little conception how great a benefit God at this time be- stowed on Jericho. There was from that time no more death in the water, or barrenness in the land. Even after the de- struction of Jerusalem by the Romans, the spring continued both abmadant and. salubrious, as the Jewish historian informs us; yea, and to this very hour it so remains, as modern travellers have attested.]
But what was that benefit, in comparison of the blessings conferred on us by the Gospel ?
[The blessings of salvation itself are imparted to us by the preaching, the simple preaching, of Christ crucified. Wlio can estimate this benefit ? Think of a new heart being given to us, and a new spirit renewed within us. Think of the whole life and conversation as so changed, that in the place of the brier grows up the fir-tree, and instead of the thorn grows up the myrtle-tree, and all the fruits of righteousness abound to the praise and glory of God. Yet shall this be wrought through the ministry of the word, in every place, and in every heart, where the Gospel is faithfully administered, and humbly received. Yes, it is not to one town or country that this mercy shall be vouchsafed, but to every country under heaven, where the Gospel comes: nor shall the benefits be continued only through the contracted span of this life, but through the endless ages of eternity. Not that it is to be expected to any great extent, except through the intervention of his ministers: for he delights to honour his own ordinances, and his own servants, whom he has sent to minister his blessings to man- kind. He might have healed the springs of Jericho, without either the use of salt, or the agency of Elisha : and so he may impart salvation to men without the ministry of a preached Gospel : but it is only in the use of his appointed means that we are authorized to expect his proffered blessings. Never- theless, if we use the appointed means in faith, we may expect, from the abundance of his mercy, every benefit which our souls can desire.]
Address those who feel their need of God's mer- ciful intervention —
[The men of Jericho had neglected to avail themselves of the presence of Elijah, who was now for ever withdi-awn from them : and it was only through the unforeseen circumstance of Ehsha waiting for the return of the men who had been sent to search for Elijah, that he was detained there a few days. Now, therefore, they seize the opportunity afforded them, and beseech his intercession with the Deity in their behalf: and thus they obtain the benefit which they so greatly needed. Beloved Brethren, think how many opportunities you have