We do not mean to exclude his Godhead from this great work of redemption : it is that which gives efficacy to all which he did and suffered as man. But never- theless it is as man, that is, as the God-man, that we feel our relation to him, and have access unto him as our sympathizing friend.
Infer —
1. What objects of pity are they who have no in- terest in Christ !
[They are exposed to all the wrath of a sin-avenging God: And where, where will they flee for safety ? Where will they even procure a drop of water in that land of drought and misery, to which they shall be banished? Alas ! there is no protection but in this city of refuge ; there is no water but in this fountain. O that men would consider what they shall do in the day of their visitation ; and flee for refuge to the hope that is now set before them ° !]
2. How highly privileged are they who believe in Christ
[They are not exempt from occasional distress either of soul or body, but they have an almighty Friend to whom they can carry their distress : they go to him when heavy-laden ; and find rest unto their souls. They feel themselves secure in their blood-sprinkled dwellings. But their privileges will not be fully seen till the last day. Then how happy in having a covert from the wrath that overwhelms the ungodly world ! Then to have their Saviour both for their witness and their judge ! Let us all cleave to him with full purpose of heart ; and desire to know him more and more as " our friend and our beloved."]
0 Heb. vi. 18.