PREFACE.

ONCE more, and for the last time, I venture to appear before the public. Little can be expected from a man of eighty-seven, when the faculties both of body and mind, especially the eyes and memory, are fast declining. I have no hesitation in saying, that this little volume contains much excellent matter. As to the character of the composition, I can only say, that I have done what I could under the infirmities of age. The book was written but once over, and that when I could not see to correct it myself; therefore inaccuracies and repetitions may occur. My former productions were well received, and made useful to many. I trust, that this, which must necessarily be my last, will be so blessed of God, as to win many a wandering sinner to the Saviour, and assist and comfort believers in their way home to heaven.

T. J.

Creaton, April 25, 1839.

THE FOUNTAIN OF LIFE;

OR

THE UNION BETWEEN CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH.

INTRODUCTION.

1. WHEN We contemplate the Son of God coming down from heaven to earth, and putting on the nature of man, we look at what astonished all the angels in heaven. Multitudes of them hastened down to Bethlehem to see this most marvellous act of God. And beholding the Son of God wearing human flesh, for the purpose of man's redemption, they sang a new song, which angels never sang before, and joyfully cried aloud, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace; goodwill towards men." "A Saviour is born, which is Christ the Lord." These are good tidings of great joy, which shall be unto all people.

Again, when we survey the whole life of Immanuel, God in our flesh, and look at the rivers of affliction which he passed through; the unexampled and intolerable sufferings and tortures which he meekly endured, and the ignominious death of the cross, which he

B