Lastly. We see from hence how happy is the state of true believers ! The resurrection of Christ, which
is the foundation of all their hopes, is proved beyond a possibility of doubt : the very means taken to con- ceal it are among the most convincing proofs of its reality. On the very same basis, your hopes are founded : he has said, " Because I live, ye shall live also." Think then with yourselves, that at this mo- ment, your faith, so far from being in vain, avails for all the purposes for which it is exercised : it secures your interest in Christ as your Surety, Advocate, and Head ; and brings in an abundance of all spiritual blessings to your soul. Instead of being in your sins, they are put away from you as far as the east is from the west ; nor shall they evermore be remembered against you. God has already said concerning every such soul, as he did concerning Joshua ; " Take away the filthy garments from him : behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment." Further — When you die, you will not perish with the ungodly world, but will go to take possession of a " kingdom." You will have a crown of glory on your head, and a golden harp in your hand : you will be seated on your Saviour's throne ; and shall sing his praises for evermore. Happy soul ! " what manner of love is this wherewith the Father hath loved thee!" Hail, thou that art highly favoured of the Lord ! Rejoice, rejoice, thou servant of the Most High God ! Thy Saviour, pos- sessed of all power in heaven and in earth, watches over thee continually : he gives his angels charge over thee : he gives thee every thing that is for thy good : and though perhaps he deals with thee not exactly as thou mightest wish, he is daily preparing thee for glory, and making thee meet for thine in- heritance. Oh, then, love and serve this risen Saviour; and set your affections on things above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God. Let it be your en- deavour to keep your conversation in heaven : and while you are living upon the Saviour's fulness, oh, strive to live to the glory of his name. Thus will you adorn your holy profession ; and when he shall come again to receive you to himself, he will welcome