therefore labour incessantly to form a just estimate of heavenly things, and to have our affections regulated by an enlightened understanding.]
2. In a spiritual perception of the things known —
[Merely speculative knowledge is of little avail : it is only like the light of the moon, which dissipates obscurity indeed, but communicates neither heat nor strength. The knowledge which alone will augment our love, is that which produces suitable impressions on the mind ; it is that which, like the sun-beam, enlivens and invigorates our whole frame. Now there is a great difference, even amongst good men, with respect to their perception of divine truths. There is, if we may use the expression, a spiritual taste, which is acquired and heightened by exercise. As, in reference to the objects of sense, there is an exquisite "judgment" attained by some, so that their eye, their ear, and their palate can discern excellen- cies or defects, where others, with less discriminating organs, perceive nothing particular ; so is there, in reference to spiri- tual things, an exquisite sensibility in some persons, whereby their enjoyment of divine truth is wonderfully enhanced*. Now this is the knowledge which we should aspire after, and in which our love should progressively abound. We should not be satisfied with that speculative knowledge which may be gained from men and books; but should seek that spi- ritual discernment, which nothing but the operation of the Spirit of God upon the soul can produce b. Whatever be the particular objects of our regard, we should get a realizing sense of their excellency, and be duly impressed with their importance.]
These views and impressions the Apostle desired for them, in order to a further end0 :
II. Their moral improvement —
Love, when duly exercised, is the main-spring of all acceptable obedience. When abounding in know- ledge and in all judgment, so as to be suitably affected with every thing, it will improve the whole of our conduct and conversation. It will make us,
1. More judicious —
[We are very apt to be misled by what is specious. Hence many embrace erroneous principles, or rest in delusive experiences, or justify an unbecoming conduct. Even in the
a Heb. v. 14. b i Cor. ii. 9, 10, 12, 14.
c ei£ to CvKijia'Cziv iijuac to. Ziafipovra.