do they who flee to Christ for refuge, testify to all around them, that there is salvation in Him, and in him alone.]
3. To give honour unto God —
[It was by these offerings, that the various services of the tabernacle (by which above all things God was honoured) were maintained. And who are they that now honour God in the world ? Who are they that truly and spiritually maintain his worship ? We fear not to say, that God is more acceptably served by his penitent and believing people, than by all the world besides. The gift of his only-begotten Son to die for us is that which he himself most commends to our attention ; nor can he be more glorified on earth, or even in heaven itself, than in acknowledgments of our obligations to him for this stupendous effort of his love.]
Application —
Amongst the Israelites there were several classes exempt from the payment of this tax: but none amongst us can plead any exemption from that which is required of us, the tribute of a broken and contrite spirit —
1. Not the Levites —
[These were not numbered for war, and therefore were not included in the tax k. But the Levites amongst us should be the very first to devote themselves to God, and to render to him that tribute, which they demand from others ]
2. Not old people —
[These for the same reason were omitted both in the num- bering and the taxation. But who have so much cause to bear in mind the atonement of Christ as they who are on the borders of eternity, and are so soon to stand at his judgment-seat ? It is to be lamented, that people advanced in years too generally take for granted that all is well with them, though they have never sought " a ransom, or an atonement, for their souls." But let the aged amongst us be diligent in working out their salvation, and " so much the more as they see the day approaching."]
3. Not women —
[These were considered as included in the men ; and therefore were not personally either taxed or numbered. But our offerings must be personal : nothing can be done by proxy : as there is " neither Jew nor Greek amongst us, so is there neither male nor female:" all must be judged by their own works, and all must be accepted through their own faith.]
k Numb. i. 47.