instruction. Even the epistles are supposed to relate only to the particular Churches to which they were written : and thus the use of the Scriptures with respect to ourselves is wholly superseded. But we are abundantly guarded against this fatal error by the application which the inspired writers themselves make of numerous passages, which at first sight appear to be as remote from us as any in the Bible. Let us select a few, that will place this matter in its true light. First, take an historical fact. A conten- tion arose in Abraham's family. His child by Hagar mocked and insulted the child which he had by Sarah. Sarah took part with her son ; and desired that Hagar, with her son Ishmael, should be cast out, and no longer be suffered to dwell in Abraham's house. Now what could the children's quarrels, and the mother's revenge, have to do with usf The Apostle tells us, that the casting out of the bond- woman and her son was intended to shew, that they who were yet in bondage to the law, should not have any part in the inheritance of those who were made free by the Gospel h. Next, take an occasional decla- ration. Abraham had exercised faith in God ; and God declared, that his faith should be counted to him for righteousness. In what respect, it may be asked, can this apply to us? We answer with St. Paul, that this declaration was recorded, not for Abraham's sake alone, but for ours ; to inform us, that the way of justification before God was, not by works, but by faith only'. Next, take a personal promise. God, who had commisioned Joshua to destroy the Canaanites, told him that he would not leave him, nor forsake him in this arduous attempt. Would any one con- ceive, that that promise had any respect to us ? Yet it had ; and, in dependence upon it, every believer may boldly say, " The Lord is my helper ; I will not fear what man can do unto mek." Lastly, take as insignificant an ordinance as any that is to be found
11 Compare Gen. xxi. 10, 12. with Gal. iv. 30. 1 Compare Gen. xv. 6. with Rom. iv. 3, 23, 24. k Compare Josh. i. 5. with Ileb. xiii. 5, 6.