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XXVIII. The Mother of Moses, and the Reward of Faith

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ADDRESS.

THAT the present moment is, in the last degree, critical for the Church of God, none scarcely would be found to deny.

The desire, under divine grace, of those who have undertaken the present publication, is to meet the need of the Church in the position in which it is actually placed, by the communication of that truth (according to the measure in which it is given them), which the grace of God has furnished in the word for this as for every time of his Church's need. They are ready to receive any communication which may minister to this (provided it be according to truth and godliness), though it should not be precisely according to their own thoughts in every point, leaving each writer responsible for his particular view: yet they would carefully watch that nothing may escape them contrary to the faith of God's elect, or lowering to the standard of holiness and separation from the world, which becomes the Church of God-the Bride of the Lamb. That standard it is their desire to maintain in the fullest way in all earnestness of purpose and grace. They can only trust God to be kept and helped in this case. On the same ground, without sanctioning every thing in the original" Christian Witness"*, and satisfied that God has brought out many things in a clearer light on several important points, yet they cannot doubt that God did by it afford to his Church much true light from Himself, to help it on its way. That grace they would own, and thus far receive, as the proof of God's goodness

*The first edition only is here referred to.

to the Church. To own the goodness of God, is to receive the blessing of it. But they trust also to be enabled to afford a present testimony, according to the mind of God, towards his Church and Saints now. The rapidity of events, that is, of the development of principles-the principles of this world and of Satan-demand such a light and help to the Saints. Those who have under- . taken this publication count upon the goodness of God, however feeble they may be, to supply it. Whatever really assists in the intelligence of Scripture will surely minister to this, and will find a ready place in "The Present Testimony." Their confidence is in the Lord, that he will help them in thus ministering to the need of his Church. Upon his grace they cast themselves, recommending themselves and their labour to the love and prayers of their brethren.

The Editor (for the time being) adds a word :

He feels and desires to keep intact, his own individuality of responsibility to the Lord Jesus, as Head-and to Him alone. As thus placed, he has, through grace, found fellow-ship with His brethren, partakers of one Spirit, children of one Father; their servant and fellow-helper, therefore, he would be; yet always under Christ.

While availing himself of all brotherly council, as to the details of his duty, he does not feel free to alter anything whatsoever, in any paper, except by request of the writer. At the same time he will feel free to add a note, signed ED., upon his own sole responsibility. EDITOR.

As it does not seem to harmonise with the walk of faith to settle "how often such a Part or Number should appear""-let this be left where Faith casts all its

burdens.

THE PRESENT TESTIMONY,

ETC., ETC.

N. I.

ON THE HEAVENLY CALLING, AND THE

MYSTERY.

I. What is meant by "THE HEAVENLY CALLING"; and what is its practical bearing upon the WALK and WORSHIP of Believers in the Lord Jesus Christ? II. What is meant by "THE MYSTERY"; and what connexion is there between it and "THE HEAVENLY CALLING"?

THE knowledge of that infinite grace which has brought us, as redeemed sinners, nigh to God, through the precious blood of Christ, is the strongest appeal to our souls to render obedience unto Him who has shewn such wonderful love to us. And in proportion as our hearts are touched with a sense of this love, shall we love in return; “We love Him because he first loved us.'

Love will ever produce a fervent desire to please and meet the mind of the object of its affections.

"If ye love me, keep my commandments," said our blessed Lord. But however true and sincere the heart may be, yet if there be ignorance as to the commands of the Lord, there must be failure in obedience. Love is not sufficient to enable us to walk so as to glorify God. A true heart and right desires are not enough. A true heart is of vital importance; but an instructed mind as to what the will of God is, is needed to regulate and guide the warmest heart: the want of this often leaves the Lord's people open to much sorrow, when really seeking to serve Him.

Mary's heart was true and warm enough-but she passed through much sorrow, because she knew not

VOL. I. PT. I.

1

[Dec., 1848.

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