contrary, most reasonable that you should be reconciled to him, who never rendered any thing to you but good, in return for all the evil you have done against him ? Is it not madness to continue in rebellion against him, who must prevail at last ? And is it not better to bow to the sceptre of his grace, than to be " broken in pieces with his rod of iron?"
What would you reply, if God should entreat you by a voice from heaven? would you still refuse? Know then, that " God himself beseeches you by us ;" and if you continue to pour contempt on this mercy, your " punishment will be sore" indeed.]
Application —
[What account now shall we give to him who sent us? Must we return and say, " Lord, we have spoken to them ; but they will not hear ; we have invited ; but they all begin with one consent to make excuse?" O think with yourselves, how soon "this day of acceptance and salvation" may be passed; and how aggravated will be your condemnation, if you reject these overtures of mercy ! Let not our embassy be unsuccessful ; but be prevailed upon to " seek the Lord while he may be found, and to call upon him while he is near." Remember however that, if you be restored to God's favour, you must also be reconciled to his government : you must not assume a subject's name, and retain a rebel's heart: if you " name the name of Christ, you must depart from all iniquity."]