hortations, that they should embrace the gospel, and, by fleeing to Jesus for refuge from the wrath to come, thus save themselves from the destruction about to come that perverse and rebellious generation of Israel.

upon

By the grace of God, three thousand souls, on this occasion, gladly received the word, and were baptized, deeply convinced of their guilt and danger, and rejoicing to hear of free forgiveness, through the Saviour whom they had joined in crucifying. Repentance and remission of sins are still in our day preached to sinners in the Redeemer's name.

Though the conversion of the three thousand on this occasion was sudden, they daily continued to meet together in the courts of the temple for the worship of God, and in the houses of believers, and joined in the

sacred ordinances; so that even the Jews, who did not join them, esteemed and showed favour to them. Thus the Lord, from day to day, inclined the hearts of more among them to embrace the gospel and join the disciples of Jesus, not merely professors, but such as were actually brought into a state of acceptance with God, being made partakers of regenerating grace.

Let us study the pattern here exhibited, and pray for the pouring out of the Spirit, to produce the like blessed effect in us and our children; that we also may continue stedfast in the apostles' doctrine, and in fellowship with all true believers—that whatever we do, we may do all to the glory of God, in gladness and sincerity of heart.

193

MATTHEW VI. VII.

What pains did Jesus take, to teach The ignorant mats of mankind; Those truths which he ceas'd not to preach Were all for one purpose design'd.

CHRIST'S SERMON CONTINUED.

Next learn the rules of sacrifice and pray'r,
If to the temple thou with gifts repair;
Secret your alms and pious pray'rs, and known
To Him, who sees and will reward, alone.

OUR blessed Lord's excellent sermon we have further to consider, as there are yet several things to notice which he was graciously pleased to communicate in compassion for the infirmities and weakness of mankind. In Matthew, chapter vi, he warns them against hypocrisy, both in giving of alms and in prayer. The hypocrite is charitable only to be seen of men, and prays only to be heard and admired of his fellow-creatures; but Christ directed those who heard him, to be kind and liberal without public show, for God, who sees in secret, notices such conduct. Christ also told them, when they prayed, to shut themselves in their