2. The object of their life —
[Every Christian has the very same end in view as Jesus himself had ; even to " glorify God on earth, and to finish the work which God has given him to do." In these respects Christ is an example to us ; and every one of his followers is bound to " walk as he walked." See then, brethren, that ye maintain this character, and that " there be in you the same mind as was in your Saviour Christ." If ye be his indeed, ye will make this the one object of your life, to glorify your God and Father. Every day brings with it its appointed work, which it becomes you to execute with all fidelity; that, when your last hour shall arrive, you may be able, amidst all your short-comings and defects, to say, * Father, sinful as I am, and conscious of
m Phil. ii. 9—11. » Rev. v. 6.
0 Rev. v. 13. i' 1 Cor. xv. 28.
innumerable infirmities, yet I can with humility appeal to thee, that I have, according to the grace given me, endeavoured to " glorify thee on earth, and to finish the work which thou hast given me to do.'"]
3. The end of their labours —
[For every faithful follower of Christ is a recompence reserved, even glory and honour and immortality, at the right hand of God. Yes, in a dying hour the true Christian may look up with confidence, and say, ' "Now, Father, glorify thou me with thine own self, with the glory" that I shall have with thee when this world shall no longer exist. To this recompence have I had respect ; and for the hope of it I have willingly re- signed all that this world could give me ; yea, and cheerfully endured also all that thine enemies have been permitted to inflict : and now do I welcome death itself, that I may enter into the joy of my Lord, and be for ever with my God.' Dear brethren, only follow your Saviour in the exercise of faith and love; and his glory shall be your glory, his kingdom your kingdom, for ever and ever.]