I am aware that there has been an aspect of seve- rity about this part of my subject; of severity, which I would gladly have avoided, if it had been com patible with that fidelity which became me. But I speak to an audience who can distinguish between the harsh anathemas of man, and the authoritative declarations of Almighty God. If, indeed, I have put m Rom. ix. 31, 32. n Rom. iii. 20.
a harsher sense upon God's word than it manifestly imports, I will be contented that all the blame, which such an inconsiderate proceeding would deserve, shall attach to me. But, if I have spoken only what God himself has authorized and enjoined, and what will assuredly be found true at the last, then let me hope, that the salutary warning will be kindly re- ceived ; and that you will be the better prepared for our next subject, wherein a balm will be applied to every wound, and a refuge opened for every one that would flee from the wrath to come. To that I look forward, as to a subject far more congenial with my feelings than the terrors of the law. To bring for- ward the glad tidings of salvation, and to proclaim mercy through the sufferings of our incarnate God, is, I trust, the joy and delight of my soul. From the first moment that ever a dispensation was committed to me to preach the Gospel, " I have determined to know nothing in my ministrations but Jesus Christ, and him crucified." O that in my next I may be enabled to commend Him to you, as a suitable and all-sufficient Saviour ! And if, through what has been already spoken, any of you be pricked in your hearts, and be stirred up to cry, " What shall we do to be saved?" may the answer, that shall be given you in my next, be accompanied with a blessing from on high, and prove " the power of God unto salvation to every one that hears it0!"
0 Rom. i. 16.