epistles which were addressed to Christians only, he contented himself with merely sending to them " greeting8." There were indeed many truly pious persons who were suffering for the truth's sake ; and these he sought to comfort and encourage. The foregoing part of this chapter seems addressed to the former ; the text and following verses to the latter. We cannot conceive that the oppressive and mur- derous conduct which he lays to the charge of some, could admit of their being numbered with the Church of God. But their cruelties rendered the path of the true Christians who were among them far more difficult : and therefore, after warning those who were so grossly violating every principle of common morality, he encourages the suffering Christians to persevere in a patient discharge of their duty, and in an assured expectation of recompence at the coming of their Lord.
We shall consider the injunction which he gives them in a two-fold view ;
I. In reference to the terms by which it is ex- pressed—
These are strong and energetic. Twice he says, " Be patient ;" that is, bear with all long-suffering the trials that are come upon you : and then he adds, " Stablish your hearts ;" let them be so firmly fixed, that nothing may ever shake them.
Now from these expressions we gain a very con- siderable insight into Christianity : we see, that,
1. It exposes us to heavy trials —
[No man could profess Christianity at its first establish- ment, but at the peril of his life : thousands and myriads being called to seal the truth with their blood. If the same perse- cutions be not experienced at this day, let us not imagine that they have therefore ceased : for it is as true at this day as it was in the apostolic age, that " all who will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." And every man now, as well as then, must be prepared to lay down his life for Christ, if he will be acknowledged as " a disciple indeed."
a Jam. i. 1.