[See how deplorable is the present state of God's ancient people : compare it with the former periods of their history when they were so signally honoured with the presence of their God in the wilderness, and at Sinai, and in the days of David
and Solomon Shall not the contrast fill you with pity
and compassion ? Methinks you can scarcely have the feelings of men, much less of Christians, if you do not weep over then forlorn and destitute condition. See how Nehemiah felt the
desolations of Zion in his day x ! and is there not yet
greater occasion for you to do so now ? See how Daniel set himself to implore mercy for his brethren, encouraged by the near approach of the time destined for their deliverance y
And let the prospect we have of an infinitely greater
deliverance for them, stimulate you to similar exertions in their behalf. Let nothing be wanting on your part that can con- tribute to their good. Your time, your money, your influence will be well employed in so glorious a cause : and be assured that in endeavouring to " water others, you shall be watered yourselves."]
2. Seek to experience the good work in your own souls —
[We would not so draw your attention to the vineyard of others, as to divert it from your own. If it be desirable for the Jews to " fear the name of the Lord, and to behold his glory," it is surely no less desirable for you also. Brethren, this charity must begin at home. It will be a fearful thing to " preach to others, and to become cast away ourselves." Begin then, every one of you, to seek the favour of God to your own souls. Truly it is lamentable to see in what a state our Christian Zion is : and how many amongst us differ little from the Jews, except in name and profession. And in this we are far more guilty than they, because, whilst they are misled through the blindness that is come upon them, we sin against light and knowledge, and, Judas-like, betray the Saviour whom we profess to love. Let us hope, however, that the time for God to favour us is come ; (O that it may be come, and that our eyes may see it !) and that the tabernacle of David which is fallen down, shall be speedily reared amongst us, to the glory of God, and to the salvation of many souls. Much as we desire your aid for the Jewish nation, our first desire is, that you yourselves may be saved. In this we are sanctioned by the apostle Paul, who, whilst he pitied the Gentile world, desired to be accursed from Christ if it might but be instrumental to the saving of his brethren the Jews. To you then, Brethren, we say, First give your own selves to the Lord, and afterwards to us, by the will of God z ]
* Neh. ii. 2, 3. y Dan. ix. 2, 3. * 2 Cor. viii. 5.