alone, they resent the offer as a wild conceit and an Anti- nomian delusion.]
From the striking resemblance which there is be- tween the conduct of Naaman and that of those who reject the Gospel, we shall take occasion to add a few words of advice —
1. Bring not to the Gospel any pre-conceived no- tions of your own —
[Every man, of necessity, forms to himself some idea of the way in which he is to obtain acceptance with God : but when we come to the Holy Scriptures, we must lay aside all our own vain conceits, and sit at the feet of Jesus, to learn what he has spoken, and to do what he has commanded. We must not dictate to God what he shall say, but with the doci- lity of little children receive instruction from him.]
2. Let not passion dictate in matters of religion —
[Many who hear perhaps a single sermon, or even a single expression, are offended, and shut their ears against the truth from that time. But, if candid investigation be ever called for, surely it is required in the concerns of religion ; where the truths proposed must of necessity be offensive to the carnal mind, and where the consequences of admitting or rejecting them must so deeply affect our everlasting welfare.]
3. Be willing to take advice even from your m- feriors —
[Naaman, under the influence of pride and passion, thought himself right in rejecting the proposals of the prophet: but his servants saw how erroneously he judged, and how absurdly he acted. Thus many who are our inferiors in sta- tion or learning may see how unreasonably we act in the con- cerns of our souls, and especially in rejecting the Gospel of Christ. The Lord grant that we may be willing to listen to those who see more clearly than ourselves, and be as ready to use God's method of cleansing for our souls, as Naaman was for the healing of his body !]
4. JVIake trial of the method proposed for your salvation —
[No sooner did Naaman submit to use the means pre- scribed, than he derived from them all the benefit that he could desire. And shall any one go to Christ in vain ? Shall any one wash in the fountain of his blood in vain? No : the most leprous of mankind sliall be healed of his disorders ; and the wonders of Betliesda s pool be renewed in all that will