PREFACE

Whatever things were written aforetime in the sacred volume were written for our instruction and admonition. The precepts it inculcates, and the diversified incidents it records—were evidently intended for our learning on the one hand, and for our warning on the other. In the biographies of Scripture this particularly appears. When the things which are pure, and lovely, and of good report—are exemplified in the character of an individual, the practical application is, "Go—and do likewise." While in reference to those of an opposite nature, such as the daring stubbornness of Pharaoh, the ostentatious zeal of Jehu, the worldly-mindedness of Demas, and many others, the exhortation is, "Go—and do otherwise." Almost in every page, both of the Old Testament and the New, are we reminded of what we are to seek, and of what we are to shun—of what we are to flee from, and what we are to follow after.

We have a perfect exhibition of the various graces after which we should aspire, in "the man Christ Jesus," who has left us an example that we should follow His steps. In thinking as He thought, feeling as He felt, and walking as He walked—the whole of experimental and practical religion is embodied. But as the spirit which was in Him was largely transfused into, and not undimly reflected by, many of His faithful servants—it follows that while we are treading in their footsteps, we are at the same time treading in His.

It is lamentable to think that of those who bear the name of Christ, there are so few who can truly say, "But we have the mind of Christ." The former, however, will be of no avail without the latter. And while a mere nominal profession is worthless to the individual himself—its effects cannot fail to be injurious upon others. Let the reader, then, allow the word of exhortation. To quote from a work recently published, "We beseech you to cultivate the temper that was in Jesus Christ. Is he like a follower of the Lamb, who is raging like a roaring lion? Is he like a pardoned criminal, who sits moping with a cloud upon his brow? Is he like an heir of heaven, who is vexed and fretted with some petty loss? Is he like one in whose bosom the Dove of heaven is nestling, who is full of all manner of malice and bitterness? A kind, compassionate, gentle, loving temper, presents one of the most winning features of religion; and by its silent and softening influence you will do more real service to Christianity, than by the loudest professions, or by the exhibition of a cold and heartless orthodoxy." "Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you." Eph_4:31-32.

May the perusal of the following earnest pages be blessed for the promotion of such a temper! May He, to whom the Spirit was not given by measure, impart to the reader out of His inexhaustible fullness, even grace for grace; and thus cause him to abound more and more in all those fruits of righteousness, which are for his own personal well being—for the honor of the Christian cause—and the praise and glory of God.