Having spoken what was necessary to unfold the meaning of the exhortation, we proceed to,
II. Enforce it —
To those who answer the foregoing character we address the exhortation —
1. Consider the object set before you —
His names —
[As " Jesus," Divine Saviour, he is able to save to the uttermost : As " Christ," he was anointed of God for this very purpose. Had he not been appointed of God, or had he been less than God, you might have been afraid to trust in him ; but his names attest his right and ability to save. Think how these words would sound in hell ; and let them be as sweet to you as they would be to the unhappy spirits there.]
His offices — [As the Apostle or Prophet of the Church, he will in- struct all'^ As the High-priest, he will open a way for
us into the holy place' O reflect on these, till your
hearts burn within you with gratitude and love !]
2. Consider more particularly the view given of him in the preceding and following context — His compassion as an High-priest —
[He himself has endured persecution from men, tempta- tion from Satan, desertion from God, &c.™: he will sympa- thize with you under your trials". Let this be a source of comfort to you under every affliction.]
His faithfulness as a Prophet — [He extends his care to all his people": he never suffered the weakest believer to err finally p ; nor will he fail to guide us arighf. Go to him then for teaching in every doubt and every difficulty.]
Those zvho do 7iot answer to the character may reap benefit from the exhortation —
[Ye who are unholy, and strangers to the heavenly calling, consider this description of our blessed Lord. Consider it — with attention, that you may understand it — with faith, that you may have an interest in it — with affection, that you may
k Matt. xi. 29. • Heb. x. 19, 20. ^ Heb. ii. 17, 18.
" Heb. iv. 15. This may be further illustrated by the care of a refiner, whom Christ is said to resemble, Mai. iii. 3. " Heb. iii. 2. p Isai. xxxv. 8.
'i Isai. XXX. 21. Ps. Ixxiii. 24.