it
^ 1 John lii. 16. i Rom. vii. 7, 9. • John xiv. 6.
228 1 JOHX, ir. e. [1180.
it had been obscured; declaring, that it extended to the thoughts and desires of the heart, no less than to the overt act. In particular he made known the great duty of love, as comprehending the whole law in all its branches, and in its utmost extent. Thus in relation both to doctrine and morals it might be truly said, that " the darkness was past, and the true light then shined."]
The darkness was also dispelled from their minds — [All by nature are in darkness : and, even though the light shines around them, they are not able to apprehend it ; " the eyes of their understanding being altogether darkened." Of all whilst in a stateof unbelief it is expressly said, that "the God of this world hath blinded their eyes^" But by the Go- spel, accompanied with power from on high, they had been " turned from darkness unto light, and from the power of Satan unto God^." They now acknowledged Jesus as their Saviour ; and had obtained " reconciliation with God through the blood of his cross." They had now an insight into that stupendous mystery, which all " the angels in heaven are de- siring to look into," the redemption of the world by the sacri- fice of our incarnate God ; and, together with that, had ac- quired just views of the state in which a redeemed sinner ought to live. In a word, they had been " brought out of darkness into marvellous light ''." So that they were able to appreciate tlie necessity and the excellency of the commandment which was now enjoined.]
But let US contemplate this glorious change, II. As fulfilled also amongst ourselves —
Certainly, the true light does shine among you — • [Th6 Lord Jesus " Christ is fully preached among you." His person, his work, his offices are set before you. You have seen from time to time the types, as completed in their great Antitype ; and the prophecies, as fulfilled in hun to whom they had respect, even " Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of Joseph." The covenant of grace, which w^as made with him in our be- half, has been opened to you, and all the great and precious promises that are contained in it unfolded to your view. Sal- vation, in all its freeness, and in all its fulness, has been offered to you ; and all the perfections of God, as pledged for your encouragement, have been brought in review before you. Nor has the nature of evangelical obedience been either partially or sparingly declared. The distinction between the letter and the sf)irit of the law has been copiously displayed; and all the higli requirements of the Gospel been made known; and not
declared ' 2 Cor. iv. 4. « Acts xxvi. 18. '' 1 Pet, ii. Q.