might be intimated in these expressions1; since it is certain that we, under the clearer light of the Gospel, are taught to look to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, as the distinct, though united, authors of all spiritual goodm. We ought indeed to reverence God's ministers as the authorized dis- pensers of his blessings n ; but we must look for the blessings themselves to God alone ; and endeavour to exercise faith on the Father as the fountain of them, on Christ as the channel in which they flow, and on the Holy Spirit as the agent, by whose divine energy they are imparted to the soul0. At the same time we should remember the obligation which these mercies lay us under to devote ourselves entirely to the service of our gracious and adorable Benefactor.]
3. However weak the ordinances be in themselves, yet shall they, if attended in faith, be available for our greatest good —
[Nothing can be conceived more simple in itself than a priestly benediction : yet, most undoubtedly, it brought down many blessings upon the people. And can we suppose that God will put less honour upon his ordinances under the Gospel dispensation? Shall not "grace, mercy and peace, flow down from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ," in answer to the fervent intercessions of his ministers p? Though ministers be but earthen vessels, yet shall they impart unto the people the richest treasures q. Their word shall not be in vain, but shall accomplish God's good pleasure, and prosper in the thing whereunto he has sent itr. Let not then the bene- diction be so often slighted, as though it were only a signal to depart : but while it is delivered with solemnity in the name of God, let every heart be expanded to receive the benefit. Let every one consider himself in particular as the person addressed s; and may the experience of all attest at this time, that God is ready to " grant us above all that we can ask or think."]
1 See Bishop Patrick on the place. m 2 Cor. xiii. 14.
n 1 Thess. v. 13. ° Rev. i. 4, 5.
p 2 Tim. i. 2. These three words seem to contain all that is implied in the text. <i 2 Cor. iv. 7. r Isai. lv. 10, 11.
s " Thee " was repeated six times, though addressed to the whole congregation, that every person might feel himself as much interested as if he alone were present. See the text.