and we should do well to imitate this conduct. To those who possess not the word of God, we should carry it : and as now there are plans for diffusing that word throughout all the world, we should labour, each according to his ability, to advance that blessed work. Moreover we should read it to those who are not able to read ; or, at least, should procure them instruction, that they may read it for themselves. Nor should we be afraid to shew our veneration for it in the presence of kings and princes, or to suggest to them the necessity of attending to it themselves.]
3. To deal faithfully with those who pour con- tempt upon it —
[It is spoken to the reproach of these princes, that though they made intercession to the king not to burn the roll, they did not rend their clothes, either through a fear of God's judgments, or through an abhorrence of his impiety. And truly, when we can see the contempt with which the Holy Scriptures are treated by all around us, and not weep for the dishonour done to God, or for the injury which men do to their own souls, we shew that we ourselves are far from valuing the Scriptures as we ought. " Rivers of tears ran down David's cheeks," when he observed how men transgressed the laws of God : and is there not the same occasion for us to weep ? Do we believe indeed that every word of God is true, and feel no pity for those who are exposed to all the curses that are contained therein ? O seek a compassionate regard for man, and a holy zeal for God ! and let none ever be ashamed to attest this truth, that " the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom ; and to depart from evil, is understanding r."]
r Job xxviii. 28.