THE CONSISTENT CHRISTIAN

 

A Handbook for Christian Living

 

William Secker, 1660  

 

 

EDITOR’S NOTE

Without doubt, this is the richest book we have ever read. In order to gain any spiritual profit from the book — it must be carefully perused. It is much like the book of Proverbs, where each line must be contemplated. Concerning the literary style of the author, Secker abounds in the use of comparisons and contrasts — often using several analogies in the same sentence. Similar to the Old Testament authors, at times Secker ‘purposely exaggerates’ the wording, to make his point. This handbook for Christian living will be a treasure to all serious Christians. Originally titled “The Nonsuch Professor” this antiquated book has been carefully updated to modern English.  (Editors, GraceGems.org)  

 

 

PREFACE

 

Christian Reader,

 

To serve man’s necessity is charitable; to serve his convenience is warrantable; to serve his iniquity is blamable — but to serve his purity is honorable!

 

The design of this piece is not the ostentation of the author — but the edification of the reader. In this subject you have a breviary of true religion. The works enjoined in it are weighty, and the blessings annexed to it are many. Christianity is here dressed in the white linen of purity. As grace begins in God’s love to us — so it ends in our love to Him. Grace both makes our comforts greater — and our crowns brighter. Those children of God who are found moving in the orbits of obedience — shall enjoy the clearest sunshine of their Father’s countenance!

 

Beloved, be sure to raise your superstructure upon an immovable foundation; and enter into such a business, as has an immediate tendency to blessedness. It is an unparalleled mercy — to be preserved from corruption in the midst of general infection. It is far better to be innocent than penitent; to prevent the malady, than invent the remedy!

 

Remember, reader, that we can call no time our own — but the present. How carefully should we shoot — who have but one arrow to direct at the mark! The more you enjoy the smiles of God — the more you will shine in the eyes of those saints, who judge of the trees of righteousness, by the fruits of righteousness. The enjoyment of this world is neither an evidence of divine favor — nor of divine anger. Do not judge yourself, therefore, by the gold in your bags — but by the grace of God in your heart; not by your wealth — but by your works. If religion is your vineyard to labor in — eternity shall be your bed to rest upon. Every grace that is here exercised — shall be there glorified!

 

It is an unseemly thing to put on the fair suit of profession — and to do the foul work of corruption. The time is approaching, when God will burn up those vines which bear only sour grapes. The gospel not only requires diligence — but it also requires excellence; that by the singularity of your actions — you may prove the sincerity of your disposition!

 

Christian, the race is short in which you run — but the prize is great for which you run. I wish this gale of divinity may speed your vessel to the haven of felicity! And when God gives in more to me — I shall give out more to you. In the mean time, I shall deem it my highest honor to be instrumental to others’ conversion, and in this relation I beg to subscribe myself, yours in the Lord,

William Secker

 

 

 

OUTLINE

 

 

TEXT

“If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?” Matthew 5:46-47 

 

DOCTRINE

That singular Christians will perform singular actions. 
 

 

I. Eight reasons WHY a Christian

should do more than others —

 

 

1. Because more is done FOR him than for others.

 

2. Because he is more nearly RELATED to God than others.

 

3. Because he PROFESSES more than others.

 

4. Because he is inwardly CONFORMED to the Redeemer more than others.

 

5. Because he is WATCHED more than others.

 

6. Because if he DOES no more than others--it will appear that he IS no more than others.

 

7. Because he is appointed to be a JUDGE of others.

 

8. Because he EXPECTS more than others.

 
 

 

II. WHAT the Christian does more than others —

 

 

1. He does much good — and makes but little noise.

 

2. He brings up the bottom of his life — to the top of his light.

 

3. He prefers the duty he owes to God — to the danger he fears from man.

 

4. He seeks the public good of others — above the private good of himself.

 

5. He has the most beautiful life — among the vilest people.

 

6. He chooses the worst of sorrows — rather than commit the least sin.

 

7. He becomes a father to all in charity — and a servant to all in humility.

 

8. He mourns most before God — for those lusts which appear least before men.

 

9. He keeps his heart lowest — when God raises his estate highest.

 

10. He seeks to be better inwardly in his substance — than outwardly in appearance.

 

11. He is grieved more at the distresses of the church — than affected at his own happiness.

 

12. He renders the greatest good — for the greatest evil.

 

13. He takes those reproofs best — which he needs most.

 

14. He takes up duty in point of performance — and lays it down in point of dependence.

 

15. He takes up his contentment — in God’s appointment.

 

16. He is more in love with the employment of holiness — than with the enjoyment of happiness.

 

17. He is more employed in searching his own heart — than in censuring other men’s states.

 

18. He sets out for God at his beginning — and holds out with Him to the end.

 

19. He takes all the shame of his sins to himself — and gives all the glory of his services to Christ.

 

20. He values his heavenly inheritance — above all earthly possessions.
 

  

III. APPLICATION

 

 

A. Twenty PRINCIPLES which a believer should walk by —

 

1. That whatever is transacted by men on earth — is eyed by the Lord in Heaven.

 

2. That after all his present receivings — he will be brought to his future reckonings.

 

3. That God bears a greater respect to his heart — than to his works.

 

4. That there is more final bitterness in reflecting on sin — than there can be present sweetness in the commission of sin.

 

5. That there is the greatest vanity — in all created excellency.

 

6. That duties can never have too much attention paid to them — nor too little confidence placed in them.

 

7. That those precious promises, which are given to insure his happiness — do not supersede those directions which are laid down for him to seek after happiness.

 

8. That it is dangerous to dress himself for another world — at the looking-glass of this world.

 

9. That where sin proves hateful — it shall not prove hurtful.

 

10. That inward purity is the ready road — to outward plenty.

 

11. That all the time which God allows him — is but enough for the work which He allots him.

 

12. That there can never be too great an estrangement from defilement.

 

13. That whatever is temporarily enjoyed — should be spiritually improved.

 

14. That he should speak well of God — whatever trials he receives from God.

 

15. That the longer God forbears with the unrelenting sinner in life — the sorer He strikes him in the judgment-day.

 

16. That there is no judging of the inward conditions of men — by the outward dispensations of God.

 

17. That it is safest to cleave to that good which is the choicest.

 

18. That no present worldly business — should interrupt his pursuit of future blessedness.

 

19. That gospel integrity towards God — is the best security against wicked men.

 

20. That the richness of the crown which shall be received — shall more than compensate for the bitterness of the cross which may here be endured.

 

 

B. Seven DIRECTIONS to those who wish to do more than others —

 

1. You must deny yourself more than others.

 

2. You must pray more than others.

 

3. You must resolve more than others.

 

4. You must love more than others.

 

5. You must believe more than others.

 

6. You must know more than others.

 

7. God must reveal Himself more to you, than He does to others.  
 

 

 

I. WHY a Christian Should Do More than Others

 

In a mountain, the law was propounded to Moses — and in a mountain the law was expounded by Jesus; the former to a man of God — the latter by the Son of God; the one to a prophet of the Lord, the other by the Lord of the prophets.

 

As the works of Christ were miraculous — so the words of Christ were mysterious; they were such a depth which none could sound but those whom God had furnished with the plummet of an enlightened understanding. Before any one can peruse the Scriptures to profit, the Lamb of God must open the ‘seven seals’.

 

In this chapter, the soul-justifying Savior condemns the self-justifying Scribes and Pharisees. Never did men make more boast in the law — but never had men less cause. They knew but little as to the letter — but less of its spirit. They were better acquainted with the customs of nature — than the canons of Scripture. Alas! how shall the blind see — when the seers are blind! They who should have put the eyes of others in, had put their own out!

 

The righteous laws of God cannot connive at the unrighteous lives of men; they not only require truth without — but within also. The rays of this sun enter the most secret chambers of the heart, therefore he who lusts after, and he who lies with a woman are both adulterers. He is a murderer whose heart is full of hatred, though his hands are free from violence. Thus the lusts of men may be predominant, when the lives of men are not inordinate; as guests may be in the house, when they look not out of the windows. He who begins religion where it should end — will end religion where it should be begun.

 

But as the suburbs direct to the city, and the portal leads to the palace — so the context will guide us to the text.

 

“If you love those who love you — what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?” As an echo returns the voice it receives — so many will show kindness where kindness is shown; but shall tax collectors be as godly as the Lord’s disciples? Shall the sons of men — equal the sons of God? Shall the law of nature swell to so high a tide — as the law of grace? This were for the dribbling rivulet to vie with the swelling ocean; this were for royalty to degenerate into beggary; and for the meridian sun to yield no more light than midnight shadows.

 

“And if you greet only your brothers — what are you doing more than others?” I shall not meticulously dissect these words, lest I should present to your view a frightful skeleton; nor shall I lavishly paint these windows, lest my deep colors should shut out the light. The native loveliness of Scripture scorns the unnatural color of a bewitching Jezebel. One rough diamond is of more value — than many smooth counterfeits.

 

My subject treats not of oratory — but divinity; and my design in it is rather to express affections, than to affect expressions. Though the sweetness of the sauce may yield pleasure to the palate — yet it is only the soundness of the meat which can administer nourishment to the blood.

 

This text is like a precious jewel — small in quantity, but great in quality. The words contain two parts:

 

I. An action propounded.

II. A question proposed.

 

I. An action propounded, touching that which is lawful: “If you love those who love you.” “And if you greet only your brothers.” This means to greet — with kisses and affection; therefore, what one verse calls greeting, the other calls loving; because greeting is a pledge of affection, it is the overflowing of the heart at the lips. There is a kiss of subjection and obedience — that is the subject’s kiss; there is a kiss of wantonness and temptation — that is the harlot’s kiss; there is a kiss of deception — that is the traitor’s kiss; there is also a kiss of tenderness and affection — and that is the brother’s kiss.

 

Now this Scripture enjoins you, not only to greet your friends — but your enemies also. Party esteem is but withered fruit, and falls rather from Sodom’s vines — than Zion’s trees. There is therefore a kiss of pity and forgiveness — and that is the Christian’s kiss. If this is lacking — the others are vain. For, if you greet your brethren only, then observe what follows, which is:

 

II. A question proposed, “What are you doing — more than others?” What great or singular thing do you do? The words thus understood contain this golden head of instruction:

 

Doctrine, That singular Christians will perform singular actions.

 

This is the well from which I shall draw the water; and the foundation upon which I shall raise the superstructure. You cannot rationally imagine that you will be supplied with bitter streams — from so sweet a spring; or that I should make a crooked wall or tottering fence — with such choice materials. Those who collect pearls from this spot — will leave as many behind them, as they carry with them.

 

As the disciples of Christ are more than others — so the disciples of Christ do more than others. A religious hypocrite may move beyond a Sodomite — but a true Christian moves beyond them both. Though the naturally dead can do nothing — yet the spiritually dead may do something. Though they can do nothing to merit the grace of life — yet they may do something as to using the means of life.

 

Cicero complains of Homer, that ‘he taught the gods — to live like men’. But grace teaches men — to live like gods. It is lamentable that we should live so long in the world — and do so little for God; or that we should live so short a time in the world — and do so much for Satan. Other creatures are not more below a sinner, than a saint is above a sinner. Man is the excellency of the creation, the saint is the excellency of man, grace is the excellency of the saint, and glory is the excellency of grace!

 

Believers are among others, as Saul was among the Israelites — the tallest by the head and shoulders. Their birth is truly low — who are not born from above. What are such earthly shrubs — compared with heavenly cedars? Those trees which have their top branches of hope in Heaven — will have their lower boughs of activity on earth. Those who look for a Heaven made ready — will live as though they were already in Heaven.

 

Grace not only makes a man more a man — but it also makes him more than a man. The primitive Christians were the best of men. None were more lowly in their dispositions, or more lovely in their conversation. Noah was a just man and perfect in his generation. He was not a sinner among saints — but he was a saint among sinners. Who would have looked for so fair a bird — in so foul a nest! Though he once acted as the sons of men do — yet he was numbered with the sons of God. A field of wheat may be good — and yet have a weed in it. A saint is not free from sin — that is his burden; a saint is not free to sin — that is his blessing. Sin is in him — that is his lamentation; his soul is not in sin — that is his consolation.

 

Mark how an immaculate Savior glories in one of these singular saints, “And the Lord said to Satan, Have you considered My servant Job?” Why, what is there in him so considerable? “There is none like him in all the earth.” Though there were none in Heaven so bad as Job — yet there were none on earth so good as Job. He was a man so like God — that there was no man like him.

 

A gracious person once hearing how far a hypocrite might go, said “Let hypocrites proceed as far as they can in that which is laudable; and when they can advance no further — I will go beyond them.” A true Christian not only does more than others will do — but he also does more than others can do. Whatever is not above the top of nature, is below the bottom of grace. There are some who pretend to believe — but work not; there are others who work — but believe not. But a saint does both, he so obeys the law, as if there were no gospel to be believed; and so believes the gospel, as though there were no law to be obeyed. True religion consists not singly in believing or doing — but in both.

 

There are four sorts of things in the world:

 

1. There are some things which are neither good nor pleasant, such as envy and slander. The eclipsing of another’s sun — will not make your own shine with brighter beams. O pare off those envious nails, which are ever disfiguring that face which is fairer than your own. Why do you wound yourself — with that plaster which is laid upon your brother’s sore? Why do you weep at every shower — which falls beside your own field? Who would envy an ox that pasture — which only fits it for the slaughter? Who would envy the malefactor that carriage — which only conveys him to the place of execution? You have no less — because others have much; nor have they much — because you have little. Another’s wealth is no more the cause of your need, than Leah’s fruitfulness was the cause of Rachel’s barrenness. O never pine at your neighbor’s prosperity — and you shall never pine away through your own scarcity. He enjoys much — who is thankful for a little. A grateful mind is a great mind.

 

2. There are some things which are pleasant — but not good, such as youthful lusts and worldly delights. These bees carry honey in their mouths — but they have a sting in their tails! When this Jael brings forth her milk and her butter — then beware of the nail and the hammer! Death is in the pot — while you are tasting the soup! The world always presents a deadly potion — in the gilded cup of worldly pleasure. If the cup is sinful — do not taste it; if it is lawful — do not carouse over it. Reason forbids you, either to taste known poison — or to be intoxicated with pleasant wine. The fish is caught upon the hook — by leaping at the bait. Sin is like a river, which begins in a quiet spring — but ends in a tumultuous sea. “Flee from youthful lusts — and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace.”

 

3. There are some things good — but not pleasant, such as sorrow and affection. Sin is pleasant — but unprofitable. Affliction is unpleasant — but profitable. “Before I was afflicted I went astray — but now I keep Your word!” “It was good for me to be afflicted so that I could learn Your statutes!” By affliction, the Lord separates the sin that He hates — from the soul that He loves. He sends affliction — to take the dirt of the world out of the hearts of His children. It is not sent to take down the tabernacle of nature — but to rear up the temple of grace within you. As waters are purest when they are in motion — so saints are generally holiest when in affliction. Some Christians resemble those doltish children, who will learn their lessons — no longer than while the rod is on their backs! It is well known that by the greatest affliction — the Lord has sealed the sweetest instruction. Many are not bettered by the judgments they see — when they have been bettered by the judgments they have felt. The purest gold is the most pliable by being in the furnace. That is the best blade which bends well, without retaining its crooked figure.

 

4. There are some things both good and pleasant, and those are gracious operations on the soul. A believer’s bed of graces — is more fragrant than the most precious bed of spices. He who freely gives His image to us — must of necessity love His image in us. How illustrious do the heavens appear — while the sun is radiating them with his beams! “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things!”

 

But, as you cannot see so well by a candle under a bushel, as upon a table — I shall therefore hold up the subject to your view in the following light:

 

Firstly, I shall touch upon the explanation of that which is doctrinal.

 

Secondly, upon the application of that which is practical.

 

The former is like cutting the garment out — the latter is like putting the garment on.

I am first to treat of that which is DOCTRINAL.

 

And here I shall show, First — WHY a Christian does more than others; Secondly — WHAT a Christian does more than others.

 

 

I. WHY a Christian does more than others.

 

1. Because more is done FOR them — than is done for others.

 

There is that done for them — which none but He who made them could do. They are loved, they are atoned for, they are prayed for, and they are provided for — more than others. Now where there is an overabundance of privilege — there should be an overabundance of practice. We naturally expect more splendor from the beaming of the sun — than from the burning of a candle; and we look for more moisture from the drops from a cloud — than from the drops from a bucket. The same heat which melts the wax — will harden the clay. The juice which distills into a rose — is returned in a sweet perfume; but that which drops upon a nettle — is returned in an ill savor. If the mercies of God are not loadstones to draw us to Heaven — they will be millstones to draw or sink us to Hell! “Do you despise the riches of His kindness, restraint, and patience, not recognizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? But because of your hardness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath, when God’s righteous judgment is revealed!”

 

“To whom much is given — of them much shall be required.” The blessings we enjoy are not the fruit of our merit — but the fruit of God’s mercy. By how much the more grace we have received — by so much the more glory we are obliged to return to the Giver. He does not exact much — where little is bestowed; nor does He accept little — where much is received. A drop of praise is an unsuitable acknowledgment for an ocean of mercy! “Hear this word that the Lord has spoken against you, O children of Israel — You only have I loved of all the families of the earth.” But was their return according to the benefit? Surely not — otherwise He would not have added, “Therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.” They were more loved by God than others — therefore they should have acknowledged Him more than others.

 

Those who have tasted the goodness of God — can never speak good enough of God. Reason teaches, that those should bless most — who are most blessed. What are carnal men — compared to Christian men? The power of God appears in the formation of the carnal man — but the stupendous grace of God shines illustriously in the transformation of the Christian man. In creation God has given the productions of the earth for our bodies — but in redemption He has given Himself for our souls! Thus, it is a greater favor to be converted than to be created; yes, it were better for us to have no being — than not to have a new being.

 

When you were sailing to destruction, before sin’s dangerous blast — then the most blessed gales of mercy sprang up, and changed your course! When you lay in the blood of your transgression — then God beheld you with the affections of His compassion. His heart pitied you — and His hand helped you! Now where there is distinguishing mercy — there ought to be distinguishing duty. The gardener who holds the largest farms — will pay the greatest rent; and he who sows the most precious seed — will expect the choicest crop. Now read the great Gardener’s complaint against His vineyard: “My beloved has a vineyard on a rich and fertile hill. He plowed the land, cleared its stones, and planted it with choice vines.” Here is an inventory of God’s goodness to His vineyard. Now what follows? “He waited for a harvest of sweet grapes — but the grapes that grew were wild and sour!” God looked that they should be better to Him than others — because He had been better to them than He had been to others.

 

God had made them flowers of His paradise; while others were left as the weeds of Satan’s wilderness. While others were Satan’s thoroughfare — they were God’s choice enclosed garden.

 

God has made you His own dials — on which the beams of the Sun of righteousness shines! He has made you gems for His crown — while others are stools for His feet! “Lord, how is it that You will manifest Yourself unto us — and not unto the world?” As if he had said: “Lord, what are we more than others — that You should show Yourself to us; when You might have shown Yourself to them — and not to us?”

 

Reader! has God made you a vessel unto honor — out of the same lump, as another unto dishonor? Has He shown Himself to you — and not to the world? And will you not show yourself for God — and not for the world? Remember, that it lay as a great blotch on Hezekiah’s escutcheon, that, “he rendered not unto the Lord — according to the benefit done unto him.”

 

2. Another reason why Christians do more than others, is — Because they stand in a nearer RELATION to God than others.

 

The nearer the relation — the stronger are the ties of obligation. In this view, believers on earth are superior to angels in Heaven. Christ is related to the angels as a master to his servants — but He is united to believers as a head to its members. In this head, there are no glazed eyes — nor are there any withered or dead members in this body. While others are made of God — believers are born of God. While others stand before Him as prisoners before their judge — believers appear before Him as children before their father, and as a bride before a bridegroom. There are no stillborn children in the family of grace. God is the living Father, and therefore all His children live by Him; He is also the everlasting Father, and therefore He will have due honor paid Him. “A son honors his father, and a servant his master. But if I am a Father, where is My honor? And if I am a Master, where is your fear of Me?” As a Father — He will be revered for His goodness; and as a Master — He will be feared for His greatness.

 

If honor is not the Lord’s due — let Him not have it; if it is His due — let Him not be denied it. As man was born to serve God — he had better never have been born, than to refuse God that service.

 

This is the language of God to His children — I did not give you bodies and souls to serve sin with — but to serve Me with. Our bodies were not formed to be the instruments of unrighteous actions — nor our souls the gloomy abodes of foul spirits.

 

The everlasting Father cannot endure the ungrateful behavior of His own children. Therefore, attend to the great complaint He makes against them. “Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth, for My children refuse to hear! I have nourished and brought up children — and they have rebelled against Me!” Where the relation is the nearest — there the provocation is the greatest. It is far more pleasing to behold rebels becoming children — than to behold children becoming rebels.

 

When Caesar was wounded by the senators of Rome, Brutus a Roman of an illustrious family, also made a thrust at him. With that Caesar gave him a wistful look, saying, “What you — my son Brutus!” How can that tender mother endure to feel those lips sucking her blood — which used to draw her maternal breast? The unkindness of a friend is more sensibly felt — than that of an enemy.

 

The Roman censors took such an utter dislike to the debauched son of Africanus, that they refused to let him wear a ring on which his father’s likeness was engraved; alleging, “That he who was so unlike the father — was unworthy to wear the father’s picture.” Thus God will never grant any to enjoy the love of Christ in Heaven — who are destitute of the likeness of Christ on earth.

 

Alexander, who was reported to be an exceeding swift runner, was once solicited to run in the Olympic games. He answered “I will, if kings are my competitors.” Give me such a saint who will pursue nothing on earth, which may be unsuitable to his birth from Heaven. What! Shall he walk in darkness — whose Father is light! What! Shall those lips be found broaching falsehood — which were found breathing out prayers! What! Shall those eyes be found gazing on sinful objects — which were found reading the living Word of God!

 

The remembrance of our dignity — should engage us to our heavenly duty. “It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine and strong drink.” Such a sin is detestable in a sovereign, who has the eyes of his subjects upon him; but it is aggravated in a saint, who has the eyes of his Savior upon him. A spot in scarlet, is worse than a stain in cotton.

 

3. Another reason why Christians do more than others, is — Because they PROFESS more than others.

 

Though there are many professors who are not true believers; yet there are no true believers — who are not professors. As trees are known by their fruits — so believers are known by their works. Such as have received Christ’s bounty — are unwilling to fight under Satan’s banner.

 

There are many who “claim to know God — but by their actions they deny Him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good.” Man is not what he says — but what he does. For a man to say what he does — and not to do what he says — is to resemble those trees which are full of leaves — but void of fruits; or those barns wherein there is much chaff — but no wheat. “There is a difference between chaff and wheat! — says the Lord.”

 

Ah, how intolerable will the punishment of those professors be — who have appeared as burnished gold to men — and are found only base metal in the sight of God! What will it profit, to put off the old manners — and not put off the old man? A snake may change its skin — and yet preserve its sting. The gospel professed, may lift a man unto Heaven — but it is only the gospel possessed, that brings a man into Heaven. To profess piety — and yet to practice impiety — will be so far from advancing a man’s commendation, that it will assuredly heighten his condemnation!

 

“Why do you call Me, Lord, Lord — and do not do the things that I say?” As if He had said, “Either keep My words more — or else call Me Lord no more! Either take Me into your lives — or cast Me out of your lips.” As princes disdain to have their images on base counterfeits — so the Lord Jesus cannot delight to see His name on rotten hypocrites. Therefore He says, “Let everyone who names the name of Christ, depart from all iniquity.” If godliness is evil — why is it so much professed? If godliness is good — why is it so little practiced?

 

“Who has saved us — and called us with a holy calling.” Now a holy calling — will be attended with a holy carriage. Many may be found who can talk of grace — but very few can be found who taste of grace. It is not everyone who looks like a Christian — who lives like a Christian. For there are some who make their boast of the law, and yet through breaking the law, they dishonor God. It is a greater glory to us, that we are allowed to serve God — than it is to Him, that we offer Him that service. He is not rendered happy by us — but we are made happy by Him. He can do without such earthly servants — but we cannot do without such a heavenly Master.

 

It is unnatural for a Christian’s tongue — to be larger than his hand. It is lamentable for him to hold a lamp to others — and yet to walk in darkness himself. There are more infected by the undue conduct of some — than there are instructed by the righteous doctrines of others. He who gives proper precepts, and then sets improper examples, resembles that foolish person, who labors hard to kindle a fire, and when he has done it, throws cold water upon it to quench it. Though such a physician may administer the reviving cordial to some fainting patient — yet he is in danger himself of dying in a swoon. I may say of such professors, as was once said of a certain preacher, that “when he was in the pulpit, it was a pity he should ever leave it — for he was so excellent an instructor. But when he was out of the pulpit, it was a pity he should ever ascend it again — for he was so wretched a liver!”

 

Many people are offended with the profession of religion, because all are not truly pious who make a profession. A little consideration will correct this error. Does the sheep despise its fleece, because the wolf has worn it? Who blames a crystal river — because some melancholy men have drowned themselves in its streams? Will you refuse medicine — because some have wantonly poisoned themselves with it? He is a bad steward, who having a spot in his garment, cuts off the cloth, instead of rubbing off the dirt. God rejects all religion — but His own.

 

4. Another reason why Christians do more than others, is — Because they are inwardly CONFORMED to the image of their Redeemer more than others.

 

As Jesus Christ is the fountain of all excellency — to which all must come; so He is the pattern of excellency — to which all must conform. As He is the root on which a saint grows; so He is the rule by which a saint walks. God has made one Son in the image of us all — that He might make all His sons in the image of that One. Jesus Christ lived to teach us how to live — and died to teach us how to die. Therefore He commands us, saying, “Learn of Me — for I am meek and lowly in heart — and you shall find rest unto your souls.” O Reader! if the life of Christ is not your pattern — the death of Christ will never be your pardon! Though the Lord Jesus was a Man of many sorrows — yet He was not a man of the least sin. No man can equalize Him in holiness; yet every man ought to imitate Him in holiness.

 

As the sun is the glory of creation — so is Christ the glory of redemption. The summit of true religion consists in imitating God. Without this, your religion will be found a Tekel — when it is weighed in the balance, it will be wanting. It would be well if there were as great a similarity between the life of Christ — and the life of Christians; as there is between a copy and the original. What He was by nature — that we should be by grace. As face answers to face in water — so should life answer to life in Scripture. He who was a Way to others — never went out of the way Himself.

 

A truly pious life, is a looking-glass, wherein Christ sees His own likeness. In our sacramental participations, we show forth the death of Christ; and in our evangelical conversation, we show forth the life of Christ. An excellent Christ — calls for excellent Christians. As He was never unemployed, He was never ill-employed. For, “He went about doing good.” As our happiness lay near His heart — so His honor should lie near our hearts.

 

Jesus Christ even submits His person to be judged by His actions: “If I do not the works of My Father — do not believe Me.” As if He had said, “Never take Me for a Savior — if I act contrary to a Savior.” Thus should it be with a professor, “Never take me for a Christian — if I live contrary to the life of a Christian.” If professors do no more than others, it might be said, “Those are professors; but not Christians.”

 

Man is naturally an aspiring being, and loves to be nearest to those who are highest. Why does he not therefore take as much delight in those precepts which enjoin holiness — as in those promises which ensure happiness?

 

All those who are conformed to the image of the Redeemer, are as willing to be ruled by Christ, as they are to be esteemed by Him. He who deems His yoke heavy — will not find His crown easy.

 

By David’s language, there were many singular saints in his day: “To the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight.” Was it so then? And should it not be so now? We know the New Testament outshines the Old, as much as the sun outshines the moon. If we then live in a more glorious dispensation, should we not maintain a more glorious conversation?

 

How blessed would it be for us, to have that blessed Scripture fulfilled in us, “As He was — so are we in this world.” Now if we are in this world as He was — we shall be in Heaven as He is! If there be no likeness between Christ and you on earth — there can be no friendship between Christ and you in Heaven!

 

5. Another reason why Christians should do more than others, is — Because they are WATCHED more than others.

 

If once a man commences to be a professor — the eyes of all are upon him; and well they may, for his profession in the world, is a separation from the world. Believers condemn those by their lives — who condemn them by their lips! Righteous David saw many who were waiting to triumph in his mistakes. Hence the more they watched — the more he prayed: “Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path, because of my enemies.” It may be rendered, “because of my observers.”

 

Christian, if you dwell in the open tent of licentiousness — the wicked will not walk backward, like modest Shem and Japheth, to cover your shame; but they will walk forward, like cursed Ham, to publish it. Thus they make use of your weakness — as a plea for their wickedness.

 

Men are merciless in their censures of Christians! They have no sympathy for their infirmity. But God weighs them in more equal scales, and says, “The spirit is willing — but the flesh is weak.” While the saint is a dove in the eyes of God — he is only a raven in the estimation of sinners. Consider Christian — that an unholy life strips off the rich ornamental jewels from the neck of the bride, the Lamb’s wife! Sin indulged in a believer, is like a rent in a richly embroidered garment; or like a crack in a golden bell. A foul spot is soonest discerned — in the fairest cloth. The world will sooner make an excuse for its own enormities — than for your infirmities.

 

The behavior of some professors has often given the wicked an opportunity to reproach true religion. Lactantius reports, that the heathens were accustomed to say, “The Master could not be good — when His disciples were so bad.” The malice of sinners is such, that they will reproach the rectitude of God’s Word — for the blemishes of the lives of professors who swerve from it. O that your pure life, did but hang a padlock upon their impure lips! Such will ever be throwing the dirt of professors — upon the face of profession!

 

If the sun is eclipsed one day — it attracts more spectators than if it shone a whole year! So if you commit one sin — it will cause you many sorrows — and the world many triumphs. Dr. Whitaker, on reading the Sermon on the Mount, broke out, saying, “either this is not the gospel — or we are not of the gospel.” The cruelty of the Spaniards to the Indians, made them refuse Christian baptism, “For,” said they, “He must be a wicked God, who has such wicked servants!” O that God’s jewels would sparkle more — in this benighted world!

 

That was a glorious eulogy given to Zacharias and Elizabeth: “And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord, blameless.” God made them both righteous — and then men saw them righteous. Their religion was undefiled before God — and their lives were unspotted from the world.

 

Reader! would you be righteous in God’s sight? Then you must be righteous in God’s Son. Would you be unspotted from the world? Then remember, you are not of the world. When the godly are left to fall, then the envious sinner will exclaim, “So that is your religion!” No wonder if a Barbarian gives the alarm — when the leprosy is in an Israelitish house.

 

6. Another reason why believers should do more than others, is — Because if they do no more — it will appear that they are no more than others.

 

As there is no man so vicious — but some good may be performed by him to man; so there is no one so religious — but some evil may be committed by him against God. As one bird does not prove the approach of summer — neither does one good action prove a man to be a believer. There is in every being a natural tendency to some center. God is the center of the saints — and glory is the center of grace. Now where we do not discover that bias towards grace — we may deny the being of grace.

 

Reader! would you be thought more than tax collectors and sinners? Then beware of living as tax collectors and sinners! Jesus Christ gives you an excellent mirror in His memorable sermon upon the mount, for you to behold your own likeness in: “You shall know them by their fruits.” There is no ascertaining the quality of a tree — but by its fruits. When the wheels of a clock move within — the hand on the dial will move without. When the heart of a man is sound in conversion — then the life will be fair in profession. How shall we judge of the well — but by the waters which run through the pipes?

 

As a sinner will reveal the good he desires; so a saint will show the good he enjoys. When the sun dawns upon the earth, it is presently known; and when the Sun of righteousness arises upon the heart — it cannot be hidden. It is said of the Savior, that “He could not be hidden.” As it is with the Head — so it is with the members: “You are the light of the world. Let your light so shine among men, that they may see your good works.” When Saul was made a sovereign, he had another spirit poured out upon him; a spirit of government, for a place of government: and when a sinner is made a saint, he has also another spirit poured out upon him. As he is what he was not — so he does what he did not.

 

It is reported of a harlot, that when she saw a certain person with whom she had committed immorality, she renewed her enticements; to whom he replied, “I am not now what I once was!” Though she was the same woman that she was before — yet he was not the same man he was before.

 

Were the sun to give no more light than a star, you could not believe he was the regent of the day; were he to transmit no more heat than a glow-worm, you would question his being the source of earthly heat. Were God to do no more than a creature — where would His Godhead be? Were a man to do no more than a brute — where would his manhood be? Were not a saint to excel the sinner — where would his sanctity be?

 

Professor, if you live and walk as a worldling, you subject yourself to that apostolic rebuke, “Are you not carnal — and walk as men?” If men debase themselves as beasts — the Lord will denominate them beasts. If professors live like other men — God will call them unregenerate men. There is no passing for current coin in Heaven — without the stamp and signature of Heaven.

 

7. The disciples of Christ do more than others — Because they are appointed to be JUDGES of others.

 

If you consult the Holy Scriptures, you will find that both the Father, the Son — and the saints are to judge the world. The ordination is the Father’s, the execution is the Son’s, and the approbation is the saints’. This shall no more derogate from the honor of Christ, than the sessions of the justices derogate from the authority of the judges.

 

When the apostle Paul would quash the sinful suits among the believing Corinthians, he informed them that they did not so much require men of eminence to terminate their controversy, as men of godliness. “Do you not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the smallest matters? If you are to judge in causes between God and man — how much more in controversies between man and man?” If about matters that are eternal — why not in affairs that are temporal?

 

Felons may be jovial in the prison, and bold at the bar — but they will tremble at the hangman’s halter. When wicked men come like miserable captives out of their holes, the godly shall rise like an unclouded sun above the horizon of the grave.

 

There is a cloud of witnesses to prove the Christian’s judicial process — Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousand of His saints, to execute judgment upon all.” Again he says, “When the Son of man shall sit in the throne of His glory, you also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” Now the world judges the godly — but then the godly shall judge the world. The act of the Head is imputed to the members, and the act of the members is acknowledged by the Head.

 

Reader! in the great day there will be no distinction made between him who now sits on the bench, and him who stands at the bar. Tell me — how will you be capable of passing a righteous sentence on others, for those evils which you have lived in the constant commission of? The true Christian can cordially subscribe to that ancient maxim, “Because I enjoy the greatest share of religious majesty, I am therefore entitled to the least share of licentious liberty.” It was once said to Caesar, “Seeing all things are lawful to Caesar, therefore it is the less lawful for Caesar to do them.”

 

“By faith Noah, being warned of God, prepared an ark — by which he condemned the world.” Noah’s believing set him to prosecute his building. Thus the consistent Christian judges the world, both by his faith and his practice.

 

Christian Reader! remember, that the gospel purity of your life — shows to worldlings the impurity of theirs. The usual prejudices which the world has against religion, is — that it makes no man better, though it may make some men stricter.

 

We too frequently behold that those who exclaim against the pride of others — are as proud as others. As they so constantly meet together, they are expected to be more godly — but they are not more godly for their meeting together. Take away their profession, and you take away their religion. They have nothing belonging to the sheep — but its skin.

 

Mark, how the God of Israel expostulates with the professing Israel of God, “Has a nation changed their gods, which are yet no gods? but My people have changed their glory for that which does not profit.” Here is a professing people, outdone by a people who made no profession. If heathens take up their gods — they will zealously keep up their gods. They were true to the false gods — while Israel was false to the true God.

 

“Hear, O heavens, and be astonished, O earth!” Why, what is the matter? “Even the animals — the donkey and the ox — know their owner and appreciate his care — but not My people Israel. No matter what I do for them, they still do not understand.” God does not call in a jury of angels to condemn them — but He calls a jury of oxen and donkeys, to pass sentence upon them. Alas, that oxen and donkeys should be more religious — than men who professed religion! In their kind they are more kind. If their owners feed them, they readily own their owners.

 

8. And lastly, the disciples of Christ do more than others — Because they EXPECT more than others.

 

A true hope of Heaven — excites an utter dislike to the earth. “And every man that has this hope in him purifies himself, even as He is pure.” Hope is too pure a plant — to flourish or grow in an impure soil.

 

Reader! you must not expect to toil for the prince of darkness all the long day of your life — and then sup with the Prince of light at the evening of death. There is no going from Delilah’s lap—to Abraham’s bosom. It is not the tyrannic reign of sin in your mortal body — which makes way for the triumphant reign of your soul in eternal glory. Grace is such a pilot, as without its steerage you will certainly suffer shipwreck in your voyage to everlasting tranquility.

There is no gaining admittance into the King of Heaven’s privy chamber of felicity — without passing through the strait gate of purity. “Blessed are the pure in heart — for they shall see God.” A dirty looking-glass will not clearly represent the face. To look for a Turkish paradise, is to conceive of the Heaven of purity — as a house of impurity; but while they expect to bathe themselves in carnal pleasures — you should look to be the chaste and happy consort of the Lamb!

 

The Lord’s gratuitous bestowments on saints — awaken the grateful sentiments of saints. “Giving thanks unto the Father — Who has made us fit to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.” Men commonly season the vessel with water — before they trust it with costly wine. Thus God will season the vessel of your heart with His grace — before He pours into it the wine of His glory. It is hard to say, whether God discovers more love in preparing Heavenly mansions for the soul — than in preparing the soul for Heavenly mansions.

 

Reader! if the Lord has made you a true believer, you earnestly desire that your present deportment may be suitable to your future preferment. You know there is no living a wicked life — and dying a righteous death. As divine justice crushes none on earth before they are corrupted — so divine mercy crowns none in Heaven before they are converted.

 

Holiness and happiness are so wisely joined together — that God will never allow them to be put asunder: “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” Though holiness is that which a sinner scorns — yet it is that which a Savior crowns.

 

The soul of man is the Lord’s casket, and grace the jewel. Now, wherever the jewel is not found — the casket will be thrown away. Though the wheat is for a garner — yet the chaff is for the fire. The Scripture presents you, not only, with an account of what God will do for a Christian — but also what a Christian will do for God.

 

The high prize of heavenly bliss, is at the end of the gospel race: “So run — that you may obtain.” To neglect the race of holiness, is to reject the prize of happiness. He who made you without your assistance — will not crown you until He has saved you from your disobedience.

 

It would be well for fruitless sinners, were they seriously to consider that fearful Scripture: “Every tree that doesn’t produce good fruit — is cut down and thrown into the fire!” If you are not fruit-bearing plants — you must be burning brands. There is no making out your salvation, where there is no working out your salvation. Men are condemned, not only for their profaneness — but also for their slothfulness. Men may perish for being unprofitable servants, as well as for being abominable servants.

 

The Lord binds none in the bundle of life — but such as are heirs of life. “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as you know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” How cheerfully should those cast in their net — who are sure to enclose so excellent a catch of fish!

 

Reader! why do you expect more than others in Heaven — if grace has not made you more than others on earth? “If you love those who love you — what reward do you have?” It is but natural, that love should be returned to those from whom it has been received. Now, natural works — shall have only natural wages. If you would not have God put you off with a Pharisee’s portion — how can you put Him off with a Pharisee’s performance?

 

The Lord hangs the bait of duty — upon the hook of mercy. He sets the promises of the gospel — in the galleries of His ordinances. The hardy soldier will undergo a bloody seed time — to enjoy a happy harvest. He has nothing more than earthly mammon in his pursuit — but the saint has nothing less than Heavenly mansions in his pursuit.

 

Thus have I dispatched the first general head, namely, WHY the disciples of Christ do more than others. I therefore come secondly to consider,

 

 

II. WHAT a Christian does more than others.
And here I shall form a golden chain of twenty links — for believers to wear about their necks.

 

1. The first singular action of a consistent Christian, is to do much good — and make but little noise.

 

Some people say much — and do nothing. But Christians do much — and say nothing. To deserve praise where none is obtained — is better than to obtain praise where none is deserved. The old maxim is worthy to be revived — he who desires honor, is not worthy of honor.

 

“Be careful not to do your ‘acts of righteousness’ before men — to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in Heaven.” A saint may be seen doing more works than any — and yet he does not desire to do any of the works to be seen. An alms which is seen, is by no means unpleasant to God, provided it be not given with a design to have it seen. Though good ends do not make bad actions lawful; yet bad ends make good actions sinful. The harp sounds sweetly; yet it hears not its own melody. Moses had more glory by his veil — than he had by his face. It is truly pleasant to behold those living in the dust of humility — who have raised others from the dust by their liberality.

 

That ancient caution of our Savior is very suitable to modern times: “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.” What the first verse calls doing to be seen by men, this calls doing to receive honor from men.

 

Hypocrites would never be anxious for men to see them — but that by seeing them — men should praise them. The indigent are more indebted to their vanity — than their charity. They give alms, not so much for the poor to live upon — as for the rich to look upon. This is employing the master’s coin — for the servant’s gain. Hypocrites are more zealous for the market — than for the closet. They can pray better in the corners of the streets — than in the corners of their houses.

 

It is both food and drink to a formalist to fast — if others do but see it. It is reported, that the nightingale never sings so sweetly — as when others stand by to hear its melody. “Come — see my zeal for the Lord!” when there was no zeal for the Lord to be seen. Jehu only made religion a stirrup — to mount upon the saddle of popularity. Sounding souls are seldom souls that are sound. The boast of a Jehu is always linked to the heart of a Judas. Some people are like hens — which no sooner drop their eggs than they begin to chatter. If such bestow a little money on a church’s repairs — it must be recorded upon a church plaque.

 

How frequently do the enemies of grace — lurk under the praises of nature! While a hypocrite is extolled — grace is injured. By how much we arrogate to our honor — we derogate from God’s honor. Vain-glory is like Naaman’s leprosy — a foul spot upon a fair paper. What are the acclamations of man — compared to the approbation of God? Of what real advantage is it, to be praised on earth, by those about us — and damned in Heaven, by Him who is above us? One flaw in a diamond diminishes both its splendor and value. Where SELF is the end of our actions — there Satan is the rewarder of them!

 

“But when you give to the needy — do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” Acts of mercy are right hand acts — but the left hand must not know them, because it will make them known. It is a singular thing for Christians to do much in secret — and to keep it secret when it is done. God is nearer to us — than we are to ourselves. We need not sound a trumpet for any ‘acts of righteousness’; for when the great trumpet shall sound — every work shall be revealed.

 

Where the river is the deepest, the water glides the smoothest. Empty casks sound most; whereas the well-fraught vessel, silences its own sound. As the shadow of the sun is largest, when his beams are lowest; so we are always least — when we make ourselves the greatest. Wicked Saul would rather resign his crown — than his honor: “Honor me before the people!” There is little worth in outward splendor — if grace yield it not an inward luster.

 

When the sun of worldly grandeur is in its meridian, it may be masked with a cloud. By climbing too high on the bough of honor — you may hang yourselves on the tree of dishonor. Some would rather suffer the agony of the cross — than the infamy of the cross. It is worse, in their esteem, to be dispraised — than it is to be destroyed. Thus Abimelech, the fratricide, conceived of it: “A woman on the roof threw down a millstone that landed on Abimelech’s head and crushed his skull. He said to his young armor bearer, “Draw your sword and kill me! Don’t let it be said that a woman killed Abimelech!” Poor man, he dies — but his pride does not die!

 

How frequently does God reject those as reprobate silver — whom men esteem as fine gold! “A man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man’s praise is not from men — but from God.” The praise of a hypocrite is not of God — but of man; the praise of a true Israelite is not of man — but of God. The former desires to appear good — that he may be admired. The latter desires to be good — that God may be honored. The self-abased saint on earth, imitates the holy angels in Heaven; while the self-admired sinner on earth, imitates the fallen angels in Hell.

 

The cherubim in Ezekiel’s vision “had the hands of a man under their wings.” They had not their wings under their hands — but their hands under their wings. Their hands denoted skill, their wings denote celerity. Their hands under their wing’s, denote the secrecy of their actions. They would not have others fall down and worship them, who were only around the throne — but they fell down themselves to worship Him, who is upon the throne!

 

It was foretold of our Lord Jesus Christ, who did the most excellent works that ever were done, that “He will not cry out or shout or make His voice heard in the streets.” “He will not cry out,” that is — He would not be contentious. “He will not shout or make His voice heard in the streets,” that is — He would not be vain-glorious.

 

How repugnant to this, was the conduct of the boasting Pharisee. “The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself — ‘God, I thank you, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector.’” Hypocrites are better in setting forth their own worth — than their own wants; in displaying the banners of their perfections — than in revealing the heinousness of their own transgressions. “I am not as other men are!” As if he had been such a fellow — as had had no fellow. Because he was not so bad as most — he thought himself as good as the best. Ambition is so great a planet — that it must have a whole orbit to move in. Ambition is envious of its equals.

 

A sun-burned face seems fair, compared with an Ethiopian — but ciphers can never constitute a sum. This Pharisee was as far from being religious, as he was from being scandalous. But upon what foundation did he rear his superstructure? “I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.” He proclaims all out of doors — which was done within doors. He forgot that he was like the sea — which loses as much on one shore as it gains on another. He hid his sins — which he should have confessed; and he published his good deeds — which he should have concealed.

 

What victory a formalist seemingly obtains over one lust — he loses, by being overcome by another. He trades, not for God’s glory — but for his own vain-glory. If a tear is shed, or a prayer is made, as it is performed by him — so it is divulged by him. He who traffics in God’s service, to freight himself with man’s praises — shall suffer shipwreck in the haven!

 

It is reported of Alexander’s footman, that he ran so swift upon the sand, that the prints of his footsteps were not to be seen. Thus may it be with Christians. Nothing is more pleasing to God, than a hand liberally opened — and a tongue strictly silent!

 

Most people are like Themistocles, who never found himself so much contented as when he heard himself praised. I will not say a gracious heart never lifts up itself in pride — but I will say, that grace in the heart never lifts it up. Grace in the heart constantly acts like itself — but a gracious heart does not always do so.

 

Saints should resemble a spire steeple, which is smallest where it is highest; or those orient stars, which the higher they are seated — the less they are seen. Usually the greatest boasters — are the smallest workers. The deep rivers pay a larger tribute to the sea than shallow brooks — and yet empty themselves with less noise. What will a hypocrite not do — so he might but see his own signet upon it when it is done!

 

2. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to bring up the bottom of his life — to the top of his light.

 

By how far our hearts are set upon God’s precepts — to love them; by so far are God’s ears set upon our prayers — to answer them. David knew this when he said, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” Since the tree of knowledge has been tasted — the key of knowledge has been rusted.

 

Therefore, “The natural man receives not the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” Spiritual truths oppose the wickedness of human reason — because they are against it, and therefore it cannot receive them. Spiritual truths also exceed the weakness of human reason — because they are above it, therefore it cannot perceive them. It is better to be a toe in the foot — and that be sound; than to be an eye in the head — and that be blind.

 

There is a great propriety in the exhortation of Peter, “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” No knowledge can equal that of Christ; no growth can equal that of grace. Without grace, there may be seeming knowledge — but without grace, there can be no saving knowledge.

 

There were more enlightened, than enlivened, in the days of Christ; hence He said, “If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.” To obey the truth, and not to know it — is impossible. To know the truth, and not obey it — is unprofitable. For, “Not everyone who says unto me, ‘Lord, Lord’ shall enter into the kingdom of Heaven — but he who does the will of My Father who is in Heaven.” Saving knowledge is not as the light of the moon — to sleep by; but as the light of the sun — to work by. It is not a loiterer in the market-place — but a laborer in the vineyard.

 

A man may be a great scholar — and yet be a great sinner. Judas the traitor — was Judas the preacher! The snake which has a pearl in its head — has poison in its body! The tree of knowledge has often been planted, and flourished — where the tree of life never grew. A man may be acquainted with the grace of truth, and yet not know the truth of grace. All abilities and gifts — without grace and holiness — are but like Uriah’s letters, which were the death warrants of him who carried them!

 

Mere head knowledge will be as unhelpful to the soul, in the judgment day — as a painted fire is unhelpful to the frozen body, in a cold day. As some articles are tanned by the same sun in which others are whitened — so are some professors hardened under the same gospel by which others are softened.

 

I would never have that the brand of Christians, which was the bane of heathens, “Though they knew God — they did not glorify Him as God.” As it is lost labor to smite the flint — if it disperses no sparks; so it is fruitless toil to furnish our heads with light — if it does not refine our hearts. Satan may as well put out our eyes — that we should not see the truth; as cut off our feet — that we should not walk in the truth. Mere theoretical knowledge may make the head giddy — but it will never make the heart holy.

 

Who would wait for such a gale, as would drive them farther from the desired haven? or freight their vessels with such a cargo, as would ruin the owner? Shall we hold the candle of the gospel in one hand — and the sword of rebellion in the other? How many professors are there, who have light enough to know what should be done — but have not love enough to do what they know! Such people have no advantage from carrying a bright candle in a dark lantern. Give me the Christian who perfectly sees the way he should go — and readily goes the way he sees!

 

That is barren ground — which brings forth no fruit. “To him who knows to do good, and does it not — to him it is sin.” The sins of ignorance are most numerous — but the sins of knowledge are most dangerous! That sinner’s darkness will be the greatest in Hell — whose light was the clearest on earth!

 

Pharnaces, the Prince of Pontus, sent a crown to Caesar, at the time he was in rebellion against him. Caesar refused the present, saying, “Let him first lay down his rebellion, and then I will receive his crown.” There are many who set a crown of glory upon the head of Christ by a good profession, and yet put a crown of thorns upon His head by an evil conversation. By the words of our mouth — we may affect to adore religion; but it is by the works of our lives — that we adorn religion.

 

It was a just saying of one, “That in the best reformed churches, there were the most deformed professors.” Look to this, reader — that all will be pulled down without you — if there be no grace set up within you. As trees without fruits are unprofitable — so knowledge without good works is abominable! Leah and Rachel are fit emblems of knowledge and obedience. Knowledge, like Rachel, is beautiful — but obedience, like Leah, is fruitful. He who dislikes to do what he knows — will one day not know what to do.

 

“Be wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” Wise as serpents to guard against the wolf’s rapacity; and harmless as doves that you may do no man any injury. Thus, the serpent’s eye is an ornament when placed in the dove’s head. The lives of many professors are awfully unlike their lights. They have the light of the sun — for wisdom; but lack the heat of a candle — for grace and holiness.

 

I have read of a painter, who being warmly reprehended by a cardinal, for putting too much red in the faces of St. Paul and St. Peter, answered, “It is to show how much they blush at the conduct of many who style themselves their successors!” Were Abraham the father of the faithful, now on earth, how would he disclaim all relation to many who call themselves his offspring! Though there was less grace revealed to the saints of old — yet there was more grace manifested by them. They knew little — and did much; we know much — and do little.

 

John the Baptist “was a burning and a shining light” To shine is not enough, a glow-worm will do so; to burn is not enough, a firebrand will do so. Light without heat — does but little good; and heat without light — does much harm. Give me those Christians who are burning lamps — as well as shining lights.

 

The sun is as vigorous in his moving — as he is illustrious in his shining. I know the light of nature requires grace, to repel the lusts of nature. Will any say, “The day of hope is dawning within them — when the powers of darkness are ruling over them?”

 

How monstrous is it to see a Christian’s tongue larger than his hand! To speak so much of God, to others — and act so little for God, himself.

 

3. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to prefer the duty he owes to God — to the danger he fears from man!

 

Christians in all ages have prized their services — above their safety. “The wicked flee, when no man pursues — but the righteous are bold as a lion!” The fearful hare trembles at every noise — but the courageous lion is unmoved by the greatest clamors. Were believers to shrink back at every contrary wind which blows — they would never make their voyage to Heaven.

 

“My righteousness I hold fast — and will not let it go.” Poor Job could hold nothing fast — but his integrity. Grace kept his heart — when he could not keep his gold. Uprightness is so fair a complexion, as not to be subject to any alteration by the scorching beams of persecution. The laurel preserves its verdure amidst the severest blasts of winter. Times of trouble have often been — times of triumph to a believer. Suffering seasons have generally been sifting seasons — in which the Christian has lost his chaff, and the hypocrite his courage!

 

Dangers have frequently made the worldling leave his duties. The scythe of persecution — cuts down the tender grass of his devotion. Those who always refuse to carry the yoke of Christ upon their necks — will also refuse to carry the cross of Christ upon their backs. Nothing less than the enjoyment of God, who is altogether good — can permanently support us under the suffering of that which is evil. The flesh is an enemy to suffering; because suffering is an enemy to the flesh. The flesh may make a man an earthly courtier — but it will never make a man a Christian martyr.

 

Wicked men stumble at every straw in the way to Heaven — but they climb over mountains in the way to destruction! Hang heavy weights on rotten boughs — and they will suddenly break. If mere professors take up religion in a fair day — they will eagerly lay it down in a foul one. The language of such is “Lord, we are willing to serve You — but unwilling to suffer for You. We will go to sea with You — but on condition we have no storms. We have no objections to enter into the war — but upon the promise that we have no fighting!” Such would gladly be wafted to the port of felicity — in such vessels as would not be tossed in the sea of calamity! They think too much of wearing a thorn — though it is borrowed from Christ’s crown!

 

There are some who would sacrifice a stout heart — to a stubborn will; and would rather die martyrs for their sins — than servants for the truth. How shall those stand for Christ — who never stood in Christ? True believers are more studious how to adorn the cross — than how to avoid the cross. They deem it better to be saved in troubled water — than to be drowned in a calm ocean!

 

Temporary professors are like hedge-hogs which have two holes; one to the north and another to the south; when the south wind chaffs them — they turn to the north; and when the north wind chills them — they turn to the south. Thus they lose their activity to preserve their security. That was a beggarly saying which fell from a prince’s lips, “I will sail no farther in the cause of Christ — than while I can preserve my safe retreat to land.”

 

Man is a short-sighted creature; he is afraid to follow too far upon the heels of truth — lest it should lead him into danger. Weak grace may do for God — but it must be strong grace which will die for God. A true Christian will lay down his lusts — at the command of Christ; and his life — for the cause of Christ. The more a tree of righteousness is shaken by the wind — the more it is rooted in the ground. What, are you a member of Christ — and afraid to be a martyr for Christ? If those are blessed who die in Christ — what must they be who die for Christ!

 

What though the flesh returns to dust — so long as the spirit returns to Heaven? What is the body of man, for a soul to live in — compared with the bosom of Abraham, for a soul to lie in? Righteous Abel, the first martyr in the church militant, was the first saint in the church triumphant. He offered up a sacrifice — when the altar was sprinkled with his own blood. As his body was the first which ever went into the earth — so his soul was the first which ever went into Heaven!

 

“Should such a man as I flee?” says Nehemiah — a man so much owned and honored by God? It is better to die a conqueror in religion, than to live a coward in religion. Those who are willing to be combatants for God — shall also be more than conquerors through God. None are so truly courageous — as those who are truly religious. If a Christian lives — he knows by whose might he stands; and if he dies — he knows for whose sake he falls. Where there is no confidence in God — there will be no continuance with God. When the wind of faith ceases to fill the sails — the ship of obedience ceases to plough the seas! The taunts of Ishmael — shall never make an Isaac disesteem his inheritance.

 

Reader! if a righteous cause brings you into sufferings — a righteous God will bring you out of sufferings. A Christian is as much indebted to his enemies — as to his friends. The malicious crucifixion of Christ — wrought out the glorious exaltation of Christ. The worst that men can do against believers — is the best they can do for believers. The worst they can do against them — is to send them out of the earth; and the best they can do for them — is to send them into Heaven!

 

That was a Christian expression of one of the martyrs to his persecutors, “You take a life from me, which I cannot keep — and bestow a life upon me, which I cannot lose! This is as if you should rob me of my pennies — and load me with diamonds!” He who is assured of a heavenly life which has no end — need not care how soon this earthly life shall end!

 

Neither the persecuting hand of men, nor the chastising hand of God — relaxed ancient singular saints. “All this happened to us, yet we had not forgotten You or been false to Your covenant. Our hearts had not turned back; our feet had not strayed from Your path.” Believers resemble the moon, which emerges from her eclipse by keeping her motion; and ceases not to shine, because the dogs bark at her. Shall we cease to be professors, because others will not cease to be persecutors?

 

By the seed of the serpent — the heel of the woman may be bruised — but by the seed of the woman — the head of the serpent shall be broken! A Christian may enjoy a calm of inward peace — while he sustains the storms of outward trouble. If he enjoys the former — he may expect the latter. If he suffers the latter — he may expect the former. There is no summer without its winter.

 

“Many waters” (may drown the world, but) “cannot quench love.” The water of affliction cannot extinguish the fire of affection. If true religion goes against their lusts, formalists will quickly shut up their hearts against it. They will rather tarry out of the land of Canaan — than swim to it through the Red Sea. A man will never sustain trouble for Jesus — until he finds rest in Jesus.

 

Adventurous Peter could cry, “Lord! if it is You — bid me come to You on the water.” Love to Christ can walk on the water without drowning, and lie in the fire without burning. It is said of the serpent, “That it cares not to what danger it exposes its body — so long as it can but secure its head.” Thus a Christian cares not to what danger he is liable, so long as Jesus is but honored thereby.

 

Paul, who turned the world upside-down, could not be turned upside-down by the world. “None of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself; so that I might finish my course with joy.” A saint is inwardly pious — when he is not outwardly prosperous. The sharper the medicine is — the sounder the patient is for its operation. The higher the flood swells on earth — the nearer the ark mounts to Heaven.

 

God can strike straight strokes — with crooked sticks; and make Satan’s dross burnish His choice vessels. Christians are crucified by the world — that they might be crucified to the world. God makes it their enemy — that He might make them enemies to it. Religion is that phoenix which has always flourished in its own ashes. While reprobates attack the truth with their sword — martyrs defend it with their blood. The loss of their heads — hastens the reception of their crowns.

 

We would never land in triumph at the haven of rest — if we were not tossed upon the sea of trouble. If Joseph had not been Egypt’s prisoner — he would never have been Egypt’s governor. The iron chains about his feet — ushered in the golden chains about his neck. Temporal losses are only gentle breezes — but eternal losses are insupportable storms.

 

Reader! tell me, is not Christ, with His cross for a few years — better than Dives, with his dainties for a few days? What comparison is there between the short-lived happiness of the wicked — attended with everlasting misery; and the short-lived misery of the righteous — attended with everlasting happiness?

 

4. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is — To seek the public good of others above the private good of himself.

 

The sentiment of Plato, a heathen, is worthy to be adopted by every Christian, “I was not born for myself alone; for my country claims a part, my relations claim a part, and my friends claim a part in me.” As we are not born by ourselves — so we are not born for ourselves.

 

Baruch, the man of God, was forbidden to make SELF the center of his wishes, “Are you seeking great things for yourself? Seek them not!” For saints to set their hearts — upon that whereon beasts set their feet; is as if a king should abdicate his throne — to follow the plough; or, as if a man should desert a golden mine — to dig in a pit of gravel. When we hide ourselves — it denotes that we are virtuous; but when we seek ourselves — it denotes that we are covetous.

 

I am unwilling to draw a defective feature in any man’s picture; yet how many are there, who have occupied public places — with private aspirations! While they pretended to undertake everything for the good of others; it has appeared, that they undertook nothing but for the good of themselves. Such suckers at the roots — have drawn away the sap and nourishment from the tree. They have set kingdoms on fire — that they might roast their own venison at the flames. These drones stealing into the hive — have fed upon the honey; while the laboring bees have been famished! Too many resemble ravenous birds, which at first seem to bewail the dying sheep — but at last, are found picking out their eyes!

 

There is a proverb — but none of Solomon’s, “Every man for himself — and God for us all.” But where every man is for himself — the devil will have all. Whoever is a seeker of himself — is not found of God. Though he may find himself in this life — he will lose himself in eternity.

 

The public spirit of Seneca is a sharp censure to many private-spirited Christians; “I would so live,” said he, “as if I knew I received my being only for the benefit of others.” How justly might that complaint be taken up, which was so sadly laid down by Paul, “All men seek their own — not the things of Jesus Christ.” If some heathens excel Christians — it is not because Christianity does not surpass heathenism. A selfish man will not sow his seed — unless he reap the whole harvest! Nor will he plant the vines — unless he presses all the grapes into his own vessel. The wheel of his diligence will not move — unless the oil of profit is in it. It may be said to many, as a great personage once said to his servant; “your rise has been my fall.”

 

If Dives is tormented — because he refused to impart his own goods; what shall their torment be — who take that which is another’s! If those fingers are cut off, which so closely grasp their own property; what will become of those hands, which are always open to grasp at other men’s property!

 

It was Israel’s lamentation — that those who were once clad in scarlet — now embraced the dunghill. It may now be England’s lamentation — that many who once embraced the dunghill, are now by injustice, clothed in scarlet. Every man’s private interest — is best secured in the pubic good. A drop of water will soon be dried up if alone — but, in the ocean, it will retain its moisture. A single beam of light is suddenly obscured — but in the body of the sun, it retains its splendor.

 

Too many, in all ages, have turned a common weal — into a common woe. They have spun themselves superfine suits, out of the nation’s fleece. Many noble birds have been deplumed — that their wings might be richly feathered. When any springs have been opened — they have laid pipes to convey the water into their own cisterns. Such pretended pilots have steered the ship of plenty into their own haven — but God’s justice will certainly squeeze such sponges, and leave them as dry at last as they were at first. All those moths shall be destroyed — which eat into other men’s garments.

 

For a man to advance his interest, out of another’s property — is to keep all the meat in his mouth, and starve all the body beside. Naturally, every man is his own Alpha and his own Omega. He has his beginning from himself — and his ending in himself.

 

That was a morose speech of Cain to the Almighty: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” He thought it was not his duty to be his brother’s keeper — but did not consider that it was against his duty to be his brother’s assassin. There are many who will not be their brother’s keepers, and yet will be their butchers. They have riveted themselves to their possessions by the bones of their murdered brethren; and paved causeways to honor with the skulls of honest men.

 

Self-seeking has been so long pulling the ropes, that it has rung the death-bell of many nations. It is sad to see the house in flames, while the chamber is being furnished; the ship sinking, while the cabin is filling; or the tree falling, while the nest is a building. But better fruit cannot grow upon the trees of cruelty, than wantonness and oppression. God will compel them to drink the dregs of that cup, which they have so unjustly mingled for others.

 

Queen Esther was a singular saint; for she preferred the public to her private good. “If I perish, I perish!” For how can I endure to see the evil which shall come upon my people? This Israelitess was not more lovely in appearance, than benevolent in her disposition. She did not prefer her own life to her people’s — but her people’s to her own.

 

When Theodosius lay on his dying pillow, he was more studious how to do his kingdom good — than how to sustain his torturing pains; as appears by his counsel to his sons, to whom he left it. “I counsel you to be deeply concerned for the promotion of religion, and the good of man; for by this, peace will be preserved, and wars no more known.”

 

Though the eagle is the queen of birds — yet she was not offered up in sacrifice, because she lived upon the spoil of others. Grace teaches a Christian not only to act like a man to God — but also like a God to man.

 

Our Lord Jesus Christ pleased not Himself; that thereby He might eternally profit us. “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for our sakes He became poor; that you through His poverty might become rich!” A drop of His blood is worth more than a sea of ours! And yet He died our death — that we might live His life; and suffered our Hell — to bring us to His Heaven. He lay in the feeble arms of His mother — that we might lie in the tender bosom of His Father. His love began in His eternal purposes of grace — and ends in our eternal possession of glory.

 

Why was the Bread of Life hungry — but to feed the hungry with the bread of life! Why was Rest itself weary — but to give the weary rest! Why did He hang upon the cross on Mount Calvary — but that we might sit upon the throne on Mount Zion! His glorious face was covered with spittle — that our disfigured faces might be enameled with glory! Why did this Jonah cast Himself into the sea of His Father’s wrath — but to save the ship of His church from sinking! Christ is not only the vessel in which the waters of life are contained — but He is also the pipes through which they are conveyed.

 

If the mountains overflow with moisture — the valleys are the richer; but if the head is full of disease, the whole body is the worse. Happy are those people, whom God will use as brooms, to sweep out the dust from His temple; or who shall tug at an oar, in the boat where Christ and His church are embarked.

 

David was a king who ruled in righteousness, and studied not so much to make himself great — as to make his people happy. For David, after he had served his own generation, by the will of God, fell asleep. His royal services were not swallowed up in the narrow gulf of SELF. He did not draw all his lines — to the ignoble center of his own ends. Such birds are bad in the nest — but worse when they fly abroad. He served his own generation, not the preceding; for that was dead before he was alive; nor the following, for he was dead before that was alive.

 

Every gracious person is benevolent — but not every benevolent person is gracious. An iron key may open a golden treasury; and lead pipes convey pleasant waters. Though earthly blessings may be communicated to a spiritual man — yet spiritual blessings will not be communicated to a carnal man.

 

While meteors keep above in the skies, they yield a pleasing luster — but when they decline, and fall to the earth, they come to nothing.

 

Though the name of the author of Psalm 137 is not recorded; yet his generous disposition should ever be admired. “May my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth if I do not remember you, if I do not exalt Jerusalem as my greatest joy!” Good old Eli mourned more for the loss of religion — than for the loss of his relations. His heart was broken before his neck.

 

Augustus Caesar possessed such an entire attachment to his country, that he called it his own daughter, and refused to be called its master; because he ruled it, not by fear — but by love. After his decease, his disconsolate people lamented over him, saying, “O that he had never lived — or that he had never died!” Those whose lives deserve no praises, their death deserves no tears.

 

A self-seeker lives unrespected — and dies unlamented. When once a man becomes a god to himself, he then becomes a devil to others! Such a one cares not who sinks — so long as he arrives safe at shore. Those execrable wretches, whose conduct is recorded in the book of Acts, cared not whether a whole city lost their souls — so that a few shrine-makers might but preserve their gain.

 

It is reported of Agrippina, the mother of Nero, who being told, that if her son ever came to be an Emperor — he would be her murderer! She made this reply, “I am content to perish, if he may be Emperor.” What she expressed vain-gloriously, that we shall do religiously, “Let us perish — so long as our neighbors, our relations, and our country — is bettered; and the gospel, and the Savior — is honored.” But there are many who entirely reverse this language; if not in words, yet in heart they say, “Let relations, neighbors, country, and religion perish — so long as we are benefited thereby.”

 

Such was the public spirit of Moses, that when the Lord proposed to him to destroy Israel, and to make a great nation of him — he became intercessor for them; yes, even when they were ready to stone him! His affections as a ruler — were stronger than his affections as a father. Thus Joshua, his honorable successor, so far imitated him, that he first divided Canaan into several allotments and portions for the tribes of Israel, before he made any provision for his own family. Give me such carvers as lay not all the meat upon their own dishes!

 

5. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to have the most beautiful lives — among the vilest people.

 

As an ungodly man poisons the air in which he breathes; so he pollutes the age in which he lives. The putrid grape corrupts the sound cluster. Pious Joseph, by living in the court of Pharaoh, had learned to swear by the life of Pharaoh. A high priest’s hall instructed Peter how to deny his suffering Master. Fresh waters lose their sweetness — by gliding into the salt sea. Those who sail among the rocks — are in danger of splitting their ships.

 

When vice runs in a single stream, it is then a fordable shallow — but when many of these meet together, they then swell into a deeper channel. The Lord has appointed from the beginning, that enmity shall exist between the righteous seed of the woman — and the unrighteous seed of the serpent. There can be no harmony — where the musicians will have a jar. It is far better to have the ungodly man’s enmity — than his society. By his enmity — he is most hateful; but by his society — he is most hurtful. A pious man in the company of wicked men — is like a green branch among dry and burning brands; they can sooner kindle him — than he can quench them.

 

As sheep among the thorns injure their fleeces; so saints among sinners do an injury to their graces. Hence it is said, “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? Therefore come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.” To see a saint and a sinner maintaining familiar fellowship with each other — is to behold the living and the dead keeping house together! The godly are more frequently corrupted by the evil deportment of the worldling — than the worldling is refined by the chaste life of the godly.

 

The impious lives of the wicked, are as contagious as the most fearful plague which infects the air. When the pure doves of Christ lie among such filthy pots — their white feathers are sullied. You may observe, that if you mix an equal portion of sour vinegar and sweet wine together; you will find that the vinegar will sooner sour the wine, than the wine sweeten the vinegar.

 

That is a sound body which continues healthful in a pest house. It is a far greater wonder to see a saint maintain his purity among sinners, than it is to behold a sinner becoming pure among saints. Christians are not always like fish — which retain their freshness in the salt sea; or like the rose — which preserves its sweetness among the most foul weeds; or like the fire — which burns the hottest when the season is coldest.

 

A godly man was once heard to lament, “that as often as he went into the company of the wicked, he returned less a man from them than he was before he joined with them.” As it is a difficult thing to touch melting pitch — and not to be defiled; so it is for saints to act toward sinners as to do much good for them — and receive no injury from them. If we cannot help them — it is their unholiness; if they hurt us — it is our unhappiness. The Lord’s people, by keeping evil company, are like people who are much exposed to the sun — insensibly tanned and darkened.

 

Every Christian is a light in the world — though he is not the light of the world. “Let your light shine before men — that they, seeing your good works, may glorify your Father who is in Heaven!” O that Christians were more like the light, which abides pure, though the air in which it dwells is corrupted! Men may defile themselves in the light — but they cannot defile the light itself. The sun shines throughout an impure world, and yet knows no impurity. Ah, how many resemble swine in the fairest meadow; which would break every bound to find the mire! They remind me of impious Judas, who, instead of being a disciple among devils — was a devil among disciples. Poor man, he was all precept — and no example. He could attempt to reprove one, who was innocence itself; and encourage one, who was sin itself.

 

Pious company brings fire to our graces, to kindle them when they are freezing — but impious company brings water to quench them, when they are flaming.

 

It is observed by some, “that the sweetest flowers may be found among the most offensive herbs.” The poets affirm, that “Venus never appeared so beautiful, as when she sat by black Vulcan’s side.” This we are beyond a doubt concerning, that Stephen’s face never shone so gloriously in the church, where he was admired; as in the council, where he was abhorred. Had he been like them — they would not have disliked him. Had not God given him spiritual life — they would never have put him to an ignominious death. How will the fire consume dry fuel, when it prevailed to such a degree over the green.

 

That jewel must be glorious in the sun — which glitters in the shade. There are many men that can match with any men; they can be professors among those that are professors, and scorners among those that are scorners. These are good in conjunction with those that are good — but evil in conjunction with those that are evil. Every man loves to be a man that is beloved — and is apt to take pleasure in them who do take pleasure in him; but take heed of ceasing to be good Christians, that others may think you good companions. It is hard to be conformed to the world in the outward man — and transformed to God in the inward man; to be an outward heathen — and an inward Christian. It is a Spanish proverb, “Tell me but where you go — and I will tell you what you do.” As our English proverb well states, “Birds of a feather — will flock together.” To be too intimate with sinners — is to intimate that you are sinners!

 

“After they were released, they went to their own company.” To whom should believers join — but to believers. There is no trusting the tamest natures; let but the lions out of their fetters — and they will soon show you their bloody natures! How dare you be found lodging — in that house where God Himself is not found dwelling. There is no sleeping with dogs — without swarming with fleas.

 

It is a royal diadem that Christ sets on the head of His spouse. “Like a lily among thorns — is my beloved among the maidens.” There are many thorns that are among the lilies — but few lilies that are among the thorns. How rare a spectacle is it to see a believer keep his purity — in the midst of vanity; to be like Noah — a new man in an old world. If Lot had been polluted with Sodom’s sins — he might have been consumed in Sodom’s flames! It is ill breathing — in an infectious air. Satan’s progeny do not want to go to Hell — without society. A man may pass through Ethiopia and yet be unchanged — but if he remains there, he will be discolored.

 

Church history says of Valens, the Emperor, that by marrying an Arian lady, he was himself ensnared in that wicked opinion. “Then I heard another voice from Heaven say: “Come out of her, My people, so that you will not share in her sins — so that you will not receive any of her plagues!”

 

Where the Catholic Church is fallen away from God — there let us fall away from them. Where such worms breed in the body of a nation — they will be sure to eat out the vitals of true religion. Not to take away such traitors — is to make a nest wherein to hatch their treasons.

 

6. Another singular action of a consistent Christian — is to choose the worst of sorrows — before he will commit the least of sins. The wicked entirely reverse this — for they prefer the greatest sin — to the least sufferings! This is to leap out of the hot pan — into the consuming fire! By seeking to shun an external calamity — they rush into eternal misery! This is as if a man should lose his head — to preserve his hat! Or, as if the mariner should sink the vessel — to avoid the rising storm.

 

Above every evil, we should consider sin as the greatest evil. Sin is the only target — at which all the arrows of divine vengeance are shot! Sinners are those spiders which weave their own webs — and are afterwards entangled in them. Our own destruction — is but the fruit of our own transgression.

 

Sin has every evil united to it. Sin is the fountain and origin of all evils. Thus the prophet viewed it, “Why does a living man complain — for the punishment of his sins?” When man had no evil within him — he had no evil upon him. He began to be sorrowful — when he began to be sinful. When the soul shall be fully released from the guilt of iniquity — the body shall be wholly delivered from the burden of infirmity. Sorrow shall never be a visitant — where sin is not an inhabitant. Sorrow would be a foreigner — if sin were not a sojourner.

 

God is as far from chastening His children for nothing — as He is from beating them to nothing. A hole in the ship will sink it to the bottom. A small bite from a poisonous serpent will affect the whole body. There is no way to calm the sea — but by excommunicating Jonah from the ship. If the root is killed — the branches will soon be withered. If the spring is diminished — there is no doubt but the streams will soon fail. Where the fuel of corruption is removed — there the fire of affliction is extinguished.

The wages of sin — is death. As the works of sin are dishonorable; so the wages of sin are deadly! The corruption of nature is the cause of the dissolution of nature. The candle of our lives — is blown out by the wind of our lusts! Sin is that noxious weed — which chokes out the choicest grain. Sin is that offensive smoke — which depresses the rising flame. Sin is that dismal cloud — which overshadows the beaming sun.

 

Were it not for sin — death would never have had a beginning! Were it not for death — sin would never have an ending! Man, as a creature, is a debtor to the commands of God, as a Sovereign — but as a sinner, he is a debtor to the severity of God, as a Judge.

 

What is so sweet a good as Christ? And what is so great an evil as lust? Sin has brought many a believer into suffering — and suffering has instrumentally kept many a believer out of sin. It is better to be preserved in brine — than to rot in honey! The bitterest medicine is to be preferred — before the sweetest poison. In the same fire wherein the dross is consumed — the precious gold is refined.

 

There are many thousands of souls, who would never have obtained the hopes of Heaven — if they had not been brought there by the gates of Hell. As every mercy is a drop derived from the ocean of God’s goodness; so every misery is a grain weighed out by the supreme wisdom of God’s providence.

 

When Eudocia angrily threatened Chrysostom with banishment, he calmly replied; “Go tell her I fear nothing but sin!” He who serves God — need fear nothing so much as sin!

 

Those who launch out into any voyage, should always previously look well to their tackling, lest a destructive storm should drown them. A bad conscience embitters the sweetest comforts — but a good conscience sweetens the bitterest crosses. How great a wound do vices make in the conscience; yes, even in our infant years! Though the hardened sinner is not afraid to do evil — yet he will be afraid to suffer evil. They need not fear a cross on their back — who feel a Christ in their heart!

 

The water outside the ship may toss it — but it is the water inside the ship, which sinks it! It is better to have the body consumed to ashes for the sake of Christ — than to have the soul dwell in everlasting burnings, through being ashamed of Christ! Though Christians have no warrant to expect that they shall live here without afflictions; yet in the exercise of them, faith will teach them to live above afflictions.

 

That noble servant of Christ, Ignatius, gloried in reproaches for his Lord. He truly delighted to suffer for Christ, “I am not worthy to suffer for Jesus.” Every Christian’s Patmos — is his way to paradise.

 

Suppose the furnace is heated ‘seven times hotter’ — yet God can make the sufferer seventy times happier. Those who are here persecuted for well-doing, shall hereafter be crowned with well-dying. There are none more welcome to the spiritual Canaan — than those who swim to it through the red sea of their own blood.

 

Christian Reader! when you come into the world — you do but live to die again! And when you leave the world — you do but die to live again! What is the grain the worse — for the fan by which it is winnowed? What is the gold the worse — for the fire by which it is refined?

 

Pendleton, a self-confident professor, promised to fry out his fat body in the flames of martyrdom, rather than betray religion. But when the trial approached, he changed his note, and said, “I came not into the world burning — neither will I go out of the world flaming.”

 

Those who refuse to give up their lusts for Christ — will never be inclined to give up their lives for Christ! Paul and Silas had their prison songs — in their prison sufferings. Those caged birds sang with as much melody — as any which have sky liberty. Thus Ignatius, in his epistle to the persecutors of the church, gloried, saying, “The wild beasts may grind me, as corn between their teeth — but I shall by that become as choice bread, in the hand of my God!”

 

I have read an account of a woman, who was imprisoned for her faith; and being in travail with child, she cried out with pain. The keeper derided her, saying. “How can you endure the fire — seeing you make so much noise in bringing forth a child?” “Very well,” said she, “for now I suffer as a sinner — but then I shall suffer for my Savior.”

 

There is more real evil in a particle of corruption, than in an ocean of tribulation! In suffering — the offence is offered to us; in sinning — the offence is committed against God. In suffering, there is an infringement of man’s liberty; in sinning, there is a denial of God’s authority. The evil of suffering is transient — but the evil of sin is permanent. In suffering — we lose the favor of men; but in sinning — we hazard the favor of God.

 

The rose is sweeter under the still where it drops — than upon the stalk whereon it grows. The face of godliness is never so beautiful — as when it is spit upon! The best of wheat — is that which sustains all the drifts of wintry snow.

 

That was an heroic saying of Vincentius, to his hardened persecutors, “You may rage and do your worst — but you shall find the Spirit of God administering more strength to the tormented, than the spirit of the devil affording strength to my tormentors!” Where Christians choose that which is truly best — there let malicious persecutors do their worst. Though you may feel their might — yet you need not feel their malice. They can have no just grounds of fear, whose confidence is in God. Life is only to be desired — by those to whom death would be no gain.

 

It is reported of Hooper the martyr, that when he was going to suffer, a certain person addressed him, saying, “O Sir, take care of yourself! Life is sweet — and death is bitter!” “Ah, I know that,” he replied, “but eternal life is full of more sweetness than this mortal life! And eternal death is full of more bitterness than this fiery death!” A man may suffer without sinning — but he cannot sin without suffering.

 

That was animating language which dropped from the lips of the three Hebrew children, or rather of the three champions, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power. But even if He doesn’t, Your Majesty can be sure that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up!” Either they must sin foully — or suffer sadly. They must either bow to a golden image — or burn in a flaming furnace. But they were as far from worshiping his gods — as he was from worshiping their God!

 

The beloved Daniel chose rather to die in the den of lions; than shamefully desert the cause of the Lamb. Shall not we, for His sake, bear the wrath of man — who, for our sakes, bore the wrath of God? Though obedience is better than sacrifice — yet sometimes, for a man to sacrifice himself is the best obedience.

 

He who loses a base life for Christ — shall hereafter find a better life in Christ.

 

When some attempted to turn Polycarp from the faith, by insinuating, that, “There was no evil in calling Caesar LORD, and offering sacrifices to him.” He replied, that, “He had served Jesus Christ for many years, and had always found Him a good Master — that he would therefore, submit himself to all the tortures they should inflict; rather than deny Him.”

 

Moses, that memorable worthy, “Chose to suffer with the people of God rather than to enjoy the short-lived pleasure of sin.” What is a cup of medicine, which removes a disease; compared with a cup of poison, which takes away the life? Those who live upon God, in the use of the creature; can also live upon Him, in the loss of the creature. That was a noble expression, of a noble Christian, “Whatever I thankfully receive, as a token of God’s love to me; I part with contentedly, as a token of my love to Him.”

 

“Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die.” Shall one even dare to die for a good man — and shall we refuse to die for a good God?

 

“Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection.” Some would have used any pick-lock, to have opened a passage to their liberty; but they knew too much of another world to bid at so high a rate for the present.

 

It is reported of Hormisdas, a nobleman of Persia; who being degraded of all his promotions, because he would not change his profession of Christ; that afterward, his persecutors restored them all again, and solicited him to deny Christ. But he rent his purple robe, and laid all his honors at the feet of the Emperor, saying, “If you restore these honors, with an intention to make me desert my Savior; I decline to accept them, upon such conditions!” Good man, he thought, and that justly too — that Christ without worldly honor — was better than worldly honor without Christ.

 

It is recorded concerning one of the martyrs, that when he was going to the stake, a nobleman besought him, in a compassionate manner, to take care for his soul. “So I will,” he replied, “For I give my body to be burnt — rather than have my soul defiled.” How many professors are there, who would rather have sinful self satisfied, than crucified!

 

As the power of grace, comes in at one door; the love of vice, will go out at another! The only way, to have the house of Saul weakened; is to get the house of David strengthened. Those Philistines, who lacked courage to meet Sampson when he was in vigor; could insultingly dance round him, when he was in weakness.

 

Reader! consider seriously — that it is sin which in this life debases a person; and in the next life destroys him. Their state must be dreadful, whose end is damnation, because their damnation is without end. No condition can be so intolerably doleful — as that which is unalterably dreadful.

 

A certain person, on seeing a Christian woman go cheerfully to prison, said to her, “O you have not yet tasted of the bitterness of death!” She as cheerfully answered, “No, nor shall I ever; for Christ has promised, that those who keep His sayings, shall never see death.”

 

A believer may feel the stroke of death; but he shall never feel the sting of death. The first death may bring his body to corruption; but the second death shall never bring his soul to destruction. Though he may endure the cross — yet he shall not endure the curse. There can be no condemnation, to those Christians, who belong to Christ.

 

7. Another singular action, of a consistent Christian, is — to be a father to all in charity — and yet a servant to all in humility.

 

First, to be a father to all — in charity. That crop that is sown in mercy — shall be reaped in glory. In Heaven, there are riches enough — but no poor to receive them. In Hell, there are poor enough — but no riches to relieve them. How many of the most wealthy — are deaf to the most importunate requests for mercy! They will do no good, in the world — with the goods of the world. They too much resemble sponges — which greedily suck up the waters, but will not yield a return of them again, until they are well squeezed.

 

Necessity, is not likely to be supplied by the hand of misery; while so many, who would help, cannot, for lack of ability; and so many, who may help, will not, for lack of charity. There is not a drop of water — for such a Dives in Hell; who has not a crumb of bread — for a poor distressed Lazarus upon earth. Every act of charity — is but an act of equity. It is not the bestowment of our gifts; but the payment of our debts.

 

The rich man’s excess, was ordained to relieve the poor man’s necessity. A lady on giving sixpence to a beggar, said thus to him, “I have now given you more than ever God gave to me.” To whom he replied, “No, madam! No, madam — God has given you all your abundance.” “That is your mistake” said she, “for He has but lent it me — that I might bestow it on such as you.”

 

John, the beloved disciple of Christ, inculcates the doctrine of love, to the disciples of Christ, “Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is a child of God. And everyone who loves the Father — loves His children, too.” As holiness works a likeness to Him who begets it; so it works a love to those who enjoy it. It is impossible for anyone to love the person of Christ — who does not delight in the picture of Christ. While he is out of charity with his brother — he shows that God is out of charity with him. We lose more for lack of God’s love — than our brethren lose for lack of our love.

 

He is not a covetous man, who lays up something providentially — but he is a covetous man, who gives out nothing willingly. He is as prudent a man, who sometimes distributes discreetly — as he who accumulates hastily. Men frequently manifest more wisdom in laying out — than in laying up.

 

Reader! the hope of living long on earth, should not make you covetous — but the prospect of living long in Heaven should make you bounteous. Though the sun of charity rises at home — yet it should always set abroad.

 

Seneca, the heathen, inculcates a principle worthy of the acceptance of every Christian, “I truly enjoy no more of the world’s affluence — than what I willingly distribute to the needy.” Without your mercy — the poor cannot live on earth; and without God’s mercy — you shall not live in Heaven! Some men’s churlishness entirely swallows up their charitableness. Instead of praying one for another — they are making a prey of one another.

 

When I consider that our hearts are no softer — I wonder that the times are no harder. It is a reproach to many rich men, that God should give them so much — and that they should give the poor so little.

 

Some observe that the most barren grounds — are nearest to the richest mines. It is too often true in a spiritual sense, that those whom God has made the most fruitful in estates — are most barren in good works. It is too generally true, that the rich spend their substance wantonly — while the poor give their alms willingly. A penny comes with more difficulty out of a bag that is pressing full — than a dollar out of a purse that is half empty.

 

Why does the Lord make your cup run over — but that other men’s lips might taste the liquor? The showers which fall upon the highest mountains, should glide into the lowest valleys. “Give — and it shall be given you,” is a maxim little believed.

 

It is infidelity which is the spring of all cruelty. Wherever you can discover the face of one, you may also hear the sound of the other’s feet. If you deny relief to those who are virtuous — you kill laborious bees; if you bestow your gifts on those who are wicked — you do but support drones. But it is better to favor an illegitimate child — than to murder a legitimate child. God looks not so much on the merits of the beggar — as upon the mercy of the giver.

 

“The Lord has already told you what is good, and this is what He requires: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Here is a trinity of precepts — from a trinity of Persons. Pharisees more delight to plead this precept, than to practice it; which is, as if a man should cry up the kindness of his king — and at the same time join in rebellion against him. If all were rich — no alms need be received; if all were poor — no alms could be bestowed.

 

God, who could have made all men wealthy, has made most men poor; that the poor might have Christ for an example of patience — and the rich for an example of goodness. Cruelty is one of the highest scandals to piety; for instead of turning lions into lambs — it turns lambs into lions!

 

“Be merciful — as your Father in Heaven is merciful.” Clemency is one of the brightest diamonds in the crown of majesty. How cheerfully should we practice benevolence, when we consider who has set us the example! “Be perfect — even as your heavenly Father is perfect.” What one Scripture calls mercy — the other styles perfection; as if this one perfection of mercy included all. He who shows mercy when it may be best spared — will receive mercy when it shall most be needed.

 

It is reported of one of the dukes of Savoy, that, being asked by certain ambassadors at his court what hounds he kept; he conducted them into a large room, where there were a number of poor people sitting at his table. “These” said he, “are all the hounds I have upon earth; and with whom I am in pursuit of the kingdom of Heaven.” It is counted an honor to live like princes — but it is a greater honor to give like princes.

 

“Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” The flames of piety towards God — must be accompanied with the incense of charity towards man. Mercy is so good a servant — that it will never allow its master to die a beggar.

 

Those who have drained their own wells dry, in order to fill the poor man’s cistern — shall never perish for lack of water to quench their thirst. Those who have blessed others — shall be blessed themselves.

 

“Then the King will say to those on His right — Come, you who are blessed by My Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited Me in, I needed clothes and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you came to visit Me.” Mercy is the queen of beauty — and the blessed offspring of the King of glory!

 

Scarcely any virtue in the whole Scripture has been returned with greater interest — than the love of mercy. Though charity may make your purse lighter one day; yet God will make it heavier another. All who have their names registered in the book of eternity — will have the poor man’s distresses recorded upon the heart of sympathy. For though they are so poor as to be unable to relieve him — yet they are so tender as to pity him. I know no better way to preserve your meal — than by parting with your cake. Large springs should send forth their waters, without pumping. Your benevolence should seek the poor — before the poor seek your benevolence.

 

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness....” He who distributes in compassion, has put on the badge of election. Many can love at their tongue’s end — but the godly love at their finger’s end. If a man is without proper clothing, it is easy for the miser to bid him be clothed; or if he is empty, he can easily bid him be filled; as if poor Christians were able to live upon the air. Liberality does not consist in good words — but in good works! The doubtful are to be resolved by our counsels — but the necessitous are to be relieved by our morsels. It is exceedingly lovely to behold the pictures of purity, though they be hung in the frames of poverty.

 

Reader would you be covetous of anything? let it be rather to lay out on necessity, than to lay up for posterity. Generosity is seed; and the gardener does not become wealthy by saving his seed — but by sowing of his seed.

 

Secondly, A servant to all — in humility. Our first fall was by rising against God — but our best rise, is by falling down before Him. The acknowledgment of our own impotence, is the only stock upon which the Lord engrafts divine assistance.

 

A humble saint — looks most like a citizen of Heaven. “Whoever will be chief among you — let him be your servant.” He is the most lovely Christian, who is the most lowly Christian. As incense smells the sweetest when it is beaten smallest — so saints look loveliest when they lie lowest. Arrogance in the soul, resembles the spleen in the body; which grows most, while other parts are decaying. God will not allow such a weed to grow in His garden, without taking some course to root it up. A believer is like a vessel cast into the sea — the more it fills, the more it sinks.

 

“Pride goes before destruction — and a haughty spirit before a fall.” It is not all the world that can pull a humble man down — because God will exalt him; nor is it all the world that can keep a proud man up — because God will debase him.

 

Do but mark how one of the best of saints, views himself as one of the least of saints; “For I am the least of the apostles — and do not even deserve to be called an apostle!” In the highest heavens — the beams of majesty are displayed; but to the lowest hearts — the streams of mercy are discovered. “Be clothed with humility.” Pride is a sinner’s torment — but humility is a saint’s ornament. The garment of humility — should always be worn on the back of Christianity.

 

God many times places a thorn in the flesh — to pierce the balloon of pride. He makes us feel a sense of our misery — that we may sue for His unmerited mercy. The first Adam was for self-advancement — but the second Adam is for self-abasement. The former was for having SELF deified — the latter is for having SELF crucified.

 

Though there may be something left by self-denial; yet there can be nothing lost by self-denial. Nay, a man can never enjoy himself — until he is brought to deny himself. We live — by dying to ourselves; and die — by living to ourselves. There is no proud man — who is not a foolish man; and scarcely is there any foolish man — who is not a proud man. It is the night-owl of ignorance, which broods and hatches the peacock of pride.

 

God abhors those people worst — who adore themselves most. Pride is not a Bethel — that is, a house where God dwells; but a Babel — that is, a stinking dungeon in which Satan abides. Pride is not only a most hateful evil — but it is a radical evil. As all other lusts are found lodging in it — so they are found springing from it. Pride is a foul leprosy, in the face of morality; and a hurtful worm, gnawing at the root of humility. Pride is a cancer within, and a spreading plague without.

 

“God resists the proud — but gives grace to the humble.” Give me the lovely vessel of humility, which God shall preserve — and fill with the wine of His grace; rather than the varnished cup of pride, which He will dash in pieces, like a potter’s vessel. Where humility is the corner-stone — there glory shall be the top-stone.

 

It is impossible to have true thoughts of ourselves, while we entertain high thoughts of ourselves. “Even if everyone else deserts You, I never will!” Poor Peter, he was the most impotent — when he was the most arrogant. He had no doubt of standing, while others were falling. But it proved at last, that he fell while others stood.

 

That was an excellent saying of one; “Where a gracious person would sit below me — I will acknowledge his dignity; but where a proud person would move above me — I would abhor his vanity!” A humble heart may meet with opposition from man — but it shall meet with approbation from God. As humility is a grace very excellent in itself; so it is very pleasing to God. He who is a subject of the former — shall hereafter be an inheritor with the latter.

 

8. Another singular action of a consistent Christian is — To mourn most before God — for those lusts which appear least before men.

 

Others cannot mourn in secret for public sins — but we should mourn in public for our secret sins. That must be sought with repentance, which has been so long lost by disobedience. Outward acts are most scandalous among men — but inward lusts are most atrocious before God.

 

Reader! if you would know the heart of your sin — then you must know the sins of your heart! “For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are the things that defile a man!” These streams of defilement which appear in your life — do but show what a fountain of wickedness there is in your heart! Even the “thought of foolishness in sin!” “When sin has conceived, it brings forth death!” There is no sin so little — as not to kindle an eternal fire! Sin’s first-born is death — and its last-born is Hell.

 

Though repentance is the act of man — yet it is the gift of God. It requires the same power to melt the heart — as to make it. As we are deeply fallen from a state of innocence, so we should rise to a state of penitence. Those sins shall never make a Hell for us — which are a Hell to us. Some people do nothing more — than make work for repentance; and yet do nothing less — than repent of their works. They have sin enough for all their sorrows — but not sorrow enough for all their sins. Their eyes are windows to let in lusts — when they should be flood-gates to pour out tears!

 

When godly sorrow takes possession of the house — it will quickly shut sin out of doors. There must be a falling out with our lusts — before there can be a genuine falling off from our lusts. There must be a sincere loathing of sin in our affections — before a true leaving of sin in our actions. It is a hearty mourning for our transgressions, which makes way for a happy funeral of our corruptions!

 

Sinner, you have filled the book of God with your sins — and will you not fill the bottle of God with your tears? Remember, that when Christ draws the likeness of the new creature, His first brush is dipped in water: “Unless you repent — you shall all likewise perish!” Is it not better to repent without perishing — than to perish without repenting? Godly sorrow is such a grace, that without it — not a soul shall be saved; and with it — not a soul shall be lost! Is it not therefore better to swim in the water-works of godly repentance — than to burn in the fire-works of divine vengeance? Do not think that the tears which are shed in Hell — will in the least abate the torments which are suffered in Hell!

 

Repentance is a priceless grace — for it is the bestowment of a priceless Savior. “God exalted Him to His own right hand as Prince and Savior that He might give repentance and forgiveness of sins.” As a prince He gives repentance — and as a priest He gives pardon. Our humiliation — is the fruit of His exaltation. As He was abased for the sinner’s advancement — so He was exalted for the sinner’s abasement! Remember, sinner, if your heart is not broken in you — your guilt is not broken from you. If you lay not your sins to heart — that you may be humbled; God will lay your sins to your charge — that you may be damned. Though repentance is not a pardon’s obtainer; yet it is a pardon’s forerunner.

 

He who lives in sin, without repentance — shall die in sin, without forgiveness. There is no coming to the fair haven of glory — without sailing through the narrow strait of repentance. Christ rejoices over those as blessed — who mourn over themselves as cursed. “Blessed are those who mourn — for they shall be comforted.” Out of the saltiest water — God can brew the sweetest cordial. The skillful bee gathers the best honey — from the bitterest herbs. When the cloud has been dissolved into a shower — there soon follows a glorious sunshine. The more a stone is chiseled by the hand of the engraver — the greater the beauty of the gem. By groans unutterable — the Lord ushers in joys unspeakable.

 

None do more sing in the possession of Christ, than such as most lament the departure of Christ. Usually their joys — are commensurate to their sorrows. A tender heart is like melting wax — ah what choice impressions are made upon such soft dispositions!

 

A Christian should mourn more for the lusts of the flesh — than for the works of the flesh; for the sin of our nature transcends the nature of all our outward sins. Carnal sins defile the soul by the body — but spiritual sins defile the soul in the body. Many people can mourn over a body from which a soul is departed — but they cannot mourn over a soul whom God has deserted! Alas! What is the bite of a flee — compared to the bite of a lion? What is a spot in the face — compared to a stab in the heart? Inward diseases are least visible — and yet most fatal. A man may die of an internal cancer — although a spot never appears on his body.

 

Sin in the soul, is like Jonah in the ship — it turns the smoothest water into a troubled ocean. We must mourn for sin on earth — or burn for sin in Hell! It is the coldness of our hearts — which kindles the fire of God’s anger. “They will look on Me whom they have pierced and mourn for Him as for an only son. They will grieve bitterly for Him as for a firstborn son who has died!” Christians! the nails which pierced Christ’s hands — should now pierce your hearts! You should now be deeply wounded with godly sorrow, for having so deeply wounded Him with your ungodly sins! It should grieve your spirits — to remember how much you have grieved His Spirit.

 

A believer puts on the sackcloth of contrition — for having put off the garment of perfection. As the sugar-cube is dissolved, and weeps itself away — when dipped in wine. Likewise do our hearts melt under a sense of divine love. Our language at such a season is, “O that we should be such base children — to such a blessed Father!”

 

Man must be convinced of sin — before he can truly repent of sin. Unbelief in the heart is like the worm in Jonah’s gourd — an unseen adversary. Unbelief is least visible — but most hurtful. Unbelief is the worst of robbers — it both plunders and wounds the soul. Christ may dwell in the heart — where unbelief lurks — but not where it reigns. If Christ destroys its armor — it becomes as weak as other men. The chief strength in which unbelief trusts — is ignorance! It is no wonder why men sigh so little for sin — when they see so little of sin. They have tears enough for their outward losses — but none for their inward lusts! They can mourn for the evil which sin brings — but not for sin which brings the evil.

 

Pharaoh more lamented the hard strokes that were upon him, than the hard heart which was within him! Esau did not mourn, because he sold the birthright, which was his sin — but because he lost the blessing, which was his punishment. This is like weeping over an onion — the eye sheds tears because it hurts! When the sailing is smooth, the mariner has his heart set on his costly cargo — yet he casts it overboard in a storm. Many complain more of the sorrows to which they are born — than of the sins with which they were born! They tremble more at the vengeance of sin — than at the venom of sin. The venom of sin delights them — the vengeance of sin affrights them!

 

“The sinners in Zion are afraid; trembling seizes the ungodly!” Why — what is the matter? “Who among us can dwell with a consuming fire? Who among us can dwell with ever-burning flames?” They feared sin — not as it was a black coal which defiled — but as it was a fire which burned them!” A stroke from God’s justice broke the heart of Judas into despair; while a look from Christ’s mercy melted Peter’s heart into tears!

 

There are two evil things in our sins: the devilishness of them, and the dangerousness of them. Now take a saint and an unrepentant sinner; the saint says, “What evil have I done?” The sinner says, “What evil must I suffer?” One mourns for the sin — the other mourns for the punishment! The saint grieves because his soul is defiled — the sinner grieves because his soul is damned. Water may gush from a rock — when it is smitten with a rod. But all such streams are lost; for they neither quench the flames of Hell — nor fill God’s bottles in Heaven.

 

Our whole life should be a life of repentance — and such repentance, as needs not to be repented of. While the vessel is leaking, the pump may be going. Reader, it is an unfavorable symptom, if you can wipe away tears from your eyes — before God has washed away guilt from your conscience. It is better traveling to Heaven sadly — than to Hell merrily! Give me a sorrowful saint — rather than a merry sinner.

 

Did the rocks rend — when Christ died for sin? And shall not our hearts rend — for having lived in sin? “If we confess our sin — He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin; and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Did ever words like these drop from the lips of any being — except God? Here, the sinner is desired only to acknowledge the debt — and the mountain of sin shall be canceled. Is it not therefore better to be saved by divine mercy — than to be damned by divine justice? As soon as we are oppressed, and groan under our burden of sin — we are sure to be eased by Christ’s shoulders. If we repent of our offences with sincere grief — the offended Lord joyfully forgives and forgets them all.

 

Where misery passes undiscerned — there mercy passes undesired. Christ may knock long at such doors — before He gains admittance. He only enters into those — who enter into themselves. “Behold I stand at the door and knock!” Christ oftener comes to the door — than He enters the house. As we knock at His door for audience — so He does at ours for entrance. If Christ is shut out of our heart — our prayers will be shut out of His heart. Why should God show him mercy — who never acknowledged himself guilty? A saint’s tears — are better than a sinner’s triumphs.

 

Bernard says, “The tears of penitents — are the wine of angels!” When a sinner repents — the angels rejoice! Give me such a mourning on earth — as creates music in Heaven. Many are battered as lead by the hammer — who were never bettered as gold by the fire. Sometimes, that repentance which begins in the fears of Hell — ends in the flames of Hell!

 

9. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to keep his heart the lowest — when God raises his estate the highest.

 

Paul saw the need of this, when he enjoined Timothy to charge those who were rich in this world not to be proud-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches. Sinful arrogance, usually attends creature-confidence. Worldly wealth is a bellows to swell the balloon of pride! For when men’s estates are lifted up — it is but too common for men’s hearts to be puffed up. Oh! how fond is thin dust — of thick clay! Pride breeds in great estates — as worms do in sweet fruits.

 

Remember, Christian, if you are poor in the world — you should be rich in faith; and if you are rich in this world, you should be poor in spirit. The way to ascend — is to descend; the deeper a tree roots — the wider do its branches spread. The sun of prosperity shines the clearest — in the sphere of humility. The true nobility of the mind — consists in the humbleness of the mind. Consider, that as none have so little — but they have great cause to bless God; so none have so much — as to have the least cause to boast before God.

 

Shall the theatrical vagrant be proud of his borrowed robes, or the mud wall swell because the beams of a beautiful sun shine upon it? Gold in your bags may make you great — but it is grace in your hearts which makes you godly. Godliness, without greatness, shall be esteemed; when greatness, without godliness shall be confounded. Proud sinners are the fittest companions — for proud devils. The more prosperity man enjoys — the more humility God enjoins.

 

Nature teaches us, that those trees bend the most freely — which bear the most fully. As a proud heart loves none but itself — so it is beloved by none but itself. Who would attempt to gain those pinnacles — that none have ascended without fears, or descended without falls? When men through daring pride cast off all allegiance to God — He in just derision casts them out from the inheritance of God. If we refuse to acknowledge Him — He will refuse to acknowledge us.

 

It is reported of Philip of Macedon, that after having obtained the honor of an unexpected victory, he was observed to look very much dejected. On being asked the reason, he replied, “that the honors which are obtained by the sword, might also be lost by the sword.” Was he pensive — when providence crowned him with victory? and shall we be vainly elated — when providence makes us wealthy? The Supreme Majesty cannot allow us to glory in any, but Himself. Therefore, when we glory in our pride — He stains the pride of our glory. It is a difficult matter — to be grand in the estimation of others — and base in our own estimation. The face of no mere man ever shone so illustriously, as that of the ancient Jewish lawgiver’s; and yet it is affirmed that no man’s heart was ever so meek. But most men resemble chameleons; which no sooner take in the air — than they begin to swell.

 

As that is a rebellious heart — in which sin is allowed to reign; so that is not a very enlarged heart — which the world can fill. Alas, what will it profit us to sail before the pleasing gales of prosperity — if we are afterwards overset by the gusts of vanity? Your bags of gold should be ballast in your vessel — to keep her always steady; instead of being topsails to your masts — to make your vessel giddy. Give me that distinguished Christian, who is rather pressed down under the weight of all his honors — than puffed up with vain-glory.

 

It has been observed by those who are experienced in the sport of angling, that the smallest fishes bite the fastest. Oh, how few great men do we find so much as nibbling at the gospel hook! “But the leaders had utterly rejected their God.” Mercy favored them — but gratitude could not bind them.

 

When King James’ tutor lay upon his expiring pillow, his Majesty sent to inquire how he did, “Go tell my royal sovereign, that I am going where few kings go.” The tree of life is not often planted — in an earthly paradise. Under the Levitical law, the lamb and the dove were offered in sacrifice — while the lion and the eagle were rejected. The shining diamond of a great estate — may frequently be found upon an unsound and idolatrous heart. Great prosperity is not to be deemed the greatest security. The lofty unbending cedar is more exposed to the injurious blast, than the lowly shrub. The little rowboat rides safely along the shore — while the gallant ship is wrecked in the wide ocean. Those sheep which have the most wool — are generally the soonest fleeced. Poverty is its own defense against robbery. A fawning world — is worse than a frowning world. Who would shake those trees — upon which there is no fruit?

 

Many think they are saved — because they are poor; and others — because they are rich — but these are all capitally mistaken! For much of the former are not saved, and not many of the latter will be saved. “Not many of the worldly wise; not of the influential; not many of noble birth — are called.” You nobles, I call you to see — that not many nobles are called. He does not say, not any — but not many. Blessed be God, we can say of them, as Luther once said of Elizabeth, a pious queen of Denmark, “Christ will sometimes carry a queen to Heaven.” Rich men are choice dishes at God’s table.

 

Some people, when their estates are low — their hearts are high. But true believers, when their estates are high — their hearts are low. What an excellent commendation does the beloved prophet of Israel give the beloved prince of Israel, “Then King David went in and sat before the Lord and prayed — Who am I, O Sovereign Lord, and what is my family, that You have brought me this far?” The weighty clusters of mercy completely bowed the branches of this royal vine! He does not contend with God for mercies denied — but he adores Him for mercies granted. The eye of his humility views the grace of God — and then he is thankful; it also views the folly of his heart — and this makes him mournful.

 

Theodosius deemed it more honorable to be a child of God — than a monarch of the world; and so did King David. Ah! why will you set your heart upon vanity? For everything will come to nothing — but He who formed all things out of nothing. Many think it must go well with them hereafter, because it is so well with them here; as if silver and gold, which came out of the dirt of the earth — would carry them to the bosom of the God of Heaven. Though the gates of Heaven will open to admit the Heaven-born soul; yet they are not unlocked with a golden key. A man may bask in the beams of prosperity now — and yet burn in the flames of eternity hereafter!

 

The worm of pride is always injurious to celestial plants! Either this vice must be shut out on earth — or we shall be shut out in Heaven. The bowing reed of a humble mind — shall be preserved entire; while the sturdy oak of a proud lofty mind — shall be broken to shivers. A proud person thinks everything too much — which is done by him; and everything too little — which is done for him. God is as far from pleasing him with his gifts — as he is from pleasing God with his works. Remember what the observant prophet Habakkuk declares, “Behold! his soul which is lifted up in him, is not upright.” Observe, he introduces the subject with a “Behold!” He who lifts up himself — is not lifted up of God. I will not say, ‘a godly man is never proud’ — but I will say, ‘a proud man is never godly.’

 

10. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to seek to be better inwardly in his substance — than outwardly in appearance.

 

“Having a form of godliness — but denying its power.” This is a business which no hypocrite chooses to be employed in — he prefers varnish — to solid gold. It little concerns him how much the house is infected with the leprosy — just so long as it is but outwardly fair to human inspection. He forgets that, “A man is not a Jew if he is only one outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. No, a man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man’s praise is not from men, but from God.”

 

Formality frequently takes its dwelling near the chambers of integrity, and so assumes its name; the soul not suspecting that Hell should make so near an approach to Heaven. A rotten post, though covered with gold, is more fit to be burned in the fire, than for the building of a fabric. Where there is a pure conscience — there will be a pure conversation. The dial of our faces does not infallibly show — the time of day in our hearts. The humblest looks may enamel the face — while unbounded pride governs the heart! Unclean spirits may inhabit the house — when they look not out at the window.

 

A hypocrite may be both the fairest — and the foulest creature in the world! He may be fairest outwardly in the eyes of man — and foulest inwardly in the sight of God. How commonly do such unclean swans cover their black flesh with their white feathers! Though such wear the mantle of Samuel — they should bear the name of Satan!

 

Many appear righteous — who are only righteous in appearance. But while they are deceiving others with the false shows of holiness — they are also deceiving themselves with the false hopes of happiness. The hypocrite would not willingly appear evil — and yet would inwardly be evil. He would gladly be accounted godly — and yet would not be godly. Man, either appear what you are — or be what you appear. What will the form of godliness do for you — if you deny the power thereof? Own this — or God will disown you! Those who have the power of godliness, cannot deny the form; while those who have the form of godliness, may deny the power.

 

Hypocrites resemble looking-glasses — which present the faces that are not in them. Oh, how desirous are men to put the fairest gloves — upon the foulest hands; and the finest paint — upon the rottenest posts! To counterfeit the coin of Heaven, is to commit treason against the King of Heaven. Who would spread an exquisite cloth — upon a dirty table?

 

If a mariner sets sail in an unsound ship — he may reasonably expect to lose his voyage. No wise virgin would carry a lamp — without light. O professor, either get the light — or part with the lamp. None are so black in the eyes of the all knowing God — as those who paint for spiritual beauty.

 

Some people are better in show — than in substance. But not so with true Christians; they are not like painted tombs, which enclose decayed bones. The king’s daughter “is all glorious within!” She is all glorious within — though within is not all her glory. That is a sad charge, which the God of truth brings against certain false professors, “I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews, and are not — but are the synagogue of Satan!” A false friend — is worse than an open enemy. A painted harlot is less dangerous — than a painted hypocrite. A treacherous Judas is more abhorred by God — than a bloody Pilate!

 

Professors! Remember the sheep’s clothing will soon be stripped from the wolf’s back! The velvet plaster of profession — shall not always conceal the offensive ulcer of corruption. Neither the ship of formality nor hypocrisy — will carry one person to the harbor of felicity. The blazing lamps of foolish virgins may light them to the bridegroom’s gate — but not into his chamber. Either get the nature of Christ within you — or take name of Christ away from you.

 

Oh, what vanity is it to lop off the boughs — and leave the roots which can send forth more; or to empty the cistern, and leave the fountain running which can soon fill it again! Such may swim in the water as the visible church — but when the net is drawn to shore, they must be thrown away as bad fishes. Though the tares and the wheat may grow in the field together — yet they will not be housed in the granary together.

 

How pious and devout did the Pharisees appear before men! The people concluded these religious leaders, to be the only saints upon the earth. They judged the inward man by the outward — but not so with the heart-searching God! For He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men — but God knows your hearts! What is highly valued among men — is detestable in God’s sight!” That sepulcher is not always the repository of gold — which is outwardly garnished. Herod was a god in the esteem of the people — when he was but a fiend in the sight of the Lord; they adored him — but God destroyed him.

 

A man’s outward life may be civilized — when his heart is not evangelized. There is as much difference between nature restrained — and nature renewed, as between the glimmering of a glowworm — and the splendor of the noonday sun! A bad man is certainly the worst — when he is seemingly the best. We must not account everyone a soldier — who swaggers with a sword. A rusty sword — may frequently be found in a highly decorated scabbard. What good is it to have our hands as white as snow — if our hearts are as black as the bottomless pit! Such professors resemble soap bubbles — smooth and pretty without — yet only filled with air!

 

A man may wear the Savior’s livery — and yet be busied in Satan’s drudgery! The skin of an apple may be fair — when it is rotten at the core! Though all gold may glitter — yet all is not gold that glitters. The worst hypocrite may have the color of gold — but not the value of gold. What comparison is there, between the golden cup filled with putrid water — and the clay cup filled with fine wine?

 

Very few deceivers duly weigh that notable saying of the wise man, “The man of integrity walks securely — but he who takes crooked paths will be found out!” God, who promises to cover the true Christian’s infirmities — threatens also to disclose the hypocrite’s impieties. Well would it be for such to remember, that arch-traitor Judas, purchased nothing by his deceitful dealings — but a halter for his body, in which he was hanged; and fire for his soul, in which he is burning!

 

11. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to be more afflicted at the distresses of the church, than affected at his own happiness.

 

When we suffer not from the enemies of Christ by persecution — we should then suffer for the friends of Christ by compassion. Let not Zion’s sons be rejoicing — while their mother is mourning. “Are not her breaches like the sea — and there is none to heal her?” If her breaches be irreparable — our hearts should be inconsolable. It is observed of doves, that if one is sick, the other laments. Yes, the savage beasts will mourn over the afflicted creatures of their own species; and shall that be lost among men — which is found among beasts?

 

Christianity never was designed to strip men of humanity. Reader! Can you see the church bleeding — and never ask balm for her wounds? How can you rejoice when she stands — if you do not mourn when she falls? It thrilled impious Nero to see the Christians burning — but it should wound us to hear of it. The cruel massacre of the Judean infants — was a pleasant sight to bloody Herod.

 

We may justly prefer that charge against many nominal Christians, which God did against nominal Israel. “You drink wine by the bowlful, and you perfume yourselves with exotic fragrances, caring nothing at all that your nation is going to ruin!”

 

Many can weep a flood for the groans of a child — but they cannot drop a tear for the groans of the church. Their love to relations transcends their love to religion. He who has property on board the church’s ship, cannot but be alarmed at every storm. Many professors are like a silver eye in the spiritual head, and a wooden leg in the spiritual body — which are insensible to all its sorrows. That man who has no compassion for afflicted Christians, may rest persuaded that God will have no compassion on him! His language will be, “Depart from Me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave Me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite Me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe Me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after Me.”

 

The enemies of the church may toss her as waves — but they shall not split her as rocks. She may be dipped in water as a feather — but shall not sink therein as lead. He who is a well of water within her, to keep her from fainting — will also prove a wall of fire about her, to preserve her from falling. Tried she may be — but destroyed she cannot be. Her foundation is the Rock of Ages — and her defense the everlasting Arms. It is only such fabrics as are founded upon the sand — which are overthrown by the wind. The adversaries of God’s people will push at them as far as their horns will go — but when they have scoured them by prosecution as tarnished vessels — then God will throw such wisps into the fire!

 

Many would rather see the church’s expiration — than her reformation. It would afford them more pleasure to find her nullified, than purified; for they suppose that happiness increases — in proportion as holiness decreases. Christians! when persecutors make long furrows upon the saint’s back — then we should cast in the seed of sympathetic tears! “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?” Thus the Head cries out in Heaven — while the toe is trod upon on earth!

 

Though Jesus Christ has altered His condition — yet He has not changed His affection. Death took away His life for us — but not His love from us. He who washed away the blood of guilt from our hearts — will soon wipe away those briny tears which disfigure our cheeks. He who paid so great a price for our redemption, will not resign us into the hands of our cruel tormentors. “Comfort, comfort My people — says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem. Tell her that her sad days are gone and that her sins are pardoned.” If the Father of mercies thus proclaims pardon to returning prodigals — we may expect soon to hear of music and rejoicing among all the heavenly harpers!

 

When we see the church suffering in the cup of affliction — we should then help her with the cup of consolation. A heavy burden may easily be borne — by the assistance of many shoulders. Some are like Gallio, “none of these things concerned them.” Nay, when they should be sympathizers, they are censurers. They conclude that the gold is not good, because it is tried; and that the ground is worthless, because it is ploughed. They wound those with the arrows of reproach — whom God has only corrected with the rod of reproof. It is dangerous to smite those with our tongues — whom God has smitten with His hand. His right to correct — is not our right to correct.

 

Because Christ suffered for transgressors, many numbered Him with transgressors — but that was to give Him the sharpest vinegar, when they should have given Him the sweetest wine. “Pour out your fury on them; consume them with Your burning anger!” Why, David? “For they persecute those You wound and talk about the pain of those You have wounded.”

 

Sympathy is a debt we owe to sufferers. For Christians to be rejoicing when their brethren are weeping — is like putting silver-lace upon a mourning suit. Our own particular losses and distresses resemble the extinguishing of a candle, which only occasions darkness in one room — but the general distresses of the church are like the eclipsing of the sun, which overshadows the whole hemisphere. Pliny informs us of two goats meeting together on a narrow bridge, where neither of them could either proceed or recede; at last one of them lay down, that the other might go over him. How much of the man was there in those beasts — and how much of the beast is there in some men!

 

It is certainly better to be in the humble posture of a mourner — than in the proud gesture of a scorner. The woman of Canaan could not rest — while her daughter was restless. The torture of one — was the torment of the other — but a word from Jesus relieved them both. Sympathy renders a doleful state — more joyful. Alexander refused water in a time of great scarcity, because there was not enough for his whole army.

 

It should be among Christians, as among lute-strings — when one is touched, the others tremble. Believers should be neither proud flesh — nor dead flesh. Fellow members — should ever have fellow feelings. Other men’s woes are our warnings — their desolation should be our information.

 

Jeremiah suffered not in his own person, being under the protection of the Divine Being — but though he dwelt securely from the hand of mortality — yet he was filled with the affections of sympathy. Though he wrote of the Jews desolations — yet he named them Jeremiah’s Lamentations.

 

12. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to render the greatest good for the greatest evil.

 

Mariners look for a storm at sea, when the waters begin to utter a murmuring noise. Theodosius the emperor, being urged to execute one who had reviled him, answered, “I am so far from gratifying your wish; that were it in my power, if he were dead, I would raise him to life again; rather than, being alive, to put him to death.”

 

He makes a good market of bad commodities, who with kindnesses overcomes injuries. For a man to be captivated by his own angry passions, and conquer another person — is but to lose the palace of a prince — to gain the cottage of a peasant. A spark of fire falling in the ocean, expires immediately; but dropping upon combustibles, burns furiously. God has bound every believer in gospel cords — to godly behavior.

 

A carnal man may love his friends — but it is a Christian man who loves his enemies. “But I tell you — love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you.” He calls to patience, who is patience itself! He who gives the precepts — enforces it by His own example. It is unnatural to hate those who love us; and it is supernatural to love those who hate us. A sinner can do much evil — but he can suffer none; a saint can suffer much evil — but he will do none.

 

He who takes up fire to throw at his adversaries, is in great danger of burning his own fingers! A badly loaded gun, instead of hitting the mark, does but recoil on him who discharges it. He who glories in wounding others — will finally wound himself. If injuries are our enemies’ weapons, forgiveness should be ours. How many have had their blood seen, because they would not have their backs seen. Men’s bad actions towards others — are generally excused by others’ bad actions towards them. There is a two-fold madness: that of the head — which deprives men of prudence; and that of the heart — which deprives them of their patience. To forget an injury, is more than nature can promise — but to forgive it, is what grace can perform. Patience affords us a shield to defend ourselves — but innocence denies us a sword to offend others. If ever you hope that your charity should live after you — then let resentment die before you.

 

It is written in the law of Mahomet, that “God made angels of light — and devils of flame.” But of this I am sure — that they are of hellish constitutions, who play off the fire-works of contention. “Be angry — and sin not.” Anger should not be a burning coal from Satan’s furnace — but a blazing coal from God’s altar. It should resemble fire in straw — which is as easily quenched, as suddenly kindled. He who would be angry and not sin — must be angry at nothing but sin! “Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a mighty foothold to the devil!” He who carries angry passions to bed with him — will find that the devil will creep between the sheets! Why should we give place to Satan — who crowds in so fast himself?

 

O man, shall your life be mortal — and your wrath immortal? Should we not give place to an offending brother, rather than to be a designing murderer? How many are there who profess to forgive — but cannot forget an injury! Such are like people who sweep the chamber — but leave the dust behind the door. Whenever we grant our offending brethren a discharge — our hearts also should set their hands to the acquittance.

 

We should not only break the teeth of malice by forgiveness — but pluck out its sting by forgetfulness. To store our memories by dwelling on injuries — is to fill that chest with rusty iron — which was made for refined gold. The pot of malice should not stand upon the fire — until it boils over. Christian, can you expect better treatment in the world — than He who was better than the world?

 

When Aristides, the Athenian general, sat to arbitrate a difference between two people, one of them said, “This fellow accused you at such a time!” To whom Aristides answered “I sit, not to hear what he has done against me — but against you.” How should a Christian shine, if a heathen gives such light! “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Not the coals of vengeance to consume him — but the coals of kindness to soften him.

 

Jesus was an intercessor both in His life and death; His dying breath was praying breath — and that not only for His sorrowful disciples — but for His enraged murderers also. “Father, forgive them — for they know not what they do.” Thus He gave them the best wine — for the bitterest gall. The Lord Jesus spreads a large table every day, and the major part who feed thereat — are His enemies! “In that day the wolf and the lamb will live together; the leopard and the goat will be at peace. Calves and yearlings will be safe among lions, and a little child will lead them all!” The Lord Jesus can both tame the most cruel beast — and quench the most raging lust!

 

None but a patient Christ — can make us patient Christians. As our passions were the cause of His — so His passion is the cure of ours. Reader, if you cannot forgive others — God will not forgive you. You have His own authority for this, “For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” In vain do we ask God to be pacified to us — while we live at variance with others. How can we expect to have pounds remitted to us — if pence are not remitted by us?

 

I have read of a person who imbrued his hands in his own blood, because they were too short to reach his enemy’s. Poor revenge! How repugnant was this to the apostolic advice, “Do not take revenge, my friends — but leave room for God’s wrath.” This was the conduct of dying Stephen, “Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice — Lord, do not charge them with this sin!” Could living men do worse to a dying man — or a dying man pray better for living men?

 

To do evil for good, is human corruption; to do good for good, is civil retribution — but to do good for evil, is Christian perfection. Though forgiveness is not the grace of nature — yet it is the nature of grace.

 

When Shimei cursed David in his distress, Abishai was for an immediate retaliation. “Why should this dead dog curse my lord the king? Let me go over and cut off his head!” What was David’s answer? “No!” the king said. “If the Lord has told him to curse me, who am I to stop him?” He was so far from taking off his head, that he does not even attempt to shut his mouth. The shoulders of charity — are able to carry the burden of injury — without either being moved with violence, or removed from patience.

 

Though God does not allow His people to sin in avenging their enemies — yet He allows not the sin of their enemies to go unavenged. “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay! says the Lord.” “Anger rests in the bosom of fools.” Where there is the most indignation, there is the least discretion. No men do more readily brook insults from others — than such as have learned to despise themselves. Make not an enemy of your friend — by returning evil for good; but make a friend of your enemy — by returning him good for evil.

 

13. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to take those reproofs best — which he needs most.

 

It was the saying of a heathen, though no heathenish saying, “That he who would be good, must either have a faithful friend to instruct him, or a watchful enemy to correct him.” Should we murder a physician — because he comes to cure us? Should we like him worse — because he would make us better?

 

The flaming sword of reprehension — is but to keep us from the forbidden fruit of transgression. “Let the godly strike me! It will be a kindness! If they reprove me, it is soothing medicine. Don’t let me refuse it.” ‘Let him smite me as with an hammer,’ for so the word signifies. A Boanerges is as necessary as a Barnabas.

 

“Have I become your enemy — because I tell you the truth?” Truth is not always relished — where sin is nourished. Light is pleasant — yet it may be offensive to sore eyes. Honey is sweet — though it causes the wound to smart. We must not neglect the sinful actions of friends — for fear of drawing upon ourselves the suspicions of being enemies. It is better to lose the smiles of men — than the souls of men. “You must not hate your brother in your heart. Rebuke your neighbor directly, and you will not incur guilt because of him.” He who loves a garment — hates the moths which fret it.

 

“Rebuke a wise man — and he will love you. Rebuke a scorner — and he will hate you.” Reproof slides from a scorner’s breast — as water from an oiled post. Instead of loving a man amidst all his injuries — he will hate him for all his civilities. Most people are like unruly horses, which no sooner feel the ‘bit’ — than they strike with their heels. Or like bees, which no sooner are angered — than they give a sharp sting!

 

There is much discretion to be manifested in reprehension. A word will do more with some — than a blow with others. A Venice glass is not to be rubbed so hard — as an iron kettle. The tender reed is more easily bowed — than the sturdy oak. Christ’s warfare requires no carnal weapons. Dashing storms do but destroy the seed — while gentle showers nourish it. Chariots too furiously driven, may be overturned by their own vehemence.

 

How many are there, who check passion — with passion; and are very angry — in reproving anger! Thus to slay one devil — they raise another; and leave more work to be undone, than they found to be done. Such a reproof of vice — is a vice to be reproved. In reprehension, we should always beware of carrying our teeth in our tongues; and of biting while we are speaking. A surgeon would not be justifiable in dismembering a body — if he could effect a cure without such drastic measures.

 

“Brothers, if someone is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual should restore such a person with a gentle spirit.” The word signifies, to set a dislocated bone. This requires the lady’s hand; tenderness — as well as skillfulness. Reprehension is not an act of butchery — but an act of surgery. Take heed of putting too keen an edge, upon this scalpel. Mark the reason which the apostle assigns for gentle reproof: “But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.”

 

If your neighbor’s house is on fire — your own may be in danger. We should be willing to lend mercy at one time — as we may have occasion to borrow it at another. We should do with other’s sins, as we do with our own sores; which, if a gentle cut will produce a sufficient healing, we avoid sharp slashing. If ravenous birds can be frightened away by a look — we need not expend powder and shot.

 

It is true, open sinners deserve open censures — but private admonitions will best suit private offences. While we seek to heal a wound in our brother’s actions, we should be careful not to leave a scar upon his person. That is a choice friend, who conceals our faults from the view of others — and yet reveals them to our own view. That medicine which rouses the evil humors of the body, and does not carry them off — only leaves it in a worse condition than it found it.

 

It must be lamented, that many are as deaf to the softest tongue of reproof — as the adder is deaf to the sweet voice of the charmer. They are always administering the bitter pills of calumny — for the sweet cordials of charity. Men love to be adored — yet hate to be reproved. But how can we praise what they do — when they are so far from doing what is worthy to be praised?

 

How securely would David have slept — if Nathan had not been sent to rouse him! How far do many travel in the downward road — for lack of a wholesome friend to stop them in their journey! Private admonition is rather a proof of benevolence, than of malevolence. It was the saying of Augustine, when his hearers resented his frequent reproofs, “Change your conduct — and I will change my conversation!” The more a serpent is stirred — the more he gathers up his poison!

 

Some are to reproof, as tigers are to drums; because they cannot stop them, they will tear their own flesh. Man is a cross creature — yet cannot endure to be crossed. He would have a “touch me not” written upon himself — but who would chide the dog for barking, when the thief is approaching! Sin is like a nettle, which stings when it is gently touched — but hurts not when it is roughly handled. Beloved, this rough hewing of reproof is but to square us for the celestial building. As for flatterers, they may be named the devils upholsterers. They no sooner see men troubled at their lusts — than they are for laying pillows under their elbows! But let such know, that their lack of the fire of zeal — will be punished with the fire of Hell. He is an unskillful artist — who paints deformities with the loveliest of colors.

 

Reprehension should tread upon the heels of transgression. The plaster should be applied — as soon as the wound is received. It is easier to extinguish a burning match — than a burning house. Gentle medicine will serve for a new distemper — but chronic diseases require powerful remedies.

 

The sword of reproof should be drawn against the offence — and not against the offender. Man thinks this cup is not sufficiently bitter — unless he mingles it with his wormwood and gall. But the wrath of man does not work the righteousness of God. The severest reproofs of the godly are not mortal — but medicinal. They are to raise the dead to life — and not put the living to death.

 

Who knows how much the kindness of a reprover — may tame the insolence of an offender. He who hates reproof is brutish. He is brutish, like an angry dog, that snarls and bites while the festering thorn is being taken out of his foot! Or like a wicked horse, that kicks the groomer while he is rubbing off the dirt.

 

“If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over.” The spaniel loses the prey — by barking at the game. The presence of a multitude — makes a man take up an unjust defense, rather than lie down under just shame. It is better to censure a man in private — than to spread his guilt by proclamation. How many do that in the market, which they should do in the closet! Sin is a slippery mire; if we attempt to help others out, and do not — we sink them the deeper. Remember, tender lambs, if straying, must be gently restored to the fold.

 

14. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to take up every duty in point of performance; and lay down in point of dependence.

 

When the purest duties have been performed — the purest mercies should be implored. Many have passed the rocks of gross sins — who have suffered shipwreck upon the sands of self-righteousness. Some people live more upon their customs — than they do upon Christ; more upon the prayers which they make to God — than upon the God to whom they make their prayers. This is, for the redeemed captive to reverence the sword — instead of the hand which wrought his rescue!

 

The Name of God with a sling and a stone — will do more than Goliath with all his armor. Duties are but dry pits, though ever so meticulously wrought — until Christ fills them. Reader, I would neither have you be idle in the means — nor make an idol of the means. Though it be the mariner’s duty to weigh his anchor, and spread his sails — yet he cannot make his voyage until the winds blow. The pipes will yield no conveyance, unless the springs yield their concurrence.

 

What is hearing without Christ — but like a cabinet without a jewel? What is receiving without Christ — but like a glass without a cordial? We can only ascend to Heaven — upon that ladder which was let down from Heaven.

 

The most diligent saint — has been the most self-distrusting saint, “that I may gain Christ and be found in Him — not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law — but that which is through faith in Christ — the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith.” If you are found in your own righteousness, you will be lost by your own righteousness. That garment which was worn to shreds on Adam’s back — will never make a complete covering for you.

 

Duties may be good crutches to go upon — but they are bad “Christs” to lean upon. When Augustus Caesar desired the senate to join some person with him in the consulship, they replied, “They held it as a great dishonor to him — to have anyone joined with him, who was so capable himself.” It is the greatest disparagement that Christians can offer to Christ — to put their services in the scale with His suffering. The beggarly rags of the first Adam — must never be put on with the princely robe of the second Adam!

 

Man is a creature too much inclined to warm himself by the sparks of his own fire — though he lies down in eternal flames for kindling them! Though Noah’s dove made use of her wings — yet she found no rest but in the ark. Duties can never have too much of our diligence — or too little of our confidence. “For he who is entered into rest — has ceased from his own works.” A believer does not perform good works to live — but he lives to perform good works.

 

It was a haughty saying of one, “I will not accept of Heaven, gratis.” But he shall have Hell as his debt — who will not take Heaven as a gift. “For we are the true circumcision, the ones who serve by the Spirit of God, boast in Christ Jesus, and do not put confidence in the flesh.” A true Christian stands at as great distance from trusting in the best of his services — as in the worst of his sins. He knows that the greatest part of his holiness — will not make the least part of his justifying righteousness. He has unreservedly subscribed to that sentiment, “That when we have done all — we are only unprofitable servants.”

 

When we have kept all the commandments, there is one commandment above all to be kept; that is, “all our righteous acts are like filthy rags!” In most of our works — we are abominable sinners; and in the best of our works — we are unprofitable servants. Our works are not like the crystal streams of a living fountain — but like the impure overflowings of an unruly torrent. “I will go in in the strength of the Lord God. O Sovereign Lord, I will proclaim Your righteousness, Yours alone.” You see, beloved, the righteousness of Christ is to be magnified — when the righteousness of a Christian is not to be mentioned.

 

It is hard for us to be “nothing in ourselves” amidst all our works; and to be “all things in Christ,” amidst all our weakness. To undertake every duty — and yet to overlook every duty — is a lesson which none can learn — but Christ’s scholars.

 

Our obedience, at best, is like good wine — which relishes of a bad cask. The ‘Law of God’ will not accept ninety-nine for a hundred. It will not accept the coin of our obedience, either short in quantity — or base in quality. The duty it exacts, is as impossible to be performed in this our fallen state — as the penalty it inflicts is intolerable to be endured in our eternal state!

 

We do not sail to glory — in the salt sea of our own tears — but in the red sea of the Redeemer’s blood! The cross of Christ — is the only key of paradise! We owe the life of our souls — to the death of our Savior. It was His going into the fiery furnace — which keeps us from the devouring flames! Man lives — by death: his natural life is preserved by the death of the creature; and his spiritual life by the death of the Redeemer.

 

Moses must lead the children of Israel through the wilderness — but Joshua must conduct them into Canaan. While we are in the wilderness of this world, we walk under the guidance of Moses — but when we enter the spiritual Canaan, it must be under the leadings of Jesus. The same hand which shut the doors of Hell — to keep us out of perdition — has opened the gates of Heaven — to admit us to its eternal fruition.

 

Those who carry their vessel of hope to the puddle of their own merit — will never draw the water of comfort, from the fountain of God’s mercy! Luther compares the law and gospel — to earth and Heaven. We should walk in the earth of the law, in point of obeying; and in the Heaven of the gospel, in point of believing. It was the saying of one, that “He would swim through a sea of brimstone — if he might but arrive safely at Heaven.” Ah, how would natural men sing — if they could but soar to Heaven upon the pinions of their own merit! The sunbeams of Divine justice — will soon melt such weak and wax wings!

 

He who has no better righteousness than what is of his own providing, shall meet with no higher happiness than what is of his own deserving. “They disregarded the righteousness from God — and attempted to establish their own righteousness.” If such people rest not from duty — then they rest in duty. They are determined to sail in their own ship — though they sink in the ocean! I would that all such did but know, that though good works are not destroyed by Christ — yet they must be denied for Christ.

 

When a looking-glass reflects the brightness of the sun, there is but an acknowledgment of what was — not an addition of what was not. A well-drawn picture praises a beautiful face; not by communicating what it lacks — but by presenting what it has. As God has none the less — for the mercy He gives; so He has none the more — for the duty He receives. Man is such a debtor to God, that he can never pay his obligation to God; yes, the more we pay Him — the more we owe Him for our payments.

 

It is Christ alone, who is the righteousness of God to man, and man to God. We are so far from paying the utmost farthing — that at the utmost, we have not a farthing to pay! That man will be a miserable spectacle of vanity — who stands upon the lame feet of his own ability.

 

15. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to take up his contentment, in God’s appointment.

 

As many do the things which God dislikes — so they dislike the things which God does. If the children of Israel obtain no meat for their lusts — then they are weary of their lives. They are delighted with their burning corruption — but are enraged with their trying condition. This is nothing less, than to be in love with their malady — and to hate their remedy. They studied more how to gratify their humor — than to satisfy their hunger. They complained of the shoe — but the disease lay in the foot.

 

Those who think too highly of their own deserts — will think too lowly of their estates. It is the task of God — to satisfy the desires of men. He can do everything — but they are not pleased with anything.

 

There is no man, but who has received more good — than he has deserved. Likewise, there is no man, who has done less evil — than has been inflicted upon him. He should therefore be contented, though he sees but little good. And he should not be discontented, though he suffers much evil. “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said — Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Where the seal of faith has been set to the bond of truth — He who has said it will maintain you in the lack of earthly provisions.

 

When a wicked man’s purse grows light — his heart grows heavy. When he has something without to afflict him — he has nothing within to support him. That well known Scripture is unknown to him: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”

 

It is hard to carry a full cup — without spilling; or to stand under a heavy load — without bowing. It is difficult to walk in the clear day of prosperity — without wandering; or in the dark night of adversity — without stumbling. But from whatever point the wind blows — the skillful mariner knows how to meet it with his sails.

 

Repenting is the act of Christian men — but repining is the act of carnal men. Though their estates are like a fruitful paradise — yet their hearts are like a barren wilderness. Such people are like those spiders — which suck poison out of the sweetest flowers — and by an infernal chemistry, extract dross from the purest gold!

 

Outward prosperity cannot create inward tranquility. Hearts-ease is a flower which never grew in the world’s garden. The ground of a wicked man’s trouble, is not because he has not enough of the creature — but because he cannot find enough in the creature to satisfy him! His possession is great enough — but his disposition is not good enough.

 

Some are satisfied under the hand of God, because they are not sensible of the hand of God. They never fret, because they never feel.

 

We are not to be troubled — that we have no more from God; but we are to be troubled — that we do no more for God. Christian, if you are well pleased with your eternal salvation — should not you be well pleased with your temporal condition?

 

Believers should be like sheep, which change their pastures at the will of the shepherd; or like vessels in a house, which stand to be filled or emptied — at the pleasure of their owner. He who sails upon the sea of this world in his own ship — will sink at last into a bottomless ocean. Never were any their own carvers — but they were sure to cut their own fingers.

 

A covetous man is fretful — because he has not as much as he desires. But a gracious man is thankful — because he has more than he deserves. It is true, I have not the sauce — but then, I merit not the meat. I have not the lace — but then, I deserve not the coat. I want that which may support my vanity — but I have that which supplies my necessity. “If we have food and clothing, we will be content with these.” Here is the flesh of the creature to fill us — and the fleece of the creature to cover us.

 

It is reported of a woman who, being sick, was asked whether she was willing to live or die; she answered, “Whatever God pleases.” “But,” said one “if God should refer it to you, which would you choose?” “Truly,” replied she, “I would refer it to Him again.” Thus, that man obtains his will from God — whose will is subjected to God.

 

A contented heart is an even sea in the midst of all storms. It is like a tree in autumn, which secures its life — when it has lost its leaves. When worthy Mr. Hern lay upon his deathbed, his wife, with great concern, asked him what was to become of her and her large family? he answered, “Peace, sweetheart. That God who feeds the ravens, will not starve the Herns.” If the child questions his father’s affection — he will soon be dubious of his father’s provision.

 

Our most golden conditions in this life are set in bronze frames. There is no gathering a rose without a thorn — until we come to Immanuel’s land. If there were nothing but showers — we would conclude the world would be drowned. If there were nothing but sunshine — we would fear the earth would be burned. Our worldly comforts would be a sea to drown us — if our crosses were not a plank to save us! By the fairest gales — a sinner may sail to destruction! By the fiercest storms — a saint may sail to glory! When our circumstances become necessitous, our corruptions become impetuous; they rage the more, because stopped by the dam of poverty. If God withholds the Hand of providence, we employ the tongue of insolence. We too frequently bite at the stone — until we break our teeth! We murmur because we are in want — and therefore want because we murmur.

 

Contentment is the best food to preserve a sound man — and the best medicine to restore a sick man. It resembles the gilt on bitter pills, which makes a man take them — without tasting their bitterness. Contentment will make a cottage look as fair as a palace. He is not a poor man who has but little — but he is a poor man who desires much. In this sense, the poorest are often the richest, and the richest the poorest.

 

“Godliness with contentment is great gain.” This is too precious a flower to grow in every soil. Though every godly man may not always be contented — yet every truly contented man is godly. “The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need.” Such a Scripture will bring us plenty in scarcity; and fullness out of emptiness. The water in a cloud soon ceases — but the water of a fountain continues.

 

As Seneca said to Polybius, “Never complain of your hard condition, so long as Caesar is your friend.” So say I to you, “Never complain of your hard condition, Christian, so long as Jesus is your Friend!”

 

Let your condition be ever so flourishing — it is a Hell without Him. Let your condition be ever so fluctuating — it is a Heaven with Him. Can that man lack anything — who enjoys Christ; or can he be said to enjoy anything — who is without Christ? Why should Hagar lament the loss of the water in her bottle — while there is a well so near?

 

16. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to be more in love with the employment of holiness, than with the enjoyment of happiness.

 

Thousands of professors prize the wages of religion above its works — but a Christian will prize its works above its wages. Give me that singular preacher, who prefers his labor — to his lucre; and who prefers the flock he attends — to the fleece he obtains. Some men serve God — that they may serve themselves upon God. He loves not religion sincerely, who does not love it superlatively.

 

“Israel is an empty vine — he brought forth fruit for himself.” Empty — and yet fruitful; fruitful — and yet empty. Thus that fertility which springs up from the bitter roots of self — has nothing but vacuity in the account of God.

 

Such professors do not make gain stoop to godliness — but godliness to gain; which is, as if a man should fit his foot to the shoe — when he should fit the shoe to his foot. In all the good a carnal man does for God — he seeks himself more than God. The clock of his heart will stand still — unless its wheels of profit are oiled.

 

If the virgin should only give her hand in matrimony for her bridegroom’s riches — she would not espouse herself unto his person — but unto his portion. This would not make a marriage with him — but a merchandise of him. Augustine has an excellent saying; “He loves not Christ at all — who does not love Christ above all.”

 

“You seek Me, not because you saw the miracles — but because you ate the loaves, and were filled.” Christ was the object of their actions — but self was the end of their actions. They came to Christ — to serve their own turns; and when their turns were served — they then turned away their service. When the loaves were gone — these ‘disciples’ were gone. When He left off feeding them — they left off following Him!

 

Reader, until you can love the naked truth — you will never love to go naked for the truth. Most people are mercenary in those works, wherein they should be filial and free. They look more after the streams — than upon the spring from whence they constantly run; and admire the beams more than the sun from whence they are emitted. The desire for pardon, is the only spring of a servile man’s duty; he plies his prayers, as sailors do their pumps — only in a storm, or when fearful of sinking!

 

“And now, O Father, glorify Your Son, that Your Son may glorify You.” Christ prayed for glory, more for the Father’s sake, Who bestowed it — than for His Own sake, Who received it. A true Christian not only desires grace that God may glorify him — but that he also may glorify God.

 

Could carnal men find the mercies of God — they would never seek the God of mercies. Could they tell how to be well without Him — they would never desire to come to Him. God has but little of their society — except when they can find no other company.

 

Worldlings, instead of looking upon godliness as their greatest gain, will look upon gain as their greatest godliness. They love religion, not for the beauty existing in it — but for the dowry annexed to it. They are like the fox, that follows the lion for the prey that is falling from him. If there is no honey in the pot — such wasps will no longer hover about it!

 

Mark how the long-suffering God expostulates with self-seeking Israel, “During those seventy years of exile, when you fasted and mourned in the summer and at the festival in early autumn, was it really for Me that you were fasting? And even now in your holy festivals, you don’t think about Me but only of pleasing yourselves.” In fasting and in festivals — their eyes were not cast upon God — but upon themselves! They did not forgot to eat when they were hungry — but they forgot to praise God when they were full. Their greediness swallowed up all their thankfulness.

 

Reader! Remember that God will shut your duties out of Heaven — if your duties shut Him out on earth. I have heard an account of a woman, who had fire in one hand and water in the other — and was asked what she was going to do with them. She answered, “With this fire I am going to burn up all the joys of Heaven; and with this water I am going to quench all the flames of Hell; that my services to my God might neither arise from the fear of punishment, nor hope of reward.”

 

The less emphasis you lay upon your own works — the more will God lay upon them. Those who are most righteous in themselves — are least righteous to God. God has three sorts of servants in the world: some are ‘slaves’ and serve Him from a principle of fear; others are ‘hirelings’ and serve Him for the sake of wages; and the last are ‘sons’ and serve Him under the influence of love.

 

Now a hireling will be a changeling. He who will not serve God except something is given to him — would serve the devil, if the devil would give him more! Anyone shall have his works — who will but augment his wages. Many are advocates for the enjoyment of happiness, and enemies to the employment of holiness.

 

Demetrius cries up the goddess Diana; yet it was not her temple — but her silver shrines, he so much adored. He was more in love with her wealth — than with her worship. “Men, you know we receive a good income from this business.” If her temple had been demolished, their trade would have been diminished. “Does Job serve God for nothing?” Yes, for Job served God when he had nothing. He was as pious in his poverty — as in his plenty. In this sense, that man who will not serve God for nothing — is nothing in His services.

 

Love does not serve for selfish returns — but it amply pays itself in serving its beloved. It is reported of one, who, being asked for whom he labored most, he answered, “For my friends.” And being asked for whom he labored least, he answered, “For my friends.” Love does most — and yet thinks least of what it does.

 

Hypocrites are more in love with the gold of the altar, than with the God of the altar. “Woe unto you, scribes and pharisees, hypocrites; for you devour widows houses, and for a pretense make long prayers. Therefore you shall receive the greater damnation!” They painted their avarice in religious colors, and put the arms of Christ upon the devil; that iniquity might, by that means, be esteemed under the garb of religion. They fasted all the day — that they might feed upon the widows’ houses at night. They hatched the birds of oppression in the nests of devotion. These spiders weaved the web of their own works — to catch the flies of other men’s wealth!

 

The observation of Augustine is founded on much truth: “There is often a vast difference between the face of the workman — and the heart of the workman.” But a man influenced by the Lord in His services, though he may find self in them as an intruder — yet he will not allow self in them as a leader.

 

A Christian is more in love with his present duty — than he is with his future glory. Paul was contented to stay a while out of Heaven — that he might be the instrument of bringing other souls into Heaven. “To me — to live, is Christ, and to die is gain.” His life was most useful to others — but his death was most profitable to himself. By dying, he might have enjoyed his inheritance sooner; but by living, God made his usefulness greater.

 

Were it possible to put those things asunder — which God Himself has joined together, a Christian would rather be holy without any happiness — than happy without any holiness.

 

Luther had this expression; “I had rather be in Hell with Christ — than in Heaven without Christ.” Indeed, Hell itself would be a Heaven — if Christ was in it; and Heaven would be a Hell — if Christ was not in it. These are hard sayings to an uncircumcised ear — but the real choice of every renewed heart.

 

A gracious man makes this request of his soul: “Lord, let me rather have a gracious heart — than a great estate; let me rather be pious without prosperity — than prosperous without piety.” Though he may love many things besides true religion — yet he would not love anything above true religion.

 

The earth is our work-house — but Heaven is our store-house. The earth is a place to run in — and Heaven is a place to rest in.

 

17. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to be more employed in searching his own heart — than he is in censuring other men’s states.

 

Those bishops are too busily employed — who lord it over another man’s diocese. “Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and look well to your herds.” It is a matter of greater importance, to know the state of our hearts — than the state of our flocks.

 

Censorious men commonly take up magnifying glasses — to look at other people’s imperfections; and diminishing glasses — to look at their own enormities.

 

While Plato was entertaining a few friends at an elegantly spread table Diogenes, a famous cynic philosopher, trampled upon it saying, “I trample upon the pride of Plato!” To whom Plato immediately replied, “Yes, but with greater pride in Diogenes!”

 

They are the first to find fault — in whom there is much fault to be found. “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye — and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” He who blows into a heap of dust — is in danger of putting out his own eyes.

 

“What makes you better than anyone else?” Reader, are there not the same lusts lodging in your heart — which are reigning in other men’s lives? The reason why there is so little self-condemnation, is because there is so little self-examination. For lack of this, many people are like travelers, skilled in other countries — but ignorant in their own.

 

It is an evidence that those tradesmen are bankrupt in their estates — who are afraid to look into their books. Likewise, it is plain that there is something wrong within, among all those who are afraid to look within. The trial of ourselves — is the ready road to the knowledge of ourselves. He who buys a jewel in a box, deserves to be deceived with a fake stone.

 

Reader, would you see God? then cast your eyes upwards; would you see yourself? then cast you eyes inward. Contemplation is a magnifying glass to see our Savior in — but examination is a looking-glass to view ourselves in. Are we then in the narrow way, which leads to life — or in the broad way which leads to death? Are we Christ’s bride — or Satan’s harlots? Are our hearts chairs for vice to sit on — or thrones for grace to rule in?

 

Nero thought no person chaste — because he was so unchaste himself. Such as are troubled with the jaundice — see all things yellow. Those who are most pious — are least censorious. “Who are you that judge another man’s servant?” Those who are fellow creatures with men — should not be fellow judges with God. Reader, why will you probe another man’s wound — while your own is festering? Take heed that your own vesture is not full of dirt — when you are brushing the dust off your neighbor. Complain not of dirty streets — when heaps of rubbish lie at your own doors! Many people are not happy — unless they are poking their fingers into another’s sores. Such are no better in their conduct than crows — which prey only upon carrion. “But let every man prove his own work — and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.”

 

For lack of self-examination, men have their accounts to cast up — when they should have them to deliver up. They have their evidences of grace to seek — when they should have them to show. They lie down with such hopes in their beds of rest — with which they dare not lie down in their beds of dust. Conversion begins in consideration. The hasty shower falls fastest — but the soft snow sinks the deepest.

 

As that mariner who is inattentive to his helm, is in danger of wrecking his vessel — so he who knows not himself, is likely to lose himself. “Examine yourselves — to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.” If your heart is not the cabinet of such a jewel — your head will never be graced with a diadem in glory. If you must needs be a judge — then pray sit upon your own bench. I shall ever esteem such to be but religious lepers — who care not for Scripture looking-glasses. He who never cries out, “Woe is me — for I am undone!” will never hear Christ’s “Go in peace.” Self-examination, is the beaten path to perfection; it is like fire — which not only tries the gold — but purifies it also.

 

The heathen tell us, that “Know yourself” was an oracle which came down from Heaven. It is this oracle, which will lead us up to the God of Heaven. The sight of yourself in grace — will bring you to the sight of God in glory! The plague of the body is not every man’s plague — but the plague of the soul is. If the plague of the soul were known more — the plague of the body would be feared less. Though there may be a more pleasant sight — yet there is not a more profitable sight. Until you know how deep the pit is, into which you are fallen — you will never properly praise that Hand which raises you out of it.

 

The bottom of our diseases — lies in not searching our diseases, to the bottom. So we put on some filthy rags to cover our nakedness — and we then wickedly despise the Savior’s righteousness.

 

“He who trusts his own heart is a fool!” And yet such fools are we — as to trust our own hearts! The Lord searches all hearts by His omniscient eye; but He searches His people’s hearts by the eye of His mercy. If a man would know whether the sun shines — it is better to view its beams on the pavement, than its body in the sky. The readiest way to know whether you are in Christ — is to know whether Christ is in you. For the fruit on the tree is more visible — than the root of the tree.

 

18. Another singular action of a consistent Christian, is to set out for God at our beginning — and to hold out with God unto the end.

 

First — To set out for God at our beginning. “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come.” In the distillation of strong waters, the first drawn is fullest of spirits. “The first of the first-fruits of your land — you shall bring into the house of the Lord your God.” God prizes a Christian in the bud — and delights in the blossoms of youth, above the sheddings of old age.

 

Naturalists inform us, that the most orient pearls, are generated from the morning dew. That field is full of the richest corn — which is cleansed from its noxious weeds in the spring. How pleasant is it to see the thousands of spiritual Israel, seeking the heavenly manna in the morning of their lives. Is it not better to cry for mercy on earth with the publican — than to call for water in Hell with Dives? To discover grace in an old sinner, is well — but to view it in vigorous youth, is better. All the sacrificial animals, were offered to God in their prime. Jesus was carried in triumph upon a colt.

 

No music could ever equalize the Heaven-born cries of new-born babes. When the snow-drops of youth appear in the garden of the church — it shows that there is a glorious summer approaching.

 

If youth is sick of the will-nots, old age is in danger of dying of the shall-nots. It is hard to cast off the devil’s yoke — when we have worn it long upon our necks! “Can a man be born again — when he is old?” Grace seldom grafts upon such withered stocks. An old sinner is nearer to the second death — than he is to the second birth. It is more likely to see his soul taken out of the flesh — than the flesh taken out of his soul. His body is nearer to corruption, than his soul is to salvation.

 

Where the enemy is the strongest — there the victory is the hardest. Usually, where the devil pleads antiquity — he keeps propriety. As there are none so old, as that they should despair of mercy — so there are none so young, as that they should presume on mercy. If God’s “today” is too soon for your repentance; your “tomorrow” may be too late for His acceptance. Mercy’s clock does not always strike at our beck! The longer poison stays in the body — so much the more harmful are its effects. O how amiable are the golden apples of grace — in the silver pictures of blooming youth! God prizes a young friend — but punishes an old enemy. Old sinners are much like old serpents — the fullest of poison!

 

It is singularly pleasant to view the Ancient of Days — in infants of days; and to see green pieces of timber — being squared for the celestial building. Blessed are those in whom grace is in its prosperity, while their nature is in its minority. “I have more understanding than my teachers.” His youth — was wiser than their age. His dawning was brighter than their noontide. And this was the more admirable, because it was in his youth; for when our lives are the most vigorous — our lusts are the most boisterous.

 

You teach a dog while he is a pup; and break a horse while he is a colt. A plentiful harvest, is the outcome of an early seed time. Young reader, remember that your youthful sins — lay a foundation for aged sorrows. You have but one arrow to shoot at the mark — and if that is shot at random, God may never put another into your bow!

 

“I am Alpha and Omega; the beginning and the ending; the first and the last.” He who is the first and the last, should be served from the first to the last. You can never come too soon — to Him who is your beginning; and you can never stay too long — with Him who is your ending. The flower of life is of Christ’s setting, and shall it be of the devil’s cropping?

 

But what is setting out, without holding out? Mutability is at best but the badge of infirmity. It can only be those trees which are unsound at their roots — which cease from putting forth leaves in their season. Those who at present are inwardly corrupt — will in the future be openly profane. False grace is always declining, until it is wholly lost. But true grace goes from a morning’s dawn — unto a meridian splendor. It is just to be cast off from God — for casting off the ways and works of God.