neighbour accounts all this as folly : but the time is coming, and very shortly too, when it will be made to appear which of the two was really wise ]
2. Of what immense importance is the Gospel !
[It is the Gospel only that changes the hearts of men. Doubtless God may use anij means, or accomplish the conver- sion of a soul loithoiU means : but his appointed means are the Gospel, with which, in all ages, he has " turned men from darkness unto light, and from the power of Satan unto God." My dear Brethren, I do hope that some at least of you can bear testimony to the truth of what I say. Once you were as blind as others: but now you see. Once you had no more concern about your souls than others; and lived, like others, for this world only : but now, through the grace of God, you are brought to tread in the steps of Christ and his holy Apostles, and to value nothing in compaiison of the favour of your God. And what is it that has made this difference between your present and your former selves? It is the Spirit of Christ that has quickened you, and the love of Christ that yet daily con- strains you : and by this change you are assimilated to the glorified saints and angels, yea, and to the image of God him- self. Bear testimony, then, to the truth and efficacy of the Gospel ; and commend that to others which you have found so effectual for your own souls.]