Id improving this subject, we shall find abundant matter of reproof to the ungodly, of encourage- ment to the humble, and of direction to all.
1. Reproof to the ungodly —
On the most diligent inquiry into the life and con- duct of our Lord, we shall find that he omitted nothing that was necessary for the effecting of our reconcilia- tion with God. Yet how ill is he requited by the generality of mankind ! Notwithstanding he has come down from heaven for our salvation, and accom- plished the work which had been given him to do, the ungodly world will scarcely bestow a thought upon him. Instead of " exalting" him in their minds, and " extolling" him with their lips, and setting him " very high" in their affections, they regard him little more, than if all that is related of him were a mere fable. Every earthly vanity can fix their attention, and engage their favour ; but he, whose condescension and grace have filled all heaven with wonder, can attract no notice. What base ingratitude is this on the part of man ! What is it but practically to deny the Redeemer's excellency, and to frustrate, as far as in us lies, the purposes of God respecting him ? It is, in fact, to say that, whatever reward God has decreed to give him for his services, he shall receive no part of it from us. And who amongst us has not been guilty of this conduct ? Who has not passed months and years without any admiration of his love, any zeal for his honour ? If he were as much forgotten by all, as he has been by the generality, his very name would soon be put out of remembrance. What more awful proof of our fallen nature can we have ; what greater evidence of our apostasy from God ? " If God were our Father, we should love Christ ; if we were true believers, he would be precious to our souls." And if God has said that " all who forget him shall be turned into hell," shall our forgetfulness of his dear Son involve us in no danger ? Is it without reason that the Apostle asks, " How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation ?" Surelv if we exalt him