more, therefore, may man account it the only object worthy of his pursuit.]
2. That it is an object for which we all, according to our ability, should labour —
[The advancement of the Redeemer's kingdom is not the work of ministers only, but of the people also. It can scarcely be credited, how much an efficient ministry is aided by the co-operation of private Christians, in all the different works and labours of love. Many will listen to them, who would regard the admonition of pastors as a mere official ceremony, or an impertinent intrusion. Indeed, it is not possible for ministers to do every thing : even a Moses required seventy elders to assist him : and, at this day, it is only by the united exertions of many, that the work of God in general, and that of missions in particular, can be carried forward. Nor let it be imagined that the poor are incapable of affording aid to the common cause : for they, if they cannot assist materially either by intellectual efforts or pecuniary contributions, may, by their prayers for the Divine blessing, effect more than the whole world combined could by their own personal exertions.]
3. That the success of it should be to us a source of the sublimest joy —
[With what raised expectations did the Church of Antioch meet together; and with what joy did they hear that " God had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles ! " Methinks the whole assembly lost, for the time, all thought of their own personal welfare, being swallowed up with the delightful con- templation of the welfare of others. Surely, with one heart and one voice they glorified God for the mercy he had vouch- safed to a sinful and idolatrous world. And should not a similar feeling pervade us Gentiles, in relation to the Jews, if there be any awakening amongst them ? Truly, if there be, as in Ezekiel's vision, any stir among " the dry bones," whether they be those of Jews or Gentiles, or of persons bearing the Christian name, it should fill our souls with gratitude, and our lips with praise ]
Let us now improve this subject, 1. In a way of inquiry — [What is the state of God's work amongst you ? " The door of faith," as you well know, " has been long opened to you." Have you entered in ? or, are you yet but on the threshold, or perhaps yet standing afar off? Think with your- selves : have you truly come to Christ, and believed in Christ
as the only Saviour of your souls? And, supposing you
to have entered the vestibule of God's temple, have you