" He knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him."
Sentences like this are found so frequently in tlie Gospels that we are apt to underrate their importance. Yet there are few truths which we shall find it so good for our souls to remember as tlint which is contained in the sentence before us. The Saviour with whom we have to do is one who knows all things I
What light this throws on the marvellous patience of the Lord Jesus in the days of His earthly ministry ! He knew the sorrow and humiliation befoi'e Him, and the manner of His death. He knew the unbelief and treachery of some who professed to be His familiar friends. But " for the joy that was set before Him" he endured it all. (Heb. xii. 2.)
What light this throws on the folly of hypocrisy and false profession in religion ! Let those who are guilty of it recollect that they cannot deceive Christ. He sees them, knows them, and will expose them at the last day, except they repent. Whatever we are as Christians, and however weak, let us be real, true, and sincere.
Finally, what light this throws on the daily pilgrimage of all true Christians ! Let them take comfort in the thought that their Master knows them. However much unknown and misunderstood by the world, their Master knows their hearts, and will comfort them at the last day. Happy is he who, in spite of many infirmities, can say with Peter : *' Lord, thou knovvest all things ; thou knowest that I love thee." (John xxi. 1*7.)
Notes, John VI. 60—65.
60. — [Many, therefore of his disciples.] It is plain that tliese were not true believers. Many who followed our Lord about, and were called His " disciples," had no real pfrace in their hearts, and followed Him from carnal motives. We must expect to see the same thing in every age. Not all who come to church, nor
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