[We are not to be wavering in our minds when we draw- nigh to God. To doubt either his power or his willingness to help us, is to disparage both the Father and the Son : and prayers offered with a doubtful mind will never bring with them an answer of peace*. It is quite a mistaken humility that leads persons to question whether such sinners as they can find mercy; or whether the grace of Christ can be sufficient for them. All such doubts betray an ignorance of Christ, and his Gospel. If he be not the Son of God, equal with the Father, then we may well doubt his ability to help : or if his sacrifice and intercession be not the appointed means of salva- tion for the whole world, then we may ask. Can he save such a guilty wretch as me ? But if all has been ordered of the Father, and the whole work of redemption has been executed by the Son, then must we " not stagger at any of the promises, but be strong in faith, giving glory to God"." And according to our faith, so shall it be done unto us.]^.
P John xvi. 23 — 26. i John xvi. 6. ^ John v. 23.
s John xiv. 12. * Jam. i. 6, 7. " Rom. iv. 20.
^ If this be the subject of a Charity Sermon, the following may be inserted in the place of the last inference.
3. That whilst we derive such comfort from him, we should labour to imitate his example —
[He suffered for us, leaving us an example, that we should " follow his steps." He requires us to " love one another, as he has loved us ;" and, if need be, to " lay down our lives for the brethren." And is there not a call for our sympathy at this time ? (Here set forth the particular occasion and urgency of it.) Let us then shew that we " possess the mind that was in Christ Jesus," and labour to the uttermost to extend to our brethren such aid as shall be suitable and sufficient for them.]
-l'"^ HEBREWS, V. 7—9. [2287.