PRACTICAL WORKS; P fy Ky o. This Rx abs | 70 7 7 RALPH ER'SK SKING, 40 "2 SERMONS and por us 4

IN TEN LARGE vorn h oe rue. =

AND OTHER

Of the Late REVEREND and LEARNED

Minister of the Gospel i in DUNFERMLINE.

In Tex din orb Oer ανο * — ..x |

* To which i. prefixed,

with an ELEOIAc Poems and large Cox TENA TS. ; * a | : | a

By these he, being dad, yet speaketh. Heb. xi. 4: N fo =. V Oo. J.

Entered in Statieners- all, 0 Pa G 1 8 G 0 W. Printed by WIL LIAN SMITH

Sold by W, SMITH and]. Brot, booksellers, Saltmercat-

MDCCLXAXVIL.

& The following Recommendations of Mr. Exs-

_ Elxg's Writings, by Dr. Bradbury and Mr. Hervey,

Author's Life, here given, is quite different, and much

fuller than the former one; and the Elegiac Poem,

subjoined thereto, was not printed with the former edition of his works.

ee | CHARACTER 0 F THE AUTHOR and his WRITINGS,

T is not the Intention of the Editors of the present Edition of the Rev. Mr. RALPH ERSKIxE's Practical Works, in ten volumes octavo, to attempt passing any fulsome encomiums on the worthy Author, whose praise is already in the churches, or to launch out into any prolix commendation of his elaborate and valuable writings, which are so universally known, read, and esteemed; but to refer the reader, for his satisfaction relative to these, to what is advanced in the following short Account of his Life and Writings: We shall only here observe, That as he was eminently pious from his youth, had always a conversation becoming the gospel, was endued with every suitable qualification for the ministry, possessed of very popular talents, made the distinguishing doctrines of Christianity the chief subjects of his pulpit-themes, and singularly zealous for the purity of gospel-truth, it is not at all surprising, that he was greatly beloved, much followed by all true Christians, and his writings

eagerly read by the religious and devout. of every denomination.

The Sermons and Pots are already so well known and deservedly admired, both at home and abroad, that it would be superfluous to pass any encomiums on them. Let it suffice to say, in the words of that

eminent divine, the late Rev. Dr. Bzxaozuxy, in his

preface to a collection of Mess. Ezgxezer and RAL Exsx1Ne's Sermons, printed at London in 1738. The Sermons, faith he, have no need of my re ·

vi CHARACTER of the Aur Rox.

% commendation: the reader will find} in them a faith -

ful adherence to the design of the gospel, a clear

defence of those doctrines that are the pillar and

„ground of truth, a large compass of thought, a

„ {trong force of argument, and à happy flow of

„ words, which are both judicious and familiar: and

< they have been greatly blessed to the edification of

„ many, especially the poor of the flock.” -

The fame Dr. Bradbury, speaking concerning the

pocttent compositious of our Author, observes, That

as poetry has often no more in it than great swel-

| < ling words of vanity, distorted images, and monstrous

& _ < allusions; fo it is a pleasure to see the things of

64 to be esteemed, for the sweetness of the verse, the

disposition of the subjects, the elegance of the com-

© position, and, above all, for that which animates

* the whole, the favour of divine and experimental

"| The words of the late justly celebrated and pious

ö Aft Uanver are very significant, and truly expressive of

the high esteem he had for Mr. Exzx1xz's Writings.

Was I to read, fays that Judicious and elegant

6 writer, in order to resine my taste, or improve my

stile; I would prefer Bishop Atterbury s sermons,

“% Dr. Bate's works, or Mr. Seed's discourses: But,

was I to read with a fingle view to the edification

* of my heart, in true faith, solid comfort, and

evangelical holiness; I would have recourse to

* Mr. Eks EINE, and take his volumes for my As

my companion, and my own familiar friend.” a+ th

14 Harvey 's works, i in fol, p * and Theron and Asp. 1 16. 6 SOME

IN emitting the writings of great men to the public, 1 it hath been usual to give some account of their Author, that the reader may, in. a short compass of reading, learn some of the principal lines of their character. Our Author is already so well known in the churches of Christ, both at home and abroad *, by his excellent and elaborate productions, that saying any thing of him might have been entirely fuperceded: and had it not been, that his writings may fall into the hands of some, at a distance, and in after- ages, who are not, and cannot be so well acquainted with him as the present, it would have been superfluous to have said any thing concerning him. e e | 1

Tux Rev. Mr. RALPH ERSKINE was honourably descended of very respectable ancestors; his father, the Rev. Mr. HENRY ERS²KINE, being one of the thirtythree children of RaLen ERSKINE ky Shielfield, a {A mily of considerable. repute and standing in the county of Merse, and originally descended from the antient house of Max. Our Author, and his brother, the Rev. Mr. EBentzer ERSKINE, late Minister of the

gospel at Stirling, were two of the children of the said

*

, | 4. * The greatest part of our Author's works were at first printed in single scrmons and small tracts; and well relislied; numbers of these have gone abroad, and mct with a kind reception: yea. sach regard bath the -public ppt upon them, that several of them have 22 a great many impressions; aud even some of them translated into other languages: and we have even seen 2 few of them printed in Dutch, —Iu the year sixty-four and fixty-five they were” collected together, and printed, in a most elegant manner, in two large vo- Jumes in folio, in which there was ipterspersed a great many manuscript Sermons. This handsome Octavo Edition is printed from the elegant folio one, with confiderable amendments, | | c T ly: of

vill

*

The LITE of the AUTHOR.

Of the gospel at Cornwal, afterwards at Chirnside &; a man eminent in his day, and justly distingwshed for his piety, and firm attachment to Presbyterian principles: For his stedfast adherence to which, he was subjected to many considerable hardships in the latter part of the last century, during the persecuting period of Charles II. and James VII f. | | 1

The Author, of the following sermons, was born at Monilaws, in the county of Northumberland, on Sabbath the 15th of March, 168 5, at three o'clock in the afternoon; and baptized at Chirnside on the 5th of April, said year, by the Reverend Mr. William Violand. —He gave pretty early proofs of a great genius and fine fancy; and several instances of a pious disposition and a solid way of reflecting on matters. On this account

he was, by his parents, early destined for the holy ministry, who resolved to give him a regular and liberal education, in order office. When he had acquired a competent measure of Grammar, and other introductory parts of education, he went to the university of Edinburgh, to complete his studies; where he went through the ordinary courses of philosophy and divinity with success; and made a considerable progress in all the different branches of useful literature: for, he soon became a fine Grecian, an excellent Logician, and an accomplished - Philofopher. But after having acquired such a competent measure of knowledge, in these yarious branches of erudition, he gave himself

up to the study of theology, his darling and beloved topic; in which he made great progress, as his ons therein do abundantly evidence.”

Having experienced the grace of God himself, he thought it his duty to give himself up to the great work of the ministry, that he might be a E infruwent of bringing others to know these things which he found and experienced to be of the utmost importance. He was abundantly sensible this was a work of great labour

producti-

* Cormosl is in the shire of Northumberland; Cbirnside lies about fire miles from Berwick upon Tweed, in the Scotch fide. , + 5ce the continuation of Calamy's life of Baxter, p 681. | 4

to qualify him for'that important

The LIE f the AUT Ho. ix

and diligence; and therefore gave himself up to a course of unwearied study. He was never more delighted than when he could apply himself to the increase of valuable knowledge, without being interrupted: this desire after improvement continued to the last;- and he was never seemingly better, than when he thus enjoyed himself, 17 8 1 The ordinary course of philosophica and theological

studies being gone through, at the college of Edinburgh, with success; he was, in the providence of God, called forth to appear in a public character; and being well reported of, by all who knew him,” for a conversation becoming the gospel, he was accordingly'taken upon trials by the Presbytery of Dunfermline: and having finished the usual pieces of trial assigned him, to the entire satisfaction of the presbytery, he was by them licensed to preach, as a probationer, the everlasting gospel, on the 8th of June, 1709. In which capacity he exercised the talents which the Lord had graciously conferred on him, within the bounds of the said Presbytery, both in vacancies and settled congregration, to the great satisfaction of his hearers, both ministers and people, as his certificate from that Presbytery, dated April 4th; 1711. expresly bears. —In this station of life he did not long remain: Providence soon opened a door for _— and he got an unanimous call, from the parishioners Dunfermline, on the 1st of May 1711. to exercise his ministerial talents and abilities amongst them; which call was approven of by the Presbytery, on the day following,

as regularly proceeded in. He went through the usual -

pieces of trial, for ordination, preseribed by the Presby= tery, with approbation: and thereupon they set him apart to the office of the holy ministry, in the collegiate charge of Dunfermline, on August yth, 1711. For several years, prior to fis appearing in a public character, he was a close student in the various branches of literature, and had made confiderable progress therein. Few were endowed with a greater 2 judgment, and a penetrating disposition of mind; this, joined with a lively invention, and a tenacidus memory enabled him to make great researches after truth, and on f 2 ceeasily

various duties incumbent on the Minister and the Chrion his mind, as is evident from his quotting these, with

im which he had a very pleasant and edifying gift. He — , by turns, with his colleague, every Sabbath and

easily to investigate what would have been very difficult to others, not possessed of such a depth of thought and clear way of reasoning, These shining qualities, which were the gifts of nature, were conspicuous in him : and being enabled, by divine grace, to improve them aright, he made a more considerable figure, in practising the

stian, than many others of his cotemporaries.

Though his natural and acquired abilities justly

cured him the title of a learned man; yet he endeavoured to make all his learning subservient to his theological studies, which is more than many can boast of who are much extolled for their literature. For this purpose he carefully and diligently searched the scriptures, - had much pleasure in them, retained a vast deal of them upfacility, to prove every point of doctrine he was difcoursing on: He likewise read over, with attention of

mind, many bodies of divinity, compared these with

the oracles of truth, on which the compillers of them

founded them; ard. had ever at hand the best commentators on the Bible, to-see who most reached the mind of the Holy Spirit. This being the case, it is little wonder he made such proficiency in his researches after truth, and that his PRaeTiCa, WrrTINGs have been fo much esteemed and admired. "

nder the character of a minister of the gospel, having now a paltoral relation to a particular te

| ock, in the church universal, be determined not to know any thing

save Fesus Christ and bim — — He was inflant in season and out ms all the parts of his ministerial * imself wholly thereunto; exborting f.

the people under his trast, fram house to house, in the way of family-visitation; examining them more publicly upon the principles of our holy religion; visiting the sick, when called; and preaching the everlasting gospel,

day, through the year; and afterwards, when he bad none, tor several years before his death, he urf.

day. | He delivered few extemporary productions. His sermons were generally the fruit of diligent study, and assiduous application. For the most part he wrote alt and kept very close by his notes in the delivery, except when the Lord was pleased 'to carry in upon his mitid; in time of preaching, some pat and apposite enlargements, whereof he had no previous study, and to which he nevertheless chearfully gave way, as coming from HIM, who has the tongne of the learned; who knows how to speak a word in season to him that is weary* ; and who says, It shall be given you the same hour what ye shall — ; for it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your ather that speaketh in you f. He was blessed with a rich £ and fertile invention, as appears in the agreeable and entertaining diversity, wherewith his heads of doctrine are every where adorned. The poetical genius, with which he was happily endowed, contributed not a little to the embellishment of his discourses, with a variety of pertinent epithets and striking metaphors. * BYS His gift of preaching was both instructing and searching. Few outshone him in the nervous and convincing” manner, whereby he confirmed the truth of the doctfines he insisted on; and fewer still in the warm and pathetic address, in which he enforced the practice of them. Ha 3 65. He peculiarly excelled in the ample and free offers of Christ he made to his hearers; and the captivating and alluring methods he used, for gaining their compliance,

or their receiving and resting on Christ alone for their ng salvation, as thus freely and fully exhibited- unto them he in the gospel. On all which accounts he was justly ec stecmed, and much followed, as one of the most popuhe lar and edifying preachers of his day. During his el, time, facramental solemnities, at Dunfermline, were He much crouded; numbers of people, from several parts nd of the kingdom, resorting unto them; and the Lord 5 was pleased to countenanee some” of these eommunions, at- ; 1 - L 10303 10 — G

X11 The LITE of the Au THOR:

with signal evidences of his gracious presence and influence, to the sweet and comfortable experience of many. 99 22 " "<4 $5234 t 4

It = from what our Author has published, that he was an able, close, and clear reasoner; and could, when he set himself to it, exhaust a subject. His stile was of a medium, between the lofty and combast, being natural, unaffected, manly, and scriptural; and free from meanness and Jowness; though indeed he studied much to adapt himself to, the capacity of the auditory. There centered in him gravity, without dulness; and smartness, without forthiness; never choosing, in his public appearances, to come to his hearers, with the intising words 4 men's wisdom; but to preach the truths of the everlasting gospel in their genuine purity, and naked simplicity. He was possest of excellent talents for the pulpit; he had a pleasant voice, free of any disagreeable tone and false pathos: and every unprejudised person will

readily grant, who have any relish for substantial matter, and that doctrine which. is according to godliness, delivered in an unaffected manner, that he was an agreeable, as well as a faithful, judicious, evangelical preacher. drier fe terevtec; | 85 As to his ministrations in general, it will be readily acknowledged, that he was an able minister of the New

Testament. He made choice of the most interesting

subjects to preach upon; and it was his peculiar delight to preach Christ crucified, and to exalt the doctrine of free

grace, through his imputed righteousness. He could

rightly divide the word of truth; and {kilfully parcel out to every one their portion in due season. He was none

© of those flat, dull, leazy, insipid preachers; but delivered his sermons, with pathetic zeal, fervour, and affection. He was a son of thunder, when he made known

the terrors of the Lord to hypocrites, false and carnal, professors: and had the tongue of the learned to speak.

a word of consolation to those who were weary and heavy laden; inviting them to trust in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and to stay themselves on him as the God their salvation. 705 |

His ministry was very trying and search

ing; be had a peculiar

FLY 1 P

©

The LIE of the AUT Hon. "ili

a peculiar way, of addressing himself to the conscience; could easily delineate the soul, and represent the sinner in his native colours. He. was a closs and hard student to his old-age, took a great deal of pains in the composition of his sermons, and digested them well. When he preached occasianally in other places, abroad from his fixed charge, his ministrations were very acceptable, and often left a deep. impression on the minds of the hearers. He was a wise, prudent, learned, and accomplished minister; well understood, constantly inculcated, and strenuously defended the truth as it is in Jesus. In short, he had the testimony of all who had a true relish for the glorious and sublime doctrines of the blessed Re- A No 9466 r dude

It will easily appear to the judicious and experienced reader, in perusing his writings, that he had as dexterous a faculty in ransacking the plagues of the heart, and | describing the diversified circumstances of serious and

exercised souls, as if they bad fully communicated their several, doubts and cases unto him; while, in the mean time, he was only unfolding the inward” exprience of his own soul, what he himself felt of the workings of unbelief, and of the powerful influence of the Holy Spirit, in opposition thereunto; which could not but quadrate or agree, with the operations of the self-same Spirit of God in others; for, as in water, face answereth to face, so doth the heart of man to man x. No trial or temip+? tation can befal any of the saints, but something similiar thereunto has happened to others before them, as the! apostle asserts, when he says, There hath no temptation taken you, but such as is common # m. This eminent servant of Jesus Christ, being exercised: to Pee from his youth, became by the grace of God, a scribe instructed unto the kingdom of heaven, whom our Lord compares to an housholder, which bringeth forth: out of his treasure, things new and old t. Old invariable truths, but new illustrations of them; old experiences, the same with other saints, before, but new-observatianso

and improvements upon them: so that, with abundante

xiv Pe LIE of the Auron. r of propriety, it may be said, that there are few petplexing doubts, or intricate cases, which the saints have, at any time, been exercised with, that ate not in some one or other of his sermons, very judiciously folved, and distinctly elucidated, or cleared up. e ee His conversation was holy and blamless, savoury arid refreshing, warm and affectionate, spiritual and edifying. In all things he acted as one that had experienced the grace of God bringing falvation. Many alive are witnesses of his pious conversation, and shining deportment. Every one, who had opportunity to mark his actions, can attest, that he lived up to the truths he preached. He defired and affected to be of the party of such as spoke well of, and were for advancing and defending the declarative glory of his exalted Lord;

| pleading for the sufficiency and freedom of divine = _ ; for debasing the creature, and exalting holi-

He was favoured, by his blessed Master, with uncommon degrees of the manifestations of the love of God, and enjoyed the highest meafures of assurance. He was much honoured by the Most High, in his public ministrations, 'in answering the doubts, and solving the perplexing cases of the truly exercised soul; instances whereof his works abound with. He conversed much with those exercised to godliness; and by this means came to be well acquainted with the various exercifes of the Lord's people: and he had a particular regard for all such, and took great pleasure in being serviceable to them, however mean their circumstances in the world were. The rich in faith were to him the excellent ones in the earth, in whom he had peculiar pleasure and delight. This, together with the feeling sense he had of these things upon his own soul, justly procured him the character, and induced many to term him, the experimental preacher. - n e e eee b ee Fe ever had a mighty zeal for the declarative glory of God; à great concern for the Redeemer's interest; and a becoming esteem for the peculiar doctrines of Christianity; he was deeply affected with what injured * first; sensibly toucht with any thing that Pn 0 gere

„ FDD err e *

renn

The LIE of the Auro. xv

gered the next; and soon alarmed with whatever en. croachments were made on the last. This natively led him, at different periods of his life- time, to be engaged in several controversies, both theological and political: In all which, he conducted the matter with that solidi of judgment peculiar to himsclf, and with a strength 6

argument becoming his great mind, and acquit hims

selt in such a masterly manner, as not = to filence his opponents, but procure himself the character of a strong reasoner, an able disputant, and a valiant and heroic champion for the truth. bf” bie e 4 We find our Author — making several publie appearances of this nature. In the year 1720. when the General Assembly injured many gospel truths, by their fifth act condemning a book, intitled, The Marrow of Modern Divinity, he appeared undauntedly on the fide of those who made a seafonable and commendable stand far these precious truths which were condemned and buried by the Assembly's act. And he not only turned the edge of several of his sermons, preached about that time, against this act, but composed” a partieular discourse on that subject, wherein he asserted and defended the peculiar doctrines condemned thereby; and clearly red up marches between the law and the gospel kl. Our Author did not satisfy himself with his, but also joined himself with several other brethren, h gave in to the general assembly 192r,' a Representation; etting forth the pernicious nature of said act, conde: {cending on the particular doctrines wounded by it; which, indeed, had no other effect upon the Assembly, but to induce them to corroborate their act 1720, by another in the year 1722. tene. 1462 io When Mr. Simson, professor of divinity in the univerfity of Glasgow, came to be sisted, in a second process before the Assembly, anno 1727, for having vented and ad several propositions repugnant to the supreme deity of the eternal Son of God, our Author was mightily alarmed thereat, and so took part with those

* Several of these passages may be sen by consulting Vol. I. p. 438.

Vol. II. p. 304, 30, 3995-—The difcourse composed on this subject, may be who

seen Vol II. p. 245+ intitled, Law-death,” Gespel-life.

to reclaim them, to no purpose, and all expectations

some others) to the four Brethren, who had, by this

that sermon, intitled, The Law of God's Hoase, inserted in Vol. V.

xvi The LIVE of the AUTHOR.

who made a laudable opposition to that ' pernicious scheme of doctrine; and also testified against it in several of his discourses, preached and published at that time &. . ie 11 : 6 A315 Y 1 1 bi 1 About the year 1732, when the Church of Scotland became infected with many gross errors and pernicious doctrines, together with her arbitrary conduct, which

ve birth to that memorable event, the SzCes810N + our Author did not at first formally adhere to these ministers t who were honoured to be the happy instruments of it; yet he joined with those who favoured their testimony, was of the number of the protesters against any sentence that was passed against them, and kept communion with them. He did not, for some years after the Secession came to be stated, relinquisi communion with the present judicatories: but after all means were used

failing of their setting about reformation- work, he at last declined them, and formally joined himself, (with

aud faithfulness, in testifying against their hackslidings; oppressiog the heritage of God imposing sinful terms of communion; and inflicting eensures upon ministers for testifying against these cnurses.— The reader may see a more full account of the commencement of the Secession, by consulting some notes on

The ministers who first constituted the Secession were, the Rev. Mr, Esxx. Fxsx1Ne, brother to our Author, with Messrs. Wit.sox, Moxcr1ite, and

The LIF E of the AUTHOR: Xii

into his hand, in adorable providence, to preach the gospel to, many oppressed congregations, to diffuse his wholesome doctrine more extensively, to bear his Master's message to greater numbers, and spread the fame of the blessed Redeemer among mankind sinners; and brought relief to many poisoned with unwholesome doctrine, Who were entertained with little or nothing but harangues on the principles of morality. en e ny 122 In the beginning of the year 1744, a very extraordinary commotion took place at Cambuslang, and some other parts in the welt of Scotland, occasioned by Mr. Whitefield's personal ministrations amongst them, and perusing his journals: This affair was looked upon by many, and attested by not a few, as a work of God, and a remarkable dotun- pouring of the Spirit, The genuine nature of this work was, however, by many suspected d they assigned their reasons for doing so, in several printed papers published at that time k. Among other reasons for questioning this work, this was one, That it had a direct tendency to lead off persons from build. ing their salvation of Christ in the word, to build on something wrought in themselves; and to form an ima- ginary idea f Christ, as Man, in the mind; affirm- < ing it belonged to, and a great article of saving faith. Concerning the above proposition, of affirming an imaginary idea of Christ, as Max, was helpful to the faith of. his being Gop-Max, and an essential article of saving faith, our Author wrote an elaborate treatise, intitled, Fly No FANCY; or, à Treatise of Mental Images a book singularly valuable, for the clear and perspicuous manner in which he hath handled and established this 1 portant point; every way worthy of our Author, = reflected the greatest honour upon him; in regard it hath given the greatest display of his abilities, both as 4 divine and philosopher, and how capable he was to exhaust any point, when he set himself to it, even in an abstract way of reasoning: a book that effectually sin SS ESE Rh red rata in ron

* Whoever inclines to see these, may consult Mr.-Fisher's REVIEW of a Preface to a Narrative ot the extraordinary Work at Kilsyth,- &c,—-Sce al our Author's Appendix to Fraud and Falshood di scoveteed; and his Sermon, inutled, The true Christ no new Chrilt, in Vol. VII. | |

xviii The LITE of the AUTHOR, lenced all his opponents; and stands to this day unanswered. , The Associate Body, with whom our Author had now connected himself, were become very numerous, both in ministers and people; and were spreading their influence to a considerable distance: the greatest harmony and unanimity subsisted amongst them, until about the year 1746. when an unhappy debate at last came in among them, concerning the /awfulness of a religious clause in some burgess oaths; which, in the ifsue, terminated in a rent and separation of that respectable body, to the no small grief of the truly religiously dispoled. Our Author was of the number of those who maintained the LAWFPULNESs of faid religious clause; and accordingly wrote several tracts in defence thereof K. In the whole of this dispute, he managed the affair with such strength argument, and force of reasoning, as at once both puzzled and galled his adversaries: and finding themfelves unable to answer his arguments, at last pretend - ed to draw forth the sword of Church discipline against him. This he entirely despised, as being improperly inflicted; and used only as a stratagem to strengthen their party. —80 much may serve as a few short hints concerning the public transactions in which our Author was engaged. PO f | c Ws cannot dismiss this account of our Author, without taking notice of another particular concerning him, which constitutes a very material branch of his character. He was not only deservedly esteemed, as a judicious Divine; but also much respected as a good Por: And he hath favoured the world with several excellent productions of that nature, which have all met with a very favourable reception. His poetical talent was employed chiefly on divine subjects; he had no relish and taste for any other. In his younger years, at his leisure

Such as, The lawsulness of the religizus clause of some Burgess oaths afserted :—Fancy no faith ; or, a seasonable warning 10 Seceders, against the finsul constitution of some brethren, &c :—Obsers vations on the conduct of the separating brethren, in two parts ;— Fancy ftill no faith ;—with several other pampblets,

hours, he composed a piece, which is now intitled, GosPxsL-SONNETS; or, Spiritual Songs, in six parts. The usefulness of this poetical compend of the revealed principles of our holy religion, for promoting the life of faith, comfort, and holiness, will be experienced, it is hoped, by many of the saints of God, to the latest posterity. — This piece was so well relished, that it hath undergone a multitude of impressions; and the demand for it is as great as ever. de 3

About the year 1738, he emitted into the world his poetical paraphrase upon the whole book of the Song of SOLOMON; Which indeed is an evangelical comment, done in a strain adapted to the New-Teltament dispensation, upon that allegorical or figurative part of holy writ.— This performance has likewise been very accept - able, and undergone a variety of editions. N

By emitting the above essays, and some smaller poems into the world, our Author's abilities, as a poet, came to be established: And he accordingly had several recommendations of Synod given him, to employ some of his vacant hours in turning all the scripture songs into common metre, of the same kind with the psalms of David. Having complied with his recommendation, he published, in the year 1750, as a specimen of the whole, an intire version of the book of the LAMENTATIONs, with the scripture text on the margin, that the reader might see how closs he kept to the original. To this piece he subjoined a two-fold version. of David's lat. words; with a paraphrase on the ui gospel promise and great gospel nystery.— Some time after this he published a short version of the SonG oF SoLouoN, adapted to the psalm tunes, along with a new edition of his large paraphrase thereof. To this piece he subjoined two short poems; the first on the ten plagues of Egypt; and the next on the ten commandments.— JoB's Hy MNs made their next appearance in the world, consisting of an hundred short poems, on as many select passages in that book. This piece was prepared for the press by the Author's own hand; but not published till after his decease.— The rest of the ScrIyTURE Songs, in three parts, completed our Author's undertaking. They were trans. NN B 2 cribed

xx The LIE of the AUTHOR,

cribed from his short-hand characters, and revised by

his son, the Rev. Mr. Henry Erskine, late minister at Falkirk, and published — after his death.

Besides these poetical pieces above-mentioned, there were a variety of other small poems written, and fome of them published by our Author; such as, Smoaking Jpiritualized. Scripture authorities for subjefting io, and praying for, civil magistrates. With several funeral poems, elegies, epithets, &c. upon some great and celebrated men *. Those who have any appetite for the substantial and solid food of the word, to the nourishment of their precious and immortal souls, and do not want to be starved and, decoyed with empty notions and fanciful flights, will readily meet with suitable and agreeable entertainment in the poetical performances of this reverend Author, which are re-published at the end of his sermons. This faithful and laborious servant of Jesus Christ, laboured successfully in the work of the ministry, and continued publickly useful in his Master's work, till within a few days of his departure; for he preached i in his awn pulpit on Sabbath the 29th of October 1752. As he always had a peculiar regard for the — doctrines of the everlasting gospel; and as his pious sou burnt fervently with a vehement love to our blefsed Re. deemer: fo it would seem, providence fo ordered the matter, that his last public exercises here below, were suitable to, and preparatory for the celestial ones. In the latter part of his life, when not engaged in his ordinary ministerial work, he was employed in composing his SCRIPTURE SONGs:. And may it not with propriety be said, that this was an agreeable way eng tr * highly

suitable, as introductory to /inging the song of wrt ys |

* We are certain our Author wrote an elegiac nom to the memory of Mr, James Cuthbert; with elegies on Messrs. Alexander Hamilton, Patrick Phlenderlicth, George Mair, James Bathgate, and William Monerief; with an inscription on the grave- stone of Mr. Wilson and Yrovost Brown at Perth, and Mr. Balantine at Sanquhar; and epitaphs on Messrs. Boston at Etrick, and Hunter at Gateshall, 2 He wrote also two other poems, via. The forced marriage of Queen scorA, on occasion of the union, MSS and Dunfermlipe's address to King, George I, on his accession to the throne 3; ptiuted.

+ It would appcar he was some way senfible, and had some presages of his Nee diflolution : for, the very my he had fivished these So GS, we

Ein the

- The LIE of the AuTnoR - xxt scem to be his appending his seal to the whole Chriftian scheme, and giving his last testimony to a religious course ; drawn from these words, Wisdom's ways are ways of pleasantness ; and all her paths are peace : and his firm expectations of a blessed immortality; from these words, 1 know that my Redeemer liveth, &c. cs.

When he had finished his Master's public work in the world, and been so suitably prepared for the heavenly mansions, he was seized, in the end of the foresaid month, viz. October 17 50, with a nervous fever, (wherein, nevertheless he enjoyed the exercise of his judgment and senses,) which lasted only for a few days, and at last was the happy messenger of freeing him from the incumbrances of an imbodied state, and leading him to the world of Spirits, and the regions of eternal bliss and felicity; for, on the Fight day of the fever, he fell asleep in the Lord, being Monday Nov. 6th, 1752. in the 68th year of his age, after labouring unweariedly and successfully in the work of the ministry, among his flock in Dunfermline, for the space of forty- two years t, and went to take possession of the kingdom prepared for him; where he now resides in the country of everlasting happiness, beholding, in righteousness, the face of his glorious and exalted Redeemer, whose visits, while on the body, made him glad, whose battles he had unweariedly fought, whose cause he had zealoussy defended, whose truths he had strenuously maintained, whose gospel he had faithfully published, and to whom he had kept his allegiance, as long as he had his abode in these tents of separation. He now, in the company of angels and archangels, and in concert with the company of saints made perfect, sings the high praises of the mighty Saviour, whose love many times shed abroad in his foul

are told, he said to his spouse, (who had been sometimes before acquainting him, that it was uneasy to her to be so much deprived of his company, by his closs application to study;) he had got his public work, he intended for the press, finished; and that she might now expect a little more of bis company _ sometime, but it would not be long till she should be deprived of it altogehen Ds | | „ nts LOC. rb ag

+ He way buried in the ehureh- yard of Dunfermline, on-Thursday the vt of the foresaid month. Ilis corpse was attended to the place of interment by an inconceivable number of spectators, deeply and justly regreting the sos of - so valuable a midister, - n E X 2

xxii The LIE of the AUTHOR; while here, in his militant state, filled him with heavenly

When on his death-bed, company was forbid him, by order of his physicians ; and therefore few had the benefit of his last advices, and dying conversation: fuch who enjoyed it, were N entertained, and sensibl

refreshed. He himself complained, that so few ITS bim at that time; which, indeed, is the reason why so few of his dying sentiments can be transmitted to posterity. | Our worthy Author affords room for large commendations, and his character was of the highest kind: want of abilities permits not to do jultice to so great a man; and attempting to do it, may shew a deficiency of talents necessary lor jving an exact portrait of him, at full length. On the one hand, as we entirely despise and abhor that meanness, of giving flattering titles to any man; so, on the other, we are glad, that, on this subject, there is as little occasion for them, as we want inclination to use them. — If Mr. ERSKINE is considered as to his natural endowments, he possessed many fine qualities; he had a sweet temper, a clear head, a rich invention, a lively imagination, and a great memory.— If he is viewed as to his acquired abilities; he was well acquainted with all the useful branches of literature, being an able icholar, an accurate logician, and a penetrating philosopher. —Itf he is considered as to his ice; he was a great and judicious divine, a pious and evangelical preacher, an accurate critic, a prosound reasoner, and an able casuist. In short, he was not only a learned man, but an affectionate and familiar friend, a social companion, a devout Christian, and a burning and shining light: he burned with, fervent zeal for the truths of the gospel, and was soon alarmed at any attempt to darken, fully, or pervert them; and was a fhining of piety, holiness, and integrity: for, from what we

no of him, we have reason to conclude, he kept his

allegiance to his glorious Master, Christ Jesus, pled his

cause with, intrepidity, and honourably finished his Christian course. 0 ho F 4 Raf r By his death, the church of Chrift lost e. 2 lily | eroic

heroic champion for the truth, and a bold contender for the faith, once delivered to the saints. — The body he was last conne&ed with, have been deprived of an useful member, and a shining ornament to their cause. The congregation he laboured among, lost an able and faithful minister, 'a laborious and successful wrestler, and a painful and diligent instructor.— His family and relatives, lost a true friend, an affectionate husband, a tenderhearted parent, and a striking pattern of virtue. —His acquaintances an intimates, and endearing brother, a so cial companion, and an engaging friend. 5

Oux Author was twice married. His first marriage was with MarcareT Dewar, a daughter of the laird. of Lafsodie* ; who lived with him about sixteen years: In which time she bore ten children; five sons and five daughters f. —His second marriage was with Marcaret S1MsoN, a daughter of Mr. Simson, writer to the signet in Edinburgh t, who bore him four sons, and survived himself some few years. Three of his sons of the first marriage, were ministers in the Association, viz. The Rev. Messrs. HENRY, Jonn, and James; the first was ordained minister at Falkirk, the second at Leflie, and' the third at Stirling. All of them died in the prime of their age, when they had given the world just ground to conceive high expectations of their usefulness in the Church. One of the daughters of the first marriage wag married to Mr. John Newlands, merchant in Glasgow, the editor of his practical works. His only child now in life, is RoBERT, a son of the second marriage, a merchant, sometime residing in London. 5

! ; This marriage commenced, July 15th, 1514. | | + On the death of his first wife, which took place on Nov. 22d, 1739, he compose the two following verses. * is

The law brought forth her precepts ten, And then dissolv'd in grace:

This vine as many boughs, and then In glory took her place.

Her dying breath, triumphantly, Did that sweet anthem sing, |

Thanks be to God for vitory; © O death! where is thy sting?

His second marriage took place, February 24th, 1712.

from

xxiv The LIE of the AUTHOR,

From the account already given of our Author, the reader will, no doubt, think we should now proceed to give some account of his religious deportment; and their expectations on this head, perhaps, may run very high. We are sorry, truly sorry, that we find ourselves unable to gratify our readers in this particular; in regard our Author left no written memoirs. of the religious part of his life: True, indeed, he left a diary behind him, from which something of this kind was expected; but, upon perusing it, it was found to contain only some domestic incidents, and providential occurrences; the publication of which would serve no valuable end. No question, had the experiences of such a singular man

been left upon record, they would have been of great

service, and highly acceptable to the truly devout Christian: For he was a man who. poslessed not only a very extraordinary degree of the most valuable natural gifts and endowments, such as chearfulness, , good-nature, modesty, and gratitude, uniting in him; but remarkable for genuine piety, a heavenly disposition of mind, and well acquainted with vital. religion and practical godliness: yea, in him centered all the ornaments of the. minister, and amiable qualities of the Chriitian, without the least affectation, or smallest appearance of vanity. He was a shining instance of the truth and amiableness of Christianity, and an examplary pattern of

spiritual mindedness and sincere devotion, —But, we imagine, from the short hints already given of him, and. a careful perusal of his practical writings, the reader will be at no great loss to figure, out to himself what the attainments and experiences of such a worthy person must have been; and easily conclude that certainly they were very remarkablyx. abr?

Before we finish this account of our Author, it will probably be expected we should say something concerning his SERMoxs, and other PRACTICAL WRITI Nds. These works will speak for themselves. And as the most of them have long ago appeared in the world in single tracts; and of late collected into two large volumes in folio, and elegantly printed; so they have pl

The LITE of the AUTHOR. xxv

ready had their usefulness and praise in the church of Christ: And for us to attempt giving any recommendation to them, would be highly unbecoming so great a man, and offering a real indignity to his worthy memory.—Those of them which have been taken from manuscripts, since his death, it is hoped, will be as acceptable as those formerly published in this lite-time; as the subjects are of equal importance, the same evangelical spirit breathes through them, and the same soul-nourishing food to be = in them.--Without flattery it may be said, that the whole of his doctrine was according to godliness; that he took pleasure to exhibite the Redeemer in the glory and riches of his grace; made choice of the woll apposite subjects for instructing the ignorant, strengthening the weak, comforting the dejected, and for winning souls to the blessed sesus.— His writings, after properly informing the judgment in the point of doctrine he made choice of to illustrate, contain the most ample and free offers of Christ; the most warm and pathetic invitations to embrace him; and the most winning persuasives to influence the heart to a chearful

compliance. In the whole of his sermons, the reader will perceive a fervent zeal for the honour and cause of Christ, a steady boldness in defending his truths, and a firm attachment to the doctrine, worship, discipline, and government of the church of Scotland. But as the judicious and intelligent readers will obtain the justest sentiments, and form the best character of him from his writings, we shall therefore recommend a careful perusal of these; sincerely wishing them all manner of spiritual instruction and edification from such a valuable treasure: for by these, though he be now dead, he yet

speaketh.

GLiascow August 12th, 1763.

To the Memory of the late

—

Me ems *

Plangito, Melpomene / ARESKINI funera, clarum Cujus ab Ra bol Ho dere nomen habes.

Scotia mqsta dole: ARESKINO nemo super tes. Scote / is Britannicis contigit altus honos.

Zia tamen gaude/ ARFSKINUS carmine vivit; Operibus Ra bol. ho fama perennis erit. | dnterea, ARESKINI! anime pars altera notre, Te Caledoniim flens Elegia gemit.

ON did the muse * impatient wait to see, Some lofty poet describe his pedigree :

Waiting in vain some able pen to scan, The matchless virtues of this peerless man; Presum'd, at last, some rude portrait to draw Of him, who once could paint without a flaw. 4

Such boldness, sure, does much indulgence claim, Since losty flow rs should decorate his name, And brilliant strokes aloud extol his fame.

- Scor14! what ground hast thou to drop a tear? Thou hast not lost a small, but first-rate scer! A seer whose eyes could view celestial bliss, And search the wonders in that valt abyss. ERsKINE ! whose fame to distant climes is known; _ Christ's real friend, and Truth's bold champion. His works divine, to future ages shall, g Speak forth his real excellence to all; 5 And sound the praises of Immanuel.

This elegiac poem was not composed till the year 17656, being about thirteen years after Mr, Erskine's death. O Scotish |

-

An ELE:G1ac Porn. xxvii

O Scotish church! how much mayst thou regret

Thy faithful pastor, and watchman complete !

Whose mind could search heav'n's myst'ries most pro- Investigate her truths to all around, [found, Dunfermline too, with sobbing breasts can tell,

How great a priest has fallen in Israel!

A loss which heav'n made them long feel the smart, Because his message had not gain'd their heart &.

The Associate tribe may well lament the case,

That such a herald great did yield his place.

He of that number was in high repute; | And to defend their cause was never mute; And could each prattling scribe with case refute.

This is not all; each friend of God can tell,

How Zion trembled when this pillar fell.

To all he seem'd a blazing star most bright;

Nay, he was a burning and a shining light.

In private life his character's most complete; Gifts natural, and parts acquir'd, unite. Piety and goodness form'd the early plan,

Of future greatness, in this worthy man. 15

His early years with gravity were bless'd,

Which made him soon admir'd and much caress'd. A stock of lit'rature adorn'd his name;

His parts, like trumpets great, anounc'd his fame. His courteous carriage shew'd his gen*rous mind; Fond without fraud, and without flatt'ry kind.“ His pray*rs and praises were of divine stamp;

His walk and practice, all a shining lamp.

In converse heav'nly, and behaviour mild; 4 His words not vain, nor yet his lips defil'd; - 5 |

His soul sublime, his conscience undefil'd; | Sweetness of temper, friendship most sincere,

Of access easy, and deportment fair, 5 Were his endowments; though to others rare.

Grace and good - nature stor'd his humble mind.

In him the social virtues all conjoin'd ; x

They were about eight years vacant after his death, before they had again a settled pastor, _ F | C 2 His

His soul refin'd beyond the common race,

& Was cultivate by nature, art, and grace.

He brightly shone, even in his private sphere Fre he possest the ministerial chair.”

Were we to view him in his public station, His match we scarce could find in all the nation. God's word's the sacred source from which doth flow, Knowledge divine to mortals here below: This word he search'd with diligence and care; Gave to each soul its portion and its share. For, to divide aright God's word of truth, He was instructed early in his youth. His insight into truth's abyss was great; And could explain beyond the common rate. * Seraphic principles and graces bright, In him conspired to display their might. In public work he taught with solemn awe, The pieceful gospel and the fiery law. Heav'n form'd his mind great gospel-truths to trace, His mouth to sound the filver trump of grace; To speak the grandeur of the Saviour God; To blaze his righteousness divine abroad. His view of every sacred line was bright; Each sermon was a lamp of gospel-light. The holy theme was trim'd with holy bait; Each word was masly, and each sentence great. His language shew'd a judgment molt profound, A deph too great for common lines to sound. His frame was still divine, his words exact; Saints heard tlc voice which did their hearts attract. An holy humble course of life he steer'd, That all might see the doctrine which they heard. His-presence grave did rev*rence great command, And crave profound respect from every hand. His very look could vanity reclaim, His countenance put levity to shame.” A disputant most bold for truth appear'd; And 'gainst all errors conqu'ring trophies rear'd: His words gave all antagonists a wound,

& Which did them soon convince, or foon confound, His

Sod Go ff Bed TC fot add ] . eel od. RS SD

to the Memory of the AUTHOR. xxix

His public spirit was of such a pitch, That few in zeal for God were found so rich.”

Hark! you who remind him, surely will allow, That grace triumphant fat upon his brow. _ Won't you confess his mind was much refin'd, Beyond the common mass of human kind? The lovely graces in his bossom found, Diffus'd ambrofial odours all around. His lofty mind, ne'er drench'd in earthly things, With case could mount to heav'n, with out- stretch'd Spy out the glory of the realms. of light, wings: Unfold the grandeur unto mortal sight. | His pious soul, fram'd to surmount the skies, With winning charms did stqop to vulgar eyes; Diffuse that knowledge giv'n him from above, To all mankind,, with fervency and love. Heav'n still indulgent to his pious mind, Display'd her glorious rays purely refin'd. The amazing wonders shew'n to him from thence, He could, with ease, to others soon dispense. Thus heav'n and earth in him, did joyful meet; Nature and grace their lovely charms unite.

His works now extent*, happily display, How well he understood the gospel way. Th' attentive reader and judicious mind, In ev'ry page may a rich treasure find. These volumes elegant contain the scheme Of gospel doctrine; his beloved theme. Christ is the theme, whose robe of righteousness, He publish'd, as the faints adorning dress.— To form just sentiments of this great man, "Tis proper carefully his works we scan. There we will find both law and gospel taught; The first to rouze, the last with bliss is fraught. He study'd first the sinner's case to shew; And then presents the balsam to his view.

* Alluding to that beautiful edition of bis Practical Works, in

two volumes folio, printed annis 1764, 17 65.

From

From Sinai's mount he sounds a loud alarm; And next poor souls with gospel-tidings charm. He could the saints. perplexities well trace,

And in all {traits afford them great solace.

Souls exercis'd concerning fin or grace,

May in his works find what will sute their case. * There he propounds and solves each case he heard; To saints a mighty casuist appear'd.

© A skilful counseller in each dark case ;

A hearty sympathizer in distress.

Was ready {till at hand, without request,

To ferve the sick, and succour the distrest.

His doctrine ev'ry gloomy shade dispell'd ;

His exhortations more and more excell'd.

This ministerial grace to him was given,

To leave on many hearts a seal of heaven.”

Death! thou devourer of the human race!

Must such a champion great to thee give place! May't thee suffice some lesser light to quell, Than strike the pillars of our Israel? Must ERSKIxE too! that man of great renown, Be foil'd by thee, and to the dust brought down? Must such a light, that blaz'd fo far abroad, Be made to yield to thy superior nod! Must fuch a Christian herald too give place, So well acquainted both with law and grace? Divinely taught in all the truths of God, And did with freedom publish them abroad? Yes, yes! He must!— He's gone!/—FErftine's no more! Grim death hath snatch'd him to the distant shore!— These hands, elated oft to heav'n in purity, | All filent in the tomb now stretch'd doth ly.— Is't possible for our rude quill to tell, How Scotland shook when this great pillar fell? © Heav'n sure design'd by such a dreadful blow,

No personal, but public overthrow. Lo! now his death has hid the fulgent light, And wrapt us in the shades of gloomy night! —

Is Exguns dead! No, sure: the man of God still Possesses heav'n, in glory still survives. © Flies

The bliss and glory he proclaim'd around, Both now concentre to compose his crown. Immortaliz'd, he shines above the saey; Regal'd with heav'nly cheer must sumptously. The blessed Jesus in those regions high,

He views, not vail'd ; but wen pm re Eternal blessedness he reaps in store ; // With heav'nly pleasures cherish'd evermore With endless wealth, and righteousness divine,

A glorious crown, most brilliantly. to shine, | He now enjoys, with rabes molt pure and fine: Yea, Gop himself, with fulness all- complete, Compose that happiness to him most sweet. . Delightful portion! from all harm secure, Refresh'd with rivers chrystaline and pure. Such soul-delights to him shall ever last; These joys for which he did so strangly thirst, .

MUCH fam'd on earth, renoun'd for piety; A midst bright seraphs now sings cheartully,

S acred thine anthems yield much pleasure here * 14> mY

TT hese songs of thine do truly charm the ear &. E ach line thou wrotst does admiration raise; R ouse up the soul to true seraphic praise.

R eligiously thy life below was spent : ,

Amazing pleasures now thy. soul content.

Long didst thou labour in the church below, Pointing out Christ, the Lamb who saves from wo, H eav'n's blefsedness on sinners to bestow.

EAsklxx the great! whose pen spread far abroad,

Redeeming love; the sole device of God.

S ubstantial themes thy thoughts did much pursue; K ept pure the truth, espous'd but by a few. „ of heart, of soul serene

N o friend to vice, no cloke to the profane :

E mploy*d thy talents to reclaim the vain.

* Alluding to his poetical pieces.

to the Memory of the AUTHOR. ILL

Is this the Man whom Heav'n design'd, With honours full to load?

With what enliv'ned souls should we Adore and serve our God?

And if we would those blessings share, Which makes the saints rejoice; All vice abstain, all virtue love, And make this Goa" our choice.

Let us for ever bless the 1 name Of this exalted King, That any of the human tribe

Heav'n's anthems high do sing.

GLAscow, April

The Sword of Justice awakened against God's Fellow, 2 5

Z EC H. xiii. 7. Awake, O Sword, against my Shepherd and against the man that 1s my fellow, saith the Lord

of hosts.

Aster a brief introduction, clear analization, and succin@ explieation of the words, the following general topics of diseourse are treated of, viz.

1. The character of the person againit whom the gr doth awake, enquired into, 29

2. The nature and quality of this sword opened up. 44

3. The manner how this sword did awake, and the import of it, 52

4. The special hand Jehovah had in calling this sword to w—_

ainst this glorious person evinced, 5. Th he reasons of the doctrine adduced, why the Lord of boite 8 the sword of justice to awake against his Shepherd, 56

6. The application of the subject in sundry interences, 64 (1.) The nature of the sacrament opened, 83 2.) Who stand debarred from it, ibid. Te ) Who are invited to it, 89 (4. ) In what manner believers should come to it, 96

The Rent Vail of the Temple; or, Access to the Holy of Holies by the death of Christ, 104

MAT. xxvii. 15. And, behold the vail of the temple was rent in twain, from the top to the bottom.

The words being analized and explained, and their. proper signification being ascertained, the following general heads of method

are illustrated, viz. 1. What that vail is that interposed between God and us enquired

into, 108

2. How the death of Christ hath rent that vail, 110

3. In what manner the vail is rent, 113

4. For what end the vail is rent, narrated, 114

5. Inferences deduced for application, 120

xxxiy THE CONTENTS.

. The best Match; or, the incomparable Marriage between the Creator and the creature, 145

ISA. liv. 5. Thy Maker is thy Husband.

The words being viewed in their connexion and scope, and wrapt up in a doctrinal proposition, the following general topics are illustrated, viz. ,

1. That there is a marriage-relation betwixt Christ and believers,

2. The nature of this marriage opened up, 149

3. Reasons assigned why Christ comes under such a relation, 156

4. Application of the whole, in sundry uses, 157

- een.

Christ the People's Covenant, 168

The connexion of the words being traced, viewed jn their scope,

divided, explained, and summed up in a compendious propofition, the following general heads of method are prosecuted, viz.

1. Some remarks offered concerning the covenant in general, 173

2. How Chrilt is the covenant, and in what respects he bears that

3. For what benefit he is fo; and thus shew that he is the covenant

4. By whose authority he is so; and here his divine ordination, and

being given of God for that end, are spoken of, 191

5. Some reusons of the doctrine offered, why he is given to be a

covenant, and why a covenant of the people, 199

6. Inferences are deduced for the application of the subject, 202

The World's Verdict of Christ and his Followers; or,

the truly devout ridiculed and reproached by the

Profane, | F FIN 249

Is &. viii. 18. Behold, I and the children whom the Lord

hath given me, are for figns and wonders in Israel; from

tne Lord of Hosts, which duwelleth in mount Zion.

After a copious introduction, in which the scope! of the prophet, both in the preceding and subsequent context; is taken notice of, the proper sense of the words ascertained, an analization and

explication essayed, and a doctrinal proposition laid down, the tollowing genzral topics are handled, viz,

*

—

some remarks offered for the explication of the text, 254

> Some scripture passages adduced for the confirmation of 2

3. Some marks of reproach enquired into, that used to be cast upon Christ and his followers, 463

4. The reasons assigned, why Christ and his followers are held for

- signs and for wonders in Israel, © / 270

5. Inferences deduced for the application of the subjet, 274

The Vanity of Earthly Things, and Worldly Enjoyments, 290

vanity of vanities, all is vanity.

After the Author had pointed out the sum of the discourse, given an account of the penman, an analytical sexplication of the words, and had observed a doctrinal proposition from them, the following topics of discourse are undertaken, | N

1. To consider what it is in the world that is so vain and empty, 2 See

2. Enquire what is imported in its being vain, and vanity itself, 301

3. Some arguments adduced to prove that all is vain and empty, 304

4. Some reasons assigned why it is so, 306

5. The application of the subject in several uses, 308

S E R M ON vm. XVI. Self · conceit incident to a Multitude of Professors; or, the Imaginary pure Generation fouad not washed from their Pollution, ‚ 319 PRO v. xxx. 12. There is a generation that are pure in

their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their fil.

The words being briefly explained, produce three doctrinal propositions. The Fiasr is, That fin is a pollution and defilement. _

1 chis observation, the following heads of method are pro--

1. To consider what the scripture saith about the pollution of fin, 322

2. To compare the pollution and gilt of fin together for clearing the

difference, and evidencing the greatness of the desilement, 3323

3- To point out the nature and qualities of this pollution, 324

4- To shew whence this pollution comes, and how it is derived, 326

5. To make application of the subject, | | 327

*

The Second doctrine is, That purity is an excellent thing and of obselute necessity to denominate a true saint, a true Christian, And from this proposition the following general heads of method are prosecuted, viz. P |

1. The nature of this purity, opened up, 335

2. Some of the qualities of it, mentioned, 337

3. The necessity thereof, enquired into, 342

4. The excellency of this purity, pointed out, 345

5. The application of the whole subject essayed, 351

(1.) The difference between justification and sanctification, ibid,

Their 3 pointed out, 368

2.) The evils of impurity pointed out, 354

3.) The evidences of it condescended on, 356

(4-) Some kinds of it specified, 360

_ (5+) Witnesses adduced to prove the great want of purity, 365 (6.) The impure generation delineated, | 372 (7.) Evidences of purity condescended 'on, 380, 417 . (8.) The misery of these who are impure pointed out, 411 | (9+) Motives adduced to excite to purity, 423 1.0.) Directions offered how to attain it, 433

The Tr1zp doctrine is, That selseconceit is incident to a multitude.

of professors, In the illustration of which propolition, the tollowing general heads of method are handled, viz,

1. The truth of the doctrine cleared from scripture and example. 441

2. The nature of self-conceit, a little opened, 443

3. The grounds, causes, and springs of it, enquired into, 448

4+ The evil of it pointed out, both in respect of the sinfulness and

danger of it, 453 5. Inferences deduced for the application of the whole, 457

' Non-conformiry to the World injoined; or, the Evil and Danger of Symbolizing with the Wicked, opened, 476 ROM. Xiu. 2. Be not conformed to this world.

The connexion, scope, and explication of the words being discussed,

and a doctrinal observation laid down, the following heads of

method are proposed, F

1. To prove and clear the truth of the dotrine, _

2. To enquire what it is in, the world we are not to be Gere ro, 495

3. To point out what this disconformity to the world imports, 484

4. To assign the reasons why we ar: not to be conformed to the world, 485

5. The application of the subject in several uses, 495

—

1 Sunn;

Zu cm. xiil. 7. , ns Awake, O sord, against my Shepherd, and again/t the man that is my Fellow, saith the Lord of hosts.

TJ © text, Sirs, is a very wonderful one, as

ever a poor mortal man preached upon;. for in it there is a cloud; a black cloud, a cloud of divine wrath and' vengeance, a bloody cloud, the cloud of Christ's bloody passion which we are to celebrate the memorials of this day; but, like the cloud that led Israel in the wilderness, though it had a black side towards Christ, yet it has a bright and light fide towards all the Israel of God; for this cloud of blood distills in a sweet shower of blessings unto. poor sinners: there is a light in this cloud wherein we may lee God, in Christ, reconciling the world io himself. This verse presents us with a clear prediction of the sufferings of Christ; and the disposition” of his difciples thereupon 3 Smite the Shepherd, and the sheep all be scattered; and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones: Which our Lord expresly applies to himself, and his disciples, Mat. xxvi. 31. Mark xiv. 27. So that we need not stand to enquire, of whom the

+ This was an Action- sermon, preached immediately before the celebration of the Lords supper at Dunfermline, July zd. 1720.; and hath now undergone three impressions.

prophet here, or rather, of whom God here speaks; for, the words of our text are the words of God the Father, giving orders and commission to the sword of his justice, to awake against his Son, when he had undertaken to become our Surety. More particularly, Jo the words you may notice these three things.

1. A solemn call and summons given to God's vengeance, or vindictive justice, to rendezvous its forces, and march forth in. battle array, in all circumstances of terror; Awake, O sword.

2. The party against whom this dreadful battle is

proclaimed, this terrible sword is brandished; must

it not be against sinners? nay, but the sinner's Surety:

' against my Shepherd, and against the man that is my

Fellow: not against the sheep, but the Shepherd; not against a Shepherd simply, but against my Shepherd: not against mankind, but a man; not against a man simply, a mere man, but the Man that is my Fellow; „ ee | 3. By whose orders, or at whose in/tance this summons to the bloody battle is given; why, it is the Lord of hosts that says it: it is he that gives the commission, and orders the sword to be drawn. | Now, the summons is very awful, Awake, O fword, against him: if he will be a Surety, he must be a facrifice; if he will be a facrifice, he must be lain;

for, without shedding of blood, there is no remission. It is not a charge to a rod to correct him, but to a sword

to slay him; for, Messiab, the Prince, must be cut off,

though not for himself, Dan. ix. 26. It is not the sword of 'war to which he gives this charge, that he may die in the bed of honour; but the fword of justice, that he may die as a criminal upon an ignominious tree. This sword must awake against him; it must not rest, cannot be quiet nor fatined, till it be drunk

in his heart's blood. It is not called upon to awake

and fright him, but to awake and /mite him. Not

with a lazy, drowsy blow, but an awakened one; even a horrible, terrible blow. T1

SRM. IJ. qgain, God's FELLOW. 27 The party against whom the sword is called to awake

is very glorious ; the description of him here is very

magnificent; Awake against my Shepherd, and against the man that is my Fellaw: described in his office, my Shepherd; in his person, God-man, my Fellow. Men thurst him through as a foolish shepherd, - and God thursts him through as the good Shepherd, as his own Shepherd, the Shepherd of his own flock, that he might purchase the flock of God with his own blood. As Mediator, he is God's Shepherd, who undertook to feed the flock, and to lay down his lite for his sheep: and against the man that is my Fellow; or, the man my Fellow; the man who is God as well as man, who thought it no robbery to be equal with Gad.

Finally, The Party giving these orders to incensed justice to awake against him is as wonderful; the Lord of hots; that Jehovah that has all the hosts of heaven, earth, and hell at his call: the Lord of hosts;/ that is, Jehovah, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, one God, essentially considered, giving a commission to infinite justice to awake against the second Person of the Godhead, considered as Surety and Mediator, God-man.

Now, from the words thus shortly copened, we might observe many doctrines, but I confine myself to this one, namely; er

OB8ER. That by fpecial orders from Febovab, the great God of hosts, the man Christ, his Shepherd and Fellow, did fall a sacrifice tu the awakened sword of infinite Justice. + Awake, O sword. ES LOS AMES

When nothing among the creatures could be found to deliver the soul of the sinner, from going down to the pit, God himself found a ransom; be found an atonement, Job xxx1u1. 24. by setting. forth Christ; to be the propitiation, through faith in his blood, to declare his righteo 77 ,—that he might be just, and the justifier 4 him that be TT

lieveth in Fesus, Rom. iii. 25, 26. We tul creatures, both ministers and people, should, all have fallen a sacrifice to the fword of God's wrath and vengeance for ever, becaufe of our fins: but behold - Ts | he

he finds a ransom; he sets forth Christ to be the propitiation. Whenever he is set forth, the sword falls upon him, and awakes against him who was the Bn herd, that the sheep might escape.

1 might here premise many uscful particulars pre- | supposed in this doctrine, namely, That it supposes a covenant of works broken, and so justice inraged against men: A cavenant of redemption made ; a counsel of peace between Jehovah and Christ, for man's relief: and, which I reckon much the sane with the former, a covenant of grace establisbed in Christ ; he engaging to tulfil the condition of the covenant of works, which we bad broken; to obey the law, which we had transgressed; to satisfy the justice, which we had offended; to bear the wrath, which we had incurred; whereupon the sword of the Lord awakes against bim, and all the squadrons of enraged fury march forth against him, with infinite horror and terror: Awake, O feord, against my Shepherd. But omitting all that might be {upposed, and presupposed to this J Srine, I shall endeavour to confine myself as closely as possible to the several parts of the text and doctrine, by 9 it in the following method; namely, |

I. To enquire into the character of the person agains whom this sword does awake.

II. The nature and quality of this sword that did awake againft him.

III. How this sword did awake against bind; by ' shewing what may be imported in this expression, Aale, O scoord,

IV. What Fan hand the Lord Jebovab, the Lord of bite, had in ordering or calling of this word to awake against this glorious 4. Big V. The reasons of the doctrine, why the Lord of

hosts ordered the fword of justice to awake against his Shepherd, and the man that is his Fellow.

VI. Draw some inferences. for the application. of

the whole, 1 in a Iuitabicnct to the work of the

fulness of the Godhead bodily, Col. ii. 9. There are three

I. Whois this that the sword of justice must awake against? The character of the perfan' is very great and glorious, in the words of our text, My Shepherd, the man that is my Fellow; that is, in short, Godman Mediator; for, being here described in his person and office; I shall touch a little at both in the following order. | | 1 1. His divine nature, as God's Fellow. 2. His human nature, the man that is my Fellow. z. The conjunction of both these in one person, The man that is my Fellow. 4. His mediatorial office, my Shepherd. 1 NK u. Raum | 1/2, Consider this account we have of his divine nature; MY FELLOW, * saith the Lord of hosts. Let Arians and Socinians blaspheme this wonderful person, here is an article of our creed, that Christ is God's Fellow, God's equal, Who being in the form God, thought it no robbery to be equal with God: and therefore he himself says, John x. 30. I and my Father are one. But here consider, 1. Wherein he is God's Fellow: and, 2. Why, as our Redeemer, it behoved him to be God's Fellow. © | | tf ap 1, Wherein, or in what refped is he God's Fellow? ] answer, He is God's Fellow, not as he is Mediator, taking upon him the form of a servant, and becoming the Father's servant in the work of our redemption; but he is God's Fellow in these six respectss. (I.) He is God's Fellow in point of nature and efsence; Christ is God essentially, as well as the Fither, and the Holy Ghost, though personally distin from both; for, neither the Father nor the Holy Ghost were incarnate, or took on our nature, but Christ the second person of the glorious Trinity: who, though personally distin, yet is essentially one with the Father an Spirit, John i. 1. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the word was God: And it is sure there is but one God, Deut. vi. 4. Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is ons Lord; one IRHOVAH. 1 Cor. viii 4. In Christ our Redeemer deoells all the

that

the Holy Ghoft, and these three are one, 1 John v. 2.

and in the penult verse of that chapter, We know that the Son of God is came, and has given us an under/tanding to. know him that is true; and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Fesus Christ: this is the true God, and eternal life. 9485 | ( 2.) He is God's Fellow in point of property; even in all his essential properties, which is much the same with the former. Is God omnipotent? fo is Christ; he is the wonderfid counsellor, the mighty God. Is God omnipresent? so is Christ; Lo I am with you always, to the end of the world. Is God omniscient? so is Christ; Thou that knawest all things, knowe/t that 1 love thee, says Peter. Is God unchangeable? so is Christ; The same yesterday, to-day, and for ever. Is God eternal? so is Christ; Before Abraham was, I am: He is. the King eternal, immortal, the only wise God, He is God's Fellow in all these respecs. (3;) He is God's Fellow in point of wi and consent; what the Father wills, Eurit wills: hence it was his meet and drink to do his Father's will, who sent him; I delight to do thy will,, O my God. It is true, as man, he had a will distinct from his will as God, and so diverse from the Father's will; though yet this did act still in subordination to the will of od; hence when the bitter cup is put to his mouth, he prays, O my Father, if it be thy will let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine be done: yet, as God, his will is one, and the same with the ather's will. Fo rao nr (44.) He is God's Fellow in point of wor; John v. 17. My Father worketh hitherto, and I work. Christ's works are not only hke unto the Father's, but the _ fame in fubltance, as flowing from one and the fame essence and power; for, What things soever the Father dub, these also doth the Son likewise, John v. 19. He acts not as an instrument subordinate; but, as there is an unity in the work, so also in the manner of it; by the same power, wisdom, liberty, and ras hy + | > ony

„

2" *;* t you wot

*

SEM. I. against Gop's FELLow. 31 only the order of operation being observed: and we find all the works proper to God, ascribed to Christ; as creation, All things were made by him: Preservation, Upholding all things by the word of his power: Redemption; the donation of the Spirit; raising himself from the dead; the institution of ordinances and offices in his church; and the judging the world: in all these he is God's Fellow. x (5.) He is God's Fellow in point of honour and worip: all men are to honour the Son, even as they ho: nour the Father; they are to believe in him, Te believe in God, believe also in me, John xiv. 1.; they are to hope and trust in him, Ki the Son, le/t he be angry, and ye perish from the way. If once his wrath begin to burn, Hefed are all mo that trust in him. | (6.) He is God's Fellow in point of happiness and felicity, Rom. ix. 5. Of whom, concerning the flesh, Chrift came, who is over all, God blessed for ever, Amen. As he was blessed and happy from all eternity in his Father's bossom, being ever by him, and brougbt up with him, and being daily his delight; rejoicing s before bim; and rejoicing in the habitable parts of 1 earth, and his delights with the sons of men, Prov. vill. o, 31.: So he ever was, and will be, blessed with him, t is true, there was a time when the Son of God was humbled; when this God, blessed for ever, became a curse for us; but notwithstanding, his essential glory was never diminished; as God, he was as happy and blefled on the cross, and in the grave, as ever he

was.—Wel}, thus, as God, is he every way God's

Fellow. O! how fearfully was he humbled! God's Fellow, and yet a babe, a servant, a sufferer, a sacrifice to the awakened sword of justice. The Governor of all becomes a subje&: should an emperor become a fly, it would not be such a humiliation. O! how fadly was the world mistaken about Christ, that too him to be a base fellow, a pitiful fellow! but little di they know that he was God's Fellow. O! bow glorious is the love of Christ to sinners! God's Fellow receivtheir room.

2. Why he behoved to be God's Fellow chat was our Redeemer ? It was necessary that our Redeemer should be God's Fellow ;

(I.) In regard of merit: his obedience to the death

could not be sufficient to satisfy the law and the Lawger; to be a full ransom, and a full price of redemption, if it had not been truly and properly meritorious ; and this it could not be, if he had not been God's equal, as well as man, Our fins were an infinite evil, and God's justice required infinite satisfaction: now, there could be no satisfaction, of infinite value; but by a person of infinite value; and there is no such person, but God: and therefore our Redeemer must be God's equal, otherwise he could not

give the satisfaction required.

| MG. 2.) In regard of power. our Relermer mk be fac

an one as could go through all the difficulties

om lay in the way of redemption, triumphing over all opposition from God, men, and devils, from heaven, earth, and hell. The weakest of these were too | strong for human nature; therefore that our Redeemer might overcome death, bind the strong man, break down the gates of hell, cut in sunder the bar of sin, he must be God as well as man, even God's equal, God's fellow. And that he might be able for the application, as well as the impetration of man's

redemption, not only able 10 /ave to the utterme/t, all

them that come to God through him, but able to draw poor stubborn souls to himfclf, by his own power, and make them willing.

.) Our Redeemer must be God's Fellow in regard of the dignity of the work: his honour and dignity, in. being a Redeemer and Mediator between God and men, was too great for any; creature, supposing any creature had been able for it; this crown of glory was not fitting for any mere creature's head. An office

of dignity, on an unworthy person, 1s most unsuitable: this "Ignity was so great, that even Christ himself, though

though God's equal, might not take it upon him, till he was called to it of God, Heb. v. 4, 5

( (4) Our Redeemer must be God's Fellow, in regard of the covenant gf grace, which was the ground-work and foundation of all: since our Redeemer was to make a covenant with God for us, it was neceflary that he should be with God at the making of it, and know the depths of God's counsel in it, and perfectly know for whom he was to satisfy, and upon what condition. Now, this covenant being as antient as eternity ; and seeing God should have our Redeemer by him, to cenclude the covenant and bargain with him, who of all the creatures were capable of this? who, of all the creatures have known the mind of the Lord, and being his counsellor have taught him? God might have said to all the creatures, as to Job, in another case, Job xxxviii. 4. Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth ? Where were you when the plot of redemption was laid? when the names of my redeemed ones were put in the book of life? But our Redeemer was then by him, Prov. viii. 30. He becomes our everlasting Father; begetting us, with the Father, in the womb of eternal election.

(5-) Our Redeemer must be God's Fellow in regard of the place he was to have in the covenant, with resbect to God: who among all mere creatures was fit to have all power in heaven and in eartk committed to him? Power to bequeath such blessings as peace, pardon, reconciliation, justisication, and eternal life; power by his blood to confirm and establish all the promises of the covenant? Christ- Jesus did, throνẽd the eternal Spirit, (that is, his Godhead,) offer up himself, without spot to God; and then the apostle inters, for this cause, he is the Mediator of the new te/ta-+ ment : yea, Chrilt was to be-Surety of this testament ; Surety. for Gad to ut; to make out all the blessings

and promises of the covenant to us; and Surety for

us to God, to satisfy law and oe in our room; What creature was able to do this? or if any creature should VOL. I. S og es, TOS: | BY

be supposed to be able, was it fit that God should put

such a trust in any creature? No.

(.) Our Redeemer must be God's Fellow in regard

of the place he was to have with respect to us : our Redeemer mult be the object of our faith and love; what

creature in heaven, or in earth, could be a sufficient

prop and foundation for our faith? Had any mere

creature undertaken to be our Redeemer, we could

never fully have depended upon him, but would always been afraid he had miscarried : therefore it was

requisite to quiet our fears, that our Redeemer should

be God's Fellow; see Isa. xxxv. 3. He is God, therefore fear not: our hearts could never have been at full

rest otherwise. I remember, when Israel were going

through the wilderness, they were to meet with much

opposition ; God promises to send an angel with them ;

it is said, all the people mourned for these evil tidings,

that God himself would not go up; yea, | Moses himself was fearful of the mismanagement of a mere angel; therefore says Moses, If thou go not with us, carry us not up hence,” Exod. xxxili. 2, 3, 4, 15. And

again, ver. 12. Thou hast not let me know whom thou

wilt send. They thought his sending of an angel, was

as good as his sending none at all. Thus, you see,

people's fears would never be quieted by the government of an angel, though one of them was able to

_ destroy a whole host in one night: even so, our hearts

could never be at rest, though God sent an angel for

our | deliverance! therefore God sent his own Son,

his Fellow, that he might fully trust him, and depend

upon him; that we. place all our satisfaction in

him, as a full portion, fo as to seek no further. Thus

you see, he is God's Fellow; and why, as our Redeemer, he behoved to be so. ö. =

2aly, Consider the account we have of his Human

nature, The MAN that is my Fellow. Here I would

| shew you, 1. What kind of a man Christ became.

2. Why our Redeemer behoved to be a man. 1 oh

1. What kind of a man he become? Why, The

Word us made flesh, and dxvelt among us: Great -

rss.

the mystery of godliness, Cod manisested in the flesh: He took not on him the nature of angels, but the feed of Abraham. More particularly,

(J.) He was a poor man; a man very poor and mean in outward respects: poor in his birth; he- was not born of a queen, nor laid in a palace; but born of a poor virgin, and laid in a manger : He was poor in his life; several people ministred to him of their subs ance : yea, The foxes had holes, and the birds of the air had nests, but the fon of man had not where to lay his head. Though he was rich, yet for our sakes he became poor. Let not poor people quarrel at their lot : Christ, God's equal, was a poor man.

(2.) He was a distresed man; A man of firrous and acquainted with griefs a man of the fame a mities with us, except sinful ones: In all-things it behoved-him to be like unto. his brethren ; that be might be a merciful and faithful High-prieft, Heb. ii. 17.; and; He as in all points tempted like as 10e are, yet without fin, Heb. iii. 15. He was nf thirsty, weary, tempted, afflicted, and every way distressed. Let no distressed person think it — t they are to, nes God's Fellow was a distressed man.

) He was a true man; he bad a Gut body and A reasonable soul: his body was nailed to the tree; they pierced his hands and his feet: his foul was excceding sorrowful, even unto death. As man he went through all the ages of men; first, he was conceived; then, he was a babe; next, a youth; and at last, came to the perfect stature of a man. But,

(4.) He was a good man, an holy man; immaculate was the conception of the holy child Jesus: we come defiled into the world, but Christ brought no sin into the world with him; and all the devils could not make him sin; for, The prince of this world could

find nothing in him, either of original or actual fin:

He was made fin for us, | who knew ud sin; but wat holy, harmless, undefiledg and seperate from sinners. Never was there such an holy man upon carth: see Heb. v. 7. He was heard, in that he feared; or, he

—

eas heard for his piety and holiness. Since Adam fell, never was there a man but this, that was heard and accepted of God for his own piety and holiness.

(5.) He was a-20i/e man the wisest man that, ever was: Solomon was very wise, but behold, a wisey thanSolomon is here. He answered the learned doctors, to their amazement, when he was twelve years old: Yea, all that heard him were aftonithed at his

understanding and answers, Luke ii. 47. And sometimes asked questions to which no man was able to answer a word, nor durst ask him any more que/tions, Mat. xxii. 46. and no wonder, for he was the power of God, and the wislom'of God; and in him are hid all the treasures of wisdom and hnowledgs: and hence he revealed the glorious truths that were before concenl. ed. He was a wise man indeed. Vet,

(6.) He was a mortal man as we are, and he aul iy died as we must; he was put to a painful and shamedeath; and his cursed death, which yet we may

Call his blessed death, we are to commemorate this

day. This man fell a facrifice to the awakened sword

of infinite justice; the Shepherd was smitten and lain, for he was a mortal man; if it belawfu}to call him a + man,” as Josephus, a Jew; said. For,

In a word, he is a wonderful man; to all eternity his name thall be called wonderful, Ia. ix. 6. This wonderful man is our peace-maker with God; This man shall be the peace when the Assyrian cometh. into our land. This wonderful man is our only covert from the furious storm of divine wrath; A man shall be an gs oY from the Wer and a covert Vun tbe tem- 0 2. Why must our Redeemer de nf Joby, for the following reasons. ©

(1.) He must be a man in regard of the transation between the Father and the Son. Not only was God's truth engaged in the promise, that the seed of the woman should be fent; that to ws a child should be born,

to us à Son given, and that a virgin should bring forth

& sen, a call his name Immanuel, God with us, God in

SERM. I. against Cop's FELLoOW. 37 in our nature; and not only was God, in his infinite wisdom, resolved, 'in the weakness of our nature, to perfe& his own strength, and get the greater glory; and that as by one man's disobedience, many were sinners; fo by the obedience of one, many should be made righteous; but also, it being agreed between tlie Father and the Son, in the covenant of redemption, or grace, that the Son should offer up a sacrifice for us; it was also agreed, that there must be /amewhat to er, Heb. vin. 3. Somewhat of greater value than al} the world; for, nothing could be a sufficient facrifice for the expiation of fin. If Christ had not been man, he could have had nothing to offer up as a sacrifice to God: God himself provided a facrifice, as he did a ram in the room of Isaac: Sacrifice and offering thou cooulast not; a body hast thou prepared me. This body, this facrifice, was provided in the counsel of peace; and being thus provided, Christ comes chearfully to offer it, Lo, I cone, I delight 10 ds thy will, O my God. 1 an. Jene nite 1 H 2 * (2.) He must be a man in regard of ur; he would not have redeemed us, if according to the law, the right of redemption had not belonged to him as our kinsman, Lev. xxv. 25.3 and being man, he is fit to communicate to us the things of God in fuch a way, as we are capable to receive. If God should appear to us immediately, in his terrible glory, we would be afraid of him, as Israel were, and run away from him; and hide ourselves, as Adam did: yea, thus we have a merciful High- priest, that is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. As man he had experience of our afflictions: are we forrowful? fo was he; Sorrowful, even unto death: are we grieved? he was acquainted with grief: are we in poverty? so was he: are we smitten? so was he: are we deferted? fo was he: having a natural sibness to us, being bone of our bone, and flesh of our flesh. Ay os

(3.) He must be a man in regard of juice: justice required that the same nature that sinned should” be punished for sin, and make satisfaction for fin. God

said, The soul that sinneth shall die: now, die we must, either in our own persons, or in our Surety, in our own nature. If any angel had fulfilled the law, what had that been to us? it any angel had suffered God's wrath, what had that been to us, to man? Though God allowed the change, or commutation of persons, yet not the commutation-of natures; the same nature that sinned must suffer. - FR 9! P 582 (A.) He must be a man in respect of the devil; the devil conquered man, and man must conquer the devil: datan must be foiled by the same nature that was foiled him; The seed of the woman must. bruise the head of

e serpent. For this cause, therefore, the Son of God was manifested in our flesh, that he might destroy the zoorke of the devil. IJ men ors wt neem (5. He must be man in regard of in, which must

be cured by the contrary antidote. Our fin was pride, Gen: iii. 5.: being but men we desired to be gods; therefore the cure is by humility, wherefore God becomes man. Man broke the law, and man must keep the law: by our sin we transgressed the boundaries of God's law; Christ, therefore, is made of a woman, made under the law. Sin defaced the glory of God, therefore he who is the brightness of the Father's glory, and the express image of his person, becomes of no reputation; and comes in the form of a servant. Sin is a Deicide, striking at the being of God, seeking his life; therefore * that had a life equal with God's,

a