A good conscience —
[The conscience of every man has been more or less defiled. Nor could the offerings under the law perfect a man with re- spect to if". But the blood of Jesus will cleanse it from its defilement". And, if we heartily endeavour to keep it void of offence in future, we shall enjoy the testimony of a good conscience". But if we live in the habitual neglect of any duty, or the allowed commission of any sin, we shall have an evil and accusing conscience. It is necessary therefore that our hearts be purged from the guilt of sin by the sprinkling of Christ's blood, and from the love and practice of sin by his Spirit. Without this we can never approach God with comfort or acceptance. We shall stand self-condemned as hypocrites. And every petition we offer will appear a solemn mockery of God. We must therefore have our hearts purified from all habitual and allowed sin. Nor unless we have, can we hope for any answer of peace unto our souls p.]
An holy conversation'* —
[As our inward principle must be pure, so must also our outward practice be. The priests washed their flesh before they went within the vail, to denote the purity which was required of them by God"". Thus must we also be careful to possess that purity, if we would approach him with acceptance. Not that our sanctity of heart and life will procure us favour in his sight. The only grounds of our acceptance have been before stated. But there is a meetness for the enjoying of his benefits. And if we possess not that meetness, in vain shall we expect the benefits themselves.]
Application —
[Some may ask, What shall I do, seeing I possess not these requisites ? Shall I stay away from the throne of grace entirely? We answer. No; if we cannot ask as we ought, we should ask as we can. God will assist us if we endeavour to serve him aright; and will impart to us those holy dis- positions, that shall qualify us for the reception of his richest blessings. Let us then thankfully improve the liberty he has afforded us. Let us see the vail now rent asunder, and behold our God upon his mercy-seat. Behold, his address to every
•" Heb. ix. 9. " Heb. ix. 14. " 2 Cor. i. 12.
P Prov. xxviii. 9. Ps, Ixvi. 18.
1 The last clause of the text might properly begin the next verse ; in which case it must be referred to our baptismal washing, and the solemn engagements consequent upon it.
"" Lev. xvi. 4.
2312.] STEADFASTNESS IN GOD's SERVICE. 337
one of us is, Draw nigh to me, and I will draw nigh to you; cleanse your hands, ye sinners, and puriiy your hearts, ye double-minded ^ In obedience to his command, let us sur- round his throne with fervent importunity. Let us ask for mercy and grace to help us in every time of need'; and so open our mouths wide before him that He may fill and satisfy us with good things". Thus shall we enjoy the sweetest fellowship with him in this world ; and shortly be admitted to his more immediate presence in the world to come.]
s Jam. iv. 8. * Heh. iv. IG. " Ps. Ixxxi. 10.