatacommentthatisonthetrulyvaluelessnatureofricheswhenamandrawsneartoGod!"Richesprofitnot inthedayofwrath—butrighteousnessdelivers fromdeath."(Prov.11:4.)Thinkofyourfolly—yourfollyaswellasyourdanger,yourfollyaswellasyourguilt—ifyouwillcleavetoyoursins.Thinkofyourfolly,ifyouwillnothear thewarningwhichIgiveyou thisday. InmyMaster'sname, I say toyouoncemore, "Except you repent," you, even you who are reading this paper, "you shalllikewiseperish!"

(2)MysecondwordofapplicationshallbeanINVITATIONtoallwhofeeltheirsinsanddesiretorepent,andyetknownotwhattodo.Igiveitbroadlyandfullytoallwhoaskme, "What shall I do, this very day, if I am to take your advice?" I answer thatquestionwithoutanyhesitation.Isaytoyou, inmyMaster'sname,Repent,Repent,Repentthisveryday.Repentwithoutdelay.

Ifeelnodifficultyinsayingthis.Icannotagreewiththosewhosaythatunconvertedpeopleshouldnotbetoldtorepentorpray.I findtheApostlePetersayingtoSimonMagus,"Repentofthisyourwickedness."Ifindhimsaying,"praytotheLordthattheintentofyourheartmaybeforgivenyou."(Acts8:22.)Iamcontentto followintheApostle's wake. I say the same to everyone who is anxious about his soul. I say,Repent,Repent,Repentwithout delay. The timewill soon comewhen youmust bedecided, if you evermean tobe.Whynot this veryday?Whynot tonight? Sermon-hearingcannotgoonforever.Goingtochurchesandchapelsmusthaveanend.Likingthisministerandlikingthatminister,belongingtothischurchandbelongingtothatchapel,holdingtheseviewsandholdingthoseviews,thinkingthispreachersoundandthatpreacherunsound,isnotenoughtosaveasoul.Amanmustactatlast,aswellasthink,ifhemeanstogotoheaven.Amanmustbreakofffromhissins,andfleetotheLordJesus,ifhedoesnotintendtobedamned.Amanmustcomeoutfromtheworld,andtakeupthecross.Amanmustbedecided,andrepent,andbelieve.Amanmustshowhiscolors,andbeontheLordJesusChrist'sside,ifhemeanstobesaved.Andwhynotbeginallthistoday?Oh,Repent,Repent,Repentwithoutdelay!

Doyouaskmeagainwhatyououghttodo?Go,Itellyou,andcrytotheLordJesusChrist thisveryday.GoandpouroutyourheartbeforeHim.Goand tellHimwhatyou are—and tell Him what you desire. Tell Him you are a sinner—He will not beashamedofyou.TellHimyouwanttobesaved—Hewillhearyou.TellHimyouareapoorweakcreature—Hewill listen to you.TellHimyoudonot knowwhat todoor

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howtorepent—HewillgiveyouHisgrace.HewillpouroutHisSpirituponyou.Hewillhearyou.Hewill grant yourprayer.Hewill save your soul.There is enough inChrist,andtospare,foralltheneedsofalltheworld,foralltheneedsofeveryheartthatis

unconverted,unsanctified,unbelieving,impenitent,andunrenewed.

"What is your hope?" said aman to a poorWelsh boy, who could not speakmuchEnglish,andwasfounddyinginaninnoneday."Whatisyourhopeaboutyoursoul?"Whatwashisreply?Heturnedtothequestioner,andsaidtohim,inbrokenEnglish,"JesusChristisplentyforeverybody!JesusChristisplentyforeverybody!"Therewasamineof truth in thosewords.Andwell said another—anavigatorwhodied in theLord,"Tellthemall,telleverymanyoumeet—Christisforeveryman!JesusChristisforeveryman!"GotothatSaviorthisday,andtellHimtheneedsofyoursoul.GotoHim,inthewordsofthatbeautifulhymnwhichsays—

"JustasIam—withoutoneplea,ButthatYourbloodwasshedforme,AndthatYoubidmecometoThee—OLambofGod,Icome!

"JustasIam—andwaitingnotToridmysoulofonedarkblot,ToYou,whosebloodcancleanseeachspot—OLambofGod,Icome!"

GototheLordJesusinthatspirit,andHewillreceiveyou.Hewillnotrefuseyou.Hewillnotdespiseyou.Hewillgrantyoupardon,peace,everlastinglife,andgiveyouthegraceoftheHolySpirit.

Doyouaskmewhetherthereisanythingelseyououghttodo?Yes!Ireply.Goandresolvetobreakofffromeveryknownsin.Letthosewhowillcallsuchadvicelegal—ItrustImaynevershrinkfromgivingit.Itnevercanberighttositstillinwickedness.ItnevercanbewrongtosaywithIsaiah, "Cease todoevil." (Isa.1:16.)Whateverbeyoursin,resolve,byGod'shelp,thattomorrowmorningyouwillriseanalteredman,andbreakofffromthatsin.Whetheritbedrinkingorswearing,orpassion,orlying,orcheating, or covetousness; whatever your sin and fault—determine, by God's grace,thatyouwillbreakoffimmediatelyfromit.Giveitupwithoutdelay,andturnfromit,byGod'shelp,fortherestofyourdays.Castitfromyou—itisaserpentthatwillbiteyou todeath.Throw it fromyou—it isuseless lumber; itwill sink the shipdown toperdition.Castawayyourbesettingsin—giveitup—turnfromit—breakitoff.ByGod'shelpresolvethatinthatrespectyouwillsinnomore.

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But I think it just possible that some reader of this volume may be ashamed ofrepentance.Idobeseechyoutocastawaysuchshameforever.Neverbeashamedofrepentance toward God. Of sin you might be ashamed. Of lying, swearing,drunkenness,gambling—of theseamanought tobeashamed.Butof repentance,ofprayer,offaithinChrist,ofseekingGod,ofcaringforthesoul—never,never,solongasyoulive,neverbeashamedofsuchthingsasthese.Iremember, longago,athingthatcameundermyownknowledge,whichgavemesomeideawhatthefearofmancando.Iwasattendingadyingman,whohadbeenasergeantintheGuards.Hehadruinedhishealthbydrinking liquor.Hehadbeenacareless, thoughtlessmanabouthissoul.Hetoldmeuponhisdeath-bed,thatwhenhefirstbegantoprayhewassoashamedofhiswifeknowingit,thatwhenhewentupstairstoprayhewouldtakehisshoesoffandcreepupinhisstockings,thathiswifemightnotbeawarehowhewasspendinghistime.Verily,Iamafraidtherearemanylikehim!Donotyoubeoneofthem.Whateveryouareashamedof,neverbeashamedofseekingGod.

But, I think it justpossible that somereaderof thisvolume is afraid to repent.Youthink you are so bad andunworthy thatChristwill not have you. I do beseech youoncemore,tocastawaysuchfearforever.Never,neverbeafraidtorepent.TheLordJesus Christ is very gracious. He will not break the bruised reed, nor quench thesmokingflax.FearnottodrawneartoHim.Thereisaconfessionalreadyforyou.Youneednonemadebyman.Thethroneofgraceisthetrueconfessional.ThereisaPriestreadyforyou.Youneednoordainedman,nopriest,nobishop,nominister,tostandbetweenyouandGod.TheLordJesus is the trueHighPriest.None is sowise, andnonesolovingasHe.NonebutHecangiveyouabsolution,andsendyouawaywithalight heart and in perfect peace. Oh, take the invitation I bring you. Fear nothing.Christisnotan"austereman."He"despisesnone."(Job36:5.)Arisethisday,andfleetoHim.GotoChristandrepentthisnightwithoutdelay.

(3)MylastwordofapplicationshallbeanEXHORTATION toallwhohaveknownwhatrepentanceisbyexperience.Iaddressittoallwhohave,byGod'sgrace,felttheirsins,sorrowedfortheirsins,confessedtheirsins,givenuptheirsins,andfoundpeacein the blood of Jesus Christ. What shall I say to you but this—Keep up yourrepentance!Keepupyourrepentance.Letitbeahabitofmindyouwatchovertothelastdayof your life. Let it be a fire younever allow toburn lowor to becomedull.Keepupyourrepentance,ifyoulovelife.

IdonotwantyoutomakeaChristofrepentance,ortoturnitintoabondageforyoursoul.Idonotbidyoutomeasurethedegreeofyourjustificationbyyourrepentance,or to suppose that your sins arenot forgiven because your repentance is imperfect.Justificationisonething,andrepentanceisanother.Youmustnotconfusethingsthatdiffer.Itisonlyfaiththatjustifies.ItisonlyfaiththatlaysholdofChrist.Butforallthat,keepajealouswatchoveryourrepentance.Keepitup—keepitup,andletnotthefireburn low.Wheneveryou findaslacknesscomingoveryoursoul—wheneveryou

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feel slow, anddull, andheavy, and cold, and careless about little sins—look to yourownheartthen,andtakeheedlestyoufall.Saytoyoursoul,"Oh,mysoul,whatareyoudoing?Haveyou forgottenDavid's fall?Haveyou forgottenPeter'sbacksliding?Have you forgotten David's subsequent misery? Have you forgotten Peter's tears?Awake,Omysoul,awakeoncemore.Heaponfuel,makethefireburnbright.Returnagain to yourGod, let your repentance oncemore be lively. Let your repentance berepentedoveragain."Alas,howfewarethehoursinaChristian'sbestdayswhenhedoesnot"makeworkforrepentance!"

Keepupyour repentanceuntil the lastdayofyour life.Therewill alwaysbe sins todeplore, and infirmities to confess. Take them daily to the Lord Jesus Christ, andobtainfromHimdailysuppliesofmercyandgrace.MakeconfessiondailytothegreatHighPriest,andreceivefromHimdailyabsolution.FeeddailyonthepassoverLamb.Butneverforgetthat itwastobeeatenwithbitterherbs."Sir,"saidayoungmantoPhilipHenry, "how longshouldamangoonrepenting?"WhatdidoldPhilipHenryreply?"Sir,Ihopetocarrymyrepentancetotheverygatesofheaven.EverydayIfindIamasinner,andeverydayIneedtorepent.Imeantocarrymyrepentance,byGod'shelp,uptotheverygatesofheaven."

Maythisbeourdivinity,yourdivinity,mydivinity;yourtheology,mytheology!MayrepentancetowardGodandfaithtowardourLordJesusChristbethetwogreatpillarsbeforethetempleofourreligion,thecorner-stonesinoursystemofChristianity!(2Chron.3:17.)Maythetwoneverbedisjoined!Maywe,whilewerepent,believe;andwhilewebelieve,repent!Andmayrepentanceandfaith,faithandrepentance—beeveruppermost,foremost,thechiefandprincipalarticles,inthecreedofoursouls!

Christ'sPowertoSave

"Heisabletosavetotheuttermost,thosewhodrawneartoGodthroughHim,sinceHealwayslivestomakeintercessionforthem."Hebrews7:25

There is one subject in religion about which we can never know too much. ThatsubjectisJesusChristtheLord.Thisisthemightysubjectwhichthetextthatheadsthispageunfolds,JesusChrist,andJesusChrist'sintercession.

Ihaveheardofabookentitled"TheStorywithoutanEnd."Iknownostorydeservingthat title so well as the everlasting Gospel—this is indeed and in truth the storywithout an end. There is an infinite "fullness" in Christ. There are in Him"unsearchable riches." There is in Him a "love which passes knowledge." He is an

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"unspeakablegift." (Col. 1:19;Eph.3:8;3:19;2Cor.9:15.)There isnoend toall thericheswhichare treasuredup inHim—inHisperson, inHiswork, inHisoffices, inHiswords, inHisdeeds, inHis life, inHisdeath, inHisresurrection. I takeuponlyonebranchofthegreatsubjectthisday.Iamgoingtoconsider the intercessionandpriestlyofficeofourLordJesusChrist.

Thereare threepointswhich Ipurpose toexamine inopening the textwhichheadsthispaper.

I.YouhavehereadescriptionofalltrueChristians—theyareapeoplewho"cometoGodbyChrist"

II.YouhavetheworkthatJesusChristisevercarryingonbehalfoftrueChristians—He"everlivestomakeintercessionforthem."

III. You have the comfortable conclusion built by Paul upon Christ's work ofintercession.Hesays,"HeisabletosavetotheuttermostthosewhodrawneartoGodthroughHim,sinceHealwayslivestomakeintercessionforthem."

I.You have, first, a description of all trueChristians. It ismost simple, mostbeautiful, andmost true.Great is the contrastbetween thedescription givenby theHolySpiritofaChristian,andthedescriptionwhichisgivenbyman!Withmanitisoftenenoughtosaythatsuchaone"goestochurch,"orthatsuchaone"belongstothisbodyofChristians,ortothat."ItisnotsowhentheHolySpiritdrawsthepicture.TheHolySpiritdescribesaChristianasaman"whocomesuntoGodbyChrist."

TrueChristianscomeuntoGod.TheyarenotasmanywhoturntheirbacksuponHim—who"gointoafarcountry,"liketheprodigalson,"whogoout,"likeCain,"fromthepresenceof theLord,"—whoare "alienated, strangers, and enemies in theirmindbywickedworks."(Coloss.1:21.)TheyarereconciledtoGodandfriendsofGod.Theyarenot as many, who dislike everything that belongs to God—His word, His day, Hisordinances,Hispeople,Hishouse.TheyloveallthatbelongstotheirMaster.TheveryfootprintsofHis stepsaredearunto them."Hisname isasointmentpoured forth."(Cant. 1:3.) They are not asmany,who are contentwith coming to church, orwithcomingtochapel,orwithcomingtotheLord'stable.Theygofurtherthanthat.They"comeuntoGod,"andincommunionwithGodtheylive.

But,more than this, trueChristians comeuntoGod in a certain peculiarway. TheycomeuntoGodbyChrist—pleadingnootherplea,mentioningnoothername,trustinginnoother righteousness, restingonnoother foundation than this—that Jesushaslived,Jesushasdied,Jesushasrisenagainfortheirsouls.

"Ithechiefofsinnersam,ButJesusdiedforme!"

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ThisisthewaybywhichthetrueChristiandrawsneartoGod.

ThewayofwhichIhavebeenspeakingisanOLDway.Itiswellnear6,000yearsold.Allwhohaveeverbeensavedhavedrawnnear toGodby thisway. "NomancomesuntotheFatherbutbyChrist."(John14:6.)

ItisaGOODway.Itiseasyfortheworldly-wisetosneeratandridiculeit.Butallthewitandwisdomofmanhasneverdevisedawaymoreperfect—moresuitable toourwants,andwhichwillbearmore thoroughly,all fairandreasonable investigation. Ithasbeento theJewastumbling-block; ithasbeento theGreek foolishness.Butallwhohaveknowntheirhearts,andunderstoodwhatGoddemands,havefoundthewaymadebyJesusChristagoodway,andawaywhichstandsthefullestexaminationthatcan be made as to its wisdom. Therein they find justice and mercy met together,righteousnessandpeacekissingoneanother—GodaholyGod, yet loving, kind, andmerciful—man knowing himself a poor, weak sinner, yet drawing near toGodwithboldness, having accesswith confidence, looking up intoHis facewithout fear, andseeingHiminChrist,hisFatherandhisFriend.

NotleastitisaTRIEDway.Thousandsandtensofthousandshavewalkedinit,andnot one of all that number has evermissed heaven. Apostles, prophets, patriarchs,martyrs, early fathers, reformers,puritans, people ofGod in every age, andof everypeople and tongue—holy people of our own day, people like Simeon, Bickersteth,Havelock—haveallwalkedinthisway.Theyhavehadtheirbattles to fightandtheirenemies to contendwith.Theyhavehad to carry the cross, andhave found lions intheirpath.Theyhavehadtowalk throughthevalleyof theshadowofdeath,and tocontendwith Apollyon. They have had to cross at last the cold dark river; but theyhavewalkedsafely through to theother side,andenteredwith joy into thecelestialcity.Andnowtheyareallwaitingforustowalkintheirsteps,tofollowthem,andtoshareintheirglory.

ThisisthewayIwanteveryreaderofthispapertowalkin.Iwantyouto"comeuntoGodbyJesusChrist."LettherebenomistakeastotheobjectwhichtrueministersoftheGospelhave in view.Wearenot set apartmerely toperforma certain roundofordinances—tosayprayers, tobaptize those thatarebaptized, tobury those thatareburied, tomarry those that aremarried.We are set apart for the grand purpose ofproclaiming the one true living way, and inviting you to walk in it. We want topersuadeyou,byGod'sblessing,towalkinthatway—thetriedway,thegoodway,theoldway—andtoknowthe"peacewhichpassesallunderstanding,"whichinthatwayaloneistobefound.

II. I pass on now to the second pointwhich I purpose to consider. The text whichheadsthispaperspeaksoftheworkwhichtheLordJesusChristiseverdoing

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onbehalfoftrueChristians.Iaskspecialattentiontothispoint.Itisoneofdeepimportancetoourpeace,andtotheestablishmentofoursoulsintheChristianfaith.

There is one great work which the Lord Jesus Christ has done and finishedcompletely.ThatworkistheworkofATONEMENT,sacrifice,andsubstitution.Itisthe work whichHe did whenHe "suffered for sin, the just for the unjust, that HemightbringusuntoGod."(1Pet.3:18.)Hesawusruinedbythefall—aworldofpoor,lost, shipwrecked sinners. He saw and He pitied us; and, in compliance with theeverlastingcounselsof theEternalTrinity,He camedown to theworld, to suffer inourstead,andtosaveus.Hedidnotsitinheavenpityingusfromadistance.Hedidnot stand upon the shore and see the wreck, and behold poor drowning sinnersstrugglinginvaintogettoshore.HeplungedintothewatersHimself!Hecamedowntothewreck,andtookpartwithusinourweaknessandinfirmity,becomingamantosaveoursouls.Asman,Heboreoursinsandcarriedourtransgressions.Asman,Heenduredall thatmancanendure,andwent througheverything inman'sexperience,sinonlyexcepted.AsmanHelived;asmanHewenttothecross;asmanHedied.AsmanHeshedHisblood,inorderthatHemightsaveus,poorshipwreckedsinners,andestablishacommunicationbetweenearthandheaven!AsmanHebecameacurseforus,inorderthatHemightbridgethegulf,andmakeawaybywhichyouandImightdrawneartoGodwithboldness,andhaveaccesstoGodwithoutfear.InallthisworkofChrist,remember,therewasinfinitemerit,becauseHewhodiditwasnotonlyman—but God. Let that never be forgotten! He who wrought out our redemption wasperfectman;butHeneverceasedforamomenttobeperfectGod.

ButthereisanothergreatworkwhichtheLordJesusChristisyetdoing.Thatworkisthe work of INTERCESSION. The first work of atonement He did once for all—nothing can be added to it; nothing can be taken away from it. It was a finished,perfectwork,whenChristofferedup thesacrificeupon thecross.Noothersacrificeneedbeoffered,beside the sacrificeoncemadeby theLambofGod,whenHe shedHisownbloodatCalvary.ButthesecondworkHeisevercarryingonattherighthandofGod,whereHemakes intercessionforHispeople.ThefirstworkHedidonearthwhenHedieduponthecross—thesecondworkHecarriesoninheaven,attherighthandofGodtheFather.ThefirstworkHedidforallmankind,andoffersthebenefitof it to all the world. The second work He carries on and accomplishes solely andentirely on behalf of His own elect, His people, His believing servants, and Hischildren.

HowdoesourLordJesusChristcarryon thiswork?Howshallwe comprehendandgraspwhatisthemeaningofChrist'sintercession?Wemustnotpryrashlyintothingsunseen.Wemustnot"rushinwhereangelsfeartotread."YetsomefaintideawecanobtainofthenatureofthatcontinualintercessionwhichChristeverlivestomakeonbehalfofHisbelievingpeople.

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OurLordJesusChristisdoingforHispeopletheworkwhichtheJewishhigh-priestofolddidonbehalfoftheIsraelites.Heisactingasthemanager,therepresentative,themediatorinallthingsbetweenHispeopleandGod.HeiseverpresentingontheirbehalfHisownperfect sacrifice, andHisall-sufficientmerit, beforeGod theFather.He is ever obtaining daily supplies of freshmercy and of fresh grace for His poor,weak servants, who need daily mercy for daily sins, and daily grace for dailynecessities.Heeverpraysforthem.AsHeprayedforSimonPeteruponearth,so,inacertainmysterious sense, I believeHe prays forHis people now.He presents theirnames before God the Father. He carries their names uponHis heart, the place oflove,anduponHisshoulder,theplaceofpower—asthehigh-priestcarriedthenamesof all the tribes of Israel, from the least to the greatest,when hewore his robes ofoffice. He presents their prayers before God. They go up before God the FathermingledwithChrist'sall-prevailingintercession,andsoareacceptableinGod'ssight.He lives, in one word, to be the friend, the advocate, the priest, the all-prevailingagent,ofallwhoareHismembershereuponearth.AstheirelderbrotherHeactsforthem;andallthattheirsoulsrequire,He,inthecourtofheaven,alwayslivestomakeintercessionforthem.

Doesany readerof thispaperneedaFRIEND?Insuch aworld as this, howmanyheartstherearewhichoughttorespondtothatappeal!Howmanytherearewhofeel,"Iamallalone!"Howmanyhavefoundoneidolbrokenafteranother,onestafffailingafter another, one fountain dried after another, as they have traveled through thewildernessofthisworld.Ifthereisonewhowantsafriend,letthatonebeholdattherighthandofGodanunfailingfriend,theLordJesusChrist.Letthatonereposehisachingheadandwearyheartuponthebosomofthatunfailingfriend,JesusChristtheLord. There is one living atGod's right hand ofmatchless tenderness. There is onewhoneverdies.Thereisonewhoneverfails,neverdisappoints,neverforsakes,neverchangesHismind,neverbreaksofffriendship.ThatOne,theLordJesus,Icommendtoallwhoneedafriend.Nooneinaworldlikethis,afallenworld,aworldwhichwefind more and more barren, it may be, every year we live—no one ever need befriendlesswhiletheLordJesusChristlivestointercedeattherighthandofGod.

DoesanyreaderofthispaperneedaPRIEST?Therecanbenotruereligionwithoutapriest,andnosavingChristianitywithoutaconfessional.Butwhois thetruepriest?Whereisthetrueconfessional?Thereisonlyonetruepriest—andthatisChristJesustheLord.There isonlyone real confessional—and that is the throneof gracewheretheLordJesuswaits to receive thosewhocome toHimtounburden theirhearts inHispresence.WecanfindnobetterpriestthanChrist.WeneednootherPriest.Whyneed we turn to any priest upon earth, while Jesus is sealed, anointed, appointed,ordained,andcommissionedbyGodtheFather,andhasaneareverreadytohear,andahearteverreadytofeelforthepoorsinfulsonsofmen?ThepriesthoodisHislawfulprerogative.Hehasassignedthatofficetonoother.WoebetoanyoneuponearthwhodarestorobChristofHisprerogative!Woebetothemanwhotakesuponhimselfthe

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officewhichChristholdsinHisownhands,andhasnevertransferredtoanyonebornofAdam,uponthefaceoftheglobe!

Let us never lose sight of this mighty truth of the Gospel—the intercession andpriestlyofficeofourLordandSaviorJesusChrist. Ibelievethata firmgraspof thistruth isonegreatsafeguardagainst theerrorsof theChurchofRome.Ibelievethatlosingsightofthisgreattruthisoneprincipalreasonwhysomanyhavefallenawayfrom the faith in some quarters, have forsaken the creed of their Protestantforefathers, and have gone back to the darkness of Rome. Once firmly establisheduponthismightytruth—thatwehaveonePriest,andaltar—thatwehaveanunfailing,never-dying,ever living Intercessor,whohas transferredHisoffice tonone—andweshallseethatweneedturnasidenowhereelse.Weneednothewforourselvesbrokencisternswhichcanholdnowater,whenwehaveintheLordJesusChristafountainoflivingwaters,ever flowingand free toall.Weneednotseekanyhumanpriestuponearth,whenwehaveadivinePriestlivingforusinheaven.

Let us beware of regarding the Lord Jesus Christ, only as one that is dead.Here, Ibelieve,manygreatlyerr.They thinkmuchofHisatoningdeath,and it is right thattheyshoulddoso.Butweoughtnottostopshortthere.WeoughttorememberthatHenotonlydiedandwenttothegrave—butthatHeroseagain,andascendeduponhigh, leadingcaptivitycaptive.Weought to remember thatHe isnowsittingon therighthandofGod,todoaworkasreal,astrue,asimportanttooursouls,astheworkwhichHedidwhenHeshedHisblood.Christlives,andisnotdead.Helivesas trulyasanyoneofourselves.Christseesus,hearsus,knowsus,andisactingasaPriestinheaven on behalf ofHis believing people. The thought ofHis lifeought to have asgreatandimportantaplaceinoursouls—asthethoughtofHisdeathuponthecross.

III.Iwillnowconsider,inthethirdplace,thecomfortableCONCLUSIONSthatthe Apostle builds upon the everlasting intercession of the Lord JesusChrist.We needmuch comfort and consolation in a world like this. It is no easymatterforamantocarrythecrossandreachheaven.Therearemanyenemiestobeencounteredandovercome.Wehaveoftentostandalone.Wehaveatthebesttimes,fewwithusandmanyagainstus.Weneedcordialsand"strongconsolation"tosustainand cheerus, and topreserveus from faintingon theway, aswe travel fromEgyptintoCanaan.TheApostleappearsdeeplyconsciousofallthisinthewordsheuses.Hesays, "He is able to save to theuttermost,"—to saveperfectly, to save completely, tosave eternally, "all who come unto God by Him, because He ever lives to makeintercessionforthem."

Imightsaymuchonthegloriousexpressionwhichisbeforeus.ButI forbear.Iwillonlypointoutafewofthethoughtswhichoughttoariseinourmindswhenwehearof Christ's ability to "save to the uttermost." I have not space to dwell on them atlength. I rather throw them out as suggestions to supply matter for the private

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meditationofeveryonewhoreadsthispaper.

(1) Let us think, for one thing, that Christ is able to save to the uttermost,notwithstandingtheFORMERSINSofanybeliever.Thoseoldsinsshallneverrise again, nor stand up to condemn the child of God. Forwhat says the Scripture,"Christhasnotentered intotheholyplacemadewithhands—but intoheaven itself,nowtoappearinthepresenceofGodforus."(Heb.9:24.)Christ,tousealegalphrase,is ever "putting in an appearance" in the court of heaven on behalf of those whobelieveinHim.Thereisnotayear,noramonth,noraday,noranhour,noraminute—but there isOne living in thepresence ofGod, to "make an appearance" there onbehalfofallthesaints.ChristiseverappearingbeforeGodtheFatheronbehalfofthemen andwomenwhobelieve inHim.His blood andHis sacrifice are ever inGod'ssight.Hiswork,Hisdeath,Hisintercession,arealwayssoundinginGodtheFather'sears.

Irememberreadingastory inancienthistorywhichmayhelp to illustrate the truthonwhichIamnowdwelling. It is thestoryofonewhowasput to trial foracapitalcharge,atAthens,shortlyafterthegreatbattleofMarathon.InthatfamousbattletheAthenianshadpreserved,bytheirvalor,libertyfortheirlittleState,againstthemightyarmiesof thePersians.Among thosewhohaddistinguished themselves greatly, thebrotheroftheprisonerwasone,andhadbeensorelywoundedinthefight.Themanwasputuponhistrial.Theevidenceagainsthimwasstrongandunanswerable—thereseemed no chance of the prisoner escaping condemnation. Suddenly there cameforwardonewhoaskedtobeheardonhisbehalf—Andwhowasthis?Itwashisownbrother.Whenhewasaskedwhatevidencehehadtogive,orwhatreasonhehadtoshowwhytheprisoneratthebaroughtnottobefoundguilty,hesimplylifteduphismutilated arms—nothing but stumps—the hands completely cut off, the woundedstumps alone remaining. He was recognized as the man who, at the battle ofMarathon, had done prodigies of valor, and in the service of the State had lost hishands.By thosewoundshehadhelped towin the victorywhichwas still ringing inAthenian ears. Those wounds were the only evidence he brought forward. Thosewoundsweretheonlypleaheadvancedwhyhisbrotherought tobe letgo free,andsentenceoughtnot tobepasseduponhim.And thestorystates that for thesake ofthose wounds—for the sake of all his brother had suffered—the prisoner wasacquitted.Thecasewasdismissedatonce,andtheprisonerobtainedhisliberty.

In likemannerthewoundsof theLordJesusChristareeverbeforeGodtheFather.Thenail-prints inHishandsandfeet—themarksof thespear inHisside—the thornmarksuponHisforehead—themarksofallthatHesufferedasaslainLamb,are,inacertain sense, ever beforeGod the Father in heaven.While Christ is in heaven thebeliever'soldsinswillneverriseinjudgmentagainsthim.Christlives,andthoseoldsinswillnotcondemnhim.Wehaveanever-living,ever-intercedingPriest.Christ isnotdeadbutalive.

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(2) Let us think again, that Christ is able to save to the uttermost,notwithstandingallthePRESENTWEAKNESSofHisbelievingpeople.Howgreatthatweaknessis,timewouldfailmetoshow.TherearemanyofGod'schildrenwhoknowtheirhearts'bitterness,whobewailwithstrongcryingandtearstheirshort-comings,theirunprofitableness,andthescantyfruittheybringforth.Butletustakecomfort in the words of John, "If any man sins, we have an advocate with theFather"—ever present with the Father, "Jesus Christ the righteous—and He is theatoningsacrifice foroursins." (1 John2:1.)Thoseweaknessesmaywellhumbleus.Those infirmitiesmaywellmakeuswalk softly before ourGod.Butwhile theLordJesusChrist lives, those infirmities need notmake us entirely despair.We have anever-living,ever-intercedingPriest.Christisnotdeadbutalive.

(3) Let us think again, that Jesus Christ is able to save to the uttermost,notwithstandingalltheTRIALSthatbelievershavetogothrough.Hearwhatthe Apostle Paul says to Timothy, "I suffer—nevertheless I am not ashamed, for IknowwhomIhavebelieved,andampersuadedthatHe isable tokeep thatwhich Ihave committed untoHim against that day." (2 Tim. 1:12.) So long as Jesus Christlives,thebelieverintheLordJesusChristmaybeassuredthatnoafflictionshallbeallowedtobreakofftheunionbetweenhimandhisrisenHead.Hemaysuffergreatlyandbesorelytried.ButwhileChristlivesheshallneverbeforsaken.Neitherpoverty,norsickness, nor bereavements, nor separations—shall ever separate Jesus andHisbelieving people.We have an ever-living, ever-interceding Priest. Christ is not deadbutalive.

(4) Let us think again, that Christ is able to save to the uttermost,notwithstandingallthePERSECUTIONSthatbelievershavetogothrough.SeewhatissaidofPaul,whenhemetwithmuchoppositionatCorinth.WearetoldthattheLordstoodbyhiminthenight,andsaid,"Don'tbeafraid,butspeakanddon'tbesilent;forIamwithyou,andnoonewillattackyoutoharmyou,forIhavemanypeopleinthiscity."

(Acts 18:9-10.) Remember what He said to Paul at a former time, before hisconversion, when He met him on the way to Damascus, "Saul, Saul, why do youpersecuteMe?"(Acts9:4.)Everyinjurydonetothebeliever, isaninjurydonetothelivingHead inheaven.Everypersecutionshowereddownupontheheadof thepoorchildofGodhere, isknown,felt,and,Imayaddwithallreverence,resented,byourGreatElderBrother,whoisever living tomake intercession forus.Christ lives,andthereforebelievers,thoughpersecuted,shallnotbedestroyed."InallthesethingswearemorethanconquerorsthroughHimwholovedus."(Rom.8:37.)Wehaveanever-living,ever-intercedingPriest.Christisnotdeadbutalive.

(5) Let us think again, that Christ is able to save to the uttermost,notwithstandingall theTEMPTATIONSof thedevil. Remember that famous

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passage in the Gospel of Luke, where our Lord, speaking to Peter, says, "Simon,Simon, behold Satan has desired to have you, that hemay sift you aswheat—but Ihaveprayedforyou,thatyourfaithfailnot."(Luke22:32.)Wemaysurelybelievethatintercession like that is still carried on. Thosewordswere spoken as an emblemofwhattheLordiseverdoingonbehalfofHisbelievingpeople.Satan,theprinceofthisworld,isever"walkingaboutasaroaringlionseekingwhomhemaydevour."(1Pet.5:8.)ButChristlives;and,blessedbeGod,whileChristlives,Satanshallnotbeabletoovercome the soul that believes on Him. We have an ever-living, ever-intercedingPriest.Christisnotdeadbutalive.

(6) Let us think again, that Christ is able to save to the uttermost,notwithstandingthestingofDEATH,andallthatdeathbringswithit.EvenDavidcouldsay,"ThoughIwalkthroughthevalleyoftheshadowofdeath,Iwillfearnoevil—forYouarewithme;YourrodandYourstafftheycomfortme."(Ps.23:4.)YetDavidsaw through a glass darkly, compared to a believingChristian. The hourmaycome when friends can do us nomore good, when faithful servants can no longerminister to our needs, when all that love, and kindness, and affection can do toalleviatepain,andmakethelastjourneyaseasyaspossible,cannolongerrenderanyservicetous.ButthenthethoughtthatChristlives—Christinterceding,Christcaringforus,Christat therighthandofGod forus—ought tocheerus.Thestingofdeathwill be taken away from themanwho leans upon a dying and also a living Savior.Christneverdies.ThroughfaithinthatlivingSaviorweshallhaveacompletevictory.Wehaveanever-living,ever-intercedingPriest.Christisnotdeadbutalive.

(7) Let us think, again, that Christ is able to save to the uttermost,notwithstanding the terrors of the JUDGMENT DAY. Mark how Paul restsupon this in the eighth chapter of the Epistle to the Romans—in that wonderfulconclusion to that wonderful chapter—a chapter unrivaled in the Word of God forprivilege, beginning with "no condemnation," and concluding with "no separation!"ObservehowhedwellsuponChrist'sintercessioninconnectionwiththejudgmentofthe lastday.Aftersaying, "Whoshall layanything to thechargeofGod'select? It isGodwhojustifies,"hegoeson,"Whoishewhocondemns?ItisChristwhodied,yesrather, who is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makesintercession for us." (Rom. 8:33, 34.) The thought of Christ's intercession, no lessthanHisdyingandrisingagain,wasonegroundof theApostlePaul's confidence inlooking forward to that great day. His strong consolation was the recollection of alivingChrist. That consolation is for us aswell as for Paul.Wehave an ever-living,ever-intercedingPriest.Christisnotdeadbutalive.

(8) Let us think, lastly, and above all, thatChrist isable save to theuttermostthroughout all ETERNITY. "I amHe," He says, "who lives, and was dead; and,behold,Iamaliveforevermore."(Rev.1:18.)Christ,therootofthebelieverneverdies—andthebranches,therefore,shallneverdie.Christbeing"raisedfromthedead,dies

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nomore;deathhasnomoredominionoverHim."(Rom.6:9.)Helives, thatallwhotrust inHimmay receive honor and glory to all eternity; andbecauseHe lives,Hisbelievingpeopleshallneverdie."BecauseIlive,"touseHisownwords,"youshalllivealso."(John14:19.)Wehaveanever-living,ever-intercedingPriest.Christisnotdeadbutalive.

WouldyouknowthesecretofthesecurityfortheperseveranceofGod'sownpeople?WouldyouknowwhyitisthatChrist'ssheepshallneverperish,andnoneshalleverpluckthemoutofHishand?Itisamiraculousthing.Whenyoulookatthebeliever'sheart, listen to thebeliever'sprayers,mark thebeliever's confessions,whenyouseehow a justmanmay fall, sometimes seven times—when you see, with all this, thebeliever's perseverance, it is a marvel indeed. To carry a candle in a stormy night,whenwindsandgustyblastsareblowingfromeveryquarter—tocarryitstillburning,steadily burning, along the street—this is a wonderful achievement. To go over astormy sea in a little boat—to mount billow after billow, and not see the wavesbreakingovertheboat,andoverturningit—this iswell-nearamiracle.Toseea littlechildtotteringalongthecrowdedstreet,achildsomethreeorfouryearsold—toseeittotteringonandmakingitswayinsafety,fromoneendofthetowntotheother—thisisamightymarvel.

But after all, what is this but the life, and history, and experience of every trueChristian?Thoughhefalls,herisesagain;thoughheiscastdown,heisnotdestroyed.Hegoesonfromonepositiontoanother,likethemoonuponastormynight,plungingfrom one cloud into another, yet by-and-by shining out again and walking inbrightness.What is the secret of it all? It is the continual intercession of amightyFriend at the right hand ofGod—a Friendwho never slumbers and never sleeps—aFriend who cares for the believer, morning, noon, and night. The intercession ofChrististhesecretoftheperseveranceoftheChristian.

We shall do well to study the words of the Apostle in the 5th chapter of Romans,"Muchmorethen,"hesays,"beingnowjustifiedbyHisblood,weshallbesavedfromwraththroughHim.Forif,whenwewereenemies,wewerereconciledtoGodbythedeathofHisSon,muchmore,beingreconciled,weshallbesavedbyHis life."Marktheconnection,"BeingalreadyjustifiedbyHisdeath,weshallbesaved"—andsavedbywhat?"ByHislife,"byHiseverlivingtomakeintercessionforus.(Rom.5:10.)

Wiseandbeautifulisthecomparisonmadebythatmasterofallegory,JohnBunyan,inthe"Pilgrim'sProgress."HetellsushowChristianwastakenintotheInterpreter'shouse,andhowtheInterpretershowedhimmany thingswonderfuland instructive.Inoneplacehetookhimintoaroomwheretherewasafireburning,andshowedhimone ever pouring water upon that fire, and yet the water did not quench the fire.Howevermuchwaterhepouredon,stillthefirewentonburningsteadily!Thensaidthe Interpreter, "Doyouknowwhat thismeans?"WhenChristiandidnot know,he

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tookhimbehindthefire,andshowedhimonepouringonoiloutofavessel.Thisoilfed the fire, andmade it burnmore fiercely,notwithstanding all thewater thatwaspoureduponit.ThentheInterpretertoldhimthatthiswasapictureofJesusChrist'sintercession.Thatfirewasthefireofgraceinthebeliever'sheart.Hewhopouredonthe water was the enemy of souls, was the devil. But He who poured on the oil,standingbehindthefire,wastheLordJesusChrist,whobycontinualintercessionandthesupplyofHisSpirit,secretlyandunseenbyman,keptaliveHisownworkinthebeliever'sheart,anddidnotallowSatanandallhisagentstogetavictoryoverHim.

Wouldyouknowthesecretofthebeliever'sboldnessinprayer?Itisamarvelhowamanthatfeelshissinsodeeplyasthebelieverdoes,canspeakwiththeconfidencethebelieverfrequentlydoes.Howonethatacknowledgesheis"wretched,miserable,poor,blind,naked," ruined, undone—whooftendoeswhathe oughtnot todo, and leavesundonewhatheoughttodo,andfindsnospiritualhealthinhim—howsuchaoneasthiscangobeforeGodwithconfidence,pourouthisheartbeforeHimfreely,askfromHim what he requires day after day and not feel afraid—this is wonderful indeed.What is the secret of it? It is the intercession of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,wherebythetrueChristianknowshisprayersaremadeacceptable,andreceivedinthecourtofheaven.What is thebeliever's prayer in itself?Apoor,weak thing, unfit toriseabove theground. Iknownothing it ismore like, thanabank-notewithout thesignatureat thebottom.What is thevalueof thatbank-notewithout thesignature?Nothingatall.Oncegetaveryfewletterstracedininkuponthebottomofthatbank-note, and that which was a piece of waste paper a few moments before, becomesworth,itmaybe,manyhundredpounds,throughthesignaturebeingattachedtoit.Soit is with the intercession of Christ.He signs, endorses, and presents the believer'spetitions; and through His all-prevailing intercession they are heard on high, andbringdownblessingsupontheChristian'ssoul.

Would you know the secret of daily comfort in all the toil, and business, anddistractionswehavetogothrough?Weallknowthattheywhohavetodoworkinanysecularcalling, find theworkoftentimesa soreburden to their souls.Oftentimes inthemorningtheyfeel,"HowcanIgetthroughthisdaywithoutadefiledconscience,withoutbeingsorely troubledand tempted to forgetmyGod?"Howshallamangetthroughthedaywithcomfort,fillhisofficeintheworld,dohisdutyinthepositiontowhichGodhascalledhim?LethimlayholdupontheintercessionofJesusChrist.Lethimgraspthegreatthought,thatChristnotmerelydiedforhim—butroseagain,andstilllivesforhim.

It is recorded of a Christian soldier, who died in the Commonwealth wars, that acommonprayerofhisbeforeleavinghistentwassomethingofthiskind,"Lord,Iamgoing thisday todo thedutywhereunto Iamcalled. Imaysometimes forgetYou. IcannothavemythoughtsatalltimesasfullyfixeduponYouasIwish.But,Lord,ifIthisdayforgetYou—mayYounotforgetme."Thisisthekindofthoughtwhichevery

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believer should lay hold upon who has much to do in the business of this world.Risingfromhisbedinthemorning,goingfromhisroomeverymorning, leavinghishouse every morning, let him bear in mind, "There is One living in heaven whointercedesforme,whileIamfollowingmylawfulcalling.AlthoughImaybeabsorbedin business, and obliged to give up all the powers ofmy poorweakmind to it, stilltherelivesOnewhoneverforgetsme."Hemaysay,astheoldsoldierdid,"Lord—ifIthisdayforgetYou—mayYounotforgetme."

Lastofall,wouldyouknow thesecretof comfort in looking forward to thatheavenwhereuntoeverybelieverdesirestogo?IbelievetherearefewchildrenofGodwhodonotsometimes feelanxious, troubled,andcastdown,whenthey thinkquietlyabouttheeternalhabitationtowardswhichtheyaretraveling.Thenatureofit,themannerof it, the employments of it, their own apparent unfitness for it—will sometimesperplextheirminds.Thesethoughtswillsometimescomeacrossthebeliever'smind,especiallyintimesofsickness,fillinghimwithheaviness,andmakinghisheartsink.NowIknownoremedyagainstthesethoughtstobecomparedtotherecollectionofthe continual intercession of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Christ is gone intoheaventobethe"forerunner"ofapeoplewhoaretofollowafterHim.Heisgone"topreparea place for them"—and the placewheretoHe goes is the placewheretoHispeoplearetogoby-and-by.Whentheygotheretheywillfindallthingsmadeready,aplace for everyone, and a fitting and proper place, too, through the intercession oftheirLordandSavior.

There never will be a time when their company will not be liked in heaven. Thereneverwillbeatimewhentheiroldsins—thesinsoftheiryouthandtheirbackslidings,theirwickednessbeforeconversion,theirprofligacy,itmaybe,beforethegraceofGodcame into theirhearts—thereneverwill be adaywhenall these sins shall comeupagainstthem,andmakethemfeelabashedandashamedinheaven.Christwillbe inthemidst.Christwillever intercedeforthem.WhereChrist is, thereHispeoplewillbe.WhereHe lives,His perfectmerit,His spotless righteousness, His intercession,willmakethemperfectinthesightofGodtheFather.Theywillstandinheaven,seeninChrist, clothed inChrist,membersofChrist, part ofChrist, and sowill possess afirmandsolidandeternaltitletotheeternaljoyswhichshallbehereafter.

Iwillnowconclude thispaperbya fewwordsofAPPLICATIONto all intowhosehands itmayfall.Myheart'sdesireandprayer toGod is that thewordsIhavebeenwritingmayyetbearfruit insomesouls. Inorder that theymaydoso, Ioffera fewwordsoffaithfulandaffectionateexhortation.

(1) I would offer counsel, first, to all who are anxious and troubledrespectingtheirsoul'ssalvation,andyetknownotwhattodo.Ifyouaresuchaperson,Ichargeyouandentreatyou,Ibeseechyouandinviteyou—tocomeintothewayofwhichIhavebeenspeakinginthispaper.IbeseechyoutocometoGodbythe

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oldand triedway—thewayof faith inJesusChrist.Drawnear toGod, pleading thenameofJesus.BeginthisverydaytocrymightilyuntoGod,inthenameofJesus,onbehalfofyoursoul.Don'tsaythatyouhaveanythingtopleadforyourself.Youhavenothing to plead. Your life, your thoughts, your ways—all alike condemn you. Saynothingaboutyourselfbutthis—thatyouareasinner,agreatsinner,aguiltysinner,acondemnedsinner;butbecauseyouareasinner,youturntoGod.CometoHiminthename of Jesus, saying, you have heard that through Jesus a sinnermay come nearHim.TellHimthatyouareasinner,agreatsinner,andanunworthyone.ButtellHimthat you come in the faith of His promises, in the confidence of His own Bibleinvitation; and in the name of Jesus, and for the sake of Jesus, and on account ofJesus—youasktobereceived,heard,pardoned,forgiven,andaccepted.TellHimthatyou wish to have your name—even that name of yours connected hitherto withworldliness, thoughtlessness, carelessness, and sin—added to the list of God's dearchildren.

WillyousaythatyouareafraidtocometoGod?Yourfearisneedless.Youshallnotbe cast out, if you will but come in the way of faith in Christ. Our God is not "anaustereman."OurFatherinheavenisfullofmercy,love,andgrace.Iyieldtononeindesiretoexaltthelove,mercy,andtendernessofGodtheFather.Iwillneverconcede,for one moment, that what is called an evangelical ministry, will not magnify themercy,love,andcompassionofGodtheFatherasmuchasanyministryonearth.Weknow thatGod isholy.WeknowHe is just.Webelieve thatHe isangrywith thosewho go on still in sin. But we also believe that to those who draw near to Him inChristJesus,Heismostmerciful,mostloving,mosttender,andmostcompassionate.WetellyouthatthecrossofJesusChristwastheresultandconsequenceofthatlove.The cross was not the cause and reason of God's mercy—but the result andconsequenceoftheeverlastingloveofGodtheFather,GodtheSon,andGodtheHolySpirit,towardsapoor,lost,andbankruptworld.Drawnearinfaith,bythatlivingway,Christ Jesus, to the Father. Think not for a moment—the unworthy thought shallneverprove true—that sodrawingnear toGod theFatherbyChrist,God theFatherwillnotreceiveyou.Hewillreceiveyougladly.Asthefatherdidto theprodigalsonwhenherantomeethim—fellonhisneckandkissedhim,sowillGodtheFatherdotothatsoulwhodrawsneartoHiminthenameofChrist.

(2)Inthenextplace,Iwouldcheerthosereaderswhohavewalkedintheway of God, and yet are afraid of falling. Why should you be afraid? Whatshouldmakeyoufear?Whatshouldmakeyousupposethatyoushalleverbeallowedtofallaway,whileJesusChristlivesattherighthandofGodtomakeintercessionforyou? All the power of the Lord Jesus Christ is pledged upon your behalf. He hasundertakentocareforalltheflockthatGodtheFatherhascommittedintoHishand.Hewillcareforit.Hehascaredforit.Hewenttothecrossforit.Hediedforit.HeiseverattherighthandofGcd,andhasnotceasedtocareforit.Everymemberofthatflock—theweakest,thefeeblestsheeporlamb—isequallydeartotheLordandSavior,

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andnoneshallpluckthe leastofChrist'ssheepoutofGod'shand.Canyoustopthetidesofthesea,andmakethemnotriseatyourcommand?Canyoumakethewatersstopwhenthetidebeginstocome?Canyoupreventthesuninheavengoingdowninthewest, or prevent the same sun from rising tomorrowmorning in the east? Youcannotdoit—thesethingsareimpossible.Andallthepowerofdevils,allthepoweroftheworld,andall theenemiesof theChristian,shallnotbeable topluckoutof thehandofJesusChristonesinglesoulwhohasbeenbroughtbytheSpirit'steachingtotrue unionwith Christ, and forwhom Jesus Christ intercedes. The days of Christ'sweaknesshavepassedaway.Hewas"crucifiedthroughweakness,"andwasweakonouraccountwhenHewentto thecross. (2Cor.13:4.)ThedaysofHisweaknessareover—thedaysofHispowerhavebegun.PilateshallnomorecondemnHim—HeshallcometocondemnPilate.Allpower isHis inheavenandearth,andall thatpower isengagedonbehalfofHisbelievingpeople.

(3)Finally,letmegladdenallbelieverswhoreadthispaper,byremindingthemthatChristisyettocomeagain.TheGreatHighPriestisyettocomeforthfromtheHolyofHolies,toblessallthepeoplewhohavebelievedonHim.OnepartofHisworkHedidwhenHediedupon the cross; anotherpart ofHisworkHe is stilldoing—interceding forusatGod's righthand.But the thirdpartof theHighPriest'sofficeremainsyettobedone.HehasyettocomeforthfromtheHolyofHolies,asthehigh-priestdiduponthedayofatonement—tocomeforthfromwithintheveiltoblessthepeople.ThatpartofChrist'sworkisyettocome.Heisnowgoneintoheavenitself—He is within theHoly ofHolies—He is gone behind the veil. But our GreatHighPriest—a greater one than Aaron—shall yet come forth one day. He shall come inpowerandgreatglory.He shall comeasHe left theworld,whenHewentup in thecloudsofheaven.Heshall cometogather fromthenorthand fromthesouth, fromtheeastand fromthewest,allwhohave lovedHisnameandconfessedHim beforepeople,allwhohaveheardHisvoiceandfollowedHim.Heshallgatherthemtogetherintoonehappycompany.Thereshallbenomoreweakness,andnomoresorrow,nomoreparting,andnomoreseparation,nomoresickness,andnomoredeath,nomoredisputing,andnomorecontroversy,nomore fightingwith theworld, the flesh, anddevil.And,best of all, nomore sin.Thatday shall be ahappyday indeed,when theHighPriestcomesforthtodothethird,last,andcompletingpartofHiswork—toblessHisbelievingpeople."Hewhotestifiesthesethingssays,SurelyIcomequickly.Amen.Evenso,come,LordJesus!"(Rev.22:20.)

Election

"Knowing,brethrenbeloved,yourelectionofGod."1Thes.1:4

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"Givediligencetomakeyourcallingandelectionsure."2Peter1:10.

Thetextswhichheadthispagecontainawordofpeculiarinterest.Itisawordwhichisofteninmen'sminds,andanmen'stongues,fromoneendofGreatBritaintotheother.Thatwordis"Election."

There are few Englishmen who do not know something of a general election toParliament.Manyaretheevilswhichcometothesurfaceatsuchatime.Badpassionsarecalledout.Oldquarrelsaredugup,andnewonesareplanted.Promisesaremade,likepie-crust, only tobebroken.False profession, lying, drunkenness, intimidation,oppression, flattery, abound on every side. At no time perhaps does human naturemakesuchapoorexhibitionofitselfasatageneralelection!

YetitisonlyfairtolookatallsidesofanelectiontoParliament.Thereisnothingnew,orpeculiarlyEnglish,aboutitsevils.Ineveryage,andineverypartoftheworld,theheartofmanisprettymuchthesame.Therehaveneverbeenwantingpeoplereadytopersuadeothersthattheyarenotsowellgovernedastheyoughttobe,andthattheythemselvesarethefittestrulersthatcanbefound.AthousandyearsbeforeChristwasbornthefollowingpicturewasdrawnbytheunerringhandoftheHolySpirit—Afterthis,Absalomgothimselfachariot,horses,and50mentorunbeforehim.Hewould get up early and stand beside the road leading to the city gate. Wheneveranyonehadagrievancetobringbeforethekingforsettlement,Absalomcalledouttohimandasked,"Whatcityareyoufrom?"Ifhereplied,"YourservantisfromoneofthetribesofIsrael,"Absalomsaidtohim,"Look,yourclaimsaregoodandright,butthekingdoesnothave anyone to listen to you."He added, "If only someonewouldappointmejudgeintheland.Thenanyonewhohadagrievanceordisputecouldcometome,andIwouldmakesurehereceivedjustice."Whenapersonapproachedtobowdown to him, Absalom reached out his hand, took hold of him, and kissed him.Absalom did this to all the Israelites who came to the king for a settlement. SoAbsalomstoletheheartsofthemenofIsrael.(2Samuel15:1-6)

Whenwereadthispassagewemustlearnnottojudgeourowntimestooharshly.Theevilsthatweseeareneitherpeculiarnornew.

Afterall,wemustneverforgetthatpopularelection,withallitsevils,isfarbetterthanadictatorial formof government.To live under thedominionof an absolute tyrant,who allows no one to think, speak, or act for himself, ismiserable slavery. For thesake of liberty we must put up with all the evils which accompany the return ofmembers to Parliament. We must each do our duty conscientiously, and learn toexpect little fromanyparty. If thosewesupportsucceed,wemustnot think thatalltheydowillberight.Ifthoseweopposesucceed,wemustnotthinkthatall theydowill bewrong. Toexpect little fromanyearthly ruler is one great secret ofcontentment. Topray for allwho are in authority, and to judge all their

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actionscharitably,isoneoftheprincipaldutiesofaChristian.

ButthereisanotherElection,whichisoffarhigherimportance thananyelection toParliament—an Election whose consequences will abide, when Queen, Lords, andCommonshavepassedaway,anElectionwhichconcernsallclasses,thelowestaswellasthehighest,thewomenaswellasthemen.ItistheElectionwhichtheScripturescall"theElectionofGod."

Iaskthereadersofthispapertogivemetheirattentionforafewminutes,whileItryto set before them the subject of this Election. Believe me, it affects your eternalhappinessmostdeeply.Whether you are in Parliament or not,whether you vote ornot, whether you are on the winning side or not, all this will matter very little ahundred years hence. But it will matter greatly whether you are in the number of"God'sElect."

InhandlingthesubjectofElection,thereareonlytwothingswhichIproposetodo.

Firstly,IwillstatethedoctrineofElection,andshowwhatitis.

Secondly,Iwillfencethesubjectwithcautions,andguarditagainstabuse.

IfIcanmakethesetwopointsclearandplaintothemindofallwhoreadthesepages,IthinkIshallhavedonetheirsoulsagreatandessentialservice.

I.Ihave firstly tostatethedoctrineofElection.What is it?Whatdoes itmean?Accurate statements on this point are of great importance.No doctrine of Scriptureperhapshas suffered somuchdamage from the erroneous conceptions of foes, andtheincorrectdescriptionsoffriends,asthatwhichisnowbeforeus.

ThetruedoctrineofElectionIbelievetobeasfollows.Godhasbeenpleasedfromalleternity to choose certainmen and women out of mankind, whom by His counselsecret to us,He has decreed to save by Jesus Christ. None are finally saved exceptthosewhoarethuschosen.HencetheScripturegivestoGod'speopleinseveralplacesthenamesof "God'sElect,"and thechoiceorappointmentof themtoeternal life iscalled"God'selection."

ThosemenandwomenwhomGodhasbeenpleased tochoose fromalleternity,Hecallsintime,byHisSpiritworkingindueseason.Heconvincesthemofsin.Heleadsthem to Christ. He works in them repentance and faith. He converts, renews, andsanctifies them.He keeps thembyHis grace from falling away entirely, and finallybringsthemsafetoglory.InshortGod'seternalElectionisthefirstlinkinthatchainofasinner'ssalvationofwhichheavenlyglory is theend.Noneeverrepent,believe,andarebornagain, except theElect.Theprimaryandoriginal causeof salvation, isGod'seternalelection.

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The doctrine here stated, no doubt, is peculiarly deep, mysterious, and hard tounderstand.Wehavenoeyestoseeitfully.Wehavenolinetofathomitthoroughly.NopartoftheChristianreligionhasbeensomuchdisputed,rejected,andreviledasthis.Nonehas called forth somuch of that enmity againstGod,which is the grandmark of the carnal mind. Thousands of so-called Christians profess to believe theAtonement,salvationbygrace,andjustificationbyfaith,andyetrefusetolookatthedoctrineofElection.Theverymentionof theword tosomepeople isenoughtocallforthexpressionsofanger,ill-temper,andpassion.

But,afterall,isthedoctrineofElectionplainlystatedinScripture?ThisisthewholequestionwhichanhonestChristianhastodowith.IfitisnotintheBookofGod,letitbeforeverdiscarded,refused,andrejectedbyman,nomatterwhopropoundsit.Ifitisthere, let us receive it with reverence, as a part of Divine revelation, and humblybelieve,evenwherewearenotable tounderstandcompletelyorexplain fully.WhattheniswrittenintheScriptures?"Tothelawandtothetestimony—iftheyspeaknotaccording to this word, it is because there is no light in them." (Isaiah. 8:20.) IsElection in the Bible, or is it not? Does the Bible speak of certain people as God'sElect,ornot?

Hear what our Lord Jesus Christ says, "For the Elect's sake the days shall beshortened."(Matt.24:22.)

"IfitwerepossibletheyshoulddeceiveeventheElect."(Mark13:22.)

"HeshallsendHisangels,andtheyshallgathertogetherHisElect."(Matt.24:31.)

"ShallnotGodavengeHisownElect?"(Luke18:7.)

Hear what Paul says. "For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to beconformed to the image of his Son, in order that hemight be the firstborn amongmanybrothers.And thosewhomhepredestinedhe also called, and thosewhomhecalledhealsojustified,andthosewhomhejustifiedhealsoglorified."(Romans8:29-30)

"WhoshalllayanythingtothechargeofGod'sElect?"(Rom.8:33.)

"GodhaschosenusinHimbeforethefoundationoftheworld."(Ephes.1:4.)

"Whohassavedus,andcalleduswithanholycalling,notaccordingtoourworks—butaccordingtoHisownpurposeandgrace,whichwasgivenusinChristJesusbeforetheworldbegan."(2Tim.1:9.)

"God has from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of theSpiritandbeliefofthetruth."(2Thess.2:13.)

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Hear what Peter says, "Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father,through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood ofJesusChrist."(1Peter1:2.)

"GivediligencetomakeyourcallingandElectionsure."(2Peter1:10.)

Iplacetheseeleventextsbeforemyreaders,andIaskthemtoconsiderthemwell.Ifwordshaveanymeaningatall,theyappeartometoteachmostplainlythedoctrineofpersonal Election. In the face of such texts I dare not refuse to believe that it is aScriptural doctrine. I dare not, as an honest man, shut my eyes against the plain,obvioussenseofBiblelanguage.IfIoncebegantodoso,Ishouldhavenogroundtostandon in pressing theGospel on an unconvertedman. I could not expect him tobelieve one set of texts to be true, if I didnot believe another set. The eleven textsabove quoted seem to my mind to prove conclusively that personal Election is adoctrineofScripture.AssuchImustreceiveit,andImustbelieveit,howeverdifficultitmaybe.AssuchIaskmyreadersthisdaytolookatitcalmly,weighitseriously,andreceiveitasGod'struth.

Afterall,whateverpeoplemaypleasetosay,thereisnodenyingthatGod'sElectionofsome men and women to salvation is a simple matter of fact. That all professingChristiansarenot finallysaved—butonlysome—that thosewhoaresavedowetheirsalvationentirelytothefreegraceofGodandthecallingofHisSpirit—thatnomancan at all explainwhy some are called unto salvation and others are not called—allthesearethingswhichnoChristianwholooksaroundhimcanpretendforamomenttodeny.YetwhatdoesallthiscometobutthedoctrineofElection?

Right viewsofhumannatureare certain to leadus to the same conclusion.Onceadmitthatweareallnaturallydeadintrespassesandsins,andhavenopowertoturntoGod—onceadmitthatallspiritual life in theheartofmanmustbeginwithGod—onceadmitthatHewhocreatedtheworldbysaying,"Lettherebelight,"mustshineintoman'sheart,andcreatelightwithinhim,onceadmitthatGoddoesnotenlightenall professing Christians in this manner—but only some, and that He acts in thismatterentirelyasaSovereign,givingnoaccountofHismatters—onceadmitallthis,and then see where you are. Whether you know it or not, you admit the wholedoctrineofElection!

RightviewsofGod'snatureandcharacter,asrevealedintheBible,appeartometo bring us to the same position.Dowe believe thatGod knows all things from alleternity—thatHegovernsall thingsbyHis providence, and thatnot even a sparrowfallstothegroundwithoutHim?DowebelievethatHeworksallHisworksbyaplan,likeanarchitectofperfectknowledge,andthatnothingconcerningHissaints,asHischoicest andmost excellent work, is left to chance, accident, and luck?Well, if webelieveall this,webelieve thewholedoctrinewhich thispaper ismeant to support.

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ThisisthedoctrineofElection.

Nowwhat can be said in reply to these things?What are the principal weapons ofargumentwithwhichElectionisassailed?Letussee.

Some tell us that there is no such thing in Scripture as an Election of people andindividuals.SuchanElection,theysay,wouldbearbitrary,unjust,unfair,partial,andunkind.TheonlyElectiontheyadmitisoneofnations,churches,communities—suchasIsraelinancienttimes,andChristiannations,ascomparedtoheathennations, inourownday.Nowisthereanythinginthisobjectionthatwillstand?Ibelievethereisnothing at all. For one thing, the Election spoken of in Scripture is an Electionattended by the sanctifying influence of the Holy Spirit. This certainly is not theElection of nations. For another thing Paul himself draws a clear and sharply-cutdistinctionbetweenIsraelitselfandtheElect."Israelhasnotobtainedthatwhichheseeksfor;buttheElecthasobtainedit."(Rom.11:7.)Last,butnotleast,theadvocatesofthetheoryofnationalElectiongainnothingwhateverbyit.HowcantheyaccountforGodwithholdingtheknowledgeofChristianityfrom350millionChinesefor1800years,andyetspreadingitoverthecontinentofEurope?Theycannot,excepton thegroundofGod'ssovereignwillandHisfreeElection!Sothat,infact,theyaredriventotakeuptheverysamepositionwhichtheyblameus fordefending,anddenounceasarbitraryanduncharitable.

SometellusthatatanyrateElectionisnotthedoctrineoftheChurchofEngland.Itmay do very well for dissenters and presbyterians—but not for churchmen. "It is amerepieceofCalvinism,"theysay,"anextravagantnotionwhichcamefromGeneva,anddeservesnocreditamongthosewholovethePrayer-book."SuchpeoplewoulddowelltolookattheendoftheirPrayer-books,andtoreadtheThirty-nineArticles.Letthemturntothe17thArticle,andmarkthefollowingwords,"PredestinationtoLifeisthe everlasting purpose ofGod,whereby (before the foundations of theworldwerelaid)HehasconstantlydecreedbyHiscounselsecrettous,todeliverfromcurseanddamnationthosewhomHehaschoseninChristoutofmankind,andtobringthembyChrist to everlasting salvation, as vessels made to honor. Therefore, they who areenduedwithsoexcellentabenefitofGodarecalledaccordingtoGod'spurposebyHisSpiritworkingindueseason—theythroughgraceobeythecalling—theyare justifiedfreely—theyaremadesonsofGodbyadoption—theyaremadeliketheimageofHisonly-begotten Son JesusChrist—theywalk piously in goodworks, and at length, byGod'smercy,theyattaintoeverlastingfelicity."

IcommendthatArticletothespecialattentionofallEnglishChurchmen.Itisoneofthesheet-anchorsofsounddoctrineinthepresentday.Itnevercanbereconciledwithbaptismal regeneration!Awiser statement of the true doctrine of personal Electionwasneverpennedbythehandofuninspiredman.Itisthoroughlywell-balancedandjudiciouslyproportioned. In the faceof suchanArticle it is simply ridiculous to say

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thattheChurchofEnglanddoesnotholdthedoctrineofthispaper.

IncontrovertedmattersIdesiretospeakcourteouslyandcautiously.Iwishtomakeallowanceforthemanyvarietiesofmen'stemperaments,whichinsensiblyaffectourreligiousopinions,andforthelastingeffectofearlyprejudices.I freelyconcedethatWesley, Fletcher, and a whole army of excellent Methodists and Arminians, havealwaysdeniedElection, and thatmanydeny it to this day. I donot say that toholdElection is absolutely necessary to salvation, though to be one of God's Electundoubtedlyisnecessary.ButIcannotcallanymanmymasterintheologicalmatters.My own eyes see the doctrine of personal Election most clearly stated both inScriptureandthe17thArticleoftheChurchofEngland.Icannotgiveitup.IbelievefirmlythatitisanimportantpartofGod'struth,andonewhichtogodlypeopleis"fullofsweet,pleasant,andunspeakablecomfort."

II. The next thing that I wish to do is to fence the doctrine of Election withcautions,andtoguarditagainstabuse.

ThisisabranchofthesubjectwhichIholdtobeofvastimportance.Allrevealedtruthis liable to bewrested and perverted. It is one of Satan's chief devices tomake theGospelodiousbytemptingpeopletodistortit.PerhapsnopartofChristiantheologyhassufferedsomuchdamageinthiswayasthedoctrineofpersonalElection.LetmeproceedtoexplainwhatImean.

"IamnotoneofGod'sElect,"saysoneman."Itisnouseformetodoanythingatallinreligion.ItiswasteoftimeformetokeeptheSabbath,attendthepublicworshipofGod,readmyBible,saymyprayers.IfIamtobesaved,Ishallbesaved.IfIamtobelost,Ishallbelost.InthemeantimeIsitstillandwait."Thisisasorediseaseofsoul.ButIfearitisaverycommonone!

"IamoneofGod'sElect,"saysanotherman."Iamsuretobesavedandgotoheavenat last, no matter how I may live and go on. Exhortations to holiness—are legal.Recommendationstowatch,andcrucifyself—arebondage.ThoughIfall,Godseesnosininmeandlovesmeallthesame.ThoughIoftengivewaytotemptation,Godwillnotletmebealtogetherlost.Whereistheuseofdoubtsandfearsandanxieties?IamconfidentIamoneoftheElect,andassuchIshallbefoundinglory."Thisagain,isasoredisease.ButIfearitisnotaltogetheruncommon.

Nowwhat shall be said to people who talk in this way? They need to be told veryplainlythattheyarewrestingatruthoftheBibletotheirowndestruction,andturningfoodintopoison.TheyneedtoberemindedthattheirnotionofElectionisamiserablyunscripturalone.Electionaccording to theBible is a verydifferent thing fromwhatthey suppose it to be. It is most intimately connected with other truths of equalimportancewith itself, and from these truths itoughtnever tobe separated. Truths

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whichGodhasjoinedtogethernomanshouldeverdaretoputasunder.

(a) For one thing, the doctrine of Election was never meant to destroyman's responsibility for the state of his own soul. The Bible everywhereaddressespeopleasfreeagents,asbeingsaccountable toGod,andnotasmere logs,andbricks,andstones.Itisfalsetosaythatit isuselesstotellpeopletoceasetodoevil, to learn todowell, torepent, tobelieve, to turn toGod, topray.Everywhere inScriptureit isa leadingprinciplethatmancanlosehisownsoul, that ifhe is lostatlastitwillbehisownfault,andhisbloodwillbeonhisownhead.ThesameinspiredBiblewhich reveals this doctrine of Election is the Biblewhich contains thewords,"Whywill youdie,Ohouse of Israel?" "Youwill not comeuntoMe that youmighthave life." "This is the condemnation, that light is come into theworld, and peopleloved darkness rather than light, because their deedswere evil." (Ezek. 18:31; John5:40;3:19.)TheBibleneversaysthatsinnersmissheavenbecausetheyarenotElect—butbecause they "neglect thegreat salvation,"andbecause theywillnot repentandbelieve. The last judgment will abundantly prove that it is not the lack of God'sElection,somuchaslaziness,theloveofsin,unbelief,andunwillingnesstocometoChrist,whichruinsthesoulsthatarelost.

(b)Foranotherthing,thedoctrineofElectionwasnevermeanttopreventthefullest,freestofferofsalvationtoeverysinner.Inpreachingandtryingtodo good we are warranted and commanded to set an open door before everyman,woman, and child, and to invite everyone to come in.We know not who are God'sElect, and whomHemeans to call and convert. Our duty is to invite all. To everyunconvertedsoulwithoutexceptionweoughttosay,"Godlovesyou,andChristhasdiedforyou."Toeveryoneweoughttosay,"Awake—repent—believe—cometoChrist—be converted—turn—call upon God—strive to enter in—come, for all things areready." To tell us that none will hear and be saved except God's Elect, is quiteneedless.Weknowitverywell.Buttotellusthatonthataccountitisuselesstooffersalvationtoanyatall,issimplyabsurd.Whoarewethatweshouldpretendtoknowwhowill be found God's Elect at last? No! indeed. Those who now seem firstmayprove last, and those who seem last may prove first in the judgment day.We willinviteall,inthefirmbeliefthattheinvitationwilldogoodtosome.Wewillprophesytothedrybones,ifGodcommandsus.Wewillofferlifetoall,thoughmanyrejecttheoffer.InsodoingwebelievethatwewalkinthestepsofourMasterandHisApostles.

(c)Foranotherthing,Electioncanonlybeknownbyitsfruits.TheElectofGod canonlybediscerned from thosewho arenotElect by their faith and life.WecannotclimbupintothesecretofGod'seternalcounsels.Wecannotreadthebookoflife.ThefruitsoftheSpirit,seenandmanifestedinaman'sconversation,aretheonlygroundsonwhichwecanascertainthatheisoneofGod'sElect.WherethemarksofGod'sElectcanbeseen,there,andthereonly,haveweanywarrantforsaying"thisisoneoftheElect."HowdoIknowthatyondistantshiponthehorizonoftheseahas

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anypilotorsteersmanonboard?Icannotwiththebesttelescopediscernanythingbuthermastsandsails.YetIseehersteadilymovinginonedirection.Thatisenoughforme.Iknowbythisthatthereisaguidinghandonboard,thoughIcannotseeit.JustsoitiswithGod'sElection.Theeternaldecreewecannotpossiblysee.Buttheresultof thatdecree cannotbehid. ItwaswhenPaul remembered the faith andhopeandloveoftheThessalonians,thathecried,I"knowyourElectionofGod."(1Thess.1:4.)Foreverletusholdfastthisprincipleinconsideringthesubjectbeforeus.Totalkofanyone being Elect when he is living in sin, is nothing better thanblasphemousfolly.TheBibleknowsofnoElectionexceptthrough"sanctification;"noeternal choosingexcept thatwe shouldbe "holy;"nopredestination except to be"conformed to the image of God's Son."When these things are lacking, it is merewasteoftimetotalkofElection.(1Pet.1:2;Ephes.1:4;Rom.8:29.)

(d) Last—but not least, Election was never intended to prevent peoplemaking a diligent use of allmeans of grace. On the contrary, the neglect ofmeans is amost suspicious symptom, and shouldmake us very doubtful about thestate of a man's soul. Those whom the Holy Spirit draws He always draws to thewrittenWordofGodand toprayer.When there is the real grace ofGod in a heart,therewill always be love to themeans of grace.What says the Scripture? The veryChristiansatRometowhomPaulwroteaboutforeknowledgeandpredestination,arethe same to whom he says, "Continue instant in prayer." (Rom. 12:12.) The veryEphesianswhowere "chosen before the foundation of the world," are the same towhomit issaid,"PutonthewholearmorofGod—taketheswordof theSpirit—prayalways with all prayer." (Ephes. 6:18.) The very Thessalonianswhose Election Paulsaidhe"knew,"aretheChristianstowhomhecriesinthesameEpistle,"Praywithoutceasing."(1Thess.5:17.)TheveryChristianswhomPetercalls"ElectaccordingtotheforeknowledgeofGodtheFather,"arethesametowhomhesays,"Desirethesinceremilk of theWord—watch unto prayer." (1 Pet. 2:2; 4:7.) The evidence of texts liketheseissimplyunanswerableandoverwhelming.Ishallnotwastetimebymakinganycommentonthem.AnElectiontosalvationwhichteachespeopletodispensewiththeuseofallmeansofgrace,maypleaseignorantpeople,fanatics,andAntinomians.ButItakeleavetosaythatitisanElectionofwhichIcanfindnomentioninGod'sWord.

IknownotthatIcanwindupthispartofmysubjectbetterthanbyquotingthelatterpartoftheSeventeenthArticleoftheChurchofEngland.Icommendittothespecialattention of all my readers, and particularly the last paragraph. "As the godlyconsiderationofPredestination,andourElectioninChrist, is fullofsweet,pleasant,andunspeakablecomforttogodlypeople,andsuchasfeelinthemselvestheworkingoftheSpiritofChrist,mortifyingtheworksof theflesh,andtheirearthlymembers,anddrawinguptheirmindtohighandheavenlythings,aswellbecauseitdoesgreatlyestablishandconfirmtheirfaithofeternalSalvationtobeenjoyedthroughChrist,asbecause it does fervently kindle their love towards God—so, for curious and carnalpeople,lackingtheSpiritofChrist,tohavecontinuallybeforetheireyesthesentence

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ofGod'sPredestination,isamostdangerousdownfall,wherebytheDevildoesthrustthem either into desperation, or into wretchedness of most unclean living, no lessperilousthandesperation.

"Furthermore,wemustreceiveGod'spromisesinsuchwise,astheybegenerallysetforth to us in holy Scripture and, in our doings, that will of God is to be followedwhichwehaveexpresslydeclareduntousintheWordofGod."

Thesearewisewords.Thisissoundspeechthatcannotbecondemned.Foreverletuscling to the principle contained in this statement.Well would it have been for theChurchofChrist,ifthedoctrineofElectionhadalwaysbeenhandledinthisfashion.WellwoulditbeforallChristianswhofeelpuzzledbytheheightsanddepthsofthismightydoctrine, if theywould remember thewords of Scripture, "The secret thingsbelongunto theLordourGod—but thosewhichare revealedbelonguntous and toourchildrenforever,thatwemaydoallthewordsofthislaw."(Deut.29:29.)

I will now conclude the whole subject with a few plain words of personalAPPLICATION.

(1)Firstofall letmeentreat every readerof thispapernot to refuse thisdoctrineofElection,merelybecauseitishigh,mysterious,andhardtobeunderstood.Isitreverenttodoso?IsittreatingGod'sWordwiththerespectduetorevelation? Is it right to reject anythingwritten forour learning, and togive it hardnames,merelybecausesomemisguidedpeoplehavemisusedit,andturnedittoabadpurpose?Theseare seriousquestions.Theydeserve serious consideration. If peoplebegin rejecting a truth of Scripturemerely because they do not like it, they are onslipperyground.Thereisnosayinghowfartheymayfall.

WhatafteralldopeoplegainbyrefusingthedoctrineofElection?DoesthesystemofthosewhodenyElectionsaveonesoulmorethanthatofthosewhoholdit?Certainlynot.DothosewhoholdElectionnarrowthewaytoheaven,andmakesalvationmoredifficult than thosewhodeny it?Certainlynot.Theopponents ofElectionmaintainthatnonewillbesavedexcept thosewhorepentandbelieve.Well—theadvocatesofElectionsayjustthesame!TheopponentsofElectionproclaimloudlythatnonebutholypeoplegotoheaven.Well—theadvocatesofElectionproclaimthesamedoctrinejustasloudly!Whatthen,Iaskoncemore,isgainedbydenyingthetruthofElection?Ianswer,Nothingwhatever.Andyet,whilenothingisgained,agreatdealofcomfortseemstobelost.ItiscoldcomforttobetoldthatGodneverthoughtonmebeforeIrepentedandbelieved.Buttoknowandfeel thatGodhadpurposesofmercytowardmebeforethefoundationof theworld,andthatall theworkofgrace inmyheart istheresultofaneverlastingcovenantandaneternalElection,isathoughtfullofsweetandunspeakableconsolation.Awork thatwasplannedbefore the foundationof theworld, by an Architect of almighty power and perfect wisdom, is a workwhich will

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neverbeallowedtofailandbeoverthrown.

(2)Inthenextplace,letmeentreateveryreaderofthispapertoapproachthisdoctrineofElectionfromtherightend,andnottoconfusehismindbyinvertingtheorderoftruth.LethimbeginwiththefirstelementsofChristianity—withsimplerepentancetowardGod,andfaithtowardourLordJesusChrist,andsoworkhiswaytowardElection.LethimnotwastehistimebybeginningwithinquiriesabouthisownElection.LethimratherattendfirsttotheplainmarksofanElectman,andneverrestuntil thesemarksarehisown.Lethimbreakoff fromallknownsin,andfleetoChristforpardon,peace,mercy,andgrace.LethimcrymightilytoGodinprayer, and give the Lord no rest until he feels within him the real witness of theSpirit.HewhobeginsinthisfashionwillthankGodonedayforHiselectinggrace,ineternityifnotintime.Itisanoldandquaintsaying—butaverytrueone,"Amanmustfirst go to the littleGrammar-school of Repentance and Faith, before he enters thegreatUniversityofElectionandPredestination."

Theplaintruthis,thatGod'sschemeofsalvationislikealadderletdownfromheaventoearth,tobringtogethertheholyGod,andthesinfulcreature,man.Godisatthetopoftheladderandmanisatthebottom.Thetopoftheladderisfarabove,outofoursight,andwehavenoeyestoseeit.There,atthetopofthatladder,areGod'seternalpurposes—Hiseverlastingcovenant,HisElection,HispredestinationofapeopletobesavedbyChrist.Fromthetopofthatladdercomesdownthatfullandrichprovisionofmercyforsinners,whichisrevealedtousintheGospel.Thebottomofthatladderisclosetosinfulmanonearth,andconsistsofthesimplestepsofrepentanceandfaith.Bythemhemustbegintoclimbupwards.Inthehumbleuseofthemheshallmounthigher and higher every year, and get clearer glimpses of good things yet to come.Whatcanbemoreplainthanthedutyofusingthestepswhichareclosetoourhands?What can be more foolish than to say, I will not put my foot on the steps at thebottom,untilIclearlyunderstandthestepsatthetop?Awaywithsuchperverseandchildishreasonings!Commonsensealonemighttellusthepathofduty,ifwewouldonlymakeuse of it. Thatduty is touse simple truthshonestly, and then tobelievethathighertruthswillonedaybemadeplaintooureyes.How,andinwhatmannertheloveoftheeternalGodcomesdowntous,mayhavemuchaboutitwhichishardforpoorworms likeus tounderstand.Buthowwepoor sinnersare todrawnear toGod is clearandplain as the sunatnoonday. JesusChrist standsbeforeus, saying,"ComeuntoMe!"Letusnotwastetimeindoubting,quibbling,anddisputing.LetuscometoChristatonce,justasweare.Letuslayholdandbelieve!

(3) In the last place, let me entreat every true Christian who reads thispapertoremembertheexhortationofPeter,"Givediligence,tomakeyourcallingandElectionsure."(2Pet.1:10.)

Surer in the sight ofGod than yourElectionhasbeen fromall eternity, you cannot

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make it.WithHim there isnouncertainty.Nothing thatGoddoes forHispeople islefttochance,orliabletochange.ButsurerandmoreevidenttoyourselfandtotheChurch,yourElectioncanbemade;andthisisthepointthatIwishtopressonyourattention.Strive toobtain suchwell-groundedassuranceofhope that, as John says,youmay"knowthatyouknowChrist."(1John2:3.)StrivesotoliveandwalkinthisworldthatallmaytakeknowledgeofyouasoneofGod'schildren,andfeelnodoubtthatyouaregoingtoheaven.

Listennotforamomenttothosewhotellyouthatinthislifewecanneverbesureofourownspiritualstate,andmustalwaysbeindoubt.TheRomanCatholicssayso.Theignorantworldsaysso.Thedevilsaysso.ButtheBiblesaysnothingofthekind.ThereissuchathingasstrongassuranceofouracceptanceinChrist,andaChristianshouldnever rest until he has obtained it. That a man may be saved without this strongassurance I do not deny. But thatwithout it hemisses a great privilege, andmuchcomfort,Iamquitesure.

Strive, then,with all diligence, "tomake your calling and Election sure." "Lay asideeveryweightandthesinsthatmosteasilybesetyou."(Heb.12:2.)Bereadytocutoffthe righthandandpluckout the right eye, ifneedbe.Settle it firmly in yourmind,that it isthehighestprivilegeonthissidethegravetoknowthatyouareoneofthechildrenofGod.

Those who contend for place and office in this world are sure to be disappointed.Whentheyhavedoneallandsucceededtotheuttermost,theirhonorsarethoroughlyunsatisfying, and their rewards are short-lived. Seats in Parliament and places inCabinetsmustallbevacatedoneday.Atbesttheycanonlybeheldforafewyears.ButhewhoisoneofGod'sElecthasatreasurewhichcanneverbetakenfromhim,andaplacefromwhichhecanneverberemoved.BlessedisthatmanwhosetshisheartonthisElection.ThereisnoelectionliketheElectionofGod!

Perseverance

"Theyshallneverperish."John10:28

Therearetwopoints inreligiononwhichtheteachingof theBible isveryplainanddistinct. One of these points is the fearful danger of the ungodly; the other is theperfectsafetyoftherighteous.Oneisthehappinessofthosewhoareconverted;theotheristhemiseryofthosewhoareunconverted.Oneistheblessednessofbeinginthewaytoheaven;theotheristhewretchednessofbeinginthewaytohell.

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Ihold it tobeof theutmost importance that these twopoints should be constantlyimpressed on the minds of professing Christians. I believe that the exceedingprivileges of the children of God, and the deadly peril of the children of theworld,should be continually set forth in the clearest colors before the Church of Christ. IbelievethatthedifferencebetweenthemaninChrist,andthemannotinChrist,canneverbestatedtoostronglyandtoofully.Reserveonthissubjectisapositiveinjuryto the souls of people.Wherever such reserve is practiced, the careless will not bearoused, believers will not be established, and the cause of God will receive muchdamage.

Manypeople, I fear,arenotawarewhatavast storeof comfortable truths theBiblecontainsforthepeculiarbenefitofrealChristians.Thereisaspiritualtreasure-houseintheWordwhichmanyneverenter,andsomeeyeshavenotsomuchasseen.Thereyouwillfindmanyagoldenveritybesidestheoldfirstprinciplesofrepentance,faith,and conversion. There you will see in glorious array the everlasting election of thesaintsinChrist—thespeciallovewherewithGodlovedthembeforethefoundationoftheworld—theirmysticalunionwiththeirrisenHeadinheaven,andHisconsequentsympathywiththem—theirinterestintheperpetualintercessionofJesus,theirHighPriest—their liberty of daily communion with the Father and the Son, their fullassurance of hope—their perseverance to the end. These are some of the preciousthings laid up in Scripture for those who love God. These are truths which someneglect from ignorance. Like the Spaniards in the days when they possessedCalifornia,theyknownottherichminesbeneaththeirfeet,theminesfromwhichtheAmericans have extracted such untoldwealth. These are truthswhich someneglectfromfalsehumility.Theylookatthemafaroffwithfearandtrembling—butdarenottouchthem.ButthesearetruthswhichGodhasgivenforourlearning,andwhichweare bound to study. It is impossible to neglect them without inflicting injury uponourselves.

Itistoonespecialtruthinthelistofabeliever'sprivilegesthatInowdesiretodirectattention.Thattruthisthedoctrineofperseverance—thedoctrinethattrueChristiansshallneverperishorbe cast away. It is a truthwhich thenatural heart has bitterlyopposed in every age. It is a truth which for many reasons deserves particularattentionat thepresent time.Aboveall, it isa truthwithwhich thehappinessofallGod'schildrenismostcloselyconnected.

TherearefourthingswhichIproposetodoinconsideringthesubjectofperseverance.

I.Iwillexplainwhatthedoctrineofperseverancemeans.

II.IwillshowtheScripturalfoundationsonwhichthedoctrineisbuilt.

III.Iwillpointoutsomereasonswhymanyrejectthedoctrine.

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IV.Iwillmentionsomereasonswhythedoctrineisofgreatpracticalimportance.

Iapproachthesubjectwithdiffidence,becauseIknowitisoneonwhichholypeopledonotseealike.ButGodismywitness,thatinwritingthispaper,IhavenodesiretopromoteanycausebutthatofScripturaltruth.Inpleadingforperseverance,Icansaywithagoodconscience,thatIfirmlybelieveIampleadingforanimportantpartoftheGospelofChrist.MayGodtheSpiritguidebothwriterandreaderintoalltruth!Maythat blessedday soon comewhen all shall know theLordperfectly, and differencesanddivisionspassawayforever!

I.IwillfirstexplainwhatImeanbythedoctrineofperseverance.

Itisoftheutmostimportancetomakethispointclear.Itistheveryfoundationofthesubject.Itliesatthethresholdofthewholeargument.Inalldiscussionsofdisputedpointsintheology,itisimpossibletobetooaccurateindefiningterms.Halftheabusewhich has unhappily been poured on perseverance, has arisen from a thoroughmisunderstanding of the doctrine in question. Its adversaries have fought withphantomsoftheirowncreation,andspenttheirstrengthinbeatingtheair.

WhenIspeakofthedoctrineofperseverance,Imeanthis.IsaythattheBibleteachesthattruebelievers,realgenuineChristians,shallpersevereintheirreligiontotheendof their lives.They shall never perish.They shall never be lost. They shall never becastaway.OnceinChrist,theyshallalwaysbeinChrist.OncemadechildrenofGodbyadoptionandgrace,theyshallneverceasetobeHischildren,andbecomechildrenofthedevil.OnceenduedwiththegraceoftheSpirit,thatgraceshallneverbetakenfromthem.Oncepardonedandforgiven,theyshallneverbedeprivedoftheirpardon.OncejoinedtoChristbylivingfaith,theirunionshallneverbebrokenoff.OncecalledbyGodintothenarrowwaythatleadstolife,theyshallneverbeallowedtofall intohell.Inaword,everyman,woman,andchildonearthwhoreceivessavinggrace,shallsooneror laterreceiveeternalglory.Everysoulwho isonce justifiedandwashed inChrist's blood, shall at length be found safe at Christ's right hand in the day ofjudgment.

Suchstatementsas this sound tremendously strong. Iknow thatwell.But I amnotgoingto leavethesubjecthere—Imustdwellupon ita little longer. Idesire toclearthe doctrine I am defending from the cloud of misrepresentation by which manydarkenit.Iwantpeopletoseeitinitsownproperdress—notasitisportrayedbythehandofignoranceandprejudice—butasitissetforthintheScriptureoftruth.

(a) Perseverance is a doctrine with which the ungodly and worldly havenothing to do. It does not belong to that vast multitude who have neitherknowledge,nor thought,nor faith, nor fear, nor anything else ofChristianity exceptthename.Itisnottrueofthem,thattheywill"neverperish."Onthecontrary,except

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theyrepent,theywillcometoamiserableend.

(b)Perseverance isadoctrinewithwhichhypocritesand falseprofessorshavenothing to do. It does not belong to those unhappy people whose religionconsistsintalk,andwords,andaformofgodliness,whiletheirheartsaredestituteofthe grace of the Spirit. It is not true of them, that theywill "never perish." On thecontrary,excepttheyrepent,theywillbelostforever.

"Wedonothold that allwhom themostdiscerningminister orChristian considerstrueChristians,willbe 'keptby thepowerofGodthrough faithuntosalvation.'Godalone can search the heart, andHemay see that to be a dead and temporary faith,whichweinthejudgmentofcharitythinklivingandpermanent."—Scott

(c)Perseveranceisthepeculiarprivilegeofreal,truespiritualChristians.ItbelongstothesheepofChristwhohearHisvoiceandfollowHim.Itbelongstothosewhoare"washed,andjustified,andsanctifiedinthenameoftheLordJesus,andbytheSpiritofGod."(1Cor.6:11.)Itbelongstothosewhorepent,andbelieveinChrist,andliveholylives.Itbelongstothosewhohavebeenbornagain,andconverted,andmadenewcreaturesby theHolySpirit. Itbelongs to thosewhoareofabrokenandcontriteheart,andmindthethingsoftheSpirit,andbringforththefruitsoftheSpirit.Itbelongsto"theelectofGod,whocrytoHimnightandday."(Luke18:7.)Itbelongsto those who know the Lord Jesus by experience, and have faith, and hope, andcharity. Itbelongs to thosewhoare the fruit-bearingbranchesof thevine—thewisevirgins—thelightsof theworld—thesaltof theearth—theheirsof thekingdom—thefollowersoftheLamb.ThesearetheywhomtheBiblecalls"thesaints."Anditisthesaintsandthesaintsaloneofwhomitiswritten,thattheyshall"neverperish."

"ItisgrosslycontrarytothetruthoftheScripturestoimaginethattheywhoarethusrenewed,canbeunbornagain."—Leighton

DoesanyonesupposethatwhatIamsayingappliestononebuteminentsaints?Doesanyone think thatpeople like the apostles, andprophets, andmartyrs,mayperhapsperseveretotheend—butthatitcannotbesaidofthecommonsortofbelievers?Lethim know that he is entirely mistaken. Let him know that this privilege ofperseverancebelongstothewholefamilyofGod—totheyoungestaswellastheoldest—totheweakestaswellasthestrongest—tothebabesingraceaswellastotheoldestpillarsof theChurch.The least faithshallascertainlycontinue indestructibleas thegreatest.Theleastsparkofgraceshallproveasunquenchableasthemostburningandshining light. Your faith may be very feeble, your grace may be very weak, yourstrengthmaybeverysmall,youmayfeelthatinspiritual thingsyouarebutachild.Youmaydoubttherealityofyourownconversion.Yetfearnot,neitherbeafraid.Itisnotonthequantityofaman'sgrace—butonthetruthandgenuinenessofitthatthepromise turns.Abronze farthing is as truly a current coin of the realmas a golden

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sovereign,thoughitisnotsovaluable.Whereversinistrulyrepentedof,andChrististruly trusted, and holiness is truly followed—there is a work which shall never beoverthrown. It shall standwhen theearthandall theworks thereof shallbeburnedup.

There are yet some things to be said about perseverance, to which I must requestspecial attention.Without them theaccountof thedoctrinewouldbe imperfectandincomplete. The mention of them may clear up some of the difficulties whichsurroundthesubject,andthrowlightonsomepointsofChristianexperience,whichGod'schildrenfindhardtounderstand.

(a)Remember,then,thatwhenIsaybelieversshallperseveretotheend,Idonotforamomentsaythattheyshallneverfallintosin.Theymayfallsadly,foully,andshamefully,tothescandaloftruereligion,totheinjuryoftheirfamilies,totheir own deep and bitter sorrow.Noah once fell into drunkenness. Abraham twicesaid falsely that Sarah was only his sister. Lot took up his abode in Sodom. Jacobdeceived his father Isaac.Moses spoke unadvisedly with his lips. David committedhorrible adultery. Solomon lost his first love, andwas led away by hismanywives.JehoshaphatmadeaffinitywithAhab.HezekiahforgotGod,andboastedofhisriches.PeterdeniedhisLordthreetimeswithanoath.TheapostlesallforsookChristinthegarden. Paul andBarnabas had such a "sharp contention" that theywere obliged topart company. All these are cases in point. They are all melancholy proofs thatChristiansmayfall.

But believers shall never fall totally, finally, and completely. They shall always riseagain from their fallsby repentance, and renew theirwalkwithGod.Though sorelyhumbled and cast down, theynever entirely lose their grace. The comfort of it theymaylose—butnottheexistenceofgrace.Likethemoonunderaneclipse,theirlightisforaseason turned intodarkness;but theyarenot rejectedandcast away.Like thetreesinwinter,theymayshowneitherleavesnorfruitforatime;butthelifeisstillintheir roots. Theymay be overtaken by a fault, and carried away by temptation. Buttheyneverperish.

(b)Remember,foranotherthing,thatwhenIsaybelieversshallpersevereto theend, Idonotmeanthat theyshallhavenodoubtsand fearsabouttheir own safety. So far from this being the case, the holiest people of God aresometimessorelytroubledbyanxietiesabouttheirownspiritualcondition.Theyseesomuchweaknessintheirownhearts,andfindtheirpracticecomesoshortoftheirdesires, that theyarestrongly tempted todoubt the truthof theirowngrace, and tofancy theyarebuthypocrites, and shallnever reachheavenat all.Tobe safe is onething—to feel sure thatwe are safe is quite another. There aremany true believerswhoneverenjoythefullassuranceofhopealltheirdays.Theirfaithissoweak,andtheir sense of sin so strong, that they never feel confident of their own interest in

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Christ.ManyatimetheycouldsaywithDavid,"Ishallonedayperish"(1Sam.27:1);and with Job, "Where is my hope?" (Job 17:15.) The "joy and peace in believing,"whichsome feel, and the"witness of the Spirit,"which some experience—are thingswhich some believers, whose faith it is impossible to deny, never appear to attain.Called as they evidently are by the grace of God, they never seem to taste the fullcomfort of their calling. But still they are perfectly safe, though they themselvesrefusetoknowit.

"Morehappy—butnotmoresecure,Theglorifiedspiritsinheaven."

The full assurance of hope is not necessary to salvation. The absence of it is noargument against aman'sperseverance to the end.Thatmightymaster of theology,JohnBunyan,knewwellwhathewrote,whenhetoldusthatDespondencyandMuch-afraid got safe to the celestial city at last, aswell as Christiana andValiant-for-the-truthItisastrueofthemostdoubtingchildofGod,asitisofthestrongest,thatheshall"neverperish."Hemayneverfeelit.Butitistrue.

"Everybelieverdoesnotknowthatheisabeliever,andtherefore,hecannotknowalltheprivilegesthatbelongtobelievers."—Traill,1690.

(c)Remember,inthelastplace,thatthecertainperseveranceofbelieversdoes not free them from the necessity of watching, praying, and usingmeans,ormakeitneedlesstoply themwithpracticalexhortations.So farfrom this being the case, it is just by the use of means that God enables them tocontinueinthefaith.Hedrawsthemwiththe"cordsofaman."HeuseswarningsandconditionalpromisesaspartofthemachinerybywhichHeinsurestheirfinalsafety.Thevery fact that theydespised thehelpsandordinanceswhichGodhasappointed,would be a plain proof that they had no grace at all and were on the road todestruction.PaulhadaspecialrevelationfromGodbeforehisshipwreck,thatheandalltheship'scompanyshouldgetsafetoland.Butit isastrikingfactthathesaidtothesoldiers,"Excepttheshipmenabideintheshipyoucannotbesaved."(Acts27:31.)He knew that the end was insured—but he believed also that it was an end to bereached by the use of certain means. The cautions, and conditional promises, andadmonitions tobelievers,withwhichScripture abounds, are all apart of theDivineagencybywhichtheirperseveranceiseffected.Anoldwritersays,"theydonotimplythat the saints can fall away—but they are preservatives to keep them from fallingaway."Themanwho thinkshecandowithout such cautions, anddespises themaslegal,maywellbesuspectedasanimpostor,whosehearthasneveryetbeenrenewed.ThemanwhohasbeenreallytaughtbytheSpiritwillgenerallyhaveahumblesenseofhisownweakness,andbethankfulforanythingwhichcanquickenhisconscience,andkeephimonhisguard.Thosewhoperseveretotheendarenotdependentonanymeans—butstilltheyarenotindependentofthem.Theirfinalsalvationdoesnothang

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on their obedience to practical exhortations—but it is just in taking heed to suchexhortationsthattheywillalwayscontinuetotheend.Itisthediligent,thewatchful,the prayerful, and the humble, to whom belongs the promise, "They shall neverperish."

I have now given an account of what I mean when I speak of the doctrine ofperseverance.This,andthisonly,isthedoctrinethatIampreparedtodefendinthispaper. I ask people toweighwellwhat I have said, and to examine the statement Ihavemadeoneveryside.Ibelieveitwillstandinspection.

(a) It will not do to tell us that this doctrine of perseverance has anytendency to encourage careless andungodly living.Such a charge is utterlydestitute of truth. It cannot justly be brought forward. I have not a word to say inbehalfofanyonewho lives inwillfulsin,howeverhighhisprofessionmaybe.He isdeceivinghimself.Hehasalieinhishand.HehasnoneofthemarksofGod'select.The perseverance I plead for is not that of sinners—but of saints. It is not aperseveranceincarnalandungodlyways—butaperseveranceinthewayoffaithandgrace.Showmeamanwhodeliberatelylivesanunholylife,andyetboaststhatheisconvertedandshallneverperish, and I sayplainly that I seenothinghopeful abouthim.Hemayknowallmysteries,andspeakwiththetonguesofangels—but,solongashislifeisunaltered,heappearstomeinthehighroadtohell.

"Let none encourage themselves to a freedom in sin, and presume upon God'spreservationofthemwithouttheuseofmeans.No!Theelectingcounseluponwhichthisvictory is founded, choseus to themeansaswell as to theend.Hewhomakessucha consequence, Idoubtwhetherheeverwas aChristian. Imay safely say thatany person that has settled, resolved, and willful remissness, never yet was in thecovenantofGrace."—CharnockonWeakGrace.1684.

(b) Itwillnotdo to tellus that thisdoctrineofperseverance, ismerelyapieceofCalvinism.Nothingiseasierthantogetupaprejudiceagainstatruth,bycalling itabadname.Peopledealwithdoctrines theydonot like,muchasNerodidwhenhepersecuted theearlyChristians.Theydress themup inahideousgarment,andthenholdthemuptoscornandrunthemdown.Theperseveranceofthesaintsisoften treated in this manner. People stave it off by some sneering remark aboutCalvinism. Surely itwouldbemore fitting to inquirewhether perseverancewas nottaughtintheBiblefromthebeginning,andlongbeforeCalvinwasborn.Thequestiontobedecided isnotwhether thedoctrine isCalvinistic—butwhether it is scriptural.ThewordsofthefamousHorsleydeservetobewidelyknown."Takeespecialcare,"hesays,"beforeyouaimyourshaftsatCalvinism,thatyouknowwhatisCalvinismandwhat is not—that in themass of doctrinewhich it is of late become the fashion toabuseunderthenameofCalvinism,youcandistinguishwithcertaintybetweenthatpart of it which is nothing better than Calvinism, and that which belongs to our

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commonChristianityandthegeneralfaithofthereformedChurches—lest,whenyoumeanonlytofallfoulofCalvinismyoushouldunwarilyattacksomethingmoresacredandofahigherorigin."

(c)Last—butnotleast,itwillnotdototellusthatperseveranceisnotthedoctrineoftheChurchofEngland.Whateverpeoplemaypleasetosayagainstit,thisisanassertion,atanyrate,whichtheywillfindithardtoprove.Perseverance istaught in the seventeenth Article of the Church of England, clearly, plainly,unmistakably.ItwasthedoctrineofthefirstfiveArchbishopsofCanterbury,Parker,Grindal,Whitgift,Bancroft,andAbbott.ItwasthedoctrinepreachedbythejudiciousHooker,asanyonemayseebyreadinghissermons.*

ItwasthedoctrinewhichalltheleadingdivinesoftheChurchofEnglandmaintaineduntil the reign of Charles the First. The denial of the doctrine up to this time washardlytolerated.Morethanoneministerwhocalled it inquestionwascompelledtoreadapublicrecantationbeforetheUniversityofCambridge.Inshort,untilthetimewhenArchbishopLaudcameintopower,perseverancewasregardedintheChurchofEngland as an acknowledged truth of the Gospel. Together with the Popish leavenwhichLaud broughtwith him, there came the unhappy doctrine that true believersmay fall away andperish. This is simplematter of history. The perseverance of thesaintsistheolddoctrineoftheChurchofEngland.Thedenialofitisthenew.

Itistimetoleavethisbranchofthesubjectandpasson.Ineednoclearerandmoredistinct statementofperseverance than that contained in theSeventeenthArticleofmy own Church, to which I have already referred. The Article says of God's elect,"thosewhoareenduedwithsoexcellentabenefitofGod,becalledaccordingtoGod'spurposebyHisSpiritworking indue season—they throughgraceobeyHis calling—theyarejustifiedfreely—theyaremadesonsofGodbyadoption—theyaremadeliketheimageofHisonlybegottenSonJesusChrist—theywalkreligiouslyingoodworks,andat length,byGod'smercy,theyattaintoeverlastingfelicity."ThesearepreciselytheviewswhichImaintain.ThisisthedoctrinewhichI longagosubscribed.This isthe truthwhich I believe it ismy duty, as a clergyman, to defend. This is the truthwhichInowwantmyreaderstoreceiveandbelieve.

"Iwouldentreatanymanthathashiseyessetrightinhishead,toreadandconsiderthewordsoftheSeventeenthArticle, theorderandsoundnessofthem;andthenlethim judgewhetherperseveranceunto theendbenot soundlyandroundlysetdownandaverredinthisArticle."—GeorgeCarleton

II.InowproceedtoshowtheScripturalfoundationsonwhichthedoctrineofperseveranceisbuilt.IneedhardlysaythattheBibleistheonlytestbywhichthetruthofeveryreligiousdoctrinecanbetried.ThewordsoftheSixthArticleoftheChurchofEnglanddeservetobewritteninlettersofgold,"Whateverisnotreadinthe

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HolyScripture,normaybeproved thereby, isnot tobe requiredof anyman that itshouldbebelievedasanarticleofthefaith."BythatruleIamcontenttoabide.Iaskno one to believe the final perseverance of the saints, unless the doctrine can beprovedtobethatoftheWordofGod.OneplainverseofScriptureoutweighsthemostlogicalconclusionstowhichhumanreasoncanattain.

In bringing forward those texts of Scripture on which this paper is founded, IpurposelyabstainfromquotingfromtheOldTestament.Idoso,lestanyshouldsaythattheOldTestamentpromisesbelongexclusivelytotheJewishpeopleasanation,and are not available in a disputed question affecting individual believers. I do notadmitthesoundnessofthisargument—butIwillnotgiveanyonethechanceofusingit. I find proofs in abundance in the New Testament, and to them I shall confinemyself.

Ishallwritedownthetextswhichappeartometoprovefinalperseverance,withoutnote or comment. Iwill only askmy readers to observe howdeep and broad is thefoundation on which the doctrine rests. Observe that it is not for any strength orgoodnessoftheirown,thatthesaintsshallcontinuetotheend,andneverfallaway.They are in themselvesweak, and frail, and liable to fall like others. Their safety isbased on the promise ofGod,whichwas never yet broken—on the election ofGod,which cannotbe in vain—on thepowerof thegreatMediatorChrist Jesus,which isAlmighty—ontheinwardworkoftheHolySpirit,whichcannotbeoverthrown. Iaskyoutoreadthefollowingtextscarefully,andseewhetheritisnotso.

"Mysheephearmyvoice,andIknowthem,andtheyfollowme.Igivethemeternallife, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. MyFather,whohas given them tome, is greater than all, andno one is able to snatchthemoutoftheFather'shand.IandtheFatherareone."(John10:27-30)

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, orpersecution,orfamine,ornakedness,ordanger,orsword?Asitiswritten,"Foryoursakewearebeingkilledallthedaylong;weareregardedassheeptobeslaughtered."No,inallthesethingswearemorethanconquerorsthroughhimwholovedus.ForIam sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present northings to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation,willbeable toseparateus fromthe loveofGod inChristJesusourLord." (Romans8:35-39)

"They went out from us—but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, theywouldnodoubthavecontinuedwithus—buttheywentoutthattheymightbemademanifestthattheywerenotallofus."(1John2:19.)

"Verily,verily,Isayuntoyou,Hewhohearsmyword,andbelievesonHimwhosent

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Me, has everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed fromdeathuntolife."(John5:24.)

"Iamthelivingbreadwhocamedownfromheaven;ifanymaneatofthisbread,heshallliveforever."(John6:51.)

"BecauseIlive,youshalllivealso."(John14:19.)

"WhoeverlivesandbelievesinMe,shallneverdie"(John11:26.)

"ByoneofferingHehasperfectedforeverthosewhoaresanctified."(Heb.10:14.)

"HewhodoesthewillofGodabidesforever."(1John2:17.)

"Sinshallnothavedominionoveryou."(Rom.6:14.)

"Whoshallalsoconfirmyoutotheend,thatyoumaybeblamelessinthedayofourLordJesusChrist."(1Cor.1:8.)

"Keptby thepowerofGod through faithunto salvation, ready tobe revealed in thelasttime."(1Peter1:5.)

"PreservedinJesusChrist,andcalled."(Jude1.)

"The Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto Hisheavenlykingdom."(2Tim.4:18.)

"I prayGod yourwhole spirit, and soul, and body be preserved blameless unto thecomingofourLordJesusChrist.FaithfulisHewhocallsyou,whoalsowilldoit."(1Thess.5:23,24.)

"TheLordisfaithful,whoshallestablishyou,andkeepyoufromevil."(2Thess.3:3.)

"Godisfaithful,whowillnotallowyoutobetemptedabovethatyouareable;butwillwiththetemptationalsomakeawaytoescape,thatyoumaybeabletobearit"(1Cor.10:13.)

"God,willingmoreabundantlytoshowuntotheheirsofpromisetheimmutabilityofHiscounsel,confirmeditbyanoath;Thatbytwoimmutablethings, inwhichitwasimpossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled forrefugetolayholduponthehopesetbeforeus."(Heb.6:17,18.)

"This is the Father's will which has sentMe, that of all which He has given Me Ishouldlosenothing—butshouldraiseitupagainatthelastday."(John6:39.)

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"ThefoundationofGodstandssure,havingthisseal, theLordknowsthosewhoareHis."(2Tim.2:19.)

"WhomHedidpredestinate,themHealsocalled;andwhomHecalled,themHealsojustified;andwhomHejustified,themhealsoglorified."(Rom.8:30.)

"God has not appointed us unto wrath—but to obtain salvation by our Lord JesusChrist."(1These.5:9.)

"God has from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of theSpirit,andbeliefofthetruth."(2Thess.2:13.)

"Thevesselsofmercy,whichHehadaforeprepareduntoglory."(Rom.9:23.)

"ThegiftsandcallingofGodarewithoutrepentance."(Rom.11:29.)

"Ifitwerepossible,theyshalldeceivetheveryelect."(Matt24:24.)

"HeisabletosavetotheuttermostallthosewhocomeuntoGodbyHim,seeingHeeverlivestomakeintercessionforthem."(Heb.7:25.)

"Abletokeepyoufromfalling,andtopresentyoufaultlessbeforethepresenceofHisglorywithexceedingjoy."(Jude24.)

"IknowwhomIhavebelieved,andampersuadedthatHeisabletokeepthatwhichIhavecommitteduntoHimagainstthatday."(2Tim.1:12.)

"Ihaveprayedforyou,thatyourfaithfailnot."(Luke22:32.)

"HolyFather,keepthroughYourownnamethosewhomYouhavegivenMe." (John17:11.)

"I pray not that You should take them out of theworld—but that You should keepthemfromtheevil."(John17:15.)

"IwillthattheyalsowhomYouhavegivenMe,bewithMewhereIam."(John17:24.)

"If,whenwewereenemies,wewerereconciledtoGodbythedeathofHisSon;muchmore,beingreconciled,weshallbesavedbyHislife."(Rom.5:10.)

"TheSpiritoftruth;whomtheworldcannotreceive,becauseitseesHimnot,neitherknowsHim;butyouknowHim,forHedwellswithyou,andshallbe inyou." (John14:17.)

"Beingconfidentof thisvery thing, thatHewhohasbegunagoodwork inyou,will

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performituntilthedayofJesusChrist."(Phil.1:6.)

"TheanointingwhichyouhavereceivedofHimabidesinyou;andyouneednotthatanymanteachyou—butasthesameanointingteachesyouofallthings,andistruth,andnolie,andevenasithastaughtyou,youshallabideinHim."(1John2:27.)

"Bornagain,notofcorruptibleseed—butofincorruptible."(1Peter1:23.)

"Hehassaid,Iwillneverleaveyounorforsakeyou."(Heb.13:5.)

Ilaythesethirty-ninetextsofScripturebeforemyreaders,andaskseriousattentiontothem.IrepeatthatIwillmakenocommentonthem.IhadratherleavethemtothehonestcommonsenseofallwhoreadtheBible.Someofthesetexts,nodoubt,bringout the doctrine of final perseverance more clearly than others. About theinterpretationofsomeofthem,men'sjudgmentsmaydifferwidely.Buttherearenotafewofthethirty-ninewhichappeartomymindsoplain,thatwereItoinventwordstoconfirmmyviews,Iwoulddespairofinventinganythatwouldconveymymeaningsounmistakably.

I am far from saying that these texts are all the Scriptural evidence that might bebrought forward. I amsatisfied that thedoctrinemaintained in this papermight beconfirmedbyotherargumentsofgreatweightandpower.

(a)ImightpointtotheattributesofGod'scharacterrevealedintheBible,andshowhowHiswisdom,unchangeableness,andpower,and love, andgloryareallinvolvedintheperseveranceofthesaints.Iftheelectmayfinallyperish, what becomes of God's counsel about them in eternity, and His doings forthem in time? "Now if You shall kill all this people as oneman, then the nations,whichhaveheardthefameofYou,willspeak,saying,BecausetheLordwasnotabletobringthispeople intothelandwhichHeawareuntothem,thereforeHehasslaintheminthewilderness."Numbers14:15,16."WhatwillYoudotoYourgreatname"—Joshua 7:9. "If anyof the elect perish,God is overcomebyman's perverseness; butnone of them perish, because God, who is omnipotent, can by no means beovercome."—Augustine.

(b)ImightpointtoalltheofficeswhichtheLordJesusfills,andshowwhatdiscreditisthrownonHisdischargeofthem,ifanyofHisbelievingpeoplecanfinallybelost.WhatkindofHeadwouldHebe,ifanyofthemembersofHismysticalbody could be torn fromHim?What kind ofShepherdwouldHe be, if asinglesheepofHisflockwasleftbehindinthewilderness?WhatkindofPhysicianwouldHebe,ifanypatientunderHishandwereatlengthfoundincurable?Whatkindof High Priestwould He be, if any name once written on His heart were foundmissingwhenHemakesupHisjewels?WhatkindofHusbandwouldHebe, ifHe

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andanysoulonceunitedtoHimbyfaithwereeverputasunder?

"HowwelldotheyconsultforChrist'shonor,whosayHissheepmaydieinaditchoffinalapostasy!""ChristandHismembersmakeoneChrist.NowisitpossibleapieceofChristcanbefoundatlastburninginhell?CanChristbeacrippledChrist?Canthismemberdropoffandthat?HowcanChristpartwithHismysticalmembersandnotwithHisglory?"—Gurnall.1655.

(c)Finally,ImightpointtothegreatfactthatthereisnotasingleexampleinallScriptureofanyoneofGod'selecteverfinallymakingshipwreckandgoing to hell. We read of false prophets and hypocrites. We read of fruitlessbranches,stony-groundandthorny-groundhearers,virginswithoutoilintheirlamps,servants who bury their talents.We read of Balaam, and Lot's wife, and Saul, andJudasIscariot,andAnaniasandSapphira,andDemas.Weseetheirhollowcharacters.We are told of their end. They had no root. They were rotten at the heart. Theyendured for awhile. Theywent at last to their own place. But there is not a singleinstanceinthewholeBibleofanyonefallingawaywhoevershowedunquestionableevidencesofgrace.People likeAbraham,andMoses,andDavid,andPeter,andPaulalwaysholdon theirway.Theymayslip.Theymay fall foraseason.But theyneverentirelydepart fromGod.Theyneverperish. Surely if the saints ofGod canbe castaway, it is a curious and striking fact that the Bible should not have given us onesingleplainexampleofit.

But timeand spacewould failme if Iwere to enter into the fieldwhich Ihave justpointedout.IthinkitbettertorestmycaseonthetextswhichIhavealreadygiven.Themind towhich these texts carryno conviction, is not likely to be influencedbyother arguments.Tomyself they appear,when taken altogether, to contain such animmensemassofevidence,thatIdarenot,asaChristianman,denyperseverancetobetrue.Idarenot,becauseIfeelatthisrateImightdisputethetruthofanydoctrinein theGospel. I feel that if I couldexplainawaysuchplain textsas someof those Ihavequoted,IcouldexplainawayalmostalltheleadingtruthsofChristianity.

IamquiteawarethattherearesometextsandpassagesofScripturewhichappearatfirstsighttoteachacontrarydoctrinetothatwhichImaintaininthispaper.Iknowthat many attach great weight to these texts, and consider them to prove that thesaintsofGodmayperishandfallaway.IcanonlysaythatIhaveexaminedthesetextswithattention—buthavefoundinthemnoreasontoaltermyopiniononthesubjectofperseverance.Theirnumberissmall.Theirmeaningisunquestionablymoreopentodispute than that ofmany of the thirty-nine I have quoted.All of themadmit ofbeinginterpretedsoasnottocontradictthedoctrineofperseverance.Iholdittobeaninfallible rule in the exposition of Scripture, that when two texts seem tocontradictoneanother,thelessplainmustgivewaytothemoreplain,andtheweakmustgivewaytothestrong.Thatdoctrinewhichreconcilesmosttexts

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ofScripture ismost likely toberight.Thatdoctrinewhichmakesmost textsquarrelwithoneanotherismostlikelytobewrong.

The following texts, on which the opponents of perseverance principally rely,appeartocallforabriefnotice.

Ezek. 3:20 and Ezek 18:24. I can see no proof in either of these cases that "therighteous" here spoken of, is anything more than one whose outward conduct isrighteous. There is nothing to show that he is one justified by faith and accountedrighteousbeforeGod.

1Cor.9:27.Iseenothinginthisbutthegodlyfearoffallingintosin,whichisoneofthemarks of a believer, and distinguishes him from the unconverted, and a simpledeclarationofthemeanswhichPaulusedtopreservehimselffrombeingacast-away.Itislike1John5:18,"HewhoisbegottenofGodkeepshimself."

John15:2.ThisdoesnotprovethattruebelieversshallbetakenawayfromChrist.Abranchthat"doesnotbearfruit"isnotabeliever."Alivelyfaith,"saysthe12thArticle,"maybeasevidentlyknownbygoodworks,asatreeisknownbythefruit."

1Thess.5:19.If"theSpirit"heremeanstheSpiritinourselves,itmeansnomorethan"grievingtheSpirit,"inEp.4:30.ButmostgoodcommentatorsthinkitistheSpirit'sgiftsinothers,andoughttobetakeninconnectionwithverse20.

Gal.5:4.ThetenorofthewholeEpistleseemstoshowthatthis"falling"isnotfromthe inward grace of the Spirit—but from the doctrine of grace. The same remarksappliesto2Cor.6:1.

Heb.6:4-6.Thepersonheredescribedas"fallingaway"hasno characteristicswhichmaynot bediscovered inunconvertedpeople,while it is not said that hepossessessavingfaith,andcharity,andiselect.

John8:31;Col.1:23.Theconditional"if"inboththeseverses,andseveralotherslikethemthatmightbequoted,doesnotimplyanuncertaintyastothesalvationofthosedescribed.Itsimplymeansthattheevidenceofrealgraceis"continuance."Falsegraceperishes. True grace lasts. "It is frequent in Scripture," says Charnock, "to put intopromisestheseconditionswhichinotherplacesarepromisedtobewroughtinus."—CharnockonRealGrace.

Ireadilygrantthatthesearenotallthetextsthattheadversariesoffinalperseverancegenerallybring forward;but Ibelieve theyare theprincipalones.Theweakpoint intheircaseisthis—theyhavenotexttoprovethatsaintsmayfallaway,whichwillatallcomparewithsuchanexpressionas,"Mysheepshallneverperish;"andtheyhavenoaccount to giveof suchamighty saying as thispromiseof ourLord,which is at all

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satisfactory or even rational. John Goodwin, the famous Arminian, offers thefollowing explanation of this text, "The promise of eternal safetymade byChrist toHissheep,doesnotrelatetotheirestateinthepresentworld—buttothatoftheworldtocome!"Amanmustbesorelyputtostraitswhenhecanargueinsuchaway.

Iaskmyreaders,ifnotconvincedbyallIhavesaidhitherto,toputdownthetextsIhavequotedonbehalfofperseverance,andthetextscommonlyquotedagainst it, intwoseparatelists.Weighthemoneagainstanother.Judgethemwithfairandhonestjudgment. Which list contains the greatest number of positive, unmistakableassertions?Which list contains the greatest number of sentences which cannot beexplainedaway?Whichlist isthestrongest?Whichlist istheweakest?Whichlist isthemostflexible?Whichlististhemostunbending?Ifitwerepossibleinaworldlikethis tohave thisquestion fairly triedbyanunprejudiced, intelligent jury, Ihavenotthe least doubt which way the verdict would go. It is my own firm belief andconvictionthatthefinalperseveranceofthesaintsissodeeplyfoundedonScripturalfoundations,thatsolongastheBibleisthejudge,itcannotbeoverthrown.

III.ThethirdthingIproposetodo,istopointoutthereasonswhymanyreject thedoctrineofperseverance. It is impossible to deny thatmultitudes ofprofessingChristians entirely disagreewith the views expressed in this paper. I amquiteawarethatmanyregardthemwithabhorrence,asdangerous,enthusiastic,andfanatical, and lose no opportunity ofwarning people against them. I am also awarethatamongthosewhoholdthatthesaintsofGodmayfallawayandperish,aretobefound many holy, self-denying, spiritually-minded people—people at whose feet Iwouldgladlysitinheaven,thoughIcannotapproveofalltheirteachinguponearth.

This being the case, it becomes amatter of deep interest to find out, ifwe can, thereasonswhythedoctrineofperseveranceissooftenrefused.HowisitthatadoctrineforwhichsomuchScripturecanbealleged,shouldbestoutlyopposed?HowisitthatadoctrinewhichforthefirsthundredyearsoftheReformedChurchofEnglanditwashardlyallowabletocallinquestion,shouldnowbesofrequentlyrejected?Whatnewviewscanhaverisenupinthelasttwocenturieswhichmakeitnecessarytodischargethis good old servant of Christ? I am confident that such inquiries are of deepimportanceinthepresentday.Thereisfarmoreinthisquestionthanappearsatfirstsight.IamsatisfiedthatIamnotwastingtimeinendeavoringtothrowalittlelightonthewholesubject.

Idesire toclear thewaybyconceding thatmanygoodpeople refuse thedoctrineofperseverancefornoreasonwhatever,exceptthat it istoostrongforthem.Therearevast numbers of true-hearted Christians just now who never seem able to bearanything strong. Their religious constitution appears so feeble, and their spiritualdigestionsoweak,thattheymustalwaysbe"fedwithmilkandnotwithmeat."Talktothem strongly about grace, and theyput youdownas anAntinomian!Talk strongly

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about holiness, and you are thought legal! Speak strongly of election, and you areconsidered a narrow-minded Calvinist! Speak strongly about responsibility and freeagency, and you are regarded as a low Arminian! In short, they can bear nothingstrongofanykindor inanydirection!Ofcourse theycannotreceive thedoctrineofperseverance.

Ileavethesepeoplealone.Iamsorryforthem.TherearesadlytoomanyofthemintheChurchesofChristjustnow.Icanonlywishthembetterspiritualhealth,andlessnarrownessofviews,andaquickergrowthinspiritualknowledge.ThepeopleIhaveinmymind'seyeinthispartofmypaperareofadifferentclass,andtothemInowaddressmyself.

(1) I believe one reason why many do not hold perseverance, is their generalignoranceof thewholesystemofChristianity.Theyhave no clear idea of thenature,place,andproportionofthevariousdoctrineswhichcomposetheGospel.Itsseveral truths have no definite position in their minds. Its general outline is notmappedoutintheirunderstandings.TheyhaveavaguenotionthatitisarightthingtobelongtotheChurchofChrist,andtobelieveallthearticlesoftheChristianfaith.TheyhaveafloatingmistyideathatChristhasdonecertainthingsforthem,andthattheyoughttodocertainthingsforHim,andthatiftheydothemitwillbeallrightatlast—butbeyondthistheyreallyknownothing!OfthegreatsystematicstatementsintheEpistlestotheRomans,Galatians,andHebrews,theyareprofoundlyignorant.AstoaclearaccountofJustification,youmightaswellaskthemtosquarethecircle,ortowritealetterinSanscrit.Itisasubjecttheyhavenoteventouchedwiththetipsoftheirfingers.Thisisasoredisease,andonlytoocommoninEngland.Unhappilyitisthe disease of thousands who passmuster as excellent Churchmen. It is absurd toexpectsuchpeopletoholdperseverance.Whenamandoesnotknowwhatitistobejustified,hecannotofcourseunderstandwhatitistoperseveretotheend.

(2)Ibelieveanotherreasonwhymanydonotholdperseverance, is theirdisliketoany system of religion which draws distinctions between man and man.Therearenota fewwhoentirelydisapproveofanyChristian teachingwhichdividescongregations intodifferent classes, and speaks of one class of people as being in abetterandmorefavorablestatebeforeGodthananother.Suchpeoplecryout,that"allteachingofthiskindisuncharitable;"that"weoughttohopewellofeverybody,andsupposeeverybodywillgotoheaven."Theythinkitdownrightwrongtosaythatonemanhas faithandanotherhasnot,one isconvertedandanothernot,oneachildofGodandanother a child of thedevil, one a saint and another a sinner. "What righthave we to think anything about it?" they say. "We cannot possibly know. Thosewhomwecallgood,arevery likelynobetter thanothers—hypocrites, impostorsandthelike.Thoseofwhomwethinkbadlyareveryprobablyquiteasmuchinthewaytoheavenastherestofmankind,andhavegoodheartsatthebottom."

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Astoanyonefeelingsureofheaven,orconfidentofhisownsalvation,theyconsideritquiteabominable."Nomancanbesure.Weoughttohopewellofall."Thereareonlytoomanypeopleofthissortinthepresentday.Ofcoursethedoctrineofperseveranceisperfectlyintolerabletothem.Whenamanrefusestoallowthatanyoneiselect,orhasgrace,orenjoysanyspecialmarkofGod'sfavormorethanhisneighbors,itstandstoreasonthathewilldenythatanyonecanhavethegraceofperseverance.

(3) I believe another common reason why many do not hold perseverance, is anincorrectviewofthenatureofsavingfaith.Theyregardfaithasnothingbetterthanafeelingorimpression.AssoonastheyseeamansomewhatimpressedwiththepreachingoftheGospel,andmanifestingsomepleasureinhearingaboutChrist,theysethimdownatonceasabeliever.Byandbytheman'simpressionswearaway,andhisinterestaboutChristandsalvationceasesaltogether.Whereisthefaithheseemedtohave?Itisgone.Howcanhisfriends,whohadpronouncedhimabeliever,accountforit?Theycanonlyaccountforitbysaying,that"amanmayfallaway fromfaith,"and that "there is no such thing as perseverance." And, in short, this becomes anestablishedprincipleintheirreligion.

Nowthisisamischievouserror,andIamafraiditissadlycommoninmanyquarters.Itmaybetracedtoignoranceofthetruenatureofreligiousaffections.PeopleforgetthattheremaybemanyreligiousemotionsinthehumanmindwithwhichthegraceofGodhasnothingtodo.The"stony-ground"hearersreceivedthewordwithjoy—butithadnorootinthem.(Matt.13:20.)Thehistoryofallrevivalsprovesthattheremayoftenbeagreatquantityofseeminglyreligiousimpressionwithoutanytrueworkofthe Spirit. Saving faith is something far deeper and mightier than a little suddenfeeling. It is not an act of the feelings only—but of the whole conscience, will,understanding,andinwardman.Itistheresultofclearknowledge.Itspringsfromaconsciencenotgrazedmerely—but thoroughlystirred. It shows itself inadeliberate,willing, humble dependence on Christ. Such faith is the gift of God, and is neveroverthrown.Make faith amerematter of feeling, and it is of course impossible tomaintainperseverance.

(4)Ibelieveanotherreasonwhymanydonotholdperseverance, isnearakintotheone lastmentioned. It isanincorrectviewofthenatureofconversion.Not afew are ready to pronounce any change for the better in a man's character, aconversion.Theyforgetthattheremaybemanyblossomsonatreeinspring,andyetnofruitinautumn,andthatanewcoatofpaintdoesnotmakeanolddoornew.Some,iftheyseeanyoneweepingundertheinfluenceofasermon,willputitdownatonceasacaseofconversion!Others,ifaneighborsuddenlygivesupdrinking,orswearing,or card-playing, andbecomes a communicant and a great professor, at once rush totheconclusionthatheisconverted!Thenaturalconsequenceinnumerousinstancesis disappointment.Their supposed case of conversionoften turns outnothingmorethanacaseofoutwardreform,inwhichtheheartwasneverchanged.Theirconverted

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neighborsometimes returns to his old badhabits, as thepigwhichwaswashed—toherwallowinginthemire.Butthen,unhappily,theprideofthenaturalheart,whichneverlikestoallowitselfmistaken,inducespeopletoformawrongconclusionaboutthecase. Insteadof tellingus that themanneverwasconvertedatall, theysay that"hewasconverted—butafterwardslosthisgraceandfellaway."Thetrueremedyforthisisarightunderstandingofconversion.Itisnosuchcheap,andeasy,andcommonthingasmanyseemtofancy.Itisamightyworkontheheart,whichnonebutHewhomadetheworldcaneffect,andaworkwhichwillalwaysabideandstandthefire.Butoncetakealowandsuperficialviewofconversion,andyouwillfinditimpossible tomaintainfinalperseverance.

(5)Ibelieveanothermostcommonreasonwhymanydonotholdperseverance,isanincorrectviewoftheeffectofbaptism.They lay itdown,asa cardinalpoint intheirtheology,thatallwhoarebaptizedarebornagaininbaptism,andallreceivethegrace of the Holy Spirit. Without a single plain text in the Bible to support theiropinions,andinthefaceofthe17thArticle,whichmanyofthemasChurchmenhavesubscribed, they still tell us that all baptizedpeople arenecessarily "regenerate." Ofcoursesuchaviewofbaptismisutterlydestructiveofthedoctrinethattruegracecanneverbeoverthrown.Itisplainasdaylight,thatmultitudesofbaptizedpeoplenevershowasparkofgracealltheirlives,andnevergivetheslightestevidenceofhavingbeenbornofGod.Theylivecarelessandworldly,andcarelessandworldlytheydie,and to all appearancemiserably perish.According to the view to which I am nowreferring, "theyhaveall fallenaway fromgrace!Theyallhad it!Theywere allmadeGod's children! But they all lost their grace! They have all become children of thedevil!"Iwillnottrustmyselftomakeasingleremarkonsuchdoctrine.IleavethosewhocantoreconcileitwiththeBible.AllIsayis,that"ifbaptismalregeneration"betrue,thereisanendoffinalperseverance.

(6) I believe another reason whymany do not hold perseverance, isan incorrectviewofthenatureoftheChurch.Theymakenodistinctionbetween the visibleChurch which contains "evil as well as good," and the invisible Church which iscomposed of none but God's elect and true believers. They apply to the one theprivileges,andblessings,andpromiseswhichbelongtotheother.TheycallthevisibleChurch,withitscrowdsofungodlymembers,andbaptizedinfidels,"themysticalbodyofChrist,theBride,theLamb'swife,theHolyChurch,"andthelike!TheywillnotseewhatHookerlongagopointedout,andhisadmirerswoulddowelltoremember—thatall these glorious titles do not properly belong to any visible Church—but to themysticalcompanyofGod'select.Theconsequenceofallthisconfusioniscertainandplain. Upon this man-made system they are obliged to allow that thousands ofmembers ofChrist's bodyhave no life, no grace, andno sympathywith theirHead,andendatlastbybeingruinedforever,andbecominglostmembersofChristinhell!Of course at this rate they cannot maintain the doctrine of perseverance. OnceembracetheunscripturalnotionthatallmembersofthevisibleChurchare,byvirtue

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of their churchmanshipmembers of Christ, and the doctrine of this papermust bethrown aside. Oh, what a wise remark it is of Hooker's, "For lack of diligentlyobserving thedifferencebetween theChurchofGodmystical andvisible, theerrorsareneitherfewnorlightthathavebeencommitted."

IcommendthethingsIhavejustbeensayingtothesincereandprayerfulattentionofevery reader of these pages. I have gone through them at the risk of seemingwearisome,fromadeepconvictionoftheirgreatimportance.Iamsureifanypartofthispaperdeservesconsideration,itisthis.

IentreatyoutoobservehowimportantitisforChristianstobesoundinthefaith,andtobearmedwithclearScripturalknowledgeofthewholesystemoftheGospel.Ifeartheincreasingtendencytoregardalldoctrinalquestionsasmattersofopinion,andtolookonall"earnest-minded"peopleasright,whateverdoctrinestheymaintain.Iwarnyou that the sure result of giving way to this tendency will be a vague, low, mistytheology—atheologycontainingnopositivehope,nopositivemotive,andnopositiveconsolation—atheologywhichwillfailmost,justwhenitismostneeded—inthedayofaffliction,thehourofsickness,andonthebedofdeath.

Iknowwell that it isa thanklessofficetooffersuchwarningsas these. Iknowwellthat those who give them must expect to be called bigoted, narrow-minded, andexclusive. But I cannot review the many errors which prevail on the subject ofperseverance,withoutseeingmorethanevertheimmenseneedthereisforurgingonall tobecarefulaboutdoctrine.Oh, learn toknowwhatyoumeanwhenyou talkofbelievingthedoctrinesofChristianity!Beabletogiveareasonofyourhope.Beableto say what you think true, and what you think false in religion. And never, neverforget that the only foundation of soundness in the faith, is a thorough textualknowledgeoftheBible.

I entreat you, in the last place, to observe how one error in religion leads on toanother.Thereisacloseconnectionbetweenfalsedoctrines.Itisalmostimpossibletotakeuponealone.Once letamangetwrongabout theChurchand the sacraments,and there is no saying how far he may go, and where he may land at last. It is amistakeatthefountain-head,and it influences thewholecourseofhisreligion.ThemistakeaboutbaptismisastrikingillustrationofwhatImean.Itthrowsacoloroverthe whole of a man's theology. It insensibly affects his views of justification,sanctification, election, and perseverance. It fills his mind with a tangled maze ofconfusionastoalltheleadingarticlesofthefaith.Hestartswithatheoryforwhichno single plain text of Scripture can be alleged, and before this theory he tramplesdown plain passages of the Bible by the score! They interfere forsooth, with hisfavoritetheory,andthereforecannotmeanwhatcommonsensetellsustheydo!Weoughttobeasjealousaboutalittlefalsedoctrine,aswewouldbeaboutalittlesin!RememberthewordsofPaulabout falsedoctrine,"a little leaven leavens

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thewholelump."(Gal.5:9.)

IV. I now proceed, in the last place, to mention some reasons why thedoctrineoffinalperseveranceisofgreatimportance.

WhenIspeakoftheimportanceofperseverance,Idonotforamomentmeanthatitis necessary to salvation to receive it. I freely grant that thousands and tens ofthousands have gone to heaven, who believed all their lives that saints might fallaway.Butallthisdoesnotprovethedoctrinemaintainedinthispapertobeamatterofindifference.Hewhodoesnotbelieveit,andyetissaved,nodoubtdoeswell;butIampersuadedthathewhobelievesitandissaved,doesfarbetter.Iholdittobeoneof the chief privileges of the children of God, and I consider that no privilegecontainedintheGospelcanbelostsightofwithoutinjurytothesoul.

(1) Perseverance is a doctrine of great importance because of the strong colorwhichitthrowsonthewholestatementoftheGospel.ThegrandcharacteristicoftheGospelis,thatitisgladtidings.Itisamessageofpeacetoarebelliousworld.Itis good news from a far country, alike unexpected and undeserved. It is the gladtidingsthatthere isahopeforus, lost, ruined,andbankruptaswearebynature—ahopeofpardon,ahopeofreconciliationwithGod,ahopeofglory.Itisthegladtidingsthat the foundation of this hope ismighty, deep, and broad—that it is built on theatoningdeathandgraciousmediationofaSavior.ItisthegladtidingsthatthisSaviorisanactuallivingperson,JesustheSonofGod;abletosavetotheuttermostallwhocome to God byHim, and no lessmerciful, compassionate, and ready to save thanable. It is the glad tidings that the way to pardon and peace by this Savior is thesimplestpossible.Itisnotathinghighinheaven,thatwecannotreach,ordeepinthedepths,thatwecannot fathom.It issimplytobelieve, totrust,andtocastourselveswhollyonJesusforsalvation;andthensalvationisallourown.Itisthegladtidingsthatallwhobelieveareatonce justifiedand forgivenall things; their sins,howevermany,arewashedaway;theirsouls,howeverunworthy,arecountedrighteousbeforeGod.TheybelieveonJesus,andthereforetheyaresaved.Thisisthegoodnews.Thisisthegladtidings.ThisisthetruthwhichisthegrandpeculiarityoftheGospel.Happyindeedishewhoknowsandbelievesit!

Butthink,foramoment,whatamightydifferenceitwouldmakeinthesoundoftheGospel, if Iwentontosay, thatafterreceivingall thesemercies, thatyoumightby-and-bylosethementirely.WhatwouldyourfeelingsbeifItoldyouthatyouwereindaily peril of forfeiting all these privileges, and of having your pardon sealed inChrist'sblood,takenbackagain?WhatwouldyouthinkifItoldyouthatyoursafetywasyetanuncertainthing,andthatyoumightyetperish,andneverreachheavenatall?Oh,howdiscouragingthiswouldseem!Oh,howmuchofthegraceandbeautyofthegloriousGospelwoulddisappearandfadeaway!Yetthisisliterallyandexactlytheconclusiontowhichadenialofperseverancemustbringus.

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Onceadmitthat thesaintsofGodmayperish,andyouseemtometo tear fromtheGospel crown it brightest jewel.We are hanging on the edge of a precipice.We arekeptinawfulsuspenseuntilwearedead.Totellusthatthereareplentyofgraciouspromisestoencourageus—ifwewillonlypersevere—isbutmockery.Itisliketellingthesickmanthatifhewillonlygetwell,hewillbestrong.Thepoorpatientfeelsnoconfidencethathewillgetwell,andthepoorweakbelieverfeelsnothinginhimlikepower topersevere.Todayhemaybe inCanaan, and tomorrowhemay be inEgyptagain,andinbondage.Thisweekhemaybeinthenarrowway;but, foranythingheknows,nextweekhemaybebackinthebroadroad.Thismonthhemaybeajustified,pardoned,and forgivenman;butnextmonthhispardonmaybeall revoked,andhehimselfinastateofcondemnation.Thisyearhemayhavefaith,andbeachildofGod;nextyearhemaybeachildofthedevil,andhavenopartorlotinChrist.Whereisthegoodnewsinallthis?Whatbecomesofthegladtidings?Verilysuchdoctrineseemstome to cutup the joyof theGospelby the roots.Yet this is thedoctrinewemusthold, if we reject the final perseverance of the saints. "They weaken Christians'comfortthatmakebelieverswalkwithChrist,likedancersuponarope,everymomentinfearofbreakingtheirnecks!"—Manton.1658.

IblessGodthatIamabletoseeanotherkindofGospelthanthisintheWordofGod.TomyeyestheBibleseemstoteachthathewhooncebeginsthelifeoffaithinChrist,shall without doubt be preserved from apostasy, and come to a glorious end. OncemadealivebythegraceofGod,heshallliveforever.Onceraisedfromthegraveofsinandmadeanewman,heshallnevergobacktothegrave,andbecomeoncemoretheoldman"deadintrespassesandsins."HeshallbekeptbythepowerofGod.HeshallbemorethanconquerorthroughHimwholovedhim.TheeternalGodishisrefuge;underneath him are the Everlasting Arms. The love in which he is interested iseternal.Therighteousnessinwhichheisclothediseternal.Theredemptionwhichheenjoysiseternal.Thesenseandcomfortofithemaylosebyhisowncarelessness.Butthethingitself,afteroncebelieving,ishisforevermore.

Letanythinkingmanlookatthetwowaysinwhichthewearyandheavy-ladensinnermaybeaddressed,andjudgeforhimselfwhichismostliketheGospelofthegraceofGod. On the one side stands the doctrine, which says, "Believe on the Lord JesusChristandyoushallbesaved.Oncebelievingyoushallneverperish.Yourfaithshallneverbeallowedentirelytofail.YoushallbesealedbytheHolySpirituntothedayofredemption."Ontheothersidestandsthedoctrine,whichsays,"BelieveontheLordJesusChristandyoushallbesaved.Butafteryouhavebelieved—takecare!Yourfaithmay fail. Youmay fall away. Youmaydrive the Spirit from you. Youmay at lengthperisheverlastingly."Whichdoctrineofthesetwocontainsmostgoodnews?Whichismost like glad tidings? Is it all the samewhichway the sinner is addressed? Is it amatterofindifferencewhetherwetellhimthatbelievinghe issaved,unlesshefallsaway;orwhetherwe tellhim thatbelievinghe is saved forever? I cannot think it. Iregard the difference between the two doctrines as very great indeed. It is the

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difference between January and June. It is the difference between twilight andnoonday.

I speak formyself. I cannot answer for the experience of others. To give me solidpeace,Imustknowsomethingaboutmyfutureprospectsaswellasaboutmypresentposition. It is pleasant to see my pardon today—but I cannot help thinking oftomorrow. Tell me that the Holy Spirit, who leads me to Christ, and gives merepentance and faith in Him, will never leave me nor forsake me—and I feel solidcomfort.Myfeetareonarock.Mysoulisinsafehands.Ishallgetsafelyhome.Tellme,ontheotherhand,thatafterbeingledtoChristIamlefttomyownvigilance,andthatitdependsonmywatching,andpraying,andcare,whethertheSpiritleavesmeornot—andmyheartmeltswithinme.Istandonaquicksand.Ileanonabrokenreed.Ishallnevergettoheaven.Itisvaintotellmeofthepromises;thattheyareonlymineifIwalkworthyofthem.It isvaintotalktomeofChrist'smercy;Imayloseallmyinterest in itby indolenceandself-will.Theabsenceof thedoctrineofperseveranceappears to me to give a different color to the whole Gospel of Christ. You cannotwonderifIregarditasofgreatimportance.

(2) But the doctrine of perseverance is also of importance, because of the specialinfluenceit iscalculatedtohaveonallwhohaltbetweentwoopinions inreligion.

TherearemanypeopleofthisdescriptionintheChurchofChrist.Therearehundredsto be found in every congregation to which the Gospel of Christ is preached, whoknowwellwhatisright,andyethavenotcouragetoactuptotheirknowledge.Theirconsciencesareawakened.Theirmindsarecomparativelyenlightened.Theirfeelingsare partially aroused to a sense of the value of their souls. They see the path theyoughttotake.Theyhopeonedaytobeabletotakeit.Butatpresenttheysitstillandwait.TheywillnottakeupthecrossandconfessChrist.

Andwhat is it thatkeepsthemback?Inavastproportionofcasestheyareafraidtobegin,lesttheyshouldby-and-byfailandfallaway.TheyseeinnumerabledifficultiesbeforethemiftheyserveChrist.Theyarequiteright.Itisvaintodenythattherearedifficulties,bothmanyandgreat.Theystandshiveringonthebrinkofthevastseaonwhichwewould have them embark; and as theymark the rolling, tumblingwaves,theirheartsfaint.Theymarkmanyalittleboatonthewatersofthatsea,tossedtoandfro,andstrugglinghardtomakeitswayacross,andlookingasifitwouldbeengulfedintheangrybillows,andnevergetsafetoharbor."Itisofnouse,"theyfeel,"itisofnouse.We shall certainly fall away.We cannot serve Christ yet. The thing cannot bedone."

Now,whatismostlikelytogivecouragetothesehaltingsouls?Whatismostlikelytohearten them for the voyage?What ismost likely to cheer their spirits, nerve their

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minds, and bring them to the point of boldly launching away? I answer, withouthesitation,Thedoctrineoffinalperseverance.

IwouldgladlytellthemthathowevergreatthedifficultiesofChrist'sservice,thereisgraceandstrengthinstoretocarrythemtriumphantlythroughall.Iwouldtellthemthatthesepoor,praying,broken-spiritedvoyagerswhomtheywatch,andexpecttoseecastaway,areallassafeasiftheywerealreadyinharbor.Theyhaveeachapilotonboard,whowill carry them safely through every storm.They are each joined to theeverlastingGodbyatiethatcanneverbebroken,andshallallappearatlength,safeattherighthandoftheirLord.Yes—andIwouldgladlytellthemthattheytooshallallmakeagloriousendiftheywillonlybegin.Iwouldhavethemknowthat,iftheywillonly commit themselves to Christ, they shall never be cast away. They shall not bepluckedawaybySatan.Theyshallneverbelefttosinkandcometoshame.Trialstheymayhave—butnonethattheSpiritwillnotgivethempowertoendure.Temptationstheymayhave—butnonethattheSpiritshallnotenablethemtoresist.Onlyletthembegin,andtheyshallbeconquerors.Butthegreatmatteristobegin.IbelievefirmlythatonereasonwhysomanywaveringChristianshangbackfrommakingadecidedprofession, is the lack of encouragement which the doctrine of perseverance isintendedtoafford.

(3)Thedoctrineofperseveranceisofimportancebecauseofthespecialinfluenceitiscalculatedtohaveonthemindsoftruebelievers.

Thenumberoftruebelieversisatalltimesverysmall.Theyarealittleflock.Butevenoutofthatflocktherearefewwhocanbecalledstronginfaith,fewwhoknowmuchof uninterrupted joy and peace in believing, few who are not often cast down bydoubts,anxieties,andfears.

Itisuselesstodenythatthewaytoheavenisnarrow.Therearemanythingstotrythefaithofbelievers.Theyhavetrialstheworldcannotunderstand.Theyhavewithinaheartweak,deceitful,andnottobetrusted—coldwhentheywouldgladlybewarm—backward when they would gladly be forward—more ready to sleep than to watch.They havewithout aworldthat does not love Christ's truth and Christ's people—aworldfullofslander,ridicule,andpersecution—aworldwithwhichtheirowndearestrelationsoftenjoin.Theyhaveevernearthemabusydevil,anenemywhohasbeenreadingmen's hearts for 6,000 years, and knows exactly how to suit and time histemptations—an enemy who never ceases to lay snares in their way—who neverslumbersandneversleeps.Theyhavethecaresoflifetoattendto,likeotherpeople—the cares of children—the cares of business—the cares of money—the cares ofearthlyplansandarrangements—thecaresofapoorweakbody,eachdaily thrustingitselfupontheirsouls.Whocanwonderthatbelieversaresometimescastdown?Whooughtnotrathertomarvelthatanybelieversaresaved?TrulyIoften think that thesalvationofeachsavedpersonisagreatermiraclethanthepassageofIsraelthrough

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theRedSea.

"Thereareasmanymiracleswroughtasasaintispreserved,asthereareminutes."—Jenkyn.1680.

Butwhatisthebestantidoteagainstthebeliever'sfearsandanxieties?Whatismostlikelytocheerhimashelooksforwardtotheuntriedfutureandremembersthewearypast?Ianswerwithouthesitation,thedoctrineofthefinalperseveranceofGod'select.Lethimknow thatGod having begun a goodwork in himwill never allow it to beoverthrown. Let him know that the footsteps of Christ's little flock are all in onedirection.Theyhaveerred.Theyhavebeenvexed.Theyhavebeen tempted.Butnotoneofthemhasbeenlost.LethimknowthatthosewhomJesusloves,Helovesuntotheend.LethimknowthatHewillnotallowtheweakestlambinHisflocktoperishin thewilderness, or the tenderest flower inHis garden towither and die! Let himknowthatDaniel in thedenof lions, the threechildren in the fiery furnace,Paul intheshipwreck,NoahintheArk—werenotmorecaredforandmoresecurethaneachbeliever in Christ is at the present day. Let him know that he is fenced, walled in,protected,guardedbytheAlmightypowerofFather,Son,andHolySpirit—andcannotperish.Lethimknowthatitisnotinthepowerofthingspresentorthingstocome—of people or of devils—of cares within or troubles without—to separate one singlechildofGodfromthelovethatisinChristJesus.

Thisisstrongconsolation!ThesearethethingswhichGodhaslaidupintheGospel,fortheestablishmentandconfirmationofHispeople.WellwoulditbeforHispeopleif these things were more brought forward than they are in the Church of Christ.VerilyIbelievethatonereasonofthesaints'weaknessistheirignoranceofthetruthswhichGodhasrevealedinordertomakethemstrong.

Ileavethesubjectoftheimportanceofperseverancehere.ItrustIhavesaidenoughto showmyreaders that Ihavenot called their attention to it in thispaperwithoutgood cause. I feel strongly that the hardness of man's heart is such that nothingshouldbeomittedinreligiousteachingwhichislikelytodoitgood.Idarenotomitasinglegrainoftruth,howeverstrong,andliabletoabuse,itmayseemtobe.Nothing appears to me of small importance which adds to the beauty of theGospel, or gives encouragement to the halting, or confirms and builds up God'speople.IdesiretoteachthattheGospelnotonlyofferspresentpardonandpeace—buteternalsafetyandcertaincontinuancetotheend.ThisIbelievetobethemindoftheSpirit.AndwhattheSpiritrevealsIdesiretoproclaim.

AndnowIhavebroughtbeforemyreaders,tothebestofmyability,thewholesubjectof perseverance. If I have failed to convince you, I am sorry—but I am satisfied thedefectisnotinthedoctrineIdefend—butinmymannerofstatingit.ItonlyremainstoconcludethispaperbyafewwordsofPRACTICALAPPLICATION.

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(1)Foronething,letmeentreatyoutothoroughlyconsider,whetheryouhaveanypartatallinthesalvationofChristJesus.

Itmattersnothingwhatyoubelieveaboutperseverance, ifafterallyouhavenotruefaith inChrist. Itmatters littlewhetheryouhold thedoctrineornot, so longasyouhavenosaving faith,andyoursinsarenot forgiven,andyourheartnot renewedbytheHolySpirit.Theclearesthead-knowledgewillsavenoman.Themostcorrectandorthodox views will not prevent a man perishing by the side of the most ignorantheathen—if he is not born again.Oh, search and seewhat is the state of your ownsoul!

Youcannot live forever.Youmustonedaydie.Youcannotavoid the judgmentafterdeath.Youmuststandbefore the tribunalofChrist.Thesummonsof theArchangelcannotbedisobeyed.Thelastgreatassemblymustbeattended.Thestateofyourownsoulmustonedayundergoathoroughinvestigation.ItwillbefoundoutonedaywhatyouareinGod'ssight.Yourspiritualconditionwillatlengthbebroughttolightbeforethewholeworld.Oh, findoutwhat it isnow!While youhave time,while youhavehealth,findoutthestateofyoursoul.

Your danger, if you are not converted, is far greater than I can describe. Just inproportiontothethoroughsafetyofthebelieveristhedeadlyperiloftheunbeliever.Thereisbutastepbetweentheunbelieverandthewormthatneverdies,andthefirethat is not quenched. He is literally hanging over the brink of the bottomless pit.Sudden death to the saint is sudden glory; but sudden death to the unconvertedsinner,issuddenhell.Oh,searchandseewhatisthestateofyoursoul!

Remember thatyoumay findoutwhetheryouhavean interest in the invitationsoftheGospel.Itisathingwhichmaybeknown.Itisnonsensetopretendthatnomancantell.Ineverwillbelievethatanhonestman,withaBibleinhishand,willfailtodiscover his own spiritual condition by diligent self-examination. Oh, be an honestman!SearchtheScriptures.Lookwithin.Restnotuntilyoufindoutthestateofyoursoul.To liveonand leavethesoul'sstateuncertain, isnot toplay thepartofawiseman—butofafool.

(2) In the next place, if youknownothingof theprivileges of theGospel, Ientreatyouthisdaytorepentandbeconverted,tohearChrist'svoice,andfollowHim.

Iknownoreason,humanordivine,whyyoushouldnotaccept this invitation todayand be saved, if you are reallywilling. It is not the quantity of your sins that needpreventyou.Allmannerofsinmaybeforgiven.ThebloodofJesuscleansesawayallsin.Itisnotthehardnessofyourheart,thatneedpreventyou.AnewheartGodwillgiveyou,andanewspiritwillHeput inyou. It isnot thedecreesofGod thatneed

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preventyou.Hewillsnotthedeathofsinners.Heisnotwillingthatanyshouldperish—butthatallshouldcometorepentance.ItisnotanylackofwillingnessinChrist—Hehas long cried to the sons ofmen, "Whoeverwill, let him take thewater of lifefreely.""HimwhocomesuntoMeIwillnevercastout."Oh,whyshouldnotyoubesaved?(Rev.22:17;John6:37.)

Adaymustcome,ifyouareevertobeGod'schild,whenyouwillceasetotriflewithyoursoul'sinterests.Anhourmustcomewhenatlastyouwillbendyourkneeinrealearnestness, and pour out your heart beforeGod in real prayer. A timemust comewhentheburdenofyoursinswillatlastfeelintolerable,andwhenyouwillfeelyoumust have rest in Christ or perish. All this must come to pass, if you are ever tobecomea child ofGod andbe saved.Andwhynot today?Whynot this very night?WhynotwithoutdelayseekChristandlive?Answerme,ifyoucan!

(3)Inthenextplace,letmeentreateveryreaderwhoholdsfinalperseverance,sotousethispreciousdoctrineasnottoabuseit.

ThereisanawfulreadinessinallpeopletoabuseGod'smercies.EventhechildrenofGodarenotfreefromthesadinfection.Thereisabusydevilnearthebestofsaints,whowouldgladlypersuadethemtomaketheirprivilegesapleaforcarelessliving,andtoturntheirsoul'sfoodintopoison.IcannotlookroundtheChurchofChrist,andseetheendtowhichmanyhighprofessorscome,withoutfeelingthatthereisneedforacaution."Lethimwhothinkshestandstakeheedlesthefall."(1Cor.10:12.)

Wouldweknowwhat it is toabuse thedoctrineofperseverance? It is abusedwhenbelieversmaketheirsafetyanexcuseforinconsistenciesinpractice.Itisabusedwhenthey make their security from final ruin an apology for a low standard ofsanctification, and a distant walk with God. Against both these abuses I entreatbelieverstobeontheirguard.

Wouldweknowwhat it is touse thedoctrineofperseverance aright? Let uswatchjealouslyoverthedailyworkingsofourownhearts.Letusmortifyandnipinthebudthe least inclination to spiritual indolence. Let us settle it down in ourminds, as arulingprincipleofourlives,thatthemerciesofGodareonlyturnedtoagoodaccountwhentheyhaveasanctifyingeffectonourhearts.Letusrootitfirmlyinourinwardman, that the love of Christ is never so really valued as when it constrains us toincreased spiritual-mindedness. Let us set before ourminds, that themore safewefeel—themoreholyweoughttobe.ThemorewerealizethatGodhasdonemuchforus,themoreweoughttodoforGod.Thegreaterourdebt,thegreatershouldbeourgratitude.Themorewe see the riches of grace, themore rich shouldwebe in goodworks.

Oh,foraheartlikethatoftheApostlePaul!Torealizeashedid,ourperfectsafetyin

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Christ—tolaborashedidforGod'sglory,asifwecouldneverdotoomuch—thisisthemark—this is the standard atwhichwe ought to aim. Let us so use the doctrine ofperseverancethatourgoodmayneverbeevilspokenof.

Letussoadornthedoctrinebyourlivesthatwemaymakeitbeautifultoothers,andconstrainpeopletosay,"Itisagoodandholythingtobepersuadedthatsaintsshallneverperish."

(4) In the last place, Ientreatallbelieverswhohavehithertobeenafraidoffalling away—to lay firm hold on the doctrine of perseverance, and torealizetheirownsafetyinChrist.

Iwant you toknow the lengthandbreadthof yourportion inChrist. Iwant you tounderstandthe fullamountof thetreasuretowhichfaith inJesusentitlesyou.Youhavefoundoutthatyouareagreatsinner.ThankGodforthat.YouhavefledtoChristforpardonandpeacewithGod.ThankGodforthat.YouhavecommittedyourselftoJesus for time and eternity—you have no hope but in Christ's blood, Christ'srighteousness Christ's mediation, Christ's daily all-persevering intercession. ThankGodforthat.Yourheart'sdesireandprayeristobeholyinallmannerofconversation.ThankGodforthat.Butoh,layholdupontheglorioustruth—thatbelievingonJesusyoushallneverperish, youshallneverbe castaway, you shallnever fall away! It iswrittenforyouaswellasfortheapostles,"Mysheepshallneverperish."

Yes!Jesushasspokenit—andJesusmeantittobebelieved.Jesushasspokenit—andHe never brakes His promises. Jesus has spoken it—and He cannot lie. Jesus hasspoken it—andHe has all power in heaven and earth to keep His word. Jesus hasspokenitfortheleastandlowestbelievers,"Mysheepshallneverperish."

Wouldyouhaveperfectpeaceinlife?Thenlayholdonthisdoctrineofperseverance.YourTRIALSmaybemanyandgreat.Yourcrossmaybeveryheavy.Butthebusinessof your soul is all conducted according to an "everlasting covenant, ordered in allthingsandsure." (2Sam.23:5.)All thingsareworking together foryourgood.Yoursorrowsareonlypurifyingyoursoulforglory.Yourbereavementsareonlyfashioningyouas a polished stone for the temple above,madewithout hands. Fromwhateverquarterthestormsblow,theyonlydriveyounearertoheaven.Whateverweatheryoumay go through it is only ripening you for the garner of God. Your best things arequitesafe.Comewhatwill,youshall"neverperish."

Wouldyouhavestrongconsolation inSICKNESS?Then layholdonthisdoctrineofperseverance.Think,asyou feel thepinsof thisearthly tabernacle looseningonebyone,"nothingcanbreakmyunionwithChrist."Yourbodymaybecomeuseless;yourlimbs may refuse to perform their office; you may feel like an old useless log—aweariness to others, and a burden to yourself. But your soul is safe! Jesus is never

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tiredofcaringforyoursoul.Youshall"neverperish."

WouldyouhavefullassuranceofhopeinDEATH?Thenlayholdonthisdoctrineofperseverance. Doctors may have given over their labors; friends may be unable toministertoyourneeds;sightmaydepart;hearingmaydepart;memorymaybealmostgone—buttheloving-kindnessofGodshallnotdepart.OnceinChristyoushallneverbe forsaken. Jesus shall stand by you. Satan shall not harm you. Death shall notseparateyoufromtheeverlastingloveofGodinChrist.Youshall"neverperish!"

Footnote

Thedeath-bedofBruce,thefamousScotchdivine,isastrikingillustrationofthispartofmysubject.OldFlemingdescribesitinthefollowingwords."Hissightfailedhim,whereuponhecalledforhisBible;butfindinghissightgonehesaid,'CastuptometheeighthchapterofRomansandsetmyfingeronthesewords,Iampersuadedthatneitherdeath,norlife,etc.,shallbeabletoseparatemefromtheloveofGodwhichisinChristJesusourLord.Now',saidhe,'ismyfingeruponthem?'whentheytoldhimitwas,hesaid,'NowGodbewithyou,mychildren:Ihavebreakfastedwithyou,andshallsupwithmyLordJesusChristthisnight',andsogaveuptheGhost"-Fleming'sFulfilmentofProphecy,1680.

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