We are taught, for another thing, in these verses, the 2'>erfect knowledge wJdch Christ has of all Ills peoj^le. lie can distinguish between false profession and true grace. The Church may be deceived, and rank men as Apostles who are nothing better than brethren of Judas Lscariot. But Jesus is never deceived, for He can read liearts. And here He declares with peculiar emphasis, " I know whom I have chosen."
This perfect knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ is a very solemn thought, and one which cuts two ways. It ought to fill the hypocrite with alarm, and drive him to repentance. Let him remember that the eyes of the all-seeing Judge already see him through and through, and detect the want of a wedding garment. If he would not be put to shame before assembled worlds, let him cast aside his false profession, and confess his sin before it is too late. Believers, on the other hand, may think of an all-knowing Saviour with comfort. They may remember, when misunderstood and slandered by an evil world, that their Master knows all. He knows that they are true and sincere, however weak and failing. A time is coming when He will confess them before His Father, and bring forth their characters clear and bright as the summer sun at noon-day.
We are taught, finally, in these verses, the true dig- nity of Chrises disciples. The world may despise and ridicule the Apostles because they care more for works of love and humility than the pursuits of the world. But the Master bids them remember their commission, and not be ashamed. They are God's ambassadors, and have no cause to be cast down. " Yerily, verily," He declares, "He that receiveth whomsoever I send receiv- eth Me ; and he that receiveth Me receiveth Him that Bent Me."
The dDctrine here laid down is full of encourafre-