of him in peace, without spot and blameless11." As we said to others, that an inoffensive conduct will not suffice ; so we must say to you, that a religious profession will not suffice. _ You know full well in what a state men ought to die ; (how penitent, how believing, how devout in their minds, how subdued in their tempers, how superior to the world, how intent on heavenly things :) this then is the state in which you ought to live .-that, when Jesus shall say to you, " Surely I come quickly ;" you may be ready at all times to answer, " Even so, come, Lord Jesus x."]
>! 2 Pet. hi. 10 — 14. x Rev. xxii. 20.
lot's wife. Luke xvii. 32. Remember Lofs wife.
IT is necessary for mariners frequently to consult charts or maps, which have been formed for the pur- pose of pointing out to them the different bearings of different countries, and of guarding them against latent obstacles which would endanger the safety of their ship. But notwithstanding the utmost care that has been taken to ascertain the situation of rocks and shoals, it often happens that ships are wrecked, where no caution has been given in the most approved charts, and where no danger was apprehended. This however cannot happen to persons sailing for the port of heaven. There is not a rock or shoal that is not plainly laid down in the inspired volume; nor is there any fear of shipwreck to those who will follow the course which is there prescribed. That multitudes do perish, notwithstanding they have that volume before them, is certain. Many who have for a long time enjoyed, like Demas, a prosperous voyage, have yet, through their inattention to the cautions given them, struck upon the rocks of worldliness, and come short of the desired harbour. But the fault is in themselves only; they have been guarded in a peculiar manner against the danger to which they were ex- posed : it had been said to them, and it is said to us also, " Remember Lot's wife." But let us inquire,