point of difference that arose, namely, Whether the believing Gentiles should be required to submit to circumcision or not; and even that was discussed, not for the satisfaction of any of the Apostles, but only of some of the less-enlightened converts. And the agreement which there was in doctrine, was rendered still more manifest by the wonderful unity which was displayed in the life and conversation of the whole Church. There were indeed spots and blemishes in many ; but these were reproved by the authorised teachers of religion, and served to illustrate more clearly the proper efficacy of the Gospel p. Twice does our Lord suggest, that this union of his people would confirm the truth of his mission q. And certain it is that the same effects are produced by it at this time. Where shall we look for such an union of sentiment, of affection, and of conduct, as is to be found in the Church of Christ ? Hence believers are marked as a peculiar people ; and the very peculiarity which pervades the Church of God, makes an impression on the hearts of thousands, who, if they could in an instant attain to the measure of peace and holiness which they see in the true believer, would willingly sacrifice all that they have in the world for it : and though, from the inveteracy of their corrup- tions, they are determined to go on in sin, they are constrained to acknowledge, that the Gospel of Christ is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation.]
2. The credit of the Church—
[God the Father " loveth his people, even as he loveth his only dear Sonr." But how is it to be known that he loves them? Who can look into their hearts, and see those mani- festations which he makes of himself there, as he does not unto the world? When " he sheddeth abroad his love there," who can discern it, but the persons themselves ? or, as Solomon expresses it, who can " intermeddle with their joy?" But it is to be discerned by the effects it produces on their lives, just as the irradiated countenance of Moses attested the intercourse he had held with God. Accordingly, where the piety of any person is of an exalted kind, it carries with it a conviction to the minds of others ; it makes religion itself appear honourable, and induces many to say, " We will go with you ; for we per- ceive that God is with you of a truth."]
3. The welfare of the world at large —
[The world in general " hate the light, and will not come to it, lest their deeds should be reproved." But Christians, when truly exemplary, are living witnesses for God : they
p I Cor. xi. 19. i Compare ver. 23. with the text.
r See ver. 23.