[These are days of extraordinary toleration and candour. We cannot indeed say that " the offence of the cross has ceased :" for it never can cease, as long as the ungodly con- stitute the great majority of the world. But persecution, except in private circles, is but little known. The flames of martyrdom are no longer kindled amongst us, as in the days of old. Let us, then, make a due improvement of this great mercy, for the more abundant edification of our own souls, and for a more active advancement of Christ's kingdom in the world "^.J
2. Let us, however, stand prepared for other days —
[No one can tell how soon the face of things may be changed. If Popery were to gain an ascendant again, it would, in all probability, bring with it all its attendant horrors. But even in private life we may be called to make severe sacrifices, and to suffer the loss of all our prospects upon earth. But let us remember, that Heaven will richly repay us for all that we may either lose or suffer : and if only we " receive at last the promise" of eternal life, we shall never have reason to regret the " patience" we exercised, and the " confidence" we maintained.]
^ See Acts ix. 31.
Heb. X. 38, 39. Now the just shall live hy faith : hut if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them tvho draw back 2mto perdition ; hut of them that believe to the saving of the soul.
TRIALS are the portion of all the people of God: times and circumstances may occasion a considerable difference as to the measure in which individual be- lievers may be called to endure them : but to all, without exception, it must still be said, as well as to the Hebrews of old, *' Ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye may receive the promise." To all may the same consolation also be administered ; namely, that our Lord and Saviour will speedily come to the relief of his afflicted people; and that, if only we believe in him we shall assuredly be saved.