al in beauty. If the Bible, then, be true, a
redeemed universe is hastening upon us. Paradise created even cannot put
before us the glory of paradise restored. All the events which are
passing over us--even those which appear the most alarming--are under an
influence which will make them tributary to the final issue. "Blessed be
the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things, and
blessed be his glorious name for ever; and let the whole earth be filled
with his glory. Amen and Amen."

1. Let us learn a lesson of _veneration for the Scriptures_. Unless it
be the great doctrine of atonement, there is no truth to which the
Christian clings, assailed with greater bitterness in our days than the
plenary authority of the Bible. Moreover the low views on this question
which many professing Christians hold and teach, are most deplorable and
damaging. We expect opposition from the avowed adversaries of the Book;
but, the source of truth is now imperilled by indifference and treachery.
The whole volume has a divine origin. "God who at sundry times and in
divers manners spake in times past by the prophets hath in these last
days spoken to us by his Son."

2. A lesson of _love to the Saviour_. "He hath died" for us, "the just
for the unjust, that He might bring us to God." Do not forget your
personal interest in those sufferings to which the text refers. They are
in the strictest sense _vicarious_. He suffered not for his own sins,
but for yours. You may realise their saving efficacy, and be "made meet
for the inheritance of the saints in light." How great are his claims
upon our affection and service!

3. A lesson of _duty to the world_. The salvation of the whole race is
provided by "the sufferings;" and is included in "the glory." A
sanctified universe is to be the result of the Saviour's cross: and to a
large extent He has made the Churches responsible for the conversion of
the world. A weight of obligation rests upon each member which cannot be
put into language. The wailings of a dying race call loudly for our
zeal. The groans of the lost gather strength as they ascend the pit.
The voice of heaven, from angels, saints, and God, urge us onward in the
discharge of duty. Oh, the wreck is on the billow; hasten with the means
of safety. The plague-spot is in the camp; offer the incense of
atonement. And let all your efforts be put forth in faith, and under a
deep impression of the truth