good work in your hearts; and be u utterly purposed" that from this moment you will no more offend.'
Glad should we be if all were acting thus agreeably to their profession, and walking thus in the paths of peace. But have the consciences of all approved these acknowledgments ? Have none felt any mis- givings ? Has not conscience whispered to any one ' This is not thy state V If this be the case with any one, let him hearken to the friendly intimation, the faithful remonstrance : for " if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things : but if our heart condemn us not, then, and then only, have we confidence towards God."
Acts xxiv. 16. Herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.
THE Gospel is often represented as unfavourable to morality, but true believers are living monuments of its sanctifying influence. St. Paul was deemed a " fellow not worthy to live upon the earth ;" he was accused of sedition, heresy, and profanenessb, but he distinctly and satisfactorily disproved the allegations0, and boldly affirmed that his principles had quite an opposite effect11 —
We shall endeavour to shew, I. What is that attainment which every true Chris- tian labours for —
a This Analysis of the foregoing Sermon is added, in order that the reader may see how easily a Skeleton may be turned into an en- tire Sermon.
b ver. 5, 6.
c Respecting Sedition, ver. 12. Heresy, ver. 14, 15. Profaneness, in general, ver. 16 ; in the particular that had been specified, ver. 17, 18.
d If kv Toii-u) were translated on this account (as it might be), the connexion between his principles and conduct would be more clearly marked.
o o 2