resided'', or rather, to that more glorious temple wherein he dwells invisible to mortal eyes*^.]
That we may be stimulated to care and diligence in these things, let us consider,
II. The importance of erecting such an edifice as will be approved of by God —
This is set forth by the Apostle in very awful and appropriate terms :
1. Our works will all be tried as by fire —
[In that day when God shall judge the world, " he will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and make mani- fest the most secret counsels of our hearts." As the Judaiz- ing teachers of old, or the philosophical reasoners, conceived that they were actuated solely by a regard for truth, while they were in reality instigated by pride and bigotry ; so the contentious disputers about doubtful points of doctrine, or indifferent matters in Church-government, little think " what spirit they are of." But, as fire tries the metals, and discovers the dross that is in them ; so will that fiery trial discover the unworthy mixtures with which our most specious actions were debased. It is to no purpose therefore to deceive ourselves ; for we shall most assuredly be undeceived in that solemn day, when " the fire shall try every man's work, of what sort it is."]
2. The works that are approved will add to our eternal happiness —
[Every grace which we exercise, is pleasing and accept- able to God. " A meek and quiet spirit," and consequently every other holy disposition, " is in the sight of God an orna- ment of great price." It is the mind, which God regards. A contrite sigh, a grateful aspiration, an adoring look, are of more value in his eyes than all the zeal or subtilty which in- genious disputants or pharisaic bigots can exercise. Nor shall a pious thought or desire pass unnoticed or unrewarded.]
3. The works which are disapproved will detract from our felicity —
[It is supposed that we unfeignedly build upon the right foundation ; and that this will secure our acceptance with God. But the degree of our happiness will depend entirely on the superstructure which we raise. We may suffer loss in heaven, even though we should not suffer the loss of heaven. Known deliberate sins will rob us of heaven itself: and mistaken
b 1 Chron. xxix. 2, 7, 8. <= Rev. xxi. 18, 19.
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