faith in Christ is rather nominal, than real ; and that, while they acknowledge him as a Saviour, they do not cordially cleave unto him, or unreservedly embrace him.]
4. His cause and interests are opposed —
[One would imagine that they who do not reverence Christ themselves, would at least permit others to honour and adore him. But " the carnal mind is enmity against him;" and nothing will more effectually call forth that enmity, than a zealous endeavour to glorify his name. Men can see people on every side neglecting and despising Christ, and never once endeavour to reclaim them from their evil ways : but let any person begin to reverence Christ in his heart, and to manifest his regard to him by a suitable conversation, and they will instantly feel a fear and jealousy lest he should love and serve the Saviour too much. However excellent his conduct be, lie will become an object of contempt and ridicule, in propor- tion as his love to Christ is influential on his heart and life. We appeal to matter of fact: Are not they who were respected and beloved while they were utterly regardless of Christ, con- sidered as weak and contemptible as soon as ever they submit to his authority, and devote themselves to his service ? Or, if their weight of character bear down this reproach, are they not lowered at least in the estimation of the world ? It is a fact, that they are looked upon as signs and wonders; and that it is thought a disgrace by many even to be acquainted with them.
How astonishing then must be the disappointment of God the Father, when his only, his beloved Son is not merely re- jected by the world whom he came to save, but is made a stone of stumbling and a rock of offence, insomuch that an unfeigned attachment to him shall be sufficient to call forth their most contemptuous revilings, and, in many instances, their most cruel resentment !]
Address —
1. Those who are disappointing the expectations
of their God —
[You doubtless have expectations respecting the manner in which you shall be treated in the day of judgment. You are saying, ' My God will surely have mercy upon me, and will save my soul.' But, if you are continually disappointing the expectations of your God, shall not you also be disappointed ? Shall his hopes be frustrated, and yours realized ; more espe- cially when his are founded on such a reasonable basis, and yours are altogether groundless? Ah! be assured of this, that God will have respect to none who do not reverence his dear Son; and that Jesus himself will say at last, " Bring