wearied in trying to do good to the souls of all mankind. If we cannot go to the heathen in China and Hindostan, let us seek to enlighten the darkness which we shall easily find within reach of our own door. Let us lahor on, unmoved by the sneers and taunts of those who dis- approve missionary operations, and hold them up to scorn. We may well pity such people. They only show their ignorance, both of Scripture and of Christ's will. They understand neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.
We ought to notice, secondly, in these verses, the terms which our Lord tells us should be offered to all who hear the Gospel. " He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved ; but he that believeth not shall be damned." Every word in that sentence is of deep import- ance. Every expression in it deserves to be carefully weighed.
We are taught here the importance of baptism. It is an ordinance generally necessary to salvation, where it can be had. Not "he that believeth" simply, but " he that believeth and is baptized shall be saved." Thousands no doubt receive not the slightest benefit from their baptism. Thousands are washed in sacramental water, who are never washed in the blood of Christ. But it does not follow therefore that baptism is to be despised and neglected. It is an ordinance appointed by Christ Himself, and when used reverently, intelligently, and prayerfully, is doubtless accompanied by a special blessing. The baptismal water itself conveys no grace. We must look far beyond the mere outward element to Him who commanded it to be used. But the public confession of Christ, which is implied in the use of that water, is a