indeed to only one particular point, the maintaining of communion with heathens in their idolatrous sacri- fices and oblations. This, as he observes, was incon- sistent with their professed allegiance to Christ, and with all hope of participating the blessings of his salvation : and so unquestionable was this truth, that he did not hesitate to appeal to their judgment respecting it.
We are far from saying that all the truths of Chris- tianity are as level with the capacity of men as that which is the subject of the Apostle's appeal : but still we are persuaded, that there is no part of our religion repugnant to reason, nor any part which enlightened reason must not highly approve.
In confirmation of this sentiment we shall endea- vour to shew,
I. That the Gospel approves itself to all who are truly wise.
II. That it is the duty of every man to exercise his judgment in relation to it.
I. That the Gospel approves itself to all who are truly wise —
There is a wisdom to which the Gospel does not approve itself, — I mean "■ the wisdom of this world," as it is called, even that which is both the root and offspring of philosophic pride. Between this wisdom and the Gospel there is as inveterate an opposition as between light and darkness ; the Gospel is regarded by it as foohshness; and itself is no other than foolish- ness in the sight of God. The Apostle tells us, that by this wisdom the world neither knew God, nor could possibly find him out ; that God hath so formed his Gospel as to " destroy the wisdom of the wise, and to bring to nought the understanding of the prudent." Remarkable is that triumphant language of the Apostle, " Where is the wise ? Where is the iscribe ? Where is the disputer of this world ? Hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world ?"
If it be asked. Why this wisdom is so much at variance with the Gospel ? we answer, that men filled