shall the whole universe combined prevent the execution of his vengeance on one single individual amongst themz.]
The observance of ceremonial duties will never compensate for the want of true humility —
[Judah retained the forms of religion which Israel and Ephraim had cast away. Yet because Judah resembled Israel in their sin, they were to be involved in Israel's calamity3. Thus must all, however zealous and exemplary in other re- spects, be brought down and confounded before Godb. Even a preacher of righteousness, if lifted up with pride, shall fall into the condemnation of the devil0. The rule laid down by God himself shall surely be observed to all eternity d — .]
Infer —
1. How excellent is the Gospel of Christ !
[Nothing but the Gospel ever did, or ever can, humble the soul. The law may terrify ; but it is the Gospel alone that melts us into contrition. That no sooner reaches the heart, than it brings down our high looks. It turned, in an instant, thousands of blood-thirsty murderers, into meek, loving, and obedient followers of the Lambe. And thus does it still operate on all who receive it in sincerity f. Let us then listen to it with delight. Let us pray, that a sight of the crucified Saviour may produce its due effect upon usg. And let us lothe ourselves the more in proportion as we are persuaded that God is pacified towards ush.]
2. What need have we all to watch and pray !
[There are none who are out of the reach of this malig- nant principle. St. Paul, after having been caught up to the third heavens, was in danger of being overwhelmed by it1. And who amongst us does not find that it is ready to puff us upon every occasion ? Let us remember that this ruined the very angels in heaven. And that it must be mortified in us, if ever we would obtain mercy in the last day. Let us guard against the first risings of it in the heart ; and, whenever it " testifies to our face," let us implore mercy of the Lord, that the thought of our hearts may be forgiven usk. In this way we shall be preserved, though in the midst of danger ; and be exalted in due time to glory, and honour, and immortality.]
z Prov. xvi. 5. a The text. b Isai. ii. 11, 12.
c 1 Tim. hi. 0. d Luke xviii. 14. e Acts ii. 37, 41, 42.
f Acts ix. 6. and xvi. 29, 33. g Zech. xii. 10.
h Ezek. xvi. 03. » 2 Cor. xii. 7. k Acts vhi. 22.