Thus we trust that the Gospel, however despised by an un- godly world, is justly entitled to the appellation given it in our text, " The wisdom of God in a mystery."]
See, then, from hence,
1. What is the office of a minister —
[It is to proclaim " the glorious Gospel of the blessed God." We are to " speak the wisdom of God in a mystery." We are appointed for this very end, even " as stewards of the mysteries of God." We are not to be bringing forth notions out of our own minds ; but simply to declare what God has done for the salvation of mankind, and how a guilty world may be reconciled to him. This is the ministry of reconciliation, committed unto us; and in the execution of our office, we beseech you. Be ye reconciled to God ]
2. What is the duty of those to whom he ministers —
[Is that which he brings to their ears " a mystery ?" It becomes them to receive it into their hearts, with docility, submission, and gratitude. We expect little children to learn from us, without questioning the solidity of our judgment, or the truth of our assertions. That he cannot altogether com- prehend the lessons we teach him, is no reason why we do not expect his assent to them. On the contrary, it is by their first receiving our testimony with implicit faith, that they afterwards come to see both the truth and excellence of our instructions. And it is in this way that we also must acquire
the knowledge of the Gospel of Christ But we must
also submit to the plan proposed by God, and seek remission
altogether in the way pointed out by him And finally,
we must feel our obligations to the Most High God, who has done such wonders for the salvation of our souls. Whilst on earth, we must, to a certain degree, be penetrated with the zeal and love which we shall feel in heaven ; and both here and in eternity " glorify him with our bodies and our spirits, which are his."]