whether it be in a man of opulence, or in a person of low degree, is equally " idolatry," and will infallibly exclude a man from the kingdom of God. As for all the pretexts that may be urged either for this or for uncleanness, they are but " vain words," that will " deceive you," to your eternal ruin. Look and see what fornication brought upon the whole nation of Israel b: or what coveting did in the case of Achan ; who, amongst two millions of people was singled out by lotc: and be assured, that however secret your sin be, or however sanc- tioned by the habits of those around you, " the wrath of God will, sooner or later, come on all the children of disobedience"
■ Full well I know, how pleasing it is to be told that
we have nothing to fear, and how ready we are to credit such unfounded assertions : but to what purpose will it be to " speak peace to ourselves, when God has said that there is no peace?" I warn you then, beloved, not to listen to any such delusive suggestions, by whomsoever they may be offered : but " let God be true, and every man a liar."]
And let nothing under heaven induce you to com- ply with the solicitations of others, or to imitate their
sins —
[Though you are united in a Christian society, and pro- fess all the doctrines of Christianity, you still are liable to be seduced by the arguments and examples of those around you. But remember, that, if you are partakers with others in their sins, you shall be " partakers also with them in their plagues d." And it will be little consolation to you, in the eternal world, that you have partners in misery : nor will it be any excuse for you, that you have been deceived. God cautions you against deceit, whether it originate in yourselves or others. His word is plain : his warnings are solemn : and if you will not obey his voice, you must reap the fruits of your folly. Unite not, then, with any in a course of sin. Partake not with any, either in following their evil ways, or in giving your sanc- tion to them. Your duty is, to " have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather to reprove theme." If you profess to be children of light, then must you walk worthy of your holy profession, " shining, before all, as lights in the world."]
If, however, you have been drawn aside to sin, then humble yourselves for it without delay, and turn unto your God in newness of life —
b Numb. xxv. 1. with 1 Cor. x. 8. c Josh. vii. 10 — 26.
d Rev. xviii. 4. e ver. 11.