shall " a way-faring man, though a fool, be left to err therein."
Lastly, What can be compared with it in point of utility ? We deny not but that knowledge of various kinds is replete with benefit to man : but that benefit is bounded by this world, and the present state of things. Not so the knowledge of which we are speaking : that extends to the eternal world : in the knowledge of God and of Christ, are all our hopes centered. By this we are justified: as it is said, " By his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many." By it also we are sanctified : as it is said, " Sanctify them through thy truth : thy word is truth." By it also we shall be exalted to glory ; for it is said, " This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent." What is there then that can be compared with this ? Will earthly knowledge save you ? If you could travel the whole round of science, and grasp in your mind all that ever was comprehended by human intellect, would it pacify a guilty con- science ? Would it take away the sting of death ? Would it enable you to look forward with comfort to the eternal world ? Would it prepare you to stand at the judgment-seat of Christ, and to give up your account with joy ? No ; nothing can do this but the knowledge of God as reconciled to us in the Son of his love : this is the sole property of the Gospel, even of that Gospel which is so neglected and de- spised. If then you would view these things aright, you must study the Gospel, and " count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus vour Lord."
Must we then lay aside our earthly knowledge ? you will ask. No ; but you must get it sanctified by the Spirit of God. The spoils of the Midianites were consecrated to the Lord ; but before they were suf- fered to be brought into his tabernacle, " every thing that would abide the fire, must pass through the fire ; and whatsoever would not abide the fire, must be made to go through the water :" for then only could
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