2. Benevolent in our conduct —
[Compassion and diligence are inseparable attributes of true religion. The real Christian is not, like the barren fig- tree, covered with the leaves of an outward profession, but destitute of fruit. He labours to abound in every good word and work, and to benefit to the utmost the bodies and souls of his fellow-creatures. His heart is " full " of love, and out of the abundance of his heart he both speaks and acts.]
It is within us a living principle, that is,
III. Uniform in its operations —
Its extends,
1. To duties without limitation —
[The grace of God will not admit of " partiality " in our obedience. It will stimulate us to difficult and self-denying duties, as well as to those which are more easy and pleasant ; and will make us as solicitous to do what is right towards strangers or enemies, as towards our own friends or par- tisansb.]
2. To desires without reserve —
[Religion penetrates to the inmost soul, and regulates all our motives and principles of action. The person whose out- ward conduct only is good, is in God's sight no other than a " whited sepulchre." The man whose heart is right with God, will watch against all selfish ends, and endeavour to act with a single eye to the glory of his God.]
Infer —
1. How unjustly is religion condemned in the world !
[Many consider religion as destructive of all personal and social happiness ; but what is there in this representation of religion that deserves such a character ? Let the world call it folly if they will ; but God accounts it " wisdom."]
2. What reason have the most godly to blush and be ashamed !
[We must not estimate our religion by our opinions so much as by our practice. Doubtless we must build on Christ as our only foundation ; but we have no evidence of an union with him any further than we raise upon him this holy super- structure. Alas ! what poor builders have the very best of us been ; and how little progress have we made when we judge by this test!]
b 1 Tim. v. 21.