Whence I infer, that man will not, at the last day, be condemned because he had not atoned for his sins, and had not renewed his own mind, but because he had neglected the means, or, which is in effect the same thing, had neither applied to the Redeemer for pardon, nor to the Spirit for renovation; agreeably to the command of our Lord, Luke xi. 9-13.

Difficulties, on such a mysterious subject especially, may, doubtless, be started; but if this be the Scripture view of it, then no objection can be valid against that which has previously been proved to be true. The entire dependence of man upon the Spirit of all grace is established. The value, importance, and connexion of the means appointed with the end are clear. The distinction between duty and privilege is marked with the utmost precision. And the moral character of man, in reference to the Deity, is fully developed. Ample provision is made, the invitations are sent; but, unbelief, voluntary ignorance, listlessness, pride, the love of the

world, separately or collectively, steel the heart, dim the eye, and stop the ear. The trial is made. Death arrives. Judgment follows. And last of all, the punishment. For "it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God," in such aggravated circumstances. Grace, wisdom, love, and power, ungratefully, heedlessly slighted, and the fairest opportunities unimproved, and-now, lost for ever.

On the other hand, the means have been used. The divine blessing has been sought; and "being in the way the Lord met with him."9 Refreshed and encouraged here, death at length opens the gate, and the immortal spirit, entering into that wondrous region, whose atmosphere is light, purity and love, joins "the general assembly and church of the first born," till the day when "the Lord of Hosts shall make up his jewels ;" and so shall all such "be ever with the Lord." Then fixing their strong and immortal eye upon "his face," they like

"The rapt seraph will adore and burn."

9 Gen. xxiv. 27.

"The Spirit, and the bride say, come. And let him that heareth, say, come. And let him that is athirst, come. And whosoever will, let him take of the water of life freely."

Rev. xxii. 17.

THE END.

LONDON:

IBOISON AND PALMER, PRINTERS, SAVOY STREET, STRAND.