By way of conclusion, we would entreat you to
REFLECT Upon,
1. The folly and danger of self-righteousness —
[For what end did the Apostle take such pains to shew us that the most eminent saints of old were not justified by their works, but to caution us the more strongly against trust- ing in our own works? Let us not imagine this a light matter: on this one point our everlasting happiness depends. If we will renounce all dependence on ourselves, and " submit to Christ's righteousness," we shall be saved : but if we will "go about to establish our own righteousness," either in whole or in part, we must inevitably, and eternally, perish1.]
2. The value and importance of faith —
[The highest commendation imaginable is given to faith, in the words before us. Two things are spoken of it, which should render it very precious in our eyes; it " gives the highest glory to God," and brings the richest benefit to man. Faith glorifies all the perfections of the Deity, in a far higher
! vcr. 12. k Gal. iii. 6—9. ' Rom. ix. 30—02. and x. 3.
i 2
degree than any other grace whatever : and it saves the soul ; which cannot be said of any other grace. Faith is the (in- strumental) cause of our justification: but all other graces are the fruits and effects of justification already imparted to us. Let us seek then to exercise faith, and to be " strong in faith:" and let us be well assured, that the more confidently we rely on the promises of God, the more certainly shall we laugh with holy exultation, and obtain a testimony from God that we were accepted in his sight.]