" take with us one or two" companions, and tell our brother of his fault in their presence and hearing. Who can tell but his conscience may be stricken, when he finds his misconduct made known, and he may be ashamed and repent ? If not, we shall at all events have the testimony of witnesses, that we did all we could to bring our brother to a right mind, and that he de- liberately refused, when appealed to, to make amends.
Finally, if this second course of proceeding prove useless, we are to refer the whole matter to the Christian congregation of which we are members — we are to " tell it to the church." Who can tell but the heart which has been unmoved by private remonstrances, may be moved by the fear of public exposure ? If not, there remains but one view to take of our brother's case — we must sorrowfully regard him as one who has shaken off all Christian principles, and will be guided by no higher motives than " a heathen man and a publican."
The passage is a beautiful instance of the mingled wisdom and tender consideration of our Lord's teaching. What a knowledge it shows of human nature ! Nothing does so much harm to the cause of religion as the quar- rels of Christians. No stone should be left unturned, no trouble spared, in order to prevent their being dragged before the pubbc. — What a delicate thoughtfulness it shows for the sensitiveness of poor human nature ! Many a scandalous breach would be prevented, if we were more ready to practice the rule of " between thee and him alone." Happy would it be for the Church and the workl, if this portion of our Lord's teaching was more carefully studied and obeyed. Differences and
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